maggie - The Adventure Travel Site

Sea and Fresh Water Kayaking

New Zealand is one of those nations with stunning landscapes right out of a fairy tale. Snow capped mountains, tumbling waterfalls, isolated golden beaches, deep green forests and intricate waterways that criss-cross the land from end to end. Travel the waterways, lakes and streams and the open sea for a complete new perspective of the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand. Kayaking is one such mode of transport you can enjoy with your loved ones, cruise on glassy waters or tumble among the rocks for a bit of adventure but there is a ride for beginners and the more experienced to enjoy.

Take a journey into the open seas and into mysterious caves, chase dolphins in your kayak, say hi to a seal and dip down in for a bit of snorkelling with the fish. Marlborough Sounds in South Island are relatively wilder than others with Queen Charlotte Sound, Pelorus Sound and Kenepuru Sound, the main areas for kayaking and all with stunning landscape to explore and dolphins and orcas to play with. Home to the world famous Mitre Peak and dramatic waterfalls is the Milford Sound and nearby is the Doubtful Sounds, a still larger and more remote but equally stunning area to explore. Abel Tasman National Park with its tranquil lagoons, golden beaches, mild sunny climate, and forest covered hills and ideal camping grounds and swimming areas is the perfect place for the carefree traveller. From day trips to multiday trips to the Cavalli Islands with over 150 islands and 800 km of coastline is the Bay of Islands in North Island and Kaikoura with the majestic Kaikoura Mountains, Canyon and haven for marine life is a world unto its own to see. Other sea kayaking destinations include Okarito Lagoon, Hauraki Gulf, Coromandel Peninsula and Dusky Sound.

Paddle along the longest navigable waterway, the Whanganui River or visit Maori rock carvings on Lake Taupo for a spellbinding experience of freshwater kayaking in New Zealand. Visit the Rotorua’s crater lakes for a gentle lake paddle or battle the white water of Mohaka and Rangitaiki in North Island or Kawarau and Clutha in South Island for an adrenaline rush. Be it an epic river journey, a tranquil drift on a glassy lake or spending some quality time with family on a golden beach, a kayaking trip along the many waterways is the ideal way to explore this exquisite land.

For the best of New Zealand hotel deals visit Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ, one of the best among the New Zealand hotels.

Google+

Bali Jungle White Water Rafting Adventure- An exhilarating experience in Ayung River!

Bali is a place with many exciting outdoor adventures. A luxury Bali hotel would offer the travellers the perfect place to relax and unwind after an exhausting outdoor adventure. Anantara Seminyak Bali is one of the most renowned Bali hotelsrecommended by most of the travellers for its warm hospitality during the stay. One of the most exciting excursions you should enjoy when holidaying in Bali is the white water rafting adventure in Bali jungle. Grab the oars and head down to experience this rafting adventure in Ayung River. Whether you are an experienced rafts man or an amateur, the guides will assist you in experiencing a safe ride filled with fun and exhilaration.

Dune Bashing, a sensational pursuit

Dune bashing is a popular recreational activity in the expansive deserts of the Middle East. It consists of driving powerful off-road vehicles, often large sport-utility vehicles across the immense sand dunes of the local deserts. This is definitely a sport for experienced drivers but it is also possible to take a hired ride with an expert dune basher at the wheel.

The amazing sensations of travelling up and down the dunes, sand spraying from the SUV’s tyres and at times obscuring the vision, is an experience that will linger long in the memory. This inimitable experience is now very popular in Middle Eastern nations like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Oman.
When ascending sand dunes in a vehicle, it is vital to understand the off-road angles. If the driver does not understand the method of using the correct angle of approach, the vehicle may get immobilized in the sand. If the driver miscalculates the angle of break-over, the car could get stuck at the summit of the sand dune.
Another factor is the momentum of the vehicle, which must be sufficient to ascend the dune without halting. If the vehicle starts to lose momentum it will be necessary descend the dune or turn around in a large arc. However in the hands of an experienced dune basher this activity is an exhilarating adrenaline rush, one of the most extraordinary sensations in the world.

Oman is an excellent venue in which to try out dune bashing, with its vast tranquil sandy expanses. The destination of choice is the Wahiba Sands, as the shimmering Ramlat Al Wahaybah is popularly known. By going on an excursion here you will also be able to watch the sensational desert sunset, an amazing sight that never fails to enthral the visitor. You can also try out an exotic camel ride, understand the Bedouin way of life by visiting a Bedouin village and savour the delectable flavours of a traditional ‘shuwa’ meal in the tranquil environment of the expansive desert.

The selective visitor selecting Oman hotels will find an outstanding accommodation in the Desert Nights Camp. This fine hotel in Oman offers excellent accommodations and attentive hospitality.

Google+

Eating Out in Maldives- A true gastronomic delight!

