October, 2013 | The Adventure Travel Site

Deep Sea Fishing in Bentota

While the sun drenched coastal locale of Bentota, Sri Lanka is known as being one of the best places on the island for exciting water sports, those in search of more relaxed fun on the water which is no less thrilling can consider deep sea fishing. Before heading out to sea look to find accommodation at a Bentota hotel or resort that lets you easily explore this charming coastal area. Located near the beach, AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa is one such Bentota resort that lets you enjoy a range of water sports too.

Those who love the challenge and excitement of catching fish can try their hand at deep sea fishing. Boats generally leave early in the mornings and excursions can sometimes go on for 4 to 5 hours. Part of the fun is lying in wait for something to tug at your bait; while you may enjoy a time of relaxation till then, be ready for quite a tussle as you try reel in your catch! Those planning to go deep sea fishing in Bentota have the chance to catch such species as barracuda, wahoo, jack fish, tuna and snappers and such excursions provide an unforgettable adventure at sea.

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+

Wild Wadi Water Park

The emirate of Dubai is one which blends old world charm with modern development, offering a truly stunning oasis in the desert. This cosmopolitan city has a rich heritage as well and makes for an ideal destination for a family holiday. There is much to see and do here, and if you are looking to spend some fun family time with the kids then a visit to the Wild Wadi Water Park is definitely worth doing.

Located across from the Burj Al Arab, this expansive water park in the Jumeirah area offers a stunning array of attractions that provide plenty of excitement for young and old alike. Based on the story of “Juha” who is known in Arabian folklore, the Wild Wadi Water Park has 30 rides catering to those looking for some adrenaline pumping thrills to visitors in search of more relaxed water based fun.

Master Blasters are “not to be missed” rides which gives you the chance to enjoy the thrills of a water rollercoaster! With names such as Flying Falls, Thunder Rapids, the Tunnel of Doom and Falcon Fury, each Master Blaster provides an action packed ride that one will not soon forget. For more fast paced action make sure to try Tantrum Alley with its downhill waterslides and tornado sections and the Jumeirah Sceirah which features tandem slides that take you on an exhilarating ride that reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h!

Those who love water sports can head to the Wipeout & Riptide section where one can try body-boarding or knee-boarding on artificial waves, while Breaker’s Bay which is home to the Middle East’s biggest wave pool is also a great spot to have some fun in the surf. For a more laidback ride, try Juha’s Journey which takes one on a carefree ride along a lazy river which measures around 360 metres in length. Parents with small kids can head to Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon where younger visitors can have plenty of fun with the water guns and racing slides on offer.

Travellers to the region in search of accommodation in Dubai within easy reach of Wild Wadi Water Park can stay at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. This Jumeirah beach hotel can be found on the famed Palm Jumeirah and provides an ideal base from which to set off on your many adventures in Dubai.

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.

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Fish Head Dive Site in Maldives: One of the Ten Best Dive Sites in the World

The wonders that lie beneath the calm blue surface of the ocean are both marvellous and mysterious and have piqued the innate curiousity of mankind in a quest for discovery. Whether it is swimming through an underwater wreck, marvelling at the vibrancy of the world that lies beneath or whether it is a shallow dive to exclaim in absolute wonder at the vitality and picturesque beauty of the coral reefs, the great blue sea has never ceased to amaze even the most experienced diver. Therefore, it is no surprise that scuba diving and deep diving are some of the most sought after activities by holiday makers. While Rocktail Bay in South Africa, Sulawesi in Indonesia and Cocos and Malpelo in the Eastern Pacific rank among the best diving sites in the world, the small cluster of islands nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean is determined not to be undermined in terms of its underwater brilliance. True to form, the Fish Head dive site in Maldives has proven to be one of the best dive sites in Asia that capture the essence of the marine world.

Known by the locals as Mushi Mas Mingili Thila, the Fish Head diving site is located in a protected marine area in the North Ari Atoll. The site is complete with overhanging caves, a square reef and a number of ledges. The main reason for being ranked among the best dive sites in the world is because the habits of Grey Reef Sharks can be observed at close quarters in this marine area, an advantage that is unavailable at other dive sites. Other sightings of underwater life include Napoleon Wrasse, Jacks, Tuna and White Tip Reef Sharks and the site is conducive to amateur divers as well provided the tide isn’t too strong. Therefore, ensure that you inquire from your Maldives hotel with regard to when the tide is low prior to making arrangements to visit the site.

