Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Waterbom Bali, the best waterpark

Blessed with Nature’s finest beauty from luscious hills to miles of clear coastline and dazzling turquoise sea, Bali is the ultimate tropical paradise. Among Bali’s many man-made attractions are its luxurious hotels including OSSOTEL and Bali’s greatest pride, the famous Waterbom Waterpark.

Waterbom lies in Bali’s Kuta region and is near some of the finest of Legian hotel options. Regarded as one of Bali’s finest family entertainment centres, the sprawling 3.8 hectare Waterbom Waterpark includes world-class rides and many restaurants and shops thus earning its place among the world’s top 5 best Waterparks. Determined to maintain its family-friendly standards, the Park has been built to the highest safety standards and is an EarthCheck Silver Benchmarked company that is committed to being environmentally sustainable. For the thousands who flock to the Park each year, Waterbom is the ideal family getaway.

Open daily from 9 a.m to 6 p.m, visitors can purchase a ticket and enter a world where relaxation and enjoyment is a motto. Take an exhilarating ride on ‘Fast ‘N Fierce’ or on the dramatic ‘Double Twist’ that transports visitors through heart-stopping twists and sharp vertical drops. Take in the breathtaking views of the Kuta skyline while you snake through the Park on ‘The Pipeline’ or take the 16 meter-long ride on ‘Climax’ and end your ride in a ‘splash’ in the pool below. Spend a relaxing afternoon drifting along Waterbom’s ‘Lazy River’ and admire the gentle ride through waterfalls and foliage.

Enjoy some quiet time in the cool shade of the poolside thatch-roof gazebos and have a refreshing drink at Sunken Poolside Bar or at the new Thai Italian Restaurant that serves the finest fusion cuisine. Visit the Reflexology Centre for a soothing massage and dip your feet into the pond at the Fish Spa. Grab a hotdog and juice from one of the Park’s many food stalls before shopping for chic swimwear and gear at Waterbom’s Retail space and have the expenses charged automatically to your ‘Splashband’ to be paid when leaving the Park after a memorable day spent in Bali’s widely-acclaimed national treasure.

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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Yala National Park

The Yala National Park is the most visited wild life park in Sri Lanka. It has a variety of ecosystems, including moist monsoon forests, dry monsoon forests, semi deciduous forests, thorn forests, grasslands, fresh water and marine wetlands, sandy beaches and plenty of wild life. Safari in Yala Sri Lanka is best served, staying in Deep South beachfront hotels, like the Cantaloupe Aqua which is situated at Talpe.

Among the 44 species of mammals that reside in Yala National Park, elephants, Sri Lankan Leopards, Sri Lankan sloth bears, wild water buffalos, Toque macaques, golden palm civets, red slender Lories, and fishing cats are some of the most prominent. Yala is one of the great national parks of Asia and the best location in the world to spot Leopards in the wild. It has about 350 Sri Lankan wild elephants and the highest leopard density in the world. Yala is an important bird watching area in Sri Lanka. Among 215 bird species of the park, six are endemic to Sri Lanka like the Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka jungle fowl the National Bird of Sri Lanka and many migrant wetland water birds.

Among the 47 reptiles seen in Yala, the Sri Lankan krait, Sri Lankan flying snake, painted-lip lizard, fan-throated lizard are some of the endemic species. The coastal line is visited by the all five globally endangered sea turtles for laying eggs- a wondrous sight that can be seen in the night. The two crocodile species found in Sri Lanka inhabit the park, these being the mugger crocodile and the saltwater crocodile.

There are 18 amphibians species seen in Yala, while, two buffalo species are endemic to Sri Lanka; crabs and prawns are found in the lagoons with many fish species as well. A variety of butterfly species such as the common bluebottle, common lime butterfly, crimson rose, common Jezebel, and common Mormon are also found here.

Yala is closed in September each year to give the wild animals some respite from the large amount of vehicles entering the reserve. Thus it can be said that, a Yala safari during other months is a must for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka.

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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Whale Watching in Mirissa

Referred to as the pearl of the Indian Ocean due to its shape, Sri Lanka however a treasure because of the unlimited amount of resources is truly available within it. Showered with endless blessings the island is often referred to as the paradise island. The ocean around the island is a habitat for a wide variety of marine life. Whale watching in Mirissa has become a hot spot among many tourists to catch a glimpse of some of the rarest sites of these breath taking creatures of the ocean.

