Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Hin Ta and Hin Yai, an unforgettable sight

The rock formations known as Hin Yai and Hin Ta are well known attractions in the Thai island of Koh Samui. To experience these and other local highlights whilst making the most of your holiday it is important to base yourself at an attractive Samui hotel such as the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort & Spa. This appealing resort offers comfortable accommodations and an array of convenient amenities.

Hin Yai and Hin Ta are a couple of intriguing natural rock structures which for innumerable years has been the cause of laughter and fascination amongst the local residents as well as visitors to the area. This is because these two rocks, Yai (Grandma) and Ta (Grandpa) are thought to resemble the female and male genitalia respectively. Located on the rocky shores in the environs of Lamai beach, this pair of rock formations never fails to raise amused chuckles or at least an indulgent smile.

Additionally the visitor from abroad will enjoy spectacular panoramic views from this location, extending across the waters to the nearby islets. Although the local beach is not a suitable location for swimming, it does offer an attractive place to rest after a day of exploration and exertion. The waters here are so exceedingly clear that different kinds of marine creatures can be viewed from above the surface.

In these environs you will also find a community of Muslim fisher folk who live much as they have for generations. In these surroundings the visitor will also find a picturesque environment of fields and plantations with the local water buffalo a common sight. This was in fact the typical mode of life in these areas before the development of tourism. However the visitor will also come across numerous stalls and kiosks offering picture postcards of the location, souvenirs, snacks and drinks. A visit to this part of Thailand will certainly be a satisfying experience.

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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Enjoy Sunset Hand Line Fishing Excursions in Paradise Archipelago Maldives

Travellers on the lookout for luxurious Maldives hotels with villa accommodation will be more than pleased with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas. Offering guests the best in contemporary amenities in a tranquil setting this beachside resort is one of the finest rests in the region.

Maldives is a group of 1190 islands famous for its clear blue seas, white, sandy beaches and perhaps as a holiday destination that one simply cannot afford to miss on a tour of Asia. Although many enjoy snorkeling and sunbathing and engaging in various water sports activities in this holiday Mecca a vacation in the Maldives would be incomplete without trying one’s hand at the traditional form of hand line fishing.

Also known as bottom fishing or legering, night fishing, this method of fishing is available in many of the archipelago’s divine resorts. As an ancient form of fishing, it is fishing method in which the bait is put on a hook and dropped to the bottom of the sea with a weight. The line is pulled back up a little from the sea bed so that it does not get entangled in the corals littering the ocean floor. Then it’s a matter of waiting and enjoying a breathtaking sunset or a starry night sky while anticipating a tug at the end of the line. The day’s catch is cooked for the fisherman and consumed by the fishing party according to local custom.

As many forms of commercial fishing is forbidden in most islands in Maldives, hand line fishing is one of the most common forms of fishing available in the Maldives in addition to pelagic fishing and reef fishing.

Hand line fishing is most often carried out in small boats named Bokkuraas. Three to four people can ride in these boats for the duration of a 4 to 5 hour trip. Different types of bait ranging from live bait to fish waste are used to catch different types of fish. These tours are organized by many of the resorts and hotels in Maldives to let tourists enjoy an ancient method of fishing still in practice today.

Maldivians made their livelihood from the sea. Passed on from generation to generation the traditions of the fisherman can still be experienced by an outsider. All those who experience fishing in the Maldives for even one day will come to learn of the respect and love locals have for the sea and the delicate balance that must be maintained for the survival of man and nature.

 

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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Safari in Koh Phangan

Travellers in search of the finest Koh Phangan Resorts in Thailand will be more than pleased with the stylish Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa. Providing guests with the crème de la crème in spa facilities this luxury rest offers scenic villa accommodation for holidaymakers and families on vacation.

