Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

A day out at the Elephant Safari Park

Bali, the Indonesian Island is one of the most magical places on earth that one would come across. The island is rich with natural beauty, culture, historical importance and bright and vibrant life styles. The charming town of Ubud, is part and parcel of this beautiful island. This area holds a variety of attractions that would lure any visitor to revisit. Ubud Monkey Forest is a sacred place while fascinating, temples, monuments and much more can be found while exploring this beautiful town. The Elephant Safari Park is the other amazing place that one could visit while in Ubud.

Elephants are fascinating and magnificent animals that are the largest animals to roam on earth, but they are nearing towards extinction. All countries who own these giant creatures put huge efforts to protect them. The same can be witnessed at the Elephant Safari Park at Ubud where visitors get the opportunity to enjoy a complete experience with these animals. The park has been home to the elephants for more than a decade, and still is well maintained and clean. Visitors get the opportunity to just stroll on the walkway and experience the lifestyle patterns of these mammals while they eat, bathe sleep and do various other activities in their natural habitats.

Built closer and similar to their natural habitats you would come across elephants walking down the paths that you do, without even a second glance to the passersby. Elephants painting their own masterpieces would be a sight that anyone would definitely want to witness. To add more colour to your trip take a ride on one of these gentle animals which has been the vehicle for many kings for thousands of years. The teak wood chair is comfortable and safe and will help you enjoy the cool forest surroundings around you. There are stalls that sell souvenirs, gifts, elephant paintings, carvings, clothing and much more, so that you could do a bit of shopping to take home some sweet memories.

After visiting these great and gentle creatures, go back and relax at one of the magnificent accommodation facilities in the area. Hotels in Seminyak are varied but W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak is one of the best. This 5 star hotel Seminyak is modern, elegant and would pamper you throughout your stay with its great hospitality, modern amenities and much more.

On the Wild Side

Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi, the largest natural island in the Emirates is also the site of one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves, the 4,200 ha Arabian Wildlife Park. Established in the 1970s careful conservation, re-vegetation and ecological management has made it the home of more than 10,000 free roaming animals and millions of trees and plants. The world’s largest herd of Arabian Oryx, varieties of antelope and gazelles, giraffes, different types of deer and sheep roam free as do predators such as hyenas and cheetahs. These are among its 30 species of mammals and more than a hundred indigenous species of birds that are part of the amazing collection of wildlife here. The aim of the park is to have only indigenous animals. All the animals within the park are indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula. Non indigenous species are being removed along with human interferences such as roads and old irrigation pipes. Sir Bani Yas Island is located 250 km southwest of Abu Dhabi and 9 km from Jebel Dhanna the crossing point. The island offers a range of nature based activities that include many interesting ways to see the wildlife such as the world’s first zero emission buses, purpose built viewing platforms, cruising and sailing itineraries on the Arabian Gulf, 4×4 nature and wildlife drives accompanied by naturalists and guided nature and wildlife walks.

Nature & wildlife walks are accommodated on the eastern side of the island. Small groups of no more than seven persons walk through the bush for 1.5 hours with a special guide and learn about the flora and fauna as well as to observe Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Axis, Urial and Red Deer feed, gather in family groups, play or lie in the shade of toothbrush trees that form a major part of the park’s vegetation. However the walk is subject to weather conditions. A guided Wadi Walk in a dried up riverbed is another way to catch the wildlife. This takes walkers through the naturally formed salt domed hilltops in the middle of the island. The banks of the dried up river and geological formations contain ancient fossils and minerals. The Arabian Wildlife Park endeavours to provide an authentic environment for the free roaming wildlife resulting in an exceptional experience for visitors.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas located within the Arabian Wildlife Park offers the dream getaway for wildlife enthusiasts. Accommodation comprises of some of the coziest yet luxurious Abu Dhabi villas in one and two bedroom configurations and equipped with pools overlooking the desert wilderness. Stay in one of exceptional resorts Abu Dhabi to experience a unique wildlife sanctuary offering both land and ocean based experiences while enjoying the comforts of Anantara hospitality.