All around the island one could find number of beaches, however some of the very first resort destinations were born in the South. Since then the region has been famous among tourist. Abandon accommodation options are available here. A popular choice among visitors has been Cantaloupe Levels. Having a total of 9 rooms this boutique hotel offers some of the great panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The location of the hotel is ideal to explore the towns around it such as Unawatuna , Hikkaduwa, Galle and Mirissa among others.

Mirissa in the South of the country is regarded as the paradise for Whale watching in Sri Lanka. The season for Whale watching starts in November and April. Just before and after the season given the seas are calm and warm there still maybe a chance to witness these sea giants put on a show. Some of the species of whales that can be spotted in and around the Oceans of Mirissa is Blue whale, Bryde Whale, Sperm Whales, Fin Whales and sometimes Killer Whales. On these tours one can also spot fish such as Blue Fin Tuna, Flying fish and Sea Turtles.

There are various tour operators offering various packages and there are sometimes hotel operated tours as well. The ideal time to go into the ocean would be the early hours of the morning.

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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Koh Samui Canopy Adventures

If you’re a certain kind of person that is a thrill-seeker and nature hunter, then the world has a special place that will be a true retreat for you. The kingdom of Thailand contains a bounty of serene sights, ranging from lush rainforests, stunning coral reefs, and glamorous beaches. There is one island in particular that enables tourists to experience her wonders in a manner that is one of a kind. The island in mention is Koh Samui, and her canopy adventure concept involves travelling at break-neck speeds over the rainforests commando-style, through the use of a zip line.
Foreign visitors looking to experience a thrilling vacation in a tropical landscape has many an accommodation option to select from within the island of Koh Samui, since it is a very popular tourist destination with hotel occupancy rates reaching upwards beyond seventy percent during peak seasons. A place that stands above the rest for providing adrenaline fueled activities among five-star service is the Anantara Lawana Samui Resort & Spa, a famous Samui beach resort that attracts thrill-seekers and those who love serenity simultaneously.
Tourists have been flying over the rainforests of Koh Samui since 2009, which was when the Koh Samui Canopy adventures came into existence, providing a zip-line adventure where tourists, strapped to a harness can soar through the forests and catch first hand glimpses of all her wonders. The ride is divided into four sections, with the first section starting off smooth and gentle, with the subsequent ones gradually increasing in intensity. Riders can witness green pastures, tropical foliage, panoramic coastlines and in one instance, a majestic waterfall that leads to a swimming hole where they can cool off after their adventure.
The Koh Samui Canopy adventures can be enjoyed by anyone, with no experience required in order to participate. All one has to do is follow the guide’s instructions and then soar through unspoilt rainforest. So head over to Thailand and experience the ride of your lifetime.

 

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 travelers.

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Whale and Dolphin Watching, Mirissa

You scan the horizon, stretching into infinity. Morning has broken and the sounds of the sea are all around. The waves lap against the hull as you push deeper into the great azure that is the Indian Ocean. Suddenly up ahead you spot movement. A huge form, primordial like, slowly breaks to the surface as you watch with bated breath. Rising above just long enough for you to witness the sheer majesty and awe-inspiring size is the unforgettable sight of a blue whale, swimming wild and free in its ocean home. Whale watching in Mirissa, Sri Lanka certainly offers an amazing journey of discovery out to sea!

Mirissa can be found along the South Coast of the country and if you are in search of beach hotels in Sri Lanka along this stretch of shoreline, then consider options such as Citrus Waskaduwa. Plan an excursion from here to Mirissa Harbour where whale and dolphin watching trips begin early morning, generally between 6.30 – 7.00 am. The best time to spot whales is from November to April, with December to March being considered the peak period for sightings.

Your voyage out to sea can last anywhere from 3 to 5 hours and while there is no guarantee of seeing these magnificent marine mammals, it is an adventure nevertheless. Not as elusive as the whale are the different varieties of dolphins that inhabit these waters. Spinner and bottlenose dolphins are the most commonly seen varieties here. However the main draw are the whales be it blue, fin or sperm whales that have been spotted in the seas around Miriisa.

