Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Diving in Doha

Doha is the capital city of the State of Qatar and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. The city is renowned for the wide range of shopping, dining and luxury accommodation settings it offers tourists. However, an often underrated attraction in Doha is the amazing diving opportunities it serves.

Due to its popularity among tourists in Doha, hotels you can choose from vary in price, service and luxury. For a fine mix of all three, consider staying at the Banana Island Resort, Doha, by Anantara. It places within close proximity to leading dive centres in the region as well.

The city is home to seven popular dive sites, all of which are accessible via PADI certified dive instructors from a number of centres in the region. The Old Club Reef (OCR) and New Club Reef (NCR) are both situated close to the Mesaieed sealine, about half hour away from Doha. The former is an artificial reef and is approximately 16 metres deep. NCR is about 20 metres deep. OCR and NCR are both rich in marine life and home to resident fish types such as Arabian Blue Angel Fish, Sergeant Major, Groupers, Batfish, Barracuda, Spangled Emperors, Twobar Seabream and much more. Other similar dive sites that immerse you in the regions rich marine life are the Inland Sea and Eel Garden.

Fans of wreckages are in for a treat as well. The Pericles Shipwreck of Al Ed-Al Gharbi is 35 metres deep. Here divers get to see an enormous sunken shipwreck with plenty of exploration opportunities. Its massive propeller is sure to leave you in awe. The Al Ed-Al Sharqi sea line, about an hour and half from the city, boasts of another huge sunken shipwreck called the MO Wreck. About 25 metres deep, this wreck is also home to some beautiful fish species.

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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Hua Hin elephant camps and trekking

A mere two hundred kilometers from Bangkok, on the west coast of the Gulf of Thailand, you will find Hua Hin. Resorts of the luxurious kind, upscale condominiums and holiday homes all offer spectacular ocean views. This beach side town has become a popular holiday getaway for both locals from Bangkok and tourists. Hua Hin was even a favourite vacation spot for the Royal Family in the 1920’s. It was once a quiet fishing village; today there are multiple housing developments, golf courses, shopping malls and hotels like the Anantara Hua Hin Resort but the town has managed to hold onto much of its old world charm.

Elephants have been a part of Thai history for centuries. They were used for transportation of people and goods, they were made to assist in construction and even participated in cultural and religious rituals. Today, elephants have become almost redundant as a mode of transport but in Hua Hin you will have the rare opportunity to visit an elephant camp make a trip on elephant back. These tours also offer the experience of meeting the elephants, petting and feeding them.

The jungle tour consists of a wooden seat placed on the elephant’s back. It is in this seat, fitted with a hand rail that riders will sit. The mahout sits up front, on the animal’s neck. He will direct the elephant on the course. An hour’s trip will show you elephants bathing, how they are used for logging and guests will be offered refreshments. It is wise to carefully follow instructions of the mahout, as elephants are large beasts that can be very dangerous if angered. In recent times there has been much scrutiny into the welfare of elephants and controversy surrounding elephant rides. It is worth conducting your own research prior to visiting these attractions, in order to make an informed decision.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Island Safari

Koh Samui was once a sleepy remote location, home to only a quiet fishing community; today, Thailand’s largest island is a popular holiday destination. It attracts travellers of all descriptions. Accommodation on the island ranges from beachside bungalows to luxury resorts. Koh Samui is famous for palm-fringed, white, sandy beaches, coconut groves and rugged rainforest. It stands apart from Thailand’s big cities with the frenzied activity that is usually expected. However Koh Samui is known for its raging after dark activity. Chaweng Beach, on which you will find Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, has a party atmosphere and is well known for its cabaret shows.

