Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Wildlife in Kenya, an experience like no other

Kenya has earned a firm reputation as one of the world’s richest wildlife habitats, possessing many magnificent and appealing animal species. Thousands of tourists from across the globe converge on this African nation to view its captivating wildlife.

The largest creatures in Kenya are as one might expect the big herbivores. Of these, the mighty African elephant takes pride of place, and they are easily spotted in the country’s numerous game reserves. In fact elephants are found in several varied habitats within Kenya. Visitors will be thrilled by the sight of the powerful rhinoceros, which is now endangered and therefore some of the remaining specimens are being relocated to safe areas. However numerous rhinos remain on the Kenyan plains, notably at Nairobi National Park. The giraffe is another essential sight, as they graze on the tender acacia leaves.

The Cape buffalo, powerful and unpredictable, is another magnificent sight. Visitors should also take the opportunity to view the massive and ungainly hippopotamus, as it lounges in the basins and swamps. Other significant herbivores include the unmistakable eland, the largest of the antelopes and the wildebeest, in addition to a host of smaller plant eaters.

Naturally the aggressive predators feature prominently in the sights to be seen in the Kenyan game reserves. The big cats, notably the lions and leopards will be a memorable sight, particularly as they engage in their hunting. The sight of a sprinting cheetah is a spectacle that will truly never be forgotten. Hyenas, wild dogs, servals and jackals are other interesting features on the Kenyan plains. Not to be missed are the huge African crocodiles which may be seen basking in the streams and rivers.

Kenya also boasts a wide variety of bird species, including the unmistakable ostrich. Other fascinating varieties include the beautiful albatrosses and an array of other avian species such as grebes, petrels, pelicans, shearwaters, gannets, boobies, cormorants, darters, egrets, herons, storks and flamingos amongst many others. Kenya is truly a birdwatcher’s paradise.

If you are interested in travel to Kenya from Sri Lanka then experienced Sri Lanka travel agents such as Mackinnons are the ideal choice to arrange your trip to make the most of your Kenyan experience.

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Wild Life Safaris

As you drive or trek into the many hectares of the national parks in Sri Lanka that are open to the public, you will discover just why the country is such a popular place to visit amongst nature enthusiasts. Yala, one of the country’s largest national parks is probably the most popular of them all. A river gurgles and twists itself before ending in the gorgeous blue ocean waves of the eastern sea of Sri Lanka. The pearly white sands are a perfect haven to curl up, lounge and drown in the rays of the sun. Within a natural enclave created by trees that kiss the sky are elephants, leopards, wild boar, sloth bears, herons and peacocks.

A safari in Sri Lanka often includes an overnight stay within the park territory, giving you the opportunity to observe the activities of nocturnal species and occasionally elephants can be heard trumpeting as they move around after dusk. Wilpattu, Singharaja, Bundala and Udawalawe or the Kithulgala rainforest which is located closer to the country’s capital city are all well loved destinations by nature lovers.

The Sinharaja rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is bound to create a memorable experience for those who like to trek into jungles. Sinharaja is home to many Sri Lankan endemic fauna and flora and has been the centre for many studies carried out by environmentalists. The location and landscape at Udawalawe make it one of the most appropriate places to see elephants up close and to feed the friendly deer.

Sri Lanka is synonymous with tea, gems, beautiful beaches, the hill country, hospitable people and not to forget wildlife safaris. During any season that you choose to travel to the tiny island nation, there is bound to be many venues to opt for. Sri Lanka tour packages will give you a basic guide as to whether the safaris along the eastern coast are better at a particular time or whether sticking to the mid country jungles is the best option. Regardless of the choice you make, all holiday packages Sri Lanka come wrapped in all its finery. For convenience, peace of mind and an unforgettable island experience, get in touch with Shanti Travel Sri Lanka as they have great deals and itineraries.

