Category: Activities

Wreck Diving in Maldives

Many leagues under the Indian Ocean lies a mysterious underwater world. Many Titanics have met their waterloo under the water and rest in peace with reefs. All this is simply a heaven under the water for the diver.

What more could you expect than exotic marine life, stunning dive sites, warm water, wonderful weather, top quality rental equipment, excellent safety systems, comfortable boats and an enthusiastic and experienced multilingual dive team on your adventure? All these services are available at Anantara Veli, Maldives, one of the Maldives Bungalows.

Maldivian atolls offer easy access to these shipwrecks. However government permission is required to dive into shipwrecks of historical interest. Interestingly these wrecks get different shapes with the pattern of marine life.

Wreck diving is not every diver’s cup of tea. Only a few divers – who are professionals, in fact – have developed an interest for diving underwater to explore this wreck life. Intriguingly they can discover how marine life absorbs these human civilization’s relics and adapts into a symbiotic connection with them. Strangely there is a rhythm to their co-existence.

Maldivian waters are calm, warm and clear. The opportunity is quite inviting to watch how this relationship exists underwater. The reefs grown on wrecked remains have naturally offered shelter to underwater flora and fauna. These remains, which were once titanic ships, could pose interesting stories that echo a glorious past. In a way it is somewhat ghastly to watch them as they silently re-narrates a story.

Seven diving sites are identified in Maldives which have wrecks: Maldives Victory in North Male, Kuda Giri in South Male, Fesdu Wreck in the centre of Ari Atoll, British Loyalty in Addu Atoll and Khudaa Maa near Angaga Island. Most these wrecks are located 30 metres (average) deep under the water.

It will be amazing to see how lobsters have made their homes on the bow of these wrecks.

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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Koh Tan: The Best Snorkeling Trip for Everyone

ou would perhaps wonder if there could be a better place for snorkelling in the world than Koh Tan. Their outstanding snorkel equipment such as snorkel, mask, fins and life jacket. Koh tan is also known for its delightful scenery.

Check in with Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort & Spa, a Hotel in Samui, and be ready for the adventure. The waters are a bit shallow, but is full of fish for a first time snorkeler.

It is waiting for you with blazing sun and clear waters to explore deep sea.

Koh Taen is noted mostly because of its unspoilt islands. Among many adventurous activities you have in there include snorkeling, fishing and kayaking. Koh Tan occupies the space of 7.5 sq km. It also contains a small village. This island is also known as coral island, due to its rich coral diversity. There are other islands too along with Koh Tan: Koh Mudsum, Koh Raab, Koh Wang Nok and Koh Wangnai. Tan is the largest of them all.

This is also a natural bay area. The rich coral diversity and the natural bay area status are more than enough to make the snorkelling experience a memorable one. Although global warming and sea temperatures have led to destruction of some amount of coral reefs, it will still be adventurous with plenty of fish to spot underwater.

Another memorable experience will be to snorkel during the sunset. The waters will take a different shape and colour as the sun slowly sets. You need to be at Koh Tan at least by 4 pm, to get ready: putting on your swimwear and snorkel gear.

If you wish to fish too, then you need to be at the island a little early like 9.30 in the morning. It is a half-an-hour sail to Koh Tan Reserve. Snorkelling and fishing programmes are designed according to guest’s familiarity with them. The novice snorkelers as well as pros will also get a golden opportunity.

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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Diving in Baa Atoll

Those waters in Baa Atoll are quite inviting and warm. You will feel like taking a dip immediately once you sight those waters. There is so much to see in these waters, when you dive.

From Male International Airport, it is only a 35-minute seaplane flight to Baa Atoll. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, one of the Maldives Hotels, offers a deluxe perspective to this atoll.

Baa Atoll’s fish life mainly includes midnight snapper, small-toothed emperor, coral rock cod, moon fusiliers and broad-striped fusiliers.

