Author: pushpitha

Bird Watching in Kumana

The tropics of Sri Lanka make it an ideal destination for bird watching with the Kumana National Park being one of the prime locations for nature lovers to indulge in such an outdoor adventure. Found approximately 391 km southeast of Colombo, the park is easily accessible by choosing to stay at any luxury hotel Sri Lanka has to offer. Even Sri Lanka boutique hotels such as Saman Villas Bentota can be chosen as a favourable choice of accommodation to come home to.
The park comprises of mangrove swamp sections, karan ferns, kumbuk trees and wetland areas that serve as ideal breeding grounds for a host of bird species that flock in large numbers. When scouring the area one must keep in mind to visit the Kumana Villu which is a swamp lake where numerous water birds such as spoonbills, egrets and pelicans may be sighted. Be sure to take your binoculars with you for you might capture sights of the migrant birds that arrive here. These include the malabar trogon, yellow-footed green pigeon and the greater racket-tailed drongo. Amongst the 255 species that are known to inhabit the area, the black-necked stork and great thick-knee can be seen during the months of April to July. The best time to head over would be during the initial half of the year where the waterholes are full to the brim. After a trip to Kumana one will be left with an abundance of memories to take back home.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Mu Ko Phetra National Park

Mu Ko Phetra Marine Park is located in the Andaman Sea side of Thailand and is one of the largest marine parks in the country. There are around 30 islands that belong to the park and some of these islands are known to be nesting grounds for turtles that lay their eggs on the beach. Since the national park includes islands from the southern part of the Trang Province and the northern area of the Satun Province there is a variety of flora and fauna found here. The site is an excellent place to visit from sunrise to sunset. Visitors can begin the day by exploring the colourful coral reef which is home to rich marine life. Then set off on a trekking tour observing some curious animals and birds in the tropics.

The area has some of the typical features of Thai’s tropics such as steep limestone rocks and white sandy beaches so it is perfect for those who want to go for a hike. The limestone is believed to be at least 470 million years old and they reach up to 200m in height providing a spectacular view of the Andaman Sea. There are a lot of water based activities one can participate in while at the park; snorkelling, diving, swimming and kayaking are some of them. If you are feeling tired then it is best to take a ride on a cruise boat or go on a ferry. Some of the islands have been restricted to the public and you need to be with a recognized tour guide if one wants to see certain locations in the area.

One will notice that there are different types of forests scattered across the islands; rainforests, open forests and mangrove forests. The mangrove forests are in the muddy areas, near the lagoons; there are open forests on the beachfront filled with lush vegetation. The rainforests are found in the interior of the islands, and you need to travel further inside to see them. What is also fascinating are the different animal species and aquatic life you see here. Monkeys, wild pigs, bats, pythons and Indian monitors are abundant. Turtles, Brahminy kites, collared kingfishers, and reef egrets are also frequently sighted. If you are looking for a place to stay so you can visit the marine park then you should try to check into Krabi resorts. You can also consider staying at a Trang resort which makes an ideal base to explore the area. When visiting the region consider staying at Anantara Si Kao Thailand which features villas overlook the stunning Andaman Sea.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Mountain Climbing in Beijing

How would experiencing a challenging climb that will lead you to some of the most enchanting of peaks in the city of Beijing? Choosing a luxury apartment in Beijing would be the best way to begin an unforgettable adventure. Somerset Grand Fortune will offer you the convenience of residing at its serviced apartments Beijing possesses from where you could plan a day’s trip to these majestic mountains.
Baihe Natural Rock Climbing Cliff poses perhaps the greatest of challenges to even the skilled mountaineer. With its various paths the cliff comes across as a daunting climb which offers trekkers the joy of absorbing the natural ambience of Beijing in all its glory. Come face to face with dizzying heights at this cliff which is a renowned tourist hotspot in the area. The Western Hills and Huairou-Miyun loop located to the north of the city are also options worth considering. Feel an adrenaline rush like no other as you take on the demands of Beijing’s outdoors in your own time.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Happy Valley

How about leaving behind the monotony of work and stepping out for a well earned break? Well then think no further than the Happy Valley Shenzhen which is by far China’s most visited and enjoyed amusement park. Located in the Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Happy Valley can easily be reached by choosing a Shenzhen serviced apartment. Do consider a serviced apartment Shenzhen has to offer by staying at Somerset Garden City Shenzhen.

