Each night Singapore transforms itself into a nocturnal playground and one of the best ways to experience this nightlife is by staying at 5 star hotels Singapore has to offer. The St. Regis Singapore which enjoys an enviable position on Orchard Road, surrounded by the city’s happening nightlife scene, is one such example and is amongst the premier luxury hotels Singapore proudly calls its own. One of the best nightlife activities that can be enjoyed here is to embark on a Singapore Night Safari. The first nocturnal zoo in the world, this family friendly attraction takes visitors on an unforgettable adventure, bringing you into contact with a wide variety of animals ranging from fishing cats to tigers. Spread across an area of around 40 hectares, this safari gives you a unique opportunity to view animals in a night time setting amidst enclosures which have been made to resemble their natural homes. Part of the safari includes cultural shows which add to the exotic nature of this popular attraction.
Category: Activities
Kitesurf in Vietnam’s Surf Central Mui Ne
Having grown into form a quiet spot of beach near a quaint fishing village to a thriving tourist Mecca in less than two decades Vietnam’s Mui Ne Bay is a tried and true success story in the country’s touristic landscape. Boasting stretches of white, powdery beaches and ideal weather conditions for a variety of water sports this one stop beach Mecca is suited for any type of traveler and budget as any genuine tourist hotpots must be. Mui Ne also enjoys the rare honor of being one of Asia’s premier windsurfing venues with ideal conditions for both beginner and seasoned surfers during the months from November to March every year. The period between October and April are equally conducive to the thrilling sporting activity although the number of windy days may be slightly lesser than those prevalent during the peak season.
The morning hours are known for exhibiting light gusts of winds ranging from 10 to 15 knots and the thermal wind gradually climbing throughout the daytime to its peak strength two hours after midday. The afternoon however boasts gusts of wind over 20 knots and can even reach in excess of 25 knots where 7m kites are not only welcome but a must-have at this time of the day. Mui Ne Bay’s soft beaches are perfect for launching as well as a comfortable landing with cross-onshore wind direction also making the venue ideal for first time surfers. Professional kite surfers will also find water settings to suite wave riders with flat waters and brilliant downwinders throughout the day. Those looking for secluded patches along the bay can head down to Malibu Beach also known as the Wave Spot where advanced level surfers take to the seas in a less crowded region of the bay.
Kitesurfing tours are also available for groups as small as six and as large as 14 surfers from local tour operators who take guests to the best kite surfing areas in Mui Ne on a tour that can last up to 2 days or more depending on the personal preference of participants. A number of kitesurfing schools have also propped up along the beach for the convenience of novices and guests can get a complete course in the adventure sport with the assistance of a Beach Boy for a daily fee.
Travellers in search of a luxury resort in Mui Ne should look no further than the Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa. Providing guests with a breathtaking hideaway in one of the country’s most idyllic corners this Vietnam hotel pulls out all the stops when it comes to vacationing in paradise.
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.
Elephant Back Safari
The island of Sri Lanka is home to an exotic array of wildlife that can be experienced by choosing Sri Lanka tour packages that take you to the country’s national parks. Such holiday packages Sri Lanka can be organised with Shanti Travel which provides tours that lets you appreciate the island’s stunning natural biodiversity. A unique way of engaging in 
some distinctive sightseeing is by taking an elephant back safari which lets you ride this majestic beast into the wilds! As you ride through the jungle you will be able to see a wide range of birds and other species amidst breathtaking landscapes. Taking place in such areas as Habarana, Kaudulla and Sigiriya, some elephant back safaris also let you bathe and feed these gentle giants.
Indoor rock climbing in shanghai
The world class city of Shanghai is famous for its excellent infrastructure and boasts a multitude of attractions. Choose a hotel in Shanghai such as The Langham Yangtze Boutique Shanghai, an exceptional 5 star hotel Shanghai has to offer. It comes as no surprise to any travellers that Shanghai is not a palace rich in natural wonders, thus certain activities may seem impossible here. However, for the pleasure of thrill seekers, indoor rock climbing has been made available. Head over to the Shanghai Stadium Sports Center with your rock-climbing shoes on. Here a range of artificial climbing walls can be found catering to intermediate level climbers and novic
Explore Paradise Found on Engaging Samui Island Tours
Abound with a million possibilities vacationers will have more than their fair share to write home about when exploring the holiday powerhouse that is Koh Samui. Renowned as one of Thailand’s most popular tourist havens the palm fringed environs of this idyllic piece of paradise guarantees holidaymakers in search of something more than a beach vacation an unforgettable cultural and retail experience as well. The myriad of excursions available to visitors are tailor made to fit every kind of traveller and interest with engage activities thrown in to the mix.
