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Experiencing Songkran in Bangkok

Visitors to Bangkok would have the opportunity to involve themselves in Songkran festivities each year, joining the locals as they gleefully soak anyone on the streets as part of the traditions of this vibrant event.

The significance

Songkran happens to be the Thai New Year, a traditional festivity that is intertwined with Thailand’s culture and religion. During this festival, Thais would visit temples, make offerings, honour their ancestors, and conduct street processions involving religious symbols. Families would also reunite and spend time together during Songkran.

Fun water fights

In fairly recent times, the purification aspect of Songkran has also evolved into exciting water fights! Locals would take to the streets with water guns and buckets of water, gleefully soaking anyone who ventures out during this time. A Sukhumvit-based boutique hotel in Bangkok to consider from which you could easily experience such Songkran festivities and other events in the city would be Gardina Asoke.

What to expect

The water fights would be light-hearted and good-natured, and no one would take offence. Almost nobody on the streets would be spared getting soaked, with the only exceptions being pregnant ladies, babies, elders, monks and on-duty policemen. Foreign visitors would be able to join in the fun and enjoy the revelry on the streets along with the locals.

How to prepare for it

Naturally, you would need plenty of water, water guns and perhaps buckets to involve yourself in the Songkran celebrations. You may attire yourself in colourful clothing to match the festive ambience. If your eyes happen to be sensitive, you should don protective eyewear. If you take along a camera or phone, it should be waterproof or kept in a protective bag.

A day well spent in Disneyland Hong Kong

Reputed for being the most charming of castle parks, Disneyland Hong Kong is where families & friends commune for one fulfilling and exciting time. This is how you can spend a day at this attraction.

Go on Journeys with Duffy

Kick things off with Main Street Cinema’s extravaganza titled ‘My Journeys with Duffy.’ Eagerly await opportunities to not just shake hands with Duffy the Bear but his best friends too. Namely, Gelatoni, StellaLou, ShellieMay and Cookie. In fact, you can watch in awe as Cookie the puppy cooks cotton candy waffle sandwiches.

Join in Flights of Fantasy

Mixing traditional floats, dizzying acrobatic performances with a seemingly endless splash of colour and festive cheer, the Flights of Fantasy is a daytime parade that you must make every effort to catch. Although, you will be found standing in the sun, the scene of Mickey’s Balloon float leisurely cruising the street will be enough motivation to keep your spirits up.

Embark on the Jungle River Cruise

Image via Wikimedia Commons – Deror_avi, Disneyland Hong Kong – Main Street USA IMG 5514, CC BY-SA 3.0

Set off on a weathered tramp steamer under the care of your faithful skipper through murky waters, leaving civilisations behind en route to reaching a tropical jungle outpost as part of this 8-minute ride. As the boat snakes its way through thick jungle, you will catch fleeting glimpses of ancient pillars and architecture that will act as a prelude to what lies ahead. Encounter wading hippos, giant spiders, a pool of playful elephants and mischievous gorillas as you listen to your captain’s detailed narrations.

Have a feast at Explorer’s Club Restaurant

With a series of bay sections that serve wholesome and flavourful fare from across the world, visitors can opt for the Flavours of Japan, Indonesian Spice before casting longing eyes on Korean Treasures and Southeast Asian Delights that are found at Explorer’s Club Restaurant. Looking for a budget hotel in Hong Kong from where you may reach Disneyland Hong Kong? Then stay at Dorsett Mongkok Hong Kong.

Amazing Wildlife to Be Seen at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

The well-known Yala National Park in Sri Lanka would be a delight for nature and wildlife enthusiasts; if you undertake a safari here, you would have the opportunity to spot many kinds of enthralling wildlife to be seen here.

Elephants

Undoubtedly, the Sri Lankan elephant would be a highlight at Yala National Park, with as many as 300 to 350 of them residing here. You will see these magnificent creatures roaming around or bathing in waterholes and lagoons. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could easily experience the Yala wildlife and which will help to organise safaris would be the appealingly located Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Leopards

You will find that Yala National Park boasts the greatest density of leopards to be found anywhere in the world. These majestic creatures, which are Sri Lanka’s apex predators, feed mainly on wild boar and deer and could often be spotted in lowlands and scrubland. Keep in mind that morning and dusk would be the best times for spotting leopards at Yala.

