Activities - The Adventure Travel Site

Hikkaduwa Coral Reef

The popular coastal town of Hikkaduwa with its endless sunny skies, white sands and surf has long been regarded as a back-backer’s haven for travellers heading down the coastline. One of its major attractions is the stunning coral reefs which helped promote the town as a top destination for snorkelling and scuba diving in Sri Lanka. Attractions aside, this really is a beautiful reef and unlike the other reefs found along the southern coastline, the coral reefs near Hikkaduwa are the most diverse and easily accessible.

Due to the wide range of bio-diversity among the reefs, it was declared a marine sanctuary in 1979 and later a Marine National Park. The main coral reefs can be found in calm, shallow waters near a lagoon, making it a perfect snorkelling excursion for anyone who wants to attempt it without any previous experience. The reef begins nearby to the fishing harbour and extends out about 4km south. Up to 60 species of coral has been recorded so far with over 170 species of marine life. Tropical fish like angel fish, butterfly fish, snappers, parrot fish and more can be seen frequently swimming among the corals whilst schools of trevally fish are typical found swimming in shallow lagoons along with a few turtles.
The best way to experience the reefs is to go with a guide who can take you to all the best spots along the corals and explain the differences between the vast formations of corals and marine life. If you’re staying at one of the hotels along the coastline like the Cantaloupe Hotels, the hotel will usually arrange a trusted guide to accompany you. For scuba divers, venture out beyond the shallow reef where several deeper reefs and rock formations can be found, teeming with marine life. There are even a few old shipwrecks that over the years have turned into artificial reefs, providing sanctuary for corals and reef fish. The best time to visit the Hikkaduwa coral reefs is between November and April when the seas are calmer and sunny skies are aplenty.

Hikkaduwa coral reef, Img Credit:[Sophie Thomas]

Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+

Try out an action packed Canopy Ride in Koh Samui

Canopy Adventures Secret Falls - Koh Samui — Canopy Adventures Secret Falls – Koh Samui | Image Credit

You may come to Koh Samui to experience the beach or relax with the attentive service of Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort or a similar luxury hotel. But a canopy ride through the lush forests of Koh Samui is worth taking a break from the sun and sands for!

Within easy reach of many Phangan resorts, canopy adventures at the Secret Falls of Koh Samui allows you to experience the forests in a completely new manner. If you are one for adventure and thrill, this is perfect for you. If you are not so much into adventure sports, this is picturesque enough that you can justify the presence of adventure. You will literally fly through the treetops of the forest, enjoying the greenery below, the blue skies above and the wind singing in your ears – all the while secure in the knowledge of a safety harness. You will also catch glimpses of the gorgeous coast line of Koh Samui, the famous sands and the beckoning waters. This is your opportunity to fly like the bird and truly see the holistic beauty of Koh Samui.

Half way through your canopy ride, you will arrive at a swimming hole – the famous Secret Falls – where you can relax, play in the waters and refresh for the next leg of your journey. Taking the curious visitors to the skies for a fun-filled ride since 2009, the canopy rides require no previous experience or special skill. An experienced guide will instruct you on what to do, and you can simply heed his/her words and enjoy the unspoilt wonders of the forest below. Maximum comfort is ensured on your ride, by having it proceed in four phases. Starting off with a gentle ride, each phase becomes gradually steeper and exhilarating, so that you are prepared to enjoy the ride as much as you would enjoy the lush picturesque world that you fly above.

