Nightlife in Makati Philippines

Friday nights are where you let loose from all the stress of the week and just have a little fun whether you are on holiday or not. If you are to spend those Friday nights with your friends in Makati, here are a few places you might find interesting.

Night at Makati | Image Credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/84143999@N00">Vanessa David</a> from Makati, Philippines, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Manila_by_night.jpg">Manila by night</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY 2.0</a> — Night at Makati | Image Credit: Vanessa David from Makati, Philippines, Manila by night, CC BY 2.0

A toast to sports

If you are the sports lover, hanging out on a Friday night with friends at Mulligan’s is the perfect place for you! The pub’s interior gives you the feel of the typical Irish gastropubs. The atmosphere here is quite lively as visitors gulp down their beers and cheer on their favourite teams. Enjoy Irish-American bites available on the menu.

Party hard at Black Market

If you are looking for a break from your calm and quiet atmosphere in your hotel in Makati, for instance, the likes of Berjaya Makati Hotel, head out to Black Market. Dance to the beats of the latest pop songs and a bit of base from the underground music as well. dance the night away, take a few minutes rest at the bar with unlimited drinks from 12 am to 3 am.

Dine fine at the Penthouse 8747

Even though it is Friday, you may not be up for a crazy night ahead. Well, then why not go out with your better half for an elegant dinner at the Penthouse 8747. The theme for the interior of this restaurant is from The Great Gatsby with a splendid view of Manila from the 22nd floor. Relish the fantastic cocktails and treat your tongue to a tasty dish with your partner.

Sway to the disco beat

If the current hits on the club playlist is not your cup of tea, simply walk into Strumms in Makati. There are several bands that will be performing with music from the 70s and 80s. It’s certain that your toes will not stop tapping and you will eventually end up on the dance floor bumping to the beats of the disco era.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

A visit to the Zoo in Dehiwala Colombo

The national zoological gardens of Sri Lanka is one most visited tourist destinations in Sri Lanka as it is home to some of the most fascinating creatures of the wild. Read on to know more about this wondrous place and the animals you could see here.

National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka | Image Credit: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/25902645@N08">Hafiz Issadeen</a> from Dharga Town, Sri Lanka, <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jaguar_full.jpg">Jaguar full</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode" rel="license">CC BY 2.0</a> — National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka | Image Credit: Hafiz Issadeen from Dharga Town, Sri Lanka, Jaguar full, CC BY 2.0

Overview

Founded in 1936 The National zoo of Sri Lanka is one of the oldest zoological gardens in Aisa. The Zoo has a substantial collection of animals that live worldwide with over 3000 animals and 350 species. The zoo has well-landscaped gardens and a dense tree coverage which in turn provides shady and serene pathways.

Animal Diversity

The Zoo is home to a collection of native and non-native wildlife that includes mammals, reptiles, birds and fish. They are placed in different kinds of habitats which comprises of an aquarium, a walk through aviary, a reptile house and a butterfly garden. After constant complaints from the visitors today the zoo is undergoing a major restoration project in order to make it more animal-friendly.

Attractions

The Zoo also hosts animal shows every day and will be an exciting experience especially for children if you take them with you. The shows include an elephant dance, Sea lion performance and a chimp show that features a chimpanzee named Sanju. The zoo management has planned to add more attractions to the zoo upon the completion of the restoration programme.

Getting there and accommodations

You can reach the zoo easily by a taxi and it will be even easier if you are stationed in a Colombo hotel nearby. Speaking of accommodations near the zoo the Berjaya Hotel Colombo is a good place to plan your stay after a tiring day of exploration.

Things to remember

After you enter the zoo there are certain things you should remember that is never trying feeding the animals which are strictly prohibited and you can be fined when caught and remember the zoo can be very crowded during weekends and on special holidays so the best time to visit the zoo is during weekdays. The walk around the zoo isn’t very exhausting; although it is best to avoid visiting the zoo during the afternoon if you do, bring a hat or an umbrella with you to protect yourself from the scorching tropical sun.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Sri Lankan Leopards – A mystique like no other!

Both trodden and untrodden paths of jungles in Sri Lanka hold an abundance of adventure and intrigue. After witnessing the elusive leopards, one’s appetite for adventure will certainly be satisfied.

Sri Lankan Leopard

Also known as Panthera pardus kotiya, the Sri Lankan Leopard is the biggest of the eight known world’s leopard species. These creatures usually come out at dusk and swagger through the jungle to catch their prey. That’s why this apex predator is called the “The Prince of Dusk”. In most of the countries leopards are nocturnal and quite difficult to spot but in Sri Lanka, it’s much easier due to the lack of any other predators’ presence.

Where to spot?

For those who wish to spot this terrifying creature, there will be no better place than the Yala National Park. It is home to more than 40 leopards and the park is recognized as having the world’s highest density of leopards. If you wish to receive the best of the Sri Lanka wild life tours, plan your journey with one the local tour operators such as Cinnamon Nature Trails, to experience magical encounters of these majestic predators.

