Best things to do in Cuba Street in the heart of Wellington

Cuba Street is known to be a lively place always bustling with people going to restaurants, shopping and simply hanging around with friends or family. you can think of the place as a massive mall stretching from Webb Street to Wakefield.

People watch

So, what’s so interesting about watching the people here? In Wellington, you are allowed to be whatever you want to be and that’s why you’ll find people of diverse character here. The locals themselves are fascinating as you will find groups of dancers, painters and even tattoo artists at this place.

The gastronomy

Image by unserekleinemaus via pixabay

If you are a foodie looking for the best experience, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll find cuisines from all parts of the globe here and some fusion dishes as well for an exciting twist to your food.

Nightlife

Since the place is quite close to Wellington hotels it is an easy option if you want to explore some nightlife. There are several bars and restaurants in the area serving some of the best ale and wines.

Shopping

There are a few quirky shops if you would like to do some shopping. Hotels like Oaks Wellington Hotel often recommend this spot for the best brands and an overall good shopping experience.

 

Tips for desert driving in Qatar

If you are afraid of saying yes to a desert road trip because of the safety risks, read on. With the right safety tips, your Qatar desert driving will be fun and memorable.

Desert safari in Qatar|Image via Unsplash

Carry more bottles of water- more and more!

Water becomes a life-saving fluid when you are desert driving in Qatar. Carry more and more water cans with you (and energy drinks and fresh juices if possible) to stay hydrated.

Stay filled!

It’ll be a horrible experience if you happen to get stuck in the middle of an endless desert without fuel in your vehicle. Check if you have enough gas before you go, and also have a reserve source of fuel.

Have a list of emergency numbers!

Most 5-star hotels in Doha the likes of Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli advise their guests to keep a list of contacts to call during an emergency. So, make sure you take this list when you come for desert driving too.

Check the tires before you go!

Your car tires should be healthy, and they can’t make any trouble during the ride. So, check the status before you start the engine, and always have a spare tire with you.

Why Botswana is considered a unique travel destination

Botswana is the wildlife enthusiast’s every dream. With diverse landscapes across the country that host diverse ecosystems it is a great place to visit to learn more about animals. Here are the 6 top reasons why you should visit Botswana.

1. Unique and Very Diverse National Parks and Game Reserves

There are so many diverse and unique national parks and gaming reserves around Botswana. There are great places that you can explore close to hotels in Gaborone.

2. A Large Diversity of Wildlife

There is a diverse array of wildlife distributed among these national parks including lions, elephants and giraffes on the dry plains and crocodiles, buffalos and hippos close to the Chobe River.

3. Various Types of Safaris

You can ask at your hotel the likes of Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino about the various types of safaris available. There are boat cruises down the Chobe River, motorboating across the Okavango Delta, air safaris and a good hardy ride of a 4×4.

4. Has Stunning Sunsets

Because Botswana is so flat, you can be guaranteed a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the world.

5. Is a Unique Travel Experience

It is a truly unique travel experience that will help you better understand nature. It is an adventure that will bring you close to the true beauty of the earth.

The Phra Nang Princess Cave in Krabi

Many travellers simply visit the Phra Nang Beach to soak up the stunning Krabi scenery; however, some locals visit with the intention of making offerings to Phra Nang herself. Located close to many a hotel Ao Nang Krabi has to offer such as Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, this cave is a must-visit attraction in the region.

History

The legend states that Phra Nang was a princess that was killed during a shipwreck. Another story states that she was the wife of a fisherman who got stranded on this island and whiled her time away awaiting her husband’s return.

Getting There

From Ao Nang Beach, you can board a longtail boat that will directly take you to Phra Nang Beach. It would cost around 200 Baht per person to complete the trip. A long-tail boat would usually wait until there are at least 8 passengers before departing to Phra Nang Beach.

Mark Fischer, Phra Nang BeachCC BY-SA 2.0

Offerings to Phra Nang

Nowadays, one can witness the local fishers making offerings such as flowers and incense asking for safe travel on the sea.

Cave of Fertility

Over the years, Phra Nang Princess Cave became associated with fertility and virility. Locals place wood carvings of phallic symbols that can be seen at the entrance of the cave.

Mozambique Wildlife Safari

Mozambique isn’t the typical urban country where high-rise buildings are all you see. The country and its people are very much in tune with nature ad attempt to protect their wildlife. This is exactly what makes a safari here so exciting.

The abundance of wildlife

The Limpopo National Park in Mozambique is one of the most impressive parks which has been merged with South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Now wildlife in the two regions roams free. A safari here is one of the top things to do in Mozambique.

Gorongosa National Park

This was the regions most abundant national park in the 1960s. But once the civil war began, animals were poached for ivory and meat. Now projects have begun to bring the park back to its former brilliance and visitors get to see it all.

Judy GallagherAfrican Lion – Panthera leo, Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique (45650835935)CC BY 2.0

Moving to water

When it comes to wildlife, Mozambique is also blessed with rich marine life. There are many diving and snorkelling opportunities available to witness it all.

Tours and places to stay

Now that the country has recovered from the civil war, there are many hotels belonging to large chains like Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas that have decided to set up here. They may even organize your tours.

Amazing Attractions to Discover in Yala for an Unforgettable Vacation

From wildlife safaris to exploring exquisite cultural sites, Yala is an ideal place to spend your summer vacation. You will find many properties in and around this spellbinding city such as Cinnamon Wild Yala.