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.

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Museum of Imaging Technology

Digital images and imagery are all around us in the world we live in today and it has become very much a part of our lives. Offering a unique perspective on the history of both analogue photography and how the evolution of the digital age has changed this, is the Museum of Imaging Technology in the Thai capital. Look to find Sukhumvit accommodation when in the city such as Anantara Baan Rajprasong, Bangkok since it offers easy access to the capital. These Bangkok serviced apartments also offer a range of modern comforts ideal for business and leisure travellers alike.

At the Museum of Imaging Technology in Bangkok one can see an array of exhibits that are bound to fascinate and enthral; learn about the evolution of the humble camera along with the development of photographic and printing processes. One can also see various equipments that are used in photography as well as learn more about innovations that are being made in the field of electronic imaging. Apart from darkrooms and studios that will offer more insights into the process and principals of photography, the Museum of Imaging Technology also features a library with multimedia resources that will help you get a better understanding of what goes into taking that perfect picture.

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+

Kumana National Park

If you love watching birds, spending your days exploring nature and getting away from busy city life, then make sure to visit Kumana National Park when next in Sri Lanka. One can look to stay at Sri Lanka boutique hotels along the island’s South Coast such as Saman Villas which offers an idyllic escape by the sea. This luxury hotel Sri Lanka has to offer also features the very best in contemporary comforts to make your holiday all the more memorable.

Located near the famed Yala National Park, the Kumana National Park is where one will find wetland areas as well as a tropical thorn forest which provide this sanctuary its distinct character. The park which attracts a large number of wading birds and migratory waterfowl is a premier site on the island for bird watching. Travellers visiting between April and July have the chance to see a range of migratory birds as they make their way to the Kumana swamp. Those on safaris at Kumana also have a chance to spot other wildlife including elephants and if you’re lucky, even leopards.

 

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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Mount Bromo

Rising to an imposing 2329 metres, Mount Bromo is an essential feature of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and can be reached by staying at a Surabaya hotel in the vicinity. Located in the plain referred to as “Sea of Sand” by locals, this Indonesian volcano will come across as an absorbing tourist hotspot when deciding to stay at an apartment Surabaya is famous for. Somerset Surabaya Hotel and Serviced Residence should be thought of before commencing a journey in this part of the world.

One can either choose to walk to the volcano or hop into a jeep that will easily navigate the rough terrain that features prominently in the area surrounding the mountain. However it is best to look out for any warnings that are issued by the Indonesian Centre for Volcanology and Disaster Hazard Mitigation before heading over to one of the country’s most active volcanoes. The recent eruption took place in 2011. Looking beyond ash clouds and thick lava which you would generally associate with a volcano, Mount Bromo attracts visitors for a variety of reasons. A trip in the wee hours of the morning will provide you with an opportunity to capture the mesmeric view of the sunrise over the mountain. For a taste of local customs, a visit during the months of September – November is advised. This period brings with it the annual celebration of the Kasada Festival where locals are seen throwing vegetables and money into the deep crater of the volcano. This is an experience that must never be missed at any cost.

 

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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Hyde Park Riding Stables

For over three centuries, the intriguingly named “Rotten Row” has gained fame for being England’s most famous riding venue, and all equestrian lovers know to head here to indulge in their beloved passion. Make a day at the stables part of your stay at a luxury hotel London has to offer all elite equestrians, such as The Halkin London, which is considered by many as a prime luxury boutique hotel London has to offer discerning visitors.

For those who would like to try horse-riding out, these famous stables offer lessons for those of all ages and abilities. The staff on hand will pair you with a calm and patient horse or pony if you are nervous, or seat atop a spirited stallion for those more confident of their equestrian skills. Whatever your skill level, you will be able to canter or trot on your steed of choice through a verdant expanse of five miles of bridleways in Hyde Park, alongside the beautifully picturesque Serpentine Lake. Avail yourself of two riding arenas for horse-riding lessons a sight more formal as well as dressage rounds. So visit the stables to add a dose of refined pleasure to your time in this iconic city.