Sloth bears

The Sri Lankan sloth bear would be another intriguing creature that could be spotted at Yala National Park. These bears have shaggy thick fur, a long snout and a head similar in shape to that of a dog. These creatures feed mainly on termites, ants, various fruits, honeycombs, nuts, plants and rodents and are great to photograph.

Birds

Peacock — Birds – Photo by Chanuka Nimsara on Unsplash

Yala is also renowned for the engrossing kinds of birds to be found within it. Birdwatching enthusiasts would have the opportunity to spot varieties like the blue-tailed bee-eater, peacock, painted stork, grey heron and so on. Of particular interest would be endemic species of birds including the Sri Lanka junglefowl, Sri Lanka grey hornbill and crimson-fronted barbet.

Top 3 Golf Courses in Vietnam to Spend Your Time – Get Your Game Mode on!

One of the best destinations for golf lovers who want to play a quality game and find some relaxation is Vietnam. Their scenic views and unique challenges will keep you occupied while you get your game mode on. Here are the top 3 places for you to enjoy.

FLC Quy Nhon

The renowned FLC Quy Nhon course offers breathtaking views of Nhon Ly Beach and the expansive South China Sea, making it a truly scenic destination. This 36-hole facility provides modern amenities, allowing you to conveniently stay on-site during your golfing experience. The course offers a combination of mountain and ocean layouts, providing a diverse and exciting golfing experience. There are so many things to do in Quy Nhon, but it is also known for its thriving golf scene, with many visitors opting to stay at resorts such as Avani Quy Nhon Resort, making it an ideal choice for accommodation after a day on the greens.

Hoiana Shores Golf Club

If you want to visit an award-winning course, Hoiana Shores Golf Club is the ideal choice for you. The first of its kind in Asia with 18 golf holes that can be enjoyed by players at any level, this will be an unforgettable experience for any golf enthusiast. Hoiana Shores remain to be one of the top 100 golf courses in Asia.

Ba Na Hills Golf Club

The former world number 1 Luke Donald designed the Ba Na Hills golf club, and this is one of the most spectacular golf courses you can find in Vietnam. You will have to bring you’re A-game to win, as this course is quite challenging. There are many elevations changes and undulations to keep your winning spirit on.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: An Experience Worth Relishing

Pinnawala, with its luxuriant plantation surroundings and generously flowing river, is a welcome sight for nature lovers. Its stunning population of Asian elephants, rescued from harsh realities, effortlessly captures the hearts of visitors regardless of their age or wildlife affinity.

Elephants being fed at an orphanage | Image by Taru Goyal on Unsplash

A Historic Wildlife Sanctuary

Now comprising 93 gracefully gigantic inhabitants, this true-to-nature refuge – the world’s largest sanctuary for Asian elephants – was established in 1975 to provide a safe space for young elephants left injured or abandoned in the wild.

Bonding with Gentle Giants

Spanning ten to thirteen feet in height and weighing up to twelve thousand kilograms, the size of these mammals may intimidate you at first, but their wise, gracious, and playful ways will soon put even a child at ease. Pinnawala gives you an intimate glimpse into a day in the life of a Sri Lankan elephant – from feeding a sweet baby elephant from a milk bottle to watching these massive creatures splash each other as they bathe in the river and gambol together in the nursery.

When to Visit?

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is found approximately an hour’s drive away from the UNESCO-listed heritage jewel of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Make sure to head to the iconic wildlife oasis in time for breakfast at 9:15 am or lunch at 1:15 pm and swim time at 10 am and 2 pm. Travel to Kandy for enriching experiences like this, and enlist the expert guidance of travel blogs such as Kandy Escapes.

Safe and Savvy Tips

While it’s easy to be swept away by the gentle approachability and charming antics of these gargantuan animals, it’s also important to treat them with respect and consideration, keeping to the guidelines instructed by the trained staff.