Rang Beach – Mui Ne – for Surfers

Mui Ne in Vietnam can be rated as the tourists’ hub in the country and a coastal town which brings much beauty to Vietnam. The Mui Ne beach or the Rang Beach is considered the best beach in Vietnam and is located in the province of Binh Thuan in South east of Vietnam. Since 1995 a revolution occurred in the tourism industry in Mui Ne after it became a most attracted resort destination. The beach of Mui Ne is a tropical shoreline bordered with crystal clear water and an immaculate stretch of sand which makes it every traveler’s yearning.

Many people visited Mui Ne to experience the solar eclipse which happened in October 24th 1995. This date made a huge change to the rather left out beach of Vietnam and now one of the most visited destinations in the world that boasts a breathtaking shoreline just for the tourists. Because of its strong sea breeze this beach has become even more popular among windsurfers and kite surfers. The ideal time for vacationers to visit Mui Ne is from December to May when the climate is hot and the winds suit perfectly to give you an exotic vacation in the beach. The temperature too would not be more or less than 27°C. The Mui ne coastal stretch is mostly crowded with many Russian travelers.

The many restaurants, cafes and bars built in the coast are very chic and will give you a fresh experience to remember Vietnam for your life. This spectacular beach will take you away from the busy and hectic cities of Vietnam opening up a much relaxed and soothing environment to make you cherish your holiday. A sightseer should not miss an opportunity of visiting this unspoiled seashore if you are in Vietnam. You could also get a glimpse of the small fishing village located towards the eastern border of the shoreline. Among the many luxury and lavishing resorts, the Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa is considered a high end resort in Mui Ne and certainly is a fantastic Vietnam hotel. If you choose to stay in this hotel, you will be promised of a cozy and opulent service.

Thirparappu falls

The Thirparappu falls is a lustrous beauty that is adorned by a scenic backdrop. It is a place for tranquility and a place away from the world. The rush of the roaring water combined with the sound of chirping birds gives one an almost immaculate taste of nature. Take a day out and bask in this ambience; a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

The Thirparappu falls is a highlighted attraction in the Kanyakumari District. In addition to its breathtaking scenic appeal it is a mighty work of God. Expanding over 300 feet the falls is without doubt nothing short of majestic. The entire bed above the 50 feet fall is a large rocky mass that stretches to a quarter of a kilometre. Further up you can also find the famous weir that has been built to enable water supply to the paddy fields nearby. The Thirparappu water fall with its beautiful cascading veil is only one of the many attractions in the area. On the left side of the waterfall you can find a sacred temple dedicated to the mightiest of all Hindu deities; Lord Siva, surrounding the temple is a strong fortification that makes an attraction in itself. The temple is known as the Mahadevar kovil and is one of the 12 sivalayas. It is historical and was built in the 9th century AD. The rich legends surrounding the temple and the intricate Kerala architecture makes this a popular temple in the whole district. Thirparappus popularity has lead to recent developments of the surrounding area. The District administration has constructed a large swimming pool which is actually a God send when you travel with children.

Kerala has often been recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of India. It has plenty of heavenly sceneries that are sure to take your breath away. When visiting Kerala try staying at the beautiful Poovar Island Resort. This gorgeous Beach Hotel Kerala has combines the scenic beauty of the sea side city with an impeccable luxury. The cuisines, comfort and the efficient services are all the reasons that make this place the finest Kerala resort.

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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Discovering the Fascinating Array of Plants and Animals of the Caribbean

While the Caribbean may be known for its stunning beaches, its islands and the surrounding waters are also home to rich flora and fauna. One of the best ways to experience this natural treasure is by staying at luxury resorts in the Caribbean such as Parrot Cay Turks & Caicos which also give you the chance to enjoy the very best the region has to offer. Amongst the leading Turks and Caicos luxury resorts, it makes an ideal base from which to set out on your excursions to the islands. Named as a biodiversity hotspot by Conservation International, the Caribbean islands have diverse ecosystems both blow and above the water. Costus speciosus which is a type of marsh plant, calabash fruit and bromeliads that can be found in Dominica’s rainforest are a few of the many plant species here. On your travels around the islands you will also come across such wildlife species as iguanas, crabs, tropical geckos and not forgetting the endangered leatherback, loggerhead, hawksbill and green turtles.

