Author: roland

Snorkelling in Mirissa Beach Sri Lanka

Are you looking for the perfect island getaway, a place where turquoise-blue seas lap a shore fringed by tall coconut trees? If your answer is ‘yes’ then Sri Lanka is the place to be! Dubbed the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is truly an island paradise. Home to 1340 kilometres of coastline, Sri Lanka’s breathtaking beaches are a favourite local hangout, and one of the reasons tourists keep coming back!

Some of Sri Lanka’s most famous beaches lie a few kilometres to the south of the country’s commercial capital of Colombo and is a comfortable half day journey away from the bustling Colombo city. The journey to Sri Lanka’s South will take you through quaint coastal towns that is home to many beachside resorts and a hardworking fishing community. Visit the famous Mirissa beach which lies in Sri Lanka’s extreme south and be blown away by its beautiful surroundings overlooked by CASA Colombo Collection Mirissa. As many a Mirissa hotel and restaurant lie away from the beach, the crescent shaped Mirissa beach can be enjoyed in complete privacy. Witness the beautiful sunrise and stroll along the beach to watch fishing boats return to shore while an afternoon can be spent surfing or sipping on refreshing king coconut while reading a book under a shady coconut tree.

Come the Whale Watching season from November-April, Mirissa comes abuzz with excitement as excited locals descend to Mirissa for the many boat rides that take them on whale watching excursions. Here visitors are treated to the sight of Blue whales, Sperm whales and Bottlenose dolphins. However if you want to escape the crowds and discover the Island’s sea life on your own, the shallow, calm waters of the eastern Mirissa beach is ideal for snorkelling. Spend an afternoon snorkelling in the cool waters off Mirissa’s coast and admire abundant sea life including Bluefin tuna and Flying fish among beautiful corals and wandering turtles. It’s this along with breathtaking sunsets and a picture-perfect coastline that make Mirissa a vital part of Sri Lanka’s serendipity story!

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Wild Life Holidays to Sri Lanka

Lying in the shape of a teardrop in the Indian Ocean is a tiny miracle of an island called Sri Lanka. Though small in size this little island is a mighty land that boasts a spectacular array of rich history, culture and of course Wildlife. You might not believe it when you hear that this country, which just a little bit bigger than the US state of West Virginia, is home to a staggering 123 species of mammals, 173 species of reptiles, 227 species of birds, 93 species of freshwater fish, 119 species of amphibians and whole lot of other species! So what are you waiting for? Book a tour operator like the prestigious Walkers Tours Sri Lanka and set out on a range of wildlife Sri Lanka holidays and meet some of our most interesting and fascinating subspecies in the lush jungles of Sri Lanka.

So after you packed your bags and arrived in the Garden of Eden where to go you ask? First journey to the Land of Lakes, the Wilpattu National Park, located in the North West of the island. The unique feature about this park is what gives it its name, Willus- natural, sand rimmed water basins sprawled throughout the park. Among the many creatures you can see here, the highlight will be the magnificent Asian elephant, the fuzzy sloth bear, the ferocious mugger crocodile, and the majestic Sri Lankan Leopard. Yala National Park, the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, is another prominent wildlife park of Sri Lanka. Located in the southeast of the island, the park has similar residents as Wilpattu but with one of the highest leopard densities in the world.

Bird lovers will love the Kumana National Park that houses the Kumana Bird Sanctuary. Nestled within the park are roughly about 255 species of birds. During April and July tens of thousands of birds migrate to the Kumana swamp area. Another park in Sri Lanka famous for bird watching is the Bundala National Park situated in the Southern Province.

Other Wildlife Park to trails through in Sri Lanka includes the Minneriya National Park-where the great Elephant Gathering takes place, Udawalawe and Wasgamuwa. For a different (and colder) wildlife experience in Sri Lanka, travel to the hill country to the Horton Plains where montane grassland and cloud forest house the giant sambar deer and grizzled giant squirrels among other creatures.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Ancol Dreamland

Indonesia’s beaches are famous world over and Bali and it’s beaches always take the forefront when it comes to tourism in Indonesia, however the capital of Jakarta has many places to explore. Travel to Jakarta can be a mind blowing experience to anyone visiting Indonesia. Being the capital of the country there are plenty of places for accommodation,Starwood Indonesia is one of great prominence among them as it ensures maximum luxury indulgence for all its guests.