Covering an impressive 86 hectares, Happy Valley is made up of nine themed sections which include Typhoon Bay, Sunshine Beach, Mt. Adventure, Gold Mine Town, Spanish Square, Cartoon City, Playa Maya Water Park, Happy Times and Shangri-la-Woods. Opened in 2002, the park serves an array of exciting and absorbing rides that would make anyone want to come back a second time. Voyage through the dense forests of Mt. Adventure and arrive at ‘The Space Shot’ which will take you up to a height of 60 metres in the air where you can savour a few seconds of the surroundings before being hurtled down at an amazing speed. Take the little ones to Cartoon City where they are sure to be kept company by the numerous fairy tales on show. For jaw-dropping excitement, take on ‘Shooting the Chute’ which is the world’s highest fall located at Typhoon Bay.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Off Road Driving

A tour of the United Arab Emirates is not complete without experiencing authentic desert life. The rolling sands that comprise the glittering golden landscape of the Middle East pose immense significance to the nations of the UAE, beyond being exquisite to admire and capture through the lens. The many dunes that make up the UAE afford an array of off-road fun that range from driving to simply rolling down the soft slopes.

The popularity of the dunes among the many visitors to the island gave rise to an array of ‘Desert experience’ packages. Now, from the heart of the city, you can rent your own four-wheel drive vehicles and get yourself a tour guide and experience the thrill of indulging in a variety of exciting desert activities. Of all the types of fun desert excursions one can indulge in, the most simple yet most thrilling activity is off road driving. Driving off road is absolute fun despite all the humps and bumps. In fact it is perhaps the turbulence that truly adds the spice to this activity. A word of caution: avoid large meals prior to chaotic off-roading in the desert.

One of the most popular off-road driving destinations is the massive Empty Quarter. These huge dunes present a fantastic driving challenge and is a must experience feature here if you are in town during the cooler months of the year. In the summer, the heat soars to absolutely scorching heights. There are plenty of 4 wheel drives that can be hired with or without a guide and all you should make sure is that it is insured for off-road riding. Company is important when you are wandering off into the desert. A good 2, 3 jeeps along with yours and you are all good to go. Off road driving is excellent as a group activity. If you are going driving without a guide, it is important that you first get the hang of the ropes of the desert from one of the many tour companies in Abu Dhabi. They will provide you with the right tips for the skill and equipment that you would need to enjoy your adventure.

While exploring UAE and all its wonders, consider a stay at the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi. Offering gracious hospitality and charming surrounds, this luxury choice of hotel in Abu Dhabi presents a fine option of five star accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer its corporate and leisure visitors.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Drive Jebel Hafeet

Towering high over the plains of Al Ain, the Jebel Hafeet stands proud as the tallest peak in the entire Emirate. There is a rugged beauty about Jebel Hafeet; its surface red and raw is the evidence of its endurance. The chiselled edges of the Jebel Hafeet gives it sheer majesty, the mere sight of which will leave you in awe and will give you an authentic taste of the desert side of the United Arab Emirates.

The Middle East in general is known for its excellent roadways, the United Arab Emirates in particular tops this list boasting fantastic automobiles and smooth carpeted roads. Driving is such a pleasure in the UAE and the blissful desert scenery in the outskirts of the city is a real pleasure to savor. One fantastic location to experience the bliss of driving is the Jebel Hafeet. The Jebel Hafeet rises just over 1200 meters above sea level and has winding roads that adorn all sides of the mountain. The best part about these mountain roads are that they are wide and comfortable to ride on. The many bends that come with this road makes a drive to the top of Jebel Hafeet both fun and adventurous.

The Jebel Hafeet is exotic; every inch of this mountain has beauty to savour. It is built out of craggy limestone that has stood tall over millions of years weathering the harsh climatic conditions of the desert side of UAE. The many rains and scorching suns have shaped Jebel Hafeet to what is today a symbol of artistic magnificence in the UAE. In addition to all its beauty the mountain is also a historically significant location. It holds the heart of the world’s past and several important fossils have been discovered here including over 500 ancient burial tombs that date back over 5000 years.

Once you reach the top of the mountain you will be rewarded by unmatched beauty, sceneries that will take your breath away and magnificent bird’s eye views of Al Ain. After an adventurous day at the peak, come home to the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This Abu Dhabi resort is the finest of all the Abu Dhabi beach hotels.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Outdoor things to do in Maldives

Maldives is a spectacular tourist destination since there are so many fun activities you can do when you visit. The most popular activities are the outdoor adventures like diving, snorkelling and exploring the reefs around the island. Throughout the year Maldives waters are warm and clear so it is ideal for exploration. There are over 1000 different types of species that dwell in the sea and you could see them, swim amongst them and observe the wonderful corals embedded on the reef. Diving lessons and packages are easy to come by when in the area. There are a number of agents and companies that are willing to rent diving equipment and to teach you how to navigate through the waters. The best thing is that you do not need to be a professional diver to enjoy an expedition underwater; snorkelling is one of the easiest activities which you can learn and master while you are in the country.