The Must-visit Museums in Ho Chi Minh City

Amongst the key attractions in Ho Chi Minh City are its captivating museums and here are four which you should definitely look to add to your sightseeing itinerary.

War Remnants Museum

First up is the War Remnants Museum, a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the Vietnam War. Within easy reach of properties like Oakwood Residence Saigon, this museum houses a vast collection of photographs, artefacts, and documents that tell the story of the conflict from the Vietnamese perspective. You can see everything from M48 Patton tanks and Huey helicopters to torture devices. It’s a sobering experience, but an essential one for anyone interested in the history of the war.

History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

At the History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City, one can learn about the history of the city from its earliest days to the Nguyen dynasty. For those at a District 7-based serviced apartment, Ho Chi Minh City sightseeing trips can be easily enjoyed at this site which features a vast collection of artefacts, including pottery, sculptures, weapons, ceramics, and clothing. There are also exhibits dedicated to the Vietnamese struggle for independence and the country’s cultural heritage.

Fine Arts Museum

If you’re looking for something a little more artistic, the Fine Arts Museum is the place to be. The site with its impressive art-deco architecture houses an impressive collection of Vietnamese art from throughout the ages, including ancient ceramics, bronze sculptures, traditional handicrafts, and southern fine arts from the 18th to 20th centuries. There is also a section dedicated to contemporary art where one can view works by well-known artists in Vietnam such as Do Quang Em and Nguyen Gia Tri.

FITO Museum

Last but not least is the FITO Museum, which also goes by the name of the Vietnam Museum of Traditional Medicine; it, in fact, is made up of two buildings at different locations where one can find out about traditional Vietnamese medicine. Here, you can see ancient medical tools, herbs, and remedies used to treat everything from common ailments to more serious conditions. Some exhibits also trace the history of traditional medicine in Vietnam, from its earliest days to the present.

Fun Things to Do in Jakarta at Night

Whether you’re into dancing, chilling at a rooftop bar, shopping for souvenirs, or sampling delicious street food, Jakarta has got something for everyone; here’s what you can enjoy in the city after the sun has set!

Dance Till Dawn at Nightclubs

If you’re looking for a place to dance the night away, Jakarta has got you covered. There are plenty of nightclubs around the city that cater to different music tastes, from EDM to hip-hop and everything in between. Most of these venues, within easy reach of properties like Oakwood Suites Kuningan Jakarta, have killer sound systems, epic light shows, and some of the best DJs in the world spinning the tunes. Some of the most popular clubs to head to are X2, Dragonfly, and Colosseum.

Embark on Bar-Hopping Escapades

If you’re not in the mood to take to the dance floor, the city has some great bars where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink or two. The rooftop bars are particularly popular because they offer stunning views of the city skyline including Cloud Lounge and Henshin which are easy to access from Kuningan-based luxury apartments. Jakarta also offers plenty of laid-back places too where you can grab a beer and hang out with the locals. Check out spots like Basque and Camden Bar for a more casual vibe.

Shop Till You Drop at Night Markets

If you’re a shopaholic, you’re going to love Jakarta’s night markets. They’re open until relatively late at night, so you can browse the stalls and shop to your heart’s content; don’t forget to bargain (politely of course!) for discounts. One of the most popular night markets is Pasar Baru, where you can find everything from clothing and jewellery to electronics, souvenirs, and yummy food. The Pecah Kulit Night Market and the Santa Night Market are worth checking out too.

Enjoy Some Exotic Foodie Adventures

Jakarta offers some truly delectable street food which is the perfect complement to your nightlife experiences. You’ll find street food vendors on almost every street corner as well as at night markets selling all kinds of delicious snacks and meals; highlights include bakso (meatball soup), nasi goreng (fried rice dish), gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), chicken satay and pempek (fish cake). Some dishes can be pretty spicy, so if you’re not used to it, start with something mild and work your way up.

Nature’s Hidden Gems: Hiking Trails Around Kandy

Situated in the Central Province, surrounded by the Knuckles and Hunnasgiriya mountain ranges, Kandy enjoys a colder climate, making it the ideal trail for hiking enthusiasts.