To explore the mountains of Koh Samui in style take a Land Rover tour and get ready for an adventure. Several tour companies now offer full day or half day trips that take you off road and bring you up close and personal with the highlights of the island. You can expect to see: the famous Grandma and Grandpa rocks located on Lamai Beach; Luang Pordaeng, the mummified monk which is a sacred local relic; Wat Phra Yai or Big Buddha Temple that houses several shrines and statues; the twelve meter tall golden Buddha statue that is the most celebrated landmark in Samui, it can be found on Big Buddha Beach on the northern coast of the island but can be seen several kilometers away. Stunning views await as you drive high into the mountains, along sea cliffs and then into low valleys, like Nuns Valley with its rural villages.

You can pick a tour depending on your interests. Some companies will transport you to and from your hotel and you can expect a tour guide who will explain the attractions and experiences. Refreshments and a traditional meal maybe provided, depending on the type of tour. Animal shows using baby elephants, crocodiles and monkeys are also offered on some itineraries but welfare of the animals is often questionable and in most cases, best avoided.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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River & Wildlife Experiences in Zambia: The Adventure of a Lifetime in South Luangwe

Africa is a land that is synonymous with adventure and wild-life, and there is no better way to experience the glory of an African wilderness quite like a safari, and there is no safari quite like a Zambian safari in South Luangwa. The Luangwa region is iconic for its spectacular scenery and wild-life amidst an unforgiving and rugged wilderness. Despite this, the safaris in Luangwa are renowned for providing a comfortable voyage into some of the harshest yet most beautiful terrains of Africa.

You can enjoy your stay in Luangwa in a variety of ways, one is by spending it at one of the area’s many lodges in the heart of the wilderness, if you wish to venture even deeper, the accompanying professionals will set up a camp for you to intimately experience the African wilderness. If the first two options are a tad too extreme for you, there you can go for a luxury hotel such as the Victoria Falls Hotel Zambia by the renowned Anantara Hotels, Resorts Spas where you can comfortably enjoy the river and wild-life experiences in Zambia amidst five-star luxury.

The safari providers in the area have decades worth of experience as well as recognition and will uncompromisingly provide you the best, and safest, experience you can hope for. The South Luangwa National Park encompasses almost ten thousand square kilometers and plays refuge to over four hundred species of birds and more than sixty different species of mammals. Leopards, Elephants and Crocodiles in particular are known to gather in large numbers in South Luangwa Park. The dry season from April to October is the best time for a visit, since the rivers dry up and the animals wander towards the lagoons where water is plentiful.

So if you seek a safari adventure like no other, head on to South Luangwa for a voyage you will surely cherish for a lifetime.

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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Nature and Wildlife Walks in Abu Dhabi

In the 21st century, the Middle East is known well for its abundant and thriving oil industry, which has contributed to the development of the region in the last fifty years. One country that has benefited greatly from this discovery is the United Arab Emirates. Located in the Middle Eastern region, the United Arab Emirates is composed of seven Emirates, namely, Umm al-Quwain, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, Ajman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Given the present perception of the Middle East, many would be surprised to know that the emirate of Abu Dhabi was a haven for wildlife prior to its rapid development due to the discovery of oil in the mid-twentieth century. This natural heritage is evident in the name Abu Dhabi as well, which literally means ‘Father of the Gazelle’, as well as Sir Bani Yas Island which is a reputed wildlife reserve in the United Arab Emirates.

Hotels in Sir Bani Yas Island are scarce with given the status of the island as a bird sanctuary in addition to a wildlife reserve. Therefore, for tourists who wish to reside on the island itself, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi can be recommended.

The emphasis placed on preserving and conserving wildlife in the emirate extends to initiatives outside the United Arab Emirates as well and the emirate has, on multiple occasions, organised events to raise awareness or protest against certain global initiatives in the form of wildlife walks. One such wildlife walk took place in March 2014 at the Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre to raise awareness about Canned Hunting, a practice predominantly in South Africa where lions are bred for the industry and hunters are given the opportunity to shoot them in closed enclosures, and to protest the practice.

