Month: November 2013

Tel Moreeb

The deserts of the UAE not only offer visitors a chance to witness the sheer beauty of the barren landscapes that abound, but also take part in thrilling adventure sports too. Believed to be the tallest sand dune in the world, Tel Moreeb is one such desert attraction and can be visited while staying at a hotel in Abu Dhabi. When in search of accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer consider the luxurious Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi which provides an ideal base for business and leisure alike.

Plan a trip to the desert area known as the Empty Quarter where you will find the imposing Tel Moreeb sand dune. Situated around 25 kms from the Liwa Oasis, Tel Moreeb is aptly referred to as the ‘Scary Mountain’ since it is more than 300 metres in height and features an incline of 50 degrees. A popular spot for motorsport enthusiasts, Tel Moreeb attracts those interested in quad bike and four wheel drive vehicle excursions. One of the best times to visit this area is during the event known as the Moreeb Hill Climb which takes place each February and which gives you a chance to see dirt bikes and other vehicles in action.

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+

Trekking in Gunung Agung

Trekking in Gunung Agung is an experience no traveller in Bali should miss; not only does this volcano hold an incredible spiritual significance to the locals, it also is the highest point on this beautiful island offering a spectacular view to anyone willing to take on the excitement filled hike to the rim of the volcano. If you’re a true thrill seeker, the six-hour hike to the peak which allows you breathtakingly beautiful views is well worth the while.
The shorter, more straightforward hike starts off at the car park of Pura Pasar Agung, where there are plenty of guides waiting. At the gates, one can join the guide in an offering to the gods, asking for protection and a safe return while lighting incense sticks for one of the shrines. After this the true hike begins; including a trek through dense alpine rainforest, followed by a steep climb on the first rocky surface, where the forest has thinned and offers a taste of the view at the rim. The last part of the trek is steep and slippery, but it is truly worth it, because at this point the view begins unfolding in every direction. Ahead of you stands the peak of Gunung Agung while on one side the are the mountain ranges of Bali. On the other, two thirds of the island including the beautiful coastline can be seen unfolding before your eyes. The trek may be tiring, but the beautiful view awaiting you at the rim is worth the trouble.
Although the shorter hike is less tiring, the longer hike is well worth the extra trouble. It takes about six hours in total, and if you want to make it to the peak to witness the sunrise you will have to start the climb at around midnight. The hike starts off at Pura Besakih, which is a vast collection of temples on the mountainside. After a walk of an hour or so, a strong torch will come very much in handy as you navigate the dense rainforest without the light of the moon. Following this is the tough, slippery walk straight up the mountain, 2,622km up. After a short rest at this ‘base camp,’ you take on the most dangerous part of the climb, where it is important to be wary of the cliffs. Once this part of the hike is done, you are rewarded with a view of a beautiful tropical sunrise in a way that only those who take on the mountain can truly enjoy.
Trekking in Gunung Agung is an experience that no television screen or photograph can truly describe. The tough trek is a small price to pay for the view, and if one decides to experience this climb, it is important to go prepared. A strong torch, or better yet a head torch is necessary for the rainforest trek, proper shoes; especially for the walk on the volcanic rock, don’t forget water, snacks, a warm jacket and a few other things necessary for the hike. Last but not the least, a thirst for adventure as well as plenty of determination.
There are plenty of hotels in Seminyak to relax in after an exhausting hike, but to truly pamper yourself, a 5 star hotel Seminyak such as the luxurious W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak should be at the top of your list.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.Google+

Koh Phangan Elephant Trekking

A perfect way to explore the wilds of Koh Phangan, elephant trekking provides a truly unforgettable adventure that lets you get up close with these gentle giants as well. Travellers should look to stay at Koh Phangan hotels or resorts that let you enjoy the very best the island has to offer including elephant treks. Among the leading Koh Phangan resorts, Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa is one such option and is ideally located right by the pristine sands of a beach.

Home to lush tropical jungles and mountain landscapes, Koh Phangan and its rich natural scenery is best explored on elephant back. Taking place at locations such as the coastal village of Caloklum, elephant trekking gives you a chance to ride these animals along paths one may otherwise not get to traverse. A mahout sits up front on the elephant’s neck and will be your guide on this memorable excursion that will take you past picturesque scenery and some truly breathtaking vistas. Best of all you get a better appreciation of these creatures and can interact with them on your journey of discovery.

