Category: Activities

Nature & Wild Life Activities in Abu Dhabi

Explore the wild side of Sir Bani Yas by indulging in a 4×4 Nature and Wild Life excursion specially organized by one of the finest Abu Dhabi Beach hotels; Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. Book a 4 hour tour and explore nature to your heart’s content. The hotel also provides its guest with learned guides who are more than happy to share all sorts of interesting information about this fascinating natural island.

The Sir Bani Yas Island is located some 100kms south west of Abu Dhabi and makes the largest natural island in the United Arab Emirates. The unparalleled scenic appeal and rich array of flora and fauna makes Sir Bani Yas extremely popular with the tourists. Infact the wild life reserve in Sir Bani Yas is the islands biggest attraction. Established in 1971, the reserve has blossomed into a successful wild life sanctuary that is today home to 1000s of large, free roaming animals and a number of rare species of plants. In addition to the wildlife reserve the park houses an interesting bird sanctuary as well, altogether occupying over half of Sir Bani Yas Island.

Some of the interesting species found in Sir Bani Yas includes the Arabian Oryx, Gazelles, Deers, giraffes and even dolphins and sea turtles. The Arabian Oryx is particularly fascinating as it is one species that has been completely extinct in the wild but in this sanctuary the world’s largest herd of Arabian Oryx can be found. The Bird sanctuary of the Park is home to a number of wild birds, some of which are even indigenous to the island.

Like everything else in the Emirates the park goes all out in ensuring its guests have an excellent time here. Nature is showcased in this reserve through a number of interesting activities such as safaris, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and snorkeling. The Sir Bani Yas gives you the finest experience that you could have with the Wild life of the Emirates.

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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Dolphin Quest in Veli

Refresh, rejuvenate and relish your holiday by spending a few nights in one of the finest Maldives Bungalows there is. The Anantara Veli, Maldives is a hotel that redefines luxury altogether. Located along a coral framed island in the South Male Atoll, Anantara Veli is the very definition of a paradise abode. Apart from basking in the sheer beauty of your surroundings and enjoying the comfort and services of the hotel, Anantara Veli is an excellent start off point for a world of adventures. Nature has never been closer to any other resort.

The list of activities available for you to indulge in is endless. Some require more skill and expertise and others not so much. Most of them are water based and require you to feel on your skin the warm waters of the Maldives. However, if you are looking to stay dry while savoring the famous wonders of Maldives; why not take part in the Dolphin Quest.

The Ocean around the many Maldivian Islands is adorned with thousands of dolphins. In fact Dolphins thrive perfectly here and even certain rare varieties have been sighted. Indulge in a Cruise around the lagoon and look out for spinner dolphins. The thrill of sighting these creatures in the midst of one of their acrobatic stunts is truly incomparable. A dolphin cruise never leaves you disappointed for these creatures love the Company of humans and they are never too shy to show off a little bit. The best part about the Dolphin Quest in Veli is that each trip across the ocean includes the company of a learned marine biologist. In addition to providing you with a short lecture on the life of dolphins the biologist is also available to answer any questions and queries that you may have about the thriving marine life of the 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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Abu Dhabi Travelling Tips

The city of Abu Dhabi is the capital and center of governance of the United Arab Emirates. Adorned with the epitome of luxury, Abu Dhabi and its neighboring city Dubai makes perhaps the two most exciting regions in the whole of the Arabian Peninsula. Characterized by thousands of sky high buildings, unparalleled cityscapes, lush manmade gardens and opulent shopping malls, Abu Dhabi is nothing short of paradise for the luxury loving tourist. Almost every hotel in Abu Dhabi mirrors the sheer class that is synonymous to this city’s name. People come from afar to bask in this jewel studded city and the many comforts that it beholds. Perfectly located in close proximity to the many attractions in Abu Dhabi, the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara is a popular choice for many who visit the city; be it for business or leisure purpose.