Behavioral pattern

Young leopards are often not difficult to spot because they don’t try to hide like their adults. They automatically catch all the survival tricks as they grow up. All the female leopards are better hunters while male leopards are a bit lethargic when it comes to hunting a prey.

Leopard watching

Observing these wild creatures up close is an interesting activity adored by many tourists who visit Sri Lanka. Don’t get excited as you get closer to view a leopard on a tree or stalking its next prey!

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Sri Lanka Travel Guide Itinerary

The teardrop-shaped island that floats in the vast Indian Ocean is a haven of tropical bliss. The country owns a rich culture coming from the variety of ethnic groups that make up the population. Apart from the gorgeous beaches, there is much to see and do on this small island.

Sri Lankan Leopard – Yala National Park | Img by: Thimindu Goonatillake via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Explore the Kandyan Kingdom

This is the last of the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka and is the second biggest city on the island. One of the must visit in Kandy would be the Dalada Maligawa also called the Temple of the Tooth Relic which charms visitors with the essence of the Kandyan culture. What’s more, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens which is a great place for a chilled time out.

The Lion Rock

More commonly known as Sigiriya Rock, the humongous boulder is now a World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular sought-after places in Sri Lanka. Climbing up is quite a thrilling experience. A few dozen steps to the top, you will see the queer Sigiriya frescoes and the mirror wall. Once you reach the top you will have the most beautiful panoramic view of the area. Another rock you might like climbing is a short distance away from Sigiriya Rock and is called Pidurangala.

Nuwara Eliya

This is the city with the coolest climate in Sri Lanka, located in the hill country. The best way to get here is by train observing the scenic views that you pass by. There are tea factories situated in this area, therefore the surroundings are filled with neatly arranged terraces of tea. Here and there you may spot a few tea pluckers carrying big baskets on their backs.

Yala National Park

Find rich wildlife in Yala National Park. Monkeys, elephants and sloth bears are some of the animals that can be observed in this nature reserve. However, the magnificent leopard species that is indigenous to Sri Lanka is the most amazing of them all. It is one of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries in Sri Lanka. Hotels with good facilities, such as properties of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts are available for a very comfortable stay.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Here’s Why You Should Visit the Maldives

A vacation in the Maldives is a tempting offer no one wants to pass up. Read on to find out about the top 4 reasons why you should be planning a mini getaway to the archipelago now!

Marine life| Img by: Ahmed Abdul Rahman via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Fantastic Marine Life

The Maldives have long since been famed for its fantastic marine life. It’s home to numerous reefs filled with colourful corals and nudibranchs along with exotic fish such as lionfish and stingrays. It’s also THE place to go to if you wish to dive with whale sharks and stingrays!

Spectacular Sunsets

Whether it’s all by yourself, your family or significant other, catching a flaming tropical sunset while lounging on a sandbank is another reason to visit. Or why not go all out enjoy a delicious dinner out by the ocean during sunset at one of the many restaurants located on the islands?

Fresh Seafood

If you are an absolute fan of fresh seafood, then a visit to the Maldives is a must. Tease your taste buds with an extensive selection of dishes served by some exclusive underwater restaurants and some of the best Maldives resorts including the likes of Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives.

Bioluminescent Beaches

Treat yourself to a magical bioluminescent sight while visiting the islands of Vilamendhoo, Angaga, and Kurumathi. A natural phenomenon which occurs at night, phytoplankton which collides with the sand, water or even feet give off a bright neon blue light!

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Why Renting a Car is better than Traveling by Taxi

There’s a great deal of freedom when it comes to driving oneself. Not everyone might feel the same way, and sometimes having a vehicle with or without a driver, a good one at least, can make life much easier.

Look Cool and Professional

There’s definitely a sense of prestige about driving around, and it’ll definitely add a bit of status to your entrance. If you rent one that is chauffeur-driven, the cars are generally classier models as well, from brands such as Mercedes Benz or BMW.

Time

Anyone who drives would be intimately acquainted with the hassle that involves procuring a parking space. If you’re late for a meeting or date, finding a parking space would add an extra 10-15 minutes. But, driving yourself also means you can leave earlier, and not wait for the taxi to find the way to your pick-up location.

Convenience

If you’re going on a trip to say, Sri Lanka, there are many services where you can take care of car rental. Sri Lanka is a place with some serious traffic, which is more reason to utilise an entity like Casons Rent a Car Sri Lanka.

Local Knowledge

Probably the best advantage of having a driver or driving yourself around is the fact that you will get to know the entire area and would easily take navigate yourself anywhere you’d be interested in visiting. Having a car and GPS means that your chances of getting lost and losing precious time are minimal.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Adventures in Praslin

Praslin is one most beautiful island in Seychelles that features pristine white sand beaches and crystal blue waters. Apart from indulging in its natural splendour, the island of Praslin also offers its guests a myriad of fun activities to engage in. Read on to know more about this wondrous island and the things you can do here

Aerial View from Praslin, Image by Marco Verch via Flickr (CC By 2.0)

The Island

Being the second largest island in the archipelago of Seychelles, Praslin is located 44 kilometres northeast of Mahe. The island has a lot of tempting destinations; serene and calm beach resorts, and so much more.

