Top 5 Attractions In Sri Lanka

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Sri Lanka is a tropical island famous for its pristine beaches, exotic wildlife and cuisine, ancient monuments, vibrant culture and not forgetting warm and hospitable people who make visiting this paradise isle a truly unforgettable holiday experience! While the island may be relatively small in size it is home to a diverse array of attractions and places of interest that offer something for young and old alike. Those planning a holiday here have much to see and do and the following are among the top attractions in Sri Lanka.

One of the main draws is undoubtedly the island’s sundrenched beaches which offer an idyllic coastal getaway in which to soak up the sun, laze in the sand and enjoy exciting water sports in the surf! While Sri Lanka’s south coast and such areas as Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Galle are among the hotspots when it comes to popular seaside destinations, west coast areas such as Negombo and Wadduwa also offer soft golden sand and family friendly water sports a plenty.

Animal safaris, elephant and leopard safaris in particular, are also a very popular attraction for those visiting the country. The Yala National Park is a well known animal sanctuary that is of particular interest for those interested in experiencing a leopard safari and depending on the time of year and a bit of luck, one can witness and photograph these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Not to be missed is a visit to the Minneriya National Wildlife Park where one can embark on an elephant safari and view the world famous ‘Gathering’; a spectacular natural event where hundreds of elephants gather together near the Minneriya Water Tank.

Those wanting a more up close and personal view of elephants can visit another extremely popular attraction known as the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage. Home to orphaned elephants, this unique safe haven lets visitors get a first hand view of these lovable giants being fed and bathed. Since the orphanage also engages in breeding activities, one can also witness baby elephants with their mothers and at play!

Travellers looking to soak up some culture can head to the country’s hill capital Kandy where one can visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This sacred Buddhist temple which is known for its golden canopy is located in the city centre itself and houses what is believed to be the scared tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Another cultural marvel worth visiting is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this magnificent rock fortress is home to ancient frescoes and lets one also get a view of a fascinating architectural marvel that has been called the eighth wonder of the world.

Travellers planning Sri Lanka tours can visit these and countless other island attractions when exploring this tropical paradise. Those looking to truly enjoy their Sri Lanka travels and enjoy authentic experiences can make use of the services offered by Jetwing Travels.

Underwater Sightseeing

Thailand is famous for its gorgeous beaches, wild nightlife and amazing shopping opportunities, and has long been a prime holiday spot. The tourist season reaches its peak between November and February, which also happens to be the country’s ‘cool’ season. However, whether one visits Thailand during the height of the tourist season or during the somewhat quieter off-season, there is always plenty to do. Beaches are among the favourite places in the nation. The ribbons of white sand that separate the lush palm trees from the mesmerising blue waters are accessible throughout the year. So are a myriad of activities associated with the beaches. One will be able to find all the favourites such as wind surfing, jet skiing, para gliding, and of course, scuba diving.

The waters off the coast of Thailand are known for their marine diversity, and the country boasts numerous amazing diving spots. The Andaman Sea is warm and hospitable, and the sheer variety of aquatic fauna it contains is dizzying. There are a number of places that offer facilities for scuba diving, but choose a place that rents out underwater cameras. Renting a camera does add to the cost of the dive, but it is definitely worth it considering the kaleidoscope of life beneath the shimmering waters.

The waters surrounding Thailand feature extensive coral reefs, and they come in a variety of shapes and colours, and act as homes for many sea creatures. Of course, some types of fish are more intriguing than others. The rhinopia is a brightly coloured angler fish. The strange looking creature is quite hard to spot, which makes sighting it all the more rewarding. Octopodes are a bit more common. In fact, the playful eight legged creatures have been known to snatch cameras off unsuspecting divers. Lucky divers may also get the opportunity to see barracuda, jellyfish, and even the largest fish of all, the whale shark.