Abu Dhabi’s location on the Eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula makes it prone to dry and extremely hot weather conditions; particularly in the months between May and August. When heading out on the many excursions in Abu Dhabi particularly to the deserts or the beaches, sun screen is almost always an absolute must. On many occasions the luxury again comes to rescue Abu Dhabi from the harsh weather conditions as excellent temperature control is found in nearly every enclosed region in the city.
Although far more cosmopolitan than the rest of the Arabian nations put together, a little modesty would be appreciated in regions sensitive to culture or religion. The breathtaking Sheikh Zayed mosque is an excellent example of such a location. One of the most spectacular attractions of the city, the mosque demands its female visitors to be head covered while touring the premises of this place of worship.

Abu Dhabi is a city that enjoys its tourists and in turn tourists fall in love with this city. So hold back nothing and indulge in this city completely and bask in its luxury from dawn till dusk and even beyond.

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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Desert Activities in Abu Dhabi

The endless stretches of soft golden sands are one of UAE’s biggest attractions. People from around the globe visit these deserts to bask in their unspoiled beauty. Although deserts are made of merely dunes and dunes and more dunes there is so much to discover in these amazing dunes. Pretty much all the luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has includes touring these golden wonders as part of their available excursion packages but nothing quite tops the desert experience offered by the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

There is so much to do, so much to see and so much to part take in. There is something absolutely awe inspiring and intriguing about the Arabian Desert. Several of the desert activities boast rugged strength and power. Take archery for instance. In Liwa the tribesman took great pride in their hunting skills. Today in this very desert you get an opportunity to try your hand at archery. There is a number of shooting ranges which you can indulge in depending on your level of experience with archery. Another interesting fat burning activity in the deserts of Abu Dhabi is Mountain biking. The experience of biking on sand dunes is unique in all angles. If you are looking for means of exploring the deserts why not opt for a ride atop the back of a camel. These tall crooked animals give you a spectacular ride and better yet a spectacular view of your desert surroundings.

One of the most exciting and adventurous activities on the desert is dune bashing. Hire a 4×4 vehicle along with a guide and be a part of the thrilling adventure where your driver conquers the dunes in a series of sharp and exciting moves. Another bold and beautiful activity depicting the age old culture of the Emirates is the Falconry and Saluki show. The traditional sport of Falconry which was practiced for thousands of years has made this fierce bird a cultural symbol of the UAE. A live falcon and a saluki show are presented followed by exciting stories about hunting with these mighty falcons.

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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Camel Trekking across the Liwa Desert

The Desert of Abu Dhabi is one of the most exciting attractions in the city. Adorned with a number of historic wonders and an unspoiled golden backdrop, the Desert of Abu Dhabi makes some of the few remaining places where one can enjoy a sneak peek of what Abu Dhabi once was. Camels made an important part of the historic and nomadic Arabian lifestyle. These enormous innocent animals were used for milk, meat and mainly transportation. You can still experience and relive the feeling of traveling from one region to another on the back of a camel by indulging in a camel safari across the Liwa Desert.

The Liwa Desert in Abu Dhabi boasts vast stretches of rolling dunes with a breathtaking Oasis in the center. For tourists, the Liwa desert is an excellent spot to absorb some authentic Emirati culture. The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is one of the many luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has that organizes tours to the Liwa Desert. The Tour packages covers 6 important locations in the area which includes a palm tree farm, a cucumber farm and a Camel farm. The Camel farm gives you a unique opportunity to experience an up-close and personal interaction with camels. Taste delicious camel milk and camel milk yoghurt or better yet, hop atop a camels crooked back and indulge in a ride across the Liwa desert.

Camels are amazing creatures to show you across the desert. For one, the ride is an interesting experience and for the other, camels give you an authentic glimpse of nomadic travel. Indulge in your adventure close to sunset because in addition to the cooler weather conditions you can enjoy the unparalleled experience of the sun disappearing behind the dunes. The sunset in Liwa atop a tall camel’s back is one experience you would never want to miss in Abu Dhabi.

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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Arabian Wildlife Park, a natural sanctuary

Nature lovers visiting the charming desert Emirate of Abu Dhabi should make it a point to visit the attractive Arabian Wildlife Park located on Sir Bani Yas Island. Here visitors will be able to observe a host of native animals roaming free in this sanctuary. To conveniently access this and other attractions in Abu Dhabi selecting a quality accommodation such as the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi is important. One of the fine resorts Abu Dhabi offers this attractive hotel provides tasteful rooms and attentive hospitality.

