Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Bird Watching in the Maldives- Taking Wing

While the Maldives is celebrated for its amazing diversity of marine life, due to its location far away from a large landmass and its small size the Maldives does not have an abundance of its own avifauna. Most birds found on the islands are Eurasian migratory birds and therefore are seasonal while some are typical of the region and a few are found among the vegetation and marshes of the various islands.

According to bird checklists around 165 varieties of birds inhabit the islands from time to time. Some rare and threatened varieties of birds that visit the islands intermittently include the Feruginous Duck, Jouanin’s Petrel, Spot Billed Pelican, Pallid Harrier, Black Tailed Godwit, the Lesser Kestrel and the Eurasian Curlew. The common Mynah and the House Sparrow that are visible on the larger islands are listed as introduced species. Among the commonest birds spied in the Maldives are the crow, the koel with its distinctive cry and the white breasted water hen found nesting under low bushes. While the large grey heron is also a common sight several other species of heron are also glimpsed from time to time. Two types of frigate birds are known to use the Maldives as their breeding grounds. Two species of noddies, several species of terns, the Audubon’s shearwater and the white tailed tropic bird are also to be found here during breeding time. Addu Atoll in the south of the Maldives is known as a nesting ground for the fairy tern.

For keen bird watchers the best way to see pelagic birds in the Maldives is to take a trip out to sea with fishermen who locate shoals of tuna by identifying concentrations of sea birds feeding on shrimp and small fish chased to the top by the big fish hunting below. Birding tours organized as part of the live aboard experience is also another wonderful way to view tropical pelagic birds and migrants from the palaearctic eco zone. The most rewarding time to view these birds may be during the spring and autumn migrations when a whole variety of birds can be spotted. Early mornings are also a good time to view birds as they are most active and noisy at this time. Due to its small size bird watchers in the Maldives may need to visit several locations to see a variety of avifauna.

For anyone thinking of pristine white beaches, sun, warm blue sea, gorgeous marine life, privacy and sublime accommodation then Cocoa Island Maldives is the place to be. Enjoy well appointed spacious contemporary villas and suites with wonderful ocean views at this Maldives luxury hotel as well as tasteful Asian fusion cuisine, rejuvenating holistic spa treatments and blissful days in total relaxation. Head to this exceptional Maldives resort for that much dreamed of vacation.

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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Roppongi Hills

Development in Tokyo has moved forward in leaps and bounds, and today the capital city of Japan is definitely one of the greatest cities in the world. While life moves on the fast lane in this busy city the locals are always able to make time for style, and maintain it in their lifestyles. As the country heads towards becoming one recognized for this trait, the numbers that visit the nation in seek of exciting vacations too increases. Most of these visitors opt to stay in and explore Tokyo and in the city the Roppongi area is popular among visitors. Roppongi Hills is a mix use development that has arisen in the area and for many reasons it is a site fun seeking visitors should head to.

This development was opened in 2003, and since then has changed the face of Roppongi, helping to transform it into one of the most stylish areas to visit. Made up of several skilfully architected buildings, there is a host of ways to spend time in the area. It is a place to visit that will have almost anything that visitors are looking for. Those with an interest in modern culture will enjoy a visit to the Mori Art Museum in the iconic Mori Tower, and from this same tower which is one of the tallest in the area, you can enjoy the views from the observation deck.

Roppongi Hills is one of the best places for world class shopping, with most of the best renowned brands available here. Visitors will not only find trendy apparel here but a range of other products as well. When looking for a way to treat the taste buds too Roppongi Hills is the place to head over to, as there are a wide variety of restaurants, cafes and bars that serve up delicious dishes from many cuisines. The area is made pleasant by the presence of greenery in beautifully kept gardens, including an exciting rooftop garden. The cinema on site shows both Japanese and English movies for visitors’ enjoyment. It is definitely an ideal place to head over to when looking for some excitement in Tokyo.

When visitors to this city are selecting a hotel Tokyo, one that will meet all their needs is The Peninsula Tokyo. The beauty and opulence of this luxury hotel Tokyo, along with the lavish comforts and experiences available, have made it a popular choice of accommodation.

