Month: August 2016

Wilderness Safaris in South Africa

Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park | Image Courtesy : Namaste South Africa

From mountains to the open savannah, deserts to tropical forests, South Africa is a treat for those who live on the wild side. If you are looking for a travel agency in Sri Lanka to help you book your next trip to explore South Africa and all that it inhabits, one of the many tour options that providers like Aitken Spence Holidays will be able to assist you. Keep in mind there is no particular season to visit this exotic place as all throughout the year each season has its own highlights. However, if birdwatching is your biggest interest, December to April is the best season for you!

Situated on the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa forming merely 1% of the planet’s total land surface is home to 10% of the planet’s known fish, plant and bird species and 5% of the planet’s mammal and reptile species, making this Earth’s third most biologically diverse country. This is a result of the country’s varying geology, climate and landscapes.
Numerous game reserves and national parks can be found across the country, its eastern edges boasting savannahs with some of Africa’s greatest conservation and wildlife, such as Kruger National Park and the ISimangaliso Wetland Park. There are so many things for visitors to look forward to when in South Africa, such as viewing the wildlife, meeting the people of various ethnic backgrounds, scuba diving in Maputaland and in Cape Town itself one can climb the majestic Table Mountain and opt to pay a visit to the historic Robben Island. In fact, Cape Town is located amidst one of the six Plant Kingdoms on Earth, the Cape Floral Kingdom consisting of over 20,300 species of flowering plants with approximately 8,000 plant species grown only in “the Fair Cape”.
Once you’ve booked your holiday, be sure to pack a good pair of sunglasses, sunblock, good walking shoes, a cap or hat, some mosquito repellent and of course a good camera preferably with a waterproof/dustproof cover to capture the wonder that is South Africa!

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.Google+

Highest Point of Hong Kong, Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak Tower
Victoria Peak Tower, Image Credit: Expedia

Gazing at the beautiful cityscape from the vantage point that is Victoria Peak would be the ideal ending to a Hong Kong shopping & sightseeing tour. At an altitude of 1811 feet, Victoria Peak is the highest peak in Hong Kong and affords a spectacular view of the Victoria Harbour and the multitude of skyscrapers including the 72 storey high Bank of China Tower teeming with the pulsating energy that is the signature flavour of Hong Kong.

This energy is even more pronounced if you watch the city from the peak after sundown. A good way to enjoy the night time view would be to take the shuttle service to the city centre offered by Cosmopolitan Hotel Wan Chai Hong Kong (soon to be rebranded as Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong), indulge in retail therapy and fine dining during the day and catch the peak tram after sunset to capture the city’s beauty at night. The flickering light of hundreds of buildings and the inimitable night life aura of Hong Kong can capture the imagination and make poets out of even the most pragmatic individuals. The most enjoyable and scenic way to travel to the peak is to catch the peak tram which departs every 10 to 15 minutes. Rising approximately 1300 feet above sea level and sloping 4 to 27 degrees, the tram ride in itself is an amazing experience.

There is more to Victoria Peak other than the view; the mountainous landscape is packed with lush foliage and bird life while the peak garden presents a beautiful grassy scope. The peak tower is home to a myriad of shops and restaurants to indulge ones taste buds as well as the love for souvenirs of your Hong Kong visit. For a glimpse of history one can visit the site of the old governor’s summer lodge along the Mt Austin Road which was burned down by Japanese soldiers during WWII. The beautiful garden has been refurbished with sundials, gazebos and stone pillars.

