Serious Fun River Surfing

The Kawarau River in Queenstown has since 1987, been the epicentre for river sledging or river surfing. A surfer from Hawaii – Jon Imhoof – who visited Queenstown, New Zealand unexpectedly had to have his stay extended. As such when he was looking for an alternative activity, he hit upon the idea of taking his board onto the water. It was then that it was discovered that the white water and rapids on the Kawarau River were ideal for an all new type of fun and adventure.

The Serious Fun River Surfing company was born on this discovery in 1989 and has since then been a pioneer in bringing this interesting and thrilling experience to many adventure seekers who travel from all corners of the globe to try their hand at this action packed activity.

Dividing the waterway into two sections, namely Chinese Dogleg and Roaring Megs, these surfing trips are undertaken twice a day from November to March and once a day during the months of April, May, September and October. Which section of the river is chosen for which trip largely depends on the weather conditions, rapids and water levels.

The Serious Fun River Surfing company provides all the necessary equipment including life jackets, fins, helmets, full steam wet suits and photos and videos of your experience and can be obtained after the trip. Refreshments too are provided after the four and a half hour trip of which almost two and a half hours will be spent on the water.

The company together with the sport has received many commendations and awards from many esteemed travel companies, travel sites and other related institutions. River surfing was in fact named the best water based thrill sport and Queenstown, the best place for it.

If you hope to visit the country and are on the lookout for Queenstown hotel accommodation, then be sure to choose one that is conveniently located.New Zealand Queenstown hotels are easy to find and if a convenient location and modern amenities are what you are looking for then Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is an ideal choice for your next visit to this scenic part of the country.

Mountaineering trips in Queenstown

If your inner mountain climber is aching to trek across some of the most splendid ranges in the world bar none, make a mountain excursion part of an adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand’s excitement haven. Invest in one of quality New Zealand Queenstown hotels such as the Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview. With luxury interiors and gracious hospitality, it is an ideal example of Queenstown hotel accommodation to host your stay here. Summits Mountain Guiding is an excellent resource to tap when you want to explore the mountains of Queenstown at your leisure, as part of a group or a partnership. This renowned name in the trade offers an array of excursions to suit your lifestyle and preferences, including 2 day courses that teach you everything from climbing skills, ice skills, and 5 days courses for more advanced mountaineers who want to brave the icy heights in search of adventure and excitement. True professionals in the field can even embark on the signature 10-day advanced mountaineers course that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. Featuring the expertise of trained mountaineers with decades of experience in navigating the mountains, you’ll be well looked after when you brave the NZ mountaineers as a rookie, or as a seasoned pro.

 

Kayaking in Koh Phangan

How does a kayaking trip around the beaches of Koh Phangan sound? If this is what you seek to accomplish in Koh Phangan then you are surely in for a treat. Koh Phangan resorts such as Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa would be a good place to stay from where you could hire a kayak. These Koh Phangan hotels would lead you to having the time of your life surrounded by calm seas and warm sunshine.

The area of Koh Phangan itself is linked with major fun-filled water sports activities out of which kayaking holds a special place. The waters off the west coast should be where one must go to in order to get the very best of kayaking experiences. One must be watchful so as to not get caught up with any ocean current for it is quite a battle to come out of. Areas such as Koh Ma and Wok Tum are the best places to start at while a trip to Haad Thian, Thong Nai Pan and Bottle Beach would certainly prove to be worth the trip. Be sure to not head out during the latter part of the day for the seas could make it extremely arduous to get back to shore.

Finding your Way

Koh Phangan, off the coast of southern Thailand is known for its idyllic bays, beaches and coves and the tropical landscape in its centre that is part coconut plantation and undisturbed stretches of rainforest. These natural features provide interesting jungle and beach walks.

