Kid-Friendly Attractions in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a vibrant city with a lot to offer families. From theme parks and museums to zoos and aquariums, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions to keep children entertained. Here are some of the best places to visit in Hong Kong with kids

Theme Parks

Hong Kong Disneyland is a must-visit for families with children. The park features classic Disney rides and shows, as well as a variety of dining options. Ocean Park is another popular theme park in Hong Kong, with a mix of rides, animal encounters, and shows.

Museums

The Hong Kong Science Museum is a great place for families to learn and discover together. The museum features interactive exhibits on science and technology, as well as a planetarium. The Hong Kong Museum of History is another kid-friendly option, with exhibits on the history and culture of Hong Kong.

Zoos and Aquariums

Hong Kong Maritime Museum
Image via Wikimedia Commons – KTo288, Hong Kong Maritime Museum 2014-2, CC BY-SA 3.0

The Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is a great place to see a variety of animals, including pandas, monkeys, and reptiles. The Hong Kong Maritime Museum is a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about the history of seafaring in Hong Kong.

Where to Stay

There are many family-friendly hotels in Hong Kong, with options to suit all budgets. Some hotels have special packages for families, including discounted rates for children and extra beds in the room. You can also consider staying at a 4 star hotel in Hong Kong the likes of Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong.

Other Highlights

The site where The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery are located is a popular attraction for families, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and an opportunity to learn about Buddhism. The Hong Kong Museum of Art also has a lot of interactive art exhibitions that are great for kids

A solo travelers guide to the Maldives

Go on a dolphin cruise

How about going on a sunset dolphin cruise to get up close to the gentle dolphins? The variety and the richness of marine creatures in Maldives attract many a tourist from all around the world each year. There are more than 700 different species of marine creatures swimming around atolls and stunning coral reefs.

benjamin-l-jones-XGygXrXUSGM-unsplash
diving  | Image by Benjamin L. Jones via Unsplash

 

Scuba diving

You can explore the underwater wonders at a leisurely drift pace! Numerous deserted and isolated islands offer a wonderful playground for all leisure scuba divers. You are more likely to sport Napoleon Wrasses, the magnificent Manta Rays, lots of pelagic fishes and the very rare Whale Shark! This is an incredible thing to do in Maldives if you are holidaying at one of the many Maldives spa hotels the likes of Kurumba Maldives.

Glorious Sunsets

What better way to witness the unrivalled beauty of this island paradise than soaking up a stunning sunset view! Just lie down on the beach or go on a dolphin-watching sunset cruise to take in a golden hour. At the coming of the dusk, the island comes alive with fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and reds.

Beaches

Undoubtedly one of the top reasons to visit Maldives!  These sparkling blue oceans are perfect not only for honeymooners but also for all leisure travellers who seek a soothing holiday. In order to make the best of your beach holiday, try to visit Maldives from December to April when the humidity is low.

A Jeep Safari Ride in Dubai – A Thrilling Ride Down the Desert

A jeep safari ride in Dubai is an adventure that you do not want to miss when visiting this vibrant city. Whether you are a thrill-seeking tourist or a local looking for an exciting day out, a jeep safari tour is a perfect way to experience the beauty and culture of the Dubai desert.

Photo by Stephane Hurbe via pexels

Starting Off

Step out from your accommodation in Oaks Liwa Heights to start your Jeep Safari adventure. You will meet your tour guide and the rest of your group at a designated pickup location, ideally a few miles away from most hotel suites in Dubai. From there, you’ll be transported to the starting point of the tour, where you will be provided with a safety briefing and have the chance to meet your fellow adventurers.

Hit the Road

Once you are all set, it is time to hit the road and start exploring the vast and rugged landscape of the Dubai desert. Your tour guide will take you on a thrilling journey through the dunes, allowing you to experience the true beauty of the desert and its rich cultural history.

Stops Along the Way

Along the way, you will have the chance to stop at various points of interest, such as traditional Bedouin camps, camel farms, and scenic overlooks. You will also have the opportunity to participate in activities like sandboarding, camel riding, and henna painting, giving you a chance to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

The Views

As you make your way through the desert, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the chance to spot wildlife such as gazelles and Arabian oryx. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch at a traditional Bedouin camp, where you can relax and surrender to the peaceful atmosphere of the desert. As the sun begins to set, guests can make their way back to the starting point, feeling exhilarated and rejuvenated after a day of adventure in the Dubai desert. A jeep safari ride in Dubai is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with the natural beauty and rich cultural history of the region.

A Visit to Yala National Park

Being one of the biggest national parks in Sri Lanka, a visit to Yala National Park is a must if you are ever on vacation on this charming island. Here are some of the highlights.  