Kite Surfing

The popular sport of kite surfing is a happy combination of wakeboarding, surfing, paragliding, windsurfing, and some good ‘ol gymnastics to result in one completely awesome water sport enjoyed by first timers and sought after by professional kiters. This exciting water sport is a feature of many a Maldives island resort and your kiteboarding expectations will be surpassed at a Maldives luxury resort such as the Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, which will be happy to set you up with equipment for a fun session out under the sun. Beginners in this fun sport can enjoy it all year round, whilst pros will enjoy it best during May to October which features ideal natural conditions for the most thrills. One of the most exciting experiences is gliding across the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon and witnessing the vibrant marine life teeming beneath the waves. You’ll be able to catch sight of multi-hued fish and even sting rays, if you’re lucky. For the best gliding over water, you’ll want to ensure that you surf on islands that feature lagoons and generally stay away from those fringed by corals.

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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Happy Valley

How about leaving behind the monotony of work and stepping out for a well earned break? Well then think no further than the Happy Valley Shenzhen which is by far China’s most visited and enjoyed amusement park. Located in the Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Happy Valley can easily be reached by choosing a Shenzhen serviced apartment. Do consider a serviced apartment Shenzhen has to offer by staying at Somerset Garden City Shenzhen.

Covering an impressive 86 hectares, Happy Valley is made up of nine themed sections which include Typhoon Bay, Sunshine Beach, Mt. Adventure, Gold Mine Town, Spanish Square, Cartoon City, Playa Maya Water Park, Happy Times and Shangri-la-Woods. Opened in 2002, the park serves an array of exciting and absorbing rides that would make anyone want to come back a second time. Voyage through the dense forests of Mt. Adventure and arrive at ‘The Space Shot’ which will take you up to a height of 60 metres in the air where you can savour a few seconds of the surroundings before being hurtled down at an amazing speed. Take the little ones to Cartoon City where they are sure to be kept company by the numerous fairy tales on show. For jaw-dropping excitement, take on ‘Shooting the Chute’ which is the world’s highest fall located at Typhoon Bay.

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+

Hike Through Puerto Rico Rainforest

While the Caribbean may be known for its sun drenched beaches and exciting water sports, islands such as Puerto Rico are also blessed with stunning rainforests, perfect for a hiking adventure. Before setting off on your outdoor excursions look to find accommodation that also lets you experience the very best the Caribbean has to offer. Staying at Turks and Caicos luxury resorts are definitely worth considering and Parrot Cay Turks & Caicos stands out amongst the available options. This Turks and Caicos beach resort is located on its own private island and provides an idyllic getaway by the sea.

Make sure to plan a trip to Puerto Rico where you can explore rainforests and discover the exotic wildlife of the Caribbean. One of the best areas to go hiking here is the El Yunque Rainforest which happens to be the sole tropical rainforest of the US National Parks. Perfect for jungle treks, this forested area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna including numerous orchids and tree species. As you hike through the forest you may hear the sound of Coqui frogs, not to mention a variety of bird calls. There are many trails at El Yunque Rainforest, each offering a different path and a different journey of discovery. These trails include La Mina, Juan Diego Falls and the El Yunque trail which leads to a peak where one can enjoy awe-inspiring views.

Kitulgala Adventures- Explore a myriad of exciting things to do

Travellers to Sri Lanka would soon find out that Kitulgala, is one of the must visit tourist destinations in the country. Known to be a small bio-diversified rainforest, Kitulgala boasts of many attractions and adventurous things to do. If you would like to explore the country using an internal flight, Cinnamon Air is one of the best Air taxi tours Sri Lanka has in store. This luxury Air taxi Sri Lanka lets you make the most of your journey by taking you to many tourist destinations all around the island. Kitulgala is popularly known among the travellers for White Water Rafting. However apart from being a perfect rafting destination, Kitulgala has a myriad of adventure activities such as jungle trekking, mountain biking, river expeditions and bird watching. It is a paradise for a true nature lover as the atmosphere and the bio diversity of the area are just amazing. You can take a dip in the cool waters of the Kelaniya River and take up on a hike to the waterfalls located in the area as well as visit some of the pre historical caves.

