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Beach Travel in Marawila

Located around 30km away from Negombo Beach, Marawila is a secluded stretch of coastline that is perfect for travelers who appreciate a bit of seclusion and privacy. Take in the picturesque sights of pristine beaches, lush tropical plantations, and tranquil lagoons all in quiet comfort.

Relax at the Beach

Undoubtedly, Marawila’s white sandy beaches are its star attractions. As mentioned, most of the beach areas are secluded, letting you relax and bask in the tropical sun in peace. That being said, the area isn’t completely deserted by any means, you will find a number of cafes and clubs dotted around if you’re looking for some company.

Go Exploring

Marawila is located in close proximity to a number of exciting travel destinations – particularly some of the island’s premier natural hotspots. Sri Lanka’s largest national park the Wilpattu is only a couple of hours’ drive away, and then, of course, there is Negombo town to the south. Any reputed Marawila beach hotel in Sri Lanka will include these destinations in their itineraries – like Amagi Beach for example – so be sure to consult with them too!

Take a Dive

The calm blue waters that lie beyond Marawila’s beaches are home to an impressive array of marine life, especially in the coral reefs found in the shallows. Jump in the water and go snorkeling to get up close and personal with a fantastic variety of fish and other sea creatures.

Try Some Toddy

Marawila has a thriving community of local toddy tappers, often spotted atop coconut trees going about their business. Toddy itself is a mildly alcoholic drink that bears a similar taste to cider. So then, after a long day spent at the beach or exploring, why not relax, unwind and sip some freshly brewed toddy?

Explore Denpasar

Denpasar, the capital city of Bali, is a hub of art, culture and tradition. The site of the annual Bali Arts Festival, Denpasar is a popular and important stop for most travellers touring through Bali, and it’s full of its own unique sites and attractions.

Getting Around and Accommodations

Denpasar’s central location makes it easily accessible from the major tourist locations in the South; areas like Kuta and Seminyak can be reached within 30 minutes – provided the traffic isn’t too bad. The local taxi services are reliable and can be used to access most parts of Denpasar. There is also a bus service in Ubung which connects Denpasar with the other major cities of Bali. There’s plenty of accommodation options to choose from as well, particularly in Seminyak. Hotels such as the Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach are full of amenities that’ll keep you comfortable in-between your excursions in the city.

Brush up on History

Denpasar is a city that boasts a long and storied history; a fact that becomes readily apparent when visiting the main square. Here you’ll find the office of the Governor, the Bali museum and the very first hotel opened in Bali – aptly named the Bali Hotel. The imposing Bajra Sandhi Monument lies at the heart of the square and visitors can venture inside it to learn more about the Balinese’s struggle with colonialism via beautiful dioramas.

Experience Balinese Art and Culture

Denpasar is also a great location to experience Balinese arts – from paintings to music and dance. By venturing to the city’s eastern suburbs you’ll be able to visit the Bali Art’s Centre. Visitors can Balinese art like the famous woodcarvings and traditional garbs at the centre’s art museum. Various dance and music numbers are also performed at the amphitheatre during regular intervals.

Visiting the Market

A trip to Denpasar would not be complete without a visit to the curious Pasar Badung Market. The main stalls are all located in a vintage three-story building, while the surrounding area is full of all manner of goods and even has a small temple. This is the perfect place to treat your palate with some exotic Thai seafood or for picking out a souvenir.

Udawattekele in Kandy

The Udawattekele Forest Reserve is the historic royal park that crawls across the uppermost spine of the Kandyan plateau. It spans 257 acres and was once known as “Uda Wasala Watte” which means “the gardens above the palace.”

Senkada and Rajasinghe

Ancient records state that there was once a brahmin called Senkada who dwelled in the caves in Udawattekele and that was how Kandy got one of its older names; Senkadagala. The cave was visible on a walk through the forest reserve until 2012 when it collapsed in a landslide. The gardens were used as a pleasure garden by the kings of Kandy and were forbidden to the public.

Colonial Era

During the colonial era, the British used some of the lands to construct a garrison and pathways that today are used and disused trails through the reserve. On the south-eastern side stands an abandoned British garrison now overgrown. It was attacked by Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe’s forces in 1803 and the British troops manning the garrison were massacred.

