Month: July 2012

Trekking and Rafting in Phuket

The beaches in Phuket are beyond exotic and beautiful. They are great spots to kick back and relax; no doubt, the island is easily one of the best holiday destinations in the world. Phuket however, goes beyond its amazing coastline offering much more for the traveller to Thailand to experience. With plenty of widely spread parks and forests that await your leisurely exploration, age old rich culture and history, fantastic dining experiences and exciting night life, one can sum up a trip to Phuket in one word: extravagant!
Looking beyond these known island pleasures there are the thrilling adventures of trekking and rafting in some of the most scenic areas of Phuket, that are a far cry from the ordinary kinds of leisure pursuits. Ever wondered what it would be like to explore your way through a jungle on an elephant, much like the kings used to, back in the days of old? Phuket offers the ultimate jungle experience in the form of elephant trekking where you get to enjoy the sights of Khao Sok, the most extensive rainforest in the south of Thailand. With the beautiful Sok River Valley cutting through this dense jungle, the views it offers whether you are trekking by foot or mounted on an elephant, is simply spectacular.

Apart from riding these gentle giants, you can look forward to the interesting prospect of familiarizing yourself with the elephants and learning about their lifestyles. These animals, known for their incredible strength and high intellectuality, are fascinating to observe whether you are an animal lover or not. With many a jungle safari offered and plenty of locations to trek, no two days of excursions will be the same!

Apart from trekking, there is another exciting must do activity in Phuket. If you have not tried the island’s water rafting experience, then you have not been fully exposed to the real excitement of Phuket! There is no greater water experience that parallels the thrill of being navigated by the currents of a stream on an inflatable raft. With a number of cascading waterfalls and winding rivers and streams, water rafting allows you to enjoy the thrill of rushing down along crystal clear waters with picturesque scenery flying past you.

Offering something for everyone, from the laid back traveller to the extreme adrenaline junkie and from that quiet honeymoon retreat to extremely loud nightlife for party animals, Phuket in Thailand is a haven for holidaying. For an ideal Phuket resort that provides contemporary amenities and within close proximity to the coast and other major tourist attractions, the most ideal choice would be a Patong beach resort. Millennium Resort Patong Phuket offers attractive packages throughout the year, is an exemplary choice of 5 star hotel that will cater to the needs of the most selective lodger. 

Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge

A one of a kind excursion in the desert, the Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge offers a unique test of endurance.  Featuring a variety of disciplines including mountain biking, sea kayaking and trail running, this endurance race sees teams made up of four participants each, taking on a challenging route that takes them past various locations in and around Abu Dhabi. The route spans around 400 kilometres and takes about six days to complete; Abu Dhabi city, the Persian Gulf, the Empty Quarter and Jebel Hafeet are among the sites covered in the race. Those wanting to experience the stark and beautiful desert while staying at luxury hotels Abu Dhabi, can choose Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. One of the best Abu Dhabi hotels in the region, this property enjoys a location amidst the stunning Liwa Desert and offers truly luxurious accommodation.

Sand Surfing in Abu Dhabi

Anyone who thought deserts entail endless sand, stifling weather and dryness must really have a go at the exciting activities that take place on the golden dunes of Abu Dhabi. Camel rides remain the most popular out of all the desert terrain activities but sand surfing is a close second. 
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates is blessed by an everlasting stream of visitors who find it to be a great holiday retreat and a convenient transit destination. Tourism, hotels and shopping malls have regular business from foreigners and the tourists can be sure assured of the finest comforts. 
Sand Surfing or sand boarding is the sand based replica of snowboarding. The surfer’s feet are strapped onto a board that helps the rider glide down the gradient of sand dunes and take off into the air from the top of mounds. Unlike snowboarding which is a seasonal activity, sand surfing can be done year round, though most people still prefer snowboarding over its modified version. 
Sand surfing in Abu Dhabi is really catching on as the sand here is softer than most other places and the 30m sand mounds stand at an attractive height and angle. The natural twists and ripples on the face of the sand are replaced by rectangular shaped moulds that go deep and wide into the sand as professionals and amateurs both slide along the sand. 
The scorching sun may pose a daunting challenge to the surfers, so it is always advisable to pack large bottles of water and other comestibles to combat hunger and thirst. The clouds of sand that sprout up when the surfer lands with a thud on the sand is another reason to be cautious before you step out to engage in this adrenaline pumping activity. It is also possible that the sand dunes would be quiet safe for the surfers, hence a crowd of people sand boarding together is bound to generate more squeals, laughter and fun. 
The Abu Dhabi resort is commonly acknowledged as exceptional among the elite tourist groups. The Abu Dhabi beach hotels have to offer its occupants is nothing short of winsome. For those who want to make the most their desert expeditions the Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara is probably one of the best places for accommodation. 

