Here’s a curiously delightful venue which drifts across the Beira Lake in Colombo

How about spending a memorable evening in an unrivalled above-the-lake event space featuring a meticulous interior and exterior design? Do read on to know more interesting facts.

Beira Lake

About
Away from the lavish lifestyles of the bustling capital city is the “8° on the Lake”, the floating restaurant of Beira Lake which comes across as a fascinating venue for your evening functions. Docked at the Cinnamon Lakeside’s pier, it captures the hearts and minds of everyone especially at the coming of the dusk. This will be the best spot in Colombo to celebrate your private parties and special celebrations.

Design
The large windows and the transparent dome allow you to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking Beira Lake and beautiful night sky adorned with stars. The wood panelled floors of the upper deck make it an incredible space for a great dance floor. It’s better to spend time during an evening because the heat during the day can ruin your fun.

Location
Those who are holidaying at a luxury hotel in Colombo the likes of Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, should definitely go a dinner cruise along the picturesque Beira Lake to indulge in an exceptional experience in the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka.

Entice your taste buds!
While enjoying a nice time with your friends, you’ll be able to savour a wide array of Western and South Asian cuisine. Sip your favourite cocktail while feasting your eyes on the stunning vistas of the lake. What’s more attractive?

 

 

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Adventure sports to try in Sri Lanka

A country that boasts stunning natural beauty, a utopia for thrill seekers; Sri Lanka offers its visitors a myriad of attraction that will quench their thirst for Adventure.

White Water Rafting | Image Credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/96147639@N00">Rob Chandler</a> from Toronto, Canada, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:White_water_rafting,_Rangitata_Valley,_NZ.jpg">White water rafting, Rangitata Valley, NZ</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY 2.0</a>
White Water Rafting | Image Credit: Rob Chandler from Toronto, Canada, White water rafting, Rangitata Valley, NZ, CC BY 2.0

Hiking and Trekking

Sri Lanka is home to a varied collection of landscapes ranging from undulating mountain ranges with stunning views, to breezy and serene plains that are ideal for trekking. Most of these places are also safe for camping since least of the wildlife in Sri Lanka poses threats to campers.

Rock Climbing

Sri Lanka is filled with a number of natural rock formations that are very much exciting to climb Most of the mountains located in the highlands of Sri Lanka and are easily climbable yet you’ll cherish a wonderful experience because of the stunning sceneries you see during your climb!

Paintballing

This is a recently emerging adventure sport that is gaining popularity among youth. If you are interested and you are travelling to Sri Lanka as a group this is certainly an adventure sport worth trying. Most of the adventure sports destinations are located far from major cities but if you are stationed at a luxury apartment in Colombo the likes of One Galle Face, the “Splatter Paintball” range located near a small town close to Colombo area is called Ambagaspitiya.

Whitewater rafting

The country is home to a myriad of rivers that features white waters and are a paradise for kayakers and rafting enthusiasts. Kithulgala is a town located in the banks of the mighty Kelani River and it is one of the most popular rafting destinations in Sri Lanka which never fails to thrill adventure seekers.

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

The Elephants of Sri Lanka

Elephants are one of the most popular animals in Sri Lanka. These gentle giant can be spotted both in the wilderness as well as hundreds of domesticated elephants too can be spotted around the country. Read on to know more about these magnificent creatures.

Sri Lankan Elephants | Image Credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Cherubino">Cherubino</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sri_Lankan_Elephant_in_Hurulu_Eco_Park_10.JPG">Sri Lankan Elephant in Hurulu Eco Park 10</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>
Sri Lankan Elephants | Image Credit: Cherubino, Sri Lankan Elephant in Hurulu Eco Park 10, CC BY-SA 3.0

About

Elephants are Sri Lanka’s largest land mammal and they are a protected species of animals in the country. Known by the scientific name Elephas Maximus Maximus and they are also the largest Asian elephant species.

Habitat and behaviour

The elephants can be found living in grasslands around many of the country’s protected wildlife reserves. Female elephants and their calves live in groups and male elephants live a solitary life and they only interact with other elephants during the breeding season.

Threats faced by the elephants

Despite the efforts of the government, the population of the Sri Lankan elephants are continuously decreasing due to habitat loss and poaching.

Seeing them

You can see these gentle giants up close and personal at the elephant reserves such as Pinnawala or if you wish to see them in their natural habitats you can book an Elephant Safari in Sri Lanka from nature travel operators the likes of Cinnamon Nature Trails.

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

Dune Bashing in Mui Ne

Vast expanses of red and white rolling sand dunes make Mui Ne, the most colourful stop on your travel itinerary during your time in Vietnam. Read on to find out everything you need to make a stop there!

How to Get There

Located in the beautiful fishing village of Mui Ne down by the south coast of the country, the sets of giant dunes can be easily reached by many a resort in Mui Ne including the likes of Anantara Mui Ne Resort easily. Just request your hotel reception to arrange a tour and you can enjoy a frolicking good time fast!