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Palm Sugar Village

Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia, sharing borders with Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. The country is known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine and terrific attractions. Different parts of the country are famous for different things. Tourists who want to enjoy the best beaches Thailand has to offer can head over to Phuket or Krabi; those who want to enjoy the nation’s rich history can visit Ayutthaya or Kanchanaburi; as for those who want to enjoy Thailand’s divine shopping opportunities, excellent restaurants and vibrant nightlife, the best place to go is Bangkok.

Not only is Bangkok Thailand’s capital, it is also its biggest city. Although it is known for its traffic clogged streets and a profusion of nightclubs, Bangkok actually has a lot more to offer. Famous tourist attractions in Bangkok include the Wat Arun, the Wat Pho- which is home to the world’s largest statue of a reclining Buddha, the Grand Palace- where one can see the famous Emerald Buddha, the Wat Ratchanaddaram, and the Dusit Palace- built by King Rama V.

The Palm Sugar Village is technically not a Bangkok tourist attraction as it is located outside the city. However, tourists who have visited all the sights within the city that interests them should consider taking a short day trip to the Palm Sugar Village. As the village is located on the way to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, one can visit both places at once. At the village tourists can see how sugar is made from the buds of coconut flowers and even take part themselves. It is a fun and interesting experience and should not be missed when visiting the city.

Bangkok’s traffic blocked streets are notorious and the best way to avoid them is by using the Metro or the BTS Skytrain. Together they greatly ease the hassles of travelling in the city. Tourists should also try to get accommodation in a central area so that navigation is not too much of a difficulty. The Metropolitan Bangkok is a luxury Bangkok hotel that enjoys a convenient location and is a great place to stay at. This Bangkok luxury hotel is found next to the city’s most popular leisure and shopping centres and offers a tranquil refuge from the bustling city.

Visit the Ampawa Floating Market for Retail Therapy, Leisure and Cultural Insight

Traditionally, the Thai mode of trading was dominated by many innovative methods, trade by way of floating markets which utilized the multitude of waterways in the city, were simply one of them. In modern day Thailand, these floating markets still exist, albeit less exorbitant and diverse, and at most, preserved as a tourist attraction. Nevertheless, taking a ride in a long tail boat and visiting these floating markets are truly an experience in itself for they still are unique in nature and the endless string of commentary on the history of the area and the ways of life of the people by the boat’s captain truly contribute to a wholesome experience.
The Ampawa Floating Market too is one such market which is unique in itself. It is more active and livelier than most other markets and one can find vendors selling a myriad of goods ranging from edible delights to souvenirs. One thing that is notable is that most of the houses along the canal are also makeshift shops and restaurants and edible homemade pastries and other goodies can be found in abundance.
This floating market belongs to the increasingly rare category of attractions which double as both an active market as well as a tourist attraction. Due to the double role played by the houses that are found alongside the canal, one can even see traditionally attired farmers selling their wares as well. Therefore, a ride to this Market is never wasted for even if you do not buy items, which is a rare occurrence in itself, you can still observe the simple way of life of the Thai people: an experience you may miss if you spend the entire vacation solely inside a luxury Bangkok hotel.
The Ampawa Floating Market is an afternoon market that begins at noon. Thus if you are staying in a Bangkok luxury hotel during your vacation, you are able to visit multiple floating markets in a given day. Most people opt to visit this market during the afternoon and take a ride through the famed Damnoen Saduak afterwards. After an immensely exciting day, no doubt complete with retail therapy, return to the luxury and comfort of a hotel such as the Metropolitan Bangkok and wrap up a perfect day with a delectable meal at their award winning restaurant.

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Explore Paradise Found on Engaging Samui Island Tours

Abound with a million possibilities vacationers will have more than their fair share to write home about when exploring the holiday powerhouse that is Koh Samui. Renowned as one of Thailand’s most popular tourist havens the palm fringed environs of this idyllic piece of paradise guarantees holidaymakers in search of something more than a beach vacation an unforgettable cultural and retail experience as well. The myriad of excursions available to visitors are tailor made to fit every kind of traveller and interest with engage activities thrown in to the mix.