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

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Snorkelling Tips

Snorkelling Tips
Snorkelling Tips

 

 

 

The Maldives is an island paradise situated in the Indian Ocean, a sweet escape from your nine-to-five life. Its tropical nature, white sands and clear blue waters provide for the perfect atmosphere for some relaxation and rejuvenation.
In the midst of the calm and serene setting, fun and adventure is not far-fetched if you’re staying at a water bungalow in Maldives. Island resorts and hotels, such as Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, offer a variety of activities to engage in the beautiful surroundings.
One of the many outdoor resort activities available is snorkelling. Without the burden of having to lug around heavy scuba equipment, one can explore the turquoise lagoons in a safer and easier manner through snorkelling, engaging with the vast underwater world amongst the extraordinary marine life it has to offer.
As always, practice makes perfect even when it comes to snorkelling and the most vital pointer to keep in mind is to stay relaxed and to avoid over analysis. Your mask should at all times fit your face perfectly and the best way to figure this out is to hold the mask against your face and inhale through the nose. If the mask fits and stays in place without having to hold it, you are good to go because if air seeps through always remember the water will too.
Pick a pair of fins that give you a snug fit but make sure they aren’t too tight for this may lead to cramps. Another important pointer is the art of defogging as snorkelling is not fun if you don’t get to see anything clearly. Some prefer gel products for their lenses whilst others use a drop of baby shampoo washed with some ocean water. Crushed leaves have also been used to do the trick, so really it’s what works best for you.
Lastly, always practice your breathing before you dip into the water. Wear your mask on and inhale through the tube and remember not to bite it, keeping your teeth and jaws rested at all times.

Maggie Tulliver is a passionate travel writer. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.  Google+

Camel Trekking in the Desert

Camel Trekking
Camel Trekking at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

The Rub’Al Khali desert remains relatively untouched and is adjudged one of the most peaceful deserts in the world. In the UAE it receives much attention by streams of tourists who enjoy the remarkable landscape and endless sand dunes. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is located in the ‘Empty Quarter’ of this gigantic desert. It is a Liwa Desert resort that will allow you to gaze upon a desert that is filled with mystery. You can also explore the desert on the backs of the dearly-loved camels.

Travel expert Samantha Brown and Chris Grundy
Travel experts Samantha Brown and Chris Grundy | Source

Camels hold a sense of secrecy and magic in their eyes. Well, you would say its gait deceives, and shows no sign of adventure and excitement. But it’s acknowledged that the desert is best explored on the ‘humpy-bumpy’ backs of camels. Nature reveals its beauties and history comes alive only when this sea of sand is explored in a ‘slow & steady’ manner.

The duration of your trek can vary depending on your travel buddies and favorite time of the day. If you have kids on board, you can choose the ‘family trek’. As long as your kids are above four years of age, you can choose this trek that will last approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. Your kids are sure to be thrilled by this unique mode of transport.

Camel Trekking Qasr Al Sarab
Camel Trekking – Guests are enjoying the ride at Qasr Al Sarab Resort

Sunsets are twice as beautiful when experienced in the desert. Choose the ‘sunset trek’ and be mesmerized as the red sands take on a golden hue as the sun sets. Be armed with a camera and be sure to ‘click’ away. The trek will last around one hour and forty five minutes and this includes a short stop for refreshments. Be refreshed by the sights and sounds of the desert.

If you are in a hurry to rush around, you can also opt for a short camel trek that will last forty five minutes. Life on the desert is slow-motioned but exotic and mystical, and there is no better way to experience it all than on the back of a camel.

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

Nature Trails in Habarana

Lankarama Temple
Lankarama Temple | Image Courtesy : Orient Tours

Cushioned between Sri Lanka’s most prominent historical sites and exuberant nature, Habarana is a tiny town located in the Anuradhapura district. Its strategic location has made it a favourite among locals and tourists. Also, if you want to meet the royalty of Sri Lanka’s jungles – the elephant – Habarana is the ideal place for you. Habarana Village by Cinnamon is an eco-friendly Sigiriya hotel that has developed a lasting relationship with its surrounding nature. Such properties offer the ideal starting point to begin a nature trail.

