Must Try Water Sports in Sri Lanka

 

It is no secret that Sri Lanka is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. If you are looking for something more exciting than just lazing by the beach, here are some thrilling water sports to try while holidaying in this tropical paradise.

image via https://www.flickr.com/

Scuba Diving

Home to a host of natural reefs and sunken ships, Sri Lanka is a hotspot for divers. You can choose between dive stations offering easy dives and those offering full PADI certifications. Some of the most famous scuba diving destinations in and around the island may include Unawatuna, Mirissa, Kalpitiya, Trincomalee and Hikkaduwa.

Surfing

The rippling ocean waves in this tropical paradise are ideal for surf lovers. Considered one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka for some fun under the sun, there is no reason to be discouraged if you are still an amateur in the sport, simply because there is a host of places offering surf lessons to level up your skills. With waves that can be surfed all year round, next time you are holidaying on the island, make sure you ride these swelling waves.

Kayaking

With ample rivers, lakes and rainwater tanks scattered across the island, Sri Lanka is one of the best destinations to have a fun kayaking expedition. As you paddle across the river, you are bound to encounter exotic wildlife not to mention plenty of exquisite flora, you have never seen before. Interestingly, if you are staying at a beach resort belonging to the famous chain Amaya resorts & spa, a range of water sports including kayaking expeditions can be easily arranged at your convenience.

White water rafting

As dangerous as it may sound, white water rafting is one of the most exciting watersports to be enjoyed. As long as you are above the age of 10 years and are equipped with all the safety gear, you meet all the requirements to try this watersport. Kithulgala would be one of the best places to try this thrilling sport.

  

 

Diverse Safaris in Zambia That You Can Enjoy – Thrilling Wildlife Encounters Await

From national parks home to exotic wildlife to stunning natural landscapes, Zambia offers much to discover on a safari and the great thing is, you get various adventure-filled options too!

Game Drive Safaris

A great way to explore national parks is while being driven in 4×4 open safari vehicles that take you to the heart of these reserves home to plenty of wildlife. An ideal place for this is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park near The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara; on your game drive, you will get a chance to see white rhinos, zebras, giraffes, monkeys, antelopes and much more.

Canoeing Safaris

Apart from game drive safaris, you can look to enjoy those on water too! For example, for travellers staying at a Livingstone hotel, Victoria Falls is not the only natural attraction to experience here; one can also embark on exciting canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River to spot wildlife and birdlife. Other areas for such escapades include the Kafue and Luangwa rivers as well as various lagoons in the country.

Image via The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara

Walking Safaris

For more up-close exploration, certain areas can be toured on a walking safari. As you would expect, such excursions, be it on short trips or longer mobile safaris, are done with highly trained guides. Getting closer to animals will be truly rewarding and unforgettable and places, where you can look forward to such experiences, include the South and North Luangwa and Lochinvar national parks. 

Other Safaris

For something different, look to set off on a safari in Zambia on horseback or even atop an elephant! Such excursions are available for those staying at hotels in Livingston close to Victoria Falls. Since the country is a place where one can see over 740 bird species, it has also become a prime destination for bird-watching safaris at spots like the Lower Zambezi and Lochinvar national parks.

Exploring the Streets of Sukhumvit in Bangkok – Making lasting memories in Bangkok

If there is one place in Bangkok that you should explore while taking in everything around you, then it is most definitely the streets of Sukhumvit.

Image by travelphotographer from Pixabay

Visit Terminal 21

Not located too far from Gardina Asoke Hotel & Residence and most other hotels, Terminal 21 will allow you to take a trip around the world without having to spend too much money or time. Different parts of the shopping mall take the theme of different cities of the world.

Visit outdoor markets

If you are staying at a Bangkok hotel in Sukhumvit, one thing you will come across quite often is the outdoor markets. The open-air markets are a great place to shop and explore when you are in Sukhumvit. Known as one of the longest streets in Thailand, there are so many shops that you can visit on this street.

Try different food

Even if you are a street food lover or someone who wishes to enjoy food at a high-end restaurant, you will love the food scene in Sukhumvit.

Try a spa treatment

There is nothing more relaxing than a full-body massage or a steam bath after a long day of exploring and walking.

 

Tips for Your Upcoming Zambian Adventure – A Land of Waterfalls, National Parks and Unique Wildlife

Venture into a country of diverse wildlife and natural beauties that guarantee an action-packed vacation for travellers. Enriched by large pools of water and vast areas of land, Zambia is one of South Africa’s awe-inspiring tour locations. 

Game Drives

Fancy a game drive to spot the African buffalo? Thrilling rides at the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are one of the top things to do in Zambia, which is easily reachable in a 27-minute drive from Avani Victoria Falls Resort. Explorers will be able to spot a wide array of wildlife species from birds to feared predators. Among them are the Angolan giraffe, warthog, impala, Burchell’s zebra and sable. 

Walking Expeditions

Take strolls down Zambian National Parks to enrich your stay in the country. This South African exploration may seem like quite the challenge at first glance, but with the guidance of armed guards and professional guides, it will seem like a walk in the park, only much better and exciting. The guided walks will open the doorway for travellers to discover fauna and flora that haven’t been spotted before in their lives. 

Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia (48598577681), CC BY 2.0

A Dinner Cruise Down Zambezi River

Connect with Zambian nature as you cruise down the Zambezi River by Victoria Falls. The river cruises create space for travellers to get up close and personal with the surroundings of the river and the astonishing offerings of Zambian nature. The Zambezi-style dinner at the dinner cruise is a bonus to your experience. 

Victoria Falls

The jaw-dropping view of Victoria Falls is guaranteed to linger in your memories for years to come. Back in the 1800s, the tribal people, Kololo described the cascade of waters as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’, which translates into ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, owing to the grandeur standing of the waterfall as the greatest curtain of falling in the world.

Doha Quest

Doha Quest is the newest addition to the list of theme parks in Qatar. The high-tech indoor amusement park includes roller coasters, interactive games, and brightly lit kids’ rides.

Doha skyline from the Marriott Hotel, Qatar
Doha skyline from the Marriott Hotel, Qatar | Image by David McKelvey via flickr

Details

Located in Doha Oasis, Doha Quest is the recent most attraction added to the list of attractions in Doha. It is a location that has attractions for everyone, so no one has to stay behind in any hotels in Doha while the others go have fun. Quest is open from Monday to Saturday from 2 in the afternoon to 10 in the night, but it is closed on Sundays.

Highlights

Opened only in 2021, Doha Quest has already made history as it is home to the tallest indoor roller coaster known as EpiQ Coaster and the world’s highest drop water ride, which is known as Magma Blast.

Family attractions

Another speciality about Doha Quest is that it is separated into three different times, the past, the present and the future. The rides and the attractions are dedicated to each of the three themes giving them a story and a unique experience.

Adventures

Not located too far from Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and the city centre, Doha Quest has something for everybody varying from rides, games, food and shopping.

 

Pearl Diving in Abu Dhabi – A wonderful adventure

A rich and important aspect of UAE history and culture is pearl diving. Many of the riches and traditions that still exist in the nation today are a direct result of it. Even if pearl diving is no longer done for profit, it nonetheless contributes significantly to the industry and continues to attract tourists! Here are a few things you should know if you’re planning to do it.

Image via Wikimedia Commons

Why is pearl diving so popular in the UAE?

In the past, pearl diving was a thriving industry in the UAE, supporting numerous prosperous careers. It frequently established the solid financial groundwork for numerous affluent Arab families. In the UAE, pearl diving is still regarded as a precious tradition and a significant aspect of local culture and is one of the most popular tourist activities in Abu Dhabi.

Where to go pearl diving?

From Yas Marina, travellers will board an authentic Emirati dhow and set sail toward a diving site one nautical mile away. You can join the hosts in singing along to classic Emirati songs while listening to legendary tales about pearl diving. After you’ve anchored at the diving location, you’ll be instructed in the traditional techniques for harvesting actual oyster shells from pearl beds in the Arabian Gulf.

Places to stay in Abu Dhabi

While admiring the city’s fantastic high-rises, which appear to defy structural logic, take advantage of a variety of beautiful beaches, gardens, and promenades to stroll or cycle. Several top-notch restaurants and shopping opportunities are nearby, from chic malls to souks. You can find many luxurious accommodation options such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort.

How did the commercial pearl diving industry decline?

In the 1920s, the Gulf pearl business started to decline. By the late 1920s and the early 1930s, it had further deteriorated. At that point, the Japanese had developed a method for creating perfect artificial pearls. This was the primary cause of the pearling industry’s downfall. Pearl divers in the UAE lost business as a result of the start of the Great Depression and the decline in returns from the pearl banks.

A Day Trip to Ferrari World

Ferrari world has no shortage of thrilling rides, scrumptious dishes and sweeping driving experiences, here is a list of fun activities you can enjoy in this one-of-a-kind theme park.

 Yas Island

The multi-purpose Yas Island is a haven for you to have the ultimate shopping, adventure, or leisure experience. Nestled within a 30-minute drive away from lavish Serviced apartments in Abu Dhabi the likes of Oaks Liwa Executive Suites, the Island offers an array of rip-roaring activities that will keep you on the edge of your seat. One of the biggest highlights of the island includes the Ferrari world, an indoor amusement park with an amass of Ferrari model cars, exhilarating rides, and exciting dining places.

 Thrilling rides

Roller coaster ride in Ferrari World | Image via picryl

Whether you are on the lookout to race with your friends and have a fun Formula one experience or reach the skies in some of the most exhilarating roller coaster rides in the world, Ferrari world is the place to be.  Interestingly, the place is also home to Flying Aces, the world’s highest rollercoaster loop and Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster ride. So, make sure you buckle up for the ride!

 Dining

Dining in Ferrari world will be quite like you are in Italy munching on a juicy pizza. Whether you are looking for a hearty meal or an icy gelato to escape the heat, here you can find restaurants of every kind, each one having its own distinct feel.

