Dolphin Watching in Salalah

What will be more amazing than watching massive pods of delightful dolphins in their natural habitat gliding under your boat? If you are holidaying in Salalah do not miss this wonderful experience!

Image Credit-By NASA [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

About

Do you like to experience the thrill of encountering adorable dolphins during your vacation? The Oman coast is perfect for this activity and there are more than 21 species of dolphins in the unspoiled seas of Oman. It is better to arrange a dolphin watching tour with an experienced guide to know more facts about these gentle sea creatures.

The speedboat ride

A journey by a speedboat is the most convenient way to reach the dolphin watching point in Salalah. The entire trip will take about two hours and you’ll have plenty of breathtaking scenery on both sides. Therefore, don’t regret for the two hours you spend on the boat! In addition, you can have a clear view of the Salalah coast and eye-catching palm trees alongside the beach.

Accommodation

Before commencing your journeys in this part of the world, it is important to do take note of the available accommodation facilities. Amongst many Oman resorts in the area, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara will come across as an excellent venue from where holidaymakers and thrill seekers like you can map out an excursion to encounter these gentle dolphins in Salalah.

More things to do!

While identifying different types of dolphins like the acrobatic spinner and bottlenose, you’ll also have the possibility to go snorkelling around the bay of Bandar Khiran. It is well-known as one of the best snorkelling destinations in the world. If you are luckier, you can snorkel with sea turtles too!

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

Exploring Johor Bahru

Malaysia is not only all about shopping, no, sometimes it pays off to just roam the city you are in by foot. A city that is placed on the outskirts of Singapore, Johor Bahru is a city with the second biggest population in Malaysia and the best thing to do here is to take a walk and explore!

Temples in Johor Bhru | Image Credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Terence">Terence Ong</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sri_Mariamman_Temple,_JB_2.JPG">Sri Mariamman Temple, JB 2</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>
Temples in Johor Bhru | Image Credit: Terence Ong, Sri Mariamman Temple, JB 2, CC BY-SA 3.0

The façade of Johor Bahru

Tioman is a city that is undergoing a very slow transition and therefore looks rather odd. The reason for this would be the urban looking builds that have sprouted up in the haystack of old buildings that are barely maintained (this is clearly evident with the missing shop signs you’ll spot here and there). Putting it simply, this city is not underdeveloped, but not looked after that well either.

Smiling faces

Well, one can say without a second thought that the upside to the city is certainly the kind local folk in the area. The people here are ever willing to help out in whatever you may need to know, especially whereabouts of the city. They are well versed in English as well and apparently, their favourite word just happens to be ‘yes’. It definitely is refreshing to see friendly faces greet you as you walk along the streets.

Places of worship in Johor Bahru

The attractions here are mostly places of worship that have been around for many years. Some of the temples, mosques, and churches are over a hundred years old. The people of Johor Bahru seem to hold religion very dear, they are always in and out of temples leaving fresh offerings to God. It fills one with joy to see the harmonious atmosphere among those from various religions even though all kinds of worship places may be jammed into one place.

Other information

Looking for accommodation? Why not try Berjaya Waterfront Hotel? Or select a Johor Bahru hotel from the few available. Their food here is great, try visiting the open-air hawker stall that serves the some of the most delicious local cuisines you would definitely enjoy.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

Spending the day out in Tioman

Malaysia is known for its heavenly beauty both inland and on the coast. Tioman Island is one of the most favoured islands by any tourist visiting Malaysia. This is because of its stunning greenery, beaches and little villages that fill the area.

Tioman Island | Image Credit: By Glueball at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.) [Public domain], <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tioman_runway_01.jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>
Tioman Island | Image Credit: By Glueball at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Diver’s delight

Tioman is the biggest island towards the eastern coast of Malaysia. It is also the main diving grounds for tourists who like to take trips underwater. The aquatic life here is vibrant and full of diversity. A spot all deep-sea divers are sure to love is Pulau Chebeh, in the deep blue here you will get a glance at giant manta rays and enormous gorgonian sea fans!

Diving into dining

There are dining options in plenty on Tioman Island. Dine by the beach in restaurants where your meal is prepared with fresh fish selected by you! Or simply try out some barbecue or authentic Malaysian delicacies while sitting in the cool cover of the palm trees. Treat yourself to a fantastic breakfast too at popular dining spots that are ubiquitous around the island.