Shopaholics will find bargains galore on a shopping tour of Koh Samui as central Chaweng Beach is a veritable hotspot for shoppers during night time. Selling everything from beachwear to quirky local curios this bustling shopper’s hub packs in the best of Samui’s retail potential in to one thriving local market. Those in search of authentic Thai goods on the other hand can head to town where stunning Thai silks, grand teak furnishings, hand crafted art work and hand knitter cotton garbs are found. Jewellery and textiles are available at unbeatable prices while tourists scouring for souvenirs to take back home will also find plenty of options at every turn.
Culture buffs can take a tour of Samui’s captivating ancient religious edifices on a temple tour that explores the island’s cultural and spiritual identity. Some of the highlights include the Big Buddha Temple where guests can watch monks perform daily rituals and observances. The striking sculpture of Lord Buddha adorned with 18 arms at Wat Plai Laem is equally engaging as the towering statue lies at the heart of a lake. Fortunes are read out on fortune sticks as blessings are benevolently bestowed on all who engage in this interactive exploration of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage.
Golf fans can tee off with the best in the island at the Santiburi Country Club which boasts an 18 hole par 72 course with oceanic views in all directions. Island hoppers can also explore the landscapes of Samui on a 4 wheel drive across the rainforest and uncover wilder side of the island with its native animal populace and inland geographical treasures. Those who prefer a mountain bike over a Land Rover can take the sights in via mountain bike on scenic trails that take visitors to the heart of Samui and its natural wonders.
Travellers in search of a luxurious Chaweng hotel will find no finer alternative to the Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Koh Samui. Offering guests the best in contemporary comforts this breathtaking Koh Samui resort is ideally suited for both holidaymakers and corporate travellers.
Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
Sailing Adventures
Sydney is the capital of the Australian state of New South Wales and is easily one of the most widely visited destinations within Australia. The city has gained popularity as the home of two of the world’s most iconic structures – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. It is often referred to as the ‘Harbour City’ due to its importance as a port city and sailing is one of the most beloved of the city’s pastimes.
The Sydney Harbour, which is also known as Port Jackson, is a tourist favourite and few can resist the opportunity to sail around it. There are quite a few places that offer yacht rides. Sailing enthusiasts may enjoy taking a cruise on one of the country’s Americas Cup Yachts – either the Kookaburra or the Spirit. Those who wish to can take a more active role during the yacht ride and take on crew responsibilities while others can simply enjoy the cruise.
This metropolis also has other activities such as surfing, canoeing and kayaking. Fishing is another fun activity that can be done at the harbour although the fish there are not edible. There are a few beautiful spots along the harbour that are ideal for an early morning walk. The city has plenty of interesting tourist attractions including museums, galleries and monuments. ‘Must see’ sights include the Olympic Park, Luna Park, St Mary’s Cathedral and the Royal Botanic Gardens.
The city was the first European settlement in the country and it has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The local infrastructure such as public transport is top notch. The city has a dedicated monorail that services tourist spots making it an easy city to explore. Finding accommodation to suit one’s budget is also easy. There are plenty of places that cater to backpackers, while those looking for aluxury hotel in Sydney will not be disappointed either. The Langham Sydney is a 5 star hotel Sydney known for its elegantly decorated rooms and excellent service. Situated in a central location it is the ideal place to stay when visiting this Australian city and is well suited for business and leisure travellers alike.
Diving at Banana Reef
Home to some of the world’s most stunning coral formations and colourful marine life, the Maldives is one of the best places for a diving adventure. Such excursions are easily enjoyed when staying at a Maldives island resort such as Kuramathi Island. Featuring idyllic Maldives villas, the resort provides guests with dive safaris and trips to such points as the North Ari atoll and Hammerhead Shark Point. Not to be missed while on diving excursions is a visit to Banana Reef which is also known as “Gaathugiri”. One of the country’s oldest dive sites, is has a depth ranging from 5 to 30 metres and is well suited for novices. Accessible all year round, it is home to fascinating coral heads, caves and overhangs, not forgetting a vivid array of marine life including pufferfish, bannerfish, fusiliers and wrasses.
