Palm Sugar Village

Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia, sharing borders with Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. The country is known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine and terrific attractions. Different parts of the country are famous for different things. Tourists who want to enjoy the best beaches Thailand has to offer can head over to Phuket or Krabi; those who want to enjoy the nation’s rich history can visit Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi; as for those who want to enjoy Thailand’s divine shopping opportunities, excellent restaurants and vibrant nightlife, the best place to go is Bangkok.

Not only is Bangkok Thailand’s capital, it is also its biggest city. Although it is known for its traffic clogged streets and a profusion of nightclubs, Bangkok actually has a lot more to offer. Famous tourist attractions in Bangkok include the Wat Arun, the Wat Pho- which is home to the world’s largest statue of a reclining Buddha, the Grand Palace- where one can see the famous Emerald Buddha, the Wat Ratchanaddaram, and the Dusit Palace- built by King Rama V.

The Palm Sugar Village is technically not a Bangkok tourist attraction as it is located outside the city. However, tourists who have visited all the sights within the city that interests them should consider taking a short day trip to the Palm Sugar Village. As the village is located on the way to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one can visit both places at once. At the village tourists can see how sugar is made from the buds of coconut flowers and even take part themselves. It is a fun and interesting experience and should not be missed when visiting the city.

Bangkok’s traffic blocked streets are notorious and the best way to avoid them is by using the Metro or the BTS Skytrain. Together they greatly ease the hassles of travelling in the city. Tourists should also try to get accommodation in a central area so that navigation is not too much of a difficulty. The Metropolitan Bangkok is a luxury Bangkok hotel that enjoys a convenient location and is a great place to stay at. This Bangkok luxury hotel is found next to the city’s most popular leisure and shopping centres and offers a tranquil refuge from the bustling city.

Visit the Ampawa Floating Market for Retail Therapy, Leisure and Cultural Insight

Traditionally, the Thai mode of trading was dominated by many innovative methods, trade by way of floating markets which utilized the multitude of waterways in the city, were simply one of them. In modern day Thailand, these floating markets still exist, albeit less exorbitant and diverse, and at most, preserved as a tourist attraction. Nevertheless, taking a ride in a long tail boat and visiting these floating markets are truly an experience in itself for they still are unique in nature and the endless string of commentary on the history of the area and the ways of life of the people by the boat’s captain truly contribute to a wholesome experience.
The Ampawa Floating Market too is one such market which is unique in itself. It is more active and livelier than most other markets and one can find vendors selling a myriad of goods ranging from edible delights to souvenirs. One thing that is notable is that most of the houses along the canal are also makeshift shops and restaurants and edible homemade pastries and other goodies can be found in abundance.
This floating market belongs to the increasingly rare category of attractions which double as both an active market as well as a tourist attraction. Due to the double role played by the houses that are found alongside the canal, one can even see traditionally attired farmers selling their wares as well. Therefore, a ride to this Market is never wasted for even if you do not buy items, which is a rare occurrence in itself, you can still observe the simple way of life of the Thai people: an experience you may miss if you spend the entire vacation solely inside a luxury Bangkok hotel.
The Ampawa Floating Market is an afternoon market that begins at noon. Thus if you are staying in a Bangkok luxury hotel during your vacation, you are able to visit multiple floating markets in a given day. Most people opt to visit this market during the afternoon and take a ride through the famed Damnoen Saduak afterwards. After an immensely exciting day, no doubt complete with retail therapy, return to the luxury and comfort of a hotel such as the Metropolitan Bangkok and wrap up a perfect day with a delectable meal at their award winning restaurant.

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Cruise and Boat Rides

Reputed as a holidaymakers’ dream come true in Asia, Singapore is a tiny island nation with larger than life attractions to suit every kind of traveller. A shopper’s hub for luxury brand lovers and a theme park haven for entertainment enthusiasts, this glittering city of the Merlion pushes your imagination to new heights when it comes to having an unforgettable vacation. Frequented by holidaymakers and corporate travellers alike, it is also a compact city that can be explored in its entirety in a short time frame. Cruises and boat rides around the city are the popular choice of discerning travellers the world over who wish to gauge the splendour of this tiny giant in the touristic landscape at its finest. Travelling off the beaten track, tourists opting for a river cruise or boat ride have the unique opportunity to explore an unseen side of the country along its scenic channels and breathtaking waterways.

