I don't know about you, but I'm not the kind of person who goes on vacation just to lie on the beach somewhere. I would much rather spend my time doing something new and exciting. That's why my recent vacations have included off-road motorcycling, snowmobiling, bungee jumping, and white water rafting. Out of all of those trips, I would have to say that I enjoyed white water rafting the most.

Although the enthusiasm was in abundance, I really did not have a clue as to how to go about organizing such an excursion for myself. I also had to find out which months were most suited for this sport, the rivers which were safe for white water rafting, and how to go about getting a good guide for myself. The Internet proved to be my rescuer since it was filled with information about this most popular vacation sport. Additionally, I could tap expert resources for advice about my planned vacation. Let me tell you all about my vacation.

The US has a lot to offer for white water rafting. Rivers in the Western, Eastern and Central areas were all suitable for this sport. While the Western sector had the Colorado river and the Snake river, the Central and Eastern parts had rivers in West Virginia, North and South Carolina, Maine, Tennessee and New York. This removed any notions that I had earlier about suitable rivers being available only in the Western part of the country! This knowledge also gave me the thrill of knowing that I could begin my journey at one river and end it at another. The sport and sightseeing--both could be combined for a magnificent vacation!

As for the months most suited for the trip, there were various factors that would decide the dates for me. Where was it that I wanted to go, the type of climatic conditions of that particular place, and my skills with white water rafting (amateur or expert?). It was a rule that novices should go when water conditions are calm, whereas experts could attempt high-water conditions. The season involving white water rafting lies between May and September.

Last on the list was guides. The company supplying guides had to be noted with care, for a guide could ensure an enjoyable trip or an eminently forgetable one! The three things to be considered while choosing a guide are--how dependable has the past track record of the company been, how much do they care about satisfying customers and how much do they care about safety? Since the Internet lists out the names of guide companies, it is possible to make a comparison then and there of all the outfitters, and make your choice. So take your time and know everything about the selected outfitters before deciding finally.

The experience was groovy and will remain in my memories forever! I am waiting to go back! How would you like to make your trip memorable too?