Shanghai Wild Animal Park

For a fierce adventure with the wild side of China visit the Shanghai Wild Animal Park. Located in the Sanzao town some 20 km from the city center, the park is easily accessible and makes a popularly visited destination during weekends and holidays. The Shanghai Wild Animal National Park makes the first park of its kind in the whole of China. It covers an area of over 150 hectares and houses over 200 different species of animals. The rare, the endangered and the fierce are all found in this manmade wildlife sanctuary and the best part of all is that this zoo allows an up-close and personal experience with its many amazing species. You can either walk along and enjoy a typical zoo exploration or you can hop into a bus and enjoy the most spine chilling contact with the animals.

The Zoo is divided into 5 major areas; the wild beast zone, herbivore zone, performing hall, penned animal zone and other animal zone. Each area is a world full of its very own surprises. In the performing hall you are greeted with a number of talented animals each exhibiting its very own artistic skill. These animals are renowned nationwide as some of the most talented set of zoo inhabitants ever. The real highlight of this zoo however is the wild animal zone. Quite interestingly the zoo feeds the lions and tigers with living prey in order to retain their original survival instincts. This in turn provides quite a show for visitors who enjoy the opportunity to see right before their eyes, the jungle king delving for his kill. With the supervision of a professional one can indulge in feeding elephants and giraffes and taking photographs with them.

The Shanghai zoo is haven for both adults and children. There is a Ferris wheel enabling you to enjoy a wholesome view of the zoo and electric cart to carry you along the trip in case you feel tired. If you are hungry there are lovely little restaurants and if you are in the mood for some souvenir shopping there are plenty of outlets for that too. All in all you can get a wholesome day out in this zoo in Shanghai.

The The Langham Xintiandi Shanghai has the most remarkable hotel rooms in Shanghai whose ambience makes this a popular choice of many people who are looking for a Shanghai luxury hotel.

Explore The Sigiriya Gardens- The ravishing beauty of one of the world’s oldest landscaped garden

continues to attract tourists with its rugged imposing exterior, the contrasting softness of surrounding greenery, the head turning beauty of its maidens and the galleries and murals that combine to give a sensational aesthetic experience.

The gardens of Sigiriya indeed are a fine tribute to the architects of the olden days. While the construction of the fortress itself on so high a rocky climb is indeed a matter of applause, the gardens constitute a more detailed insight into how far exactly the techniques of that era were developed. As one of the world’s oldest landscaped garden in the world, it is a scholar’s adventure trip and a photographer’s paradise. Even for the average tourist, the fine boundaries and neat contours of the ponds and pools and water drainage systems gives a sense of harmony without an oppressive feeling of being in a technical workshop. The serpentine waterways and reclining pools blend so well into the spacious of the garden as the unchartered winds ruffle through the plantation to roam in the green wilderness beyond and the birds that chirp among the clusters of bushes relieve the impeccable neatness with an unruly charm of their of their own.

The gardens indeed are three in type although they are clearly interlinked. While the water garden takes the centre of attention as the most intricately designed one, the other two, boulder garden as well as Terrace garden do not fall far behind. The largest garden is surrounded by water connected with causeways and is an island with a walled enclosure. In the fountain garden, marbled serpentine streams drain into the two large deep pools. The fountains in Sigiriya are indeed another cause for wonder as they operate even this day, and are fed by underground water channels and arise through the perforations in the limestone circular plates. The miniature water gardens adds to the picturesque beauty of the garden while the cooling palaces or water pavilions reminds a visitor of warm days spent here in reverie.

Sigiriya accommodation can be exotic as Sigiriya itself. Jetwing Vil Uyana takes you back in time to the olden days when Sigiriya was a kingdom and life in a village was simple and charming. The exotic clusters of villas appear like an ancient village with their coconut fringed roofs interconnected by foot paths and lanterns setting up their illuminations at night like scattered fire flies in the darkness. The villas are surrounded by lakes brimming with water lilies or marshy lands amongst where the lotuses bring out their fine petals or forrests that shrouds you in dark and unfathomable mysteriousness.