The meticulously conceived Arabian Wildlife Park occupies roughly half of the area of Sir Bani Yas Island. This park was created with the objective of providing a hospitable natural environment for the varieties of animals native to the region. Today thousands of these indigenous creatures wander freely within this sanctuary. In turn these wild denizens attract a steady stream of animal lovers who arrive to observe these creatures in their natural environment.

Some of these animals are herbivores such as the Sand Gazelle, Mountain Gazelle and the threatened Arabian Oryx. Carnivores and scavengers at this sanctuary include the cheetah and the hyena. Although the management of this park places great importance on conservation and research initiatives, an array of attractive wildlife and adventure themed activities have been organized with visitors in mind. These options include wildlife drives, nature trail excursions, outdoor dining facilities and mountain biking adventures. The management takes understandable pride in having created this world-class sanctuary and is eager to share its attractions with visitors from abroad.

The initial breeding efforts at the park commenced as far back as 1971. One of its most notable successes was the conservation efforts to revive populations of the Arabian Oryx, which was at one time declared to be extinct in its natural environments. Today this species is making great strides towards recovery, highlighting the significant role played by this wildlife park.

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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Hin Ta and Hin Yai, an unforgettable sight

The rock formations known as Hin Yai and Hin Ta are well known attractions in the Thai island of Koh Samui. To experience these and other local highlights whilst making the most of your holiday it is important to base yourself at an attractive Samui hotel such as the Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort & Spa. This appealing resort offers comfortable accommodations and an array of convenient amenities.

Hin Yai and Hin Ta are a couple of intriguing natural rock structures which for innumerable years has been the cause of laughter and fascination amongst the local residents as well as visitors to the area. This is because these two rocks, Yai (Grandma) and Ta (Grandpa) are thought to resemble the female and male genitalia respectively. Located on the rocky shores in the environs of Lamai beach, this pair of rock formations never fails to raise amused chuckles or at least an indulgent smile.

Additionally the visitor from abroad will enjoy spectacular panoramic views from this location, extending across the waters to the nearby islets. Although the local beach is not a suitable location for swimming, it does offer an attractive place to rest after a day of exploration and exertion. The waters here are so exceedingly clear that different kinds of marine creatures can be viewed from above the surface.

In these environs you will also find a community of Muslim fisher folk who live much as they have for generations. In these surroundings the visitor will also find a picturesque environment of fields and plantations with the local water buffalo a common sight. This was in fact the typical mode of life in these areas before the development of tourism. However the visitor will also come across numerous stalls and kiosks offering picture postcards of the location, souvenirs, snacks and drinks. A visit to this part of Thailand will certainly be a satisfying experience.

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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Dune Bashing –Wild Driving in the Dunes

The vast stretches of rolling golden dunes have always been one of Oman’s biggest attractions. In fact a holiday in Oman is not complete without experiencing all the wonders that these vistas have to offer. There is feeling of being whisked away from the world when one is on these dunes. While exploring the authentic side of Oman, try staying at the Desert Nights Camp. This is one hotel in Oman which will give you the fullest experience of the authentic Omani World.

There is a blissful tranquility in the Omani stretches of Dunes. Unlike the UAE, Oman is more quiet and subdue, yet gives the same ravenous thrill with all its wonders. A popular activity on Dunes -anywhere where there is a desert- is dune bashing. Dune bashing is a sport where large 4 wheel drive vehicles are driven off road into the dunes. It might sound easy but it is not. In fact a lot of skill and technique is required to maneuver the vehicle around the many slopes and curves of the dunes. But rest assured all the hard work completely pays off for Dune bashing gives a thrill and adventure like no other sport.

