Author: Caliope Sage

Boat Riding In Madu River

“Believe me, my young friend, there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”
-The Water Rat, The Wind in the Willows

Want to “mess about in boats” like the water rat? Then Sri Lanka is the perfect country for you to holiday in. This little teardrop of a nation has a multitude of freshwater veins running from its lush mountains to its sunny beaches. From all these rivers there is one that is just ideal for pleasuring, exploring and simply ‘messing about’ and that is the bubbling, beautiful Madu River.
Located in the South West of Sri Lanka, the Madu or ‘Maduganga’ River falls into the sea at Balapitiya. Calling home to this majestic shallow water body are 303 species of plants belonging to 95 families and to 248 species of vertebrate animals. Unfortunately, this precious river might be one of the last remaining tracts of pristine mangrove forests in Sri Lanka. The Madu River offers plenty of excursions such as fishing, white water rafting, swimming (in areas that are marked safe- the river is home to crocodiles too :P) , and exploring the mangroves rich in bio-diversity. If you’re the adventurous type you can also go on riverside adventures and camping. But, if you’re not that keen on spending the nights on a river bank, don’t worry there are plenty of accommodation options around. Take the River House Balapitiya for example. This boutique hotel in Sri Lanka is situated just by the river banks and guess what, they also offer kayaking and boat rides, so that’s killing two birds with one stone!
So make sure to tick off ‘exploring Madu River’ from your list of things to do in Sri Lanka. Your respect for this majestic river will increase once you learn that the Buddhist Amarapura Nikaya sector decided to have its first higher ordination ceremony on a fleet of boats anchored upon the Madu River in 1803.

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Boat Riding In Madu River, Image Credit:{srilankanexpeditions}

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+

Safaris in Yala

Often regarded as Sri Lanka’s most popular safari hotspot the Yala National Park is no ordinary wildlife sanctuary in the island nation. Offering visitors a glimpse of some of the tropical country’s most coveted wildlife inhabitants and its most breathtaking natural surroundings, a safari experience is a must for all visitors based in properties along the South Coast such as Cantaloupe Hotels. Organizing a safari in Yala Sri Lanka is as simple as finding a local tour operator and selecting a safari package while resorts and hotels in the area and the national park itself offer safari experiences to suit every type of traveller and budget.

As the second most expansive national park in the country, the Yala National Park is spread out over 97,880 hectares. Divided in to five blocks, two blocks are open to visitors and have been named the Kumana National Park and the Ruhuna National Park. Having been declared a wildlife sanctuary as early as 1900, the park is famed as the best venue to spot Sri Lankan Leopards and elephants in the wild.
Home to countless herds of elephants, the gentle giants will not be the only mammals safari-goers spot on an outbound excursion in Yala. Housing around 44 species of mammals, the park also boasts the highest density of leopards on the planet. Other frequently spotted animals on a safari encounter in Yala include wild water buffalos, Sri Lankan Sloth Bears and golden palm civets. The red slender loris, toque macaques and fishing cats are among the top wildlife inhabits occupying Yala.
The sanctuary is also home to a whopping 215 species of birds, most of which occupy the designated bird park in Yala known as the Kumana National Park. Some of Yala’s most prized birdlife varieties include the brown-capped babbler and Indian paradise flycatcher while the black-headed ibis and crimson-fronted barbets are also popular bird species occupying Yala. Creepy crawlies large and small are also the pride of the national park which provides a verdant home for 47 species of reptiles including an equal number of endemic species. Safari excursions in Yala can be booked in the form of morning tours or after dark safaris for spotting nocturnal inhabitants of the parkland.

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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+

Zipline Canopy Adventures in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is possibly the largest and most culturally noteworthy city in Northern Thailand. It is the capital city of the region. It is located about 700km from Bangkok, and is packed with rainforests, hilltops and ancient monasteries, making it one of the popular destinations in the country.

When travelling to Northern Thailand, of the variety of hotels in Chiang Mai, consider staying at the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa, to be placed close to the city’s attractions.

Besides its cultural heritage, Chiang Mai is renowned for its zipline canopy adventures. Connecting the tall treetops of the mysterious Mae Takhrai Park is the multi award winning Chiang Mai zipline canopy adventure tour. Named the “Flight of the Gibbons”, on this adventure, you get to experience the adrenaline rush induced by covering over 7km of ziplines. Asia’s longest single ‘flight’ (800m) is a key highlight here, offering travellers amazing views of the Mae Taeng River. Of the 33 stations, some reach over 70m from ground level, giving you the ultimate thrill as you soar through observing gibbons and other wild creatures in their natural habitats.

