Sri Lanka Travel Guide Itinerary

The teardrop-shaped island that floats in the vast Indian Ocean is a haven of tropical bliss. The country owns a rich culture coming from the variety of ethnic groups that make up the population. Apart from the gorgeous beaches, there is much to see and do on this small island.

Sri Lankan Leopard – Yala National Park | Img by: Thimindu Goonatillake via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Explore the Kandyan Kingdom

This is the last of the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka and is the second biggest city on the island. One of the must visit in Kandy would be the Dalada Maligawa also called the Temple of the Tooth Relic which charms visitors with the essence of the Kandyan culture. What’s more, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens which is a great place for a chilled time out.

The Lion Rock

More commonly known as Sigiriya Rock, the humongous boulder is now a World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular sought-after places in Sri Lanka. Climbing up is quite a thrilling experience. A few dozen steps to the top, you will see the queer Sigiriya frescoes and the mirror wall. Once you reach the top you will have the most beautiful panoramic view of the area. Another rock you might like climbing is a short distance away from Sigiriya Rock and is called Pidurangala.

Nuwara Eliya

This is the city with the coolest climate in Sri Lanka, located in the hill country. The best way to get here is by train observing the scenic views that you pass by. There are tea factories situated in this area, therefore the surroundings are filled with neatly arranged terraces of tea. Here and there you may spot a few tea pluckers carrying big baskets on their backs.

Yala National Park

Find rich wildlife in Yala National Park. Monkeys, elephants and sloth bears are some of the animals that can be observed in this nature reserve. However, the magnificent leopard species that is indigenous to Sri Lanka is the most amazing of them all. It is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in Sri Lanka. Hotels with good facilities, such as properties of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts are available for a very comfortable stay.

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

Why Renting a Car is better than Traveling by Taxi

There’s a great deal of freedom when it comes to driving oneself. Not everyone might feel the same way, and sometimes having a vehicle with or without a driver, a good one at least, can make life much easier.

Look Cool and Professional

There’s definitely a sense of prestige about driving around, and it’ll definitely add a bit of status to your entrance. If you rent one that is chauffeur-driven, the cars are generally classier models as well, from brands such as Mercedes Benz or BMW.

Time

Anyone who drives would be intimately acquainted with the hassle that involves procuring a parking space. If you’re late for a meeting or date, finding a parking space would add an extra 10-15 minutes. But, driving yourself also means you can leave earlier, and not wait for the taxi to find the way to your pick-up location.

Convenience

If you’re going on a trip to say, Sri Lanka, there are many services where you can take care of car rental. Sri Lanka is a place with some serious traffic, which is more reason to utilise an entity like Casons Rent a Car Sri Lanka.

Local Knowledge

Probably the best advantage of having a driver or driving yourself around is the fact that you will get to know the entire area and would easily take navigate yourself anywhere you’d be interested in visiting. Having a car and GPS means that your chances of getting lost and losing precious time are minimal.

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

Adventures in Praslin

Praslin is one most beautiful island in Seychelles that features pristine white sand beaches and crystal blue waters. Apart from indulging in its natural splendour, the island of Praslin also offers its guests a myriad of fun activities to engage in. Read on to know more about this wondrous island and the things you can do here

Aerial View from Praslin, Image by Marco Verch via Flickr (CC By 2.0)

The Island

Being the second largest island in the archipelago of Seychelles, Praslin is located 44 kilometres northeast of Mahe. The island has a lot of tempting destinations; serene and calm beach resorts, and so much more.

Snorkelling and diving

The oceans surrounding the island of Praslin is crystal clear and very clean and it is also home to a number of reefs that accommodate a diverse range of sea life which makes it ideal for snorkelling. There are also many dive spots scattered in the ocean surrounding Praslin where you can see and swim along with turtles, reef fish and even dolphins

Surfing

Anse Lazio beach of Praslin is very famous among surfers and the waves here are ideal for amateur surfers who are trying to improve their surfing skills.

Exploring the wilderness

The islands of Praslin is home to a small rainforest that has small waterfalls and scenic places that a worth a visit you can also see some of the rarest birds and small animals here.

Other activities and accommodations

Game fishing, boat riding, island skipping are some of the other things you can do during your stay at this paradise island. Apart from all the adventures, this is a place to forget all your problems and to unwind and relax. You can find a number of accommodations across the island which offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere to indulge in. The Berjaya Praslin Resort, for example, is a good accommodation option and a renowned Seychelles resort.

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

Taking a Stroll Down Lee Tung Avenue

Lee Tung Avenue is one of the most famous streets in Hong Kong and is now famed throughout the world as a centre for luxury shopping and housing. Its transformation, however, was quite controversial.

