What’s more exciting than bumper cars but safer than sky diving? Skyline luging, of course! And if you’re in New Zealand’s adventure capital of Queenstown, you must make the exciting Skyline Queenstown Luge part of your itinerary for fun and excitement. Consider staying at one of the luxury New Zealand Queenstown hotelssuch as the Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview. These stylish apartments set within breathtaking natural surroundings are an ideal example ofQueenstown hotel accommodation. Known as an absolutely thrilling ride for riders of all abilities and ages, the Skyline Queenstown Hotel should be your next destination when you are in the city. You will get to zip along the scenic track which is a considerably low-key ride over a gentle gradient, gradual bends, dips, and tunnels. For those wanting more thrills, the advanced track meanders down a gradient of steeper proportions and exciting banked corners, cuttings, dippers, and tunnels. So sit down, strap on tight, and let loose your inhibitions! Featuring the highest quality vehicles outfitted with an excellent steering and braking ensemble, you are always in control of the ride, and you will be able to change your speed or course at will. With 800 metres of pure, adrenaline-pumping fun, how can you resist the Skyline Luge in Queenstown?
Category: Activities
Serious Fun River Surfing
The Kawarau River in Queenstown has since 1987, been the epicentre for river sledging or river surfing. A surfer from Hawaii – Jon Imhoof – who visited Queenstown, New Zealand unexpectedly had to have his stay extended. As such when he was looking for an alternative activity, he hit upon the idea of taking his board onto the water. It was then that it was discovered that the white water and rapids on the Kawarau River were ideal for an all new type of fun and adventure.
The Serious Fun River Surfing company was born on this discovery in 1989 and has since then been a pioneer in bringing this interesting and thrilling experience to many adventure seekers who travel from all corners of the globe to try their hand at this action packed activity.
Dividing the waterway into two sections, namely Chinese Dogleg and Roaring Megs, these surfing trips are undertaken twice a day from November to March and once a day during the months of April, May, September and October. Which section of the river is chosen for which trip largely depends on the weather conditions, rapids and water levels.
The Serious Fun River Surfing company provides all the necessary equipment including life jackets, fins, helmets, full steam wet suits and photos and videos of your experience and can be obtained after the trip. Refreshments too are provided after the four and a half hour trip of which almost two and a half hours will be spent on the water.
The company together with the sport has received many commendations and awards from many esteemed travel companies, travel sites and other related institutions. River surfing was in fact named the best water based thrill sport and Queenstown, the best place for it.
If you hope to visit the country and are on the lookout for Queenstown hotel accommodation, then be sure to choose one that is conveniently located.New Zealand Queenstown hotels are easy to find and if a convenient location and modern amenities are what you are looking for then Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is an ideal choice for your next visit to this scenic part of the country.
Yala National Park
A traveller looking to be based at a Sri Lanka beach resort should look to none other than Ranna 212, one of the finest Tangalle hotels. The island’s second largest and most visited national park, Yala consists of five blocks with individual names. Located in the country’s southeast region, the park is well known for its wildlife and plays a major role in the conservation of aquatic birds and Sri Lankan elephants. Within the vicinity of Yala itself are three wildlife sanctuaries and six national parks. Playing host to a diverse array of ecosystems from marine wetlands and freshwater to moist monsoon forests, Yala has long been among the country’s main tourist attractions.
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. Google+
Mountaineering trips in Queenstown
If your inner mountain climber is aching to trek across some of the most splendid ranges in the world bar none, make a mountain excursion part of an adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand’s excitement haven. Invest in one of quality New Zealand Queenstown hotels such as the Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview. With luxury interiors and gracious hospitality, it is an ideal example of Queenstown hotel accommodation to host your stay here. Summits Mountain Guiding is an excellent resource to tap when you want to explore the mountains of Queenstown at your leisure, as part of a group or a partnership. This renowned name in the trade offers an array of excursions to suit your lifestyle and preferences, including 2 day courses that teach you everything from climbing skills, ice skills, and 5 days courses for more advanced mountaineers who want to brave the icy heights in search of adventure and excitement. True professionals in the field can even embark on the signature 10-day advanced mountaineers course that will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. Featuring the expertise of trained mountaineers with decades of experience in navigating the mountains, you’ll be well looked after when you brave the NZ mountaineers as a rookie, or as a seasoned pro.