While those staying at Maldives island resorts in the North Atoll will find it easier to access the site, tourists residing in the South Atoll at hotels such as Naladhu Maldives, need not be disheartened. Maldivian hospitality will ensure that your excursion to the Fish Head Diving Site is well co-ordinated and organised in order to ensure optimum convenience to the guests.

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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Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park, which is in the catchment of the Minneriya reservoir built in the 3rd century CE, is synonymous with the Sri Lanka elephant ever since it was observed that a large number of them congregate here to graze during the dry season. This event has been identified as the largest seasonally recurring wildlife phenomenon in the country. The importance of the area around the Minneriya reservoir to wildlife was recognized as far back as 1938 when it was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary. In 1997 it was upgraded to a Wildlife Park.

Other than the elephants the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including the Sri Lanka leopard, the Sri Lanka sloth bear, the purple faced langur, the toque macaque, two species of deer and the gray slender loris that are among the 26 species of mammals, both large and small that are found here. The park has also been identified as an important bird area in Sri Lanka with 160 species of birds being spotted around the reservoir. They range from large populations of water birds to migrants and residents and include flocks of pelicans, jungle fowl, cormorants, grey herons, babblers, parrots and bulbuls among others.

Pythons, water monitors and crocodiles are among the 25 species of reptiles that inhabit the park. The park’s other denizen’s include nine species of amphibians, 26 species of fish and 75 species of butterflies.

However the other wildlife pales in comparison to the elephants that can be easily spotted and are in a large group. The ‘Gathering’ as the congregation of elephants here is now called, are elephant herds from Matale, Trincomalee and Polonnaruwa districts that come to graze on the succulent grasses and enjoy the water of the reservoir from mid July till end October. The elephants usually come out of the surrounding jungle in the cool of the evening and it is indeed one of the most amazing sights to see them trickle out until they form into quite a large herd said to number 400 sometimes. This is a rare opportunity to observe them in the wild and in endearing family groups.

Whether it is viewing elephants or any other wild life, the natural beauty of the park is part of the amazing experience at Minneriya National Park.

Stay at Hotel Sigiriya in the shadow of one of Sri Lanka’s famous cultural sites and in the heart of the dry zone, home to many of the country’s wildlife. This prominent hotel in Sigiriya provides guests with spacious, comfortable accommodation and a host of modern facilities and amenities including relaxing Ayurveda spa treatments that make a stay here enjoyable. Stay at such conveniently located hotels Sigiriya to have unforgettable cultural and nature experiences.

Guangzhou Ocean World

Providing a valuable space for marine research and education, the Guangzhou Ocean World provides hours of education and fun for all those who visit it. Look for a Guangzhou serviced apartment which would render getting about the town easier and a recommended place of accommodation would be Ascott IFC Guangzhou offering luxurious serviced apartments Guangzhou is quite proud of. Covering 13,000 square meters, the Guangzhou Ocean World is a cheerful mishmash of stories of evolution of marine life coupled together with colourful displays of shoals of fish and other fascinating aquatic life forms. Occupying the latest technology, the Guangzhou Ocean World exhibits more than 200 species of fish and many other rare ocean creatures not to be witnessed anywhere else. It is truly a delight to witness these creatures playing amongst vibrant corals while one can also witness carnivorous marine creatures such as shark hunting for their next meal amongst the reefs.

Boat Ride in Dutch Canal

Once upon a time used as a transportation route for spices and other essential goods by the Dutch, the Dutch canals of Negombo still hold their age old charm and serves as an ideal means of exploring the city. Look for a comfortable Negombo Beach resort such as Jetwing Sea which is known to be an ideal budget Negombo beach hotel located in the area. Running for more than 60 miles, one can still see the remnants of the glorious Dutch era on either sides of the canal in the forms of old Dutch houses, warehouses as well as administrative buildings. A boat ride down the Dutch canal also gives the travellers a different view of this fascinating coastal town, a perspective not seen by any other means. Constructed by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the canal starts from Hendala and runs up to Pamunugama and now provides as a fisherman’s means to get to the sea.

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+

Island Hopping Maldives

Maldives is a country with more than thousand coral islands. When holidaying in Maldives, island hopping is one of the exciting activities that you can embark on as it lets you make the most of your journey. It is always great to have a comfortable Maldives island resort to get back to after a tiring day out in Maldives. Kuramathi Island is one of the best options available as it is known for its elegantly designed Maldives villas. If you are planning on an island hopping tour, do not forget that it is one of the best ways to explore the beauty of Maldives during a holiday. Every island of Maldives boasts of a unique atmosphere and you can explore its breathtaking landscapes, lush vegetation and pristine beaches as well as you can visit many resorts scattered across the Indian Ocean by taking up on an island hopping tour. During an island hopping tour, you can also engage in many outdoor sports such as scuba diving, snorkelling and jungle trekking to make it an action-packed day out.

