Miscellaneous Adventures - The Adventure Travel Site

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud; Tales of Reincarnation

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud covers about 27 greenery filled acres of land which provides a serene home to over 600 long-tailed macaques. These monkeys are classified into 4 groups in accordance with the areas of the park that they occupy. The sanctuary is an eminent cultural and spiritual landmark that hosts about 10,000 visitors each month. The sanctuary is owned and operated under the leadership of the Padangtegal. The forest itself is sacred to the villagers and there are a few sacred sites located within the reserve that draws from the Balinese Hindu beliefs revolving around death and reincarnation. The Temple of Death, Temple of Cremation and Holy Springs Bathing Temple are among the few sacred sites inside. The area is also home to many Ubud Villas such as Alila Ubud Bali and many other lodging service providers that cater to the large crowds that visit the sanctuary on a monthly basis.
If you are wondering how monkeys fit into the life and death beliefs of Indonesia, the Ramayana epic gives you all the answers. The epic goes on to say that Sita the wife of Rama is abducted by the evil king Ravana. Rama is said to have enlisted the help of Sugriva and Hanuman who both resemble monkeys, to bring her back safely. Hanuman and Sugriva battle many antagonistic monkeys ruled by Ravana before they finally bring Sita safely home. The villagers, who believe in the religious lore, both love and hate the monkeys which they feed daily and revere. At the same time, their mischief which escalates to stealing household items of the villagers also turns the villagers’ reverence into malice when the monkeys attack and bite them, becoming a menace to the village.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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Adam’s Peak

The much venerated Adam’s Peak is regarded as Sri Lanka’s holy mountain, attracting a steady stream of devotees – in addition to many sightseers – who gladly make the demanding trek to the summit of the mountain. The focus of the reverence is the enigmatic feature that is found at the mountain’s peak, which Buddhists regard as the footprint of Buddha. Other religions provide their own interpretations of the sacred footprint. As you plan your visit to Adam’s Peak, an attractive choice of accommodation would be Nuwara Eliya holiday bungalows such as the appealing The Cottage by Jetwing. This attractive accommodation makes an ideal base from which to head out on your adventures.

Many Sri Lankans of all ages undertake the challenging climb to the summit of Adam’s Peak. For most the objective is to reach the summit in time for the sunrise which is a remarkable natural phenomenon that is shrouded in mystery. Most pilgrims also visit the shrine that may be found at the summit of the mountain.

You will find that the climb to the peak may be commenced from either Dalhousie or Ratnapura, with the former being the shorter and more popular option. You will have no problem locating the path to the top as you will find a host of souvenir stalls and teashops lining the route. As you commence the hike you will see a line of alluring lights stretching all the way to the top of the mountain.

The ascent to the top of the mountain takes some time, but you will find many tea shops and snack stalls on the way if you desire to replenish your energies. The objective is to reach the summit in time for the sunrise, when the sun projects the mountain’s shadow onto the billowing clouds and countryside below. Climbing Adam’s Peak is always a remarkable and rewarding experience that is sure to capture the imagination of the adventurous visitor.

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+

Explore the Mysterious Peaks in Beautiful Mauritius

Pristine beaches, lush green peaks and emerald green lagoons make up the tropical paradise that the island of Mauritius has become world famous for. A medley of contrasting colours, cultures and fragrances, the diverse landscapes of Mauritius make for an unforgettable holiday, whether it’s a family adventure or soul searching getaway.

Apart from the white sandy beaches and Mauritius Resort and luxury hotels that provide a selection of exciting water sports and other activities, like the InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort for example, another attraction here is the mesmerising peaks rising up in the distance and capturing the imagination of all who visit this wonderful island. The island is home to mountain ranges, isolated peaks and plateaus, all remnants of a big volcano which erupted millions of years ago. The jagged, mountains covered in dense jungle, invoke a sense of wonder at first glance. Despite appearances, the mountain ranges are not very high and for the adventurous travellers, it’s possible to go rock climbing and canyoning on certain peaks.