Nature Tour in Kanneliya Wild Sanctuary
Blessed with stunning natural beauty, the island of Sri Lanka is famous for its idyllic beaches that offer a perfect escape amidst the sun, sand and surf. However, the island is also home to breathtaking patches of forests that are teeming with a rich biodiversity including endemic species. Those heading to the country’s famed south coast city of Galle should definitely make time to visit one of the country’s most enchanting reserves, the Kanneliya Wild Sanctuary.
Home to a lowland wet evergreen forest, this reserve can be found east of Galle, near the Nilwala and Gin rivers. Visitors interested in exploring the area can set off on one of the trails in the reserve; those setting off on the Narangas Ella trail will enjoy an unforgettable journey deep into the forest, while travellers venturing along the Kabbale mountain trail can enjoy breathtaking and panoramic views of the surrounding areas from the summit.
As you set off on a nature tour in the Kanneliya Wild Sanctuary you will notice that the trees have formed a sort of canopy covering the forest floor. Sunlight barely penetrates through some densely covered areas of this enchanting forest which also features waterfalls and rivers; it provides a truly exciting escape far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Among the attractions one should look to see while here are the Anagimale falls and the Giant Navada tree.
The reserve is an ideal place for such activities as bird watching. There are more than 100 species of birds that can be seen here and bird watchers have the chance to see such species as the blue magpie, green billed coucal and the spot-winged thrush. Endemic species such as the Sri Lanka junglefowl, red-faced malkoha and Sri Lanka spurfowl have also found a home here. Apart from bird life, the Kanneliya reserve is also known for its endemic freshwater fish species along with a variety of butterflies, amphibians and reptiles.
Those in search of Galle resorts from which to set off on excursions to the region and visit such sites as the Kanneliya reserve can stay at Jetwing Kurulubedda. Set amidst lush greenery, it features villas in Galle that offer an idyllic getaway surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Rivers in Thailand- Explore in a cruise!
Thailand is a country with an array of attractions and numerous things to do. When you are exploring this country, there are many ways of doing that. Cruising across some of the main rivers which flow across the country is one of the most exciting ways of experiencing the beauty of this country. Among many other Bangkok cruises, we can recommend you one of the most unforgettable moments in Bangkok with Anantara Cruises Thailand. This Bangkok cruise tour will take you to all the places that you would ever wish to visit when in Thailand. Chao Phraya, being the major river of Bangkok, has many tours across the river which give the tourists an extraordinary experience.
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.
Thai Royal Guards Parade: A Stunning Display of Military Prowess
Established in 1859 by the then Crown Prince Chulalongkorn, the Thai Royal Guards have evolved throughout history and has served a multitude of purposes. Initially entrusted with simple duties such as scaring crows, the Royal Guards soon became a strong division of the Thai Armed Forces and is, at present, entrusted with the protection of the Thai Royal Family.
In keeping with the special position the Royal Guards occupied within the Armed Forces, in 1953, they received colours from the then reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, one of the highest accolades that the King, as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, may bestow. Since then, this event has been ingrained into the colourful history of Thailand as the Royal Guards of the Armed Forces participate in a massive parade displaying military prowess in celebration of the birthday of the King of Thailand and humbly pledge their loyalty to the reigning King.
What began as a minor activity in the mid 20th century has now blossomed into a massive display of the capabilities of the Thai Royal Army and is attended by the Army, the Navy, the Thai Marine Corps as well as the Thai Air Force. The event is broadcasted live throughout the nation and is attended by thousands of citizens who flock to the Royal Plaza in Bangkok to witness this great display of might. Though the colours ceremony aspect which was initially the focal point of the 1953 parade is no longer a part of the national celebration, other elements such as a 21 Gun Salute and ceremonial march pasts are still retained in this fifty year long tradition.
If one is in the country during December, making a visit to witness this parade is a worthwhile endeavour. It is usually conducted in front of the Dusit Palace at the Royal Plaza in the capital of Thailand, Bangkok. Whether the excursion to modern day Siam is for business of pleasure, opting to stay at a serviced apartment Bangkok is a sensible option in terms of accommodation. One such award winning option would be the Anantara Baan Rajprasong Bangkok which affords all the modern comforts you deserve. Overall, its location further affords an exclusivity that is enjoyed by only the very best of Bangkok serviced apartments.