 

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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Wadi Tiwi

If you’re in the mood to commune with nature and explore the natural wonders of the Omani landscape, the Wadi Tiwi is a splendid gorge that has been carved into the mountains, flanked by soaring cliffs and runs down into the sea. Explore this and other features of Oman when you make your base at one of the stunning Oman hotels in the city of Muscat, such as the Al Wadi Hotel Sohar. With a central location and welcoming hospitality, this Oman hotel is sure to please you. Escape the bustle of the city and head to Wade Tiwi, which is home to a charming array of traditional desert villages that are framed by lush expanses of date and banana plantations, with bubbling streams meandering through the landscape. Close to about five kilometers into the gorge, you will encounter the idyllic community of Harat Bidah, featuring quaint dwellings of another age and towering walls of stone. If you fancy a drive that will give you an inspiring adrenaline rush, five kilometers out of Wadi Tiwi will bring you to the village of Mibam, which is located at the end of a rough stretch of road (used here loosely), and is the perfect excursion into the Omani wilderness if you’re coming in on a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Christmas in Bali: A Tropical Christmas

As December draws near, the spirit of Christmas seeps into people’s hearts with shopping malls decorated in Christmas colours: red and green, the sidewalks slippery with frozen snow and a general feeling of excitement in the air. Traditional Christmas celebrations will involve decorating a Christmas tree, leaving out cookies and milk for Santa, hanging of stockings on the chimneys and of course, cradling cups of hot chocolate in an attempt to insulate oneself from the cold. While this form of Christmas has its own intrinsic charm, opt for a different experience this December and make your way down to Bali, Indonesia to celebrate your own tropical Christmas.

Although the main demography of Indonesia is composed of non-Christians, Indonesia celebrates Christmas as a holiday with pomp and splendour. Similar to decorations done in Europe, Balinese shopping malls too resort to decorating the interior with the traditional Christmas colours and the exterior with sparkling, bright lights creating an feeling of excitement and thrill.

The best way to kick-start your Christmas in Bali is to first do your Christmas shopping as gifts are sold only until stocks last. Once your Christmas shopping list is ticked, tourists can opt to partake in the general spirit of Christmas by taking a walk around the city, exploring the markets and the malls, and perhaps singing a few rounds of some carols as well. Celebrating Christmas in Bali is just as exciting as celebrating it in a cosmopolitan European nation, excepting the cold climate for resorts, hotels and clubs organise a series of parties, Christmas events and more to celebrate the holiday.

Depending on which beach resort in Bali you opt to reside in, you may be lucky enough to enjoy a true feast during the Christmas week. If you opt for a hotel in Nusa Dua, you may be able to enjoy special Christmas foods and traditional deserts as well as complimentary eggnog. Enjoy your tropical Christmas to the fullest by opting to stay at a hotel the calibre of Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali which is a hotel that will cater to your every need during this special holiday season and deck your vacation with unforgettable memories.

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 hopes to visit them all someday. Google+

Off Road Driving

A tour of the United Arab Emirates is not complete without experiencing authentic desert life. The rolling sands that comprise the glittering golden landscape of the Middle East pose immense significance to the nations of the UAE, beyond being exquisite to admire and capture through the lens. The many dunes that make up the UAE afford an array of off-road fun that range from driving to simply rolling down the soft slopes.

The popularity of the dunes among the many visitors to the island gave rise to an array of ‘Desert experience’ packages. Now, from the heart of the city, you can rent your own four-wheel drive vehicles and get yourself a tour guide and experience the thrill of indulging in a variety of exciting desert activities. Of all the types of fun desert excursions one can indulge in, the most simple yet most thrilling activity is off road driving. Driving off road is absolute fun despite all the humps and bumps. In fact it is perhaps the turbulence that truly adds the spice to this activity. A word of caution: avoid large meals prior to chaotic off-roading in the desert.

One of the most popular off-road driving destinations is the massive Empty Quarter. These huge dunes present a fantastic driving challenge and is a must experience feature here if you are in town during the cooler months of the year. In the summer, the heat soars to absolutely scorching heights. There are plenty of 4 wheel drives that can be hired with or without a guide and all you should make sure is that it is insured for off-road riding. Company is important when you are wandering off into the desert. A good 2, 3 jeeps along with yours and you are all good to go. Off road driving is excellent as a group activity. If you are going driving without a guide, it is important that you first get the hang of the ropes of the desert from one of the many tour companies in Abu Dhabi. They will provide you with the right tips for the skill and equipment that you would need to enjoy your adventure.

While exploring UAE and all its wonders, consider a stay at the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi. Offering gracious hospitality and charming surrounds, this luxury choice of hotel in Abu Dhabi presents a fine option of five star accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer its corporate and leisure visitors.

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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