While the beaches of Samui and Phuket are obvious options, the lesser developed island of Hua Hin is a better choice. Less crowded, quieter and more peaceful, it is the ideal place for rest and relaxation. One can also find plenty of Hua Hin luxury hotels that are designed to pamper their guests, the Anantara Hua Hin, Thailand being one of them. This gem among Hua Hin hotels has a delightful spa which is sure to help guests de-stress.

Adventure Sports in Kuta


Renowned for its spectacular sunsets, Kuta in Bali is a nightlife hub as well as a mecca for shopping, with its clusters of boutiques, shops and galleries. Stretching as far north as the eyes can see, Kuta’s pristine beach is often crowded with various tourists. The waves kissing the shores of this beach are ideal for surfing. This thrilling adventure sport draws enthusiasts from around the globe. Experienced surfers will enjoy the surf at Canggu, which is between Tanah Lot and Kuta. Lying out to the Sea from the Kuta Beach, Kuta Reef also presents excellent conditions for surfing. Visitors in the area can also indulge in water sports such as snorkelling and diving. When choosing a Bangkok hotel, an option to consider is Anantara Bangkok Sathorn. A standout among luxury hotels Bangkok, it is located within easy access of various shopping and business hubs.

Power and Beauty

Pitting man and machine against the sea is what power boat racing is all about and the sport in Abu Dhabi is no exception!

It all started in 1992 when boats from the Emirates entered Class I power boat racing and finished in first and second places in the final rounds of the competition. In 1993 the International Marine Sports Club in Abu Dhabi was set up and helped to take power boat racing in the region to new heights. Its involvement in providing facilities, organizing events, developing athletes in marine sports and facilitating their participation in international events has helped enormously to garner enthusiasm and develop the sport in Abu Dhabi.

In fact Abu Dhabi was the first country in the Middle East to host a UIM Formula One Power Boat Race. During this time Abu Dhabi itself developed ‘Team Abu Dhabi’ its own special team that is finishing in top positions in international power boat events around the world and winning accolades. This has helped to gain recognition for the sport in Abu Dhabi along with garnering home support and enthusiasm.

Power boat racing now attracts large crowds anxious to witness this thrill a minute spectacle and enjoy every heart stopping moment. The whole city gears itself up for the event taking on a festive air. The entertainment scene goes into high gear with international performers giving live concerts, extravagant fireworks displays lighting up the sky in the evenings and hosts of participants and fans crowding all venues.

While power boat racing is exciting in itself, the machines are also getting attention with their aerospace industry inspired boat, engine and transmission designs and the use of new materials such as Fibre Reinforced Polymer with advanced composites such as Kevlar and carbon fibre. Today’s state of the art boats featuring a host of on board innovations draw as many admirers as the sportsmen. However, the challenge of the ocean remains unchanged and still man and machine are pitted against a formidable opponent!

Stretched among the undulating desert sands, merging with the landscape, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers its guests a gorgeous selection of spacious rooms, suites and villas with Arabian inspired décor done up in a subtle colour palette in keeping with its location. One of the best Abu Dhabi hotels, it provides a range excellent guest services encompassing tasteful dining options, luxurious spa treatments and access to state of the art in-house leisure facilities and special outdoor activities only possible in its very special location in the Liwa Desert. With the comfort and wellbeing of guests uppermost in its consideration that makes for a very special holiday experience, it is not hard to see why this is one of the premier Abu Dhabi luxury hotels in the region.

Tiger World

With a view of conserving tigers, an endangered species, the Tiger World was established with the intention of educating and inspiring people for conservation of natural treasures.  Tragically, tigers have made their appearance in the endangered species list as early as in 1978. The number of 100,000 in the region of Asia at the turn of the century has drastically come down by as much as 98%.

The Tiger world is a place that provides a safe environment for these endangered animals as well as a safe set up for humans to observe these animals. The set up in countries such as Africa is slightly different as the safety factor of the public is quite unsatisfactory.

