Backpacking Adelaide Travel Guide

Backpacking is a fun and exciting thing to do, especially as you learn a lot of skills and knowledge as time goes by. Here are some tips when you backpack in Adelaide!

Cost

Adelaide is known to be one of the easily affordable cities in Australia so you won’t have to fret too much! For the first few days, those who are looking for the best hotel in Adelaide can consider staying at places such as Avani Adelaide Residences before you start on your adventures.

Image Credit: Avani Adelaide Residences

Cooking

Once you get started on your backpacking, the best way to save money is to buy your own groceries and cook at home. You can even improve your cooking skills as you do this!

Bargain shopping

In need of something? Then you can always go bargain shopping. There’s always a sale in Adelaide, so you’re in luck.

Travellers travel photobook from Melbourne, Australia, Australia, Adelaide – SA (28182515789)CC BY 2.0

Free things to do

There are plenty of fun and free things to do in Adelaide. Do your research first so that you can experience these and save some money.

 

A Visit to the Hua Hin Train Station

In today’s world where train stations are mostly modernised, it’s great to find those that are full of old world charm; such an experience awaits at the Hua Hin Train Station!

Where It’s Located

This train station can be found in the seaside resort of Hua Hin, a popular coastal getaway. Within a 20-minute drive from Avani+ Hua Hin Resort, the station is easy to reach from the town centre and can be found along Damnernkasem Road. You can even opt to take the train here from Bangkok!

Thaweesak Churasri, สถานีรถไฟหัวหิน Hua Hin Railway Station – panoramioCC BY 3.0

Helping the Town Grow

Dating back to the 1920s, the Hua Hin Train Station provided a valuable transport link at a time road access was not available. With the completion of the station, the town soon became a tourist hotspot; it’s little wonder when it comes to a resort or hotel, Hua Hin has such a range of options!

An Instagram Highlight

With a blend of Thai and Victorian design influences, the Hua Hin Train Station with its red and whitish exteriors is bound to get plenty of likes on your Insta page! The carved pillars of wood and fascinating roof are amongst the elements that have made it such a photographed site on a tour of the town.

The Royal Waiting Room

Also found here is the Phra Mongkut Klao Pavilion which served as a waiting room for when royalty used the station. Apart from this site, the station has an old steam train and two rail cars with a library that one can check out.

 

Top Things to Do in Maldives

Island escapes, a world of wonder above and below the water, sublime relaxation; there’s never a dull moment in the Maldives with plenty to see, do and experience.

Water Sports

The ocean which surrounds the Maldives offers water sports enthusiasts lots to look forward to. Those staying at resorts the likes of Hard Rock Hotel Maldives can enjoy snorkelling, diving, wakeboarding, jet-skiing, parasailing, kitesurfing, kayaking, banana boat rides and SEABOB experiences to name but a few!

Image Credit: Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

 

Enjoy Entertainment

Of course, when on holiday, enjoying some entertainment is as good a “thing to do” as any! In the Maldives, celebrations can be experienced at various resorts or inhabited islands. For something different, travellers can look to visit venues such as The Marina @ CROSSROADS which features band performances, special events and live music.

Indulge in Spa Rituals

Resort spas provide holistic healing that will certainly help you unwind and feel revitalised. From traditional Asian therapies with herbs and oils to innovative western treatments featuring sound vibrations, an enriching wellness journey awaits!

Photo by Nicole De Khors from Burst

Embark on Ocean Voyages

There is much to discover on voyages out to sea be it on a luxury yacht, modern boat or traditional vessel known as a dhoni. Sunset cruises are popular for couples, while dolphin watching excursions and visits to inhabited as well as uninhabited islands provide many adventures too.

 

Abu Dhabi Travel Guide

Planning visiting Abu Dhabi? You’re sure to feel like you’ve made a great choice from the moment you step into the city! Here’s a little more information.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Also known as The Grand Mosque, this is Abu Dhabi’s most famous attraction and is quite the masterpiece. You’re sure to be left awe-struck with its architecture, such as the 82 intricately detailed domes and reflective pools. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is believed t be the most beautiful mosque’s in the world.

