Month: July 2013

Stones You Never Knew Existed

Bangkok, the most popular and developed city of Thailand, is the capital of the country and one of the most famous tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Home to over eight million citizens of Thailand, this bustling city and its unique culture are indeed rather extraordinary, thus attracting tourists from all over the globe. Bangkok’s diverse society, lively commercial street, cultural attractions, and thriving nightlife are some of its major highlights.

A rather strange, yet uniquely iconic, landmark of Bangkok is the Rare Stone Museum. Like its name suggests, this museum is dedicated to showcasing some of the most amazingly shaped and rare rocks and stones of the earth, as has been regarded as a rather intriguing experience. The museum houses a collection of over 100,000 unique stones and other artefacts, thus ensuring that you will have loads to see at the museum.

The Rare Stone Museum is located in the Pathum Thani Province and was established by Banyong Lertnimitr. The entire collection of the museum is privately owned by Lertnimitr who has acquired these unique stones and artefacts over the years. The museum was established in 1999, and ever since has been one of the most unique and fascinating museums in Bangkok. One can witness a large variety of various rocks and stones of different minerals, colours, shapes, and sizes, that are sure to leave you amazed that such stones even existed! One of the highlights of the museum is a rather interesting black rock that resembles two penguins kissing. Although the museum is predominantly dedicated to stones, one can also witness a range of other interesting artefacts such as old but stylish ashtrays, cigarette lighters, and other miniature objects considered to be of good luck in Thai culture. This museum is truly one of the most different yet spectacular landmarks of Bangkok, and therefore a visit to it is definitely warranted.

Overlooking the sparkling Chao Phraya River is the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort and Spa, one of the most reputed 5 Star hotels in Bangkok. Boasting the high standards and traditions of the Anantara group of luxury hotels and resorts, this Bangkok resort offers tranquil accommodation in a range of plush rooms and suites. The tranquilly of this resort is further complemented by the luxury facilities provided by the resort, which include the Anantara Spa, a host of exquisite restaurants, and many wellness and leisure services.

Bangkok Klongs

A lively and thriving cosmopolitan city, Bangkok is a stellar Southeast Asian locale that expertly caters to both leisure visits and corporate trips. Visitors to this splendid experiential haven should treat themselves to one of fine 5 star hotels in Bangkok especially one offering a stellar Bangkok resort experience for travellers seeking a welcome getaway in the tropics. You will find luxury interiors on the waters at the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa which will make for an unforgettable stay. If you want an adventure that is off the beaten track and on the waters of Bangkok’s rivers, explore the offerings of Bangkok’s unique klongs. Other than making you giggle, the name is synonymous with floating markets and numerous tourist attractions set into the banks of Bangkok’s main rivers, as “klong” translates to “canal”.

Bangkok’s history has it crisscrossed with a variety of different klongs that has earned it the nickname Venice of the East”. The canals played an important role in Bangkok’s infrastructure as it was a point of commerce through the floating markets, and they were also used as transport routes. Modern-day Bangkok has seen these fascinating and iconic waterways filled up to make way for roads, but the city’s Thonburi district still retains its older klongs. Central Bangkok sees the Klong Saen Baeb, which is a major transportation route due to the city’s immense road congestion. Modern floating markets are mainly tourist attractions, and the most famous is the Damnoen Saduak market occurring every day until noon. So make sure you experience a part of this iconic feature of the Bangkok landscape.

Oriental Studios 2000

One of the most stylish and lively cities to grace China’s landscape, Guangzhou is an exciting area ripe for exploration. To fully soak in the spirit of the city, leisure and corporate visitors should consider service apartments in Guangzhou such as the suites offered at the Ascott Guangzhou. Featuring elegant interiors, a central location and the crème de la crème of Southeast Asian hospitality, these serviced apartments Guangzhou has to offer travellers are some of the finest in the city. Allow yourself to be transported to the world of movies and magic, with a visit to the famous Oriental Studious 2000, modelled after the popular Universal Studios in Orlando, FL. Featuring two movie sets that depict two different worlds, this theme park is a must-visit item on your Guangzhou itinerary. Lasting 15 minuts, these set shows will whisk you away into a world of cinematic wonder. Explore the world of China’s movies with a glimpse into Shanghai’s gangster era, captured through a variety of exciting stunts and live actors on wires as well as many movie tools such as springboards, falling facades and smoke and snow blowing equipment. The Shanghai show also boasts a line of chorus girls, gangsters, motorcycles and machine guns that will transport you back to the tough guy days of the 1930s. The second set is styled according to movies depicting China’s epic past, with lion soldiers who mimic battles whilst flying through the air in a dizzying display of acrobatic finesse. Although the shows aren’t in English, the sheer visual splendour more than makes up for it. When you’re exhausted by the action, the theme park grounds also features a Ferris wheel and lake, which offers boat rides for some welcome relaxation.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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Nha Trang

Vietnam is a great place to explore for the traveller who wants to see Asia. There are many popular locations to go to and well known cities that many tourists travel to. Nha Trang is one of them. It is the capital of Khanh Hoa province and located by the coast. Thus, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. On the north it is bounded by Ninh Hoà district, on the south by Cam Ranh town, on the east by the South China Sea and on the west by Diên Khánh district.