Abu Dhabi places great importance on such initiatives and encourages tourists to visit their wildlife reserves in the least disruptive manner possible as well.

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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Bali Safari and Marine Park

If one is looking to experience the culture, the beaches, the cuisine and the nightlife in East Asia then look no further than Bali. The island has certainly become a tourist hotspot. When in search of Bali hotels, Legian is a great place to stay if you want to keep yourself occupied as well as enjoy the beach. Ideally located to explore most of Legian from, OSSOTEL makes a convenient base for your travels.

While in Legian plan an excursion to Bali Safari and Marine Park. The park is home to over 60 species of animals and some of which are rare and endangered. Among them are the Komodo Dragon, Orang-utan and Bali Mynah.

The safari park offers once in a lifetime experiences. One can choose to ride on an elephant back to get an up close experience with some of the animals in the Animal Encounter Space. One of the wildest fine dining moments can be experienced here, at the Tsavo Lion Restaurant. Enjoy dining surrounded by lions, porcupines and meerkats. A great show is put on at the state of the art theatre within the park; the show is none other than the Bali Agung. There is also a chance to create your own big splash at the water park and fun zone.

The park is actively engaged in various conservation as well as educational programs through its membership in many wildlife societies and associations. It offers a great way to spend a whole day with the family. The park also provides an educational and learning experience for the kids.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Exploring Sri Lanka’s West Coast

The tropical island paradise of Sri Lanka has been enthralling her visitors and inhabitants with some of the most diverse and beautiful unprecedented natural sights in an island-sized landmass. The somewhat small island of Sri Lanka encompasses sights ranging from picturesque sun-swept beaches, glorious historical monuments, and sprawling rainforests. Whether it is jungle-adventure or beach-bound relaxation, the island of Sri Lanka has it covered. If it is the latter you seek, then the ever-popular west-coast, which acts as the primary beacon of the island’s tourism industry, is sure to provide what you seek, in plenty.

The main trinity of attractions the western coast is known for are the splendorous beaches, extravagant resorts containing some of the finest beach hotels in Sri Lanka, and last but not least, some amazing examples of colonial architecture that are remnants of Dutch colonization. The western coast is the most popular and tourism-oriented section of the island mainly due to it being the most westernized and most developed. These aspects attract countless numbers of sun-crazed Europeans to the shores of the island, and dotted along her fine beaches are accommodation ranging from affordable guest-houses to more extravagant options such as the iconic range offered by Amagi Hotels.

There is a variety of places to visit along the west coast of Sri Lanka, but the primary destination should be the city of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, where underneath the cosmopolitan chaos lies a very rewarding experience laden with treasures. Further south, one can easily visit one of the party-capitals of Sri Lanka, the coastal town of Hikkaduwa. A gem that one should definitely check out is Lunuganga, magical country estate that contains the life’s work of renowned architect Jeffrey Bawa.

So if its sun-swept beaches, majestic resorts and hotels and unforgettable scenery that you seek look no further than the west-coast of Sri Lanka.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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The Morne Seychellios National Park- Your Dream Destination

The archipelago that is the Republic of Seychelles is a nation adorned with natural wonders, ranging from breath-taking rocky-beaches to mesmerizing rainforests. Seychelles and her one hundred and fifteen plus islands have been captivating visitors from around the world for centuries. The nation’s unique landscapes combined with the incredibly lush and diverse range of species that inhabit her many islands. The most interesting factor that contributes to the beauty of Seychelles that her land was completely un-inhabited until of fairly recent times, which is why the island has some of the most beautiful and unspoiled sights the region has to offer, and one place that is most breathtaking above all, is the Morne Seychellois National Park.

In addition to all her natural wonders, if you’re looking for an international visit to this iconic land, there is many a hotel Seychelles has to offer with unique and exotic locales such as Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino.