Ancol dreamland or better known as Taman Impian Jaya Ancol by locals is one of the prominent places located on the waterfront of the Ancol Bay , a busy touristy resort destination. Opening its doors in 1966 the area is the largest integrated tourism area in South East Asia. The features of Ancol Dreamland include many features such as the golf courses , theme parks hotels and other recreational facilities.

The area features amusement parks in the Dunia Fantasi is one of Jakarta’s famous theme parks that is divided into eight sections and features over thirty rides and is perfect for the entire family to enjoy a day of pure thrill. Atlantis Water adventure park is another unmissable stop. Designed based on the mythological underworld of Atlantis. The park features many interesting features such as the wave pool, the waterfall pool and many slides of excitement awaits visitors.

Seaworld was the largest oceanarium in South East Asia when it began operations in1996. The main features here are the shark pool , alligator pool , sea friends pool and Antasena tunnel. The Golf course in Ancol recently got a revamp and is Indonesia’s first beachfront international Golf Course of 18 holes spreading over an extensive area. Getting to the park is possible by many links of transportation such as trains , taxis , buses and the latest addition is the Gondola , which is a cable car system.

 

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Na Muang Water Fall

Koh Samui has become a popular tourist destination in the recent years while Thailand itself has become a popular tourist stop in the East. Even though famous for its beaches Koh Samui is also famous for its tropical lush greens and the Na Muang Water Fall is truly one of nature’s blessings. Lying around 12 kilometers inland from the island’s beaches , the Na Muang Water Falls are truly a picturesque site.

Being a popular tourist destination there is no shortage of Luxury Resorts. Koh Samui is a perfect place to find resorts of such caliber. On that stands out the most is the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort & Spa. An ideal place to enjoy unmatched luxury by one of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Samui.

The Na Muang Water Fall is a set of two waterfalls one. Na Muang 1 is a waterfall that drops into a natural pool which is ideal to soak off the heat, as one proceeds further uphill for around thirty minutes, they can find the Na Muang 2 water fall which is of equal majesty.

The water fall area is ideal for families to spend the day hiking, swimming or just enjoying a picnic and most tours around Koh Samui do not fail to include a pits stop at these scenic falls. The nearby elephant safari camp also is quite famous among tourist as this allows them explore the lush jungles surrounding the falls. The path can be steep and slippery and quite challenging to people who aren’t of a certain level of fitness. There are also many stalls on the way to the falls that sell food , souvenirs and other little goodies.

There are many famous beaches not too far from the falls, which is great for a change. The perfect time to visit the falls would be September to November when the falls flow down as cascades.

 

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Things to Do in Doha

The bustling city of Doha is an engrossing metropolis to explore, offering a host of attractions for the visitor. When it comes to selecting Doha hotels an alluring choice would be the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara. This appealing resort offers many attractions for the modern traveller.

Doha is a vibrant city that provides an array of interesting things to do for the visitor. Shopping is a major local highlight, with both modern and traditional shopping opportunities on offer. You will find a selection of splendid modern malls, including such attractions as the vast Doha City Centre Mall and the Villaggio Mall with its classy Italian theme. On the other hand the traditional marketplaces offer a very different experience featuring bargains in the form of gold, jewellery, textiles, spices and more.

Naturally no visit to this city would be complete without taking the time to appreciate its distinctive culture and heritage. You will find numerous sightseeing attractions such as towers and forts in the environs of the city. Visitors will have the opportunity to view many traditional handicraft creations at the impressive Doha Fort. Another highlight is the Al Zubara Fort and Museum where you will find a host of interesting artefacts and antiques showcasing the history of the city. Not to be missed are the various museums where you will find an array of exquisite Islamic art.

Visitors should also undoubtedly take the opportunity to take a cruise on a traditional dhow sailing vessel. As you sail to the city’s Corniche you will be able to enjoy a sensational view of the splendid high-rise skyline. Another not-to-be-missed experience is the chance to go on a desert safari in the vast sandy expanses bordering the city. You will be able to undertake dune bashing in four wheel drive vehicles and obtain an understanding of the lifestyle of the nomadic Bedouins. With so much to see and experience a visit to Doha will always be memorable.