The main attraction here are the beaches, and the mild mid temperature that lasts though out the year makes it a perfect place to go in the East for a beach holiday. Catering to the travellers who come here from around the world, there are a number of hotels and resorts, shopping areas, tourist attractions, eater parks and amusements parks established not only in the main land but also in the islands that are situated close by. The area is also well known as it is a stopover for the yacht races that take place every year. What’s more is that there have also been several cruise ships stopping by in this city.

For the tourist wondering what to do in Nha Trang, there are a diversity of things to do, go and see. With many islands located close by, it is possible to spend a day hopping from island to the other and seeing their unique beauty and make friends with the locals. There are also water sports such as snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, swimming the much more to do here.

Down Cho Dam Market there is even a tourist information centre which will provide holiday makers ample information on what to see and do in this place. If one wishes to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dish of dinner or lunch there are great places serving amazing local food. One of the things that one must try out here is the bird’s nest soup, which is considered to be the best in the region. The traveller can explore this while staying at a Vietnam hotel or a resort in Mui Ne such as Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa.

Places to see in Hoi An

Hoi An is a charming little enclave of culture and history, nestled in Vietnam’s south central coast. Here you will encounter ample smiles, iconic history, and fun shopping for a delightful experience of Vietnamese culture. Hoi An accommodation options won’t leave you wanting for quality and visitors should sample a luxury Hoi An hotel in the region, one of which comes in the form of the Anantara Hoi An Resort. This elite riverfront property features luxury that expertly blends tradition with modernity for a world-class hospitality experience. Explore Hoi An’s world of eclectic attractions, which range from historically impressive to locally interesting. Hoi An’s old town is a UNESCO World heritage Site, as it is one of the best preserved examples of a Southeast Asian port of trading spanning the 15th-19 centuries. The site is best experienced via walking, and visitors will get the chance to witness the beautiful 18th century Japanese Covered Bridge, a splendid example of Japanese architecture, and the impressive Quan Kong temple, built in the early 17th century to honour a famous general of the Chin Dynasty. Shopaholics will be overwhelmed by the sheer choices of cheap shopping available in the city, especially concentrated in the areas of Hai Ba Trung, Phan Chu Trinh and Hoang Dieu.

But don’t be tempted to lavish all your spending money on one place; ignore the frantic pressure to buy and keep walking; you’ll find better alternatives elsewhere. Try and buy a unique item from each shop; a pair of pants from one, a skirt from another, for variety. You’ll also delight in the treasure houses filled with unique handmade pottery, jewellery, furniture, quilts, embroidered sheets, the list goes on. One intriguing option is Hoa Nhap Handicrafts, which employs local and disabled craftsmen and women who create some beautiful pieces. Hoi An is truly a unique locale home to an eclectic array of experiences that beg exploration.

Uncover the Wild Side of the Desert on a Kayaking Tour of Abu Dhabi

Often described as one of the Middle East’s premier holiday destinations, the desert landscapes of Abu Dhabi serve as the unlikely playground for kayakers from around the world. Offering kayaking enthusiasts a unique terrain to engage in their beloved sport while simultaneously discovering the country, the intriguing tours made available only recently in the desert heartland are some of its most attractive local excursion options. Home to more than 213 islands one could hardly underestimate Abu Dhabi’s potential as a kayaking hub in the region although its resources in this regard have only recently been discovered and explored by tour operators and tourists.

Blessed with 72 km2 of captivating coastlines littered with mangrove forests the kayaking excursions available in the country are mainly conducted in the marshy areas. Considered the second biggest ecosystem of natural mangroves in the Persian Gulf, only second to Iran, the vast landscapes crisscrossed with water channels affords novice and expert kayakers a wealth of experiences in one tour. A typical kayaking excursion can include up to four participants who can set off to the marshy waters equipped with plenty of sun block, drinking water and life jackets. Expert tour guides are on hand to navigate the labyrinth of mangroves on the coastline which are littered with local marine life and exotic bird species. The two hour excursion takes paddlers across breathtaking lagoons, steep channels and tree laden canopies in an eco-friendly encounter that lets one discover the hidden beauty of Abu Dhabi. Island tours are also available via kayak operators that delve in to the outer reaches of the tiny islets dotting the coastline. Chance meetings with dolphins, dugongs and even sea turtles are not uncommon in these parts where guests can also disembark to explore the inner landscapes of the islands laden with crab and other crustacean habitats.

Kayak fishing is another activity on board a kayaking tour of Abu Dhabi. Trawl fishing and bottom fishing are the two techniques used to fish on kayaks here although trawling is known to yield a larger catch.