Extraordinary Experiences

The Caribbean comprises of over 700 islands, islets, reefs and cays. The region is renowned for its diversity of terrestrial and marine flora and fauna amongst which is eight percent of the world’s coral reefs. With all these natural resources at its disposal, the region offers unparalleled sightseeing opportunities. Additionally many historic landmarks going back several centuries add to the sightseeing experience.

One of the most enduring pictures of the Caribbean is its gorgeous beachfront scenery from pristine white sand dotted with palm trees to the pink sands of the Bahamas, the black sand of St Lucia lapped at by clear warm blue water. Although some Caribbean beaches are a little rougher than others, they all provide sightseers with stunning views, idyllic places to laze in the sun and valuable opportunities to indulge in some water sports.

Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, forests and natural landmarks of the Caribbean isles are the other much lauded attractions. Among them are active and dormant volcanoes in the Lesser Anitilles group of islands. The most visited is probably La Soufriere the ‘drive in’ active volcano in St Lucia. The regions’ different forest types with flowering plants and tree species are also a joy to explore. Many have hiking trails. St John’s National Park in US Virgin Islands and El Yunque the 28,000 acre rainforest in Puerto Rico are some of these. Limestone caves are also among the popular natural attractions here while Harrison’s Cave in Barbados is one of the most visited. The largest of its kind, visitors board an electric tram to explore the vast cave system that has spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, a 40 foot waterfall and clear pools and streams.

Among the waterfalls is Diamond Mineral Falls in St Lucia. The result of underground sulphur springs, the waterfall is famous for changing colours throughout the day. Dunn’s River Falls Jamaica, a series of waterfalls dropping from 600 feet is a very popular natural attraction.

The Caribbean’s coastal and underwater scenery as well as marine life is probably its biggest attraction. The caverns and tidal pools among the huge boulders by the sea in the British Virgin Islands referred to as The Baths is a favourite with snorkelers and explorers. Sting Ray City in the Grand Caymans where divers encounter hundreds of tame stingrays at 12 feet has been an extremely popular sightseeing destination for a long time. Non divers get to ride out to a sand bar to snorkel or just stand in the shallow water among the sting rays. Bio Bay a shallow bay surrounded by mangrove forests in Vieques is famous for its micro organisms that emit a blue green light reportedly stronger than a flashlight. Sightseers can swim, kayak or take a trip on an electric boat to see this astounding sight. Buck Island Reef in St Croix has been called ‘the finest marine garden in the Caribbean Sea’. This extraordinary coral reef system is made up of several species of hard coral supports more than 250 species of fish and other marine creatures including leatherback, green and hawks bill turtles. One of the most prominent underwater sights however is the Belize Great Barrier Reef, the longest in the Americas.

The abundance of colonial historic sites means that the Caribbean offers some of the most interesting historic sightseeing. The colonial cities of Havana, Trinidad, the Dominican Republic and Haiti, the fortifications of St Juan Puerto Rico, the city of Willemstad in Curacao, St Kitts Brimstone Hill Fortress and the town of St George in Bermuda are the most prominent Caribbean historic destinations. The sites date from end of the 15th century to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Accessed only by boat, Parrot Cay Turks & Caicos provides much sought after privacy and seclusion and offers a thousand ha area and a mile long beach to explore and enjoy the sun and sea. As the only Turks & Caicos beach resort guests can enjoy spacious modern accommodation and a relaxed lifestyle. This Turks & Caicos Luxury resorts offers exceptional services and facilities and Asian inspired therapies to sooth, restore and nourish and guests leave knowing they have had a one of a kind holiday experience.

 

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.

