Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

National Museum at Maldives

The island nation of the Maldives is hailed the world over for her natural splendour. The collection of islands that form the Maldives have stunningly pristine beaches, lush tropical landscapes and a diverse range of wild-life, mostly beneath her waters. Her God-given exuberance and many a Maldives resort such as the Kurumba Maldives, however can take people’s attention away from the incredible historical heritage that the country has to offer. There is one place where you can obtain a comprehensive insight into Maldivian history, and that is the National Museum of the Maldives.
Maldives’ National Museum, the first and only one of its kind, opened her doors coincidentally on the Maldivian National Day of 1952. The Prime Minister at the time, Mohamed Amin Didi led the opening ceremony. The purpose of the museum was to inspire a sense of patriotism within the Maldivian people while simultaneously preserving and showcasing the history of the Nation.
Presently, the museum is located at Sultan Park on the island of Male, the site of the Royal Palace ever since the 17th century, and has a distinctly traditional atmosphere with the interior bearing a strong Sultanate influence.
The museum initially had a vast collection of artefacts showcasing the country’s pre-Islamic history but following a recent attack almost all of the delicate artefacts from the pre-Islamic era were destroyed.
Within the museum you will find a tremendous assortment of traditional relics such as ceremonial dresses, creative embroidery and various items of past Maldivian nobility. Some of the currently contained relics date as far back as the 13th century.
If you’d like to take some time off from basking in the serene splendour of the island, be sure to visit the iconic National Museum on the island of Male, you never know what surprises lie within her walls.

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+

Vacation at Cape Tribulation

A dream vacation in the tropics could be a hike through a lush rain forest or a snorkeling excursion amongst a vast coral reef, teeming with colourful fish; however, for those looking for the ultimate tropical vacation, try finding a location that would include both experiences. That’s exactly what you get at Cape Tribulation, a small village sandwiched between the combined beauty of not one, but two World Heritage Sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
To make the most of your trip, you can find lodgings at the nearby town of Port Douglas; holiday accommodation here ranges from a number of small inns and resorts to hotel apartments like the Oaks Lagoons. From there you can drive north to the only cable ferry in eastern Australia, the Daintree Ferry, which takes you straight to the Daintree Rainforest.
Located on the north side of the Daintree River is a sealed road that leads to Cape Tribulation. The road weaves through the thick Rainforest covered Alexandra Range, a spectacular area where the air is clean and scented with heady aromas wafting from the lush foliage around you. There are a few dramatic lookout points on the way and then finally, the greenery gives way to tropical beaches.
Cape Tribulation has plenty of excursions on offer such as bush walking, diving and snorkelling, kayaking, river cruises and even zip lining through the canopy. Explore the rugged landscape with 4WD safaris and then make your way to the pristine beaches and take in the beautiful reef just below the turquoise waters. There are several different tours for Cape Tribulation that leave Port Douglas on a daily basis, so you have your pick of fun activities to try. No holiday to Queensland is complete without paying a visit to the tropical paradise.

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+

See a different side of Bangkok city by biking

Bangkok is a place that has made its mark in the hearts of many travel enthusiasts as a busy and well-commercialized city. However, the city actually holds a lot more than just the skyscrapers and the flourishing businesses. The greenery of this versatile place is just there, a reach away, if only you knew how to access it. For this purpose, a bike ride across the quaint roads of Bangkok that lead into greenery bordered lanes would be ideal. For those who wish to take up a bike rental during their holiday, many Bangkok resorts such as the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort to name one, are likely to provide bicycle rental services.

Riding through the unseen side of Bangkok will take you through to the lush foliage filled rural areas that resemble ‘hutongs’, a type of narrow street or alley. Tiny roads with hairpin bends will keep you guessing what beautiful scenery awaits you around the next corner. You could either do the exploration of the countryside by yourself, or you could also employ the assistance of a guide who will be able to take you along some of the most hidden parts of Bangkok.

