Land - The Adventure Travel Site

The Ultimate Ski Guide

Skiing is no easy walk in the park. But for those who with a craving for adventure, mastering this sport shouldn’t be much of a challenge. Here’s what you should know before you try your hand at skiing during your stay at a Whistler hotel.

Learn the Rules

Look out for the figures on trail markers! Particularly in North America, you will find that a green circle marks an easy trail for first-timers whereas a black diamond with an exclamation mark would mark a trail that should only be attempted by highly-skilled skiers.

Know the Basics

A practical skiing lesson might be the best way of familiarizing yourself with skiing basics. Some properties in Canada, for instance, Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside, offers lessons that will help you master the basics.

Test out the Bunny Slope

A bunny hill includes ski lifts – a carpet lift or rope tow would help you discover skiing with its support mechanisms.

Hold Yourself Correctly

Skiing in Whistler|Image by Scott Hughes via Flickr

If you lean too far behind, you’ll note how it becomes increasingly difficult for you when it comes to taking a turn, making you lose control. Keep your knees bent as needed and your hands in front to maintain balance.

Thai Phrases to Learn Before Your Visit

While those who do not speak Thai can fully enjoy a holiday in Thailand, it always helps to know some local phrases to use with the people you meet.

“Khap” and “Kha”

Before getting into phrases to use be it in Bangkok or at a hotel Khon Kaen has to offer, you need to differentiate between “Khap” and “Kha”. They are used at the end of sentences and denote a sign of respect; the main thing to keep in mind is that “Khap” is only used by male speakers and “Kha” only by females.

Typical Greeting

From meeting locals to interacting with staff at properties like Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, the greeting you should learn is “Sawasdee”, which is the equivalent of “hello”. As mentioned, depending on the gender, the ending will differ; males will say “Sawasdee Khap” and females, “Sawasdee Kha”.

General Phrases

Also learn phrases such as “Sabai Dee Mai?” which is like asking “how are you?”, “Khop Khun Khap / Kha” the equivalent of “thank you” and “Mai Pen Rai” when you need to say “you’re welcome”. This phrase can also come in handy; say “Haawng Naam Yuu Tee Nai?” when you need to find the bathroom!

Other Phrases

Here are some other phrases that can be useful on your travels in Thailand; keep in mind, a big part of conversing here is to be polite and non-confrontational too.

• Ni Tao Rai? – How much is this?
• Paeng – Too costly
• Mai Khao Jai – I don’t understand
• Aroy – Delicious
• Kor Tot – Excuse me

Guide to Adventure and Do Fun Things in Dubai

Dubai is a highly-sought destination by luxury holidaymakers and adventure seekers. Here are some of the best things to do in Deira Dubai.

Skydive at iFLY Dubai

Skydiving is a thrilling activity, which can be terrifying for some. Why not take it slow by opting to skydive indoors at iFLY Dubai in Mirdif City Centre – the largest indoor adventurous-activity centre in the UAE.

Experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar over the glistening desert of Dubai with the help of a serene hot air balloon ride – witness a glorious bird’s-eye view of these spectacular desertscapes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Enter a World of Illusions

Do you simply love tricks and illusions? Then don’t miss a visit to the Museum of Illusions in Dubai, which is located within a 17-minute driving distance from Avani Deira Dubai Hotel via Tariq Bin Ziyad Road.

Be Part of a Camel Safari

If you want to explore the desert in the most authentic way, Camel Desert Safari would be the way to go! Enjoy a 45-minute journey on these calm, breathing ships of the desert after which you could get entertained with cultural shows such as traditional Emirati dances and drumming sessions.

Exploring the Ruins of Ancient Carthage

Found in present-day Tunisia, Ancient Carthage has a rich history and though many of its once grandiose structures are in ruins, this UNESCO World Heritage Sites still offers much to discover.

Archaeological Park

Amongst the key sites in Ancient Carthage, the Archaeological Park offers insights into the city’s history including when it was under Roman rule. Within easy reach of properties like The Residence Tunis by Cenizaro, this site is home to graves from the 5th century BC, an underground burial chapel, Roman cisterns and more.