Milford Sound Scenic Flights
Visitors to the New Zealand adventure capital of Queenstown would be remiss if they did not take to the skies on one of the most breathtaking natural escapades in the area: a Milford Sound scenic flight. Make this exciting activity part of your vacation when you book into one of the panoramic New Zealand Queenstown hotels such as the Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview. With stunning visuals unfolding before you in all directions, you will feel transported to another realm at this stellar offering of Queenstown hotel accommodation. Billed as one of the most visually stunning areas in the world, Milford Sound will whisk you away into another realm of pristine natural beauty, especially if you charter a flight over this spectacular locale, courtesy of renowned tour operator Milford Scenic Flights. Take off from either Milford Sound itself, or from Queenstown for those of you who are basing your vacations there. In addition, you could soak in the wonders of Milford Sound by also indulging in a fabulous journey by luxury coach, as well as a scenic cruise along with the flight package. The company also features exclusive charter flights to the majestic Mount Cook, or to the glaciers. With an experienced staff and flight crew, your sojourn over the Milford Sound skies is guaranteed to be truly unforgettable.
Abu Dhabi Road Trips
Take to the wide open road heading out of Abu Dhabi, and see what adventures await you, when you embark on Abu Dhabi road trips during your visit to this splendid emirate. Ensure that you check into one of the fine resorts Abu Dhabi has to offer, with the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas featuring luxury Abu Dhabi villas that are perfect to host your stay here. If you’ve got a rugged 4×4 at the ready, head over to the town of Shawka, which is two hours away from Abu Dhabi and features a fun collection of wadis (sand dunes), and spectacular off-road trails that are adventures in and of themselves. Hitch a mountain bike to the back of your truck, as there are plenty of trails that are perfect to cycle through. The area also features the spectacular Al Shawka dam, so bring your camera for some perfect photo opportunities. You could visit some of the other emirates in the region, with Shajah presenting a delightful selection of experiences. It features over 20 museums – perfect for the culture vulture to explore to their heart’s content. Here, you will also find a thriving underground arts scene, and the Corniche is your best bet to soak up all these unique cultural experiences. Another emirate, Ajman, features a fabulous beach that is never crowded (owing to the lack of press), and the city itself is worth spending a day trip exploring. Afterword, head over to the market near the town of Al Dhaid, where you can pick up handicrafts, trinkets, odds and ends, and other traditional souvenirs that are perfect as gifts for yourself or the folks back home. If you are interested in learning about the history of Abu Dhabi, the Liwa Oasis, which is the birthplace of the emirate’s ruling families. With over 50 villages, as well as some date farms, it is a charm to explore. So when you have got a few days off, hit the UAE road and see where it takes you!
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.
Kayaking in Koh Phangan
How does a kayaking trip around the beaches of Koh Phangan sound? If this is what you seek to accomplish in Koh Phangan then you are surely in for a treat. Koh Phangan resorts such as Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa would be a good place to stay from where you could hire a kayak. These Koh Phangan hotels would lead you to having the time of your life surrounded by calm seas and warm sunshine.
The area of Koh Phangan itself is linked with major fun-filled water sports activities out of which kayaking holds a special place. The waters off the west coast should be where one must go to in order to get the very best of kayaking experiences. One must be watchful so as to not get caught up with any ocean current for it is quite a battle to come out of. Areas such as Koh Ma and Wok Tum are the best places to start at while a trip to Haad Thian, Thong Nai Pan and Bottle Beach would certainly prove to be worth the trip. Be sure to not head out during the latter part of the day for the seas could make it extremely arduous to get back to shore.
Finding your Way
Koh Phangan, off the coast of southern Thailand is known for its idyllic bays, beaches and coves and the tropical landscape in its centre that is part coconut plantation and undisturbed stretches of rainforest. These natural features provide interesting jungle and beach walks.