Coming back to the topic at hand, the Morne Seychellios National Park is situated on the highest point of all the Seychelles islands, on the island of Mahe. Not only is the park the highest in the country, it also by far the largest, covering more than twenty percent of the entire landmass of Mahe. The park contains an extensive list of trails that can be explored through either half-day or full-day excursions. Although marked-routes and maps are plentiful, the best way to explore the Mahe Park is through a guided tour, where an expert will escort you to the best spots within the park to experience both all her panoramic sights and her living wonders.

So if you’re looking to an escape into a world of dense rainforests, serene beaches and magical creatures look no further than the Republic of Seychelles and the glorious Morne Seychellois National Park.

 

A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, Amira Ghaffoor ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought. Her interests include Politics, law and Philosophy. If you see Joanna James enchanting many readers, do know it’s her.

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Asah Waterfalls

The island of Pulau Tioman, sitting off the east coast of Malaysia, enjoys hot and sunny weather during most of the year. The monsoon season brings heavy rain and large waves from October until January; this is when the surfers alight in Tioman. Resort properties offer discounted rates and operate at low capacity. Between May and August, when rainfall is minimal, is when the tourists arrive in crowds.

The mountains, lush foliage, warm climate and ocean views make it a great destination for a relaxing holiday. Tioman Island is known for the beautiful waterfalls that make up a big part of the natural beauty of the island. The most famous of the waterfalls is Asah Waterfall; it is also referred to as Mukut Waterfall because it is in the vicinity of the village of Mukut. Visitors can opt to stay overnight at the Berjaya Tioman Resort, located on the island’s sandy shores with the towering mist covered mountains beyond, to soak up the tranquillity of this beautiful island.

Hiking to the top of Asah Waterfall is an option if you remember to bring along the appropriate footwear. The walk is long and can be challenging for some but the scenery is breathtaking. Listen to birds calling and admire the trees and vines as you climb to the top. If you are in luck you may even see monkeys and other wildlife along the way. There are strategically located shops and rest spots for climbers to survey the landscape as well as get a drink and catch their breath. The residents of Mukut Village are friendly and welcoming, they are also happy to sell food and souvenirs to tourists who want a snack or to pick up a memento of their trip.

 

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Things to do in Yala

Wildlife is undoubtedly one of the biggest assets that the paradise island nation of Sri Lanka flaunts. From the many wildlife parks and reserves spread throughout the country there is none other that is as acclaimed as the Yala National Park. Best known for its wide variety of animals and also for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world, Yala presents a range of activities for those ardent explorers.

Now before you set out to quench your wanderlust in Yala, its imperative that you find a comfortable accommodation among the plethora of hotels in Yala Sri Lanka. Almost hidden in the verdant jungle land, is The Secret Yala by The Secret Hotels, a premier hotel that’s conveniently just 10 minutes away from the park.

After settling down, it’s time to set off and explore! The Yala Safari undoubtedly tops the list of the many things to do in Yala. Parked near the entrance to the park are many safari jeeps you can hire. The best time to enter the park is when the park opens just after 6:00am or after 4:00pm when animals resurface after taking cover from the sun. During your safari you will get to see a wide range of truly remarkable creatures such as elephants, sloth bears, colourful peacocks, wild boar, massive crocodiles, endemic and migratory bird species and of course Yala’s crowning glory, the magnificent Sri Lankan Leopard.

Pay a visit to ‘the hill of the quiet mind’- Chiththala Pabbatha or the Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya that’s situated deep within the Yala National Park. This ancient Buddhist monastery houses number of rock caves, pagodas, chapter houses and ponds. The walls of these caves are adorned with many beautiful paintings.

Take a stroll along pristine sands to relax and stretch your legs. The primary beach spot in Yala that’s open for public was once the location of a bungalow that was tragically wiped out by the 2004 Tsunami along with its occupants. Today, as you stroll through the beach you can see the remnants of the devastation the monument built to honour them.

 

 

Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Melissa Somawardana, concealed under the name of 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+