Santi Chai Prakan Park is home to one of the most peaceful and breathtaking riversides of the city. In order to get through to the park, you could cycle through Ratchadamneon Klang road and Khao San road. Once you reach the park you will get the distinctive feeling of having left the bustle of the city behind. When you exit the park and carry on into the suburbs of Bangkok, the change is dramatic and instant. Skyscrapers and traffic give way to little houses, shops and rivers with lanes bordered on both sides by huge trees, and beautiful temples whose architecture stands out among the colourful activity of the rural markets. Strike up a conversation with some of the locals and explore the countryside of this unexpectedly diverse city as you cycle your way through some of the most heartwarming sceneries you will ever come across.

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

Taling Chan Floating Market

Bangkok is one of the most prosperous cities in Asia, and since the recent boom in business began in the 1980s, what was once a small trading post has been transformed into a sprawling metropolis by the emergence of business activity. Although Bangkok is a popular tourist location for her unique culture carved out of a rich history laden with traditional arts and customs, the rise in tourism is causing this very culture and heritage to seemingly disappear. Fear not however, for there is one place where one can truly enjoy a descent into Thai history and culture, untouched by the hands of globalisation, a place called the Taling Chan Floating Market.

A visit to the Taling Chan Floating Market is very easy, since it is one of the fifty districts that make up Bangkok, and located only a short distance away from popular places of accommodation such as the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, a popular Luxury Hotel Bangkok has to offer.

The main reason the Taling Chan Floating Market is appreciated is for its sincerity to Thai culture that makes it stand apart from the bigger floating markets that adorn the cityscape. A foreign tourist can easily traverse the market without having to book a tour or becoming overwhelmed by legions of people.

The food in the Taling Chan Floating Market is iconic Thai seafood, ranging from massive Shrimp to Blue Crabs and large fish, typically prepared on small boats using smaller barbeques. If you’re uncomfortable eating on the floor, many restaurants have little plastic tables and chairs placed for the convenience of the guests, although these would tend to fill up fast when during the hours after 12pm.

So there you have it, the Taling Chan Floating Market, the go-to place should you choose to taste a sincere slice of Bangkok.

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

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Tips for Jungle Trekking in Habarana

Habarana is a quiet village in the central part of Sri Lanka with a small population, some jungle and a number of Sri Lanka resorts. The Sri Lankan hoteliers have been ingenious in selecting Habarana as a popular base station for sightseeing and touring; roads lead from Habarana to the eastern coast of Trincomalee, Sigiriya and Dambulla two cultural landmarks are within proximity and even the former kingdom of Polonnaruwa is accessible within about an hour’s drive. As a standalone destination, Habarana’s two greatest attractions are the jungle landscape and the serenity of an unpolluted township. Even at a location such as Cinnamon Lodge Habarana which is by the main road that connects Habarana to the rest of the country, there is much tranquility and freedom from the world.
The jungle treks are fascinating affairs which are typically for one night and two days. The jungles are not modified by man, hence one can experience very primitive ways of living under the shades of the tall trees amidst some shrubs and camping by a lake. There are many lakes, rivers and other bodies of water in and around the area, some of which have played a pivotal role in irrigating the country. Kayaks are thrown into these flowing streams to give every expeditor a taste of water adventures. Bird watching, jungle trails and learning to make Sri Lankan dishes are a part of the tour.
Generally, a BBQ is held in the night and the freshest of fish would be available for grilling. Simple camps are set up with a few tents and a small fire. An early start each morning helps as the humidity is very high in the afternoon in spite of the dense jungle. Being comfortably and appropriately dressed makes it much easier for everyone to enjoy the outdoor experience with a spot of climbing, wading and scrambling through. Since the facilities available have been kept to a bare minimum such that the natural feel is not lost, if there is any specific medicine or type of pillow or protection you require, it is best that the guides are informed or that you provide them for yourself while being respectful to the others who are joining you.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

Longtail Boat rides in Dubai

Dubai has a reputation for offering its tourists an amazing array of experiences and attractions, and one of the latest additions is the Longtail Boat Ride to the Dubai Marina. Offering a sightseeing experience with a Thai twist, a Longtail Boat ride is sure to be highly memorable.