Shopaholics will find bargains galore on a shopping tour of Koh Samui as central Chaweng Beach is a veritable hotspot for shoppers during night time. Selling everything from beachwear to quirky local curios this bustling shopper’s hub packs in the best of Samui’s retail potential in to one thriving local market. Those in search of authentic Thai goods on the other hand can head to town where stunning Thai silks, grand teak furnishings, hand crafted art work and hand knitter cotton garbs are found. Jewellery and textiles are available at unbeatable prices while tourists scouring for souvenirs to take back home will also find plenty of options at every turn.

Culture buffs can take a tour of Samui’s captivating ancient religious edifices on a temple tour that explores the island’s cultural and spiritual identity. Some of the highlights include the Big Buddha Temple where guests can watch monks perform daily rituals and observances. The striking sculpture of Lord Buddha adorned with 18 arms at Wat Plai Laem is equally engaging as the towering statue lies at the heart of a lake. Fortunes are read out on fortune sticks as blessings are benevolently bestowed on all who engage in this interactive exploration of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage.

Golf fans can tee off with the best in the island at the Santiburi Country Club which boasts an 18 hole par 72 course with oceanic views in all directions. Island hoppers can also explore the landscapes of Samui on a 4 wheel drive across the rainforest and uncover wilder side of the island with its native animal populace and inland geographical treasures. Those who prefer a mountain bike over a Land Rover can take the sights in via mountain bike on scenic trails that take visitors to the heart of Samui and its natural wonders.

Travellers in search of a luxurious Chaweng hotel will find no finer alternative to the Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Koh Samui. Offering guests the best in contemporary comforts this breathtaking Koh Samui resort is ideally suited for both holidaymakers and corporate travellers.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Rivers in Thailand- Explore in a cruise!

Thailand is a country with an array of attractions and numerous things to do. When you are exploring this country, there are many ways of doing that. Cruising across some of the main rivers which flow across the country is one of the most exciting ways of experiencing the beauty of this country. Among many other Bangkok cruises, we can recommend you one of the most unforgettable moments in Bangkok with Anantara Cruises Thailand. This Bangkok cruise tour will take you to all the places that you would ever wish to visit when in Thailand. Chao Phraya, being the major river of Bangkok, has many tours across the river which give the tourists an extraordinary experience.

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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Thai Royal Guards Parade: A Stunning Display of Military Prowess

Established in 1859 by the then Crown Prince Chulalongkorn, the Thai Royal Guards have evolved throughout history and has served a multitude of purposes. Initially entrusted with simple duties such as scaring crows, the Royal Guards soon became a strong division of the Thai Armed Forces and is, at present, entrusted with the protection of the Thai Royal Family.

In keeping with the special position the Royal Guards occupied within the Armed Forces, in 1953, they received colours from the then reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, one of the highest accolades that the King, as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, may bestow. Since then, this event has been ingrained into the colourful history of Thailand as the Royal Guards of the Armed Forces participate in a massive parade displaying military prowess in celebration of the birthday of the King of Thailand and humbly pledge their loyalty to the reigning King.

What began as a minor activity in the mid 20th century has now blossomed into a massive display of the capabilities of the Thai Royal Army and is attended by the Army, the Navy, the Thai Marine Corps as well as the Thai Air Force. The event is broadcasted live throughout the nation and is attended by thousands of citizens who flock to the Royal Plaza in Bangkok to witness this great display of might. Though the colours ceremony aspect which was initially the focal point of the 1953 parade is no longer a part of the national celebration, other elements such as a 21 Gun Salute and ceremonial march pasts are still retained in this fifty year long tradition.

If one is in the country during December, making a visit to witness this parade is a worthwhile endeavour. It is usually conducted in front of the Dusit Palace at the Royal Plaza in the capital of Thailand, Bangkok. Whether the excursion to modern day Siam is for business of pleasure, opting to stay at a serviced apartment Bangkok is a sensible option in terms of accommodation. One such award winning option would be the Anantara Baan Rajprasong Bangkok which affords all the modern comforts you deserve. Overall, its location further affords an exclusivity that is enjoyed by only the very best of Bangkok serviced apartments.