 Yala National Park

Spanning a total area of 900 sq km, Yala National Park is easily one of the most enormous national parks in Sri Lanka. This exotic sanctuary was once a popular hunting ground for the British but now claims to have the highest leopard density in Asia whilst sheltering a host of other fauna the likes of sloth bears, deer, crocodiles and exotic bird species.

 What to see and do

Yala National Park
Yala National Park – Image by Nadil Jayakody from Pixabay

The Yala National Park tops as a hotspot for spotting leopards. Hop on board a 4 x 4 safari ride with binoculars in your hand during dawn or dusk to catch these inimitable animals in action. Whilst catching a glimpse of leopards has become a coveted attraction among travellers, there is a host of other wildlife to be seen amidst these exotic savannahs. During a ride along this wildlife sanctuary, you can easily spot some sloth bears, ample endemic birds emerging out of mangroves and elephants roaming across the land.

 Hotspots for Accommodation

From small boutique hotels and eco-friendly villas to opulent hotels and retreats by the jungle, you are spoilt for accommodation choices when holidaying in Yala. Amongst the top-notch accommodation spots in the area, a Yala hotel the likes of Cinnamon Wild Yala is indeed a wise pick for the hotel is kin to camping in the wild except with luxurious amenities brought to your arms.

 Best time to go on safari

The dry season from February to June is the idyllic time to go on a safari in this exotic wildlife paradise. With water levels decreasing, there is ample opportunity to witness wild animals emerging out of their habitats in search of water. The park also boasts a serene year-round temperature of 29°C and only experiences heavy showers during the months from September to December.

 

 

 

 

Solo Travel in Singapore

Singapore is a multicultural city-state and a place where anyone from any part of the world can easily fit in, feeling right at home.

Basile MorinSkylines of the Central Business District, Singapore at duskCC BY-SA 4.0

Blend in with locals

One of the best ways to make sure that you don’t attract attention when travelling solo is to blend in with the locals. Observe the surroundings and watch how they eat, drink and even walk.

Be respectful

If you are staying at Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore or even perhaps at a 1 bedroom serviced apartment in Singapore, there are going to be rules and regulations and even though you might not agree with them it is important to be respectful.

Chinatown

Chinatown is a must-visit location in Singapore especially when you are travelling alone. You will be able to spend time looking at things that interest you and even try out different types of food you find exciting. When in a group, you are not always able to stop and observe each and everything you see.

Little India

Little India is another exciting place to explore. You can not only shop for hours on end but also meet people, interact with them, and even learn new things.

 

 

 

Stay at a Niseko Ski Resort in Hokkaido

Ski holidays and adventures in the snow are always a great idea. Read on to find out more about Japan’s most popular ski resort and what you can expect when you make your way to chilly Niseko!

niseko
                                      niseko | Img by dave.see via flickr

Where Can You Stay?

You can bet that there’s ample choice of Niseko accommodation given how popular this spot is the world over for its amazing slopes. Hotels such as Chatrium Niseko Japan offer a warm and cosy respite from the chilly breeze and the ample snow outside!

What Can You Do?

Whether or not you’ve ever skied before, Niseko is a great place to have at it! Learn how to manoeuvre the baby slopes under the care of a trained instructor or else just do some snowboarding to make the most of the snowy slopes.

Ski Terrain

As far as world-famous ski terrains and slopes, Niseko is rated up there by avid skiers. Widely acclaimed as the best place to ski in Japan, the slopes are perfect for those who want to put their skiing skills to the test!

What Else Can I Do?

Niseko has plenty of places to eat and drink! So, if you aren’t in the snow, you can warm yourself with a hot chocolate or a delicious meal at one of its many restaurants. Apart from local delights, there’s plenty of international cuisine on offer to accommodate the influx of skiers from the world over!

 

 

The Best Places to Visit in Doha

A destination with plenty to discover, Doha, the capital of Qatar, will not disappoint intrepid travellers and here are some of the key places to explore and experience.

Souq Waqif

Amongst the most famous attractions in Doha, the historical Souq Waqif is a sprawling traditional marketplace where one can soak up local culture as well. As you wander around this site, you will come across everything from souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing and spices to gold, art and falcons! When hunger strikes, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes here too.

Al Wakra

A seaside locale, Al Wakra is not only a great place to visit but also stay at for those looking to enjoy luxurious comforts and holistic healing at a spa in Doha, Qatar. Not to be missed is Souq Al Wakra a popular coastal marketplace located next to Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli; also nearby is an idyllic public family beach with shallow waters and playgrounds ideal for kids.

Doha Corniche

Doha Corniche | Image via unsplash

A waterfront promenade that runs along Doha Bay for around 7 km, the Doha Corniche is another must-visit place of interest. A well-known spot for both relaxation and recreation, it is popular with joggers and skaters too; there are parks and play areas for kids here, while you can also head to the stunning Museum of Islamic Art and take a dhow cruise as well.