Baths of Antonine

Dating to the 2nd century AD, these ruins of an expansive Roman bath complex overlooking the Mediterranean is also worth visiting from a Tunis hotel. While only several columns and the foundations are to be found, you can imagine what it would have been like in the days when Romans used these baths.

Theatre & Roman Villas

Overlooking the ocean and constructed on a hillside, this ancient Roman theatre offers a captivating sight on Avenue Reine Didon. Nearby, is a park in which one can see ancient Punic shaft graves as well as the restored 3rd century Villa des Volières, which features fragments of sculpture and lovely views from the terrace.

Carthage National Museum

A great place to learn more about Ancient Carthage, the Carthage National Museum showcases key artefacts that were found at the historical sites and ruins. You can get a clearer idea of what the city would have been like as well as view a wide range of exhibits from sarcophagi and jewellery to sarcophagi.

Must-try Water Sports in the Maldives

The beautiful atolls of the Maldives offer so much more than it meets the eye. Apart from the fascinating village excursions and the diverse cuisine it offers, the array of activities in Maldives – particularly water sports hold a massive attraction for its visitors.

Jet Skiing

Jet skiing is the ultimate treat for those who love speed – and nature! Set yourself free with this adrenaline-fuelled activity when you choose to stay at properties such as The Nautilus Maldives.

Snorkelling

Slip beneath the azure waters around the Maldives islands for an experience of a lifetime; explore the colourful reefs and the vibrant lives that thrive around them.

Banana Boat Rides

Here’s a fun activity to be experienced with your friends or family – get on an inflatable banana-shaped boat and get towed at high-speed into the shallow sea.

Parasailing

Attach yourself to a colourful parasail wing and be gently lifted into the sky (with the help of a speedboat, of course!) With this activity, you can experience the thrill of flying like a bird while revelling in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Wildlife Safaris in Mozambique

In the African nation of Mozambique, wildlife safaris are not only land-based but can be experienced in the water too! Here are some of the best spots for such experiences.

Bazaruto National Park

Home to a protected marine reserve, the Bazaruto National Park covers an archipelago with several islands. Those staying here including at the property of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas can explore the waters of the park and encounter dolphins, whales, sharks, manta rays, sailfish, turtles and endangered dugongs too.

Quirimbas National Park

Enjoying water-based safaris at the Quirimbas National Park is amongst the best things to do; Mozambique gives travellers a chance to explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which has thriving wildlife including turtles, migrating humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, leopard sharks, crocodile fish and more.

Gorongosa National Park

For wildlife safaris in Mozambique on dry land, a popular choice would be Gorongosa National Park. Apart from guided safari drives, there are canoe and boat safaris here too; on your adventures, you may spot elephants, lions, impalas, warthogs, baboons, crocodiles, hippos and not forgetting more than 500 bird species.

Niassa Reserve

The country’s largest conservation area, the Niassa Reserve is another wildlife hotspot with thousands of elephants, buffalos and sables along with many zebras and Lichtenstein’s hartebeests. Smaller populations of wildebeest, kudu, hippo, leopard, lion and African wild dog can also be seen for an unforgettable safari.

Best Adventure-filled Outdoor Activities to Try Out While in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a fabulous destination for adventurous souls seeking to indulge in adrenaline-inducing activities. They will have access to a variety of thrilling adventures during a stay at one of the 4-star hotels in Hong Kong.

Kayak at Sundown

Located approximately 18.9 kilometres away from Park Hotel Hong Kong is Sai Kung and kayaking across its pristine waters, especially at sundown, is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Go Ziplining at Tung Lung Chau

One of the most thrilling outdoor activities in Hong Kong, Ziplining at Tung Lung Chau is an incredibly exhilarating experience – get over your fear of heights and get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning cliffs and the blue ocean while you zoom over Tung Lung Chau island.