Longtail Boats

The longtail boat is a mode of water transport traditionally hailing from Thailand. The long and slender body of the boat is covered by a thick canopy and is powered through the waters by an engine at the rear. Apart from the canopy above, the boat is open on the sides, making it a perfect vessel for sightseeing tours.

Longboat Rides in Dubai

The Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, a popular Palm Jumeirah hotel, recently offered, for the first time in Dubai, sightseeing tours on longtail boats to enhance the experience of their patrons. Thus, visitors to the resort can climb aboard the beautifully crafted ‘Ruea Hang Yao’ longtail boat and head out along the coast of Dubai. The boat is constructed completely out of wood and boasts a predominantly oriental design – a nod to the Thai origins of longtail boats. The boat ride promises awe-inspiring views of Dubai’s spectacular and ever changing skyline. The boat ride costs AED 120 for a return trip and is fully worth the cost.

From the Palm Jumeirah to the Dubai Marina

The longtail boat ride starts from the Palm Jumeriah and goes along the coastline of Dubai to the scenic Dubai Marina. The views of the skyline of Dubai from the longtail boat are simply amazing and you will get a great opportunity of witnessing some of the beauty of the Palm Jumeirah itself, as well as several other reclaimed islands along the coast of Dubai. Make sure you take a camera along with you because you are definitely going to want to take a few pictures of this picturesque boat ride.

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+

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary

Kandy, the capital city of Sri Lanka’s hill country, is one of the most historic and fascinating destinations in Sri Lanka. Bearing the title as the last Sinhala Kingdom before British colonization, the city of Kandy is a hub of culture and history. The city is home to sacred and iconic attractions such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Royal Palace of Kandy, and the National Museum of Kandy. The city is, therefore, a top tourist destination and with numerous hotels, including the likes of Hotel Hilltop Kandy.
Of the many things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka, one of the most highly recommended activities is exploring the sprawling Udawatte Kele Sanctuary. The Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, located south of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is one of the most oldest and historic forest sanctuaries in the hill country or Sri Lanka. With its thriving flora and fauna, unique attractions, and stunning beauty, the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary is, without a doubt, an attraction well worth visiting.
When the Kandy served as the seat of the Sinhala Kingdom in the 14th Century, this sanctuary was exclusively reserved for the enjoyment of the Royal family. Following British colonialism, this amazing forest lost its exclusivity. However, owing to its ecological value, in 1856, the forest was declared in the forest reserve. It was in 1938 that the forest was declared a forest sanctuary, a title it has retained ever since. The sanctuary spreads over 257 acres and is home to over 135 species of trees, species and shrubs, many of which have stood strong for at least 300 years. The forest is also inhabited by a number of mammals and reptiles. However, it is the avifauna that is the main highlight in terms of fauna, with the sanctuary being home to over 80 species of birds, including the Three-Toed Kingfisher and Yellow-Fronted Barbet. Other attractions of this awe-inspiring sanctuary are the Senkadagala Cave, the Garrison Cemetery, and the Kodimale Peak.

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+

Desert Adventures in Oman -Getting an adrenaline rush in the midst of a spectacular desert

 

