Geocaching...whats that all about?

My blog has focused on the MAKE and SEW but not much DO, in light of this I thought I'd share with you a great pursuit that is fun to do either on your own or with friends and family.  It's a treasure hunt activity called Geocaching.

I first discovered Geocaching through a colleague at work and was immediately fascinated.  My first cache was hidden behind the noticeboard of a church I drive past every day, it was a small film canister that contained a log book that I had to sign/date and then log on the Geocaching website (this can be done through the website or app if you decide to buy it).  Since then I have found 13 caches most have been small boxes that contain little treasures such as key rings, erasers, glitter pens, small toys etc, my children absolutely love it.  It's worldwide, my brother lives in Canberra Australia and he has loads hidden near him.  If you have a rainy day on holiday, wrap the kids up warm and go Geocaching for free.

Here are the basics:

• Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunt that is WORLDWIDE.
• Once you've bought the app it's free (the app is a one off fee of £6.99).
• Players try to find hidden containers called caches, these can be various shapes and sizes and contain different things...more about cache types can be found on the website.
• You will need either a smart phone or GPS device to join in.
• You log your efforts and follow other Geocachers.
• Non Geocachers are called Muggles.  When trying to find a cache keep a look out for Muggles, try to be a surreptitious as possible in order to keep the cache from being discovered.
• You can also create your own caches, they must be hidden in an interesting location that makes the effort to find it worth while, a place of historical interest, a wonderful view or near a good pub!
• Some caches are individual finds, others link together and are part of a bigger treasure hunt.
• When you find a chache with treasure, if you take something you must replace it with another item that is worth the same or more than what you have taken.  Treasure can vary, some is valuable.
• Some caches contain trackables that have a quest attached to them such as to get from Lands End to John O'Groats, to visit evry city in Europe or to travel around the world.
• Geocaching promotes a cleaner environment, if you see rubbish on your quest pick it up and put in it the bin!

For a full guide to the game click on the link below.

Geocaching a guide to the game.

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