Category: Activities

Off Road Driving

A tour of the United Arab Emirates is not complete without experiencing authentic desert life. The rolling sands that comprise the glittering golden landscape of the Middle East pose immense significance to the nations of the UAE, beyond being exquisite to admire and capture through the lens. The many dunes that make up the UAE afford an array of off-road fun that range from driving to simply rolling down the soft slopes.

The popularity of the dunes among the many visitors to the island gave rise to an array of ‘Desert experience’ packages. Now, from the heart of the city, you can rent your own four-wheel drive vehicles and get yourself a tour guide and experience the thrill of indulging in a variety of exciting desert activities. Of all the types of fun desert excursions one can indulge in, the most simple yet most thrilling activity is off road driving. Driving off road is absolute fun despite all the humps and bumps. In fact it is perhaps the turbulence that truly adds the spice to this activity. A word of caution: avoid large meals prior to chaotic off-roading in the desert.

One of the most popular off-road driving destinations is the massive Empty Quarter. These huge dunes present a fantastic driving challenge and is a must experience feature here if you are in town during the cooler months of the year. In the summer, the heat soars to absolutely scorching heights. There are plenty of 4 wheel drives that can be hired with or without a guide and all you should make sure is that it is insured for off-road riding. Company is important when you are wandering off into the desert. A good 2, 3 jeeps along with yours and you are all good to go. Off road driving is excellent as a group activity. If you are going driving without a guide, it is important that you first get the hang of the ropes of the desert from one of the many tour companies in Abu Dhabi. They will provide you with the right tips for the skill and equipment that you would need to enjoy your adventure.

While exploring UAE and all its wonders, consider a stay at the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi. Offering gracious hospitality and charming surrounds, this luxury choice of hotel in Abu Dhabi presents a fine option of five star accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer its corporate and leisure visitors.

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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Flying Down the Dunes

Sand boarding and skiing has added a whole new dimension to two sports once limited to areas with snow. Once adrenaline junkies found that snow boards and skis could be used on smooth sandy surfaces with the same effect there was no stopping them. Now there are several keen followers of these sports who regularly sand board and ski where there are impressive dune formations. Towering sand dunes in the Liwa Oasis bordering the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi are popular both with sand boarders and sand skiers.

Where ever there are dunes or a considerable build up of sand there are sand boarders who want to swish down their sides and experience an adrenaline rush. Sand boarders ride across or down a dune with their feet strapped to a board although some daring and more experienced types ride without the straps. Unlike snow boarders sand boarders don’t have the advantage of being taken to the top of a dune by a lift. They generally have to clamber up the dune themselves or use an ATV or a dune buggy. Sand boarding is enjoyed by enthusiasts throughout the year in desert climates where there is plenty of sand and of course dunes. The board used for sand boarding is much harder than a snow board and it has to be waxed prior to use to make the board glide. On steeper dunes snow boards are also used.

Abu Dhabi’s sand dunes towering several hundred meters above the surrounding area are ideal for sand skiing enthusiasts. Novice sand skiers are advised to start on the smaller slopes prior to attempting the 300 meter high Liwa dunes. Other than in the cooler months the best times to both sand board and ski are the early mornings. A thick layer of sunscreen, light clothing covering most parts of the body and sun glasses is advised when taking to these sports. Additionally it is better to have basic lessons on how to stay up and fall properly and safely before attempting the dunes. Children too can try but on the lower slopes and a plastic sledge will afford them a great deal of pleasure flying down the ‘nursery slopes’.

On Sir Bani Yas Island just off the coast of Abu Dhabi in the Arabian Gulf Desert Island Resort & Spa by Anantara not only offers an extraordinary location but some of the most luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas from where guests can explore the beautiful natural environment around this Abu Dhabi resort. Food is one of the experiences here where guest get to taste a variety of local and international cuisines, the other is the amazing landscape which can be enjoyed via kayaking trips, mountain biking, trekking, on safari and on horseback. As one of Abu Dhabi beach hotels guests have access to several water sports among which are special diving and snorkeling packages.

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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Drive Jebel Hafeet

Towering high over the plains of Al Ain, the Jebel Hafeet stands proud as the tallest peak in the entire Emirate. There is a rugged beauty about Jebel Hafeet; its surface red and raw is the evidence of its endurance. The chiselled edges of the Jebel Hafeet gives it sheer majesty, the mere sight of which will leave you in awe and will give you an authentic taste of the desert side of the United Arab Emirates.

