caleb | The Adventure Travel Site

A solo travelers guide to the Maldives

Go on a dolphin cruise

How about going on a sunset dolphin cruise to get up close to the gentle dolphins? The variety and the richness of marine creatures in Maldives attract many a tourist from all around the world each year. There are more than 700 different species of marine creatures swimming around atolls and stunning coral reefs.

benjamin-l-jones-XGygXrXUSGM-unsplash — diving | Image by Benjamin L. Jones via Unsplash

Scuba diving

You can explore the underwater wonders at a leisurely drift pace! Numerous deserted and isolated islands offer a wonderful playground for all leisure scuba divers. You are more likely to sport Napoleon Wrasses, the magnificent Manta Rays, lots of pelagic fishes and the very rare Whale Shark! This is an incredible thing to do in Maldives if you are holidaying at one of the many Maldives spa hotels the likes of Kurumba Maldives.

Glorious Sunsets

What better way to witness the unrivalled beauty of this island paradise than soaking up a stunning sunset view! Just lie down on the beach or go on a dolphin-watching sunset cruise to take in a golden hour. At the coming of the dusk, the island comes alive with fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and reds.

Beaches

Undoubtedly one of the top reasons to visit Maldives! These sparkling blue oceans are perfect not only for honeymooners but also for all leisure travellers who seek a soothing holiday. In order to make the best of your beach holiday, try to visit Maldives from December to April when the humidity is low.

Discover the Beauty of Bandung: A Guide to Your Perfect Day Trip

As the country’s 3rd largest city, Bandung is not only West Java’s mountain stronghold, but a holiday hotspot for the masses. Here’s what day-trippers can do during a tour of this scenic hideaway.

Tangkuban Perahu | Image by Affan Fadhlan on Unsplash

Marvel at the Cimahi Rainbow Waterfall

While the best time to gaze upon the Cimahi waterfall is during sunset when the light turns the cascade into a vertical rainbow, this towering natural wonder is stunning at any hour. Although the waterfall is known to double in size during the monsoon season, it is worth visiting the venue during the warmer months so that the hike up to the location is a more pleasant experience.

Hike Up the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano

No day tour of Badung would be complete without exploring the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano, which erupted for the last time in 2013. Those who are based at the FOX Harris Hotel City Center Bandung or any of the best hotels in Bandung must find a local tour operator for this volcanic tour even if the hike up to the crater’s lips is not that long.

Take a Dip in the Hot Springs

One of the best things to do in Badung is to enjoy a dip in the many hot springs in town. These hot springs are a result of the area’s volcanic heritage. Apart from the healing benefits of this warm dip, one can also unwind in style at either the Cibolang hot spring or the Sari Ater.

Uncover the Tea Estates

Don’t forget to stop by the many tea estates occupying Bandung where one can not only explore the tea plantations but also sign up for a factory tour. The tea estates close to Kawah Putih are especially captivating and ideal for long walks.

A Stroll through the Ningbo Museum

Renowned for its iconic design, Ningbo Museum is a must-visit highlight for culture buffs holidaying in the area. Here’s what you can expect to see on a tour of the museum.

Siyuwj, South Gate of Ningbo Museum, CC BY-SA 3.0

At a Glance

As a cultural instruction that’s documenting the history of Ningbo and the Yonzhou area spanning a whopping five thousand years, Ningbo Museum is a must-see attraction for all. Housed in an iconic structure designed by Wang Shu, the first Chinese recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize, the box-shaped museum is divided into 3 levels.

A Rich Collection

Having opened its doors to the public in 2008, Ningbo museum boasts a vast collection of artefacts and art pieces that number well over 8000 items. This not only includes items of historic and cultural value but also artistic prowess. Paintings, porcelain, carvings, sculptures, jades, silverware and bronzes are all part of the exhibits on show at the venue’s galleries.