Tiger world can be found a mere 4km from 1-85 highway 152 in Rockwell, NC.  The venue is an area that simulates a wilderness with grassy paths and walkways for visitors to stroll around. Ideal for school children, a family outing or for a church group, this is one place that allows you very close contact with the tigers as well as lions.  There will always be an animal handler at hand to put an end to your queries and enlighten you about their habitats, feeding style or preferences.

During the week and weekdays, there are slightly different schedules offering a variety of activities.  On certain days, a visitor can get a very up close encounter with the tigers as well as lions that will chase away your fear of these animals. The carnivore feeding safari allows visitors to view these creatures enjoying their meal of raw meat followed by an eloquent explanation about their behavioural traits. The night safari is yet another exciting way to discover the nocturnal behaviour of these animals where visitors can camp at a safe environment and watch the monkeys or the tiger cubs. This include the twilight tour and the ‘behind the scenes tour’.

Stay over at a Phuket resort after visiting these attractions and the fatigue of all the safaris will simply disappear.  At Anantara Phuket, Thailand, a cluster of pool villas and lagoon villas promises luxurious living spaces inspired by traditional Thai architecture. Lounge on a spacious sun deck or take a dip in your own private pool. If you need more modern conveniences, there is LCD TV with surround sounds, complimentary Wifi and Ipod dock  as well as a digital safe and a fully stocked mini bar. These Phuket villas are a fabulous way to enjoy traditional Thailand hospitality with international standards of luxury and comforts.

Snorkel Safari

Diving and snorkelling are experiences deemed as extraordinary and unforgettable. The awe inspiring experience of interacting with mesmerizing marine life and exploring sunken wrecks from a bygone era is invaluable. A snorkel safari in Maldives will let you enjoy all this and more. A great activity to bond with family members and make new friends, snorkelling safaris in Maldives are a must try for travellers visiting these paradisiacal islands. Those in search of Maldives bungalows will be delighted to find Anantara Veli, Maldives. Offering leisure facilities with an array of water sports, the Maldives resort ensures a remarkable holiday experience.

Unhampered Wilderness

Enrich your holiday experience by viewing one of the planet’s most endangered species in its natural habitat. Dugongs, locally known as ‘Plapayoon’, the only strictly herbivorous marine mammals in the world, have been living close to humans along the coastal areas of Phang Nga, Krabi, Phuket, Trang and Satun provinces in Thailand. Dugongs and their young have been spotted particularly in the unspoilt area around Libong Island off the coast of Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang Province in increasing numbers. Take a wildlife spotting trip to view these tame creatures. Snorkel and dive in the calm clear waters off Trang to get acquainted with these marine mammals and watch them feasting on the sea grass in shallow waters. Contribute to sustainable tourism by learning how to preserve their habitats and enhance their numbers.

These creatures are found in coastal areas with large sea grass beds. The coastline of the Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang Province has 8 kinds of sea grass in a 7 km long belt that supports a fairly large community of dugongs.

Acknowledging the importance of a well managed conservation program, the Dugong Conservation Project implemented by the Marine and Coastal Resources Department has set guidelines for visitors to follow as they view these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. There are also guidelines for locals and fishermen to follow as it is in their best interest to maintain the bio diversity of the area and to promote the undisturbed ecology around Trang as a tourist attraction that will translate into economic gains.

Local people are encouraged to work towards preserving these habitats by not polluting the water, conserving coastal eco systems and protecting the dugong itself by not consuming them and by avoiding destructive fishing practices.

In the midst of an unspoilt natural environment with pristine coastal areas, tropical rainforests and mangrove forests, Anantara Si Kao, Thailand offers its guests comfortable accommodation and a range of excellent facilities and services. These include exotic cuisines, relaxing spa treatments, a host of exciting leisure options and unique opportunities to experience the extraordinary biodiversity around this Krabi resort hotel. One of the most luxurious Krabi luxury resorts, it provides guests with rich experiences, deluxe facilities and a special setting to make their holiday a truly memorable one.