Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

The yellowfin tuna is a well known food fish which is renowned for its taste and flavour. Among tuna varieties it is second only to the bluefin in size and taste. The yellowfin is without a doubt one of the largest tuna species, reaching weights in excess of 300 pounds. However the average fish does not reach these mammoth sizes.

The fish derives its name from the vivid yellow colour of its anal fin, second dorsal fin and finlets. Another distinguishing feature of the species is that in mature fish the anal and second dorsal fins are often very long, with a sickle or scimitar shape, extending almost as far as the tail. The pectoral fins also are fairly long. The body area of the yellowfin is a deep metallic blue, fading to a silver colour on the lower parts, with a number of vertical lines on the belly.
Although the yellowfin spends the majority of its lifetime in the upper regions of the ocean waters, they have been known to dive to considerable depths on occasion.

Diving to far depths and more activity generally take place during the daytime, with more shallow swimming at night. This is considered to be a result of prey movements in the ocean. The yellowfin is classified as a schooling fish, and generally spends its time with its habitual school.

The species is most commonly found in offshore deep waters, but are also found near seashores where suitable conditions exist, such as the Maldive Islands, the Caribbean and the Western Pacific islands.

The shape of the yellowfin’s body is optimized for speed, allowing them to successfully pursue and catch prey such as saury, mackerel and flying fish. They also consume such species as anchovies, lanternfish, sardines and skipjack tuna. Adult yellowfins are only threatened by the largest and fastest ocean predators.
This tuna variety constitutes a large proportion of the yearly fishing harvest of the Maldives. The yellowfin catch is exported to many countries as well as being consumed locally by the residents of the islands.

The traveller seeking Maldives island resorts would do well to select Nalandhu, Maldives. This fine Maldives hotel offers beautifully located accommodations and hospitable service never disappointing its guests.

A camel safari is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and memorable activities to be experienced in the environs of Abu Dhabi. In a past era when there were no motor vehicles or the conveniences we take for granted, the invaluable ‘ship of the desert’ was the only way to traverse the vast empty expanses of the Arabian desert. The forefathers of today’s Emiratis would travel long distances with no assistance apart from the prized camels which served their Arab masters faithfully.

Climbing and descending vast sand dunes and crossing expanses of picturesque desert on camelback is a truly magical experience reminiscent of the famed Arabian Nights. Providing a genuine taste of the nomadic lifestyle of ancient Arabia, a camel safari is always a memorable experience. The visitor may choose a safari trip of the desired duration, from an hour’s ride to an overnight expedition complete with a serene night in the desert in a Bedouin tent.

Alternatively the visitor may choose to traverse the desert in the comfort of a four wheel drive vehicle, which takes the guest on a thrilling rollercoaster ride over sand dunes and desert valleys. The loftiest sand dunes provide a spectacular view over the Arabian desert; the desert sunset is a particularly memorable sight. The journey proceeds to a Bedouin campsite where the traveller can enjoy refreshments and have their hands and feet decorated with henna designs. Often a belly-dancer performs to traditional music, after which a delicious barbeque dinner will be served to the visitor.

The ancient art of falconry, a cherished Arab tradition can also be experienced in the desert. The falconer’s skill in handling the birds of prey always impresses the beholder.

‘Wadi bashing’ has gained great popularity in recent times. In this exciting adventure sport a four wheel drive vehicle is piloted at considerable speed over a wadi, the term used for a dry rocky riverbed, of which many are found in the environs of Abu Dhabi. However it is customary to receive expert instructions before trying your hand at this activity.

With all these exciting options on offer, a visit to Abu Dhabi will never be dull. When selecting amongst Abu Dhabi resort hotels an excellent choice is the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. This fine Abu Dhabi resort provides luxurious accommodation and gracious service satisfying every expectation of its guests.

In recent years Abu Dhabi has consolidated its position as a premier tourist destination. With its tropical year-round sunshine, scenic sand dunes, pristine beaches and traditional Arabian hospitality Abu Dhabi is a memorable holiday destination. Appealing to both leisure and corporate travellers with modern convention centres, spas, theatres and golf courses amongst other facilities the desert emirate never disappoints its guests.

A desert safari in the environs of Abu Dhabi is a delightful way to experience the magical aura of the Middle Eastern desert. Always a thrilling adventure, safaris take the visitor deep into the desert providing a genuine insight into the challenging conditions of the desert as well as its beauty and mystical allure.

Four wheel drive vehicles take the visitor on a rollercoaster ride over the picturesque high sand dunes which promise to be an invigorating experience for even the most jaded of travellers. The peaks of the lofty sand dunes provide a panoramic view over the desert landscape which stretches out as far as the eye can see. Especially memorable is the vista of the desert sunset, a once in a lifetime experience.

‘Wadi bashing’ is a popular activity for the thrill seeker. A ‘wadi’ is the term used for a dry rocky riverbed found in the desert carved out by flood waters over millennia; innumerable wadis are to be found in the deserts surrounding Abu Dhabi. A four wheel drive vehicle is used to drive through these riverbeds, a bone–shaking and tough adventure, but always memorable. Before engaging in wadi-bashing it is important to receive comprehensive instructions from an expert, so as to avoid any unnecessary complications.

Traditional falconry displays may also be observed in the desert environment, with expert falconers demonstrating this age-old craft. Visitors may also enjoy camel rides and receive henna decorations on their hands or feet.