FritzDaCatFront of Sheikh Zayed MosqueCC BY-SA 3.0

 

Desert Safari

Let’s be real, no trip to the middle east is complete without experiencing a desert safari! Depending on when you’re in the mood, you can do either opt for a morning or evening desert safari depending on how you feel. You can request the resort in Abu Dhabi you’re staying in, the likes of Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort to recommend the best times.

Seko Naotomo, Desert Safari – panoramioCC BY 3.0

Louvre Abu Dhabi

It doesn’t matter if you’re not into museums as the Louvre is truly an iconic structure that will leave you speechless! The collections housed inside are quite impressive and include artefacts from civilizations from all over the world, in different timelines.

PaasikiviLouvre Abu Dhabi insideCC BY-SA 4.0

 

Reasons Why You Should Visit Sri Lanka

The tiny island nation is perfect with a tropical climate, incredible cuisines, sandy beaches and dramatic mountains. Here’s why you should be making a visit to the island sooner and not later.

 

Image by: eter van der Sluijs via wikimedia commons

1. Tropical Climate

The climate is warm and mild and balmy all year round and can get comfortably cold in the highlands. No matter where you are in Sri Lanka at whatever time, you will be comfortable.

2. Delicious Food

Sri Lankan cuisine is a delicious blend of spices and sweets that makes it a favourite among tourists. The distinct cuisine will be tasty no matter where you eat it; out at a street stand or in a luxurious hotel.

3. Rare Animals

The reason Sri Lanka wildlife tours are so sought after is due to the number of animals that you find on the island can’t be found elsewhere in the world. A prime example is the Sri Lankan leopard. Book a tour with a provider like Nature Odyssey.

4. Gorgeous Beaches

Sri Lanka has long been famous for pristine beaches. No matter where you are you will come across beautiful golden and white sands.

5. Whales & Dolphins

Most of Sri Lanka’s coastlines are prime sighting locations for blue whales, dolphins and other marine life.

 

Sepang International Circuit

If you are a motorsport enthusiast, you must be surely knowing about Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia because it is the home to Malaysian Formula 1. Because of its impressive grandstand, this circuit is so popular even among international visitors.

Where is it?

This complex is located at Sepang, very much close to the KL International Airport. If you are residing at Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, this international circuit is really close by you that it’ll really be in vain if you miss your visit.

CraigSepang international circuit qualifying1, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

Main events it hosts

As it was mentioned, this circuit is where the Formula 1 rules. In addition to that, there are also several other major events that it hosts such as the MotoGP, Sepang Drag Battle, and the Malaysian Super Series.

Other fun things to do here

Many Sepang hotel guests do visit the circuit even if there are no major events scheduled because there are still some other fun things to do. Go Karting is one such the best things to try out because you find the best Go Kart circuit in Malaysia here.

General guidelines

The National Automobile Museum is also inside this complex, so you can visit it too without any entry fee. If you opt for Go Karting, note that kids below 13 years old will not be allowed to try this out due to safety concerns.

 

Planning your Auckland Itinerary

Boasting some of the country’s best museums and cultural institutions, New Zealand’s most populous city is an ideal spot to visit. Here are a few top places you should consider visiting.

Cornwall Park

Less than 15 minutes from Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences and several of the other best hotels in Auckland, this sprawling park offers an abundance of greenery and an atmosphere of complete relaxation. The family friend atmosphere and amenities, such as picnic areas, jogging and bike paths, a playground and so much more make this park an all in one location, catering to everyone!

Noel JonesCornwall park 0631 (9798007543)CC BY-SA 2.0

Mount Eden

Mount Eden is a dormant volcano that is completely covered in grass, offering the best views of Downtown Auckland. Mount Eden is also the highest natural point in Auckland and the best time to visit would be either during sunrise or sunset.

Ingolfson at English Wikipedia
(Original text: Uploader.), Mount Eden Crater Hollow Auckland, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

Auckland Zoo

The Auckland zoo is a sprawling animal sanctuary, boasting a large number of exotic and native animals. Together with a number of people-friendly facilities, there is also plenty of roaming space for animals.

