Miscellaneous Adventures | The Adventure Travel Site

Must-Visit Amusement and Theme Parks in Gold Coast – Having Fun Under the Sun

The Gold Coast is one of the best locations to visit in Australia. There’s plenty of excitement to be had here – most notably, at the amazing amusement and theme parks on offer here. So, if you’re looking to have some fun times on the Gold Coast, here’s a look at where you need to be heading.

Dreamworld

If you’re staying at a Coolangatta resort – say, for instance, the Oaks Gold Coast Calypso Plaza Suites – be sure to make a quick trip to Dreamworld. This theme park has got it all – thrilling rides, water sports, and even some exotic wildlife!

Holoverse

Holoverse is a great place to visit with the kids and to test out some truly state-of-the-art technology. Essentially, you can interact with realistic holograms and play a number of AR games at the world’s first holographic arcade.

Warner Bros Movie World

This is perhaps the biggest and most popular theme park in Australia! It’s also home to the tallest, longest and fastest rollercoasters in the country – so, strap into your ride and let the adrenaline flow.

IFLY

IFLY is an indoor skydiving arena that lets you experience the thrill of skydiving without actually plummeting to the ground from up high. There are plenty of experienced instructors employed here as well, so you can take it easy and enjoy yourself here, knowing that you’re Insafe hands.

Thai Phrases to Learn Before Your Visit

While those who do not speak Thai can fully enjoy a holiday in Thailand, it always helps to know some local phrases to use with the people you meet.

“Khap” and “Kha”

Before getting into phrases to use be it in Bangkok or at a hotel Khon Kaen has to offer, you need to differentiate between “Khap” and “Kha”. They are used at the end of sentences and denote a sign of respect; the main thing to keep in mind is that “Khap” is only used by male speakers and “Kha” only by females.

Typical Greeting

From meeting locals to interacting with staff at properties like Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, the greeting you should learn is “Sawasdee”, which is the equivalent of “hello”. As mentioned, depending on the gender, the ending will differ; males will say “Sawasdee Khap” and females, “Sawasdee Kha”.

General Phrases

Also learn phrases such as “Sabai Dee Mai?” which is like asking “how are you?”, “Khop Khun Khap / Kha” the equivalent of “thank you” and “Mai Pen Rai” when you need to say “you’re welcome”. This phrase can also come in handy; say “Haawng Naam Yuu Tee Nai?” when you need to find the bathroom!

Other Phrases

Here are some other phrases that can be useful on your travels in Thailand; keep in mind, a big part of conversing here is to be polite and non-confrontational too.

• Ni Tao Rai? – How much is this?
• Paeng – Too costly
• Mai Khao Jai – I don’t understand
• Aroy – Delicious
• Kor Tot – Excuse me

Discover the Baa Atoll’s Marine Treasures

A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the Baa Atoll in Maldives gives you a chance to encounter some truly spectacular coral and marine life. Here’s a peek into what to expect.

Mantas & Whale Sharks
One of the best things you can do here is to go snorkelling in Hanifaru Bay and swim amongst huge manta rays and even whale sharks! The perfect complement to a stay at luxury villas in Maldives resorts, this activity is seasonal and best experienced from June to October when the plankton concentration is more.

The Blue Hole
Amongst the Baa Atoll’s most enthralling sites is the Blue Hole; part of the house reef at Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences, this unique attraction features a mysterious-looking hole formed by an underwater chimney of sorts lined with corals; an ideal spot for diving or snorkelling, you can see diverse marine life from triggerfish to hawksbill turtles.

More Adventures
Resorts in Maldives that offer snorkelling safaris to explore the Baa Atoll provide plenty of marine encounters including tropical reef fish, Napoleon wrasse, reef sharks, moray eels, green turtles and more. Diving is also popular since there are over 40 sites to explore, while you can go on dolphin spotting cruises too.