A tourist hotspot for seekers of the Sun when the wild winters take over their native lands, Oman is frequented by many travellers. However, most are content to simply stay in a luxury hotel in Oman, do a bit of shopping visit a souq and overall spend their time within the limits of the glamorous city of Muscat. And yet, there is so much more to do in Oman, especially if you are one who is into adventure sports.
One activity that you can engage in is dune bashing. Akin to riding on a rollercoaster, you will be driven over and across the spectacular dunes of Oman, where a 4WD will traverse up and down these amazing creations of nature in ways that will keep you gripping your seat with white knuckles. An average dune bashing ride will last for about one and a half hours, a time that you are unlikely to ever forget. If you are confident of your abilities and wish to mingle with the dunes at a more personal level, you can try quad biking where you will tackle the sand dunes on your own on a quad bike. Closer to the elements than when dune bashing on a 4WD, a simple half an hour of this exercise will have your adrenaline pumping and yourself covered in sand. Be warned, though – quad biking is considered quite addictive. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself out in the sand the next day as well. For a milder adventure, you could enjoy a camel ride and pretend to be a participant in a story of 1001 Arabian Nights. Or try a new way of travelling altogether on the sand by taking on sand boarding, which is similar to snowboarding except it is on the sand. If you wish to make an ideal end to all these activities, you could opt for camping in the middle of the desert. You can either do it the traditional way with minimal amnesties or stay with Oman Hotels for a luxury camping experience. Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed to have a ball of a time.

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+

Madu Ganga Boat Safari -Discover Balapitiya’s Estuary

Sri Lanka is blessed with beautiful rivers and lakes that run through the country making it one of the most popular tourist destinations. The Madu Ganga or Madu River in particular is a river located in the south west of Sri Lanka which joins the sea at Balapitiya and is visited by locals and tourists all-round the year. Madu Ganga is complete with hundreds of little islands scattered through the river and plenty of Madu Ganga hotels, which are dotted along the river.

A boat ride along the river will take the keen explorer in between the mangroves, where travellers are advised to keep a keen eye out for crocodiles or water monitors! So be careful not to fall over! While on the boat safari, it is a great way to spot some wild fauna in Sri Lanka, like monkeys swinging from the trees or colourful kingfishers diving for their prey. As the surrounding islands are mostly wet and marshy, visitors are treated to a wide array of flora as well. The boat ride through the Madu Ganga usually lasts for a couple of hours, although be sure to watch as the sea water mixes with the fresh water, as the tides change. Many hotels in the area such as The River House Balapitiya offer guests boat rides along Madu Ganga.
The largest island known as MahaDuwa, or locally known as Maduwa, is home to a Buddhist monastery. This island is thus the more popular one for the travellers of the Madu Ganga. Worshippers flock to this island to offer flowers and prayers, while young monks excitedly display a 150 year old religious book, fringed by coconut palms which were believed to have held the Sacred Tooth Relic once.
The locals that live along the river are known to produce cinnamon and is therefore a great place to get some fresh, real cinnamon! The river is also a great source for seafood, in particular lagoon prawns! Big, delicious prawns are caught in traps, mostly after the sun sets.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

Dubai Desert Wildlife

The camel is the most well-known creature to roam the desert; therefore it has earned an accolade for itself as the ‘ship of the desert’. Apart from endless golden sand, dry gusts of wind and desert palms very few images come to mind when picturing a desert. Boutique hotels in Dubai are usually packed with people who want to explore and learn about the actual topology, geology, and biodiversity of deserts. The hotels in the city promote desert treks; Desert Palm PER AQUUM is one hotel that does so, complete with guides, food, and vehicles included in the package.

The exploration of Dubai deserts would bring to earth the realities that are hidden amidst the sand and rocks. It is believed that in the past there were far more species of life that existed in the desert terrains of Dubai, but as the years passed some have become extinct while others are endangered. Some are seen so rarely that they even wildlife experts are unsure of their continuity as a species.

The existence of gazelles, oryx, and invertebrates in addition to the much spoken of camels has been confirmed. Arabian leopards have been spotted prowling around in mountainous areas where there is access to water while the hares that reside in this part of the world do not live in burrows but out in the open. Their beige fur acts as the camouflage and they survive easily from the wetness of the grass they consume. The tahrs and mountain gazelles occupy the mountainous regions with the leopards but only the tahrs squabble with the Arabian leopards for water as the mountain gazelles can do with or without for long periods of time.

The invertebrates such as snails, scorpions and spiders are common in the sand and fall prey to some of the larger animals. Yet, their population is always on the rise, unlike their larger counterparts who devour them.

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.

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