 

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Snorkeling in Maldives

All the islands in the Maldives are coralline. These reefs commonly surround a lagoon and have been described as the biggest natural swimming pools in the world. The lagoons have flat, sandy bottoms which are relatively shallow and great for children. The clear water ensures excellent underwater ensues excellent underwater visibility for divers and snorkelers. The pristine coral reefs have the most incredible underwater life that can never be imagined. A kaleidoscope of florescence colored fish in an underwater garden of coral reefs is certainly a spectacular sight. Ellaidhoo Island is a safe distance away from the busy world, this bit of private paradise is located on the eastern fringes of North Ari Atoll. The Ari Atoll, the largest of 22 natural atolls that make up the Maldive Islands, is located in the western side of the Maldives. Ellaidhoo, blessed with a spectacular offering for marine enthusiasts, is known over the world as the dive island in the Maldives. The Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo is one of the most luxurious Maldives Beach Resort. This luxury hotel is all about pampering and spoiling their guests, with a luxury of comforts. The hotel is on a beautiful sun-kissed beach, giving access to the sparkling turquoise ocean.

The older, larger islands in the chain have developed a layer of soil, made up of decomposing vegetation. Mangroves and banyan trees are plentiful along with the national trees, the classic coconut palm. The vegetation supports a rich bird life. Animal life on the island is also plentiful. There are over 100 species of indigenous flora, although there are 600 species on the islands. Turtles, practically Hawksbills, breed in the waters around the Maldives. Guests will be able to observe these remarkable creatures while also actively contributing to the conservation of these unique animals. Maldives has over 700 fish species. The islands has some incredible dive sites, which are often located in the channels between atolls where the speed of water movement allows for excellent drift diving. The islands have magnificent coral reefs and sparkling crystal clear lagoons. The island is also renowned world over, for its natural beauty. The best time to visit the islands, is in December.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Discover Birdlife at Yala

Fondly known by many epithets such as the Resplendent Isle, the island nation of Sri Lanka nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean is a haven for tropical and exotic birdlife and panoramic sceneries. Sri Lanka is home to around four hundred species of birds of which only around twenty are endemic to the island. The remainder is predominantly made up of migratory birds that travel to in search of a tropical climate, away from the harsh Scandinavian, European and Indian winters.

While a number of parks such as the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, the Biodhinala Sanctuary and Kumana National Park have been designated as official bird sanctuaries, other national parks such as the Wilpattu National Park, Wasgamua and Yala National Parks are also rich with flourishing bird communities. Visiting the Yala National Park is a must-do when in Sri Lanka and while a rich variety of Yala hotels are available, the national park can be accessed with ease from Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Also known as the Ruhunu National Park, Yala is a famous safari and wildlife destination for tourists and locals alike. Initially established 1938, Yala is home to an amazing variety of bird species as well as other animals. Visitors to Yala will be able to view the Black Necked Stork, the Malabar Pied, the Ceylon Grey Hornbill, the European Bea Eater, the Blue Faced Malkoha, the Yellow Fronted Pied, the Brown Capped Pygmy Woodpeckers, the Lesser Whistling Teal and the Green Bee Eater whose feathers create a camouflage effect as it fades into the greenish and brownish background of the park.

In addition to bird watching, when at the Yala Natoinal Park, visitors can also watch elephants in the wild, beautiful and colourful butterfly species as well as crocodiles and, if they are lucky, leopards. The Park is a wonderful natural getaway, both relaxing and awe-inspiring for any intrepid traveller.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
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4×4 Jeep Safari Adventure in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, and is one of the world’s most developed cities. Located on an island on the Persian Gulf, the city of Abu Dhabi is a global hub of commerce and finance. The city is also a thriving tourist destination, and is home to an array of attractions such as Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the Emirates Palace, Ferrari World, and the Etihad Towers. One of the most recommendable luxury resorts in Abu Dhabi is Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi.