Regarded as one of the most intriguing corners of Thailand, Koh Phangan is a natural wonder worthy of deep exploration. Blessed with white, sandy beaches and lush mountainous and forested regions the island packs in the best of both worlds with plenty of wildlife and natural attributes littering its fringes. Frequented by nature lovers from around the world this veritable paradise on earth is best discovered on safari tours across land and water. Tailor made to the requirements of specific travel groups the plethora of safari options on offer allows visitors a rare glimpse in to the true beauty and majesty of this lesser known island wonder.

Among the island’s most popular safari adventures is its elephant trekking safari which sets of from the fishing village of Caloklum in the northern fringes of Koh Phangan. The duration of the tour varies from half an hour to an hour with visitors taking in the magnificent sights of Koh Tao which includes face time with the island’s infamous gentle giants. The Rainforest Adventure Tour is equally engaging for nature lovers as it involves adrenalin pumping activities such as zip lining across a tropical forest, visit to an elephant camp and village, snorkeling in Koh Ma Island and swimming in the natural pool beneath Phaeng Waterfalls.

Those who wish to explore all that Koh Phangan has to offer on one safari excursion can opt for a safari boat adventure which takes visitors from the meeting point at Thong Sala to breathtaking Bottle Beach. Elephant rides and kayaking adventures in Koh Tae Nai Island are also part of the itinerary which includes snorkelling in Haad Khom.

Safari boat excursions to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan in Koh Phangan are also popular with snorkeling and water sports enthusiasts as the itinerary involves exploring the stunning coral reefs at Sairee Bay, Hin Wong, Mango and Tian Nok as well as a tour of famed Koh Nangyuan.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Abu Dhabi Waterfront Park

Travellers on the lookout for villa accommodation in Abu Dhabi will find no finer alternative to the iconic Anantara Al Sahel Villas. Ideally situated in a strategic location this elegant rest is also ranked among the finest resorts Abu Dhabi has on offer.

Tipped to be one of the most scenic corners of the city the Abu Dhabi Waterfront Park is a one of a kind attraction in the Emirati nation. Offering visitors breathtaking oceanic views from a wave fringed walkway this iconic waterfront path is a breathtaking venue that is also an architectural marvel that highlights the natural surroundings of Al Bateen. As the most popular feature of the Abu Dhabi waterfront project the water park is flanked by the ocean front developments of Al Bateen.

Famed for its wave shaped borders the stunningly designed venue is as captivating as the Abu Dhabi Corniche with its futuristic design elements that compliments its location at the water’s edge. Offering visitors unparalleled views of the ocean and the cityscape the venue is also a revered observation point for locals as well as travellers. Providing panoramic views across the water of the iconic sky-piercing structures that lie on either side of the bay the Abu Dhabi Waterfront Park is the first place tourist should head to once landing in the holiday Mecca as it offers travellers an all encompassing view of the city’s beauty and potential as a touristic haven.

Perfect for families the venue is ideal for talking leisurely walks after a busy day while those who wish to engage in a picnic can also visit the Waterfront Park for a relaxing evening surrounded by soft breezes and truly awe-inspiring views. Spread out across several miles the Waterfront Park will be surrounded by various lifestyle attractions in the near future. The brainchild of Bloom Properties, exclusive retail outlets and luxury residences are set to take centre stage in the coming years. Premium restaurants and chic cafes will also be established in the area while trendy restaurants will offer those who visit the park a plethora of fine dining experiences in addition to mind-blowing ocean vistas.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Al Hamar

The desert Emirate of Dubai has over the years made a name for itself as a premier tourist destination, offering an array of noteworthy attractions. In Dubai you will have the chance to enjoy sensational shopping opportunities, a host of sightseeing attractions and a laidback cosmopolitan ambience. Visitors considering a tour of the Emirate interested in staying at a Palm Jumeirah hotel will be pleased by Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa. Such an accommodation will provide well-furnished rooms and courteous service and makes an ideal base from which to set out on one’s adventures.