Hiking is possible all over the island and there are many interesting trails. The central part of the island with its tropical canopy has barely visible mountain paths that are popular with hikers as are trails on the eastern part of the island that is still relatively underdeveloped. One popular trail runs from Haad Rin north to Haad Yuan on to Haad Thien, up to Thong Nai Pan and onto Haad Khuat or Bottle Beach. The route can become difficult in some spots and there is always the possibility of getting lost. An alternative is to ride a motorbike to the end of the concrete road at Haad Khom and then hike through the jungle and steep terrain to Bottle Beach. On the return, hikers can ride back to Chalok Lam in a taxi boat, take a 30 minute walk uphill to Haad Khom to pick up the bike or walk all the way from Chalok Lam. There is a good hike up to Phaeng waterfall in Phaeng National Park that is a steep 250 meter climb up a jungle trail. Walking up hill for about 15 minutes more takes hikers to Domesila look out that offers fantastic views. Khao Ra viewpoint, at 600 meters the highest hill on the island, can be accessed if hikers continue on this trail. The trail can be dangerous and difficult to follow. However there are GPS tracks to Khao Ra. Two trails lead to the top. The eastern trail seems to have fallen into disuse. This is a beautiful trail through jungle with big trees and waterfalls. The western trail goes through a cloud forest towards the top. Other interesting hikes to attempt is walking up 3 km, the full length of the Thaan Sadet waterfall in the north eastern part of the island as it is like a series of stepping stones. Thaan Prawet waterfall also in the north eastern part can be accessed from Thong Nai Pan Noi beach but the climb gets tougher as the trail moves further up. Several lovely spots on the way offer places to cool off and to take breaks. Wat Khao Tam lookout between Thong Sala and Haad Rin can be accessed via motorbike ride part of the way after which a short hike takes visitors up to the temple and the look out. Another interesting hike is to the lookout at Chalok Lam on the road to Haad Khom.
Things to remember when hiking, carry enough water and wear bug repellant, carry a GPS and map and return before sunset.
Savour the informal relaxing vibe at Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa that offers an idyllic tropical getaway complete with palm trees, stretches of white sandy beach and blue sea. As one of prominent Koh Phangan hotels guests have a choice of accommodation comprising of suites and villas all with plunge pools and private spaces, the best places to start a laid back holiday experience. As one of much lauded Koh Phangan resorts all those who stay here will experience services and facilities that are considered amazing and go a long way to make that perfect holiday experience.
Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari
If you are in Auckland and you are craving a bout of communion with the most impressive citizens of the deep, whales and dolphins, take a cruise on the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park to watch these amazing beings frolic just a few feet away from you. Make a marine tour part of your excursion at a stylish Auckland hotel such as the Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City. With a central location, it is an excellent hotel Auckland CBD to host your stay in the city, whether you’re here for business or leisure. Embark on a fun whale and dolphin safari to get up close and personal with the amazing citizens of the Hauraki Gulf. You will travel onboard a stylish Dolphin Explorer and you will be guaranteed a sighting, with a 75% view rate thus far. The Hauraki Gulf is a national maritime park that boasts a diversity of geographic and biological proportions, with an excess of 25 of the region’s 37 marine mammals being spotted here. This hefty number makes up nearly a third of the globe’s total species population. So flee the tiring confines of the city and relax on board an expedient cruise ship, and let your heart and mind soar as you witness the dolphins frolicking and playing by the prow of the vessel, and keep your eyes peeled for the telltale fan spray that signals the presence of whales.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.
Desert Biking
How about speeding across the golden sand dunes of Oman on board a bike? Seem interesting? Travel to Oman and experience the thrills and spills of desert biking that will give you a whole new perspective of a holiday in this country. Choose the luxury of a hotel in Oman that will be more than happy to assist you in planning your day’s journeys. Desert Nights Camp which comes across as one of the most sought after of Oman hotels would be a great place to come home to after a day out in the searing heat.
Go over the dunes at breakneck speed on your bike which is part of quad biking which is the term by which such an activity is referred to. Weave your way through the twists and turns that are sure to leave you covered in the golden sands of Oman. Leave the comfort of your hotel and savour the joy of this engaging experience that is bathed in hours of excitement and adrenaline. The seemingly infinite sands would pose the greatest of challenge to those looking for a different twist to their holiday in the charming surroundings of Oman. So what’s stopping you from grabbing the nearest quad bike and beginning an adventure you would always want to come back to.
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. Google+