In Oman one of the best places for Dune bashing is the Wahiba Sands at the Bidiya Village. Since Dune bashing is immensely popular in this area, there is plenty of 4×4 for rent, roaming the area. Unless you are an expert driver or have plenty of experience with dunes in the past, it is advisable to hire a professional driver. Omanis are found in plenty in this area who are more than happy to drive you around so that you can enjoy an optimum experience of Dune bashing. In addition to being your drivers on the desert, these Omani’s serve very well as guides and may even give you a sneak peek of a typical Omani desert lifestyle.

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. Google+

Wellness Journeys in Bali, a delightful & rejuvenating experience

An ever increasing number of travellers seeking to rejuvenate their health and their lives are choosing to undertake wellness journeys. By doing so participants will be able to enjoy a selection of health-giving spa treatments combined with pleasant relaxed travel to local sites of interest, all in a spirit of spiritual contentment and rejuvenation. The Indonesian island of Bali has consolidated a strong reputation for being a premier venue for such wellness programmes, as it offers a pleasant climate, a tradition of tranquillity and serenity as well as a multitude of interesting sightseeing attractions. Above all Bali offers a laidback ambience that is ideal for the visitor in search of peace and comfort.

If you are interested in visiting the island and are seeking a quality resort in Bali that has its own luxurious spa there are some excellent options available. Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort & Spa is such an option and offers a wealth of treatments and therapies to bring about holistic healing.

Bali is a truly beautiful and magical tropical island and many parts of this alluring paradise have retained their pristine charms, presenting an environment far removed from the hectic hustle and bustle of the urban lifestyle. There is no better venue for a comprehensive wellness programme.

The opportunities at this alluring island truly seem to be endless. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage in a yoga session at the break of dawn, with mystical age-old temples as a backdrop. Visitors can take the opportunity to experience a therapeutic massage on the sandy beaches, with the shimmering ocean waters murmuring in the background. Where else would you have the opportunity to practice walking meditation across verdant rice paddy fields?

If on the other hand you are a water sports lover, you will have the chance to indulge in your favoured leisure pursuits, such as surfing on the local waters. In Bali there are opportunities to be found nowhere else in the world, such as experiencing the hereditary healing arts known as Djamoe, which has been passed down through the generations. You will also find modern state of the art spas with all the modern facilities that you may require. Your visit to Bali is sure to be the experience of a lifetime.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Enjoy Sunset Hand Line Fishing Excursions in Paradise Archipelago Maldives

Travellers on the lookout for luxurious Maldives hotels with villa accommodation will be more than pleased with Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas. Offering guests the best in contemporary amenities in a tranquil setting this beachside resort is one of the finest rests in the region.

Maldives is a group of 1190 islands famous for its clear blue seas, white, sandy beaches and perhaps as a holiday destination that one simply cannot afford to miss on a tour of Asia. Although many enjoy snorkeling and sunbathing and engaging in various water sports activities in this holiday Mecca a vacation in the Maldives would be incomplete without trying one’s hand at the traditional form of hand line fishing.

Also known as bottom fishing or legering, night fishing, this method of fishing is available in many of the archipelago’s divine resorts. As an ancient form of fishing, it is fishing method in which the bait is put on a hook and dropped to the bottom of the sea with a weight. The line is pulled back up a little from the sea bed so that it does not get entangled in the corals littering the ocean floor. Then it’s a matter of waiting and enjoying a breathtaking sunset or a starry night sky while anticipating a tug at the end of the line. The day’s catch is cooked for the fisherman and consumed by the fishing party according to local custom.

As many forms of commercial fishing is forbidden in most islands in Maldives, hand line fishing is one of the most common forms of fishing available in the Maldives in addition to pelagic fishing and reef fishing.

Hand line fishing is most often carried out in small boats named Bokkuraas. Three to four people can ride in these boats for the duration of a 4 to 5 hour trip. Different types of bait ranging from live bait to fish waste are used to catch different types of fish. These tours are organized by many of the resorts and hotels in Maldives to let tourists enjoy an ancient method of fishing still in practice today.

Maldivians made their livelihood from the sea. Passed on from generation to generation the traditions of the fisherman can still be experienced by an outsider. All those who experience fishing in the Maldives for even one day will come to learn of the respect and love locals have for the sea and the delicate balance that must be maintained for the survival of man and nature.

 

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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