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. Google+

Hokianga Horse Trekking

The scenery in New Zealand has often been described as breathtaking, tranquil and a haven for nature lovers. There is always so much to do in this country because it is an expansive area and there is a lot to explore. One of the best ways to see the countryside is to take up a challenge and go on a horse trekking venture in the wilderness. Hokianga in New Zealand is a three hour car ride from Auckland. The area is known as the northland and is home to a spectacular forest called Waipoua Kauri. Historically the place was occupied by the Maori people, the indigenous tribes of New Zealand.

Most Maori people trace their ancestry back to Hokianga, thus the location is considered to be the birthplace of the nation. There is an ancient harbour that can be seen when you visit here and the large forest areas are also something to look forward to. Even if you have never attempted horse riding, Hokianga would be a good place to start. There are several horse trekking packages available for beginners to advanced horse riders.

Most of the tracks follow through the forest where you can take a look at the lush vegetation in this region. Giant trees which are over a thousand years old still survive here. There are waterfalls and streams and the forest is home to a plethora of different animal and plant species. While trekking through this area you will also discover the earliest European settlements such as Rawene and Clendon house. Horeke, another European settlement was an ancient ship building town which you will see when you visit. The coastal landscape is part of the trekking venture and riders will encounter the ancient Hokianga harbour too.

If you are in the mood for an outdoor adventure take a stab at horse trekking in Hokianga. There are a lot of sights to view in this region and horse riding is by far the best mode of transport for see these stunning sights.

When on holiday look for New Zealand hotels that are in proximity to the country’s many attractions. For visitors who especially want to make a trip to go horse riding look for Hokianga Hotels. For a luxurious abode and comforting atmosphere check out the properties belonging to Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ in such locations as Auckland and Hokianga.

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.

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Camel Racing at Al Wathba Camel Track

If you are looking for something very authentic during your stay, a good choice would be a visit to the Al Wathba race track. It is not just a race track; it’s a camel race track. Camel racing is truly unique to UAE and will be without doubt one of the most memorable highlights of your tour.
This breathtaking, traditional sport attracts a huge crowd including both locals and travellers. Camel races also reveal the cultural background of the locals and the race is definitely exciting. With the crowd cheering in the background the camels run at a very surprising speed.
In UAE camels are considered as symbols of food and protection. In fact camels are known as the ships in the desert and so they are loved and cherished by the locals.

There is a particular season for camel racing and it is from October to March. Hence camels are a part of the traditional Bedouin life and the races are a serious business in Abu Dhabi. Out of all the racing tracks found in the Emirates, the Al Wathba camel track is famous for featuring the best races. Here races are run on Thursday and Friday. Finding the track won’t be hard as the roads that lead to it are clearly marked. It is set just 45 kilometres east to the city of Abu Dhabi and the entrance is free.

When you are on the lookout for accommodation in Abu Dhabi try an Abu Dhabi resort that will make you feel at home although you are hundred miles away. Of course for a perfect holiday experience there are Abu Dhabi beach hotels which offer a great service for guests. Out of all the options an excellent choice would be a stay at the Desert Islands Resort and Spa by Anantara. This super luxurious resort offers the best of the best amenities and facilities for their guests to make their stay that much better. It is ideally located amid the waters of the Arabian Gulf offering splendid views and ultimate comfort. So head over to Abu Dhabi and enjoy your holiday with a unique experience.

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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Diving For Kids in Maldives

While snorkelling offers a great way to explore the marine life filled waters that surround the Maldives, diving provides more in depth exploration that gives one a truly unique perspective. This fun activity is not only limited to adults however, as diving courses for kids lets young adventurers get a taste of this thrilling water sport. Families in search of a Maldives resort that offers such courses can consider staying at Velassaru Maldives. This luxurious Maldives island hotel also features a wide range of other water sports ensuring that you can spend fun filled days in the sun and the surf.

Diving for kids in Maldives is a wonderfully opportunity for children to explore relatively shallow waters and observe the fascinating coral and fish life here. It is easy to find centres that provide PADI Junior Open Water Courses which are usually for children around 10 years of age and over. Generally such courses provide certification for dives of about 12 metres and is a great way to introduce kids to diving. With the crystal clear Indian Ocean waters providing great visibility, families can enjoy an enthralling journey of discovery as they go diving together.