A not to be missed activity when exploring the region is dune bashing and wadi bashing. Dune bashing involves powerful four wheel drive vehicles, dune buggies or quad bikes which are used to drive up and down sand dunes in the desert. Skilled drivers can do this competently, racing through the sand at great speed. It is certainly an experience to be treasured, which can only be enjoyed at a select few locations in the world.

Travellers to Dubai should take the opportunity to visit the immense sand dune known as Al Hamar, or Big Red. This well-known attraction is conveniently reached from Dubai city and may be visited in the morning or the afternoon. This colossal dune, no less than 300 feet in height, has slopes that are as steep as those of a ski run. The distinctive reddish colour of its sand is a result of a high content of iron oxide.

Al Hamar is a popular visitor attraction, luring a steady stream of leisure seekers, both local residents and tourists from abroad. However this does not detract from the pleasure of visiting this attractive leisure destination. If you lack a suitable four wheel drive vehicle you may hire an off road vehicle from a specialist company. You will also have the options of hiring a quad bike or a camel ride at the attraction itself, although you cannot actually ascend the dune in this manner.

All around the vicinity of Al Hamar you will see a host of little shops and kiosks which offer snacks and souvenirs. The visitors at the dune itself will all be in a joyous mood and you too will be enthralled by this marvel of nature.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Swim In Bimah Sinkhole

Regarded as one of the world’s most stunning naturally formed sinkholes the Bimah Sinkhole is an Omani national treasure in its own right. Occupying pride of place within Hawiyat Najm Park (which literally translates to Meteor Fall Park in the native language) the Bimah Sinkhole is a picture perfect tourist attraction one is likely to find on a postcard rather than the heart of a desert. Easily accessible to travellers driving from Qurayat to the city of Sur the locale is situated just off the main highway, with Tiwi a few kilometres away. Tourists vacationing in the country’s capital Muscat need only drive 1.5 hours to reach the famed natural wonder situated near the Al Sharqiyah region.

Travellers on the lookout for a luxury resort in Oman to base themselves at will be more than pleased with the resplendent accommodation at Alila Jabal Akdhar. Ideally situated in a strategic location this elegant rest provides contemporary amenities for both business travellers as well as holidaymakers. Once settled in, make sure to plan a trip to Bimah Sinkhole.

Formed due to the natural erosion of a limestone cavern the sink hole was created when the rocks dissolved due to extended contact with water to reveal the crevice that is known as a “sinkhole”. Locals however prefer the legend of a meteorite falling on the rock’s surface to create the curious geographical anomaly. Connected with the ocean through a submerged tunnel the turquoise and emerald hued waters within the sinkhole is in fact sea water although the venue resembles a fresh water lake in appearance. A mere 550m from the ocean the turquoise pool inside the Bimah Sinkhole is nearly 20m deep and 40m wide. A miniscule fish species is also believed to occupy the pool and harmlessly nibble the toes of swimmers when in contact.

Accessible through a series of concrete steps that lead visitors from the top of the highway to the base of the crevice known as the Bimah Sinkhole the venue is a popular stopover point for shutterbugs hoping to capture the staggering beauty of the locale. Surrounded by limestone cliff faces, taking a dip in the sinkhole is a magical experience for travellers as the sheer majesty of the towering cavern and its crystal clear waters is breathtaking to say the least.

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+

Discover Singapore’s Latest Wildlife Reserve on a Tour of River Safari

Quietly nestled in between the Lion City’s foremost wildlife reserves, the Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari enclosure lies the country’s latest addition to an already illustrious list of attractions for nature lovers. Built at a cost of $160 million, River Safari is home to the globe’s most expansive freshwater aquarium as well as the largest panda showcase in Southeast Asia. Boasting one of the world’s most extensive collections of freshwater fauna, River Safari houses more than 6000 creatures which include 40 endangered species of wildlife. As the famed home of Singapore’s famed resident Pandas Jia Jia and Kai Kai a tour of the River Safari is a must-have experience for all holidaymakers visiting the Lion City. Based on the world’s iconic rivers the state-of-the-art wildlife sanctuary occupies a vast expanse with the Upper Seletar Reservoir serving as the backdrop.