Katara Cultural Village

Amongst the best things to do in Doha is to visit the Katara Cultural Village which offers more insights into local culture. Noteworthy highlights include the Katara Mosque, Gold Mosque, Al Thuraya Planetarium, and a Greek-style amphitheater, while there are various art galleries and eateries too. Here, you will also find Katara Beach with lots of water sports on offer.

Adventurous Tours Around the Wildlife Parks in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is well known for its iconic wildlife and national parks among many travellers who visit the country. Are you a wildlife enthusiast too? Here are a few national parks that you cannot miss out on when you visit the island.

Yala National Park

Prepare for an adventure like no other when you visit Yala National Park. This land area has a rich ecosystem from monsoon forests to grasslands and sandy beaches. The highlight of your safari here would be observing the elephants and Sri Lankan leopards.

Horton Plains

Horton Plains
Horton Plains | Image via wiki media commons

Located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, this is where you ought to be to observe the splendour of the island’s natural environment. The precipice known as World’s End is the most popular spot to visit here.

Udawalawa National Park

This park has mainly marshes and plains that are full of wildlife activity. If you are lodged at one of the boutique hotels in Sri Lanka close to this national park, do visit to observe the wild elephants and beautiful birds that live here.

Wilpattu National Park

This is a land area that is rich in flora and fauna due to the many lakes within its premises. Around these bodies of water live leopards, elephants, water buffalos and the lazy sloth bears too. Don’t forget to enjoy a stay at hotels by KK Collection too as you embark on your safaris.

The youngest Aussie state capital

Lush botanical gardens, alfresco dining, and amazing sunsets are enough to make any place your favourite destination. Darwin, although is on the edge of Australian Outback is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines with so many things to do. If you’re someone who enjoys the great outdoors, Darwin is the place to be.

Sunset Dinner Cruise
Sunsets and great fresh seafood dinner; what’s not to love? If you’re near Stokes Hill Wharf, you need to go on a sunset dinner cruise. Bring your cameras and a very big appetite because not only do you get some amazing food on this cruise, you can capture some beautiful images of the city while you sail along with the sunset. Each cruise lasts around 2 hours and 30 mins.

Darwin Wharf Precinct AKA Stokes Hill Wharf
This is a working wharf with many restaurants, shops and fun activities. The Darwin Wharf is also a major tourist attraction because it’s only 5mins away from downtown. If you’re staying at one of the many serviced apartments in Darwin such as the likes of Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel come by here and enjoy a nice alfresco seafood meal with your family and friends.

Defence of Darwin Experience
This experience is a part of the Darwin Military Museum and commemorates the Darwin bombing of 1942. You can witness first-hand experiences and many presentations depicting the destruction and horrific aftermath of WWII. If you’re a history buff, please visit this exhibit and the neighbouring Darwin Military Museum.

Tiwi Islands
If you want a fun day out in the sun with your family, plan a day trip to Tiwi Islands. The island, also known as the island of smiles, is located 2hours and 30mins north of Darwin by ferry. As the island is inhabited by Aboriginal groups, the best way to visit is through an organized tour under an indigenous guide.

Watching dolphins and whales play with waves

Yoko Ono once said, “Imagine a dolphin dancing in the sky. Let it dance with joy. Think of yourself at the bottom of the ocean watching”. As much as any of us would love to be able to do that, sadly we humans aren’t so lucky. So, the only option we’ve got is to watch them at Port Stephens.

Why Port Stephens?

Tomaree Peninsula.Port Stephens NSW | Image via flickr

Perfect cobalt blue waves fringed with snow-white foam crashing onto the rocky headlands is a sight to behold on its own. However, what will truly mesmerize you is the magnificent sight of whales and dolphins swimming through those waves like graceful, aquatic dancers. What makes Port Stephens even more special is that it’s home to over 140 bottlenose dolphins!

How to get here?

Port Stephens is located in New South Wales, Australia. Backed by giant white sand-dunes, this is the perfect location to come and forget all your concerns. It’s a picturesque 2hours and 30min drive from Sydney but if you’re flying the Newcastle airport is only 30 mins away from Port Stephens and Nelson Bay.

Where to stay?

There are a plethora of luxurious hotels and cozy places to stay and enjoy your relaxing vacation in this beautiful coastal town. If you’re concerned about health and safety during these times, Nelson Bay hotels offer self-contained accommodation such as the Oaks Nelson bay Lure Suites. You can have the most relaxing, safe holiday without having to cut back on time or comfort.

Who to look out for?

The rocky coastal headlands make for the perfect viewing decks from the shore, but you can easily get a cruise and sail away with your loved ones to meet the friendly whales and dolphins up close. You can see humpbacks and bottlenose dolphins and even go swimming with them during the warmer months to really feel like a part of the pod!