Mauritius Intercontinental | Mysterious Peaks Mauritius //mauritius.intercontinental.com/discover-mauritius — Mauritius Intercontinental | Mysterious Peaks Mauritius
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The Mauritius Mountains are named according to their shapes e.g. Lion Mountain in the Grand Port Range was named by locals who likened it to the creatures shape while Montagne Blanche has been named after the greyish white colour of the rocks found on the mountain. Some mountains also important culturally and historically; the Le Morne Cultural Landscape, is a rocky mountain that extends out into the Indian Ocean and was used as a shelter by runaway slaves through the 18th and early years of the 19th centuries. Sheltered by the isolated and almost inaccessible precipices, the slaves formed settlements in mountain caves and on the summit.
The mountain was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the area around it is protected by law. Travellers can still visit and explore the historical Le Morne Mountain and many others like it with their own fascinating stories to tell. With everything from exotic beaches to thrilling mountain range expeditions, the island Mauritius is the perfect tropical paradise.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Jungle Trekking in Tioman Island

Tioman Island Malaysia has so much to offer in terms of beautiful environs, gorgeous beaches, glistening oceans and underwater adventures. Jungle trekking into the verdant folds of the island is by far one of the most popular. The best way to enjoy this activity is to base yourself close to the many Tioman attractions. A resort sitting on the golden sandy beaches of Tioman is the Berjaya Tioman Resort.
This fabulous tropical escape boasts beach frontage, access to an ocean thriving with all manner of marine life and misty blue hills in the background – What more could a soul long for. Well for instance the Berjaya Tioman Resort is complete with traditional Malaysian styles chalets and luxury suites which are hidden away in the lush folds of the resorts garden. Perfect for families, couples or individuals each room is tastefully furnished and promise the ultimate in comfort. Enjoy a range of leisure facilities aimed at the whole family. There’s tennis, cycling, snorkelling, diving, boat charters, an 18 hole golf course and a whole gamut of options. Look forward to the utterly relaxing confines of the Tioman resorts – spa; while jungle trekking is another leisure service offered by the hotel.
Jungle trekking in Tioman is a whole new adventure for the whole family. There are various trail options to choose from; for instance if you are travelling as a family there are short tracks that take you past lots of wildlife that promise to impress all members of the family.

Tioman Island | Swiss Cottage Tioman swiss-cottage-tioman.com — Tioman Island | Swiss Cottage Tioman
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Nature lovers can take the trek across Genting and Paya Villages where you can absorb the traditions and culture of the simple island villagers, trek through the verdant rainforests, admire the unusual flora and fauna and explore the beautiful highlands, from where you are afforded with stunning views of the water below.
Adventure lovers can take on the jungle trak between the villages of Tekek and Juara the 7km rather isolated track is one for all nature lovers. This trek generally lasts around 4 hours and is well rewarded with sights of exotic birds, lizards, cheeky monkeys and unusual insects.

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.
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Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool is the only swimming pool on the National Register of Historic Places. Located in the city of Coral Gables, founded in the nineteen twenties, it is a city 45 minutes south of Miami.

The Venetian Pool is a public pool but looks nothing of a sort because of the Venetian-style lagoon carved out of a coral rock. This former rock quarry was turned into the Venetian Pool in 1924, then called the “Venetian Casino,” and has remained the most beautiful and unique public pool in the country. Palm trees surround the Venetian Pool and the roaring waterfall drowns all sounds of traffic out – there’s not a building in sight. Even if you are staying in a luxury hotel in Miami Beach such as the Metropolitan by COMO, Miami Beach take some time to take a dip in the Venetian Pool.

The pool is filled with fresh water from an underground aquifer, which is surrounded by the original coral rock. The surrounding of the pool is unlike any other with caves, waterfalls and little nooks carved into the coral and sandy area where you can enjoy being dry. What stands out the most about the pool is that the water used is free of any chemicals and it is refilled from the fresh water from artesian wells.

The Venetian pool is very popular amongst kids and young locals who reserve it for birthday parties and special holidays. For young children and beginners you find the shallow kiddy area connected to the main pool by the island. You also get dark caves and waterfalls, which are located on the far side of the pool.The Venetian pool is a lovely place to catch up on reading or lounge on in the sun and a good alternative to the beach.