The most iconic river based tour in the country is of course the famed Singapore River Cruise which takes guests on a bumboat ride of a lifetime in a mere 40 minutes. Jetting off from the Boat Quay and Clarke Quay throughout the day, the spectacular cruise also lets you sample local delights and fine cuisine while taking in the sights for a nominal fee. Sampan rides however are accessible via the Marina Bay Sands which offer a scintillating sampan ride along its canals on a wooden Chinese boat. The ride provides passengers with a stunning view of Ned Kahn’s art work which sprouts 22,000 litres of water in a captivating cascade. Participants can also make a wish when they come across the Rain Oculus Circle as well.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the Singapore Zoo’s engaging boat ride along the shoreline with two docking stations placed at the Rainforest Kidzworld region and the white tiger enclosure.

Travellers on the lookout for great Singapore hotel promotions this holiday season should look no further than Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore for the best deals in town. Situated in an idyllic location with easy access to many of the city’s main attractions, this stylish rest is one luxury hotel Singapore counts among its best accommodation providers.

Singapore Night Safari

Each night Singapore transforms itself into a nocturnal playground and one of the best ways to experience this nightlife is by staying at 5 star hotels Singapore has to offer. The St. Regis Singapore which enjoys an enviable position on Orchard Road, surrounded by the city’s happening nightlife scene, is one such example and is amongst the premier luxury hotels Singapore proudly calls its own. One of the best nightlife activities that can be enjoyed here is to embark on a Singapore Night Safari. The first nocturnal zoo in the world, this family friendly attraction takes visitors on an unforgettable adventure, bringing you into contact with a wide variety of animals ranging from fishing cats to tigers. Spread across an area of around 40 hectares, this safari gives you a unique opportunity to view animals in a night time setting amidst enclosures which have been made to resemble their natural homes. Part of the safari includes cultural shows which add to the exotic nature of this popular attraction.

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Kitesurf in Vietnam’s Surf Central Mui Ne

Having grown into form a quiet spot of beach near a quaint fishing village to a thriving tourist Mecca in less than two decades Vietnam’s Mui Ne Bay is a tried and true success story in the country’s touristic landscape. Boasting stretches of white, powdery beaches and ideal weather conditions for a variety of water sports this one stop beach Mecca is suited for any type of traveler and budget as any genuine tourist hotpots must be. Mui Ne also enjoys the rare honor of being one of Asia’s premier windsurfing venues with ideal conditions for both beginner and seasoned surfers during the months from November to March every year. The period between October and April are equally conducive to the thrilling sporting activity although the number of windy days may be slightly lesser than those prevalent during the peak season.

The morning hours are known for exhibiting light gusts of winds ranging from 10 to 15 knots and the thermal wind gradually climbing throughout the daytime to its peak strength two hours after midday. The afternoon however boasts gusts of wind over 20 knots and can even reach in excess of 25 knots where 7m kites are not only welcome but a must-have at this time of the day. Mui Ne Bay’s soft beaches are perfect for launching as well as a comfortable landing with cross-onshore wind direction also making the venue ideal for first time surfers. Professional kite surfers will also find water settings to suite wave riders with flat waters and brilliant downwinders throughout the day. Those looking for secluded patches along the bay can head down to Malibu Beach also known as the Wave Spot where advanced level surfers take to the seas in a less crowded region of the bay.

Kitesurfing tours are also available for groups as small as six and as large as 14 surfers from local tour operators who take guests to the best kite surfing areas in Mui Ne on a tour that can last up to 2 days or more depending on the personal preference of participants. A number of kitesurfing schools have also propped up along the beach for the convenience of novices and guests can get a complete course in the adventure sport with the assistance of a Beach Boy for a daily fee.

Travellers in search of a luxury resort in Mui Ne should look no further than the Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa. Providing guests with a breathtaking hideaway in one of the country’s most idyllic corners this Vietnam hotel pulls out all the stops when it comes to vacationing in paradise.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Elephant Back Safari

The island of Sri Lanka is home to an exotic array of wildlife that can be experienced by choosing Sri Lanka tour packages that take you to the country’s national parks. Such holiday packages Sri Lanka can be organised with Shanti Travel which provides tours that lets you appreciate the island’s stunning natural biodiversity. A unique way of engaging in some distinctive sightseeing is by taking an elephant back safari which lets you ride this majestic beast into the wilds! As you ride through the jungle you will be able to see a wide range of birds and other species amidst breathtaking landscapes. Taking place in such areas as Habarana, Kaudulla and Sigiriya, some elephant back safaris also let you bathe and feed these gentle giants.