Just outside the city centre is the Chiang Mai Eagle track zipline that is located between three hill tribe villages. With over 35 platforms and 16 ziplines, the Eagle Track is very popular among thrill-seekers.

Zipline tours usually cost between 1,500 to 4,000 Thailand Bhats, depending on the intensity of the adventure and when you book them. The best part is these adventures also include visits to tribal villages. To make the adventure a more rounded one, you can even include options such as white water rafting, cycling, kayaking and rock climbing.

These adventures are all conducted without hindrance to the forestry, thus making them eco-friendly and sustainable.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.
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Be adventurous with White Water Rafting in Chiang Mai, Thailand

There are few cities in Thailand which are as culturally and historically significant as the ancient city of Chiang Mai. Formerly the seat of the Lan Na Kingdom in the 12th Century, Chiang Mai is home to some of Thailand’s most iconic temples, such as the Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and Wat Chet Yot. In addition to its rich culture and heritage, Chiang Mai also hosts numerous festivals and has many recreational attractions, making it a great tourist destination. A hotel that conveniently lets you engage in all the top things to do in Chiang Mai is the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa.

Chiang Mai is not just about nature and historic sites. The city is actually a hit with adventure lovers owing to its dense forests and hilly terrain. But the biggest adventure activity in Chiang Mai is white water rafting. Chiang Mai boasts streams known for the thrilling rapids and torrents making it one of Southeast Asia’s best white water rafting destinations. So if you are an adventure junkie and would like to ride the rapids of one of the most exotic locations in the world, head over to Chiang Mai!

The best river for white water rafting is the Mae Tang River, and during the months of July through March the river is brimming with water. Thus, during this period the river is ideal for engaging in some thrilling and exciting white water rafting. The Mae Tang River boasts a number of rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV, making these rapids the best thing a white water rafting enthusiast can ask for. As you ride and paddle through the river you will also be able to enjoy the timeless and breath taking beauty of the nature and scenery of Chiang Mai. The area is filled with many adventure sports centers that will give you international standard equipment, so don’t be afraid to ride the wild Mae Tang River.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Bird Handling

Falcons have been used as a hunting weapon by the Bedouins in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert region for centuries. Taking falcons out into the desert on hunting expeditions lasting several days was how rulers kept in touch with tribes at one time. Although they are not used for practical purposes anymore, falconry is now a popular sport in the Liwa desert although using them to hunt wildlife is restricted. Sporting birds are taken out into the desert each day as they have to be flown and trained daily. The main species of falcon being used for sport are the saker and the peregrine. One of popular luxury hotels Abu Dhabi, Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers a selection of desert based leisure activities that include falconry.

The bird’s eyes are covered with a hood during the acclimatization process to keep it calm. Out in the desert when the hoods are removed the birds soar up into the air reveling in the wide open spaces. A GPS transmitter attached to their tail feathers keep track of movements. The falcons are capable of flying at 200 miles an hour and are efficient hunters in open terrain. Training comprises of the bird’s handler whirling a feathered, baited lure until the falcon dives for it. When the bird catches the lure it receives a reward. Later the falcon is trained to dive on a live prey. This time the handler lures it away before it can get its talons into the prey, getting the bird used to not killing the prey immediately. When the sun goes down over the desert, it is time for the falcons to go back to their roost. At the end of the sporting season some falconers release the birds into the wild after embedding a micro chip for identification. The capturing and training of falcons need patience, skill and even bravery as they are dangerous raptors. They have to be trained for months before they can be used for sport.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Wellness Journeys in Bali, a delightful & rejuvenating experience

An ever increasing number of travellers seeking to rejuvenate their health and their lives are choosing to undertake wellness journeys. By doing so participants will be able to enjoy a selection of health-giving spa treatments combined with pleasant relaxed travel to local sites of interest, all in a spirit of spiritual contentment and rejuvenation. The Indonesian island of Bali has consolidated a strong reputation for being a premier venue for such wellness programmes, as it offers a pleasant climate, a tradition of tranquillity and serenity as well as a multitude of interesting sightseeing attractions. Above all Bali offers a laidback ambience that is ideal for the visitor in search of peace and comfort.