Hiking is possible all over the island and there are many interesting trails. The central part of the island with its tropical canopy has barely visible mountain paths that are popular with hikers as are trails on the eastern part of the island that is still relatively underdeveloped. One popular trail runs from Haad Rin north to Haad Yuan on to Haad Thien, up to Thong Nai Pan and onto Haad Khuat or Bottle Beach. The route can become difficult in some spots and there is always the possibility of getting lost. An alternative is to ride a motorbike to the end of the concrete road at Haad Khom and then hike through the jungle and steep terrain to Bottle Beach. On the return, hikers can ride back to Chalok Lam in a taxi boat, take a 30 minute walk uphill to Haad Khom to pick up the bike or walk all the way from Chalok Lam. There is a good hike up to Phaeng waterfall in Phaeng National Park that is a steep 250 meter climb up a jungle trail. Walking up hill for about 15 minutes more takes hikers to Domesila look out that offers fantastic views. Khao Ra viewpoint, at 600 meters the highest hill on the island, can be accessed if hikers continue on this trail. The trail can be dangerous and difficult to follow. However there are GPS tracks to Khao Ra. Two trails lead to the top. The eastern trail seems to have fallen into disuse. This is a beautiful trail through jungle with big trees and waterfalls. The western trail goes through a cloud forest towards the top. Other interesting hikes to attempt is walking up 3 km, the full length of the Thaan Sadet waterfall in the north eastern part of the island as it is like a series of stepping stones. Thaan Prawet waterfall also in the north eastern part can be accessed from Thong Nai Pan Noi beach but the climb gets tougher as the trail moves further up. Several lovely spots on the way offer places to cool off and to take breaks. Wat Khao Tam lookout between Thong Sala and Haad Rin can be accessed via motorbike ride part of the way after which a short hike takes visitors up to the temple and the look out. Another interesting hike is to the lookout at Chalok Lam on the road to Haad Khom.

Things to remember when hiking, carry enough water and wear bug repellant, carry a GPS and map and return before sunset.

Savour the informal relaxing vibe at Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa that offers an idyllic tropical getaway complete with palm trees, stretches of white sandy beach and blue sea. As one of prominent Koh Phangan hotels guests have a choice of accommodation comprising of suites and villas all with plunge pools and private spaces, the best places to start a laid back holiday experience. As one of much lauded Koh Phangan resorts all those who stay here will experience services and facilities that are considered amazing and go a long way to make that perfect holiday experience.

Desert Biking

How about speeding across the golden sand dunes of Oman on board a bike? Seem interesting? Travel to Oman and experience the thrills and spills of desert biking that will give you a whole new perspective of a holiday in this country. Choose the luxury of a hotel in Oman that will be more than happy to assist you in planning your day’s journeys. Desert Nights Camp which comes across as one of the most sought after of Oman hotels would be a great place to come home to after a day out in the searing heat.
Go over the dunes at breakneck speed on your bike which is part of quad biking which is the term by which such an activity is referred to. Weave your way through the twists and turns that are sure to leave you covered in the golden sands of Oman. Leave the comfort of your hotel and savour the joy of this engaging experience that is bathed in hours of excitement and adrenaline. The seemingly infinite sands would pose the greatest of challenge to those looking for a different twist to their holiday in the charming surroundings of Oman. So what’s stopping you from grabbing the nearest quad bike and beginning an adventure you would always want to come back to.

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+

Bungy Jumping in Queenstown

Travellers to Queenstown have a plethora of activities to indulge in and bungy jumping is undoubtedly for the adventurous ones. To easily enjoy such activities, find ideally located Queenstown hotel accommodation, an option to consider in regard of which is Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront, a reputed Queenstown resort. Regarded as the region’s most thrilling activity, any daring leisure traveller can experience Bungy Jumping here. The first commercial bungy jump was opened by AJ Hackett in 1888, bringing New Zealand to the forefront of adventure sports. His jump was over the Kawarau Bridge, plunging over the Kawarau River. You will find three ideal sites for the activity in Queenstown and expect to experience the adrenaline rush of a lifetime!

 

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Maldives –Underwater Perfection

The islands of the Maldives offer all visitors the chance to engage in pure bliss. In addition to its lush beaches that are geared to take your breath away, the Maldives boasts some of the most fascinating underwater scenery. The fecund Indian Ocean that frames the 1,190 islands that comprise this fantastic nation is rich in fish, corals, and sponges and exhibit spectacular colors and a healthy biodiversity. There are so many modes to view this underwater world but nothing quite matches up to the authentic exploration experience that you can enjoy with scuba diving and snorkelling.

Throughout the world, the Maldives is known as one of the finest destinations for a fascinating diving experience. This little nation actually consists of 26 different atolls that boast some immaculate underwater scenery. In addition to the beauty, the water happens to be crystal clear with perfect visibility. Even the water temperature is perfect, making a dip into this ocean absolutely blissful. There are several diving spots in Maldives each with its own highlights; some have ship wrecks, others have caves, some are abundant in school fish, and others have the bigger predators. A couple of favorite spots include the North Maale Atoll, the Vaavu Atoll, the Lankanfinolhu and the Lhaviyani Atoll. Fish you are likely to encounter in these spot include Reef Sharks, Manta Rays, Barracuda, Travelly, the Snapper fish and eels, among others.

