Month: June 2013

Wild Elephants Valley

Elephants are animals that are capable to capture the attention of both adults and children at the same time. These massive mammals have faces the threat of extinction. Hence, people in various countries have taken measures to protect these majestic beasts. As a result, many wild life parks have erupted around the world dedicated to elephants. Asian countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and China are some of the places where elephants can still be found. Especially in Asian countries, these majestic creatures have a cultural importance as well. For example, for the Dai people, one of the ethnic groups that live in Xishuangbanna, China, these mammals are a symbol of good luck, longevity and might.


As a result of this cultural importance and the fact that these beasts are moving towards extinction, the Wild Elephants Valley, also known as Yexiang gu, is created for their protection. Elephants can be seen wondering freely and frequently in this area. The city Xishuangbanna is known as the “Kingdom of Elephants”; around three hundred of these kinds can be found in the area. This park has become a major attraction and a major source of income to the residents. Equally attracting locals and foreigners, this valley amazes all that who set foot in it.
If you want to get a good glimpse of these majestic and massive mammals, the best time to visit is during dawn or dusk. Special viewing platforms have been created for the convenience and the safety of the viewers. There would be rivers and streams flowing through the forest adding beauty to the surroundings. The sound of water trickling and the soft chirping of the words would be signs of tranquility that one would experience in this location. Enjoy the lush greenery that spreads through 369 hectares apart from enjoying and observing the day-to-day activities of the huge elephants that have made this park their home. There would be a special trained elephant show in order to entertain the kids especially.


After spending some good time within the boundaries of the Wild Elephants Valley, retreat to a Hotel in Yunnan of your choice. This Hotel Yunnan, the Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa is considered one of the best hotels that would be able to provide a complete holiday to any guest. The many facilities that are offered and the spacious and cozy rooms would add more value to your trip in Xishuangbanna.

 

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+

Thu Bon River

The Thu Bon River is a gorgeous river that flows through Hoi An in Vietnam. Located in Central Vietnam, it flows northwest through several villages creating a picturesque view as it forms the border between Suy Xuyen and Dai Loc. The valley of Thu Bon has been the center of the Champa culture that existed in Vietnam from 700 BC.


Boat rides on this river are a famous excursion among the locals as well as tourists. The traditional way across the river is on board the local boats referred to as Sampan. There is however several better maintained tourist boats that function on the river. Most boats are steered by women. Tourists love the experience of local culture and lifestyle while these boats pass through rural villages and communities who live mostly off fishing, in little fishing huts on the banks of the river.
The time of sunset is a beautiful time to take a tour aboard a Sampan. Especially before 7 o’clock in the morning and after 16.30 in the evening, are good times to catch a great glimpse of the far stretching river and life around it. The full moon festival is a celebration that sees the area come alive with good cheer and festivities, although there is a fare hike during these days, one that’s incomparable to the once in a life time experience of this beautiful festival.


Most locals only speak Vietnamese, so you might feel a bit lost. However you will be amazed at what a long way, eye contact and hand gestures could go here. Negotiate with the Sampan women and you will even get a longer ride than usual and cover more ground or should we say river, than usual.
While you discover the interesting culture surrounding the river Thu Bon and the fascinating river itself, stay at a Luxury Hotel Vietnam that will truly add to your experience of Vietnam. A Hoi An Spa Resort that truly believes in pampering its guests is the Anantara Hoi An Resort. This gorgeous hotel, offers a truly authentic experience within a luxury ambience, while it extends its hospitality to cater to every holidaymakers need.

 

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+

Snorkeling In Sir Bani Yas Island

A natural island situated to the southwest of Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island is renowned for offering a plethora of nature based activities. Abu Dhabi villas at beautifully appointed resorts Abu Dhabi such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas make for an ideal choice of accommodation. A visitor to Sir Bani Yas Island should make it a point to go snorkeling after kayaking through mangrove forests. The activity presents the ideal opportunity to explore some of Arabia’s exotic marine life. Among the various species you will spot are sea urchins and the Hammour-the iconic Arabic fish. Take a boat trip to a nearby reef on the island’s western side for a truly memorable snorkelling experience.

Wonderla

Exciting water rides, adrenaline pumping thrills and fun filled amusements are all ingredients for the perfect family theme park and you will find just such a place at Wonderla in Bangalore. This popular attraction is around 28 kms from the city and those in search of Bangalore service apartment accommodation which makes a convenient base can consider Citadines Richmond Bangalore. Situated near the business district, these serviced apartments Bangalore are well suited for those looking to explore the “Garden City”.

