This year's National Geographic Adventurer of the Year award goes to a man who risked his life several times to save others. Pemba Gyalje Sherpa was part of the Norit K2 team on K2 August 1, when a massive serac fell off a glacier and tumbled through a section of the Cesan climbing route called the Bottleneck, stranding 17 climbers above 27,000 feet. Pembra, who had climbed Mount Everest seven times, chose to descend the Bottleneck alone, without oxygen, following the single safety left instead of staying in the danger zone. Over the next two days, he climbed back up and saved two of his teammates. For the full story of Pembra Gyalje Sherpa's heroism and rescue of his friends - 11 other climbers died - read The savior and the storm on K2, written by Christian DeBenedetti.

To set yourself in the middle of a climb on Mount Everest click on Watch Mount Everest Through Sherpa's Cams

If you're interested in learning how to climb click on Enjoy Natural Highs

The Specialty Travel Agents Association has just announced that ecotourism is one of its picks for the best types of travel to explore in 2009. This group of travel agents, who have extensive hands-on experience in particular areas of types of travel and specific destinations worldwide, named 10 destinations and types of travel: Culinary, Dominican Republic, Ecotourism, Galapagos Islands, Maldives, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal, South Africa and Thailand.

Check out this list of 10 Natural and Wildlife Adventure Trips , which will take you to many of the countries listed above.

Here's where to find tips for planning an ecotourism trips

So you haven't seen daylight in Las Vegas, between hours at a gaming table, watching Cirque de Soleil's LOVE and a few hours of sleep. When you're ready to re-acquaint yourself with the real world trying hiking or climbing in scenic Red Rock Canyon. (The hiking trails and climbing areas can be reached via the 13-mile scenic drive route -- for those who would rather just look.) Here are some photos of the dramatic scenery in Nevada's Red Rock Canyon. a mere 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip.

I've listed a bunch of my favorites, based on feedback from many travelers who enjoy exploring the world. Trips offered by these adventure travel companies will take you just about anywhere in the world, on bare-bones to luxe trips. All offer special experiences that can range from dining and overnighting in locals' homes in Asia to mountain biking in Peru or private tours of ancient ruins. Check out this list of adventure travel companies and let me know who you think I'm missing.