Snorkelling and diving

The oceans surrounding the island of Praslin is crystal clear and very clean and it is also home to a number of reefs that accommodate a diverse range of sea life which makes it ideal for snorkelling. There are also many dive spots scattered in the ocean surrounding Praslin where you can see and swim along with turtles, reef fish and even dolphins

Surfing

Anse Lazio beach of Praslin is very famous among surfers and the waves here are ideal for amateur surfers who are trying to improve their surfing skills.

Exploring the wilderness

The islands of Praslin is home to a small rainforest that has small waterfalls and scenic places that a worth a visit you can also see some of the rarest birds and small animals here.

Other activities and accommodations

Game fishing, boat riding, island skipping are some of the other things you can do during your stay at this paradise island. Apart from all the adventures, this is a place to forget all your problems and to unwind and relax. You can find a number of accommodations across the island which offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere to indulge in. The Berjaya Praslin Resort, for example, is a good accommodation option and a renowned Seychelles resort.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Taking a Stroll Down Lee Tung Avenue

Lee Tung Avenue is one of the most famous streets in Hong Kong and is now famed throughout the world as a centre for luxury shopping and housing. Its transformation, however, was quite controversial.

Lee Tung Avenue | Image Credit - Wing1990hk, CC BY 3.0 Via Wikimedia Commons — Lee Tung Avenue | Image Credit – Wing1990hk, CC BY 3.0 Via Wikimedia Commons

Background

The street was initially famous for housing a wide selection of printing presses. At one point the Hong Kong Times as well as Ta Kung Pao, the oldest active Chinese newspaper, were headquartered here.

Transformation

As part of a project by the Urban Renewal Authority of Hong Kong, there was radical construction to transform the street into what it is today. This resulted in a multitude of evictions and to this day many of the tenants have not been resettled, although they were compensated greatly.

I Like You

One of the most interesting incidents involving this road was its name change to ‘Avenue Walk’, with the Chinese name being ‘I Like You’. This caused a massive spectacle and uproar, with one shop owner naming their store ‘Avenue Lane Lou Mei’, which translates to ‘I Like Yo Momma’.

Lee Tung Avenue

Eventually, the original name of the street was reinstated. The street showcases a beautiful ambience that retains a very Chinese feel. If you find yourself at a nearby Wan Chai hotel the likes of Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong, then a walk through this lane is essential!

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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What to do in Hong Kong in 24 Hours

Hong Kong is a truly cosmopolitan city with a wide variety of things to do that are varied as much as they are numerous. Here are four experiences you shouldn’t miss out on.

Ride a Ding Ding

The Hong Kong trams are a fun and cost-efficient way to navigate the metropolitan sprawl, and they are referred to as ‘ding dings’ due to the bells which are utilised in place of car horns.

Tim Ho Wan

Who would want to miss a chance to dine in one of the cheaped Michelin-starred eateries in the world? At Tim Ho Wan you can gorge on expertly prepared dim sum, such as their world-famous pork baked-bun.

Wong Tai Sin Temple

This temple is legendary for the number of prayers that get answered. If you find yourself staying at a family room hotel in Hong Kong the likes of Dorsett Wanchai Hong Kong, with your loved ones and wish to try your luck, then you should definitely pay a visit to the temple.

Go for a Hike

Despite Hong Kong being a world-famous metropolis, there’s no shortage of hiking trails to be found here. Through embarking on a hiking adventure you can burn a load of calories and also experience some of the most astonishing sights the city has to offer.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.

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Best things to do in Kataragama, Sri Lanka

From historical sites, cultural attractions and an interesting local community, Kataragama contains quite a few things for visitors to experience and take in.

Visit Kataragama Temple

Image Credit-anonymous, Kiri Vehera, CC BY-SA 3.0

Visiting Kataragama Temple is a must when visiting the town. The temple is dedicated to the Kataragama deity, whom all Sri Lankans of different religions seeks blessings from. For those who wish to make a stay out of the trip, accommodation in Kataragama can be easily found at hotels such as Mandara Rosen Kataragama.

Wildlife Safari in Yala National Park

Located just 25 kilometres from Kataragama lies the famous Yala National Park, where nature lovers can embark upon an exciting wildlife safari and possibly catch a glimpse of the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard.

Sample Buffalo Curd

Head over to the picturesque town of Tissamaharama and sample Buffalo Curd. A cooling and nutritious delicacy which is a staple dessert served on the island accompanied by either Bee’s Honey or Jaggery.

Watch the Kataragama Festival

Timing your visit to coincide with the Kataragama Festival, which commences 10 days prior to the full moon which falls on the month of July, will be a good idea as visitors can watch a colourful and fascinating parade complete with dances. acrobatics and a procession of elephants.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+