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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.

Diverse Safaris in Zambia That You Can Enjoy – Thrilling Wildlife Encounters Await

From national parks home to exotic wildlife to stunning natural landscapes, Zambia offers much to discover on a safari and the great thing is, you get various adventure-filled options too!

Game Drive Safaris

A great way to explore national parks is while being driven in 4×4 open safari vehicles that take you to the heart of these reserves home to plenty of wildlife. An ideal place for this is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park near The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara; on your game drive, you will get a chance to see white rhinos, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, antelopes and much more.

Canoeing Safaris

Apart from game drive safaris, you can look to enjoy those on water too! For example, for travellers staying at a Livingstone hotel, Victoria Falls is not the only natural attraction to experience here; one can also embark on exciting canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River to spot wildlife and birdlife. Other areas for such escapades include the Kafue and Luangwa rivers as well as various lagoons in the country.

Image via The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

Walking Safaris

For more up-close exploration, certain areas can be toured on a walking safari. As you would expect, such excursions, be it on short trips or longer mobile safaris, are done with highly trained guides. Getting closer to animals will be truly rewarding and unforgettable and places, where you can look forward to such experiences, include the South and North Luangwa and Lochinvar national parks.

Other Safaris

For something different, look to set off on a safari in Zambia on horseback or even atop an elephant! Such excursions are available for those staying at hotels in Livingston close to Victoria Falls. Since the country is a place where one can see over 740 bird species, it has also become a prime destination for bird-watching safaris at spots like the Lower Zambezi and Lochinvar national parks.

Doha Quest

Doha Quest is the newest addition to the list of theme parks in Qatar. The high-tech indoor amusement park includes roller coasters, interactive games, and brightly lit kids’ rides.

Doha skyline from the Marriott Hotel, Qatar | Image by David McKelvey via flickr

Details

Located in Doha Oasis, Doha Quest is the recent most attraction added to the list of attractions in Doha. It is a location that has attractions for everyone, so no one has to stay behind in any hotels in Doha while the others go have fun. Quest is open from Monday to Saturday from 2 in the afternoon to 10 in the night, but it is closed on Sundays.

Highlights

Opened only in 2021, Doha Quest has already made history as it is home to the tallest indoor roller coaster known as EpiQ Coaster and the world’s highest drop water ride, which is known as Magma Blast.

Family attractions

Another speciality about Doha Quest is that it is separated into three different times, the past, the present and the future. The rides and the attractions are dedicated to each of the three themes giving them a story and a unique experience.

Adventures

Not located too far from Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and the city centre, Doha Quest has something for everybody varying from rides, games, food and shopping.

The Towering Jabal Sawda in Saudi Arabia

If you love outdoor adventures and are heading to Saudi Arabia, make time to ascend Jabal Sawda, a well-known mountain that offers much to experience.

Where Is It?

This mountain can be found in the Asir province and is part of the Sarawat Mountain Range overlooking a section of the Red Sea coast. Those planning a visit will find it only around 20 km from the city of Abha; accommodation options here include serviced apartments at properties like Citadines Abha which makes an ideal base for your travels.

Towering to The Skies

This mountain is known to reach an impressive height of over 3,000 metres providing stunning views of the surrounding areas. While certain sources claim it’s the highest mountain in Saudi Arabia, there is some dispute over this with others stating that the title should go to Jabal Ferwa. Either way, you should not miss visiting Jabal Sawda!

The Idyllic Setting

Those who head here can expect a mesmerising setting with juniper trees and other flora creating a lush landscape. Added to this, are the cool climate and refreshing breezes that make it a popular place for locals looking to escape the heat. Right at the top, clouds shroud the peak adding to the sense of enchantment.

Things To Do

Apart from unwinding here amidst the spellbinding natural beauty, you can engage in some captivating things to do as well. Hiking is a popular pastime to enjoy with both easy and challenging paths on offer. It’s also a great spot for having picnics, while shutterbugs will have plenty to photograph at some breathtaking vantage points.

Exploring the Bako National Park in Sarawak

Those who love nature, hiking or wildlife encounters have plenty to look forward to on a visit to the Bako National Park in Sarawak and here’s more on what you need to know.

Getting There

This national park can be found in the Muara Tebas peninsula’s northern part and is around 37 km from the city of Kuching. Those based here in the prime district of Jalan Simpang Tiga at properties like Citadines Uplands Kuching can easily plan an excursion to this site; look to leave a bit early (around 8:00am or before) by bus or taxi to the Bako jetty from where you need to take a shuttle boat (around a 20-minute journey) or book a private charter to the park.

What to Expect

Once you have found accommodation among the places to stay, Kuching excursions to this site will offer plenty to discover. While this is one of the smallest national parks in Southeast Asia, it is blessed with rich biodiversity and has seven varied ecosystems along with diverse wildlife. It’s home to everything from mangroves and grasslands to mixed dipterocarp forest, idyllic beaches and more with different trails on offer too.