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

What’s so good about Skydiving in Perth? For the Adrenaline Junkies

What is so good about sky-diving in Perth? Many travelers rave about sky-diving in this hot spot and the location garners hundreds of enthusiast from all over the world each year. Here’s why. Most of the veteran skydivers say that the best thing about the sport is that no matter when and where you do it, it alters your life drastically afterwards. It is supposed to give you an amazing amount of confidence in yourself that you could achieve the seemingly impossible. Sky-diving also embodies two of the great aspirations of the human race; flying and freedom. The culture around Perth is such that most of the people you meet during this experience will become your friends for life. There is also never a dearth of accommodation options with the many hotels and Perth hotel apartments around such as Citadines St Georges Terrace Perth and a number of others available in the city.
More interestingly, in Perth, you could choose to stay at the drop zone and people will just take you in. It does really happen in Perth and it inevitably paves the way for the best way of sightseeing and experiencing the local culture and lifestyle. Imagine looking at a new country or city from the sky, soaring through the wind, the experience changes the way you look at nature and compels you to enjoy your life so much more. Meeting the locals in Perth is also a great idea as it is said that they will tell you about what to do and what not to do while you are sky-diving. Most veteran sky-diving instructors have even said that the vast majority of their students that come in for a simple adventure end up with completely unexpected, career changes that see them happy for the many years to come.

Skydiving Perth — Skydiving in Perth, Img Src:[skydivingPerth]

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+

Elephant Riding in Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is one of Thailand’s most popular cities owning to the city being home to some of the most stunning archeological and historic attractions of Thailand. The natural beauty of the city, coupled with iconic landmarks such as the Wat Phra Sing, the Gate of Siam, and Wat Phra Kaeo, as well as other fascinating attractions such as the Chiang Rai Night Bazaar and the Hill Tribes Museum, visitors of the city are sure to have an amazing experience in Chiang Rai. One of the most recommendable Chiang Saen hotels is the charming.
There are many outdoor activities that one can engage while in Chiang Rai, and one of the most exciting activities is elephant riding. The city of Chiang Rai has a long history of rearing elephants, which are used in the day to day activities of the folk in Chiang Rai. With the boom in tourism, elephant rides became one of the most sought after activities, and today, elephant riding is one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences you can have in Chiang Rai. This attraction has become so popular among tourists that a few Chiang Saen hotels the likes of the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort have given priority to promoting it and even including it part of their facilities.
Elephants are fascinating creatures, and riding on top of these majestic beasts while exploring the hidden beauty of Chiang Rai is truly amazing. There are many elephant camps in Chiang Rai which have trained elephants a top that you can ride. The elephant’s back in fitted with a carriage of sorts that has comfortable seats giving you maximum comfort while being able to observe everything from the top of the elephant, and thus giving you an unimpeded view of the beauty of Chiang Rai. You will go through luscious forests, shallow streams, winding pathways, and secluded areas, to give you an exotic and mesmerizing experience. Elephant riding in Chiang Rai is, therefore, a must-do thing, as it lets you interact with elephants and lets to explore the city like you’ve never done it before.

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+

A Night-out in the Desert

An ocean of sand and an expansive sky stretch above and before you in Abu Dhabi’s Rub al Khali or ‘The Empty Quarter’. The proportions of this desert are simply astounding and provide innumerable opportunities to have fun. You wouldn’t be in a conundrum when choosing between a day or night safari in the desert. Night-time in the desert will activate your imagination and allow for relaxation and adventure. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is perfectly located and is a Liwa Desert resort that will give you multiple opportunities to traverse the desert. A night-out in this desert is beyond unforgettable.

Choose to explore the desert in a Hummer. It will be both a smooth and bumpy ride on the seemingly insurmountable sand dunes.

Evening approaches, and your constant companion, the gleaming disk of gold would quietly retire. Watching its quiet retreat is a treat to the eyes and soul. It’s a perfect sunset. As you prepare to gobble a hearty meal, you will be taken aback by the lithe bodies and glittering outfits of the belly dancers. Experiment with hookah shisha pipes while also listening to soothing music.

Later on in the evening, dinner is served. It is certainly a lavish spread with succulent meats grilled to perfection, salads and rice. Happily stuffed, you can now retire onto your humble mattress. From within your tent a sparkling sky is revealed. Identify the constellations, name the planets and drop off to a comfortable sleep while counting the stars.
Once again, the golden disk peeps through the sand dunes and you will witness a breathtaking sunrise. This is the beauty of a night-out in the desert of Abu Dhabi, where you can enjoy the beauties of dawn and dusk.