The Fall of the Kingdom

After the Fall of the Kandyan Kingdom, the forest was subject to human activity including clearing and logging. Its condition deteriorated until it was declared a forest reserve in 1856 and made a sanctuary in1938.

Important Part of the Plateau

The Kandy lake is fed from springs that originate in Udawattekele. It also carries out air purification thanks to its elevation and placement above the city. There are many a hotel in Kandy that are in close proximity to make it to the sanctuary in under a couple of minutes. The reserve is only 10 minutes’ drive from Kandy town so you can easily get to it from a hotel in Kandy that is comfortable and spacious like Kings Pavilion.
The forest is home to endemic trees such as Madatiya, Tel Kekuna and Ankenda. There is a dense spread of flora thus restricting sunlight from reaching the underground layer. Some of the species of creeper are over 200 to 300 years old.

Most adventurous hikes in South Korea

When 70% of the landscape of South Korea is mountains, it’ll be a loss if you don’t plan a hike or two during your days in this destination. You don’t necessarily need to be a hiker to have this experience if you have even a slight passion for adventure- this is something you should try out!

Seoraksan – the tallest and the prettiest

Seoraksan’s highest peak is Daecheongbonh which is about 5600 feet high. The treks will not exceed 3 hours for sure, and you will surely be rewarded with sensational views all the way.

Bukhansan- lungs of Seoul

If you are staying at a hotel near Myeongdong Station the likes of Travelodge Myeongdong Euljiro, traveling to the Bukhansan National Park will take less than 1 hour, this is where you will find the Bukhansan Mountain.

Taebaeksan – where you can see snow flowers

This is a mountain that generally blooms in the winter and if you plan your hike during this season, you will be lucky to see tree branches sparkle with frozen snow!

Songnisan – the best for sight seekers

Songnisan is popular as one mountain range that has magnificent mountains. The best views are available if you plan your hike during the autumn season.

The Knuckles Forest Reserve

The Knuckles Mountain Range is located in the central highlands of Kandy and is a famous range of mountains that dissect the central province from the Matale District.

A Biodiverse Hotspot

The Knuckles are considered a biodiversity hotspot and are situated at 3000 ft above sea level covering an area of 21 hectares. The range has five peaks: Kirigalpoththa, Gombaniya, Knuckles, Koboneelagala and Dotulugala.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The misty mountains were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in in 2009 after being declared a climate reserve in 1873. It is one of two UNESCO World Heritage nature sites in the country and is home to many Knuckles Sri Lanka hotels.

Climate and Weather

The climate in the Knuckles can range from very hot to freezing cold. During the season of January to March, there are instances of reported frost on the higher elevations.

Distinct Features

The Knuckles massif separates the hills of the Dumbara valley in a deep gorge. There are many picturesque waterfalls and several hiking trails each with their distinct features. Wild Glamping Knuckles is one of the ways you can choose to spend a comfortable hike in the mountains.

The Forest Reserve Diversity

The reserve has a list of 1033 species of plants of which 15% are endemic to the region. There are 128 species of birds, 31 species of mammals and 20 species of amphibians.

Attractions in Melbourne

Australia’s second-largest city with plenty on offer. Here are a few spots you must include in your holiday itinerary when in Melbourne.

Federation Square

Federation square opened up in 2002 to commemorate 100 years of federation. This spot has become an integral part of the city and also a great place for tourists to start their sightseeing.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Amongst the many Melbourne city attractions, you’ll have to take the time to visit the Royal Botanic Gardens. Close to many a hotel, the likes of Avani Central Melbourne Residences, the gardens cover an area of 38 hectares and boast over 8500 species of plants.

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbourne is known for its love of sports – there it is no surprise that a sports stadium is among the city’s top tourist attractions. MCG is known the world over and is considered one of the world’s greatest stadiums.

National Gallery of Victoria

This is the oldest public art gallery in Australia, holding more than 70,000 works of art in two city locations. The building is renowned for The Great Hall, where visitors are encouraged to lie on the floor and gaze at the colour stained glass ceiling!

Tamborine Mountain

The Tamborine Mountain region has quite a rich history and is home to stunning national parks and rainforests. Read on to find out what you can do when you’re here!

High up in the skies!