Lee Tung Avenue | Image Credit - Wing1990hk, CC BY 3.0 Via Wikimedia Commons — Lee Tung Avenue | Image Credit – Wing1990hk, CC BY 3.0 Via Wikimedia Commons

Background

The street was initially famous for housing a wide selection of printing presses. At one point the Hong Kong Times as well as Ta Kung Pao, the oldest active Chinese newspaper, were headquartered here.

Transformation

As part of a project by the Urban Renewal Authority of Hong Kong, there was radical construction to transform the street into what it is today. This resulted in a multitude of evictions and to this day many of the tenants have not been resettled, although they were compensated greatly.

I Like You

One of the most interesting incidents involving this road was its name change to ‘Avenue Walk’, with the Chinese name being ‘I Like You’. This caused a massive spectacle and uproar, with one shop owner naming their store ‘Avenue Lane Lou Mei’, which translates to ‘I Like Yo Momma’.

Lee Tung Avenue

Eventually, the original name of the street was reinstated. The street showcases a beautiful ambience that retains a very Chinese feel. If you find yourself at a nearby Wan Chai hotel the likes of Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong, then a walk through this lane is essential!

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

Google+

Visit the AO Vertical Artspace in Wan Chai

The Asian One Vertical Art Space is a unique platform which showcases the work of local and international artists in a special ”staircase” setting.

Image Credit - Almond Chu Via Wikipedia — Image Credit – Almond Chu Via Wikipedia

The Museum

The Vertical Art Space was first established in May 2012. An avid supporter of the local art community, it’s one of the most unique art galleries in the whole of Hong Kong. Artwork and photography are showcased in a ”staircase” setting which stretches over ten flights of stairs.

The Collections

The stairwells house a collection consisting of over 100 works of art including sculptures, paintings and photographs of 28 artists and more, mainly from Hong Kong and China such as Jeani Leung and Chun Wai.

How to Get There

The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., throughout Monday to Saturday, and is located in the Photo Book Centre, 1-14th floors, Asia One Tower, 8 Fung Yip Street. The gallery can be reached easily from a 4 star hotel in Hong Kong including the likes of Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong. If one is taking the MTR, from Chai Wan, the 47m will stop directly in front of the bookshop.

Things to Do

Apart from taking in the art, one can also visit the bookshop on the ground floor which offers a wide selection of books on art. However, it is only open by appointment so it’s best to call ahead before visiting.

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

Google+

Greatest Experiences You Must Try in the Beautiful Tioman Island

Sandy beaches, azure blue waters, and lush rainforests await you on Timon Island, one of the most famous holiday destinations in the world. Read on to find out about the best activities to do while there.

Tioman Island| Img by: _paVan_ via Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Swimming

The island is home to some stunning beaches such as Juara and Salang beach which in turn lays claim to crystal clear warm waters in which visitors can swim freely.

Diving

Timon has been featured extensively as one of the best places to dive in the world. It’s home to some spectacular reefs and dive spots such as Tiger reefs and Renggis island which attracts divers of various calibre from all over the world.

Nature Walks

Trails dominate the island and provide visitors, the perfect opportunity to explore the lush isle at their own pace. Going on a hike to the Asah waterfall or exploring the vicinity of the dormant volcano, Gunung Kajang will prove quite interesting.

Dining

Malaysian cuisine is famous for its rich fusion of Chinese, Indian and Indonesian flavours among a plethora of others, and the dining options on Timon Island will not disappoint. While there are plenty of small beach side restaurants serving great food, one can head over to a hotel on Timon Island including the likes of Berjaya Tioman Resort, for a more varied spread featuring international favorites along with traditional favourites.

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

Cycling Excursions in Bangkok’s ”Green Lung ”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiBYIiyBDyh/?tagged=bangkrachao

Known as the Green Lung or the Jungle of Bangkok, Bangkracho is a small peninsula famous for its lush tropical vegetation and laid-back village atmosphere.

How to Get There

According to the Travel Bangkok Now blog the Green Lung is easy to find given the lack of people, and cars. You can hop on the BTS and make your way to Phrom Phong. From there, visitors can get a tuk-tuk to Khlong Toei Port and board the ferry, to begin their Bangkok adventures.

Rent a Bike & Get Going

Once you alight from the ferry you will be faced with a bustling hub where you can rent bikes, maps and buy bottled water. While not exactly the sportiest of bikes, they feature baskets in the front for storing things and are steady enough to navigate the winding paths.

