How to Plan Your First Equestrian Vacation
An EquestrianMag Exclusive Article
As the summer vacations arrive, you may find yourself in a fix thinking how to make the most of it. You may have had enough of traveling and beach vacations and may have lazed around enough during the summers earlier. Now you would like to have some fun and frolic, but not in an ordinary way. In that case, an equestrian vacation may be the right choice for you. It will give you great fun, excitement and a lot to learn.
A horse ride is ideal for those who find comfort at the lap of nature. You can feel nature at its purity as you saddle up and stride along the countryside at a leisurely pace.
You need a proper plan before going out on an equestrian vacation, more so if it is your first such excursion. It is normal to have some worries when you are going on your first equestrian vacation. However, there is nothing much that you need to fear. The key is to make sure that you find out the right place with fit horses, well-maintained tack and good instructors.
A good way to search a fine equestrian vacation is to surf the Internet. Many sites give you valuable information on such vacations. However, it is advisable to limit your site selection to the top 50. Then you should inquire and ask questions to find out whether the place is right for you.
About Their Experience
Choose an agency that has good experience in equestrian vacations. Ask how long they have been in business. Also, ask them for references. You can get information from people who had availed their services. To verify the credentials of foreign stables, you can approach the national equestrian federations and associations. Try to get a written satisfaction guarantee. A good agency will not hesitate to give you one. Do not forget to check the legal status of the agency. Ask whether they have a state license and a permit for riding. Some agencies have some age restrictions. Inquire about such restrictions well in advance. It is also necessary to check whether you meet their health requirements. The health of their horses also matter a lot. Ask if the horses had any bout of contagious illness.
Rates and Schedule
Gather all the information about the expenses. Ask how much you will have to pay in advance to reserve your equestrian vacations. Try to find out if there is any hidden cost besides what the agency is showing to you. Ask about the company’s policies regarding payment, deposit, refund and cancellation. Check what types of payments they accept. Some agencies offer discounts for children, seniors, groups and non-riders. Discounts are also available during off-season dates. You can take benefit of such discounts.
Accommodations and Other Services
To enjoy the riding, you also need to have a comfortable stay during your equestrian vacation. Inquire about the lodging facilities they offer. Their meal plan is one important factor you need to consider. Make sure that they offer adequate medical facilities. Look for a place where emergency medical services are easily available. Some companies offer good non-riding activities during equestrian vacations. That adds more to the excitement and fun.
About the Ride
It is necessary for a first timer to have adequate knowledge of the riding before starting the outing. Ask for their usual ride itinerary. They may be having some standard riding pace. Check how many hours of riding you will need to do per day. Knowing condition of the terrain and the trail is very crucial for you. You will need to keep an eye on the weather as well. Depending on the types of challenges involved in the ride, you will need different types of equipment. So, ask them what types of equipment you will need and where you can buy them. Sometimes, they may provide you the necessary tools. Do not forget to make inquiries whether you can ride the trails yourself or you will need assistance from a trailer.
Mental Preparation
You need adequate mental preparation before setting out on your first equestrian vacation. Being a beginner, you should not overestimate your skills and abilities. However, that does not mean that you should put on a negative temperament. It is necessary to feel confident and stay positive.
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