By Maryann Hammers

 

So tour buses aren’t your thing. You crave action, excitement, and stimulation. (But you still want military discounts.)

 

OK. We hear you.

 

Motorcycle Rides in Ecuador

 

Not everyone wants to tour South America on a chopper. But if you’re the type who would, Ecuador is a great place to ride with its cheap gas, low traffic, and a diversity of terrain, climate, and cultures to make your ride even more interesting. Ecuador Freedom Bike Rental has a deal for you. “Military people often have a sense of adventure,” says owner Court Rand, “and we provide just that, plus a relaxing change of pace, with paved, unpaved, and off-road motorcycle tours.” The company offers motorcycle rentals (rent a bike, do your own thing); all-inclusive, multi-day, guided motorcycle tours led by local riders and all-inclusive, self-guided tours using a GPS. Whichever you choose, active and retired servicemembers get a 10-percent discount. From the U.S., call (603) 617-2499.

 

Sail the Greek Islands

 

Have you always wanted to learn to sail? It’s time to get your feet wet — by sailing around the Greek islands. Aegean Sailing School offers active and retired military a $200 per person discount on its “Learn to Sail” vacations. “The best way to see the Greek islands is by sea, and sailing refreshes your body, mind, and spirit as no other type of trip can,” says spokesperson Melody McKay Burton. “Our base is the pretty island of Aegina, and our sailing area is the Saronic and Argolic Gulfs, which have many delightful places to visit, good winds, and plenty of sunshine. And both our school principal and chief instructor were in the British Royal Navy for much of their lives, so they enjoy welcoming other servicemen and women on board.” Their offer is valid through the end of 2015. For more information, email info@aegeansailingschool.com or call 30-22970-32265. Mention code “SERVICE15” for your discount.

 

Drive Fast Cars

Photo courtesy of Richard Petty Driving Experience.

 

 

Richard Petty Driving Experience lets you put your hands are on the wheel and foot on the gas while driving 600 horses. The experience begins with a 45-minute instructional class, including entry and exit, shifting pattern, safety devices, and more. Prices start at $449, but military members and retired veterans get a “Two-for-One” special. That means when you purchase one eight-lap Rookie Experience, you get a second one free (for yourself or your guest). Call (800) 237-3889 for information. Tracks are located at these locations:

 

• Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Daytona International Speedway
• Michigan International Speedway
• Bristol Motor Speedway
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway
• New Hampshire Motor Speedway
• Charlotte Motor Speedway
• Kansas Speedway
• Orlando (Walt Disney World Speedway)
• Chicagoland Speedway
• Kentucky Speedway
• Richmond International Raceway
• Darlington Raceway
• Las Vegas Motor Speedway
• Texas Motor Speedway

 

Fly High

 

Are you afraid of heights? Steer clear of the High Roller at the Linq, a shopping/entertainment area in Las Vegas (across from Caesars Palace). This is not your father’s Ferris wheel! At 550 feet, with more than 2,000 LED lights in changing colors and patterns, this is the world’s tallest observation wheel (107 feet taller than the London Eye). Each of its 28 glass-walled, sphere-shaped cabins accommodates up to 40 people. Servicemembers (active and retired) get a $5 discount off the regular $24.95 price (so you pay $19.95). Get more information or call (702) 322-0560.

 

Read Vicariously

 

If you’re the type who lives adventures vicariously — through the eyes of the hero or heroine in your favorite literary classic — here’s an innovative vacation idea (if you don’t mind doing a little reading homework before the trip). Curious Oyster Seminars takes small groups to the cities and cultures that inspired the authors of the some of the world’s best books. “More rigorous than a book club and more intellectual than a luxury vacation, we combine the best of both: great books, tours, food, and wine,” says program director Melissa M. Carl, former faculty member at the American University of Iraq – Sulaimani. In 2015, seminars will take groups to Orlando to read Jorge Luis Borges, to the South Pacific for a seminar on Melville’s maritime novellas, and to Macedonia for a seminar on Plutarch. Rafting Utah’s Green River is part of a seminar on Edward Abbey’s wilderness philosophy. Trips are all-inclusive except for airfare, and servicemembers get a 10-percent discount. (At this writing, 2015 seminar prices have not yet been set, but you can find more information on the website.) “I was in Iraq while the American troops were on the ground in 2009, and I remain grateful everyday for their sacrifice,” Carl adds. For information, call (505) 670-3782.