Spread across a land area of around 82 acres, the Wonderla park has a plethora of action packed rides and even more milder attractions that cater to all ages. If you are looking for some heart pounding thrills then Equinox which reaches speeds of up to 70km/h while offering a ride full of twists and turns, Hurricane which spins at dizzying speeds at heights as much as 20 metres and the Wavy and Vertical Fall that takes you on a high-speed water ride are among the not to be missed attractions here. For younger kids there are such rides as the Jumping Frog and the Mini Pirate Ship, while the Lazy River, Rain Disco and Wave Pools provide ideal options in which to beat the heat and have fun at the same time.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Heart & Soul Divers

A visit to Phuket would not be comepleted without a diving excursion in the Patong sea. Whether you are a professional diving expert or merely an amateur, Heart & Soul Divers in Phuket would let you experience a perfect diving experience in Phuket. If you are residing at a Phuket resort closer to the beach, it would let you enjoy almost all the water sports activites, Phuket has in store for its visitors. Millennium Resort Patong Phuket is one of the popular Patong resorts that gives easy access to all the top attractions and exciting activities in Phuket. Diving enthusiasts in Phuket can select from a range of dive trips and exciting excursions from Heart & Soul Divers and the dedicated and experienced divers at this place would provide all the necessary guidance along with their equipments to get on you diving trip in Phuket.

 

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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Thorpe Park

London is Britain’s lively cosmopolitan hub of culture and wonder, offering premium shopping, a splendid royal legacy and vibrant multi-culturism. To fully absorb all the city sights, visitors should consider an exclusive neighbourhood such as Oxford and Regent Street, which offers quality London serviced apartments for discerning travellers. Nearby, visitors might want to consider a Mayfair Serviced apartment such as the Ascott Mayfair London with its stylish modern accommodation in the heart of the city, close to fine shopping, dining and entertainment. Visitors seeking a thrill for the entire family will want to head to Surrey to Thorpe Park, one of the UK’s most exciting theme parks boasting the best family-friendly entertainment on the isles, and it is the 2nd most visited theme park in the country, and the 10thmost visited in Europe. As you walk in, be transported under the sea to the famous lost continent of Atlantis, as the entrance dome takes you through this underwater fantasy land. Take in the quant sights of a New England fishing village at Amity Cove that was devastated by a storm in the 1960s.  Relive the storm via exciting rides such as the No Way Out, Stealth, Tidal Wave and Storm Surge. Explore the Canadian Wilderness in the Canada Creek section, with a wild water river ride in a forested area called Loggers Leap, the tallest log flume in the UK. Kids will enjoy Neptune’s Kingdom, which is a small beach with a water area and fun rides such as the Flying Fish and Depth Charge. Ranger Country is another section geared especially for the younger crowd, and its signature feature is Mr. Monkey’s Banana Ride. For adrenaline junkies, Swarm Island is an exciting, post-apocalyptic section opened in 2012, with a popular rollercoaster The Swarm taking stage front and centre. Stealth is a rollercoaster that accelerates to 130kh/h in 1.8 seconds. Colossus is a multi-looping rollercoaster with a record ten inversions and spins. So whatever flavour of adventure visitors seek, they’re sure to find it and more at Thorpe Park!

 

Mount Wellington Descent Cycling Tour

If you want to experience all the high-octane fun of a roller coaster ride while also having the possibility to take in some truly breathtaking views, then a descent of Mount Wellington on a bicycle is just the thing for you! An extinct volcano, Mount Wellington can be found at the edge of the city of Hobart in New Zealand and those in search of centrally located accommodation in Hobart from which to make the journey to this site can consider Somerset on Salamanca Hobart. Featuring modern apartment accommodation Hobart has to offer, this well placed property makes an ideal base for your visit.

Towering to a height of around 1,271 metres, Mount Wellington is covered by snow during winter, while during the warmer months it provides the perfect setting in which to enjoy some cycling fun. Though the journey up near the summit may take some gruelling pedal power, the ride downhill is one full of adrenaline pumping thrills. Mount Wellington descent cycling tours are specially designed to provide you with a chance to not only enjoy this experience (minus the uphill climb), but also take in the panoramic views from certain viewpoints; witness the stunning landscapes of Hobart including the Derwent Valley and the coastal scenery that stretches into the distance. Enjoy the pure thrill of speed and freedom as you rush downhill on this tour which takes around 3 hours, though it is shorter if you plan to just focus on the need for speed!