Tipped to be one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations the island archipelago of Maldives is a beach laden paradise the likes of which are found nowhere else in the world. Littered with breathtaking beaches and stunning coral islands this honeymooner’s heartland has justifiably gained a reputation as a foodie’s hub in recent years. Offering discerning travellers a unique blend of local delicacies, regional specialties as well as international favourites the ideally situated dining outlets of this paradise island collective leave little to the imagination when it comes to tingling the taste buds.

Open from the wee hours of the morning to late at night Maldivian eateries are some of the most scenically located diners in Asia. With many restaurants securing a breathtaking seaside or waterfront location visitors can enjoy a piping hot meal surrounded by panoramic views of the country’s natural heritage and the shade of palm trees.

Gourmet delight made from the fresh seafood is a true Maldivian specialty as the dishes are prepared using the catch of the day fresh off the fishing boats. Seafood is also a staple in the traditional cuisine of the Maldives as the islands are surrounded by vast oceans teeming with large varieties of marine species. Those in search of a typical Maldivian meal can find rice dishes complimented by crunchy popadums, omelettes, various types of pickles and tuna fish at almost any restaurant while other hot-pick local dishes include bacon, chicken curry, sausages, tomatoes seasoned with basil and herb foccacia. Desert items on the other hand are mainly fruit based and are steamed and baked to perfection. Highlights include banana hot cakes, vanilla bean rice, rice pudding and cream in berries while exotic fruits that are only available in the country are also seasonal favourites.

Sri Lankan, Indian, Chinese and Thai delicacies are also found abundantly in Maldivian menus as the regional cuisines are popular among locals. Some of the must-try restaurants in the Maldives include Le Dome, Spago and Chinois with its Chinese inspired cuisine. The Thai Wok Restaurant is also a delightful venue in addition to Granita, Vert and Mark’s while those who wish to experience Maldivian café culture and alfresco dining can head down to Cafe Four Oaks, the Salsa Cafe or Trends: The Garden Restaurant.
Travellers in search of the best Maldives spa resorts should look to Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas for all their accommodation needs. Ideally located in a breathtaking location this stunning rest is one of the finest Maldives resorts for holidaymakers and corporate visitors.

Google+

Safari Camping Holidays in Sri Lanka

Travellers while on a Sri Lanka Travel adventure can make use of the Trails & Treks tour offered by Jetwing Travels and explore the wild in Sri Lanka. This exciting Sri Lanka Tour Package will take you on an adventure of nine nights through a number of safari destinations with mystical waterfalls. Among many highlights the leopard safari at the famous Yala national park is certain to make memories for a life time. You will spot herds of Elephants throughout Yala. During the journey, the travellers will pass through small hamlets, gravel roads and past temples exploring the rural living in Sri Lanka.

Activities at Galactic Circus

Offering plenty of family friendly thrills and entertainment, Galactic Circus is a popular indoor attraction in Melbourne. Those heading to the city and in search of centrally located luxury Melbourne accommodation from which to head the city’s many attractions can stay at The Langham Melbourne. One of the leading hotels Melbourne it makes an ideal base from which to begin your adventures. Once settled in, make sure to head to Galactic Circus which can be found in the Crown Entertainment Complex. The biggest indoor interactive theme park in the country, it features a wide array of games and attractions that provide plenty of excitement for young and old alike. The M9 Laser Skirmish is one of the highlights at the site, which has a carnival where you can enjoy classic shows, simulators, various entertainers and good food. Bowling is also available and you can be assured of an unforgettable day out!

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

Google+

Wildlife in Kenya, an experience like no other

Kenya has earned a firm reputation as one of the world’s richest wildlife habitats, possessing many magnificent and appealing animal species. Thousands of tourists from across the globe converge on this African nation to view its captivating wildlife.

The largest creatures in Kenya are as one might expect the big herbivores. Of these, the mighty African elephant takes pride of place, and they are easily spotted in the country’s numerous game reserves. In fact elephants are found in several varied habitats within Kenya. Visitors will be thrilled by the sight of the powerful rhinoceros, which is now endangered and therefore some of the remaining specimens are being relocated to safe areas. However numerous rhinos remain on the Kenyan plains, notably at Nairobi National Park. The giraffe is another essential sight, as they graze on the tender acacia leaves.

The Cape buffalo, powerful and unpredictable, is another magnificent sight. Visitors should also take the opportunity to view the massive and ungainly hippopotamus, as it lounges in the basins and swamps. Other significant herbivores include the unmistakable eland, the largest of the antelopes and the wildebeest, in addition to a host of smaller plant eaters.

Naturally the aggressive predators feature prominently in the sights to be seen in the Kenyan game reserves. The big cats, notably the lions and leopards will be a memorable sight, particularly as they engage in their hunting. The sight of a sprinting cheetah is a spectacle that will truly never be forgotten. Hyenas, wild dogs, servals and jackals are other interesting features on the Kenyan plains. Not to be missed are the huge African crocodiles which may be seen basking in the streams and rivers.

Kenya also boasts a wide variety of bird species, including the unmistakable ostrich. Other fascinating varieties include the beautiful albatrosses and an array of other avian species such as grebes, petrels, pelicans, shearwaters, gannets, boobies, cormorants, darters, egrets, herons, storks and flamingos amongst many others. Kenya is truly a birdwatcher’s paradise.

