Author: pushpitha

Al Hoota Cave

Nestled in the district of Al Hamra and found near Jabal Shams, Al Hoota Cave is one of the most enthralling experiences that travellers will enjoy when holidaying in Oman. It is also known to be the only show cave in the Gulf which is accessible to tourists. Choose a Muscat hotel in the vicinity which will be your base from where you can head over to Al Hoota Cave. Oman hotels such as Al Falaj Hotel will put you in the mood for a riveting journey that will lead you to uncovering a wealth of treasures and secrets that have warmed the hearts of many.

Adorned with two lakes that form an integral part of the ecosystem of the cave, one can also encounter a rich variety of endemic species that call Al Hoota Cave home. These include water beetles, bats, anthropods and molluscs and a whole lot more. The main lake is 800 metres long and possesses the ‘Garra Barreimiae’ which is a rare species of blind fish that swim in its waters. The cave is made of limestone which was dissolved by acidic water while its columns have now been softened by the steady flow of water in it.

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+

IFly Dubai

A part of Playnation, the best known indoor entertainment brand in the Middle East, IFly Dubai is a state-of-the-art indoor skydiving facility, which allows both adults and children to experience the ultimate thrill of flying. The IFly Dubai is located in one of the UAE’s swankiest malls – Mirdif City Centre, where it is by far the most popular among all entertainment and recreation activities on offer.
For those not familiar with the concept of indoor skydiving, here the skydiver ‘flies’ through a vertical tunnel, assisted by strong winds that are generated through heavy-duty fans. These fans can generate winds of up to 200mph with 2×400 horsepower engines. Using their arms and legs as controls, the skydiver can experience the unique sensation of flying. Though some training and briefing on safety measures is required, almost everyone is eligible to take part in this exhilarating sport, which has been listed as one of the top 20 things to do in Dubai.


IFly Dubai was commissioned and built by Sky Venture of the USA, the world’s leading manufacturer of indoor skydiving tunnels, thereby guaranteeing the highest standards of safety and comfort. The 10-foot-wide chambers at the IFly skydiving centre are made of clear acrylic so as to ensure the best possible view for the diver. Skilled professional instructors are on hand to guide and assist beginners.

The other features at IFly Dubai are a training room where skydivers can learn various techniques related to the sport through videos, a rental area where equipment such as helmets and goggles are available for hire and the option of getting a souvenir of this exceptional experience by recording or photographing their ‘flight’. A visit to this exciting site will definitely add more colour to a memorable Dubai holiday.
Visitors to this splendid city who are seeking luxury accommodation in Dubai should consider the, Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa as it offers a luxurious urban get-away for the weary traveler, nestled in tranquil beauty at the crescent of Palm Jumeira. Located within 45 minutes of the airport, this Palm Jumeirah Hotel provides easy access to many of Dubai’s tourist attractions. The hotel is equipped with elegant rooms and villas with scenic views, restaurants serving delectable cuisine, and a legendary spa that will pamper guests in style.

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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Mangrove Kayaking

Areas of rich biodiversity, mangroves are the perfect places to embark on exciting kayaking tours. When in the UAE the best place for such excursions would be Sir Bani Yas Island and those in search of Abu Dhabi beach hotels here can consider Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This Abu Dhabi resort organises kayaking tours which let you truly explore these preserved areas.

An activity that can be enjoyed by young and old alike, mangrove kayaking lets you investigate areas one would not otherwise be able to reach. These spots of rich biodiversity are where one can see such range of wildlife too. When it comes to kayaking in Abu Dhabi and around the mangroves of Sir Bani Yas Island one can look forward to seeing flying fish, flamingos and of course stunning natural landscapes. For an unforgettable excursion head out in the early hours of the morning, during sunrise when you can witness the beauty of these mangroves at first light.

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+

Sail a Dinghy in Veitnam

Learning to sail a simple Dhingy is often the first lesson of sailing one has. Vietnam with its variability of weather and sea has perfect weather conditions to learn this exhilarating sport. Dinghy sailing is also known as the ideal sport to promote team work and physical, mental health hence is used as team building activity by many corporates.