Travellers in search of luxury UAE hotels will find plenty of elegant options with establishments under the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East group. Offering visitors a wide variety of Middle East hotels in various tourist Meccas across the region, this reputed name in hospitality pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable desert vacations.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Orana Wildlife Park

A mere 10 minutes drive from Christchurch Airport, the Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand’s only open range zoo that serves as an idyllic destination for locals and tourists to meet some of the country’s most fascinating and talked about species of wildlife. Founded in the year 1976 and managed by the Orana Wildlife Trust, ‘Orana’ which is the Maori word for ‘welcome’ covers an impressive 80 hectares of thick vegetation that affords its inhabitants an environment that resembles their natural habitat. Crowds are known to flock to its premises to catch a glimpse of the country’s national bird which is the kiwi along with other species of birds and reptiles.

Those on holiday in Christchurch would do well to schedule a trip to Orana Wildlife Park which is home to over 400 mammals from 70 varied species. A feature of the area is that it consists of banks, streams and moats that act as barriers for those wanting to see these animals in a natural way. The animals found here originate from New Zealand itself while the rest represent the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia. Ideal for a day out with the family, the park will leave kids in awe while offering adults valuable information on some of the world’s most treasured and sought after animals.

For the ultimate wildlife adventure explore Orana’s behind the scene tours that will take you up close with a range of predators that roam separate sections of this enchanting landscape. Hop on board a special vehicle that will lead you to the premises of the ‘King of the Jungle’. Witness these majestic creatures feeding as part of the park’s ‘Lion Encounter’. Why stop there? Select the ‘Meet a Cheetah’ tour where you can marvel at the fastest land carnivore; the cheetah. You are also offered the luxury of feeding the park’s Sumatran tigers and journeying onto the Black & White Lemur Island where you can offer each playful little lemur their afternoon tea. In terms of an educational centre, the Zoo School provides students with interactive learning sessions administered by its on-site teachers.

Searching for the perfect place to stay? Then choose from a luxurious selection of New Zealand hotels of which Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ would be ideal. Pamper yourself in the warmth of these Dunedin hotels before heading over for a once in a lifetime adventure at New Zealand’s very own Orana Wildlife Park.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Ride on a Seabob Cayago Water Rocket

The Maldives has gained fame as one of the most sought-after honeymoon locations in the world; its crystal-clear waters and warm island ambiance affords new couples an intimate opportunity to commemorate a new chapter of their lives together. The Velassaru Maldives presents the ideal choice of a Maldives resort to cater to a honeymoon getaway or simply a welcome vacation. If you’re seeking a singular Maldives island hotel that pampers its guests with stellar service, and exquisite dining and entertainment options, the Velassaru Maldives is it. Amongst the many beach activities you can enjoy here, take an exciting ride on a Seabob Cayago Water Rocket. Presenting underwater adventurer with the ideal power tool for scouring the deep, the Seabob is the latest trend in underwater exploration. Although saddled with a hefty price tag of USD 14,000, the hotel will provide you with these fascinating gadgets that come with an impressive battery life of four hours for optimal deep-sea browsing times.

The Seabob can also be used to gain a dolphin’s eye view of the sea as you zip along the surface of the waves in this unique little invention. The impressive price tag is courtesy of the fact that this is a relatively new technology, primarily in use by the US Navy Seals on missions as well as tourists such as yourself who can experience all the fun without footing the bill. One of the most intriguing features of the Seabob is the fact that it’s completely silent, which means you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the vibrant and intriguing marine life without scaring all of them away. A truly unique mode of exploration, try out the Seabob to experience a new dimension of underwater viewing.

Wakeboarding in Maldives

For those of you who happen to be holidaying in the exotic isles of the Maldives would do well to wake up from your slumber and embrace its inviting outdoors. Experience the surf and sun in all its glory by indulging in a bit of wakeboarding. Choose any Maldives resort for an action packed adventure where the Velassaru Maldives which is a Maldives Island hotel would feature amongst the finest of coastal retreats.

Regardless if whether you’re a beginner or experienced wake boarder, the sport offers the perfect blend of adrenaline and adventure. Manoeuvre the warm waters of the area in an invigorating and fun-filled activity that combines the thrills and spills of surfing, snowboarding and water skiing.

Sunway Lagoon Scream Park

Ever dreamed of screaming your lungs out? Make your way to the Sunway Lagoon Scream Park found just 15 minutes from Kuala Lumpur for a hair-raising encounter with the creatures of the night. Get up close and personal with ghosts and zombies that will make your worst fears come alive. Before setting out choose a serviced apartment in Kuala Lumpur to reside at. Bask in the luxury that lies in wait for you at the Marc Service Suites Kuala Lumpur which is a Kuala Lumpur service apartment that will cater to your every requirement.


Unravel the mystery at the Theatre of Fear and head over to the Horrorwood Studios 2 to witness bloodied zombies running helter-skelter. If that’s not enough, maybe a horror movie of two at the Rumah Hantu 3DX will leave you shaking in fear. Wind up the ghastly tour amidst disfigured body parts at the Freezer.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+