An administrative division in Maldives, Baa Atoll has three natural atolls: Maalhosmadulu, Fasduthere and Goifulhafehendhu. There are two marine-protected areas well noted for whale-shark encounters. Hanifaru Bay, which is on the east side of Baa Atoll, is a small vacant isle, is known for whale sharks. Take your waterproof camera and try to capture the underwater life.

For manta ray feeding too, Hanifaru Bay is considered to be the best place. You will see different kinds of behaviour patterns as you dive near the surface. As the Bay is full of food for manta, different behaviours could be seen. They would even get into fights with each other, as they idle around.

Once under the water, you are the photographer who can take spiral whip corals. Check out for Maldivian sponge snail too in this area. Its looks are quite distinctive. In Maldives, this snail is considered endemic. Its movement is ultra slow, around a centimetre a day. It will be your treasure as a photographer.

Baa Atoll has 16 identified dive sites: Bathalaa Kandu, Milaidhoo House Reef, Veyofushi Bodu Giri, Hirundhoo House Reef, Kakani Thila, Dhonisu Thila, Faimini Bodu Thila, Faimini Kuda Thila, Dharavehoo Thila, Horubadhoo Thila, Kunfunadhoo Thila, Digalihaa Thila, Nelivaru Thila, Miriandoo Thila, Madi Thila and Muthafushi Thila.

As a significant biosphere reserve in Maldives, Baa Atoll narrates a detailed account of human interaction with the environment.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Relax Yourself and Learn Kitesurfing in Thailand

Hua Hin Thailand boasts the best winds for enjoying a spot of kitesurfing. Enjoy the gorgeous sunny weather, minimum rainfall and general party atmosphere of this vibrant town as you take on the art of kitesurfing. Finding a hotel in Hua Hin is easy, but make sure you choose one that’s close to the sandy beaches. For ultimate luxury and comfort check out the Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa.

A beautiful resort designed to resemble an ancient Thai Village this hotel sits right on the white sandy beach of Hua Hin. Enjoy a rejuvenating Thai massage, tee off at the nearby golf course or relax and enjoy the luxurious accommodation. This retreat comprises of well-appointed elegant rooms and suites offering gorgeous views of the ocean. Thai silk décor together with loads of light and space within these comfortable quarters will help you rest and relax in style.

Get that adrenaline pumping with some adventure on the beach by taking up kitesurfing, 6 kilometres of sandy beach and good wind makes this sport a favourite amongst many tourists. Kitesurfing is easy to learn as there are plenty of ‘Kitesurfing schools’ for beginners. Don’t worry about gear as branded kites together with other equipment are readily available at the sports goods stores.

The huge sandy beaches and shallow waters of Hua Hin make this sport safe for all, enjoy the birds-eye view of the city and ocean as the wind whips your hair and take back a million memories.

What’s more the added benefits of getting a Thai massage on the beach or enjoying the vibrant night life make a sunny holiday in Hua Hin very conducive.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Adventure Sports Activities in Maldives

The beautiful island cluster of Maldives is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Almost all of Maldives luxury hotels, including the Naladhu Maldives have made excellent use of the exquisite beaches, turquoise waves and the delightful weather to create an unforgettable holiday experience. Aside from lounging in the tropical sun, Maldives and its luxury resorts offer travelers a fascinating selection of adventure sports.

Diving and snorkeling are among the most popular adventure sports in Maldives. Whether you are a beginner in search of lessons or an experienced diver, you have a chance to enjoy gorgeous underwater views of coral reefs and tropical fish around an island of your choice. The supplies and instructors for diving and snorkeling are readily available all around the islands. The crystal clear waters and the abundance of underwater flora and fauna will surely tempt you to return again and again.

If you are looking for the thrill of speed, waterskiing and windsurfing are available for your indulgence. Most of the Maldives islands are surrounded with large lagoons with the perfect conditions for windsurfing in complete safety. Beginners can seek professional help at the many watersport centers while experts can rent equipment to enjoy their sport. The Indian Ocean also offers a chance for surfing enthusiasts to catch some excellent waves that range from 3 -8 feet in height.