If you are interested in visiting the island and are seeking a quality resort in Bali that has its own luxurious spa there are some excellent options available. Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort & Spa is such an option and offers a wealth of treatments and therapies to bring about holistic healing.

Bali is a truly beautiful and magical tropical island and many parts of this alluring paradise have retained their pristine charms, presenting an environment far removed from the hectic hustle and bustle of the urban lifestyle. There is no better venue for a comprehensive wellness programme.

The opportunities at this alluring island truly seem to be endless. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage in a yoga session at the break of dawn, with mystical age-old temples as a backdrop. Visitors can take the opportunity to experience a therapeutic massage on the sandy beaches, with the shimmering ocean waters murmuring in the background. Where else would you have the opportunity to practice walking meditation across verdant rice paddy fields?

If on the other hand you are a water sports lover, you will have the chance to indulge in your favoured leisure pursuits, such as surfing on the local waters. In Bali there are opportunities to be found nowhere else in the world, such as experiencing the hereditary healing arts known as Djamoe, which has been passed down through the generations. You will also find modern state of the art spas with all the modern facilities that you may require. Your visit to Bali is sure to be the experience of a lifetime.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Explore Dhangethi Island in Maldives

The Island of Dhangeethi is one of the few inhabited Islands in the Alif Dhaal atoll. With a population of around 1200 people, Dhangeethi is a thriving city that houses schools, Health Centers and even a football court. There is much to see for tourists visiting Dhangeethi. In addition to the beautiful beaches in the island, Dhangeethi is adorned with rich culture. Crafts and fishing are the common modes of income for the residents living in the island. Visitors can be a part of the local way of life by observing and even sometimes trying out some of the interesting day to day activities found here.

The Dangeethi Island which can be easily accessed by taking a day trip from Maafushivaru Maldives, is home to the only cultural center in all of Maldives. The traditional Maldivian boats called Dhonis are built in Dangeethi in a big way. While you tour this island walk by these workshops and learn the art of building a Dhoni. Snorkeling is another popular activity in Dangeethi. In fact there is an interesting activity called the Whale shark Trip at the Atoll Beach Inn. Here you get to hop into a traditional Dhoni and sail to a whale shark spot. Once you are there you can actually experience snorkeling with Whale sharks! Swimming with Manta Rays is another exciting adrenaline pumping activity. Manta Rays are found in abundance in the Dangeethi waters and here too you can start your adventure by snorkeling close to the shore and then move up close towards these giant mysterious creatures. Apart from all these exciting adventures, Dangeethi offers several beautiful spots perfect for the ultimate relaxation. If you are keen on spending some romantic time with your lover, Dangeethi offers several nearby locations where you can enjoy a Sand bank picnic with nothing but the azure sky above you and the turquoise ocean around you.

One aspect of holidaying in Maldives is experiencing its beautiful hotels and resorts of which Maldives has plenty. Depending on your budget there is luxury of all levels. Some hotels even go to the extent of providing underwater rooms and restaurants. Choose a Maldives all inclusive hotel to make the most of your holiday in the region.

Abra Boat Ride, a delightful excursion

In recent years the Emirate of Abu Dhabi has made a name for itself as a significant tourist destination. Fast developing into a cosmopolitan and forward-thinking city, Abu Dhabi attracts considerable numbers of corporate and cultural visitors in addition to the numerous expatriates who are based in the city. To really discover the spirit of this remarkable and alluring city the visitor should venture into its less modern, more traditional localities. One interesting experience all visitors to the city should not fail to try out is taking a ride on an abra, which is the name given to small vessels which are used as water taxis.

Before embarking on an abra boat ride make sure to find a suitable base from which to set off on your excursions. A great option would be to stay at Abu Dhabi beach hotels such as Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara which offers quality accommodations and courteous hospitality assuring a pleasurable stay.

To sample this traditional means of transport you must travel to Qaryat Al Beri where you may try out this form of transport which has survived over the course of many years. On the abra route the vessel will stop at an attractive market or suq where the visitor will find attractive merchandise of varying kinds.