Desert Island Wildlife

Sir Bani Yas Islands is popularly known for being home to a diverse array of animals from deer, gazelle and oryx to sea turtles, dolphins and giraffes. Most of the over 100 species of wild birds seen here are said to be indigenous to the region. However, the island is also graced by the presence of a number of non-indigenous species who have migrated here. Take a tour marvelling at the mere diversity of animals one can spot here. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is the ideal for choice for you who seek an Abu Dhabi resort. Known for being one of the best Abu Dhabi beach hotels, it offers the finest of comforts and service.

Bungee Jumping in Bali

Bali, a wonderful holiday destination for everyone requires more than one visit because the constant complaint of tourists is “so much to do with so little time”. While many would have boasted about the serene and tranquil feel of Bali, the highlight of Bali is an altogether different aspect. Bungee jumping in Bali will prove to be one of the greatest adventures you will take part in.
Bungee jumping is all about liberation. Your ankles are tied to a point; you take a deep breath and then just nose dive, arms wide open, hearth accelerating and the wind soaring. It’s knowing your free falling, watching gravity work but denying it a hear breath away and soaring up instead.
There are many bungee jumping hot-spots in Bali, but the most famous is Seminyak, an up market luxury beach town in Southern Bali. Run by AJ Hackett group from New Zealand it’s a 45m jump over a crystal clear pool. Reaching the top of the tower is no issues as there is an elevator. What’s spectacular about the jump is that it’s right by the beach and the best part is one can even take the jump at night, watching the stars reflected in the deep black ocean.
On top, Seminyak has in store some of Bali’s best spas not to mention designer clothing stores and boutiques. Indonesian antiques are also readily available in Seminyak, so there is no worry about what you are going to take as souvenirs back home.  
Of course to do all of these you will have to stay in Seminyak and that’s where any Bali Hotel comes in handy. Offering luxury and convenience of every kind Anantara Seminyak Bali is located a mere 30 minutes from the NgurahRaiInternational Airport making it the most conveniently located Bali Hotels.
.If you want to do a little bit of tourist sight-seeing then pay a visit to the Petitenget Temple and the Tanah Lot sea temple; Asia’s most photographed temple. There is the nearby Nirwana Bali Golf Club for those looking for a unique golfing experience, surrounded by beaches, paddy fields, forests and creeks. 

Diving with the Sharks

Swimming, snorkelling and deep sea diving are all very exciting underwater prospects no doubt, but had the nerve to to dive with the sharks? If you are the extremist who is keen to try diving with the underwater predators then the place to head out to is Maldives. As a country surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters, shark diving is regarded as a popular and exciting prospect in Maldives. While many have the common misconception that this is dangerous, given the reputation for unpredictable and lethal behaviour sharks are notorious for, it is important to bear in mind that there are types of sharks that allows safe diving. Whether you are a newcomer to or advanced diver, the experience of diving amidst the sharks will prove to be not only a safe and thrilling expedition, but one that is unique and a memorable experience. 
Maldives resorts in general provide the opportunity for shark diving in the menu. As a country that has a deserving reputation for hospitality second best to none, enjoy the luxurious comforts within you own private Maldives Spa Resorts. Anantara Kihavah is an exemplary choice of stay for its unsurpassed warm hospitality and uncompromised contemporary facilities.

Experiencing Thrilling Jet Skiing In Passekudah!

Set along Sri Lanka’s picturesque Eastern coast, Passekudah beach is one of the most scenic shorelines in the island. This idyllic stretch of coast stretches for around 4km long and is the perfect getaway by the sea. Those looking for some exciting fun on the waves can engage in jet skiing. Set amidst the clear blue waters, jet skiing offers a thrill a minute ride that lets you truly enjoy the region’s breathtaking coastal scenery. Those visiting the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka and looking for a beach hotel Sri Lanka can stay at Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa. Located in Passekudah, right by the beach, this distinctive Sri Lanka resort is the perfect place from which to enjoy such water sports as jet skiing.

