Activities - The Adventure Travel Site

Qingdao Olympic Theme Park

Qingdao is a lively port city located on China’s eastern coast and one of its most iconic locales is the Qingdao Olympic Theme Park, an Olympic memorabilia haven. To discover more of the city’s fascinating sights, park yourself at a Qingdao hotel such as the Copthorne Hotel Qingdao which offers you convenient transport links to the theme park as well as other intriguing attractions. Featuring luxury interiors and stellar hospitality, this quality hotel in Qingdao is the perfect option for holiday-makers and executive visitors alike. Without a doubt, Qingdao is synonymous with Tsingtao Brewery, but visitors can also enjoy fresh Tsingtao brews at the Beer Garden at Qingdao Olympic Theme Park at the Beer Garden. This unique pub offers you the chance to sip a cool pint whilst soaking in the Olympic spirit and enjoying a game or competition featured on the large TVs at this friendly venue with a distinctive sports bar feel. Ensconced within the Olympic Sailing Centre is the Olympic Theme Park, where visitors can participate in various activities that summon the camaraderie and grandeur of the world’s most famous international sports competition. A prominent feature in the park is the Olympic Torch, extending tall and proud to an impressive 6 metres, and flanked by the Olympic and national flags on two sides, which makes it a popular tourist spot to click a few memories to take home. The park also offers a variety of interactive Olympic features, and kids will enjoy partaking in the tennis and table tennis computer romps. Or don the Olympic uniform and gold medal to stand on the podium to the roaring millions cheering your victory. Many visitors feel the spirit of an Olympic win at this feature, and it always boasts long lines so get there early and be prepared to wait your victory. The park is also home to an international sculpture tour exhibition, which has toured cities across the globe, and its prestigious creations are a glorious sight to behold, featuring more than 100 pieces from 90 names around the world.

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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Minneriya National Park

Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1938 and then upgraded to a Wildlife Park in 1997, Minneriya National Park houses the historic Minneriya reservoir that dates from the 3rd century CE. During the area’s dry season, the park is a very special place as elephant herds from Matale, Trincomalee and Polonnaruwa districts come to enjoy grazing and quenching their thirst here. Together with two other reservoirs close to the park, Minneriya forms one of Important Bird Areas in Sri Lanka.

While the park’s diverse range of large and small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish and butterflies is undoubtedly interesting to all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the most iconic attraction is the large number of elephants that congregate here, which is known as the ‘ elephant gathering’ and this is globally celebrated as one of the largest gatherings of mammals, specifically Asian Elephants, in the wild. The magnet that sets off this seasonal movement of elephants is the succulent grasses on the dry parts of the reservoir bed and the easy access to water. The ‘gathering’ takes place from mid-July and lasts until end-October, but peaks in August and September. The best time to view the elephants is in the evening when they emerge from the surrounding jungle in little groups that slowly forms a large herd that is sometimes said to number 300. Not only can visitors have a rare sighting of elephants in family groups, but they are also seen at their natural best, gamboling and cavorting in the water.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the park’s other attractions, endemic species such as the purple-faced langur and toque macaque, the Sri Lankan leopard, the Sri Lankan sloth bear, the gray slender loris and many other endangered and endemic species that are the park’s other inhabitants are of interest as well. For fervent birders, the host of large water birds as well as migrants and many residents that are found in and around the Minneriya reservoir makes a visit here truly worthwhile. Flocks of cormorants, pelicans, grey herons and other water birds are busy foraging for food around the water while jungle fowl, parrots, babblers, bulbuls and other endemic varieties favour the forest and scrub areas around the reservoir. Crocodiles, pythons and water monitors are among the reptiles that prey on the animals coming to the reservoir for water. Combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, viewing the wildlife in the park is truly an exceptional experience.

To discover these and more natural treasures on the island, take advantage of some well-tailored holiday packages Sri Lanka has to offer its visitors for a stimulating and pleasurable travel experience. Shanti Travel Sri Lanka is a renowned travel company, which offers some competitive Sri Lanka tour packages that enable visitors to explore the country’s culture, heritage and the beauty of its landscapes.