Minneriya National Park
Minneriya National Park | Image Courtesy : Cinnamon Air 

Located in very close proximity to Habarana, the Minneriya National Park is a hotspot for elephant lovers. A knowledgeable guide and sporty jeep will take you on a mud strewn track, through a penetrable jungle. Wayward branches and tiny twigs fling tiny blows onto your face. However your eyes stay peeled to spot the undisputed kings and queens of the Sri Lankan wild.

Minneriya Tank
Minneriya Tank | Image Courtesy : Stranger Time

Soon, the waters of the Minneriya tank glisten in the distance and the horizon is speckled with grey dots. Slight movements are visible even from a distance and on a close observation, you will notice that these female elephants show great maternal care as they guide their calves to safety. In order to avoid disturbing the animals, your jeep will be parked a safe distance away from the herds.

Tusker in Minneriya National Park
Tusker in Minneriya National Park |Image Courtesy : The Hungry Grape

A close and rather scary encounter with a lone elephant must also be anticipated. You would be truly fortunate to spot this majestic being, spending some alone-time rummaging through the jungle. Maintain your calm and be as least intrusive as possible, and the King will loosen his defences.

Visit Habarana for adventures with nature!

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

Mountain Biking in Abu Dhabi

Mountain Biking in Sir Bani Yas Island
Mountain Biking in Sir Bani Yas Island – Abu Dhabi

Sir Bani Yas Island, located on the Arabian Gulf is one of the largest natural islands of the United Arab Emirates. The Island, located off the shores of Abu Dhabi is home to around 36 archaeological sites, including a 4000-year-old circular tomb, a watch tower, a mosque amongst others. Sir Bani Yas Island forms one of eight other islands which form the Desert Islands. Owing to be an ideal retreat, the island provides adventurous activities catered to by Sir Bani Yas Island hotels, where visitors can choose from archery, land sailing and mountain biking. Most hotels, like Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, would provide a designated riding route which will be categorized into a non- strenuous path or a path that is more suitable for advanced riders.

Mountain biking through the rugged Arabian wilderness has become a popular past time of visitors to the island, as they are treated to spectacular sceneries of towering mountains and wild animals. Sir Bani Yas Island has been developed as part of Sheikh Zayed’s ‘Greening of the Desert’ programme, which was designed to provide a safe habitat for the country’s endangered wildlife species, where thousands of trees were planted and animal species like Gazelles, Oryx, Llamas and Ostriches were introduced to the island’s wildlife preserve. Therefore, bike riders are sure to see some of these wonderful beasts in their habitat.

Mountain biking is, therefore, the best way to explore the island as riders can cycle through wadis or access some of the lesser travelled paths, while simultaneously working out. Most bikes are complete with a carriage which allows for children under five to partake in this activity as well, ensuring that the entire family has a great time.

Be sure to always wear the helmet provided, and carry sunscreen as the Arabian sun can be harsh and is no friend to unprotected skin.

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+

Experience the Air balloon tours in Hunter Valley; floating above Hunter Valley

With over three decades of expertise in the hot air balloon business, Balloon Aloft has been recognized for the fact that it offered the very first “passenger balloon” tours in Australia. Over the years, it has been quite clear that the company has maintained its standards and remained as the leader in the market for the trade. The quality and the service offered by the organization have always been deemed highly.
Balloon Aloft has also been recognized with many awards since the year 1980. With the location conveniently placed a mere two hours away in the northern direction from the Sydney city, Hunter Valley is the best place for a picturesque balloon tour that will take you above sweeping scenery beneath. The fact that the tour starts early in the morning means that passengers are always made to feel fresh and enjoy a great start to their day of sightseeing, from a completely different angle.
The Hunter valley tours usually start at sunrise and will take the passengers over the beautiful areas of Pokolbin, Rothbury, Lovedale and Broke. The flights are usually timed for about one hour and are best followed up with a good and hearty breakfast. For most travelers who visit the city there are quite a few hotels and resorts in the area such as Cypress Lakes Resort and others that allow for a great dining at Oaks on Collins.
The daily hot air balloon tours that take place can be done for individuals or for corporate teams. The tours can also be done at a different level for VIP passengers and can be used for various celebrations as well. The scenery of the Hunter Valley locality and the refreshing experience can be the beautiful start of a vacation in Australia and can make for one of the best and most memorable stays of your life.