Night Expeditions
Depending on the resort, you may also have the chance to go on night snorkelling or diving excursions; it’s not every day you can include that in your list of nightlife activities! Apart from seeing nocturnal marine life, by way of special filters and blue light you can also witness bioluminescent lifeforms and plankton too.

Best things to do in Cuba Street in the heart of Wellington

Cuba Street is known to be a lively place always bustling with people going to restaurants, shopping and simply hanging around with friends or family. you can think of the place as a massive mall stretching from Webb Street to Wakefield.

People watch

So, what’s so interesting about watching the people here? In Wellington, you are allowed to be whatever you want to be and that’s why you’ll find people of diverse character here. The locals themselves are fascinating as you will find groups of dancers, painters and even tattoo artists at this place.

The gastronomy

If you are a foodie looking for the best experience, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll find cuisines from all parts of the globe here and some fusion dishes as well for an exciting twist to your food.

Nightlife

Since the place is quite close to Wellington hotels it is an easy option if you want to explore some nightlife. There are several bars and restaurants in the area serving some of the best ale and wines.

Shopping

There are a few quirky shops if you would like to do some shopping. Hotels like Oaks Wellington Hotel often recommend this spot for the best brands and an overall good shopping experience.

The Phra Nang Princess Cave in Krabi

Many travellers simply visit the Phra Nang Beach to soak up the stunning Krabi scenery; however, some locals visit with the intention of making offerings to Phra Nang herself. Located close to many a hotel Ao Nang Krabi has to offer such as Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, this cave is a must-visit attraction in the region.

History

The legend states that Phra Nang was a princess that was killed during a shipwreck. Another story states that she was the wife of a fisherman who got stranded on this island and whiled her time away awaiting her husband’s return.

Getting There

From Ao Nang Beach, you can board a longtail boat that will directly take you to Phra Nang Beach. It would cost around 200 Baht per person to complete the trip. A long-tail boat would usually wait until there are at least 8 passengers before departing to Phra Nang Beach.

Mark Fischer, Phra Nang Beach, CC BY-SA 2.0

Offerings to Phra Nang

Nowadays, one can witness the local fishers making offerings such as flowers and incense asking for safe travel on the sea.

Cave of Fertility

Over the years, Phra Nang Princess Cave became associated with fertility and virility. Locals place wood carvings of phallic symbols that can be seen at the entrance of the cave.

Amazing Attractions to Discover in Yala for an Unforgettable Vacation

From wildlife safaris to exploring exquisite cultural sites, Yala is an ideal place to spend your summer vacation. You will find many properties in and around this spellbinding city such as Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Adbar, Tourism Yala National Park, CC BY-SA 3.0

Yala National Park
No trip to Yala is complete without visiting its amazing national park – one of the most visited of its kind in Sri Lanka. It is home to a beautiful forest that provides lifeblood to many exotic animals. Animal lovers can even expect to spot the elusive leopard here during a safari arranged by their Yala hotel.

Magul Maha Viharaya
Hiding historical value in its ancient constructions, Magul Maha Viharaya is yet another attraction that can be visited during your trip to Yala. According to chronicles, Vijayabahu the Great has used this temple complex during the battle to unite the country.

Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya
A temple complex that’s believed to be built by King Kawanthissa during the 2nd century B. C., Sithulpawwa Raja Maha Viharaya can easily be accessed from many Yala hotels. The main stupa can be found overlooking a large pond from a large mountainous area.

Yala Leopard Centre
Couldn’t spot a leopard during your safari? Fret not – you can visit this incredibly informative centre that offers marvellous insights into the lives of leopards.

Wellington Travel Guide

Wellington is one of the most popular regions you can visit in New Zealand. From scenic views to fantastic attractions, there’s a lot to see and experience here. So, here’s a quick travel guide you can go through, if you’re planning a visit here soon.

When to Visit

So, to start off with, when exactly should you visit Wellington? The winter months that last from June to August are ideal if you want to avoid crowds but be weary of constant rainfall and strong winds. The summer season will bring tourists with them but pleasant weather as well. So, the choice is up to you.