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 hopes to visit them all someday.

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Siam Park City

The city of Bangkok enjoys a prestigious reputation as Thailand’s resplendent capital city, richly saturated with history and gleaming with the five-star status of an international metropolis. Business or pleasure – whatever brings you to the city will be enhanced when you invest in one of the world-class Sukhumvit apartments featured at the exclusive Somerset Sukhumvit Thonglor Bangkok. Situated in the stylish Sukhumvit district, this quality example of accommodation Bangkok has to offer its visitors aims to pamper and pleasure all guests. To make the most of a stay here, visit the vibrant Siam Park City, the city’s oldest theme park that boasts the world’s largest man-made beach in the form of its magnificent wave-pool, which has earned accolades and a Guinness World Record. Boasting some of the largest rides in the region, the park sees annual visitors in excess of 2 million, all craving some theme park fun with family and friends. Sprawling over 120 hectares, it is the largest theme and water park in the Southeast Asian region. The park’s four regions, Fantasy World, X-Zone, Family World and Small World ensure complete enjoyment for people of all ages. Get the heart pumping with the Vortex, Log Flume, Giant Drop, Top Spin and Mega Dance, to name a few options for adrenaline junkies. Take a boat or trip journey into the heart of Africa, where you’ll see animatronic tigers and elephants as well as King Kong, or embark on a Jurassic jeep ride and discover the fascinating dinosaurs that used to populate the world. For a few intense splashes, ride Talay Krung Thep, the world’s largest wave pool with waterfalls and rock pools, or laze away on the Lazy River, which flows through the entire park. Guaranteeing hours of fun for the whole family, Siam Park City is a must-visit site in Bangkok.

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Sand Boarding

Sand boarding is almost exactly like snowboarding except that it is done in the desert instead of snow-topped mountains. Although not as popular as snowboarding, sand boarding is quickly catching on as a fun recreational activity. It is a highly thrilling sport and riders can reach speeds in excess of sixty miles per hour, all on a simple board made out of fibre glass and wood. Unlike snowboarding, one can go sand boarding at any time of the year and good locations are easier to find. After all, it can be carried out at any place with large dunes, be it a desert or a beach.

Those interested in trying out the sport should try the Middle East region. It is, aptly enough, one of the best places in the world to try out this adventure sport. Although popular in countries throughout the Middle East, sand boarding has found a special place in Oman. The most popular spots in the country are the Bousher Dunes in Muscat and the Wahiba Sands in Sifah. One need not be an expert to ride here as there are dunes of different sizes and inclines found here.

Other popular activities in Oman include quad biking, dune bashing, mountain climbing and desert trekking. Dune bashing is an activity where people drive around sand dunes in four wheel drive trucks – it is a little scarier than it sounds as some dunes can be quite steep. Tourists visiting Oman should also think of taking a safari on camel back and spending a night at a Bedouin camp. Staying at a Bedouin camp is the best way to experience the desert at night and enjoy the famous Arabian hospitality.

There are many places in Oman that provide facilities for adventure desert activities. However, one can minimise the hassles of finding a good one by staying at proper Oman hotels that already come with such facilities. The Desert Nights Camp is one such hotel in Oman that provides facilities for a variety of desert-related activities such as trekking and quad biking. The accommodation on offer is stellar and guests get to sleep in large Arabian-styled tents that come with air conditioning. It is truly an excellent place to stay.

Maldives Parasailing Adventures

Made up of more than a thousand tiny coral islets the island paradise of Maldives is a beach holiday lover’s dream come true in Asia. With its crystal clear oceans littered with stunning tropical islands and its ocean floors covered in breathtaking coral reefs, one could hardly conceive of a more suitable location for engaging excursions the likes of island hopping tours and diving expeditions. But there is another more recently introduced sporting activity that is gaining traction among frequent visitors to the island and that is the water sport known as parasailing.

Offering visitors a truly unique perspective of the paradise isles and its boundless natural beauty a parasailing excursion is an activity that is open to tourists of all fitness levels. Most resorts on the archipelago provide parasailing facilities, gear and even offer lessons for those who are new to the sport. All one needs is a healthy sense of adventure and no fear of heights as the soaring experience takes visitors to awe inspiring heights fuelled by the strong gusts of wind that are prevalent in the Maldives for most of the year.