If you are interested in travel to Kenya from Sri Lanka then experienced Sri Lanka travel agents such as Mackinnons are the ideal choice to arrange your trip to make the most of your Kenyan experience.

Google+

Hiking the Great Wall

The Great Wall of China is one of the world’s most famous wonders and those wanting to truly explore this awe-inspiring creation should look to embark on a hiking expedition along the wall itself. Beijing is a great destination from which to head to the site and those in search of hotel rooms in Beijing from which to access this attraction can stay at Langham Place, Beijing Capital Airport. This Beijing airport hotel is only around an hour from this world famous site and features a variety of contemporary comforts. Once you make your way to the Great Wall you will no doubt be amazed by its sheer scale. You can find different companies offering a variety of hiking tours ranging from one day excursions to those lasting two weeks! Your hikes will take you past some truly breathtaking scenery and there will be many great photo opportunities as you pass mountains and scenic landscapes. Besides packing suitable attire and your camera, do not forget to wear comfy walking shoes too!

Explore Paradise Found on Engaging Samui Island Tours

Abound with a million possibilities vacationers will have more than their fair share to write home about when exploring the holiday powerhouse that is Koh Samui. Renowned as one of Thailand’s most popular tourist havens the palm fringed environs of this idyllic piece of paradise guarantees holidaymakers in search of something more than a beach vacation an unforgettable cultural and retail experience as well. The myriad of excursions available to visitors are tailor made to fit every kind of traveller and interest with engage activities thrown in to the mix.

Shopaholics will find bargains galore on a shopping tour of Koh Samui as central Chaweng Beach is a veritable hotspot for shoppers during night time. Selling everything from beachwear to quirky local curios this bustling shopper’s hub packs in the best of Samui’s retail potential in to one thriving local market. Those in search of authentic Thai goods on the other hand can head to town where stunning Thai silks, grand teak furnishings, hand crafted art work and hand knitter cotton garbs are found. Jewellery and textiles are available at unbeatable prices while tourists scouring for souvenirs to take back home will also find plenty of options at every turn.

Culture buffs can take a tour of Samui’s captivating ancient religious edifices on a temple tour that explores the island’s cultural and spiritual identity. Some of the highlights include the Big Buddha Temple where guests can watch monks perform daily rituals and observances. The striking sculpture of Lord Buddha adorned with 18 arms at Wat Plai Laem is equally engaging as the towering statue lies at the heart of a lake. Fortunes are read out on fortune sticks as blessings are benevolently bestowed on all who engage in this interactive exploration of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage.

Golf fans can tee off with the best in the island at the Santiburi Country Club which boasts an 18 hole par 72 course with oceanic views in all directions. Island hoppers can also explore the landscapes of Samui on a 4 wheel drive across the rainforest and uncover wilder side of the island with its native animal populace and inland geographical treasures. Those who prefer a mountain bike over a Land Rover can take the sights in via mountain bike on scenic trails that take visitors to the heart of Samui and its natural wonders.

Travellers in search of a luxurious Chaweng hotel will find no finer alternative to the Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Koh Samui. Offering guests the best in contemporary comforts this breathtaking Koh Samui resort is ideally suited for both holidaymakers and corporate travellers.

Google+

Shanghai Natural Wild Insect Kingdom

The bug museum or the Shanghai Natural Wild Insect Museum is a wonderful place to take your kids during the vacation. The museum is a place filled with many species of insects that is sure to thrill you and your kids. It is absolutely a lovely experience where one can take an insight to the habitat of insects and how they survive. There are over 200 varieties of insects that live in various high tech environments that are specially made for the different creatures. Among the many developed environments the museum houses a desert, a country side, a valley, a swamp, a forest, a rainforest and so on.

Anyone who enters this magnificent world of bugs will find it quite bizarre and the kids will surely love it. The museum is separated into many segments like insect gallery, butterfly valley, ecological feeding area, water experiencing area, small inset theatre, solution cavity of amphibian and reptile, tropical rainforest experiencing area and the list goes on. The most exciting activity of the agenda would be the show time where the insect parade, food grabbing show and the honey gathering activity will fascinate you. The most unique experience you will get from this special museum is that you get to interact with the insects, touch them and feed them. You could in addition have some fun fishing as well.

Apart from the bugs, the reptiles will amaze the kids more. As you enter you will come across a tank with a very busy seal who finds the tank quite not enough. This kid friendly museum is a fantastic place to amuse your little children by showing the scary alligators, relax on the big sitting area next to the toy shop having a health snack or go fishing for goldfish. It will be a place that your little ones will want to come every day. If you are visiting Shanghai, a great Shanghai luxury hotel for your stay would be The Langham Xintiandi Shanghai which consists of luxury and comfortable hotel rooms in Shanghai. It is also in the near vicinity of this intriguing museum as well as many other top attractions in the city including entertainment, shopping and dining venues.

Google+