The Galleries

There are entire galleries dedicated to local Chinese history and these exhibition areas feature ancient photographs, relics and models, exploring Chinese history and the various customs that have evolved over the centuries. Some of the most prized showpieces in this section include the writings of eastern Zhejiang scholars who are credited with Ningbo’s rapid expansion.

Ningbo’s Past

Another engaging section of the museum delves into the local culture of Ningbo and documents its rise to a commercial epicentre. The 4th level of the museum is where the bamboo relics are found. Donated by the family of Qin Kangxiang, a well known collector, these artefacts are simply exquisite, and those based at Ascott Huaishu Road Ningbo or any one of the other serviced apartments in Ningbo will perhaps find it the most memorable part of their tour.

Best Tourist Attractions in Myeongdong to Explore

Myeongdong is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Seoul, South Korea. Known for its shopping, food, and entertainment, there’s no shortage of things to do in this bustling neighbourhood. If you only have 24 hours to spend in Myeongdong, here are three ways to make the most of your time.

Myeong-dong, Jung-gu, Séoul, Corée du Sud | Image by (っ◔◡◔)っ Clement 🇰🇷 on Unsplash

Explore the entertainment

Myeongdong is also home to an array of entertainment options, from the historic Myeongdong Cathedral to the Namsan Tower. If you’re interested in K-pop, you can also check out one of the many music shows and performances that take place in the area. You can take a walk to these places from any Myeongdong hotel including the famous Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall.

Shop till you drop

Myeongdong is a shopper’s paradise, with everything from high-end luxury brands to budget-friendly streetwear. You’ll find everything from designer clothing and accessories to cosmetics, skincare products, and more. Be sure to check out the Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center, where you’ll find a wide variety of shops selling everything from clothes to electronics.

Eat your way through the neighbourhood

Myeongdong is also famous for its food, and you’ll find a wide variety of Korean, Chinese, and international cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Korean barbecue, jajangmyeon (noodles in black bean sauce), and hotteok (sweet pancakes). Be sure to also try some street food like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng (fish cakes).

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Experience the best things to do in Myeongodng to make the most of your time including shopping, entertainment, and enjoying local food during your stay.

Fun Experiences You Should Not Miss in Myeongdong

Myeongdong is a popular shopping and tourist district in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. From shopping for everything you need to enjoy some scrumptious street food, here are three things you won’t want to miss when you visit Myeongdong.

Street food in South Korea is always a good choice. Also the lights are incredible. | Image by Varta Matsakian on Unsplash

Shopping

Myeongdong is a shopper’s paradise, with countless department stores, boutiques, and street vendors selling everything from Korean skincare and makeup to designer fashion and souvenirs. You’ll find international brands alongside local labels, and you can haggle with street vendors for the best prices. You can stay at any Myeongdong hotel in Seoul and easily get to many shopping destinations. Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro is a great choice of accommodation.

Street food

Myeongdong is also famous for its street food, with vendors selling a wide variety of delicious and affordable snacks. Some must-try items include tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and odeng (fish cakes on a stick). Be sure to also try some traditional Korean street food like gimbap (Korean sushi roll) and mandu (dumplings).

Beauty treatments

In addition to shopping for beauty products, you can also get pampered in one of the many beauty salons in Myeongdong. From skin care treatments to hair styling, you’ll find everything you need to look your best. Some salons even offer traditional Korean beauty treatments like hanbang (herbal) facials and body scrubs.

The Best Malls in Manila, Philippines

Whether it’s drooling over high-end brands or striking up the best bargains for fantastic quality items, Manila is a kaleidoscopic whirlwind of customer satisfaction! Here are the most epic malls in the vibrant Capital.