Island activities

With a rich ecosystem of rainforests and marine life, it is no wonder that there is much to do in Tioman! Take pleasure in visiting the Tioman Marine Park, or simply go diving in Monkey Beach. If you are the sporty type, rent that surfboard to ride the waves or have a fun time going kayaking. Venture to the uninhabited islands here for a quiet picnic and swim.

Accommodation

There is a wide choice of places to stay in Tioman Island. One such Tioman resort is the much sought-after Berjaya Tioman Resort. What’s more, the Salang bay is packed with many hotels and resorts. Not to mention, the many restaurants and shops available for all your requirements.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Nightlife in Makati Philippines

Friday nights are where you let loose from all the stress of the week and just have a little fun whether you are on holiday or not. If you are to spend those Friday nights with your friends in Makati, here are a few places you might find interesting.

Night at Makati | Image Credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/84143999@N00">Vanessa David</a> from Makati, Philippines, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Manila_by_night.jpg">Manila by night</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY 2.0</a>
Night at Makati | Image Credit: Vanessa David from Makati, Philippines, Manila by night, CC BY 2.0

A toast to sports

If you are the sports lover, hanging out on a Friday night with friends at Mulligan’s is the perfect place for you! The pub’s interior gives you the feel of the typical Irish gastropubs. The atmosphere here is quite lively as visitors gulp down their beers and cheer on their favourite teams. Enjoy Irish-American bites available on the menu.

Party hard at Black Market

If you are looking for a break from your calm and quiet atmosphere in your hotel in Makati, for instance, the likes of Berjaya Makati Hotel, head out to Black Market. Dance to the beats of the latest pop songs and a bit of base from the underground music as well. dance the night away, take a few minutes rest at the bar with unlimited drinks from 12 am to 3 am.

Dine fine at the Penthouse 8747

Even though it is Friday, you may not be up for a crazy night ahead. Well, then why not go out with your better half for an elegant dinner at the Penthouse 8747. The theme for the interior of this restaurant is from The Great Gatsby with a splendid view of Manila from the 22nd floor. Relish the fantastic cocktails and treat your tongue to a tasty dish with your partner.

Sway to the disco beat

If the current hits on the club playlist is not your cup of tea, simply walk into Strumms in Makati. There are several bands that will be performing with music from the 70s and 80s. It’s certain that your toes will not stop tapping and you will eventually end up on the dance floor bumping to the beats of the disco era.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

A visit to the Zoo in Dehiwala Colombo

The national zoological gardens of Sri Lanka is one most visited tourist destinations in Sri Lanka as it is home to some of the most fascinating creatures of the wild. Read on to know more about this wondrous place and the animals you could see here.

National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka | Image Credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/25902645@N08">Hafiz Issadeen</a> from Dharga Town, Sri Lanka, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jaguar_full.jpg">Jaguar full</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY 2.0</a>
National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka | Image Credit: Hafiz Issadeen from Dharga Town, Sri Lanka, Jaguar full, CC BY 2.0

Overview

Founded in 1936 The National zoo of Sri Lanka is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Aisa. The Zoo has a substantial collection of animals that live worldwide with over 3000 animals and 350 species. The zoo has well-landscaped gardens and a dense tree coverage which in turn provides shady and serene pathways.

Animal Diversity

The Zoo is home to a collection of native and non-native wildlife that includes mammals, reptiles, birds and fish. They are placed in different kinds of habitats which comprises of an aquarium, a walk through aviary, a reptile house and a butterfly garden. After constant complaints from the visitors today the zoo is undergoing a major restoration project in order to make it more animal-friendly.

Attractions

The Zoo also hosts animal shows every day and will be an exciting experience especially for children if you take them with you. The shows include an elephant dance, Sea lion performance and a chimp show that features a chimpanzee named Sanju. The zoo management has planned to add more attractions to the zoo upon the completion of the restoration programme.

Getting there and accommodations

You can reach the zoo easily by a taxi and it will be even easier if you are stationed in a Colombo hotel nearby. Speaking of accommodations near the zoo the Berjaya Hotel Colombo is a good place to plan your stay after a tiring day of exploration.

Things to remember

After you enter the zoo there are certain things you should remember that is never trying feeding the animals which are strictly prohibited and you can be fined when caught and remember the zoo can be very crowded during weekends and on special holidays so the best time to visit the zoo is during weekdays. The walk around the zoo isn’t very exhausting; although it is best to avoid visiting the zoo during the afternoon if you do, bring a hat or an umbrella with you to protect yourself from the scorching tropical sun.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Sri Lankan Leopards – A mystique like no other!