You could also take part in an island excursion and travel to one of the local islands. A visit to the local islands will expose you to the unique Maldivian culture and cuisine which is a very gratifying experience. The island culture and lifestyle in Maldives is influenced by fishing. The fishing community has their own stories and folk tales; their heroic adventures out at sea are fascinating. Maldivian people are extremely friendly and hospitable and they always welcome you to listen to their stories and share a meal. The key ingredients in all of the dishes are coconut, rice and seafood. When you visit a local island you should taste some local cuisine for it is quite simply delicious.


Maldives is also a great destination for visitors who want to relax and detoxify. There are so many spas; wellness centres and massage clinics that will help one unwind. The traditional healing methods are perfect to ease stress and anxiety. Try out Gandhakolhi leaf treatments and those remedies offered at Hakeembe as these are authentic therapy sessions which one can only find in the Maldives. For all-inclusive vacation deals stay at a Maldives resort. There is a variety of hotels which provides accommodation in Maldives so one will find it easy to book a room which fits one’s budget. Anantara Dhigu Maldives is a great place to spend your vacation for the rooms are luxurious and the hotel offers various tours and spa treatments for their guests.

Abu Dhabi Motorsports

How about making a date with the magic of Abu Dhabi’s motor sports experience? To savour the thrills of the area’s motorsports, why not choose the comfort of an Abu Dhabi hotel from where you could be based at? Grand Millennium Al Wahda which comes across as a hotel Abu Dhabi UAE has to offer would prove to be a good choice.

Amongst the many treats that racing fans the world over may be able to partake of while in the area, none quite adds up to the excitement of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which hosted at the famed Yas Marina Circuit. Seen as one of the most eye-catching of sporting pageants in the area, visitors can see their favourite race car drivers battle it out on track for supremacy. Additionally go-karters can try out the 1.4 km raceway of the Al Ain Sportplex to hone their skills in go-karting. Up and coming racers can showcase their skills at one of the four demanding tracks of Al Forsan. Whatever skill level, Abu Dhabi certainly has everyone well taken care of.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Oman Adventures

Happen to be travelling to Oman? Then you must take time to pay a visit at the numerous attractions that scatter the area. Looking for a Muscat hotel to stay at? Look no further than the Millennium Resort Mussanah which comes across as an Oman Muscat hotel that offers you affordable accommodation and easy access to the country’s tourist hotspots.

The forts in Oman stand testament to the country’s rich and glorious past and are sure to entice all you history buffs for a day out in the Omani sunshine. Nakhal Fort is one such edifice that dates back to the reign of Imam Said bin Sultan in 1834 A.D. Discover the intricate features of its architecture as the fort also comprises of certain portions of rock. Nestled amidst iconic mountain peaks and palm orchards, Nakhal Fort is an experience you do not want to miss out on. Rustaq’s Al Hazam Castle with its hidden passes and dungeons will offer you an essence of Oman military. Be awed by daggers, swords and guns on display but the most striking feature perhaps are the two wooden gates which have been carefully crafted. For those in the mood for water sports, the country never fails to disappoint. Daymaniyat Islands is where one should be heading over to if one seeks some snorkelling. Its coral reefs are home to moray eels, barracudas, clown fish and even hawksbill turtles that make for pleasant viewing.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Bicycle Around Ubud

Tucked away amidst stunning countryside scenery and charming rustic villages, Ubud is an idyllic getaway which is also a great place to embark on cycling excursions. Travellers planning to visit the region and in search of Bali resorts from which to head off on cycling tours can consider staying at Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. One of the leading Uluwatu hotels, it provides an ideal base from which to set off on your adventures and offers cycle tours as well.

You can plan a bicycle excursion to Ubud where one can use some good old fashioned pedal power to travel around the countryside. An ideal way to head off the beaten track, these trips are best undertaken with a tour guide who will guide you to some of the best locations. Passing lush paddy fields, ancient temples and traditional villages, such excursions give one the chance to enjoy an authentic holiday adventure and mingle with locals as well. Part of the joy of cycling in Ubud is the chance to visit Ubud village where one will find craftsmen engaged in traditional arts and crafts.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+