Image Credit: Anantara Mui Ne Resort

Things to Do

The ideal spot for the sporty and adventurous, there is plenty of fun activities to do here such as sand boarding or signing up for a hot air balloon ride over the dunes. Or you can simply hire yourself a quad bike to let loose. A dune buggy can also be hired for around 30 minutes for USD 20.

Sandboarding, Sand Board, Sand, Dune, Surf, Snowboard

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit these magnificent geological oddities is early morning or evening just in time for the sunrise or sunset.

Tips

If you are all about avoiding the masses of tourists who flock to spots like these, you can consider visiting the dunes during midday. However, it will be quite hot so consider loading up on sunblock and carrying along plenty of water to stay hydrated.

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

Visit Goa Gajah ‘Elephant Cave’ in Ubud

For those enthused by the serenity of nature, the ‘Elephant Cave’ in Ubud will prove to be well worth the time and energy. Do visit this place and witness the marvel in this fascinating site.

Goa Gajah Elephant Cave | Image Credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:DerGenaue_Allrounder">DerGenaue Allrounder</a>, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Goa_Gajah_Front.JPG">Goa Gajah Front</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>
Goa Gajah Elephant Cave | Image Credit: DerGenaue Allrounder, Goa Gajah Front, CC BY-SA 3.0

‘Elephant Cave’?

Built as an ethereal place for meditation, the history of the ‘Elephant Cave’ dates back to the 11th Century. Locally known as Goa Gajah, the site has got its name due to its location in close proximity to the Elephant River. The mysterious cave, bathing pools set amidst lush paddy fields and ancient relics lure tourists from all around the world to immerse in the balmy atmosphere of this historical site.

What to see

As you reach the place, you’ll get an eerie feeling seeing the menacing entrance of a demonic mouth. According to Balinese mythology, it represents the child-eating witch Rangda. The cave itself is quite small, yet you’ll come across three stone idols wrapped individually in black, red and yellow cloth. Those with a keen eye will be able to spot many indentations where monks sat to meditate.

Location

The cave is located just minutes away from Central Ubud. Before commencing your journey in this part of the world, do take note of available accommodation options. Consider staying at one of the top hotels in Ubud close to the attraction, such as Alila Villas Uluwatu, from where visiting the Elephant Cave is not that difficult.

Surroundings

Besides its archaeological importance, the eye-catching view of the surroundings is sure to capture your mind! Lush gardens, rice paddies, stone steps and cascading waterfalls await to immerse you in tranquil seclusion.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Renting a car is cheaper than buying one

The choice between renting and buying a car is often a tough decision. On one hand, buying a car requires higher costs but you own something in the end. Read on and know why it’s cheaper to rent a car.

Image by wilkernet  via Pixabay

Value falling with time
When it comes to renting a car, it often has a lower monthly payment than the cost of buying a car with the same loan terms. This is primarily due to the fact that the biggest cost of owning a car will be depreciation. With the passage of time, the value of your car along with its financial cost will fall down.

Risk of repair bills
Once you rent a car for an agreed period of time which is known as ‘personal leasing’, you can drive a car for a fixed monthly cost. If you’re in Sri Lanka and have thought of spending some time in the country, you’ll come across plenty of car rental services. Many like Casons Rent a Car Sri Lanka are flexible, offering a variety of vehicles to choose from, even for a self-drive tour. Such services also offer some great travel advice. Sri Lanka adventures are thus not only made more cost-effective but are rewarding too.

A new car with the latest features
This is regarded as a good side of renting a car. If you are craving for the upgraded model of your favourite car, leasing might be a better choice since you can keep that car for a certain period and switch to a new one.

Less commitment
Renting a car will make great sense if you need a car for a defined period of time. It can help you bridge the time period until you buy the next car.

 

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Nizwa

Known for its forts, majestic mountains, and ancient ruins, Nizwa offers travellers something intangibly different to take in. Read on to find out about the 4 must-visit destinations while here.

Image by Andries Oudshoorn via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Jebel Akhdar
Considered to be the main attraction in Nizwa, the Jebel Akhdar Mountain offers some truly spectacular views from the top. Booking a full day tour is recommended as it will enable you to visit quaint villages in the Hajar Mountains and take in picturesque mountain valleys lush with fruit groves.

Nizwa Fort
One of the main landmarks in the ancient city, visitors can take in the many courtyards, secret passages, and towers that are found in this 17th-century fort. The views from the top of the ramparts too will prove particularly wonderful!

Nizwa Grand Mall
After exploring and enjoying adventurous activities, a spot of shopping would definitely round things off. The Nizwa Grand Mall houses a variety of retail outlets along with a plethora of entertainment options. All within easy reach of surrounding Nizwa hotels including the likes of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

Oman Trekking
If you happen to be the adventurous type, choosing a trekking tour in Nizwa would be ideal. Many activities such as rock climbing, canyoning and swimming can be enjoyed under the careful guidance of professionals. However, booking your tour in advance is well recommended.