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

Fun things to do in Glenelg

Situated along South Australia’s azure Holdfast Bay and only a twenty-five-minute tram ride away from the city center, is Glenelg. The well-known tram has been carting passengers to and fro, from Glenelg to Adelaide’s North Terrace, since the 1920’s. With the delightful atmosphere of a little seaside village, hotels at Glenelg are a treat for a family looking for a getaway.

Head to the beach to paddle, swim or get a solid dose of vitamin D. Take the kids along to The Beachhouse, a short walk from Oaks Plaza Pier, which is an old-fashioned amusement park that features dodgem cars and bumper boats, as well as, arcade games like pinball and air hockey. Take a bicycle or simply hike The Federation Trail. Work your way around Holdfast Bay with its rows of beachside cottages. A few colonial buildings and a World War II air raid shelter can be seen on the trail, which are a throwback to a past era. End up at Kingston Park Coastal Reserve and you will come across the historic Kingston House.

Adults can browse for souvenirs at the charming little boutiques or track down some cheap eats on Jetty Road or head to Holdfast Marina for an elegant meal accompanied by a spectacular sunset. Alternatively, you can set sail to take in the sunset from a fifty-eight by thirty-two-foot high-performance sailing catamaran. Glenelg Golf Club is a private golf club that is ideal for a round of golf but just as good for a winning weekend breakfast. If you happen to be visiting for the Christmas holidays, catch the annual Christmas pageant. Earlier on in the year Glenelg plays host to a jazz festival and the City to Bay Fun Run.

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

A weekend adventure in Brisbane

Embark on an adventure in Brisbane, the riverside city and capital of the sunny state of Queensland. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the country and also one of the friendliest towards visitors. Brisbane CBD hotels are booked up all year round as a result of the fantastic attractions and fabulous weather. A pair of walking shoes is all you need to get started, as Brisbane is a destination that should be discovered on foot. The heart of the city is where you will find the biggest concentration of restaurants and eateries, shops and boutiques, bars and pubs, as well as hotel and apartment accommodation like Oaks 212 Margaret. The Brisbane River, with is avoidable presence, takes pride of place in the heart of the city and the hearts of the people.

Visit the seventeen hectares of parkland, a dedicated recreational space that offers hiking trails, playgrounds, gardens and The Wheel of Brisbane, a Ferris wheel that towers over South Bank at a height of sixty meters. Explore the shopping and dining opportunities at Little Stanley Street or visit the iconic Eagle Street Pier, the core of Brisbane’s food scene.

Walking food tours are a fabulous way to spend an afternoon, whether you enjoy chocolate, craft beer or just food in general. Food festivals are also becoming a popular Brisbane tradition for celebrating cuisines and cultures.

If you run into the ‘Brisbane Greeters’, a group of chatty and helpful Brisbanites, they will be happy to share directions, advice and quick tips for the best spots to visit, places to eat and thing to see and do. If you like marine wildlife, head to Moreton Bay, the ideal lookout for spotting dolphins, whales and turtles. Or if you are otherwise inclined, get yourself a dose of culture along Grey Street, home to Queensland Performing Arts Center, the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the State Library of Queensland or the Queensland Museum and Science center.

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

Adventurous things to do in Maldives

The Maldives is made of over a 1000 small islands which are known for their breathtaking beauty. The islands’ beaches, culture, mild tropical weather, scenic beauty, and hospitality industry combine to make the Maldives one of the most tranquil destinations, but not to worry, these adventurous things to in the Maldives is just what you need for that adrenaline rush you need!

Diving & Snorkeling with Sharks!!!

Being home to fertile coral reefs breeding thousands of species of marine life, it is no surprise that the Maldives is home to some of the most exciting diving sites in the world. If you go to diving sites such as Shark Point, Manta Point, or Hammerhead Point you will get the opportunity of diving with sharks, turtles, manta rays and even whales! Diving is so popular in Maldives that any Maldives hotel; including the luxury Kandolhu Island Maldives, offer diving and snorkeling facilities.