There are several places close to Mui Ne Village that have Dinghy training centers and a range of internationally and regionally raced classes and certified instructors. This sport also promotes team skills, survival skills while also letting riders relax with friends and family at leisure. There are individually tailor-made courses offered in Mui Ne in line with National sailing requirements and most of these courses offer hands on instructions. These programs are enjoyable and emphasize safety and good seamanship. From how to balance the boat to steering, upwind tacking downwind and Jibing, everything is taught during the course.

Head over to the coastal town of Mui Ne and try your hand at this amazing sport , or if you are a veteran at it ,Mui Ne offers the best weather conditions and readily available gear to enjoy the sunny skies and gorgeous waves while you sail away at leisure. Ride the waves with all your might as you enjoy the exotic country of Vietnam, and its inherent natural beauty.

There are many a Vietnam hotel located close to the Dinghy sailing venues. These offer the ease and conveniences of indulging in this exciting sport a stone’s throw away from luxurious comforts. These hotels also have navigators who are able to advice you on how to get started if you are new to the sport and provide you with a wealth of information on sailing.

Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa is a luxury resort in Mui Ne that offers star class luxuries within an authentic ambience. With well-appointed rooms that look over the beautiful southern coast of Vietnam, Anantara offers an unforgettable experience within its tropical retreat. Watch Mui Ne’s beautiful sun set with the wind in your hair while you go Dhingy Sailing in Beautiful Vietnam and retire by evening to the Legendary Anantara services.

An Exhilarating Experience

The tropical climate in Maldives makes it the perfect destination for sea swimming, diving and soaking up the sun. Not many are aware that apart from these activities Maldives is one the best locations to see whales. It has been recognised as one of the top five places for viewing such marvels of nature. There are several species of whales that roam around in the ocean surrounding the Maldivian islands. Short fin pilot whales, Bryde’s whales, Cuvier beaked whales, False killer whales, Melon-headed whales, Blue whales and even species such as the Sperm whale and Killer whale can be found in Maldivian waters. From what has been recorded there are around 23 species of these creatures and dolphins surrounding the islands. It is difficult to see some of the larger species such as the blue whale because it shies away from humans.

Maldives has a group of these species that are hard to find in any other region. The Dwarf sperm whale, Tropical bottlenose whale and the Melon-headed whale have been spotted in the ocean surrounding Maldives. The best way to see these creatures is to pay for a cruise or a safari boat. The boats get quite close to these animals and you could see them dive and then rise above the sea level. It is fascinating to watch them as most of the animals travel in enormous schools and you can watch them swim right in front of you. The most commonly seen species during a trip is the pilot whale. If you are not familiar with the different species don’t worry yourself too much about it. There are expert guides on board in each of the trips and they are sure to inform you about the varieties that you see.
The trips are guaranteed to entertain you with some amazing views of these gentle giants, but you may not see much of the bigger species as they are harder to find and most often swim in deep waters. If whale watching is part of the Maldives itinerary then one should stay in a Maldives resort. The types of hotels that one should look into are Maldives bungalows that have some great offers on these tours. For luxurious accommodation, amenities and value-for-money deals book a room at Anantara Veli Maldives.

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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Exciting Off Road Driving on the Wahiba Sands

With mile upon mile of sand covered desert stretching as far as the eye can see, the Wahiba Sands of Oman offer thrilling escapades on off road vehicles. Those in search of Oman hotels from which to set off on such expeditions can consider the luxurious Desert Nights Camp. This hotel in Oman is uniquely located amidst awe-inspiring desert landscapes and also offers a variety of outdoor activities including desert treks and quad bike excursions.

Four-wheel drive vehicles provide the perfect mode of transport when it comes to exploring the Wahiba Sands. These off road vehicles will take you on an unforgettable ride over imposing dunes and across landscapes that are hauntingly beautiful in their desolation. Such excursions can be combined with other activities such as quad biking, sand boarding and even visits to traditional Bedouin camps. Dune bashing is a popular activity that can be enjoyed when off road driving here, while those heading out in the evenings can also enjoy the spectacular sight of the setting sun.

