caleb | The Adventure Travel Site

Fauna and Flora in Maldives

Tipped to be one of the most pristine archipelagos on the planet, the picturesque collection of islands that is the Maldives is no ordinary tourist attraction in Asia. Blessed with breathtaking landscapes and sunny weather conditions all year round, this honeymooner’s hub is also a diver’s Mecca and a beach lover’s dream come true. Naturalists and nature lovers also have much to discover within the captivating confines of these islets as the archipelago which is made up of more than 1000 islands, offers a diverse marine and land ecology complete with land animals and flora as well as marine fauna and plant life.

With its sandy beaches synonymous with swaying palms and fragrant frangipanis, the plant life in the Maldives boasts attributes that are found in most paradise islands around the world. Swaying coconut trees and palm trees are a permanent fixture while eucalyptus, mango trees, and Pandanus trees are also part of the landscape. More than 20 species of sedge and grass are found here along with forest laden with Terminalia cattappa and Hernandia nymphaeifolia vegetations. Banyan trees, breadfruit trees and the Hibiscus tiliaceus are some of the taller flora species found on the islands that are renowned for its tropical jungles and dense Scaevola serica and Pemphis acidula vegetations.

Wildlife in the Maldives on the other hand includes flying foxes, snakes, garden lizards, and giant fruit bats while the archipelago is also home to more than 100 bird species as well. Highlights include parakeets, seagulls, koel birds, water hens, noddys and herons although what lies beneath the Maldivian islands are decidedly more intriguing that what lies above ground.

A diving expedition is akin to exploring a mammoth aquarium as the crystal clear waters of the islands are home to more than 1,000 fish species. Highlights include whale sharks, manta rays and white-spotted sharks while unicorn fish, Moorish idols, and dolphins are also known to inhabit Maldivian sea beds. Stingrays, flutemouths, rock cods and butterfly fish are also frequently spotted by divers in addition to trumpet fish, angelfish, blue-stripe snappers, parrotfish, turtles and oriental sweetlips. Home to more than 200 varieties of coral, the underwater vegetation in the Maldives is dominated by blue, white and pink corals as well as mushroom corals, stylophoras, giant gorgons and fire corals.

Visitors on the lookout for idyllic Maldives island resorts should look no further than Naladhu Maldives for all their accommodation needs. Offering guests a resplendent rest amid breathtaking surroundings this Maldives hotel is suitable for both holidaymakers and corporate clients.

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.

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Hiking in Doi Pha Tang

Doi Pha Tang is a mountain that is around 160km away from the city of Chiang Rai in Thailand. The mountain is home to several ethnic tribes, including Yao, Chinese Haw and Hmong. Their tribal history goes back to the very emergence of people in Thailand. Most of the tribes have Chinese ancestry; Chinese migrants are believed to have travelled across the borders and settled in Thailand, making it their permanent home. These tribes have preserved their culture and still practice their traditional rituals and cultural activities. You can meet the tribal people and try out some of the local cuisine at the shops and restaurants that are spread across the hilly region. The fruits are definitely the highlight out of the local food and be sure to try Chinese pears; they are juicy and simply delicious. One can also find some preserved fruits such as red cherries and apricots which you can take back home with you.

Doi Pha Tang also provides spectacular views of Thailand and Laos. From the mountain you can see the boundary of Thailand which merges with Laos. The best time to go hiking in Doi Pha Tang is during December and January. The Sakura trees are in full bloom at the end of each year and pathways covered in pink like floss makes it an ethereal experience. The temperature is always cool in Doi Pha Tang, but it gets a bit colder during winter.

Doi Pha Tang is a great place to relax and enjoy the wonders of nature. On your hiking trip try and take a pair of binoculars with you and do not forget to bring along your camera too. One can then explore all the details in this region; from the top you can see the Mekong River passing by and look at the greenery guarding the Laos border. It is best to search for Chiang Rai hotels to stay in when you visit Don Pha Tang. For luxurious rooms and great service check out Anantara Golden Triangle Thailand which is a hotel Chiang Rai that offers a luxurious base from which to set off on your many adventures and excursions.

White Water Rafting in Kitulgala

Colombo, Sri Lanka is a wonderful place and with a vibrancy like no other. Being an island you can travel to the ‘interior’ and down south area in a short time and get back. One such place that should be a priority for you is Kitulgala. Located just about 80 kilometres from the city of Colombo, this beautiful area runs into the world famous town of Nuwara Eliya. A famous thing to do in Kitulgala is to check out the palm trees from whose sap a local sweet known as ‘jaggery’ is produced.

Yet, the town of Kitulgala is famous for something even more exiting; there is more to the town that just ‘Kitul trees’ since it is also the island’s white-water rafting haven. The entire experience takes place on the Kelani River in Kitulgala. You can white-water raft for over five kilometres and tours are generally arranged for one hour to half a day, depending on your preference.

The best three months of the year for white water rafting are at the beginning, with February being a favourite. There are also different types of white-water rafting such as black rafting too. This is where you would go in the night time, adding that much more excitement to your journey. Equipped with head lights and all the necessary safety gear, this is a must try for the more experienced rafters out there.