SM_megamall_-_Building_A_atrium_(EDSA,_Ortigas_Center,_Mandaluyong)(2017-07-15) — Patrick Roque, SM megamall – Building A atrium (EDSA, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong)(2017-07-15), CC BY-SA 4.0

SM Mall of Asia

From post-war vintage art galleries and insightful historic remnants like Intramuros to rustic boutiques and gourmet street food, Manila reels you in with profound vivacity. For some state-of-the-art retail therapy, the SM MOA is an urban fantasy with its upmarket local and international stores, Olympic-sized skating rink, Science Centre, amusement park, and SMX Convention Centre.

Greenbelt Mall

For a more laidback shopping excursion, head to Greenbelt with its five-in-one shoppable centres playing on the preferences of various budget ranges with value-added excellence. From trying out authentic Asian delicacies and local artisan brands to browsing bougie boutiques or affordable home goods stores, you won’t leave empty-handed!

SM Megamall

While retro-chic vibrance is the vibe of Manila’s lush heritage parks, culture-rich exhibitions, and eye-opening colonial quarters, it can also flaunt cutting-edge glamour with mammoth structures such as the SM Megamall, with its separate immersive complexes for foodies, shoppers, and those seeking exhilarating recreation and edutainment pursuits!

Glorietta

An elegantly fashionable escape of trendsetting boutiques, arcades, eateries, and wellness emporiums, you won’t get a more refreshingly holistic bijou experience anywhere in Manila! If you’re looking for premier serviced apartments in Alabang located close to chief urban enticements, venture no further than Somerset Alabang Manila.

TRINOMA

For the rejuvenating novelty of claiming designer products in a lush park mall, complete with airy rooftop gardens, reverse waterfalls, dense greenery, and delicious alfresco dining, TRINOMA is the place to shop!

Must-Try Adventure Activities in Maldives

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your getaway of beachside bliss in the Maldives, here are some activities that will add some exhilaration to your holiday.

Snorkelling

This water sport is one that the whole family can try and with the waters surrounding the islands home to thriving coral and marine life, you can look forward to many fascinating discoveries. For something truly memorable, stay at properties like Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences and go snorkelling amidst manta rays and whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll during the season! You also get night snorkelling that offers a whole new perspective of life beneath the waves.

Scuba Diving

There are more marine marvels to encounter deeper underwater which is why scuba diving is amongst the best things to do in Maldives for adventure seekers. Stay at a resort that not only offers the needed PADI certification and training but access to key sites in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. On your exploration, apart from vibrant coral, you can encounter butterflyfish, manta rays, eagle rays, nurse sharks, squirrelfish, stingrays, moray eels, turtles and more.

Dolphin Watching

Back above the waves, you can embark on a captivating dolphin-watching cruise at sunset. This time of the day makes excursions even more special as the skies radiate with colour as the sun slips below the horizon; best of all, is the chance to see dolphins swimming freely in their natural habitat without a care in the world. Amongst the memorable encounters, you can look forward to, is spotting playful spinner dolphins spinning or even leaping above the ocean waters!

Fishing

Those who love to fish are in for a treat since there are various activities to try including big game fishing; you get a chance to reel-in sought-after species like barracuda, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and barracuda. If you’re looking to experience something different, you can head off on a traditional sunrise fishing excursion to catch emperor fish or jackfish. Alternatively, you also get sunset fishing using the traditional Maldivian handline technique.

Things to Do at Ao Nang, Thailand – Traverse the Paradise

An enchanting beach town in Thailand far away from the capital city is Ao Nang. Filled with natural spoils such as rainforests, beaches, and waterfalls, it is the perfect destination to relax and unwind. There are ample activities to keep you busy throughout your stay.

A Laid-back Holiday at Noppharat Thara Beach

If you enjoy some quality time at the beach with less crowd around you, Noppharat Thara Beach is the ideal place to be. You can have a thirst-quenching sundowner and enjoy the sunsets. This beach is only a 10-minute walk away from the main beach area and most Ao Nang hotels. If you’re looking for accommodation, you can choose Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort close by.