Mutukeliyawa View Point

If you have gone through the list of all the things to do in Kandy, you may be looking to step out of your comfort zone. However, it is understood that not everyone considers hiking for hours at an end fun. Thus, this hike is ideal for novices, as it can be completed in under 3 hours.

Hantana to Galaha

If you are looking to burn some calories after a hearty breakfast at a property such as Hotel Topaz, then consider embarking on the first stage of the Pekoe trail. This is another easy trail that is ideal for newcomers. This hike starts at the Ceylon tea museum at the Hantana estate, which is a must-visit.

Alagalla

While this is a popular hiking trail, it is more suitable for experienced hikers as the final steps of the journey involve a steep slope that is difficult to navigate.

Pettigala

This hike is open to anyone as it is relatively easy, and offers a breathtaking view. From the top, you would be able to observe both the Victoria reservoir and the Knuckles mountain range, which is absolutely worth the 1-kilometre hike.

Amazing water sports experience in Bentota

The water sports scene in Bentota warrants checking out where you can take turns going diving, enjoying some banana boating and even a quiet yet engaging snorkelling expedition.

Snorkelling

Comb the very depths of the ocean floor in search of an array of colourful marine mammals that inhabit the waters off Bentota during a snorkelling trip. Considered a good way to kick off your adventurous pursuits in this section of Sri Lanka, one may avail of professional expertise that will see to it that you are well placed to enjoy the brilliance of what the ocean will reveal to you.

Banana Boating

Suiting those in groups, banana boating will have you clinging on for dear life to the person seated in front of you. This is because the banana-shaped vessel that you will be riding can easily throw you off as the power of the speedboat and the waves can combine in sending you the odd curveball.

Diving

Satisfy your cravings for the ocean in no uncertain manner with a riveting dive. When in the water, you will come into contact with coral reefs that showcase a cross-section of fish whose varying hues, shades and sizes will leave you in awe. Given the diving centres around town, you can pick and choose from beginner courses, advanced courses to even those that would attract the little ones.

Water Skiing

Bring along your adventurous spirit and a will to succeed en route to trying your hand at some water skiing. If based at one of the 5-star hotels in Bentota such as the Cinnamon Bentota Beach, then you will have ease of access to Bentota River. This water body provides a conducive environment for you to perfect your balance on a ski and be towed by boat as you glide through the water with impeccable accuracy.

Exploring the best attractions in Pattaya

From floating markets, and riveting theme parks to beautiful beaches that will easily have you unwinding and embracing the magic of Pattaya, here is a list of some of the region’s finest hotspots.

Mini Siam

Set foot on the global stage so to speak when at Mini Siam which depicts models of some of the world’s most sought-after sites including those of Thailand. Begin at the Victory Monument in Bangkok before beelining for the astounding structure of the Sydney Opera House set against clear blue skies and tinges of vegetation.

Ramayana Water Park

Labelled as the best and biggest water park in the country, Ramayana Water Park will leave its patrons with plenty of reasons to smile about and not to mention, splash about! With 21 themed rides that snake their way through and across the entirety of the Park, those wishing to beat the heat with those closest to their heart can venture here for a day filled with high-pitched squeals and exciting escapades.

Sanctuary of Truth

Merging the values of art, culture, religion and philosophy in one awe-inspiring display that rises to 105 metres in the air, the Sanctuary of Truth is a combination of a palace and temple (wat). Hewn out of teak, this attraction stands testament to Thai craftsmanship and architecture and upon entry, one can enjoy bouts of Thai boxing, go elephant trekking or simply look out across turquoise seas.

Pattaya Walking Street

A kaleidoscope of colour, festivity and thrill-seeking, the 1 km long Pattaya Walking Street ranks as one of Thailand’s busiest party and entertainment enclaves. You can dance your cares away into the wee hours of the morning, grab a cold one at a beer bar or dare yourself to sample a handful of fried grasshoppers. In fact, if you happen to be residing at a property like Travelodge Pattaya which is one of the famous hotels near Pattaya Beach, then you will be well placed to check out the pleasures of Pattaya Walking Street.