Fishing in the Maldivian waters is yet another adventurous activity offered in this exquisite destination. Those who come in search for big game and fast boats can cast their lines for jackfish, barracuda, giant tuna and sailfish among many other exotic species. After a long day of sun and waves, you can sit back and relax with a bit of night fishing under the stars, a sport unique to Maldives.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Wildlife Experience in UAE

UAE is being acclaimed as a paradise to vacation with varied opportunities available to cater diverse tastes. For the holiday makers who love wildlife, there are countless options available to enjoy the beauty of nature at Sir Bani Yas Island of Abu Dhabi. If you are planning to make your visit to this island unforgettable with wildlife drives and wildlife walks, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi is a perfect choice of accommodation among 5 star hotels in Abu Dhabi.

Wildlife experience on this terrain includes many desirable activities like bird watching, safari rides and marine trips to observe a wide range of uncommon and endangered flora and fauna. Especially, popular Sir Bani Yas Island houses Arabia’s largest wildlife reserve and it provides shelter to many free roaming animals and millions of plants. These rich varied species are a source of magnetism to any nature lover.

As you explore these landscapes teeming with wildlife, you would have the opportunity to observe untamed sand gazelles, giraffes, elands, Arabian oryx, fast cheetahs and many other indigenous animals. Always keep your eyes open to enjoy the wilderness of this stupefying experience. Furthermore, if you are a passionate bird lover, do not forget to take an early morning walk to have glimpse of rare sea birds and migratory birds including the celebrity falcons during different seasons.

One can add vivacity to their wild life experience with game drives and mountain biking along well known dirt tracks providing up close view of animals to capture ideal photographs of evidence. Spot the large number of terrestrial plants guided by a nature expert. Equally, explore the lush mangroves and tranquil waters blessed with loads amazing marine species. Moreover, do not forget to mark your experience memorable with a horseback ride or an awe-inspiring view of the sunset on this territory!

Finally, if you’re keen to bewitch your vacation with a splendid nature-hugging getaway, then a wildlife tour in UAE, especially Abu-Dhabi, is assuredly your destination.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Minneriya National Park- nature lover’s paradise

Minneriya National Park which is located between the cities of Habarana and Pollonnuruwa was declared as a National Park in 1997. The park is an ideal place to watch elephant gatherings during the dry season. Home to different habitats and arrays of flora and fauna the National Park of Manneriya is a dream come true for nature lovers and photographers. Travellers planning holidays in Sri Lanka can use the services offered by the well renowned tour provider,Walkers Tours Sri Lanka and enjoy a comfortable tour through the North central province.

The central attraction of the park is the Minneriya Tank built by King Mahasena. During June to September this is an unbelievable place to observe the elephants and the flocks of birds such as the painted storks, pelicans, open bills and many other migratory and local birds. Travellers could also spot the Sambar deer, sloth bears, and the leopards when visiting the park. A feeding ground for the Sri Lankan elephants the reservoir sustains a large herd of elephants at a given time. The landscape of the park is simply magnificent; it consists of wetlands, grasslands and tropical evergreen forests as well as small shrubs areas. Apart from these there are a large collection of reptiles in the park such as the endemic and endangered red-lipped lizard and the skinks.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Jungle Kayaking in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, a city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous tourist destinations. Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th Century BC until the capital was moved to Polonnaruwa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura has many ancient ruins which intrigued even modern archeologists and engineers. A recommendable Anuradhapura hotel to stay in is the Ulagalla Resort; which offers tranquil accommodation and a host of luxury amenities.

While visiting the ruins of Anuradhapura is the city’s primary attraction, the city is also famous for several recreational activities; such as kayaking. Anuradhapura has many lakes and rivers, most of which were constructed by the ancient kings for irrigation and plantation. Many of these lakes and rivers flow through jungles, making kayaking all the more exciting and intriguing.