Indoor rock climbing in shanghai

The world class city of Shanghai is famous for its excellent infrastructure and boasts a multitude of attractions. Choose a hotel in Shanghai such as The Langham Yangtze Boutique Shanghai, an exceptional 5 star hotel Shanghai has to offer. It comes as no surprise to any travellers that Shanghai is not a palace rich in natural wonders, thus certain activities may seem impossible here. However, for the pleasure of thrill seekers, indoor rock climbing has been made available. Head over to the Shanghai Stadium Sports Center with your rock-climbing shoes on. Here a range of artificial climbing walls can be found catering to intermediate level climbers and novic

Explore Paradise Found on Engaging Samui Island Tours

Abound with a million possibilities vacationers will have more than their fair share to write home about when exploring the holiday powerhouse that is Koh Samui. Renowned as one of Thailand’s most popular tourist havens the palm fringed environs of this idyllic piece of paradise guarantees holidaymakers in search of something more than a beach vacation an unforgettable cultural and retail experience as well. The myriad of excursions available to visitors are tailor made to fit every kind of traveller and interest with engage activities thrown in to the mix.

Shopaholics will find bargains galore on a shopping tour of Koh Samui as central Chaweng Beach is a veritable hotspot for shoppers during night time. Selling everything from beachwear to quirky local curios this bustling shopper’s hub packs in the best of Samui’s retail potential in to one thriving local market. Those in search of authentic Thai goods on the other hand can head to town where stunning Thai silks, grand teak furnishings, hand crafted art work and hand knitter cotton garbs are found. Jewellery and textiles are available at unbeatable prices while tourists scouring for souvenirs to take back home will also find plenty of options at every turn.

Culture buffs can take a tour of Samui’s captivating ancient religious edifices on a temple tour that explores the island’s cultural and spiritual identity. Some of the highlights include the Big Buddha Temple where guests can watch monks perform daily rituals and observances. The striking sculpture of Lord Buddha adorned with 18 arms at Wat Plai Laem is equally engaging as the towering statue lies at the heart of a lake. Fortunes are read out on fortune sticks as blessings are benevolently bestowed on all who engage in this interactive exploration of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage.

Golf fans can tee off with the best in the island at the Santiburi Country Club which boasts an 18 hole par 72 course with oceanic views in all directions. Island hoppers can also explore the landscapes of Samui on a 4 wheel drive across the rainforest and uncover wilder side of the island with its native animal populace and inland geographical treasures. Those who prefer a mountain bike over a Land Rover can take the sights in via mountain bike on scenic trails that take visitors to the heart of Samui and its natural wonders.

Travellers in search of a luxurious Chaweng hotel will find no finer alternative to the Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Koh Samui. Offering guests the best in contemporary comforts this breathtaking Koh Samui resort is ideally suited for both holidaymakers and corporate travellers.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Sailing Adventures

Sydney is the capital of the Australian state of New South Wales and is easily one of the most widely visited destinations within Australia. The city has gained popularity as the home of two of the world’s most iconic structures – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. It is often referred to as the ‘Harbour City’ due to its importance as a port city and sailing is one of the most beloved of the city’s pastimes.

The Sydney Harbour, which is also known as Port Jackson, is a tourist favourite and few can resist the opportunity to sail around it. There are quite a few places that offer yacht rides. Sailing enthusiasts may enjoy taking a cruise on one of the country’s Americas Cup Yachts – either the Kookaburra or the Spirit. Those who wish to can take a more active role during the yacht ride and take on crew responsibilities while others can simply enjoy the cruise.

This metropolis also has other activities such as surfing, canoeing and kayaking. Fishing is another fun activity that can be done at the harbour although the fish there are not edible. There are a few beautiful spots along the harbour that are ideal for an early morning walk. The city has plenty of interesting tourist attractions including museums, galleries and monuments. ‘Must see’ sights include the Olympic Park, Luna Park, St Mary’s Cathedral and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The city was the first European settlement in the country and it has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The local infrastructure such as public transport is top notch. The city has a dedicated monorail that services tourist spots making it an easy city to explore. Finding accommodation to suit one’s budget is also easy. There are plenty of places that cater to backpackers, while those looking for aluxury hotel in Sydney will not be disappointed either. The Langham Sydney is a 5 star hotel Sydney known for its elegantly decorated rooms and excellent service. Situated in a central location it is the ideal place to stay when visiting this Australian city and is well suited for business and leisure travellers alike.

Diving at Banana Reef

Home to some of the world’s most stunning coral formations and colourful marine life, the Maldives is one of the best places for a diving adventure. Such excursions are easily enjoyed when staying at a Maldives island resort such as Kuramathi Island. Featuring idyllic Maldives villas, the resort provides guests with dive safaris and trips to such points as the North Ari atoll and Hammerhead Shark Point. Not to be missed while on diving excursions is a visit to Banana Reef which is also known as “Gaathugiri”. One of the country’s oldest dive sites, is has a depth ranging from 5 to 30 metres and is well suited for novices. Accessible all year round, it is home to fascinating coral heads, caves and overhangs, not forgetting a vivid array of marine life including pufferfish, bannerfish, fusiliers and wrasses.