Spend the Night in a Tent

This is an overnight activity that you can do with your family and friends. Camping at Sai Wan is considered as one of the top picks from out of the range of outdoor activities that you can try out while in Hong Kong.

Go Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing at Cape Collinson is an activity that’ll leave you breathless till the end due to the magnificent views and the sense of extreme-adventure offered here. Climb with the experts in the industry with all the safety precautions in place and you will have the time of your life.

Waterfall Hunting in Bandarawela

Among the hundreds of waterfalls beautifying Sri Lanka, the most beautiful ones are located in Bandarawela and around. Here are just a few of them.

Kaleelnisfa , Ravana Water Falls Bandarawela , CC BY-SA 4.0

Bambarakanda Waterfall
The tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka (789 feet), Bambarakanda Waterfall is found when you are on your way to Haputale.

Ravana Falls
Interested in the Rama-Sita legend? Then, visit Ravana Falls during your stay at Bandarawela Hotel. Ravana Falls located 1.5 km from the hotel is one of the places in which Ravana hid Sita before she was rescued by Rama. The waterfall is not that tall, but it’s picturesque.

Devon Waterfall
Devon is a waterfall that’s to be adored from a distance. Stop by on your way to one of the Bandarawela hotels and enjoy what a graceful beauty she has, especially in the monsoon season.

Diyaluma Waterfall
Although Diyaluma looks taller than Bambarakanda, it’s really not! It’s the second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka with a height of 720 feet. On your way to the waterfall, you may find many small shops selling everything ranging from boiled corn to fancy items. Do not forget to lend a helping hand to those small vendors too.

Discover the Baa Atoll’s Marine Treasures

A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the Baa Atoll in Maldives gives you a chance to encounter some truly spectacular coral and marine life. Here’s a peek into what to expect.

Mantas & Whale Sharks
One of the best things you can do here is to go snorkelling in Hanifaru Bay and swim amongst huge manta rays and even whale sharks! The perfect complement to a stay at luxury villas in Maldives resorts, this activity is seasonal and best experienced from June to October when the plankton concentration is more.

The Blue Hole
Amongst the Baa Atoll’s most enthralling sites is the Blue Hole; part of the house reef at Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences, this unique attraction features a mysterious-looking hole formed by an underwater chimney of sorts lined with corals; an ideal spot for diving or snorkelling, you can see diverse marine life from triggerfish to hawksbill turtles.

More Adventures
Resorts in Maldives that offer snorkelling safaris to explore the Baa Atoll provide plenty of marine encounters including tropical reef fish, Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, moray eels, green turtles and more. Diving is also popular since there are over 40 sites to explore, while you can go on dolphin spotting cruises too.

Night Expeditions
Depending on the resort, you may also have the chance to go on night snorkelling or diving excursions; it’s not every day you can include that in your list of nightlife activities! Apart from seeing nocturnal marine life, by way of special filters and blue light you can also witness bioluminescent lifeforms and plankton too.

Best Cycling Excursions In Kandy

When you are visiting the city of Kandy in the central hills of Sri Lanka, you might consider traversing it by bicycle. There is so much to explore in this city so let’s take a look at the best five tours for you.

Along Colonial Footprint

Start outside the city and cycle in. Balana Pass is one of the most important royal outposts that managed to keep the colonial powers away from the Kandyan kingdom for centuries.

Tea by Bicycle

You could explore the tea estates that surround the Kandyan plateau while staying in hotels the likes of Hunas Falls Hotel Kandy. It is a hotel in Kandy, Sri Lanka that is surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls.

Cycling in the Knuckles

The Knuckles Mountain Range called so due to its distinct shape is a great mountain to explore on a bike. But be aware that it can be quite strenuous.

Round the Kandy Lake

The easiest yet very picturesque ride is a bike ride around Kandy Lake. Made by the last king Sri Vickrama Rajasinghe, the lake is set right in the city centre and shrouded by gigantic trees.

The City by Night

The city empties in the evening and by night is very beautiful but starkly different from Kandy by day.