Island Hopping

What is more adventurous that exploring secluded islands? There are many islands in the Maldives that remain uninhabited and completely taken over by nature. Exploring these islands is fun as well as exciting and you never know hidden secrets await you at these islands! Island hopping is immensely popular in the Maldives and many hotels and resorts offer you your own boat so you can hop on all the islands you want.

Speed!

If you are speed-freak then the water sports of Maldives are sure to give you all the excitement you need. You can ride of speeding jet skis, high powered glass-bottom boats, or ski on the water while being tugged by a speedboat! The speed, combined with the experience of exploring the waters and the islands of the Maldives is as adventurous as it can get.

Wreck Diving

Sharks aren’t your thing? No worries; just plot out the many wrecks on the seabed of the Maldives and take the plunge and explore these relics of the past. Wrecks such as the British Royalty are well worth visiting.

Adventure in Langkawi Island -An adventure lover’s paradise!

Langkawi Islands | Image Courtesy : Lankawi

Langkawi Island is one of the most popular islands in Malaysia bordered by golden sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, lush rainforests and unspoiled waterfalls. Langkawi is known to cater to laid back travellers and to the adventurous type. Berjaya Langkawi Resort is situated amidst the dense rainforest with a few steps away from the breath-taking beach, and rooms at Berjaya Langkawi Resort, Malaysia features views of the rainforest and the sea. Adventures range from jet skiing, parasailing, snorkelling, diving, kayaking and horseback riding.

Setting off on a high speed Jet Ski is probably one of the most exciting things that Langkawi has to offer. Jet Ski tours allow its rider to explore around the island, its marine life and caves while also discovering some secluded beaches. Some tours also include snorkelling in the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. The Langkawi Sky Bridge is a 125 meter long walkway that stands 660 meters above sea level. Ideal for panoramic views of the island, travellers are treated to beautiful mountainous landscapes that dominate much of the island.
Adventurers who wish to see the Island from a bird’s view point would love the idea of parasailing. Launched from a boat, the flight will usually last about 10 minutes, giving you ample time to view the magnificent beauty of the Island below. Ensure the parasailing company has the required certificates and licenses in order to ensure your parasailing experience is safe and fun!
An adventure park called Skytrex Adventure features a variety of activities that allows you to climb, swing, crawl or glide through the jungle.
A sunset cruise makes the perfect ending for your adventure filled day in Langkawi Island. Indulge yourself in a cruise along the Andaman Sea while you sip on a cool beverage or have dinner aboard a boat, while the horizon stretches ahead of you giving you the perfect sunset view.

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

Wild life at Bundala National Park

Bunadala National Park | Image Courtesy : Deep South

Sri Lanka is a small island in the Indian Ocean, known for its beautiful beaches, but do take a closer look to discover some of its other wonders. Sri Lanka, despite its size, is one of the best countries in South Asia to watch animals in the wild. And with the recently introduced air taxi, Sri Lanka is even easier to explore. The various different habitats have been converted into national parks to protect the species that they support. Visit the wilds of Sri Lanka to observe large herds of elephants, solitary leopards, shimmering peacock and more.
Bundala National Park is located in the Hambantota District; two hundred and fifty kilometres from the capital city of Colombo. The quickest way to travel the distance is by taking a flight with an airline such as Cinnamon Air to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. The park spans over six thousand hectares but is smaller and less popular than the neighbouring Yala National Park. The region is hot, dusty and dry. You will notice the surrounding areas are mostly flat with thorny scrubs for vegetation but the lagoons and interwoven waterways make for a picturesque view.
Bundala National Park is of international significance because the park plays host to several species of migratory birds. Over two hundred species of bird have been recorded inside the park some travelling from as far as Siberia. It is best known for playing host to flamingoes who make it their winter home; as many as two thousand have been sighted at one time. Other types of fauna include the timid spotted deer, the spirited grey langur monkey and the pangolin, which is a rare sight. The park also has twenty kilometres of beachfront that stretches from Kirinda to Hambantota, where sea turtles sometimes come to nest.

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+