The Middle East in general is known for its excellent roadways, the United Arab Emirates in particular tops this list boasting fantastic automobiles and smooth carpeted roads. Driving is such a pleasure in the UAE and the blissful desert scenery in the outskirts of the city is a real pleasure to savor. One fantastic location to experience the bliss of driving is the Jebel Hafeet. The Jebel Hafeet rises just over 1200 meters above sea level and has winding roads that adorn all sides of the mountain. The best part about these mountain roads are that they are wide and comfortable to ride on. The many bends that come with this road makes a drive to the top of Jebel Hafeet both fun and adventurous.

The Jebel Hafeet is exotic; every inch of this mountain has beauty to savour. It is built out of craggy limestone that has stood tall over millions of years weathering the harsh climatic conditions of the desert side of UAE. The many rains and scorching suns have shaped Jebel Hafeet to what is today a symbol of artistic magnificence in the UAE. In addition to all its beauty the mountain is also a historically significant location. It holds the heart of the world’s past and several important fossils have been discovered here including over 500 ancient burial tombs that date back over 5000 years.

Once you reach the top of the mountain you will be rewarded by unmatched beauty, sceneries that will take your breath away and magnificent bird’s eye views of Al Ain. After an adventurous day at the peak, come home to the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This Abu Dhabi resort is the finest of all the Abu Dhabi beach hotels.

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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Outdoor things to do in Maldives

Maldives is a spectacular tourist destination since there are so many fun activities you can do when you visit. The most popular activities are the outdoor adventures like diving, snorkelling and exploring the reefs around the island. Throughout the year Maldives waters are warm and clear so it is ideal for exploration. There are over 1000 different types of species that dwell in the sea and you could see them, swim amongst them and observe the wonderful corals embedded on the reef. Diving lessons and packages are easy to come by when in the area. There are a number of agents and companies that are willing to rent diving equipment and to teach you how to navigate through the waters. The best thing is that you do not need to be a professional diver to enjoy an expedition underwater; snorkelling is one of the easiest activities which you can learn and master while you are in the country.


You could also take part in an island excursion and travel to one of the local islands. A visit to the local islands will expose you to the unique Maldivian culture and cuisine which is a very gratifying experience. The island culture and lifestyle in Maldives is influenced by fishing. The fishing community has their own stories and folk tales; their heroic adventures out at sea are fascinating. Maldivian people are extremely friendly and hospitable and they always welcome you to listen to their stories and share a meal. The key ingredients in all of the dishes are coconut, rice and seafood. When you visit a local island you should taste some local cuisine for it is quite simply delicious.


Maldives is also a great destination for visitors who want to relax and detoxify. There are so many spas; wellness centres and massage clinics that will help one unwind. The traditional healing methods are perfect to ease stress and anxiety. Try out Gandhakolhi leaf treatments and those remedies offered at Hakeembe as these are authentic therapy sessions which one can only find in the Maldives. For all-inclusive vacation deals stay at a Maldives resort. There is a variety of hotels which provides accommodation in Maldives so one will find it easy to book a room which fits one’s budget. Anantara Dhigu Maldives is a great place to spend your vacation for the rooms are luxurious and the hotel offers various tours and spa treatments for their guests.

Kandooma Thila Diving Site

Located close to the South Male Atoll is a popular site with divers: the Kandooma Thila, with an exciting descent and abundant marine life that is sure to be a treat to capture from behind the lens. It’s best if you check into one of the fine Maldives resorts that will make this dive happen with all the logistical details taken care of, from setting you up with diving equipment to a dive guide who will walk you through the process for optimum safety. One of the best luxury hotels Maldives has on offer is the Kurumba Maldives which specializes in organizing all manner of underwater excursions for a truly unforgettable vacation. Venture into the tar-drop shaped Kandooma Thila and discover another world of underwater delights. Heralded as one of the most exciting dives in the South Male Atoll, its western and northern section afford the most stunning views, toping at 16 metres. Jack corner, the northwestern niche, features a cave at a depth of 23 metres chock full of soft coral, populated by dreamy-eyed trevally, startling red bass, elegant tunas and fearsome barracudas. On the western corner, you’ll encounter several large rock outcrops carpeted by brightly-hued soft corals. Keep your eyes peeled for reef sharks and eagle rays, and the site’s highlight: large green turtles peacefully swimming along the reef’s edge.

 

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.

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Abu Dhabi Motorsports

How about making a date with the magic of Abu Dhabi’s motor sports experience? To savour the thrills of the area’s motorsports, why not choose the comfort of an Abu Dhabi hotel from where you could be based at? Grand Millennium Al Wahda which comes across as a hotel Abu Dhabi UAE has to offer would prove to be a good choice.