Both trodden and untrodden paths of jungles in Sri Lanka hold an abundance of adventure and intrigue. After witnessing the elusive leopards, one’s appetite for adventure will certainly be satisfied.

Sri Lankan Leopard| Img by: Thimindu Goonatillake via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 2.0

Sri Lankan Leopard

Also known as Panthera pardus kotiya, the Sri Lankan Leopard is the biggest of the eight known world’s leopard species. These creatures usually come out at dusk and swagger through the jungle to catch their prey. That’s why this apex predator is called the “The Prince of Dusk”. In most of the countries leopards are nocturnal and quite difficult to spot but in Sri Lanka, it’s much easier due to the lack of any other predators’ presence.

Where to spot?

For those who wish to spot this terrifying creature, there will be no better place than the Yala National Park. It is home to more than 40 leopards and the park is recognized as having the world’s highest density of leopards. If you wish to receive the best of the Sri Lanka wild life tours, plan your journey with one the local tour operators such as Cinnamon Nature Trails, to experience magical encounters of these majestic predators.

Behavioral pattern

Young leopards are often not difficult to spot because they don’t try to hide like their adults. They automatically catch all the survival tricks as they grow up. All the female leopards are better hunters while male leopards are a bit lethargic when it comes to hunting a prey.

Leopard watching

Observing these wild creatures up close is an interesting activity adored by many tourists who visit Sri Lanka. Don’t get excited as you get closer to view a leopard on a tree or stalking its next prey!

 

 

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

 

 

Sri Lanka Travel Guide Itinerary

The teardrop-shaped island that floats in the vast Indian Ocean is a haven of tropical bliss. The country owns a rich culture coming from the variety of ethnic groups that make up the population. Apart from the gorgeous beaches, there is much to see and do on this small island.

Sri Lankan Leopard – Yala National Park | Img by: Thimindu Goonatillake via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 2.0 

Explore the Kandyan Kingdom

This is the last of the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka and is the second biggest city on the island. One of the must visit in Kandy would be the Dalada Maligawa also called the Temple of the Tooth Relic which charms visitors with the essence of the Kandyan culture. What’s more, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens which is a great place for a chilled time out.

The Lion Rock

More commonly known as Sigiriya Rock, the humongous boulder is now a World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular sought-after places in Sri Lanka. Climbing up is quite a thrilling experience. A few dozen steps to the top, you will see the queer Sigiriya frescoes and the mirror wall. Once you reach the top you will have the most beautiful panoramic view of the area. Another rock you might like climbing is a short distance away from Sigiriya Rock and is called Pidurangala.

Nuwara Eliya

This is the city with the coolest climate in Sri Lanka, located in the hill country. The best way to get here is by train observing the scenic views that you pass by. There are tea factories situated in this area, therefore the surroundings are filled with neatly arranged terraces of tea. Here and there you may spot a few tea pluckers carrying big baskets on their backs.

Yala National Park

Find rich wildlife in Yala National Park. Monkeys, elephants and sloth bears are some of the animals that can be observed in this nature reserve. However, the magnificent leopard species that is indigenous to Sri Lanka is the most amazing of them all. It is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in Sri Lanka. Hotels with good facilities, such as properties of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts are available for a very comfortable stay.

 

 

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Here’s Why You Should Visit the Maldives

A vacation in the Maldives is a tempting offer no one wants to pass up. Read on to find out about the top 4 reasons why you should be planning a mini getaway to the archipelago now!

Marine life| Img by: Ahmed Abdul Rahman via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 4.0

Fantastic Marine Life

The Maldives have long since been famed for its fantastic marine life. It’s home to numerous reefs filled with colourful corals and nudibranchs along with exotic fish such as lionfish and stingrays. It’s also THE place to go to if you wish to dive with whale sharks and stingrays!

Spectacular Sunsets

Whether it’s all by yourself, your family or significant other, catching a flaming tropical sunset while lounging on a sandbank is another reason to visit. Or why not go all out enjoy a delicious dinner out by the ocean during sunset at one of the many restaurants located on the islands?

Fresh Seafood

If you are an absolute fan of fresh seafood, then a visit to the Maldives is a must. Tease your taste buds with an extensive selection of dishes served by some exclusive underwater restaurants and some of the best Maldives resorts including the likes of Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives.

Bioluminescent Beaches

Treat yourself to a magical bioluminescent sight while visiting the islands of Vilamendhoo, Angaga, and Kurumathi. A natural phenomenon which occurs at night, phytoplankton which collides with the sand, water or even feet give off a bright neon blue light!

 

 

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+