The fundamentals of parasailing include tugging along a parachute fastened participant wearing skis that glide along the water before soaring several hundreds of feet above the water to witness truly spectacular views of the surroundings. The super fast speed boats begin at a regular pace before accelerating their speed to reach the correct conditions for parasailing activities. The participants in turn glide along the water surface at first and then soar to the sky with the aid of the wind aerating their parachutes and the speed of the boat. Couples can go parasailing together and enjoy a romantic experience akin to flying above the ocean floor while single individuals can either parasail solo or partner up with a fellow tourist for company.

Those taking part in parasailing can expect to see coral islands and resorts for miles around on this brief aerial tour which affords panoramic views of the Maldives from a truly unique vantage point, suspended above the ocean waters.

Travellers in search of quality accommodation in Maldives will find no finer alternative to the living space at Anantara Dhigu Maldives. Offering guests a variety of stylish guestrooms with contemporary amenities this Maldives resort is perfectly suited for both holidaymakers and those on business.

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.

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Seaplane Photo Flights

While parasailing may provide a thrilling view of Maldives from up high, those looking for a truly spectacular bird’s eye view of the islands should look to take seaplane photo flights. Travellers in search of luxury hotels Maldives has to offer that will help to organise such excursions can stay at Kurumba Maldives. One of the leading Maldives resorts it features luxurious accommodation and lets you enjoy unforgettable views by seaplane of the North Male Atoll.

Since seaplanes can take off and land on water, you have a great opportunity to view these islands from rather unique vantage points. On your journey of discovery you will get a chance to enjoy a whole new perspective of the dazzling blues that abound as far as the eyes can see. On this tour you can observe the rich tapestry of nature that is the Maldives; coral formations beneath the waves, scenic lagoons, idyllic stretches of beach drenched in the sun and if you are luck, even glimpse dolphins playfully frolicking in the waters.

Enjoying Thrilling Water Sports in Galle

Sri Lanka’s South Coast has gained fame the world over not only for its golden sand beaches, but also for the exciting water sports it offers that provide plenty of fun in the sun. Galle is one of the most visited destination here and one where you can experience a variety of such activities. Those in search of Galle resorts from which to visit these coastal areas can stay at Jetwing Kurulubedda. Featuring elegant villas in Galle it provides a tranquil escape from which to head off on your excursions.

One of the best beaches that one can visit when exploring Galle is undoubtedly Hikkaduwa which is a popular haunt amongst water sport enthusiasts. Snorkelling is an activity that lets you discover the breathtaking underwater world that lies under the waves here, while diving also affords plenty of opportunity for a deep sea adventure. Do not miss a visit to Unawatuna beach which is a popular spot for such water sports as surfing which provides a thrilling way to ride the waves.

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.

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Rumassala Mountain Hike

If you love the great outdoors and are looking for adventure when heading to the Southern area of Sri Lanka, then make sure to plan a hike up Rumassala Mountain. This picturesque natural site can be found within easy reach of the Galle harbour and those in search of well placed Galle hotels to stay at can consider Jetwing Lighthouse. One of the leading hotels in Galle, it offers a luxurious home away from home in this famous Southern city.

Plan a visit to Rumassala Mountain where one can engage in a hike, set amidst stunning vistas. The mountain which also goes by the name ‘Buona Vista’ is associated with several legends and provides a fascinating day out in nature. The area in and around Rumassala is home to a rich biodiversity and as you explore and hike up the mountain you will across a variety of endemic species be it flora or fauna. It is not uncommon to see monkeys in the trees and birdwatchers may even catch a glimpse of a white-bellied sea eagle. At the summit one will find a Buddhist dagoba known as the Peace Pagoda along with a statute of the monkey god, Hanuman who is tied in with one of the legends of Rumassala. Best of all is the breathtaking view of Galle Bay that awaits those making their way to the top.

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.