Flight Experience

If you have unfulfilled dreams of becoming a commercial airline pilot or just want to experience the rush of piloting a Boeing 737, then the Flight Experience in Singapore is the perfect thing for you! This popular airplane simulator can be found at the Singapore Flyer and those in search of centrally located serviced accommodation Singapore from which to visit this attraction can consider Somerset Liang Court Singapore. Offering private accommodation Singapore with Jacuzzi, fitness centre and a range of other modern amenities, this well placed property is within easy reach of the Central Business District as well.

Giving you the chance to take control of a cockpit that has been designed exactly like the real thing, the Flight Experience is a simulator that offers as much realism as possible. Used as a pilot training programme, the simulator is officially licensed by Boeing as well. The First Officer here will be your guide and help you familiarise yourself with the various controls, instruments and levers in the cockpit. Feel the thrill of take off as you skilfully manoeuvre this giant aircraft and experience the freedom of flight as you coast along the skies. Do not get too carried away however, because before long you will have the challenging task of landing your plane from a choice of airports from around the world.

Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park

The Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park is paradise for the nature lover. With captivating scenery and an array of chirping birds providing the perfect backdrop, the Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park makes the perfect niche for relaxation.

The Khao Nang Phanthurat has the best of all sorts of natural wonders. The area in its entirety is covered by cave-ridden limestone hills and thick forested greenery. Inside the park, you can find an interesting walking trail that stretches up to 3km. This trail takes you through some of the most gorgeous scenery that is adorned by an array of beautiful flora and fauna and plenty of natural rock formations.

Surrounding the park beauty already dawns, for the trip to the park is more like a prologue for what you find in the park. The many limestone quarries that you will meet on the way leading to the mountains are very artistic and are quite fascinating to look at.

The Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park has two important mountains called Khao Chomprasart and Khao Chaolai. These are situated between 60-372 meters above sea level. The mountain has a unique shape that is noticed by everyone visiting the park. Both the mountains together resemble a great giant lying on her side. It really comes as no surprise that the park was named Nang Phanthurat because in Thai Folklore this is the name of a famous female giant.

Every where you turn, the park is adorned by ever green forests and mixed deciduous forest. Year round the park enjoys a healthy green landscape and is home to an array of different species that includes plants, animals and birds. The park with its soothing ambience makes an excellent location for a picnic or a jog.

When it comes to staying in one of the Hua Hin hotels, the beach hotels Hua Hin Thailand has are a popular choice. There is something so serene about the Thai beaches that it actually reflects the ambience you will experience at the Khao Nang Phanthurat Forest Park. For the best of all the beach hotels, stay at the exoticAnantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort .

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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Yas Marina Circuit Abu Dhabi

The Yas Marina Circuit is located on Yas Marina Island, which is also home to Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld. The track, which is used for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, was a design of the renowned racecourse architect, Herman Tilke. It is Middle East’s second Formula One race track after the one in Bahrain. With a total length of almost six kilometres, the racecourse has the capacity to seat about fifty thousand people. Construction on the course began in 2007 and took only about two years to complete, with the track opening in October 2009.

Since it was opened the track has hosted multiple international events including the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the FIA Formula One, V8 Supercars and GT1 World. The track, which bears a resemblance to the F1 track in Monaco, has a distinct Arabian flavour. There are a total of twenty one turns and each one is unique, making for highly thrilling races. There are five grandstands from which audiences can view all the action. The grandstands are designed to enhance the viewing experience. The track is only about thirty minutes from Abu Dhabi City and tourists visiting the UAE capital should definitely try to visit this place even if there are no races scheduled.

Visitors to the Yas Marina Circuit should also try to stop by the Ferrari World Theme Park located nearby. The park is the largest indoor theme park on the planet and contains over twenty rides, including the Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in operation. In addition to rides, the park also provides fascinating insights into the world of racing and is sure to resonate with racing enthusiasts from around the world.

Travellers planning a tour of the attractions in the Middle East should consider getting accommodation with hotel chains like the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East. They contain a series of Middle East hotels including Oman, Kuwait, Qatar and UAE hotels. Getting accommodation with a hotel chain ensures that one gets the same standard of service no matter where one visits and it minimises the hassles of booking multiple hotels.

 

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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