If you’re up for a great start, you have the chance to witness the stunning sunrise from above the Tamborine mountain – Hot Air Balloon Scenic Rim takes you up into the sky, gifting you with awe-inspiring 360 – degree views of the landscape. After you’ve completed your things to do in Broadbeach, head over here, which is less than an hour away!

On top of the world!

Don’t miss out on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk – which will give you the full idea as to how beautiful Mount Tamborine really is. You can wander among the treetops and follow the path that leads you to the cantilever that stands 30 metres above, offering sweeping views of the area!

Chase waterfalls

Make an early start from your hotel or apart-hotel such as Avani Broadbeach Gold Coast Residences and put on your walking shoes as you go exploring the waterfalls! There are several paths you can follow, so pick the one you feel like you’ll enjoy the most!

Korkut Tas, Curtis Falls Mt. Tamborine – panoramio, CC BY-SA 3.0

Fun Adventure Sports in Phuket

If you are looking for a holiday that’s thrilling and full of adventure, then Phuket has plenty to offer! Here are some of the best activities that you can try.

Kayaking & Stand-up Paddleboarding

An activity that is perfect for exploration, kayaking & stand-up paddleboarding provide a great cardio workout too! In Phuket, real estate, hotel and resort options can be found beside the coast where you can enjoy these family-friendly water sports amidst stunning natural beauty.

Scuba Diving

A water sport that takes you to magical underwater worlds, scuba diving in Phuket offers an unforgettable escapade in the Andaman Sea. Be you staying at beachside resorts or residing in private villas such as those at Layan Residences by Anantara, you can easily plan diving excursions; destinations like Phi Phi Island and Anemone Reef are rich in coral and marine life worth witnessing.

Bungy Jumping

Bungy jumping is an adventure sport that will give you plenty to scream about! Jungle Bungy Jump close to Patong is where you can try this activity and enjoy the thrill of leaping off a platform 50 metres in the air. Those afraid to do it solo can always choose the tandem bungy jump option.

Ziplining

Here’s your chance to soar through the trees and experience that Tarzan-like feeling! Ziplining in Phuket can be tried by the whole family and lets you speedily zip through lush forests or jungles. Be it at Flying Hanuman or Cable Jungle Adventure, ziplining offers a unique perspective of the island’s natural scenery too.

Kuang Si Falls

The Kuang Si falls is a must-visit if you are nature lover who is holidaying at or are passing through Luang Prabang.

Image credit-Benh LIEU SONG, Kuang Si Waterfalls Luang Prabang Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

About Kuang Si falls

The waterfalls from a height of about 200 feet and a trail beginning at the shallow bottom pools take you right to the top of the Kuang Si Falls. The colour of the water is a beautiful aqua blue and makes for a great photo backdrop too.

Why you must visit Kuang Si falls

This gorgeous work of nature is a favourite side quest for the travellers in Luang Prabang and if you want to have a bit of nature time in your trip, add this to your list.

Getting there

Being about 30 kilometres away from the south of Luang Prabang hotels, this waterfall will take about two hours to get to if you leave from Avani+ Luang Prabang, for instance.

Entrance

You will be charged a fee of 20,000 kips to gain access to the falls, but it is definitely worth the cash since the trails and paths are so clean and amazingly maintained by the people of Luang Prabang. Most of the pools here can be swum in except one or two, which are holy.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.Google+

Backpacking through Adelaide

Adelaide isn’t considered when planning a vacation to Australia as people wrongly assume there is nothing to see there but churches and provincial life.

Adelaide does not have any vast natural wonders or man-made wonders that are as iconic as the Sydney Harbour bridge or Uluru, but if you are planning to backpack in Australia, Adelaide is the place to be.

Backpacking Tips

Just because you are backpacking you don’t have to sleep out in the boonies. You could save up on the other things and not spend a lot of time looking for places to stay in Melbourne. If you are looking for a central location stay at a hotel like Avani Adelaide Residences.

Go Cheap When You Can

Go cheap when you can and carry the minimal with you when you are travelling to make the most of a backpacking trip in Adelaide. This doesn’t mean you need to spend the whole holiday on a budget. You could get a work visa instead of a holiday visa when you visit and that would enable you to work during your holiday and earn as you spend.

You could also shop from bargain shops, drink during happy hours and do a little research into what sort of offers are available for the duration of your stay in the city.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+