Be part of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Racing

A mystic land with rich culture, mountains and pristine beaches, Thailand sounds like an ideal escape for a peaceful vacation. It is without argument one of the best places for a break, but hiding in this serenity is a new found craze for adventure sports resulting in adrenaline rush enthusiasts flocking for triathlons, kayaking, bilking, swimming and many more adventurous activities.
Organized by Active Management Asia (AMA), the Amazing Thailand Adventure Racing Series comprises of a series of races happening at various destinations across Thailand. The River Kwai Trophy, The Yara Bangkok Challenge and The Koh Samui Trophy are the three main races that are part of this series. 
The Koh Samui Trophy takes place in Bophut Island and comprises of mountain biking, woodland trail as well as off road running, sea kayaking, sea swimming and for an element of unexpectedness, surprise obstacles throughout the race. A mixed gender race, each team has two participants. It also has two categories; adventure and extreme, which you can choose depending on your preferences. 
Koh Samui and the surrounding areas offer many suitable accommodations. The race is exciting but after a stint like that, some of you might want to bask in some luxury at a Samui resort. If that’s the aspiration, then drop in at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui and see if it’s your kind of indulgence. With three types of deluxe rooms and suites including a higher end royal suite, it’s a leading five-star Samui hotel. 
But racing and lazing around are not the only things to do in Bophut Island. With the famous pristine beaches and the quaint Fisherman’s Village, you can experience a certain beach time travel. Get your bit of shopping done at the many boutiques, where exquisite jewellery and clothing are plentiful. Diving is also another activity you can engage in at Ang Thong Marine Park and Koh Tao Island. You can be assured of a magical experience. The Secret Buddha garden and KohPangan will transform your holiday to an exotic tropical experience.  

Whitewater Rafting in Phang Na

White water rafting is a must try when holidaying in Phang Nga. If you are a thrill seeker and a water sports enthusiast, this will be the perfect experience what you have been looking for. The best period to engage in white water rafting in Phang Na is from June to November as it is the period when you get a highest rainfall in the area. It is a fantastic outdoor experience to ride through the bumpy mountain rivers bordered by thick tropical forest. Along with the exciting white water rafting tours you can explore and engage in nature activities as well. 
If you are looking for a luxury Phuket resort to stay at, Anantara Phuket Thailand offers you the best option. This luxurious Phuket beach resort lets you truly experience this island paradise and makes for a perfect coastal getaway. 

Huashan- The Flower Mountain

Huashan, with the Chinese meaning of Flower Mountain is amongst the five sacred Taoist mountains in China. Huashan is important to many religious sites like Taoist temples, pavilions and engraved scriptures which are scattered over the mountain. The mountain is well known for its deep narrow valleys and steep cliffs. It is known as “the most precipitous mountain under the heaven” by the visitors. The Flower Mountain is probably the most dangerous mountain in the world where people visit regularly. The hikers find this mountain a very challenging and interesting destination. The trek up the hill would be very hard yet a successful person would be rewarded by a picturesque view of the vicinity.
The mountain is located 120 km East of Xian. The North peak is known as the Cloud Terrace Peak, Middle Peak is known as the Jade Maiden Peak, East Peak is known as the Sunrise Peak, West Peak is known as the Lotus Peak and South Peak is known as the Landing Wild Goose Peak. The starting point to the mountain is the lowest peak, which is the Cloud Terrace Peak. It can be reached through the winding track from Huashan Village, the cable car or the path beneath it. The next station would be Jade Maiden Peak. According to the legends it is said that a jade maiden was once seen riding a white horse over the mountains and the name Jade Maiden Peak came after it. From this point a right turn would lead you to the Lotus Peak and a left to the Sunrise Peak. At the Sunrise Peak you would get a rare opportunity of observing a breathtaking view of the sunrise early morning. The Lotus Peak resembles a beautifully blossoming Lotus Flower. 
Visitors can also find a gondola which takes visitors across a plunging valley to the Landing Wild Goose Peak which is the highest of the five peaks. The journey afterwards is a rough one with steep rock faces and obstacles and not the ideal trip for the weak hearted and it is dangerous during winter. But the view at the top is simply breathtaking. Visitors desiring to go there early in the morning to watch the sunrise can stay at any Serviced Apartment Xi’an and one of the best choices to make is Citadines Central Xi’an, for anyone looking for good Xi’an Accommodation.