One of the best ways to explore the uninhabited parts of Abu Dhabi is via a 4×4 Jeep safari. Owing to the rugged terrain of the desert and arid zones of Abu Dhabi, a 4×4 vehicle is the ideal way to cover to ground while traveling comfortably. There are many great sights you can witness is these areas of Abu Dhabi, and the experience is sure to be truly memorable.

The most popular type of 4×4 Jeep safari adventure is touring through the Arabian Desert. Here, not only will you get to observe the truly mesmerizing sights of the desert, but you will be able to witness the true power of a 4×4 jeep as it ploughs through the soft and silky sands and dunes. You may even come across herds of camels crossing the desert, a sight which is quite fascinating. However, desert safaris are not the only type of 4×4 jeep adventure offered by Abu Dhabi, as the many islands around Abu Dhabi, such as Sir Bani Yas, also offer great terrains and sights to be experience through 4×4 safari adventures. The Sir Bani Yas island experience, in particular, is known to be truly remarkable as it offers visitors a chance to witness the savannahs of these desert islands, and observe creatures such as Oryxes, gazelle, camels and many more. Look out for value-for-money 4×4 safari packages offered by tour and adventure centers.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Take a Bullock Cart Ride through the Village

Even with the rapid development witnessed by the 21st century, small villages in Sri Lanka remain largely untouched by the dramatic changes in transportation and lifestyle. A place where time seems to slow down and life becomes uncomplicated, most villages in the island scarcely witness fancy modes of transportation and stick to bullock carts to transport produce and other items from the fields to their homes or to the local village markets as they are cost efficient. A glimpse into this village lifestyle is a valuable insight tourists can obtain when staying at a Sigiriya hotel in the vicinity of the Habarana villages such as Chaaya Village Habarana. One such way, in addition to close proximity, is to indulge in a bullock cart ride through the village while a three wheeler, or in the more popular vernacular, a tuk tuk, would be the best way to explore the city.

A bullock cart ride is undeniably a very traditional mode of travel, but it is a modern way to explore the undisturbed village life in the rural areas. When travelling in a bullock cart, tourists will have the opportunity to travel through lush green paddy fields and observe the manner in which the villagers lead their daily lives. Since the roads are often mere footpaths, travelling by car would be highly uncomfortable, but the bullock cart traverses the well trodden country lanes with ease. The slow paced travel provides tourists with ample time and opportunity to witness the beauty and serenity of the village.

Exploring the nearby villages should also include a visit to a village house where tourists can have the opportunity to taste the delights of a ‘plain tea’ sweetened with a small piece of juggery. This coupled with an authentic Sri Lankan lunch of red rice and curry is bound to leave tourists yearning for the simple life.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
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Exploring the Rottnest Island: An Unforgettable Coastal Experience

Located a little beyond the coast of Perth in Western Australia, the Rottnest Island is considered a perfect vacation destination with its sun kissed beaches, azure waters and fascinating wild life. Able to reach either by a ferry ride or by air, this island is certainly worth visiting due to the picturesque views from the island and the array of exciting land and water based excursions.

The island is so named by a Dutch explorer due to the high population Quokkas, a quirky looking land dweller that resembles the common rat. For travelers who are keen on island hopping and exploring the Australian waters while wishing to stay on the mainland and seeking, Perth apartment accommodation, there are number of luxurious resorts and hotels such as the Citadines St Georges Terrace Perth that provides superior comforts and services after a day of exciting explorations.

The Rottnest Island provides ample opportunity for avid surfers as well as proving to be a great location for diving, snorkeling, boating, kayaking, sailing, swimming and fishing making it an ideal vacation destination for families, couples and groups of friends. The island is home to an impressive coral reef as well as daunting shipwrecks with information plaques that are bound to delight seasoned divers. There are also a number of land based activities for visitors to indulge in such as hiking, biking climbing, as well as golf and lawn bowls at the newly renovated Country Club and a family fun park with a games arcade and movie theatre.

After an exhausting day of exploration one can reenergize and freshen up by sampling from the many varieties of fresh seafood stands, cozy coffee shops, and sophisticated restaurants as well the popular island bar. Regardless of all other attractions, the island is definitely a must see destination during a holiday to Western Australia only for the stunning panoramic views from the higher grounds of the island, of the ocean vistas below.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+