 

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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The Sanya Sailing Race

China is truly a cultural destination, offering something for both the young and the old. They have a very diverse culture and have many events to promote them. The most interesting part of visiting this enchanting country is participating in their festivals such as the dragon festival and so much more. One of the most compelling factors that draws visitors there in thousands every year is the world wonder, the Great Wall of China. So when you do get the opportunity to travel to this wonderful land do not forget to experience everything that the country has to offer. Yet, there is another interesting facet of China that is still to be explored. This is the Sanya Sailing Race. Hainan is a famous place for its excellent service industry and of course for their great cuisine.

After having been held in February 2012, the race will once again return to Sanya, which is the tourist capital in the province of Hainan. The area is considered to be the best venue for the race as the racers can sail up close to the shore and even on to the bay. This is a great time to visit China because the excitement is quite overwhelming and you can see international competitors right here at the event. Due to the excellent weather conditions, you are bound to have yourself a great time and it is something that the entire family can enjoy. This is an event that is visited by over thousands of spectators who come there for their share of the fun. This two day event provides a lot of fun and entertainment that you are bound not to forget any time soon.

Staying in the area is quite an experience. Stay in a Sanya hotel or even a Sanya resort such as the Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa. Sanya has so much to offer you, so do not miss out on this splendid opportunity and explore everything that this place is renowned for. Visit the Sanya bay and also the Nanwan Monkey Island. This is a trip that you are sure to remember and you and your whole family can enjoy because as said before, there is something for everyone in the wonderful place.

 

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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Batu Bolong Temple

For those holidaying in the west of Tanah Lot, a trip to the enchanting Batu Bolong Temple would go a long way in completing an unforgettable escape in Bali. Perched on a volcanic rock that leads out to sea, this Hindu temple is easily accessible from any of the luxury villas in Bali. From all of the luxury villas Bali has to offer, Alila Villas Soori will captivate you and put you in the mood for a trip to this popular destination.

Be enthralled by the stunning sunset by evening or the beautiful turquoise waters by day when visiting the temple. A feature of the temple is that the rock on which it is situated on possesses a giant cavity which adds to the ambience. Batu Bolong Temple comprises of a small yard and faces Bali’s most scared mountain; Gunung Agung.

Deep Water Diving in Kathu

One of the premier destinations for deep water diving, Kathu in Phuket provides an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves. Look to combine diving excursions with health retreats Phuket has to offer, letting you find peace for mind, body and spirit. Thanyapura is one such option and features holistic wellness that combines perfectly with the active lifestyle Asia is known for.

Diving enthusiasts can head to Kathu where one can find colourful coral reefs and vibrant marine life amidst the clear waters of the Andaman Sea. Pa Tong town is an ideal base from which to set off on your diving adventures and lets you truly explore Phuket’s fascinating marine world. Plan a trip to the Similan and Surin National Marine Parks which offer plenty of diving fun, while not to be missed is a chance to head underwater and visit Richelieu Rock. The Koh Racha Islands are also known for dive sites worth exploring. On your excursions you may come across such marine life as blacktip reef sharks, lionfish and fusiliers to name but a few of the species that inhabit these waters.

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+

Boat Ride in Dutch Canal

Once upon a time used as a transportation route for spices and other essential goods by the Dutch, the Dutch canals of Negombo still hold their age old charm and serves as an ideal means of exploring the city. Look for a comfortable Negombo Beach resort such as Jetwing Sea which is known to be an ideal budget Negombo beach hotel located in the area. Running for more than 60 miles, one can still see the remnants of the glorious Dutch era on either sides of the canal in the forms of old Dutch houses, warehouses as well as administrative buildings. A boat ride down the Dutch canal also gives the travellers a different view of this fascinating coastal town, a perspective not seen by any other means. Constructed by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the canal starts from Hendala and runs up to Pamunugama and now provides as a fisherman’s means to get to the 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. Google+