Amongst the many treats that racing fans the world over may be able to partake of while in the area, none quite adds up to the excitement of the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which hosted at the famed Yas Marina Circuit. Seen as one of the most eye-catching of sporting pageants in the area, visitors can see their favourite race car drivers battle it out on track for supremacy. Additionally go-karters can try out the 1.4 km raceway of the Al Ain Sportplex to hone their skills in go-karting. Up and coming racers can showcase their skills at one of the four demanding tracks of Al Forsan. Whatever skill level, Abu Dhabi certainly has everyone well taken care of.

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+

Deep Sea Adventure Dubai

While Dubai may be a place known for its stunning deserts, it also offers plenty of deep sea adventures in the UAE. Before setting off to explore the world beneath the waves, make sure you find well placed accommodation from which to head out on your travels. Grand Millennium Dubai is such a Dubai luxury hotel which is only around a 10 minute drive from the beach. It is one of the leading 5 star hotels Dubai has to offer and provides luxurious accommodation and a range of contemporary comforts too.

Intrepid travellers heading to Dubai can plan excursions to the waters of the Arabian Gulf where you can embark on an exciting journey of discovery. One of the best activities to indulge in here is deep sea fishing. The waters around Dubai are a hotspot for sailfish, while you also have a chance to catch species such as barracuda, kingfish, catfish and tuna on your fishing excursions. Not to be missed is a chance to go scuba diving which gives you plenty of opportunities to explore the Arabian Gulf and view its diverse marine life. One can also plan to explore several of the deep sea wrecks in the region including the Zainab, Hopper Barge and Cement Barge, offering a unique adventure in the deep.

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+

Oman Adventures

Happen to be travelling to Oman? Then you must take time to pay a visit at the numerous attractions that scatter the area. Looking for a Muscat hotel to stay at? Look no further than the Millennium Resort Mussanah which comes across as an Oman Muscat hotel that offers you affordable accommodation and easy access to the country’s tourist hotspots.

The forts in Oman stand testament to the country’s rich and glorious past and are sure to entice all you history buffs for a day out in the Omani sunshine. Nakhal Fort is one such edifice that dates back to the reign of Imam Said bin Sultan in 1834 A.D. Discover the intricate features of its architecture as the fort also comprises of certain portions of rock. Nestled amidst iconic mountain peaks and palm orchards, Nakhal Fort is an experience you do not want to miss out on. Rustaq’s Al Hazam Castle with its hidden passes and dungeons will offer you an essence of Oman military. Be awed by daggers, swords and guns on display but the most striking feature perhaps are the two wooden gates which have been carefully crafted. For those in the mood for water sports, the country never fails to disappoint. Daymaniyat Islands is where one should be heading over to if one seeks some snorkelling. Its coral reefs are home to moray eels, barracudas, clown fish and even hawksbill turtles that make for pleasant viewing.

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+

Sailing in Oman

Sailing has been a favourite pastime of the Omanis for centuries, a valued and treasured heritage that has been their pride and joy. Try an Oman Muscat hotel to get the most of this Omani experience. The most recommended would be a Muscat hotel such as the Millennium Resort Mussanah of which the reputation precedes it. As a means of rekindling the proud maritime heritage of the Omanis, their Ministry of Tourism has introduce Oman Sail, an initiative that aims to encourage the current Omani generations to indulge in this national pastime. Historically a seafaring nation, it is easy to see why the wide open ocean has so many allures for Oman. It is hard not to launch oneself across the waters picturesque coastline facing the Gulf of Oman and the glistening Arabian Sea as it lies beckoning the lovers of the sea to its bosom. Sailing is also a favourite pastime of visitors who visit Oman as it is easy to see that they too tap in well into the irresistible call of the sea.

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

Bicycle Around Ubud

Tucked away amidst stunning countryside scenery and charming rustic villages, Ubud is an idyllic getaway which is also a great place to embark on cycling excursions. Travellers planning to visit the region and in search of Bali resorts from which to head off on cycling tours can consider staying at Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. One of the leading Uluwatu hotels, it provides an ideal base from which to set off on your adventures and offers cycle tours as well.

You can plan a bicycle excursion to Ubud where one can use some good old fashioned pedal power to travel around the countryside. An ideal way to head off the beaten track, these trips are best undertaken with a tour guide who will guide you to some of the best locations. Passing lush paddy fields, ancient temples and traditional villages, such excursions give one the chance to enjoy an authentic holiday adventure and mingle with locals as well. Part of the joy of cycling in Ubud is the chance to visit Ubud village where one will find craftsmen engaged in traditional arts and crafts.

 

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+