Hong Island Tour

A mesmerising island surrounded by turquoise blue waters and powdery beaches, Koh Hong Island boasts natural beauty, leaving you in awe. You can engage in a range of watersports such as snorkelling, swimming, and fishing.

The Emerald Pool

If you’re an avid nature lover, you will be lost in the beauty of the lush greenery and serenity around you. Hikers and wildlife explorers from all over the world visit Ao Nang to witness the Emerald Pool. This freshwater pool has the most unique and stunning shades of turquoise.

Maksym Kozlenko, Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot), CC BY-SA 4.0

Railay Beach

One of the most stunning beaches in Ao Nang, Railay Beach with many outdoor activities to get some adrenaline rush in your body. From trekking, rock climbing, and kayaking to swimming, you will find many enjoyable things you can do. You can even relax by the beach and sip a Margherita for a change too.

A Scenic Train Ride to the Hillside of Sri Lanka

There is no better way to explore the scenic hillside of Sri Lanka than hopping on board a train. As you pass by the verdant hills, lush tea terraces and stunning cascades, do not forget to stop by and take in the beauty and serenity of the surroundings.

The Train Ride

Journeying across the hillside of Sri Lanka on a train ride is an absolute pleasure. Some Kandy hotels like the cosy Amaya Hills are located within proximity to the train station, so hopping on board the train is hassle-free. As you embark on this spectacular train ride, do not forget to stop and explore the beautiful Haputale, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and many more.

Haputale

Surrounded by cloud forests and leafy tea terraces, the quaint town of Haputale gives a glimpse of the local village life. Here you can escape the hubbub of the city and relish the tranquillity of the hillside. Some of the most delightful things to do as you while away in this serene locality include hiking up to the Lipton’s seat, exploring the Adisham Bungalow and trekking through the Thangamale Bird Sanctuary.

Ella

An hour-long train ride away from Haputale, Ella is a hidden gem for the modern-day adventurer. Teeming with stunning tea terraces and misty mountain trails, no trip to this small town is complete without stopping by the famous Nine Arches Bridge and taking a hike to the panoramic little Adam’s peak.

Traversing the Train Tracks

As dangerous as it may sound, walking along the train tracks surrounded by sweeping mountains and lush greenery is a dream come true. Start your walk from the Ella railway station and pass through the long tunnels and bridges until you come across the towering Nine Arches bridge. It will surely be a 30-minute-long scenic walk that you will never forget.

Must Try Water Sports in Sri Lanka

It is no secret that Sri Lanka is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. If you are looking for something more exciting than just lazing by the beach, here are some thrilling water sports to try while holidaying in this tropical paradise.

Scuba Diving

Home to a host of natural reefs and sunken ships, Sri Lanka is a hotspot for divers. You can choose between dive stations offering easy dives and those offering full PADI certifications. Some of the most famous scuba diving destinations in and around the island may include Unawatuna, Mirissa, Kalpitiya, Trincomalee and Hikkaduwa.

Surfing

The rippling ocean waves in this tropical paradise are ideal for surf lovers. Considered one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka for some fun under the sun, there is no reason to be discouraged if you are still an amateur in the sport, simply because there is a host of places offering surf lessons to level up your skills. With waves that can be surfed all year round, next time you are holidaying on the island, make sure you ride these swelling waves.

Kayaking

With ample rivers, lakes and rainwater tanks scattered across the island, Sri Lanka is one of the best destinations to have a fun kayaking expedition. As you paddle across the river, you are bound to encounter exotic wildlife not to mention plenty of exquisite flora, you have never seen before. Interestingly, if you are staying at a beach resort belonging to the famous chain Amaya resorts & spa, a range of water sports including kayaking expeditions can be easily arranged at your convenience.

White water rafting

As dangerous as it may sound, white water rafting is one of the most exciting watersports to be enjoyed. As long as you are above the age of 10 years and are equipped with all the safety gear, you meet all the requirements to try this watersport. Kithulgala would be one of the best places to try this thrilling sport.