 Camping 101 - The Best and Worst Locations in Neopia by vernalagnia
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Summertime proves to be a popular time for camping. The warm nights and abundant outdoor activities will leave your Pet with endless opportunities to commune with nature. As outdoor enthusiasts, we want to encourage Neopians to spend more time outdoors and have been compiling a list of the best areas to camp, what areas to avoid, and what experience is right for me and my Pet. Lamachus is here to answer. After years of traveling both across Neopia and intergalactic space, he believes he has the credentials to accurately judge the most suitable spots. 1. Neopia Central – Of course, Neopia Central has some of the best camping spots. You can rest assured you will have ample access to facilities while enjoying the great outdoors. The downsides? If you enjoy star gazing, you may experience light pollution due to the proximity to the city. The location can often be crowded as well. Some people enjoy the company of strangers. Others would prefer something a bit more exclusive. You can come to your own conclusion about whether Neopia Central is the ideal camping location for you. 2. Roo Island – Could you imagine a happier place than Roo Island? The residents are welcoming and there is plenty of entertainment. Your Neopets can find plenty to do in such a lovely place. The reported sights of Count Von Roo can be disturbing, but even still, Lamachus can’t help but recommend staying here. He had a fantastic time on his trip here. 3. Kiko Lake – If you like swimming, Kiko Lake might be the choice for you. The glass bottom boat tours and delicious treats are sure to impress your Neopet. Lamachus found the location decent, but he did not care for being coerced into donating to Kiko Lake’s Altador Cup team while camping here. If you decide to visit this area, you should keep this in mind. 4. Faerieland – This location has ample beautiful scenery, friendly faeries, and great food. There isn’t much else your Pet could desire or demand. Camping here is popular and there are plenty of designated spots to do so. The only glaring issue Lamachus could find is the somewhat capricious demands of the faeries who call this land home. There’s nothing quite like being on a hike and being interrupted to find a pair of Torn Pink Gym Socks! Maybe your Pet likes the challenge. Lamachus thinks it can be disruptive and warns introverted Neopets to reconsider this location. Extroverts will love this area. 5. Haunted Woods – This location may seem too scary at first, but this can be part of the appeal and draw for many. Can you imagine telling ghost stories around the fire in such a location? It would be perfect. If your Neopet is brave and loves spooky adventures, the vibes are immaculate. The food here can be questionable so Lamachus advises packing your own treats. You can venture to the Deserted Fairground to seek additional entertainment. Neovia can be an excellent choice as well if your Pets prefer a location a bit more calm. 6. Brightvale – Next on our list is Brightvale, the location has ample nice camping spots, natural beauty, wildlife, and tasty fruits. Lamachus did not find many negatives on his trip to Brightvale, but he warns that Neopians who are less studious may find the residents daunting. Their vocabulary struck him as somewhat pretentious. The focus on knowledge was evident each time they spoke. Lamachus recommends bringing your thesaurus just in case you cross paths with King Hagan. 7. Meridell – Meridell may be known for having bland food, but the location itself has a lot of potential. You can stroll to Illusen’s glade or go berry picking in Meri Acres Farm. There’s plenty of entertainment to be had in the form of Round Table Poker, weighing the marrow, or even counting potatoes. Lamachus advises Neopets to avoid King Skarrl – unless you want to deal with his grumpy disposition. 8. Lost Desert – You will need proper equipment if you try to tackle the Lost Desert for camping. The days can be scorching hot and the nights can be freezing cold. With such extreme temperature differences, Lamachus advises leaving this location to seasoned campers and explorers. However, he knows the ancient ruins here are still a draw to many, so he instructs you to proceed with caution if you choose this as your next destination. 