What to see

Places to see include the Siamese Fighting Fish Gallery, The Sri Nakhon Khuean Khan Park as well as the Botanical Garden. Perusing a Bangkok travel guide will inform you which temples and shrines to explore however one that stands out is, on Soi Petchahueng 57 right next to the mighty Chao Phraya River.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh_hECrnDzI/?tagged=bangkrachao

Where to stay

While there are no big resorts and luxury hotels in this area there are small-scale guest houses to choose from for reasonable prices. The area also is home to several roadside restaurants which serve some great food.

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

Mt. Tengu

The Mt. Tengu sits at a breathtaking the height of 532.4 meters above sea level and happens to a be quite a famous place known for offering spectacular views of Otaru city and the Ishikiri Bay.

How to Get There

The mountain can be reached through a ropeway which will take around 4 minutes from the base of the mountain to the observatory point on top. For those who wish to take an alternative mode of transport, driving and hiking too are possible.

Things to See

Apart from providing some stunning views of the picturesque town of Otaru and the beautiful bay beyond, the summit has a seasonal chipmunk park, a shrine and a ski museum to see. There is also an interesting display hall with a Tengu Goblin mask which people touch to have a wish come true.

Things to Do

For those with a sense of adventure, there is hiking course to make use of and a restaurant/ shop to get a bite to eat and maybe a couple of souvenirs while enjoying the beautiful views.

Mt. Tengu in Winter

During winter Mt. Tengue transforms into a ski slope, where many snowboarding and skiing enthusiasts flock for some fun in the snow. With 6 ski courses and 3 ski lifts being installed annually, the place is quite a popular spot for tourists. The winter wonderland can easily be accessed by many an Otaru hotel near Jr. Station including the likes of Grand Park Otaru.

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

Google+

Exploring Brisbane

Sunny Brisbane is home to sandy beaches, scenic mountains and a stylish CBD. Enjoy rock climbing, views off of Story Bridge, river tours, verdant parklands and mind-blowing entertainment.

Moreton Island| Img by: brewbooks via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Discover Brisbane City

A cosmopolitan city by every definition Australia’s third largest city Brisbane enjoys warm weather conditions for most of the year. There’s a myriad of hotels in Brisbane city centre the likes of Oaks Lexicon Apartments which gives close access to many iconic attractions such as Botanic Gardens, Chinatown and Cathedral Square.

Explore Brisbane Story Bridge

Renowned to offer the best views of the city climbing the Brisbane Story Bridge is a favourite activity among seasoned visitors to the city. As one of only three overpasses around the globe that can be climbed the Brisbane Story Bridge offers climbing excursions at dawn, daytime, twilight and in the veil of night.

Tour South Bank

Home to a manmade beach, sprawling parks, quaint cafes and fine restaurants South Bank is ideal for family-friendly activities of every conceivable nature. From azure lagoons to The Suncorp Piazza with its movie theatres and entertainment options, there’s plenty to do in this relaxed corner of Brisbane.

Explore Moreton Island

As one of the most popular day trips available from Brisbane a day at the beaches of Moreton Island is a must for all visitors. This stunning lagoon offers a range of water based activities such as snorkeling, cruises and four wheel drive tours.

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+

Exploring the city of Kandy

Kandy, the hill city of Sri Lanka, is known for its religious significance due to the presence of Temple of Tooth. However, there is much more to this city, if you dare to venture off the beaten path.

Udawaththa Kele | Image Credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Nyanatusita">Nyanatusita</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Udawattakele_Forest_scene_4.jpg">Udawattakele Forest scene 4</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> — Udawaththa Kele | Image Credit: Nyanatusita, Udawattakele Forest scene 4, CC BY-SA 3.0

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Declared a nature sanctuary in 1938, Udawatta Kele – meaning Udawatta Forest – is not a highly visited destination among the tourists. However, it presents a mystique aura and has multiple treks and trails where one can stroll through and enjoy the lushness that surrounds them.

Trekking

There are many trekking trails around Kandy both historic and scenic. They are definitely worthwhile exploring and travellers should base themselves in a place like Mahaweli Reach Hotel and spare a day or two to enjoy pristine areas not too far from the city.

City’s colonial past

A neo-gothic 19th century Anglican Church, a Victorian fountain, the 19th century Garrison Cemetery near the old palace, the WWI and WWII Commonwealth War Cemetery on Deveni Rajasinge Mw by the Mahaweli River are the remains from the city’s colonial past.

Peradeniya Botanic Garden

In Kandy, things to do are plenty. Devoting a whole morning to visiting the Peradeniya Botanic Garden, one of best such facilities in the region, will not be wasted as there is much to see besides enjoying its beautiful surroundings. Stroll around the picturesque 200-year-old Kandy Lake in the evening and walk along shaded paths in Udawatte Kele, the historic forest reserve overlooking the Temple of the Tooth.

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