Some safari excursions will take you to a Bedouin campsite where you will be entertained by a talented belly-dancer moving sinuously to local music for a truly distinctive Arabian experience. A sumptuous barbeque dinner will be served at the end of the evening.

For the traveller selecting amongst Abu Dhabi resorts, there is no better choice than the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This fine luxury resort Abu Dhabi offers promises lavishly appointed rooms and courteous service assuring a memorable stay.

Koh Samui is an island off the coast of Thailand, with abundant natural resources, coconut trees, coral reefs and inviting sandy beaches. Historically coconuts were the main cash crop for locals, but now tourism has become the main industry.

The island is thought to have been first inhabited by fishermen from Southern China and Malaya around 15 centuries ago. Even until the latter part of the 20th century, the island was a secluded independent community and lacked roads until the 1970s. Today the island has a successful economy, largely based on tourism and coconut and rubber exports. The island even boasts an international airport but has retained its image as a pristine island paradise.

The island’s central part is a dense tropical jungle. Nathon, the old capital is the main hub for sea transport and fishing, and retains the charm of a less complicated era. In the main street old Chinese stores and buildings suggest a multicultural history. However due to the advent of tourism many restaurants, hotels and clubs have been set up in the coastal areas.

Kayaking in Koh Samui is a truly unforgettable experience for anyone fortunate enough to experience it. Most tour companies use modern safe equipment and the guide will first initiate the novice concerning the proper handling of the kayak.

Once the training has been completed, the adventure will begin. Amidst emerald seas and sandy white coastline, the kayaker is free to relax, unwind and soak up the invigorating tropical sun. There are no stresses or worries here, only mile upon mile of delightful exotic coastline, a truly refreshing and rejuvenating experience.

Among Koh Samui resorts, a truly relaxing haven is The Langham Place Samui at Lamai Beach. A distinctive luxury resort Koh Samui, Langham Place Samui offers every imaginable amenity including the Chuan Spa, delectable dining and absolute privacy.

Shaped like a turtle – the island of Penang in Malaysia is anything but little, in terms of the variety of entertainment and beautifully engaging sites it has to offer tourists, a trip to the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is an adventure in itself. A vacation in Penang offers a multifaceted experience, which comprises of beaches covered by palm trees, unique temples and its intriguing heritage alone makes it a thrilling place to visit. Penang plays host to a multi racial community, comprising of Chinese, Indians and Malays who make up the majority, and comes as no surprise that tourists who venture out to Georgetown will find a mosque, church and even a temple in close proximity to each other.

Sports such as motor boating, sailing, canoeing and even parachuting are quite common and for those into such adventure sports Penang is the ideal place to be. The Tanjung Burgah beach stretches for miles on end, beginning from Tanjun Toking and bordering with Telok Bahang.

The beaches are dotted with many restaurants that serve various cuisine, and a day at the beach spent just lazying on the sand, with a scrumptious lunch would be ideal for the traveler who is looking to relax and take in the sites.

For art enthusiasts the Yahong Art Gallery is a good opportunity to familiarize oneself with the country’s cultural art works. The gallery is easily accessible from Batu Ferringhi and is just a short drive away. At Jalan Teluk Bahang, visitors could catch a glimpse of the country’s traditional art works in the form of a batik factory. For the more adventurous in spirit the beautiful Forest Museum is amazing. Aside from this, the trip to the Butterfly and Orchid Farms is a must while on holiday in Penang.

To get about in Penang there are many options but an interesting way for the more adventurous would be to take a traditional trishaw ride through the city. The trishaws available here are a little different from those available in other Asian countries. The vehicle is like a bicycle and the driver has to cycle. The vehicle is open at the front and it gives tourists a better view at a leisurely pace.

Another option is to hire a motorcycle, which is another fun way of exploring the island as well as bring travelers closer to mingling with the locals. A standard rate is usually set for renting the bikes per day and is affordable.
Although, not all travelers maybe interested in zipping through Penang and may prefer a leisurely vacation, for such tourists looking to laze around the beach, then accommodation at a beach front Penang hotel could be a good alternative as well. A hotel such as the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang, is set in Tanjung Bunga, and its locations is ideal for sight-seeing as many popular tourist attractions are close by.

A holiday in the vibrant city of Dubai is not complete without experiencing the thrill of skydiving. The feeling of falling from thousands of meters up in the air has attracted crowds of locals and tourists to try out this exciting sport, making it one of the most popular sports in Dubai. Definitely an activity for the adventurous, skydiving brings about an indescribable surge of adrenaline in the skydiver and allows the skydiver to behold the sight of the Dubai city from an eagle’s point of view.

The growing number of clubs and institutions in Dubai that provide courses and opportunities for skydiving is an indication of the popularity of this activity among those visiting Dubai. Even the first timer can enjoy the hair raising thrill of skydiving by first engaging in a Tandem Jump offered by the famous Umm-Al-Quwain Aeroclub. This beginner’s jump is the safest method of sky diving as the skydiver’s harness is attached to that of an instructor’s. Though it is a beginner’s jump, it spans an altitude of 12,000 feet and has all the elements of a typical adrenaline surging sky dive.

Skydiving is an incredible experience, and there is no better place to do it than in the pulsing city of Dubai. Tourists looking to explore the many attractions of the city from a hotel in Dubai and enjoy the city’s vibrancy can stay at the world famous Raffles Dubai. This unique pyramid shaped hotel provides luxury accommodation in Dubai while offering offers unmatched relaxation and elegance in the heart of the city.