Abu Dhabi is always a fascinating metropolis to explore, featuring attractive parks and gardens, appealing greenery-lined boulevards, modern high-rise constructions and lavish shopping centres. One of the city’s most alluring features is the splendid Corniche, which extends along the waterfront for no less than several miles. Along its extent you will find such attractions as inviting beaches, go-cart arenas and playgrounds.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Discover Singapore’s Latest Wildlife Reserve on a Tour of River Safari

Quietly nestled in between the Lion City’s foremost wildlife reserves, the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari enclosure lies the country’s latest addition to an already illustrious list of attractions for nature lovers. Built at a cost of $160 million, River Safari is home to the globe’s most expansive freshwater aquarium as well as the largest panda showcase in Southeast Asia. Boasting one of the world’s most extensive collections of freshwater fauna, River Safari houses more than 6000 creatures which include 40 endangered species of wildlife. As the famed home of Singapore’s famed resident Pandas Jia Jia and Kai Kai a tour of the River Safari is a must-have experience for all holidaymakers visiting the Lion City. Based on the world’s iconic rivers the state-of-the-art wildlife sanctuary occupies a vast expanse with the Upper Seletar Reservoir serving as the backdrop.

 

Having opened its doors to the public in early 2014 the 12 hectare space is also the home of the Amazon Flooded Forest and the Squirrel Monkey Forest although its chief attraction is the famed Giant Panda Forest where Singapore’s only resident Giant Pandas reside. As ten year loans from China the magnificent creatures named Jia Jia and Kai Kai occupy a specially built climate-controlled area of River Safari while a special variety of bamboo is also grown by the zoo’s own 86,000 square foot cultivation region to feed the furry inhabitants.
The Mississippi River at River Safari explores the world of beavers and endangered Mississippi paddlefish and alligators while the Congo is home to the world’s biggest freshwater puffer fish. Tiger fish and finned birchirs occupy the River Nile while the Ganges is littered with goonch catfish, crocodilian Indian gharial and soft-shell turtles. The Murray River in contrast boasts inhabitants the likes of barramundi, crab fish and the nearly 2m long Murray Cod.
The Mekong River is home to giant freshwater stingrays and Mekong catfish while giant salamanders occupy the Yangtze River. In Wild Amazonia visitors can hop on board the Amazon River Quest where spider monkeys, Brazilian Tapirs and jaguars await while the Amazon Flooded Forest ecological showcase is equally engaging.
Refreshments are available at the River Safari Tea House and the Mama Panda Kitchen while memorabilia and souvenirs can be purchased at the River Safari Shop or House of Kai Kai & Jia Jia.

 

Travellers in search of trendy hotels in Singapore should look no further than the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Singapore group. Providing guests with the best in contemporary amenities the stylish Singapore hotels under this flagship hospitality conglomerate offer unforgettable vacations in the Lion City.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.Google+

Volcanic Air Safaris To Explore the Silenced Cruel Destroyers

The majesty of the fierce volcanoes that now lay silenced amid its tranquil and serene surroundings, witnessed from way up above is indeed a beautiful and priceless memory worth creating as the splendour of the vista that spreads beneath the great blue skies, when you roam amid the clouds of Rotorua, will certainly take your breath away.

Volcanic Air Safaris can be arranged to add the great flavour of excitement and the zest of thrill to your perfect holiday spent in the land of sublime beauty, New Zealand. On the shores of the Lake Rotorua in the Rotorua City Lakefront, you will find the Volcanic Air Safaris, conveniently located for every visitor to easily reach.

An extensive range of helicopter rides as well as floatplane rides are yours to choose from. The active volcano of White Island along with Mount Taraweera will be open for exploration from up above, while the scenic beauty all the way up to these attractions will leave you mesmerized indeed.

The White Island – Whakaari – Active Volcanic Landing and Walking Tour is indeed the highlight of the safari, where you would get the once in a life time opportunity to walk over to the border of an active crater lake. The journey will take you through the thrilling frights of steaming volcanic vents and hot streams giving you a daunting sensation of trespassing on a forbidden patch on the face of the Earth. Many colourful sulphur formations will however add much cheer to this place, which is the only undyingly active offshore volcano that New Zealand possesses. You will also have the opportunity to explore the abandoned mining ruins of this volcano which is a privately owned one, to heighten the thrill of your experience yet some more.

To witness in style the glory of the hidden treasures of Rotorua hotel such as Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ are ideal, as these encompass the true essence of luxury and opulence. Hotel in Rotorua such as this certainly provide ease and convenience to those who would like to explore the majesty of this land from way up above.