AdbarTourism Yala National ParkCC BY-SA 3.0

Yala National Park
No trip to Yala is complete without visiting its amazing national park – one of the most visited of its kind in Sri Lanka. It is home to a beautiful forest that provides lifeblood to many exotic animals. Animal lovers can even expect to spot the elusive leopard here during a safari arranged by their Yala hotel.

Magul Maha Viharaya
Hiding historical value in its ancient constructions, Magul Maha Viharaya is yet another attraction that can be visited during your trip to Yala. According to chronicles, Vijayabahu the Great has used this temple complex during the battle to unite the country.

Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya
A temple complex that’s believed to be built by King Kawanthissa during the 2nd century B. C., Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya can easily be accessed from many Yala hotels. The main stupa can be found overlooking a large pond from a large mountainous area.

Yala Leopard Centre
Couldn’t spot a leopard during your safari? Fret not – you can visit this incredibly informative centre that offers marvellous insights into the lives of leopards.

 

 

Wellington Travel Guide

Wellington is one of the most popular regions you can visit in New Zealand. From scenic views to fantastic attractions, there’s a lot to see and experience here. So, here’s a quick travel guide you can go through, if you’re planning a visit here soon.

When to Visit

So, to start off with, when exactly should you visit Wellington? The winter months that last from June to August are ideal if you want to avoid crowds but be weary of constant rainfall and strong winds. The summer season will bring tourists with them but pleasant weather as well. So, the choice is up to you.

Where to Stay

There’s a wide selection of accommodation options here in Wellington, ones that are suited for varying budgets. You can pick out a budget-friendly boutique hotel or opt for one of the best hotels in Wellington such as the Oaks Wellington Hotel.

The Attractions

Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo Image by Spawn Man via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The list of attractions you can visit in Wellington is virtually endless. Some highlights include the Wellington Zoo, the National Archives and Weta Workshop. You can always consult your accommodation provider for recommendations on where to go.

A Few Tips

You should consider visiting the free museums of Wellington, these are great to tour through and cost you nothing. When it comes to dining, visit Chinatown for the best flavours and unmatched prices.

Guide to planning a winter weekend in Port Stephens

If you think it’s just the summers that are amazing in Port Stephens, you are probably wrong. It’s also a great winter escape with its many beaches and hills.

Staying in Port StephensPort Stephens

Image by ZebethBrowse via Pixabay

Thinking about options for Port Stephens accommodation? As long as there are properties the likes of Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort, you don’t need to worry about it. They will offer you every luxury and comfort.

Explore the Tomaree Mountain

Get ready to explore one of the best lookouts in New South Wales- Tomaree Mountain. For the complete hike, it won’t take even 2 hours, but the views from the summit are totally worth it

Explore the beaches

Zenith Beach is not the only beach to head to during your winter getaway. Don’t forget about the Anna bay, One Mile Beach, and Fingal Bay Beach that is also can also be visited to bring you warmth, joy, and relief.

Head to Gan Gan Hill

For someone who loves views, the Tomaree Mountain is not the only option. Hike to the Gan Gan lookout without much effort and enjoy all the views of the Port Stephens, Hawks Nest, and many more.

Nuwara Eliya’s Top Attractions

Little England is the name given to Nuwara Eliya. You will at once see why when you visit this town because the buildings you see in this area, the climate, and everything else is very much similar to an English setup.

Image credit-Unsplash,Egle Sidaraviciute,CC0

Nuwara Eliya Water Falls

Nuwara Eliya is an area blessed with beautiful waterfalls. Glen Falls, Lovers Leap, and Ramboda Falls are just some of them. To witness the beauty of some, you will have to hike a little, but the views are astonishing!

Tea Bluefield Tea Factory

This region has a lot of tea estates, from where the world-famous tea brand ‘Ceylon Tea’ was originated from. During your tour, head to the Bluefield Tea Factory and enjoy an impressive cup of tea after a detailed factory visit.

Horton Plains National Park

Although this National Park is located 30km away from the city, it is worth a visit. You will find the World’s End here at the Horton Plains. It’s a bit of a long hike, but you are sure to enjoy it!

Where to stay in Nuwara Eliya?

Since it’s a very touristy area, you don’t need to worry about options for accommodation in Nuwara Eliya. Hotels such as Galway Heights are available with world-class services to welcome you for a blissful holiday.

Dambulla in One Day

Located in the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, the town of Dambulla is an ideal destination to visit or be based at. If you have just one day here, these are some of the things you can do.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Get off to an early start by heading to the top of the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site within easy reach of Aliya Resort & Spa. You will pass rock frescoes, the Mirror Wall and the remains of huge lion paws leading up to the summit where palace ruins and inspiring vistas await.

Golden Temple of Dambulla

With a history that dates to the 1st century BC, another key local attraction is the Golden Temple of Dambulla. Hotels that are close by are ideal since you can plan a visit to this site where you will find Buddha statues and historical paintings within a stunning cave temple complex.

Minneriya National Park

In the second half of the day, you can plan a wildlife safari to the Minneriya National Park home to diverse animal and bird life; if you visit between June to September you are in for a treat since you can witness “The Gathering” where hundreds of elephants can be seen.

Ayurvedic Spa Bliss

Look to stay at a hotel that has an Ayurveda spa so you can enjoy some relaxing and rejuvenating treatments after all your adventures. Such spas offer traditional and holistic rituals with everything from herbal oil body therapies to herbal steam baths and more.