Air Ballon Tour,Hunter Valley - Australia,
Air Ballon Tour,Hunter Valley – Australia, Img. Credit:[Marysia Gunderson]
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, Joanna James ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought. Her interests include Politics, law and Philosophy. Google+

Fishing at Lake Awoonga; “sweetwater fishing”

The Awoonga Dam is built beautifully across the Boyne River which is positioned in the southwestern region of Gladstone. The rock-fill construction consists of a concrete slab while the edge of the dam was said to have been built from a rock that was dug up from a quarry. The bank of the dam is a massive expanse which is more than 650 meters long and over 54 meters tall. The volume of the embankment could be well over two million cubic meters of rock according to records. The construction of the dam and its original design permits room for further building.
The Gladstone water board and the port authority of the city have started a program for breeding the species of mullet and the mangrove jack for various stocking requirements. It is recorded that around 300,000 fish are let into the Lake Awoonga on an annual basis and that the fish are then bred at a hatchery of sorts. This hatchery is said to be the biggest breeding program in the area. The board maintains a “fishery monitoring program” that uses various surveys to keep track of the restocking progress in the lake. Most visitors travel to the dam and Lake Awoonga to catch a glimpse of the beautiful water body while admiring the fish that thrive there in abundance. There are many apartments at Oaks Grand Gladstone such as Oaks Grand Gladstone that cater to the lodging requirements of many visitors to the area.
It has been estimated that since the year of 1996 more than 2 million barramundi and 340,000 mullets have been let into the Lake Awoonga and that about 10 to 25 kilograms are fished from the lake at regular intervals. There are many species of fish in the lake such as the eastern rainbow fish, bony bream, sea mullet, mangrove jack, silver perch, Saratoga, sleepy cod and sooty grunter.

Lake Awoonga Guided Barra Fishing
Lake Awoonga Guided Barra Fishing, Img. Src:[fishingcharterbase]
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Explore the Great Barrier Reef; the 25 million year old gentle giant

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia, Img.Credit:[Szopen]
The Great Barrier Reef is the known largest living reef habitat in the world. It is made up more than 2900 separate reefs and well above 900 islands. These islands span for more than 2600 kilometres or 1600 miles in size. The area that the reef covers can be estimated as above roughly 344,400 square kilometres. This beautiful aquatic landscape is without a doubt the most exquisitely diversified ecosystem on the planet. The Great Barrier Reef that is aged at over 25 million of years is a beautiful home to more than 600 different species of aquatic organisms. In this there has been estimated to be, more than 1500 different varieties of fish, over 4000 types of molluscs and more than 360 different varieties of corals.
Once you go underwater you will be stunned by the brilliance of the colour differentiation that exists as well as the various textures and shapes. The hundreds upon hundreds of fish that live in the eco-system create complicated yet incredibly simple patterns with their graceful movements as they swim around the place that they call home. The many silent dwellers of the Great Barrier Reef include sea cucumbers, turtles, giant clams, starfish, snails, shells, anemones, eels, sponges, rays and much more.
Port Douglas is the nearest city and the leaving point to the reef and each day over 12 tours leave the port. It is a complete diving and snorkeling haven and the nature of the area is such that even a beginner could enjoy a fun and safe snorkeling session. There are many Port Douglas hotels such as the Oaks Lagoons among multiple others that cater to the accommodation requirements of the many travellers that travel to the area from across the globe in seek of a glimpse of this age old gentle giant.

The Great Barrier Reef.
The Great Barrier Reef, Img. Credit:[Melanie Rogers]
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+