 

Having opened its doors to the public in early 2014 the 12 hectare space is also the home of the Amazon Flooded Forest and the Squirrel Monkey Forest although its chief attraction is the famed Giant Panda Forest where Singapore’s only resident Giant Pandas reside. As ten year loans from China the magnificent creatures named Jia Jia and Kai Kai occupy a specially built climate-controlled area of River Safari while a special variety of bamboo is also grown by the zoo’s own 86,000 square foot cultivation region to feed the furry inhabitants.
The Mississippi River at River Safari explores the world of beavers and endangered Mississippi paddlefish and alligators while the Congo is home to the world’s biggest freshwater puffer fish. Tiger fish and finned birchirs occupy the River Nile while the Ganges is littered with goonch catfish, crocodilian Indian gharial and soft-shell turtles. The Murray River in contrast boasts inhabitants the likes of barramundi, crab fish and the nearly 2m long Murray Cod.
The Mekong River is home to giant freshwater stingrays and Mekong catfish while giant salamanders occupy the Yangtze River. In Wild Amazonia visitors can hop on board the Amazon River Quest where spider monkeys, Brazilian Tapirs and jaguars await while the Amazon Flooded Forest ecological showcase is equally engaging.
Refreshments are available at the River Safari Tea House and the Mama Panda Kitchen while memorabilia and souvenirs can be purchased at the River Safari Shop or House of Kai Kai & Jia Jia.

 

Travellers in search of trendy hotels in Singapore should look no further than the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Singapore group. Providing guests with the best in contemporary amenities the stylish Singapore hotels under this flagship hospitality conglomerate offer unforgettable vacations in the Lion City.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.Google+

Potters of Koh Kret

The history of pottery can be traced back centuries and the oldest evidence of its existence was found at the Xianrendong Cave in the Republic of China. Archaeologists continue to discover such evidence across the globe indicating its popularity worldwide. However, due to the use of fire and also considering the lengthy period of time necessary for shaping the clay, archaeological evidence indicates that pottery came into existence subsequent to humankind achieving a sedentary life. This, in combination with the discovery of fire lead to the development of pottery with potters creating vessels using a variety of techniques such as hand shaping, firing, glazing and later on, kilns. Through such methods, different varieties of pottery such as earthenware, stoneware and porcelain were created.

The island of Ko Kret located in the vicinity of Bangkok Thailand is well known for pottery. Located on the Chao Phraya River, tourists and travellers can enjoy examining the various styles and different types of pottery at the Museum of Kwan Aman Pottery. This museum is home to a collection of Mon design ceramics, which are ancient and considered quite valuable as the Mon people were considered to be talented potters. The museum itself is open from 9am to 5pm daily and is definitely worth a visit for it provides an intriguing insight into an integral component of the lifestyle of the locals. For those who choose to visit the Assembly of Pottery Craft a demonstration of how these creations are made awaits them and tourists will also have the convenient opportunity to purchase such vessels as souvenirs or to give as gifts once they return.

Those who wish to visit the village can opt for a Bangkok cruise tour, namely the Chao Phraya Express on Sundays for the price of just three hundred baht. Such Bangkok cruises allow tourists to visit villages such as Ko Kret with minimum hassle and conveniently. Given the cultural diversity and rich heritage the Thai are privy to, the country is filled to the brim with exciting and intriguing landmarks and places of interest. Ensure that you soak in the local culture by opting for Anantara Cruises that provides tourists with the opportunity to mingle with the locals and see the sights both conveniently and comfortably.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Lal Bagh

The well-known Lal Bagh, which translates as ‘Red Garden’ is a popular botanical garden located in the southern section of Bangalore. This attractive park was constructed under the decree of the monarch of Mysore, Hyder Ali and was completed during the rule of his son and successor Tipu Sultan. Interestingly Lal Bagh is thought to have been modelled on the Mughal Garden which at one time stood proudly in Sira, a location which was once part of the Mughal Empire.