If you are not quite up for the challenge that the scuba diving would impose, try a lesser but equally exciting activity of snorkelling. This enjoyable pastime is relatively easy and safe and gives plenty of opportunity to enjoy the reefs of the Maldives without straying too far from the shore. In this activity, you are likely to encounter numerous species of beautiful Reef fish that boast an array of exquisite colors. Snorkeling can also be enjoyed at night time where the flashlight illuminating the ocean gives one a completely different experience.

While choosing an ideal Maldives Resort to stay at, consider a prime property such as the Anantara Veli Maldives. Its gracious surrounds provide peaceful overwater Maldives bungalows with exquisite facilities and unmatched views are designed to make you fall in love with the Maldives, over and over again.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.

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Freefalling at over 200km/h

The city of Dubai, located within the Arabian Emirate of the same name, is one of the most developed and popular Middle Eastern cities. A city with a rich history and vibrant culture, Dubai is known for its thriving economy which is powered by its booming oil, tourism, and financial industries. Its many historic and modern attractions, bustling shopping and retail districts, and many recreational and leisure attractions make it a top tourist destination as well.

There are many things that one can do in Dubai to blow off some steam or to get a mind blowing adrenaline rush. But nothing beats the likes of freefalling at speeds of over 200km/h over the city of Dubai, which is exactly what Skydive Dubai offers you! Skydiving, ever since it became an extreme sport which anyone can do, has been known as one of the most exhilarating and adrenaline pumping activities. So if you are in the mood for a heart stopping adrenaline rush, leap off a plane into the skies of Dubai with Skydive Dubai.

Skydive Dubai, a premier skydiving centre, is a great place to go skydiving as it not only offers you a high quality experience but it also offers some great views on your decent from thousands of feet in the air. Skydive Dubai is located in the awe-inspiring and man-made Palm Jumeria Island. The island itself is known for its amazing shape and design, which seem even more amazing when viewed from the top, so you can be assured that you will be dazzled while being thrilled while skydiving!

Skydive Dubai is staffed by professional skydivers who work to ensure that your descent back to the ground will be both exciting as well as safe. Skydiving at Skydive Dubai is done in tandems, which means that you have a professional instructor with you at all times so that your safety is always ensured. Having successfully orchestrated over 7000 jumps, Skydive Dubai is most certainly one of the best places you can skydive.

If you are looking for tranquil accommodation in Dubai during your time here, consider making a reservation at the Anantara Dubai the Palm Resort & Spa. This luxury resort belongs to the prestigious Anantara group and offers accommodation in range of stylish rooms and plush villas. This Palm Jumeirah Hotel also offers a wide range of luxury amenities and guest services such as fine dining, spa treatment, and recreational services, making it an ideal hotel for a memorable stay.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.

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Parasailing in Maldives

The warm, humid weather of the Maldives beckons for you to try out a variety of water sports activities that are both thrilling and action-packed. When in the Maldives you simply have to dive into adventure which will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Parasailing is one such activity that can be enjoyed by staying at Adaaran Prestige Water Villas which is home to a range of Maldives water villas. Such villas in Maldives will out you in the mood for the outdoors and stimulate the adventurer in you.
Get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding coral islands that constitute the Maldives while being suspended high up in the air with only a parachute and a motor boat below to keep you on course. Beat the local temperatures and welcome the cool breeze as you savour a quite breathtaking experience. Have the ultimate adrenaline rush as you speed through the air while being bathed in sea spray. Watch as hotel resorts and white sandy beaches seem but mere specks in the horizon as you rise higher and higher in the sky.

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+

Hiking in Hong Kong

While Honk Kong is known for its rich culture, you might be surprised to know that it is also a destination that provides a wealth of opportunities when it comes to hiking. From pristine beaches to ancient monuments, hiking here provides hours of fun and adventure. Before embarking on your outdoor excursions look to find accommodation at a Hong Kong boutique hotel that will help make your stay that much more memorable. Cosmo Hotel is one such example and provides a 4 star hotel Hong Kong that lets you enjoy the very best the city has to offer.

When it comes to hiking in Hong Kong there are many routes to choose from, each offering something new to discover. On Hong Kong Island one can head off along the Dragon’s Back trail which takes hikers to such sites as Shek O Country Park before ending at Tai Long Wan which is known for being an ideal point for surfing. Not to be missed is a chance to go on the Peak Circle Walk that leads to the famous area known as The Peak and from where one can enjoy stunning views of Victoria Harbour. If you want to explore Kowloon then look to hike along Sha Tin Pass Road to Kowloon Reservoir which includes points such as Beacon Hill and Lion Rock. Wildlife enthusiasts should also look to hike in the New Territories where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of places such as the Nam Sang Wai wetlands.

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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