Wildlife to Spot

On your visit to Bako National Park, you may spot some of its many animal residents including the hilarious-looking proboscis monkey with its pot belly and large nose! You may also see other primates like silver-leaf monkeys and long-tailed macaques as well as bearded pigs, squirrels and wild boars. Birdwatching enthusiasts have a chance to also catch sight of the ruddy kingfisher, Asian fairy-bluebird, sunda scops owl and many other bird species.

Varied Trails

Amongst the best things to do in Sarawak for those who love trekking is to explore the many trails at this park. In fact, it has 18 trails that are colour-coded and provide both short hikes and those that can be for almost the whole day. Highlights include the Telok Pandan Kecil trail which takes one to a small beach, while the Telok Delima and Telok Paku trails are great for spotting wildlife. For a longer trek, consider the Lintang Loop that takes you to the varied habitats of Bako National Park.

Snorkeling in The Maldives

The Maldives is home to numerous water sports – and snorkelling and surfing are two of the most popular water sports around the year.

snorkeling maldives | Image by Ric Taylor via flickr

Best time to snorkel

Snorkelling is a water sport that will allow you to explore the shallow waters in the sea, and this will enable you to swim with schools of colourful fish, turtles, and sometimes even stingrays. Whilst this is an activity you can do around the year, the best time to go snorkelling in the Maldives is from November to February.

Where to go snorkelling

Male is the most popular place to go snorkelling for locals, but you can also do this at other islands in different atolls. Addu atoll and Lhaviyani atoll are two of the best locations to snorkel when you are in the Maldives.

How to learn

World-class luxurious resorts like the OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, home to a host of Maldives Luxury Villas, have private beaches. If you are willing to learn, there are many schools that teach different water sports. There are shops where you can rent the necessary gear, so you do not have to worry about purchasing goggles and other items.

What to expect

Depending on where you are snorkelling, you can spot sting rays, manta rays, parrotfish, clownfish, blacktip reef sharks, Moorish idols, and a range of other fish.

Solo Travel in Singapore

Singapore is a multicultural city-state and a place where anyone from any part of the world can easily fit in, feeling right at home.

Basile Morin, Skylines of the Central Business District, Singapore at dusk, CC BY-SA 4.0

Blend in with locals

One of the best ways to make sure that you don’t attract attention when travelling solo is to blend in with the locals. Observe the surroundings and watch how they eat, drink and even walk.

Be respectful

If you are staying at Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore or even perhaps at a 1 bedroom serviced apartment in Singapore, there are going to be rules and regulations and even though you might not agree with them it is important to be respectful.

Chinatown

Chinatown is a must-visit location in Singapore especially when you are travelling alone. You will be able to spend time looking at things that interest you and even try out different types of food you find exciting. When in a group, you are not always able to stop and observe each and everything you see.

Little India

Little India is another exciting place to explore. You can not only shop for hours on end but also meet people, interact with them, and even learn new things.

Family Activities on a Beach Trip in Mui Ne, Vietnam – Fun-Filled Experiences for All

A sublime coastal destination, Mui Ne in Vietnam has much to offer families and here are some of the many activities you can enjoy with your loved ones.

Play Games at the Beach

One of the area’s key allures is its scenic shoreline which stretches for around 15 km with plenty of sun-kissed sands to choose from. You can stay at family-friendly properties right by the beach with Anantara Mui Ne Resort which features pool villas and a kids’ club being an ideal choice. Families can enjoy building sandcastles, playing games and sports and spending quality time with each other.

Explore the Sand Dunes

The two areas with sand dunes at this destination are very popular too and amongst the best things to do in Mui Ne with your family is to visit each of them. At the White Sand Dunes, you can enjoy a stunning pristine desert landscape where you can try activities like quad biking or going on hot air balloon rides. Equally impressive are the Red Sand Dunes where you can rent sleds that can be used for a fun ride down the dunes.

Visit the Fairy Stream

Another key attraction to visit with your family is the enchanting Fairy Stream which can be combined with your trip to the Red Sand Dunes. This lovely little stream is set amidst fascinating rock formations that add to the charming setting. The stream is only around ankle-deep, and you can easily wade along it, while if you climb up to the top of the rocks, you can take in some stunning views too.

Take a Trip to the Ke Ga Lighthouse

For family excursions in Mui Ne, you can go on a trip to the Ke Ga Lighthouse which happens to be Southeast Asia’s oldest lighthouse! This site is located on Ke Ga Island and can be reached by boat which lends to the whole adventure. While you won’t be able to go inside the 65-metre-high lighthouse, you can explore the surroundings featuring ancient Su trees, large rocks and an idyllic beach.