Explore the Whistler Village

Whistle Village is perhaps Canada’s most famous ski resort destination. Nestled between the towering Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, Whistler Villages is simply paradise for anyone passionate about winter sports and thrill-seeking.

A Gondola Ride

Most Whistler hotel and resort establishments – for example, the Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside – will include a host of activities in their itinerary list, and most of them will start off by mentioning the amazing peak-to-peak gondola ride! Take in stunning views of the mountain valleys as you travel from Whistleblower to Blackcomb from up on high!

Experience the Local Culture

IF you want to get a flavour of Whistler Village’s local culture and history, head on over to the First Nations Museum. Here you will find fascinating relics belonging to the local Squamish and Lil’wat people – from masks and attire to hunting utensils. You can even book a tour here and enjoy some traditional Squamish dishes to end the day!

Winter Sports

Of course, the main draw of Whistler Village is the winter sports, so be sure to try some out for yourself! In particular, consider an exciting bike ride through the mountains at Whistler Mountain Bike Park or try out bungee jumping to get the adrenaline flowing.

Hiking Opportunities

The areas surrounding Whistler Village are perfect for a great hiking or camping trip. Locations such as Lost Lake or Garibaldi National Park are prime for an outing – here you’ll find a stunning array of natural beauty, be it the distant mountains, lush vegetation, or unique wildlife.

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Whistler Village is a great destination for those interested in winter sports or for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors – try activities like mountain biking and camping!

Hiking the Dragon Crest Mountain Trail

Hiking enthusiasts heading to Krabi should not miss exploring the Dragon Crest Mountain Trail which is among the area’s best loved trekking hubs for travellers and locals alike.

Dragon Crest Mountain at a Glance

Known as Khao Ngon Nak in the local tongue, Dragon Crest Mountain is no ordinary hiking hub in Krabi. With a 3.7km long hiking trail that leads to some of the most spectacular viewing points in the area, it is a must explore highlight for all visitors. Accessible free of charge, the mountain is easy to navigate even for the least experienced hikers. The entire hike takes no more than 2 and a half hours or even an hour, depending on one’s own fitness and hiking prowess. The best reward of the hike awaits travellers who reach the top as it is said that all of Krabi lays open before one’s eyes.

Reaching Dragon Crest Mountain

The best way to reach the Dragon Crest Mountain is to hop on a motorbike taxi or a rented motorcycle and drive up to the location. It is important to carry bottles of water and snacks as there are few shops at the base of the mountain. Those based at Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort or any similar hotel in Ao Nang Krabi can get a picnic to go or a hamper full of snacks prepared in advance. The hiking trail also closes to visitors by 5pm so heading there early in the morning is recommended.

The Experience

Well marked with various points designated, the trail is easy to navigate. Hikers will also find picturesque areas and viewpoints on the way to the top so don’t forget to bring a camera.

Jebel Shams of Oman

The Jebel Shams is one of the most beautiful places in the world that you can visit not only in Oman but in the whole world. It is part of the spectacular Grand Canyon of Arabia – the Al Nakhr Canyon.

Introduction

There are plenty of things to do when you go to the Jebel Shams which is what makes it a must-visit attraction for sightseeing in Oman.

Image Credit: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

For Camping

The Jebel Shams is referred to as the Mountain of the Sun in Arabic because it is the first place that receives sunrise in Oman. It is a great place to go camping or if you’d like to talk to your local hotel like Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort for glamping options.

Stargazing and Night Photography

The Jebel Shams is a great place to go stargazing or for long exposure night photography. However, the conditions have to be great as well as it being a moonless night. Thanks to it being away from light pollution areas it can guarantee great shots.

Image Credit: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort 

Hiking

There are three major hike routes in the Jebel Shams which include the Al Nakhur Rim hike, Al Khitaym to Wadi Ghul hike and the Jabal Shams summit hike. The summit is not the highest point which is inaccessible due to there being a military outpost situated there.

 

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
Seoraksan | Image Credit : Taewangkorea, Dinosaur Ridge of Seoraksan, CC BY-SA 4.0

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.

Image credit: flickr.com

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.

Backpacking Adelaide Travel Guide

Backpacking is a fun and exciting thing to do, especially as you learn a lot of skills and knowledge as time goes by. Here are some tips when you backpack in Adelaide!

Cost

Adelaide is known to be one of the easily affordable cities in Australia so you won’t have to fret too much! For the first few days, those who are looking for the best hotel in Adelaide can consider staying at places such as Avani Adelaide Residences before you start on your adventures.

Image Credit: Avani Adelaide Residences

Cooking

Once you get started on your backpacking, the best way to save money is to buy your own groceries and cook at home. You can even improve your cooking skills as you do this!