 

 

 

Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media. Google+

Exciting experiences in Bangkok

We all know that Bangkok is one of the ultimate tourist destinations! Why? Of course, it’s an amazing city with all kinds of attractions and that includes the weird ones too! Here are some queer places to visit in this city that will ensure that you leave taking back fun memories of the awesome time you had;

Image by 12019 via Pixabay

A glimpse at death
Siriraj Medical Museum, otherwise known as the Museum of Death is undoubtedly one of the most interesting places to visit in the city of Bangkok! It is not a typical tourist destination; however, there certainly is a gruesomely welcoming vibe about it. There are illustrations of dissected bodies with detailed explanations. What’s more, in the Forensics area is a mummified body of the first serial killer who terrified Thailand!

Furry hang out spots
If you are the traveller who is a pet lover, then you are in luck! In this city, you will find places like Caturday Cat Café and True Love Café that give you the pleasure of having a meal and a cuppa with friendly cats and dogs just waiting for a dose of petting from you! You could even bring along a pet, there are special treats for you and your furry friends too after all!

An airplane graveyard
Once soaring cross the skies with hundreds of passengers on board is now a collection of measly shells that lie in the airplane graveyard in Bangkok. The graffiti-stained rotting planes are now a shelter for 3 families. It certainly is adventurous to examine these remains of old airliners.

Blind dining
Experience what it is like to dine while your sight is taken away. This café was initiated to help others experience how the visually impaired people have their meals. You can be sure to have a flavourful experience even without sight as the rest of your senses will be heightened at this point. If you are on a cruise in Bangkok, perhaps with agents like Manohra Cruises, do stop by at Dine in the Dark.

Khlong Toei
Khlong Toei is a part of Bangkok that is filled with slums and has not adapted much compared to the metropolitan façade that the city puts up. Fresh groceries and meats can be found here for cheap prices too!

 

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Dolphin Watching in Salalah

What will be more amazing than watching massive pods of delightful dolphins in their natural habitat gliding under your boat? If you are holidaying in Salalah do not miss this wonderful experience!

Image Credit-By NASA [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

About

Do you like to experience the thrill of encountering adorable dolphins during your vacation? The Oman coast is perfect for this activity and there are more than 21 species of dolphins in the unspoiled seas of Oman. It is better to arrange a dolphin watching tour with an experienced guide to know more facts about these gentle sea creatures.

The speedboat ride

A journey by a speedboat is the most convenient way to reach the dolphin watching point in Salalah. The entire trip will take about two hours and you’ll have plenty of breathtaking scenery on both sides. Therefore, don’t regret for the two hours you spend on the boat! In addition, you can have a clear view of the Salalah coast and eye-catching palm trees alongside the beach.

Accommodation

Before commencing your journeys in this part of the world, it is important to do take note of the available accommodation facilities. Amongst many Oman resorts in the area, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara will come across as an excellent venue from where holidaymakers and thrill seekers like you can map out an excursion to encounter these gentle dolphins in Salalah.

More things to do!

While identifying different types of dolphins like the acrobatic spinner and bottlenose, you’ll also have the possibility to go snorkelling around the bay of Bandar Khiran. It is well-known as one of the best snorkelling destinations in the world. If you are luckier, you can snorkel with sea turtles too!

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

Spending the day out in Tioman

Malaysia is known for its heavenly beauty both inland and on the coast. Tioman Island is one of the most favoured islands by any tourist visiting Malaysia. This is because of its stunning greenery, beaches and little villages that fill the area.

Tioman Island | Image Credit: By Glueball at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.) [Public domain], <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tioman_runway_01.jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>
Tioman Island | Image Credit: By Glueball at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Diver’s delight

Tioman is the biggest island towards the eastern coast of Malaysia. It is also the main diving grounds for tourists who like to take trips underwater. The aquatic life here is vibrant and full of diversity. A spot all deep-sea divers are sure to love is Pulau Chebeh, in the deep blue here you will get a glance at giant manta rays and enormous gorgonian sea fans!

Diving into dining

There are dining options in plenty on Tioman Island. Dine by the beach in restaurants where your meal is prepared with fresh fish selected by you! Or simply try out some barbecue or authentic Malaysian delicacies while sitting in the cool cover of the palm trees. Treat yourself to a fantastic breakfast too at popular dining spots that are ubiquitous around the island.

Island activities

With a rich ecosystem of rainforests and marine life, it is no wonder that there is much to do in Tioman! Take pleasure in visiting the Tioman Marine Park, or simply go diving in Monkey Beach. If you are the sporty type, rent that surfboard to ride the waves or have a fun time going kayaking. Venture to the uninhabited islands here for a quiet picnic and swim.

Accommodation

There is a wide choice of places to stay in Tioman Island. One such Tioman resort is the much sought-after Berjaya Tioman Resort. What’s more, the Salang bay is packed with many hotels and resorts. Not to mention, the many restaurants and shops available for all your requirements.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+