Where to Stay

There’s a wide selection of accommodation options here in Wellington, ones that are suited for varying budgets. You can pick out a budget-friendly boutique hotel or opt for one of the best hotels in Wellington such as the Oaks Wellington Hotel.

The Attractions

Wellington Zoo Image by Spawn Man via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The list of attractions you can visit in Wellington is virtually endless. Some highlights include the Wellington Zoo, the National Archives and Weta Workshop. You can always consult your accommodation provider for recommendations on where to go.

A Few Tips

You should consider visiting the free museums of Wellington, these are great to tour through and cost you nothing. When it comes to dining, visit Chinatown for the best flavours and unmatched prices.

Guide to planning a winter weekend in Port Stephens

If you think it’s just the summers that are amazing in Port Stephens, you are probably wrong. It’s also a great winter escape with its many beaches and hills.

Staying in Port Stephens

Image by ZebethBrowse via Pixabay

Thinking about options for Port Stephens accommodation? As long as there are properties the likes of Oaks Port Stephens Pacific Blue Resort, you don’t need to worry about it. They will offer you every luxury and comfort.

Explore the Tomaree Mountain

Get ready to explore one of the best lookouts in New South Wales- Tomaree Mountain. For the complete hike, it won’t take even 2 hours, but the views from the summit are totally worth it

Explore the beaches

Zenith Beach is not the only beach to head to during your winter getaway. Don’t forget about the Anna bay, One Mile Beach, and Fingal Bay Beach that is also can also be visited to bring you warmth, joy, and relief.

Head to Gan Gan Hill

For someone who loves views, the Tomaree Mountain is not the only option. Hike to the Gan Gan lookout without much effort and enjoy all the views of the Port Stephens, Hawks Nest, and many more.

Mekong River Cruise experience

In the earlier days, civilisations were born around massive rivers, which also assisted in establishing relevant cultures. Mekong River is no exception. One can learn about the fascinating cultural aspects of an ancient civilisation when embarking on a luxury Mekong River cruise.

History of Mekong River

The earliest settlement date back to 2100 BC, the Khmer culture of Funan. Khmer empire Angkor was the last greatest Indianised state in the area. Mekong River is regarded as the cornerstone of the economic growth and prosperity of South East Asia.

Cruising Area

The spectacular Mekong Delta is spread over an area of approximately 15,000 square miles, which boasts of lush green paddy fields, fruit orchards, fish farms, and thriving ecosystems. Mekong Delta contributes to more than half of Vietnam’s rice production; hence, it’s also called the “rice bowl” of the country.

Cruising Experience

A Mekong River cruise would let travellers come across new cultures, thus being able to perceive life from a different perspective. From ancient temples and serene villages to incredible scenery and wildlife along the way, a cruise along this mighty river will offer an unparalleled experience.

Overnight Mekong Cruises

One can embark on a unique and scintillating night-time adventure on the Mekong River with cruise companies such as Mekong Kingdoms. A night-time cruise along this river would reveal a land of spellbinding beauty.

Best Beaches in West Coast of Sri Lanka

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean sure has some amazing beaches that lure tourists every year. The coastal belt of Sri Lanka is something that you must explore. Here are a few beaches that are not too far from Colombo for starters.

Negombo
This is a coastal city that is just 37 km away from Colombo which is about 1.5 hours travel time on the highway. Negombo is popular for beautiful beaches that are surfer friendly and safe for almost any water sport.

Mount Lavinia
This is one of the most residential zones in Colombo, especially for the middle class. This place has one of the most scenic beaches where the middle class often visit in the evenings for a jog or to walk their pets.

Beruwela
This is a beach city that is popular for hotels.Beruwela offers some of the best luxury resorts such as The Eden Resort & Spa for a nice stay. The beaches here are great too but the waters can sometimes be too rough so look out for the red flag.

Induruwa
Unlike the rest of the beaches, this isn’t a crowded one. Instead, the ambience is of that of a calm village where you can just relax.