Bargain shopping

In need of something? Then you can always go bargain shopping. There’s always a sale in Adelaide, so you’re in luck.

Travellers travel photobook from Melbourne, Australia, Australia, Adelaide – SA (28182515789)CC BY 2.0

Free things to do

There are plenty of fun and free things to do in Adelaide. Do your research first so that you can experience these and save some money.

 

Mount Phou Si

Ever heard of the sacred mountain in Luang Prabang with a challenging flight of 300 stairs with a magnificent panoramic view as a reward? Yes, this article speaks of none other than Mount Phousi which is a must-see attraction here. Here are a few things to know if you plan on visiting the mountain.

Gerd Eichmann, Luang Prabang-Phou Si-06-gje, CC BY-SA 4.0

Entrance fees and timing

The entrance fee for the mountain is about 20,000 kip. The fare will be collected once you are halfway uphill. Also, the mountain is open for sightseeing from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm.

A Sacred Mountain

Mount Phousi translates to “sacred mountain” or “sacred hill”. It bears great significance to the Buddhists in the local area. On the stairways, flower vendors and bird vendors sit, selling. their blessing offerings to visitors. Remember to dress appropriately and respect the peaceful atmosphere here.

Wat Chom Si

This is a temple with a golden stupa on the top of the mountain which was built in 1804. With the temple is a grotto that shelters a big statue of Buddha which is worshipped by the locals with offerings and prayers.

Allie CaulfieldWat Chom Si stupa (2009a)CC BY 2.0

Best time to visit

Mount Phousi offers breath-taking views of both the sunrise and the sunset. However, if you want to avoid the mad rush of crowds, its better to be there before sunrise. This would be even more convenient if you are lodged at Avani+ Luang Prabang or another hotel in Luang Prabang a short distance away from the property.

Gerd EichmannLuang Prabang-Phou Si-14-Sonnenuntergang-gjeCC BY-SA 4.0

 

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!

simone.brunozziTamborine Mountain 3CC BY-SA 2.0

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 – panoramioCC BY-SA 3.0

 

A Hiker’s Guide to Sri Lanka’s Knuckles Mountain Range

The knuckles mountain range lies in central Sri Lanka and is a popular spot for hikers. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the ideal location for those interested in hiking. Here’s more information for you!

Image by: Free-Photos  via pixabay | CC0

Hiking the mountain range

Considered a rather tough hiking trail in the country, it’s best attempted by those who have a history of experience behind them. It’s best if you have a guide when exploring Knuckles Sri Lanka, hotels in the vicinity such as the unique Wild Glamping Knuckles as it’s easy to lose track of where you are!

Mini World’s End

Located south of the mountain range lies ‘Mini World’s End’, as the name suggests, is a 1,192-metre cliff offering the best views of the mountains. The trail begins at the Knuckles Conservation Centre and is roughly 1.5 kilometres in length.

Nitro Caves

Another popular trail is the nature trail leading to the Nitro Caves, a massive cave that hundreds of bats call home. This 11-kilometre trek begins at the Corbett’s Gap and takes roughly five hours to complete.

Tips

Although streams are aplenty, there is a high chance some of them may have dried up. Therefore, it is best to bring enough water bottles and re-fill them at every stream you pass!

A Hiker’s Guide to the Hills of Kandy

The Knuckles Mountain Range is a dense forest-covered mountain range that is among the most popular and one of the toughest hiking trails in Sri Lanka. There are smaller, easier hiking trails like the one situated in the vicinity of Hunas Falls, which is also as picturesque and breath-taking. Here are some of the most popular trails and adventures.

Dothalugala Nature Trail

This trail winds along the Dothalugala mountain and provides some of the most beautiful views of the south side of the mountain range. The whole trail extends 5.8 kilometres and once the circuit has been completed, you will have made it a full circle around the mountain.

Mini World’s End

Named Mini World’s End because it too is a sheer drop of 1,192 metres like the World’s End at Horton Plains, this trail snakes across two other trails. Since it begins in the Knuckles Conservation Centre, you will need a permit to enter the reserve. If you are staying in a hotel in Kandy, you can ask for more information.

Nitro Caves

An eleven-kilometre path which begins at Corbett’s Gap and extends for 5 hours leads to the Nitro Caves which is a massive cave full of bats.

Duwili Ella Trail

Duwili Ella| Img by: Gayan Rajapakshe via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The most spectacular hike, Duwili Ella trail ends in a 40-metre waterfall deep within the forest. There is also a cave behind the waterfall which is what makes this hike most spectacular.

 

 

 

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+