111 Emergency from New Zealand, Lioness at Auckland Zoo – Flickr – 111 EmergencyCC BY 2.0

 

Phosi Market

Brimming with life, the Phosi Market is a scene where vendors have their fresh produce and other goods on display on mats on the floor or on small tables to capture the eye of potential customers. Now…some items may look appealing and some not, but then it’s all about the experience here.

The biggest market

Phosi Market is the largest market in Luang Prabang with three-quarters of it always full. There are over a hundred sellers offering customers a wide choice of various items. How about a visit to experience what the place has to offer for yourself?

Food and spices

The local spices are readily available here and freshness is guaranteed. The air here might seem a bit heavy with smells of food and spices wafting through the air as there is very less space for air circulation.

Grocery items

There is a large variety of fresh vegetable to buy here. The butchery section of the market is no place for the faint of heart, still, one may find all sorts of meat here. Pig blood curd is one of the most unusual foods to find here.

Getting here

If you are lodged at a centrally located hotel in Luang Prabang, getting here would be easy via a taxi. For those who fancy a stroll, the market is a 22-minute walk from Avani+ Luang Prabang and other city hotels.

Mount Phou Si

Ever heard of the sacred mountain in Luang Prabang with a challenging flight of 300 stairs with a magnificent panoramic view as a reward? Yes, this article speaks of none other than Mount Phousi which is a must-see attraction here. Here are a few things to know if you plan on visiting the mountain.

Gerd Eichmann, Luang Prabang-Phou Si-06-gje, CC BY-SA 4.0

Entrance fees and timing

The entrance fee for the mountain is about 20,000 kip. The fare will be collected once you are halfway uphill. Also, the mountain is open for sightseeing from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm.

A Sacred Mountain

Mount Phousi translates to “sacred mountain” or “sacred hill”. It bears great significance to the Buddhists in the local area. On the stairways, flower vendors and bird vendors sit, selling. their blessing offerings to visitors. Remember to dress appropriately and respect the peaceful atmosphere here.

Wat Chom Si

This is a temple with a golden stupa on the top of the mountain which was built in 1804. With the temple is a grotto that shelters a big statue of Buddha which is worshipped by the locals with offerings and prayers.

Allie CaulfieldWat Chom Si stupa (2009a)CC BY 2.0

Best time to visit

Mount Phousi offers breath-taking views of both the sunrise and the sunset. However, if you want to avoid the mad rush of crowds, its better to be there before sunrise. This would be even more convenient if you are lodged at Avani+ Luang Prabang or another hotel in Luang Prabang a short distance away from the property.

Gerd EichmannLuang Prabang-Phou Si-14-Sonnenuntergang-gjeCC BY-SA 4.0

 

A 5 Day Itinerary to Busan

If you are planning to spend 5 days in Busan, then know you are in luck. Most people get only a couple of days and that is never enough for them to explore the second-largest city in South Korea. We have put together an itinerary so you can make the most of your 5 days and find all the places to visit in Busan.

Day 1

Visit Gamcheon culture village in the morning for a colourful walk and then take the afternoon for a bit more walking along the Busan coast. You can pick one of the three best stretches which are each about an hour’s drive from Avani Central Busan Hotel.

cezzie901, Gamcheon Culture Village View 5CC BY 2.0

Day 2

On the second day go out to explore Nampo-dong and Gwangbokdong food street where you can get a stool and sit down for some street food. After a good meal get lost in Gukje Market which is a gigantic market that you will find hard to navigate, so make sure you get your bearings before you plunge in.

Ryan Bodenstein, Gwangbok-dong Street in Busan 4CC BY 2.0

Day 3

Visit the picturesque Haedong Yonggungsa Temple early in the morning. It is the best time to explore the temple in the serenity of the sea at dawn. In the afternoon you can head to the beach.

midnight.hereHaedong Yonggungsa, BusanCC BY-SA 2.0

Day 4

Spend the 4th day relaxing with some time at a hot spring and reconnect with your soul.

Day 5

The last day is the best day to take a day trip from Busan to South Korea’s largest and most important temple; Tongdosa temple.