Lal Bagh is considered noteworthy for featuring an excellent glass house where a yearly flower exhibition is held. The garden is also renowned for containing the most extensive selection of tropical plants in India. It also features a lake as well as an aquarium, and is recognized as one of Bangalore’s foremost visitor attractions.

Lal Bagh extends over a vast extent of no less than 240 acres, making it without question one of the major botanical attractions in the subcontinent. Its most significant flower show is conducted on January 26th, or Republic Day; a number of other floral exhibitions are also held at this venue.

In total the visitor will find more than 1,000 varieties of flora here, including some trees which are more than a century old. One of the garden’s most esteemed exhibits is some unusual varieties of plants which were brought over from Afghanistan, Persia and France. The garden displays aesthetic beauty, having been landscaped with elements such as flowerbeds, lawns, fountains and lotus pools. Many of the exhibits are labelled for convenient identification. The visitor will see that a tower constructed by the founder of the city, Kempe Gowda is located within the garden. Another significant attraction at this site is the fascinating Lal Bagh Rock, which is an ancient rock formation considered to be amongst the oldest on the globe.

Another noteworthy attraction which will draw the interest of the visitor is the folk fair which is conducted at the gardens on the second as well as the fourth weekend of each month. At this event you will be able to see local folk music, dance and plays.

The selective visitor considering 5 star Bangalore hotels will find an appealing choice in the Alila Bangalore. One of the outstanding Bangalore luxury hotels this fine rest offers attractive accommodations and courteous hospitality.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Xishuangbanna Nationality Culture Park

Tipped to be one of the must-visit highlights on a tour of southern Yunnan, the Xishuangbanna Nationality Culture Park is a cultural icon of sorts on the shores of Liusha River. Ideally located within 1km of Jinghong City, this sprawling enclave occupies a whopping 165 acres of the area’s most pristine landscapes. Frequented by tourists and locals alike, the park serves as a miniaturized representation of Xishuangbanna with its natural environment, folk customs and culture replicated in the heart of southern Yunnan.

Divided according to direction, the southern corner of the Xishuangbanna Nationality Culture Park houses three designated tourist hubs. This includes a tropical fruit enclosure, a plant and vegetation zone as well as a swimming and sunbathing area. Rare plant species such as varieties of amomum, arecas and palms are found within the plant enclosure which houses 10 species of endangered plants. The tropical fruit garden in the park on the other hand houses a 99 acre orchard and a 9 acre coffee plantation within its confines. Fruit trees the likes of jackfruit, mango, coconut, grapefruit, carambola and lichee are found in the venue which also allows visitors to pick the fruits in season. A wildlife compound with elephants and various bird species is also found on the northern fringes of the orchard.

The northern section of the culture park however is dedicated to the ethnic minorities of Xishuangbanna as well as their traditional residences and customs. Exploring the cultural identity of the Lahu, Hani, Bland, Dai, Yao and Jinuo communities, visitors can witness local festivals such as dragon boat races, water dousing festivals as well as wedding rituals of the Dai populace in this area of the park. Bamboo firework displays and bamboo raft races are also conducted at the locale which also showcases traditional dance performances by Yunnan’s ethnic minorities. The four dance auditoriums at the park stage outdoor performances such as the Jinuo Tom Tom Dance, the Dai Peacock Dance and the Lahu Trichord Dance which involves 4 to 400 performers on specific days of the week.

Travellers on the lookout for a luxurious hotel in Yunnan should look no further than the stylish Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa. Providing guests with the crème de la crème in contemporary amenities this is one hotel Yunnan counts among its finest spa resorts.

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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