Kitulgala is also a nice place to relax and enjoy some bird watching too. There are some species here that cannot be found anywhere on the island. You can catch a glimpse of the spot-winged Thrush and many other types of birds as well.

While in the town of Kitulgala, visit the locations where the Academy award winning film, ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’ was filmed. The foundations of the bridge remain to this day. When planning a trip to this wonderful town, check out the many tours to Sri Lanka and make sure you get good Holiday in Sri Lanka tour packages such as those offered by Sri Lankan Dreams. It provides truly fascinating sightseeing tours that take you to some of the country’s most well known landmarks and attractions.

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+

Diving in Negombo

While Negombo offers an idyllic escape along the west coast of Sri Lanka, this laidback haven by the sea is also a great spot from which to embark on an exciting diving expedition. Before setting off on such excursions, make sure to find suitable accommodation at one of the Negombo Sri Lanka hotels in the region. A perfect base for your travels, Hotel J is one such hotel in Negombo which is an ideal starting point to your diving adventures.

December through April is generally considered the best period for diving off the island’s West Coast. When in Negombo there are several sites worth considering when it comes to diving such as Hanova where one can find a range of marine species including sweetlips, cuttlefish, snappers and groupers. Lionfish, star fish and sting rays can be seen at Barracuda Point, while not to be missed is a chance to explore the shipwreck that can also be reached from Negombo’s coast. Those in search of more underwater adventure can head to the area known as the “Third Reef”; located further out to sea, it is a great spot to catch sight of a variety of rays including the marble ray.

Deep Sea Fishing in Bentota

While the sun drenched coastal locale of Bentota, Sri Lanka is known as being one of the best places on the island for exciting water sports, those in search of more relaxed fun on the water which is no less thrilling can consider deep sea fishing. Before heading out to sea look to find accommodation at a Bentota hotel or resort that lets you easily explore this charming coastal area. Located near the beach, AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa is one such Bentota resort that lets you enjoy a range of water sports too.

Those who love the challenge and excitement of catching fish can try their hand at deep sea fishing. Boats generally leave early in the mornings and excursions can sometimes go on for 4 to 5 hours. Part of the fun is lying in wait for something to tug at your bait; while you may enjoy a time of relaxation till then, be ready for quite a tussle as you try reel in your catch! Those planning to go deep sea fishing in Bentota have the chance to catch such species as barracuda, wahoo, jack fish, tuna and snappers and such excursions provide an unforgettable adventure at sea.

Wild Wadi Water Park

The emirate of Dubai is one which blends old world charm with modern development, offering a truly stunning oasis in the desert. This cosmopolitan city has a rich heritage as well and makes for an ideal destination for a family holiday. There is much to see and do here, and if you are looking to spend some fun family time with the kids then a visit to the Wild Wadi Water Park is definitely worth doing.

Located across from the Burj Al Arab, this expansive water park in the Jumeirah area offers a stunning array of attractions that provide plenty of excitement for young and old alike. Based on the story of “Juha” who is known in Arabian folklore, the Wild Wadi Water Park has 30 rides catering to those looking for some adrenaline pumping thrills to visitors in search of more relaxed water based fun.

Master Blasters are “not to be missed” rides which gives you the chance to enjoy the thrills of a water rollercoaster! With names such as Flying Falls, Thunder Rapids, the Tunnel of Doom and Falcon Fury, each Master Blaster provides an action packed ride that one will not soon forget. For more fast paced action make sure to try Tantrum Alley with its downhill waterslides and tornado sections and the Jumeirah Sceirah which features tandem slides that take you on an exhilarating ride that reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h!

Those who love water sports can head to the Wipeout & Riptide section where one can try body-boarding or knee-boarding on artificial waves, while Breaker’s Bay which is home to the Middle East’s biggest wave pool is also a great spot to have some fun in the surf. For a more laidback ride, try Juha’s Journey which takes one on a carefree ride along a lazy river which measures around 360 metres in length. Parents with small kids can head to Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon where younger visitors can have plenty of fun with the water guns and racing slides on offer.

Travellers to the region in search of accommodation in Dubai within easy reach of Wild Wadi Water Park can stay at Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. This Jumeirah beach hotel can be found on the famed Palm Jumeirah and provides an ideal base from which to set off on your many adventures in Dubai.

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.

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Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park, which is in the catchment of the Minneriya reservoir built in the 3rd century CE, is synonymous with the Sri Lanka elephant ever since it was observed that a large number of them congregate here to graze during the dry season. This event has been identified as the largest seasonally recurring wildlife phenomenon in the country. The importance of the area around the Minneriya reservoir to wildlife was recognized as far back as 1938 when it was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary. In 1997 it was upgraded to a Wildlife Park.