 Driving experience

Here is your chance to experience a joy ride around Yas island behind the wheels of your dream Ferrari. You can either be the driver or the passenger for the day as you buckle up to experience one of the most extravagant rides on a top-down Ferrari. The good news is that you get to be accompanied by a Ferrari-trained instructor who will guide you every step of the way.

  

Adventures in Abu Dhabi – Safaris in the desert

After reading this informative guide, your experience on the Abu Dhabi desert safari will be so much better. Discover the ideal time to visit, how to pick the finest excursions and advice on how to dress for your safari.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

What is a desert safari?

The desert has always fascinated travellers, but many were put off by its harsh weather and lack of water, not to mention the potential for getting lost among the endless miles of sand hills. A desert safari is an expert-led tour of the desert where you can engage in a variety of activities that the native Bedouins of the area enjoy, examine the desert’s natural habitat, engage in exhilarating desert activities, or unwind by watching a desert sunrise or sunset.

When to go?

The best time for desert adventures in Abu Dhabi is during the winter, which lasts from October to April. To ensure that your trip is enjoyable, the weather throughout the winter months is neither overly humid nor overly hot. Visit the country during its summer months, which are between May and September, if you want to get more reasonable hotel prices.

What to wear?

Before pre-dawn, the weather can be a little chilly, so you should bring a light cardigan. After sunrise, the temperature rises. Dress in long trousers made of fabrics like cotton or linen with t-shirts or tops made of the same materials to be able to manage between both temperatures. The temperature starts to fall in the evenings, so it’s not as hot. You can bundle up against the cool that starts to set in about sundown by dressing in trousers and shirts and carrying a lightweight jacket or sweater.

Where to click nice pictures?

Locations such as Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara will look stunning on your Instagram profile whether you enjoy sharing travel photos there or just want to showcase your gorgeous vacation in the desert. The Abu Dhabi desert offers fantastic photo opportunities everywhere.

Things to Do for a Memorable Vacation in Mui Ne – The Land of Sand Dunes

A stunning beach town in Southeast Vietnam, Mui Ne is a must-visit travel destination for all fun-loving humans. From dune bashing and quad biking to kitesurfing and visiting fishing villages, there is so much to explore in this vivid city!

Watersports

Being a beach town, watersports are naturally one of the best experiences to indulge in. Surfing, kitesurfing, diving, swimming, and kayaking are some famous things to do in Mui Ne. You can easily borrow the gear from the local spots or seek assistance from the staff at Anantara Mui Ne Resort.

Image via Anantara Mui Ne Resort

Sunrise and Sunset Tours

Catch a desert safari to explore the sand dunes during sunrise or sunset to witness the magical golden hours and the vibrant skies. These views make the most captivating captures for your Instagram and keep you awestruck during the entire tour.

Visit the Fishing Villages

If you seek a taste of the local life, visiting a fishing village will be the best opportunity to observe the villagers, fishermen, and small kids running around. You can bargain a pretty good deal for some fish, and taste some local dishes made with freshly caught fish.

Indulge in Local Cuisines!

Wherever you go, if you haven’t tried the local cuisines, you haven’t completed your stay! Mui Ne offers a wide variety of local food such as pancakes, spring rolls, soups, and peanut milk. The freshly-prepared meals will leave your cravings satisfied, and make you feel wholesome!

A Visit to Yala National Park

Being one of the biggest national parks in Sri Lanka, a visit to Yala National Park is a must if you are ever on vacation on this charming island. Here are some of the highlights.  

 Yala National Park

Spanning a total area of 900 sq km, Yala National Park is easily one of the most enormous national parks in Sri Lanka. This exotic sanctuary was once a popular hunting ground for the British but now claims to have the highest leopard density in Asia whilst sheltering a host of other fauna the likes of sloth bears, deer, crocodiles and exotic bird species.

 What to see and do

Yala National Park
Yala National Park – Image by Nadil Jayakody from Pixabay

The Yala National Park tops as a hotspot for spotting leopards. Hop on board a 4 x 4 safari ride with binoculars in your hand during dawn or dusk to catch these inimitable animals in action. Whilst catching a glimpse of leopards has become a coveted attraction among travellers, there is a host of other wildlife to be seen amidst these exotic savannahs. During a ride along this wildlife sanctuary, you can easily spot some sloth bears, ample endemic birds emerging out of mangroves and elephants roaming across the land.

 Hotspots for Accommodation

From small boutique hotels and eco-friendly villas to opulent hotels and retreats by the jungle, you are spoilt for accommodation choices when holidaying in Yala. Amongst the top-notch accommodation spots in the area, a Yala hotel the likes of Cinnamon Wild Yala is indeed a wise pick for the hotel is kin to camping in the wild except with luxurious amenities brought to your arms.

 Best time to go on safari

The dry season from February to June is the idyllic time to go on a safari in this exotic wildlife paradise. With water levels decreasing, there is ample opportunity to witness wild animals emerging out of their habitats in search of water. The park also boasts a serene year-round temperature of 29°C and only experiences heavy showers during the months from September to December.