Make sure you bring along some suntan lotion, sun glasses and hats or caps because though it is relatively early morning, it can get quite hot. Also carry a pair of binoculars if you have one and it goes without saying to bring a camera or camcorder with you to capture that special moment when you see your first whale. Also have some sea sickness pills just in case; the constant rocking of the boat may test ‘landlubbers!’

 

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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Madu River Mangrives

Located within the Galle district of the Southern province of Sri Lanka, is the beautiful coastal town of Unawatuna, a major tourist attraction notorious for its pristine, unspoiled beaches. Many believe that the paradise mentioned the epic poem Ramayana is actually Unawatuna, due to the almost identical descriptions. For anyone visiting this magnificent locale, there are a wide variety of accommodation options available given its popularity as a tourist hot spot. One of the most elite of such locales is Cantaloupe Levels, a luxurious boutique hotel.

Although the beaches are always the spotlight of Unawatuna, there are many unique and special aspects of the coastal town that are constantly overlooked. The mangroves of Madu River contain a bounty of diverse ecological treasures just waiting to be discovered. The most popular way one can do so is through a Madu River boat ride, where one can completely immerse themselves in the tranquility and suspense of the Madu River. The suspense is due to the Madu River playing refuge to certain species of crocodile amongst its diverse portfolio of fauna. The Madu River is also highly popular by bird-watchers due to the one hundred plus exotic species of feather-bound creatures that inhabit its reaches. In addition to the ecological treasures, the river safari will also bestow upon anyone embarking on it, a first-hand glimpse of the River’s historical significance, where one can explore the dozens of islet that scatter the area. Most of these are home to local communities that have inhabited the land for generations, with most of them carrying out the traditional task of cinnamon peeling. One of the islets, the one known as ‘Koth Duwa’, is the site of an ancient Buddhist temple that dates back to the Ancient kings of Sri Lanka.

So hop aboard a boat and embark on an adventure along the Madu River where nature and history await.

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. Google+

Maduganga River Safari

Madu Ganga, a coastal wetland ecosystem and estuary located at Balapitiya, is a virgin mangrove forest in Sri Lanka. The best way to experience the beauty of this is by boat. This safari takes one through cool and shady mangrove caves, secluded islands, cinnamon plantations, ancient temples and plenty more. This river safari is the one of the best things to do in Bentota while staying at the beautiful Saman Villas hotel.

The river has around 64 islands, and is also a birdwatcher’s paradise and home to exotic bird species. As cruising along the river, one passes through thick mangrove vegetation, monkeys chilling on treetops, and giant water monitors weaving through the waters. Further upstream, kraal-fishing constructions made of bamboo, used for prawn fishing is plentiful. A collection of islets is found in this region, from tiny specks housing deserted shrines, to larger ones home to over 250 families connected to the mainland by a footbridge. One can see these inhabitants engaged in traditional cottage industries like fishing and cinnamon production.

Cruising along, one can visit the cultural landmark the Kothdoowa Raja Viharya. This ancient temple is on a beautiful setting on the river, where one can feed the friendly mountain squirrels that reside on the island, receive blessing from the head priest, take a tour of the temple and discover the 130 year old Bo tree.

The boat ride stops over at a floating fish farm where one have a can an extremely unique pedicure, where, hundreds of red tilapia fish in a small square begin to nibble at the feet when dipped in to the water. This fish nibbling can be quite relaxing.

There is also an island where cinnamon products are made. A small demonstration doneby a local shows how the cinnamon bark is peeled and processed. One can buy fresh cinnamon and cinnamon oil here.

Thus a Maduganga river safari can be an exhilarating experience while visiting Bentota.

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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Eco Adventures in Turks and Caicos

A big blue escape into heaven, the Turks and Caicos archipelago holds many wonders for you to explore. The islands are recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots due to the conditions created by the oldest established salt-pan development in the Caribbean. So if you’re heading out to the islands of wonder, eco tours should be at the top of the list of things to do in Turks and Caicos.