The wooden villas with their polished timber walls and floors with coconut shells on their tops appear rugged and primitive externally while their interior resemble a king’s abode. This famous Sigiriya hotel is more than a hotel. It offers a chance to live another life, in another day, with the primitive charms of an uncomplicated lifestyle closely mingling with nature while still enjoying the comforts of a modern hotel that you simply cannot do without.

Agroventures Adventure Park

Looking for an awesome, one of a kind adventure experience that will make your hair stand on end? Agroventures Adventure Park just outside Rotorua, New Zealand may just be able to satisfy this yearning! Billed as the country’s ‘most thrilling adventure playground’, five hair raising unique rides are guaranteed to give visitors the time of their lives.

Try the Swoop which raises riders 40 metres into the air and with the release of a rip cord plunges everyone down to earth at 130 mph. It is ideally tried with a small group of friends for the best effect. Screaming is very much in order!

The G force sensation of the Agrojet, a 450 HP Hamilton Jet Boat with a V-8 engine has been likened to the ride in a Formula I car at full throttle. Accelerating from 0 to 100 KPH in a trice while manoeuvring around seven islands on a specially designed water course and finishing the ride with a stomach churning 360 degree turn is an experience that is indescribable.

Freefall Xtreme is body flying where riders are borne on a high powered column of air and is the closest many will get to a zero gravity ride. Try twists, spins and rolls while air borne and feel like a super hero out to save the world!

Race against other riders and even set records in bullet shaped cycling pods suspended from a track, powered only by the rider’s legs. Race along at 45 mph on a 600 metre long, 7 metre high track. Named the Shweeb meaning suspend in German, the ride is the first of its kind in the world.

The park also features bungee jumping from a 43 metre tower. Every jumper bold enough to step into nothingness receives a congratulatory certificate.

Located in lovely Paradise Valley the park aims to provide easily accessible, unique and the most amazing adventure experiences in one location.

With a city centre location, virtually on the banks of Lake Rotorua, Millennium Hotel Rotorua not only offers an excellent location but also features all the modern conveniences required of an international hotel. Enjoy the many facilities and amenities at this Rotorua hotel from spacious, well appointed contemporary accommodation with lake or garden views, to food and beverage venues that serve fresh local and international fare. Leisure options range from relaxing spa therapies to heated pools, a sauna and a modern gym and up to date business and conference facilities. Stay in this prominent hotel in Rotorua to enjoy a many faceted city adventure.

Abu Dhabi International Jewellery and Watch Show

While Abu Dhabi has many tourist attractions, exhibitions and festivals seem to be among the main reasons for visiting Abu Dhabi. The International Jewellery and Watch Show held its 20th edition this year, from the 1st to 5th of May and it seems like the event is just continuing to be a massive crowd puller. While JWS will cater to your luxurious taste Abu Dhabi hotels will offer you the perfect indulgent accommodation. Luxury hotels Abu Dhabi are a class apart and blend middle-eastern mystery with modern pleasure, creating aesthetic marvels that delight all senses. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara situated in the Liwa Desert brings to life an Arabian fantasy with its unparalleled extravagances.

Organized by Reed Exhibition, the annual event takes place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The 21st edition will be open from the 14th to 18th of March 2013 and will have more than 140 participants.

Sparkly diamonds, hand crafted silver, breath taking beautiful watches, all symbolizing a certain class, speaking to buyers with a certain profile, will all be happening at JWS. This year the exhibition will host over 130 exhibitors not only from Abu Dhabi but also countries such as the UK, USA, Italy, Jordon, Malaysia, Brazil, India, Hong Kong, Japan, Jordan, Lebanon and many others, bringing the total number of participants to 16. Premium brands from the world over that will also be part of this spectacular event include Giovanni, Rolex, Parmigiani, Mercury, Tudor and Bugatti.