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Ocean Park, Manila

With so much to offer, Manila is indeed one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. In fact Manila is the capital and the second largest city in the Philippines. Located on the eastern shore of Manila Bay, the city contains several famous attractions including cultural heritage landmarks and shopping hotspots. The Manila Ocean Park is one such amazing attraction. It is the country’s first world class marine theme park that also has a premiere educational facility.

This great Ocean Park is also popular as an all-year, all-weather destination for locals and tourists. Offering a vast range of activities Ocean Park has categorised its shows. The one called the Oceanarium which houses over 5000 marine creatures is a must see feature in the park. It is open all week and even on holidays. “Trails to Antarctica” is another amazing feature, being the first and the only penguin park in the country. If you go to the Ocean Park you could also enjoy a mesmerising underwater walk exploring the marine life. If you are a shark lover there is an indoor aquarium that would allow you to capture these magnificent sea creatures in the safety of a metal cage under the guidance of experts.

Jellies exhibit is yet another all time favourite among everybody. They showcase various jelly fish and the beauty heightens with a fascinating display of multimedia effects and breathtaking music. That is not all! The Ocean Park swimming pool facing the Manila Bay strip is open for all to have a refreshing dip and plenty of fun.

Ocean Park also offers a children’s play area equipped with sea themed carousels, laser bumper cars and adventure arcade games making it a heavenly place for little ones. For adults the Fish Spa is an ultimate treat. Enjoy a relaxing moment while the fish remove the dead cells from your tired feet, leaving you with glowing skin. Last but not least the newest attraction in this marvellous Ocean Park is the “Birds of Prey” featuring winged creatures. There are various restaurants and a shopping mall to make your holiday just perfect.

If you are looking to reside in while you enjoy the unique experience the Ocean Park offers you are in luck for there is a vast array of serviced accommodation manila. A good option would be choosing one of the manila apartments which will cater to your travel requirements perfectly. Somerset Olympia Makati is an ideal place to indulge in that offers unparalleled comfort and security. It is also very convenient as it is located in the heart of Manila’s central business district. This would definitely be a journey you would never forget.

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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Blanco Renaissance Museum

The Ubud region in Bali is home to a decadent array of unique cultural treasures undiscovered anywhere else in the world. For a true immersion into authentic Ubud culture, a visitor should invest in Ubud accommodation that blends the best of traditional and international trappings for a superb example of Balinese hospitality. The Alila Ubud is an elegantly-appointed property that serves its guests with the contemporary amenities set within traditional interiors for a one-of-a-kind Ubud hotel experience. No visit to Ubud is complete without a tour of the iconic Blanco Renaissance museum, a cultural coalescence that takes place at the confluence of two sacred rivers. The museum captures the life of one of Bali’s most famous expats, Don Antonio Blanco, whose unique paintings that drew from a European heritage to effectively evoke Balinese subjects, made him a household name in Bali, and in fact, in the entire country. A Spaniard brought up in Manilla, who was educated in the United Sates, and later married and settled down in Indonesia, Don Blanco was Manila’s original poster child for diversity. His paintings drew from his fascination with the female form and his exquisite paintings are an intriguing mix of fantasy and erotica designed to enchant the mind and titillate the senses. The museum mansion was built to capture Don Blanco’s love for Bali and it is a true work of esoteric art in and of itself, as it is a spiritual fantasyland that employs elements from Balinese spirituality. Two winding marble staircases represent the apparent duality of the world, and three floors representing the earthly realm, the middle realm and the heavens provide a playground for gods, humans and beasts. The topmost floor rightly holds all of Don Blanco’s artwork while the second showcases his poetry. The mansion’s interiors are ornate in nature and are windowless, although a spectacular stained-glass dome draws in ample amounts of natural light. The mansion complex also boasts beautiful manicured gardens and even a gorgeous family temple contained within the complex. Visitors can marvel at the paintings hung for display, purchase some souvenirs and knick-knacks at the quaint little boutique, and later on, grab a delicious bite at the onsite café that serves a blend of exquisite European and Asian cuisine. An exquisite feast for the senses, this renaissance museum is guaranteed to mesmerize you in body, mind and soul.

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