While you hop from island to island exploring its rich biodiversity, it’s essential that you are comfortably based, and Parrot Cay by COMO, Turks & Caicos is just the perfect getaway for you as this premier among luxury resorts in the Caribbean arranges eco tours in affiliation with Big Blue Unlimited, the most comprehensive watersports and eco-tour outfit in the islands. With these tours you will get to visit an 18th Century cotton plantation and get to know about the early agricultural history of the islands; the Kew village where you will be treated to an exotic Turks and Caicos lunch, and then travel to the Flamingo Pond Nature Reserve to see the beloved national bird. The tour also includes visits to Middle Caicos that consists of extensive limestone caves, Mudjin Harbour with its beautiful beaches and cliffs; and go shopping for local handicrafts.

Turks and Caicos boast a wide variety of endemic species and others of international importance such as lizards, snakes, insects and plants. It is also recognized as an important breeding ground. But the real adventure and magic lies underneath its crystal, clear waters. Take a dive and explore Columbus Landfall Marine National Park which has a 1,280 acre area that consists of a barrier reef system with coral walls dropping more than 7,000 feet. Other than the colourful corals, schools of vibrant fish of many species and colours are there to delight you.

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. Google+

The Kandy Esala Perahara

One of the most popular cities of Sri Lanka is the historic city of Kandy. Considered to be the capital of the island’s Hill Country, Kandy was the seat of the last king of Sri Lanka and is also home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Known for its amazing scenery, ancient buildings & structures, and rich history and culture, the city of Kandy is a must visit destination. If you are in search of accommodation while looking for things to do in Kandy, consider staying at the luxurious Earl’s Regent Kandy which is an ideal starting point to your adventures.

One of the most famous processions held in Sri Lanka is the Kandy Esala Perahara. It is easily the grandest religious procession in the island and is rich in history, while being one of the iconic symbols of Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka. Taking place either in the month of July or August, this perahara (procession) is organized to honour and pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. The perahara is elaborate and grand and is one of the best ways to experience Sri Lankan culture.

Although the Sacred Tooth Relic was in Sri Lanka for many centuries, the procession was inaugurated by King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha in the 18th Century. From this point onward, the perahara has been one of the most popular processions in the island. The procession involves the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha being placed within a golden casket and mounted on the back of an elaborately decorated tusker that is taken in procession. The procession involves a plethora of traditional dancers, fire breathers, jugglers, musicians, and many elephants adorning elaborate decorations and colourful paraphernalia. The elephant carrying the Sacred Tooth Relic casket, however, is the highlight of the entire spectacle. Following the main procession, there are four other smaller perahara’s to honour the four guardian ‘Gods’; Vishnu, Katharagama, Natha, and Patthini.
The pageantry, grandeur and enchantment of the Kandy Esala Perahara is therefore a must witness event in Sri Lanka.

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. Google+

Ocean Park Hong Kong

Whether you are a first timer or a regular visitor, there is always something new to be surprised and delighted by in Hong Kong. Located in south-eastern China but a British colony for many years, the city is unique blend of East and West. English is acknowledged as an official language and widely spoken by the locals. International visitors will find travelling within Hong Kong easy because street signs and maps are also marked in English. The city welcomes a large number of travellers every year and a budget hotel in Hong Kong is a top priority for many. There is also plenty to see and do that will not put a dent in your wallet.

Ocean Park is one of the top attractions in Hong Kong. It is a marine-life theme park that has been in operation since 1977. The attraction has several animal exhibits but also offers thrill rides and shows. In 2012 it was awarded the biannual Applause Award for creating a unique experience that successfully combines entertainment with education. The Park has also pledged its commitment to promoting and supporting animal conservation in Hong Kong and throughout Asia. Part of the proceeds from entrance fees and some items sold in the souvenir shop are directed towards the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation Hong Kong in support of wildlife conservation projects. The park is located on the southern side of the Island and short hop away is the Dorsett Mongkok Hong Kong, a great option for the thrifty traveller.

Ocean Park celebrates each holiday season with special events like Halloween Bash, the biggest Halloween party in Asia and Summer Splash for the summer season. Rides and exhibits like the Amazing Asian Animals, Rainforest, Adventures in Australia and Polar Adventure allow you to meet the most fascinating animals from all across the world. Thrill Mountain promises a rush of adrenalin and Shark Mystique will bring you nose to nose with some of the most feared ocean dwellers.

 

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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