Along with JWS, a one of a kind luxury gift show will also take place. The gift show will have on display many innovative and exquisite personal objects, products for special occasions and homes as well as artefacts. This high-end product exhibition is the region’s first consumer show of this kind and caters to a very niche audience. Both local and foreign elite look forward to these exhibitions because of the opportunity it offers to buy unique products. Local and international jewellery exhibitors consider it an important event in their calendar as it brings large number of patrons to one place, giving a platform to establish long term relationships and also sell products.

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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Mount Kaukau

When staying at a hotel in Wellington, travellers can head out to explore various local attractions. Wellington New Zealand hotels such as Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay, provides easy access to various places of interest. While sightseeing in the region, a must visit site is Mount Kaukau. Located on the western side of the Wellington harbour, this mountain affords enchanting vistas of the city from its summit where the Kordia TV transmitter mast is also located. From the top you can take in beautiful views of the Tararua and Rimutaka Ranges as well as the harbour and the cityscape.

City Break in Chicago

Across America there is a varying culture seen in major cities, which differ both according to location as well as the lifestyles of the locals. Chicago is one such city with a particularly interesting culture that is based around knowledge, art and science. This has made the city the ideal vacation spot, frequented by families, young travelers and those with a love for learning new things and exploring the many sites it has to offer. When looking to spend a break in the city Chicago is the ideal place to head over to, as there are plenty of activities to keep anyone entertained. It is a place that can be enjoyed on any budget, and by those of all ages.

Museums and galleries are common sights in this city, some reputed to be among the best in all of America. At the Museum Campus visitors will find three prominent sites to check out – the Field Museum of Natural History, the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium and. The three museums on the campus are surrounded by scenic settings, and are ideal places to spend a day. For art enthusiasts there are interesting galleries to visit, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the National Museum of Mexican Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

There is more to do during city breaks in Chicago than visiting museums alone, and this includes places to enjoy exciting meals and a variety of entertainment. Enjoy local favorites such as hotdogs and pizzas at diners and restaurants that provide service with a smile. This city is well known for its cozy jazz clubs, and the list of places to check out is endless when looking for entertainment here. Performing arts are popular in the city, and visitors will often come across intriguing and absorbing performances.

There are stretches of beaches to spend time at and most visitors enjoy exploring the areas around Lake Michigan. There are charming parks to be visited, including some that operate ice skating rinks and accommodate various outdoor activities. When looking to enjoy a break as much as possible, Chicago is the ideal destination to head over to.

Make the most of a short break by spending it in a Chicago five star hotel such as The Peninsula Chicago. This Chicago luxury hotel is a popular choice amongst frequent visitors and it offers an ideal base from which to explore this fascinating city and its many attractions.

Jungle Trekking in Sri Lanka

Blessed with a diverse natural heritage, Sri Lanka features a variety of jungles that offer some truly unforgettable trekking excursions. Those looking to explore these areas and other natural sites while on a Sri Lanka travel adventure can make use of the trekking and hiking tours offered by Jetwing Travels. These exciting Sri Lanka tours take you to areas of stunning natural beauty seemingly lost in time. The mountainous central region is one of the best places for trekking and such sites as the Knuckles Mountain Range, Belihuloya and the Horton Plains National Park provides plenty of thrilling excursions. Not to be missed is a jungle trek through the Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in flora and fauna.

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 Fascinating Wildlife of Maldives

One of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, the Maldives also has rich natural beauty and is home to a variety of wildlife species both on land and in the water. Those planning to explore this natural heritage can base themselves at a Maldives resort such as Cocoa Island Maldives. This Maldives luxury hotel offers such activities as diving which lets you observe the underwater species that inhabit the waters around the islands. Nearly 2,000 fish species can be found in these waters including Parrot Fish, Butterfly Fish, Blue Lined Snapper, Angel Fish and not forgetting Manta Rays and Whale Sharks. Hawksbill, leatherback and green turtles can also be seen here. While the islands themselves have only a few species such as a variety of gecko and the flying fox, over 180 bird species have been identified and bird watching enthusiasts have a chance to see Rose-Ringed Parakeets, Grey Herons and Moorhens when on a visit.