Other than the elephants the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including the Sri Lanka leopard, the Sri Lanka sloth bear, the purple faced langur, the toque macaque, two species of deer and the gray slender loris that are among the 26 species of mammals, both large and small that are found here. The park has also been identified as an important bird area in Sri Lanka with 160 species of birds being spotted around the reservoir. They range from large populations of water birds to migrants and residents and include flocks of pelicans, jungle fowl, cormorants, grey herons, babblers, parrots and bulbuls among others.

Pythons, water monitors and crocodiles are among the 25 species of reptiles that inhabit the park. The park’s other denizen’s include nine species of amphibians, 26 species of fish and 75 species of butterflies.

However the other wildlife pales in comparison to the elephants that can be easily spotted and are in a large group. The ‘Gathering’ as the congregation of elephants here is now called, are elephant herds from Matale, Trincomalee and Polonnaruwa districts that come to graze on the succulent grasses and enjoy the water of the reservoir from mid July till end October. The elephants usually come out of the surrounding jungle in the cool of the evening and it is indeed one of the most amazing sights to see them trickle out until they form into quite a large herd said to number 400 sometimes. This is a rare opportunity to observe them in the wild and in endearing family groups.

Whether it is viewing elephants or any other wild life, the natural beauty of the park is part of the amazing experience at Minneriya National Park.

Stay at Hotel Sigiriya in the shadow of one of Sri Lanka’s famous cultural sites and in the heart of the dry zone, home to many of the country’s wildlife. This prominent hotel in Sigiriya provides guests with spacious, comfortable accommodation and a host of modern facilities and amenities including relaxing Ayurveda spa treatments that make a stay here enjoyable. Stay at such conveniently located hotels Sigiriya to have unforgettable cultural and nature experiences.

Hokianga Horse Trekking

The scenery in New Zealand has often been described as breathtaking, tranquil and a haven for nature lovers. There is always so much to do in this country because it is an expansive area and there is a lot to explore. One of the best ways to see the countryside is to take up a challenge and go on a horse trekking venture in the wilderness. Hokianga in New Zealand is a three hour car ride from Auckland. The area is known as the northland and is home to a spectacular forest called Waipoua Kauri. Historically the place was occupied by the Maori people, the indigenous tribes of New Zealand.

Most Maori people trace their ancestry back to Hokianga, thus the location is considered to be the birthplace of the nation. There is an ancient harbour that can be seen when you visit here and the large forest areas are also something to look forward to. Even if you have never attempted horse riding, Hokianga would be a good place to start. There are several horse trekking packages available for beginners to advanced horse riders.

Most of the tracks follow through the forest where you can take a look at the lush vegetation in this region. Giant trees which are over a thousand years old still survive here. There are waterfalls and streams and the forest is home to a plethora of different animal and plant species. While trekking through this area you will also discover the earliest European settlements such as Rawene and Clendon house. Horeke, another European settlement was an ancient ship building town which you will see when you visit. The coastal landscape is part of the trekking venture and riders will encounter the ancient Hokianga harbour too.

If you are in the mood for an outdoor adventure take a stab at horse trekking in Hokianga. There are a lot of sights to view in this region and horse riding is by far the best mode of transport for see these stunning sights.

When on holiday look for New Zealand hotels that are in proximity to the country’s many attractions. For visitors who especially want to make a trip to go horse riding look for Hokianga Hotels. For a luxurious abode and comforting atmosphere check out the properties belonging to Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ in such locations as Auckland and Hokianga.

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.

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Diving For Kids in Maldives

While snorkelling offers a great way to explore the marine life filled waters that surround the Maldives, diving provides more in depth exploration that gives one a truly unique perspective. This fun activity is not only limited to adults however, as diving courses for kids lets young adventurers get a taste of this thrilling water sport. Families in search of a Maldives resort that offers such courses can consider staying at Velassaru Maldives. This luxurious Maldives island hotel also features a wide range of other water sports ensuring that you can spend fun filled days in the sun and the surf.

Diving for kids in Maldives is a wonderfully opportunity for children to explore relatively shallow waters and observe the fascinating coral and fish life here. It is easy to find centres that provide PADI Junior Open Water Courses which are usually for children around 10 years of age and over. Generally such courses provide certification for dives of about 12 metres and is a great way to introduce kids to diving. With the crystal clear Indian Ocean waters providing great visibility, families can enjoy an enthralling journey of discovery as they go diving together.

Biking in Hoi An

Set amidst historic sites and a picturesque countryside, the ancient city of Hoi An in Vietnam is a wonderful destination to explore by bike. Before embarking on your pedal powered adventures however, look to find a centrally located Hoi An hotel from which you can easily access the city. Anantara Hoi An Resort is an accommodation option worth considering and is a well placed Hoi An spa resort that is ideally positioned along the Thu Bon River banks.

The Hoi An countryside is a great place to explore by bike and the ancient pagodas, quaint villages and scenic rice fields you will come across on your journey of discovery, offer a unique insight into the region’s rich heritage. Bike tours are available and not only offer the needed gear, but guides as well who will take you to some of the best areas that can be seen by bike. Part of the fun is cycling to local villages where you can stop and mingle with locals, shop at a market and just enjoy a laidback way of life.