Kayaking, as it is, is an extremely exciting activity. Kayaking can done either alone or with a crowd, based on the type of kayak available. Tandems; boats which two or more persons can travel in, are great if you want to go on an adventure with your loved ones of friends. When the lush and mysterious jungles of Anuradhapura are added into the equation, the whole experience becomes much of magical. These jungles, which have seen the history of the city, are beautiful and offer a sense of tranquility and calmness. Kayaking through them is sure to be an outdoor activity which will leave you with an unforgettable experience. There are many hotels and resorts in Anuradhapura which offer Kayaking equipment and other services. These hotels are located in close proximity to some of the lakes which are most suitable for kayaking, so you should be able to get going without much hassle.

The jungle kayaking experience in Anuradhapura is sure to be both exciting and unforgettable, so don’t forget to try it out when you visit Anuradhapura.

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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Lotus Hill

There are many hills along the Pearl River Delta in Guangzhou, of which the most famous is the Lotus Hill. This hill is famous scenic area in Guangzhou and known for its unique rock formations, annual festivals and the breathtaking views it offers. For a tranquil and comfortable stay in a short of long stay service apartment in Guangzhou, make a reservation at the luxury Ascott IFC Guangzhou.

The Lotus Hill is located in Panya city, just 20km away from the centre of Guangzhou, and actually consists of 48 red sandstone hills. These 48 hills are of varying height, the tallest being 108m. The hills are beautiful and are a great choice for an excursion with family and friends. Lotus Hill got its name from an old Chinese folk legend, where the Mother Buddha dropped down a lotus flower to control an unruly dragon. Legend has it that the hill arose on the spot where the lotus flower fell, and thus the people named the hill after the flower.

The Lotus Hill has many fascinating things about it. One of its most famous features is its unique rock formations. The Eagle Cliff, the Swallow Rock and the Lion Stone are some of the famous rock formations of Lotus Hill. Each of these formations offers different types of views and scenery. For example, the view from the Eagle Cliff is of networks of roads, and beyond that are lush paddy fields and the winding Pearl River. Similarly the view from Swallow Rock gives you a view of four distinct cliffs which are covered with green vines, given them the effect of them looking like a green screen. The Hill is also the site of the annual Lotus Festival and the Peach Blossom Festival.

The Lotus Hill is a great place to visit for a small adventure. The best time to visit the hill is during the festivals, but regardless of the festivals, the Lotus Hill is still an exciting attraction.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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Night Snorkeling in Maldives

Maldives is a archipelagic state which is located in South Asia. Known for its amazing natural beauty, pristine white sandy beaches and thriving tourism industry, Maldives is a great destination for those who wish to engage in water and beach activities. One such amazing and magical activity is snorkeling at night. The Velassaru Maldives is a luxury resort which is known for its tranquil accommodation, and offers many exciting things to do in Maldives island.

The Maldives is a world renowned diving and snorkeling destination. This is due to the reason that the waters of Maldives are home to amazing underwater sights and attractions. The Maldives has many splendid coral reefs which are abundant with marine life. These colorful coral in all shapes and sizes, many exotic species of marine life, as well as astounding underwater caves make the diving and snorkeling sites of Maldives magical even during the day. But at night time the experience become even more extraordinary…

The clear tropical waters, glistening with the moonlight, make the mere sight of the waters mesmerizingly beautiful. Snorkeling at night means you must take a flash light with you, so that you can discover the nighttime waters. You will be able to see marvelous coral reefs glistening under the moonlight. You will get to see the many species of fish, and even whales, sleeping in the calm and quiet nighttime waters. There are other species that are only active in the night, so night snorkeling allows you to see these species too .One of the most amazing highlights of night snorkeling is the glimmering and shining biolumiscent plankton and micro life. Glistening under the moonlight, these creatures create an effect of floating glitter underwater, which is a sight that you have to experience.

Night snorkeling in itself is exciting and magical, but night snorkeling in the waters of the Maldives is far more magical. So go ahead and explore the nighttime waters of Maldives.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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