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+

Importance of Conserving Wildlife -A glimpse of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island located in the Indian Ocean, is considered a biological hotspot due to its multitude of ecosystems that co-exist harmoniously in a limited space. Although the country is just over 65,000 km2 in area, it is among the 35 bio-diversity hotspots in the world due to its high point endemism. Having the highest biodiversity in Asia, National Red List 2012 states that Sri Lanka is home to 2,936 species of fauna, 3,492 species of flora and 3,021 marine species. The country is also home to the largest animals in the world, on land and sea, elephants and whales. The wildlife aspect of the country is so rich that over 14% of the total land in Sri Lanka is protected under Department of Wildlife Conservation in Sri Lanka. This remarkable ranking in nature’s treasures makes Sri Lanka a favourite tourist destination, which only raises the stakes in the importance of conserving the wildlife of Sri Lanka.

There are many threats to wildlife in the country, high rate of development prominent among them. Many of the developmental activities tend to take over or destroy the habitats of flora and fauna, which is a major problem. Another major threat is the high rate of tourism, where wildlife is being domesticated for the sake of financial gain among the locals. It is in this light that many animals are slaughtered to make mementos, and other animals are domesticated as a photo opportunity. If one happens to go on a Sri Lanka wildlife tour, one is likely to encounter animals such as elephants who, though in the wild, are accustomed to being fed by the tourists and have made it a photo op. activities such as these threaten the survival of wildlife, which needs to be preserved. However, there are many responsible touring companies operating in the country too. Mahoora Tented Safari Camps is one such endeavour, which is world’s only Carbon neutral safari camp.

Wildlife, no matter where they are, needs to be conserved. In the context of Sri Lanka, this is more important as a significant component of country’s social, economic and biological well-being is dependent on the wildlife of the country.

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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National Institute for Zorig Chusum Bhutan

The National Institute for Zorig Chusum also referred to, as the painting school is an initiative of the Bhutanese government to preserve local art and culture. The school provides four to six-year courses for students in Bhutan’s thirteen traditional arts including calligraphy, painting, sculpture, wood carving, casting, pottery, embroidery, tailoring, weaving, masonry, silver and gold smithy. Established in 1971, the school is seen as a foundation to protect and preserve the invaluable heritage of arts and crafts in Bhutan.

If you are visiting the country and worried about finding good accommodation, don’t worry there are plenty of luxury hotels in Bhutan such as the COMO Uma by COMO Hotels & Resorts; that are well-equipped. During your stay in Bhutan, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum where you can witness the effortless talents of the youngsters studying in the school.

The art taught in Bhutan today was introduced to the country by the treasure discoverer Terton Pema Lingpa during the fifteenth century. The traditional crafts taught in the school represent the knowledge and ability that has been passed down to many generations over hundreds of years. During the 4-6 year training, the students board at the institute’s hostel where they receive all necessary facilities which is financed by the government.

The Institute for Zorig Chusum falls under the National Technical Training Authority, which was created in 1999 to look after the quality of vocational training. For over thirty years the institute has instructed students in the thirteen areas of study. The school has been fortunate to receive generous grants from the Netherlands, which has helped to improve the curriculum and facilities. Apart from the thirteen main subjects, the school also offers metal work, weaving, gold-grinding, and the making of religious drums in the curriculum and these courses last up to two years.

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

Mountains, Sun and Sand. The best way to completely enjoy and be a part of the picturesque and unique topography of Arabia and its breath-taking mountain landscape is to go on a trekking trip in Oman. Throwing in a liberal dash of sand dunes, a sprinkling of wadi walks, a pinch of mountain trekking and a smattering of beach walks, Oman concocts the perfect adventure blend for the visitor, making trekking on dunes one of the key attractions in Oman.
Oman sits in the comfortable seclusion with some of the world’s oldest rocks that date back over 800 million years. With an enchanting enigma of natural beauty, there is much to do in terms of dune trekking in Oman. If you want to truly experience the desert in all its glory, look for hotels such as the Desert Night Camp as they offer an authentic experience. Not only will you be able to walk along sandy dunes with its spontaneous sand art courtesy of Middle Eastern wind, but you will be able to stroll through ancient mountains and happen across wild wadi walks with their miles and miles of unspoiled, untouched sands.
One unique feature of sandy dune trekking is its changing topography that keeps you engaged throughout. One minute you may be hiking down sandy wadis and next minute stumbling on stunning sand dunes. Providing rest to your weary eyes during this adventure are beautiful canyons, wild wadis and obligatory oasis that you will not be able to forget. Limestone canyons, mountains that resemble rugged and used table-tops, ranges of rocks that speak of a history untold, desert with its uniform but varied nature, and the unexpected wildness that you will stumble upon, all contribute to making trekking on dunes in Oman the perfect activity for trekking enthusiast.

Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+

Wildlife in Maldives

Most countries have a certain kind of local wildlife that they are proud of, from the big game that roam Africa’s national parks to the majestic Bengal tigers in India; the Maldives archipelagos is no different, except here, you won’t need a 4×4 vehicle to admire the local wildlife as most of its located under the clear turquoise waters that the Maldives is famous for.

The waters surrounding the atolls have a worldwide reputation for spectacular diving that entices hordes of visitors to the country every year, and with good reason. There’s an enormous diversity of sea life, a vast formation of colourful coral reefs and over 2,000 species of tropical fish found in the waters surrounding the famed Resort Maldives islands.
The area is home to several indigenous varieties of mantra rays, sting rays and eagle rays, as well as many kinds of sea anemones and jellyfish. Most of the leading resorts located here, like the Kuramathi Island Resort Maldives include special diving and snorkelling excursions for guests to get up close the marine life and appreciate the beauty of these sea creatures.

It’s not uncommon to see schools of whales, dolphins and even the elusively timid whale shark, passing by or sea turtles like the green turtle, the hawksbill turtle and the leatherback turtle. Indigenous land mammals and reptiles are rare here and the most common birds in the Maldives are ocean birds.

Wherever you go, there’s always something or some creature that will captive your attention, whether it’s a school of fish in the shallows waters near the shore or whales in the deep blue seas further from the islands. Whatever it may be, one thing is for sure; the crystal clear water and beautiful coral, brightly illuminated by the tropical sunshine is truly an underwater paradise that is not to be missed.

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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Strive to Discover Amazing Natural Wonders in Mauritius -An assortment of sea, sand and everything in between

Mauritius, a lone island located in the Indian Ocean, boasts of world’s most picturesque and unique natural wonders – from sparkling waters to dormant volcanoes to culturally rich natural wonders, the island is a destination that fits the definition of word “amazing” in every way.
As an island, the waters of Mauritius is world renowned. If you are to stay at a Mauritius resort such as InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort, you will be lulled to sleep, woken up and constantly be accompanied by the soothing sound of waves kissing the shore; and be treated to a mesmerizing view of the Indian Ocean, sparkling with the rays of tropical sun on it.

Mauritius | Ourplnt ourplnt.com — Mauritius | Ourplnt
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Venture inland and a plethora of wonders await you. Seven Coloured Earths, naturally occurring colourful geological phenomena that are also the most famous spot for tourists in Mauritius is one place you must visit. Located on the Chamarel plain, this is an area of sand dunes where sand is of seven distinct colours: red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow. With the shifting wind, the coloured sand arranges themselves in captivating patterns, with different colours spontaneously settling in different layers. The dunes never erode, and this nature’s magic can be witnessed in a handful of sand from the dunes as well.
Plunging 300 feet into an opaque pool of cooling water, Chamarel waterfall was once called “paradise” Mark Twain. Surrounded by the lush vegetation of Black River Gorges, the waterfall is formed by St. Denis River. You are offered two equally captivating viewpoints to admire this cascading beauty: an upper deck located at Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Reserve, and the bottom of the waterfall where a plunge into cool ultramarine waters of a shallow pool with is also possible.
Culturally speaking, Grand Bassin, a natural pool formed at the crevice of one of Mauritius’s many dormant volcanoes is prominent. Hindus flock here in numbers, especially during Maha Siva Rathri festival, as it is believed to be connected to holy river Ganges. The area surrounding the Crater Lake is scattered with temples and statues, allowing a glimpse into a harmonious blend of nature with man-made structures.
Be it the sea, the sand or something else altogether that you seek for, Mauritius offers a unique and unusual assortment of natural wonders that can cater to any palate.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+