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Xishuangbanna wildlife

Often referred to as the A Green Gem in the Imperial Botanical Crown” or the “Kingdom of plants”, Xishuangbanna located in the Yunnan province in the south of China, with its rolling evergreen mountains and breathtaking scenery is a thriving ground teeming with vibrant wildlife. Book yourself a hotel in Yunnan to better explore this region and Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa is an ideal hotel Yunnan has to offer that would allow you to explore the depths of this wildlife paradise. Amongst the exotic orchids, Chinese parashoreas and giant lianas, one finds a myriad of vibrant butterflies flying amongst the green. One often also sees troops of monkeys and apes playing in the shadows, often swooping down from amongst the trees while some of China’s rarest animals such as the Asiatic elephant, Indian wild ox, white-cheeked gibbon, Indo-Chinese tiger, chevrotain, peacock pheasant, binturong, brown-headed hornbill, and green peacock can be seen here as well which is are rare opportunity that should be cherished for a lifetime.

 

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

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Knuckles Mountains

Located in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka between Matale and Kandy districts, the folds and peaks of this extensive range of mountains stand, resembling the knuckles of a clenched fist which has in turn earned it its name. There is much to explore within these mountains and there are also plenty of hotels Sri Lanka has to offer in the environs which enables you to experience these mountains at ease. Earl’s Regency is one of the most preferred Kandy hotels which allow you all the comforts and peace of mind for such adventure. Harbouring a variety of flora and fauna mostly endemic to Sri Lanka and to the Knuckles Mountain Range, these scenic mountains are considered to be a climatic microcosm of the rest of Sri Lanka. Referred to as The Dumbara Kanduvetiya meaning mist enclosed mountain range by Sinhalese residents of the olden days, the Knuckles Mountain Range is characteristic of thick layers of cloud that often robes the striking landscapes.

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

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Wildlife of Bali Calling to Her Admirers in the Many Voices of the Wild

Hidden in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lies the beautiful island of Bali, wrapped in her charm of the sea, with a voice of the wild untamed. Although Bali is the smallest province of Indonesia, it is the largest tourist destination of the country, and has been so for many decades in the past.

This little island is indeed a treasure trove for those who love the four legged or winged creatures that call the forest their home. Some creatures that roam the deep green jungles are endemic, some are endangered, while the rest are beautiful too to behold in their comforting abundance. Almost 14% of Bali is sacred to these creatures to roam free, undisturbed by their common greatest enemy, the man. These initiatives have ensured that the wildlife of Bali, is a thriving one.

The many little balls with colorful feathers that chirp on leafy branches and pick up fallen twigs to build their crude nests, are all relatives of the family of around 280 species of birds in Bali. Out of these, the Bali Starling with her black tipped tail is one especial, as the bird is critically endangered and endemic. Sacred Kingfisher, Stork billed Kingfisher, Sea Eagle, Lesser Adjutant, Dollarbird, Black Racket-tailed Treepie, Black-naped Oriole, Java Sparrow, Crested serpent-eagle, Yellow- vented Bulbul and the Great Egret are some of the many wonderful feathered creatures that roam the Balinese skies.

Mammals including the wild Banteng, Javan Rusa deer, Wild Boar, Indian Muntjac, Leopard Cat, Sunda Pangolin and Black Giant Squirrel inhabit the forests of Bali. However its greatest treasure, the majestic creature called Bali Tiger that was endemic to the island, was driven to extinction by poaching and habitat reduction in the year 1930. It is however unforgotten by the Balinese, while the skins and bones of the last of the kind sprawl lifelessly in museums around the world.

Squirrels and Monkeys spread their witty cheer amid the trees in their numbers while snakes such as King Cobra, Reticulated Python and Water Monitor along with spiders govern with fear. Bats remain well represented and are worshipped too, at Goa Lawah (Temple of the Bats) by the locals.

The waters of Bali also provide a home for many marine species like Hawksbill Turtle, Giant Manta Ray, Bumphead Parrot Fish, Hammerhead Shark, sea snakes and Dolphins.

The beauty of Bali can be explored while indulging in the opulence of the many hotels of the island. Out of these Uma belonging to the luxury hotel group of COMO Hotels and Resorts is highly recommendable, being an award winning hotel as well.