9. Krawk Island – If you visit Krawk Island, you will need plenty of dubloons for your stay. The food and location are otherwise appealing. You may want to avoid Smuggler’s Cove and be mindful of your surroundings. Pirates can be untrustworthy and the area is known for crime. Lamachus would give a pass on staying here long-term. 10. Mystery Island – The beach alone attracts thousands of visitors a year. This site can often be crowded, but the food is great. The natural wonders and amazing photographs you can take here are sure to make all your friends jealous. Lamachus warns you to take caution in interacting with natives. Some can be hostile and there have been reports of alleged cannibals. Lamachus did not have any problems, but your own personal safety must come first. You are better off sticking to designated camping spots instead of picking some secluded place in the wild. 11. Maraqua – This area is really only suited for aquatic Pets. If your Neopet cannot swim well or breathe underwater, Lamachus tells you to pass. If you choose to come regardless, you and your Pets will need special equipment to reach this remote location. Kelp tends to be one of the main attractions, and you will find the food exquisite, albeit pricey. Even still, you must not forget your reservation. The location is popular, and you wouldn't want to risk being denied service. Lamachus notes the logistics of camping here will be too difficult for many. This would not be one of his recommendations for beginners. 12. Tyrannian – This spot can be quite educational and fun for those who enjoy dinosaurs. There are a lot of great areas to explore. Unfortunately, the natives can be difficult for modern Neopets to understand, which can be a bit of a setback. Even still, the entertainment, hiking locations, and food cannot be understated. When traveling to this location, the hostile wildlife requires you to proceed with extra caution. You must be mindful of where you choose to camp and don't leave any food out overnight. This will help decrease your risk of possible dangerous encounters. 13. Terror Mountain – The bitter cold means most won’t find this a comfortable stay. Camping here will not be easy, but many still travel to this location each year. The most popular time to travel to Terror Mountain is during the Advent Calendar. You will find the campsites much more crowded around that time of year. If you ask nicely, the locals may teach you how to construct an igloo, which will be much more appropriate, and warmer, than a standard tent. Those who enjoy snow and winter sports will be at home in Terror Mountain. 14. Moltara – This area can be challenging for most, but spelunking in the caves is the true appeal. You need to be prepared if you choose to stay here. Many Neopians find the location too warm for comfort, and the food has often been described as indigestible. Lamachus would not recommend this location unless you have a love of caves, and he reminds you to pack your own food unless you want to potentially risk going hungry. 15. Lutari Island – No one has been able to camp here for years because of the constant storm surrounding the island. At one time, the location was known for its serenity and wonderful natural beauty, but it is now sadly off limits due to the danger of traveling here. Unless the situation changes or improves, no one will be able to camp here in the foreseeable future. 16. Altador – If you love history and tasty food, Altador has plenty to offer in both categories. The travel to get here may take you some time by boat, but Lamachus tells you with confidence it is worth the journey. The area has so much to offer and many nice campgrounds you can use while staying here. You can rent boats and hike on many different trails. 17. Shenkuu – The complex terrain in this location can be steep and unforgiving. At such a height above sea level, you need to be in good physical fitness to truly enjoy your stay here. There are many scenic views here to take photos, and the exotic food will broaden your horizons. The locals are reserved but helpful. Lamachus enjoyed his stay here. 18. Virtupets Space Station – There isn’t any location to really camp here, but there are rooms to rent if you want to take a trip here anyhow. The cafeteria food leaves something to be desired, and traveling to this location can be very difficult. Lamachus would not recommend this area for camping, but you might find it an educational vacation otherwise. 19. Kreludor – You will need special permission to camp here. Without training and a specialized suit, it would be impossible to stay at this location. Lamachus did it once, and it was very difficult. Sleeping on the moon may seem fun, but the risks and effort overshadow everything else. Lamachus says to avoid. Lamachus hopes his opinions and knowledge on where to camp have been both educational and helpful. He hopes you remember his advice the next time you are planning an outdoor centric vacation. Camping should be a fun and safe experience for all. He tries to not take unnecessary risks when he travels and hopes you will do the same. Farewell for now!
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