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Dive Deep

The Maldives beckons with turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and endless sunshine – a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. But with so many options, where do you begin? This comprehensive guide equips you for an unforgettable aquatic adventure in the Maldives.

Underwater Adventures

The Maldives boasts some of the world’s best coral reefs, teeming with marine life. Scuba diving is a must. Explore colourful coral gardens, encounter playful dolphins, and witness majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly through the crystal-clear depths. For a taster, snorkelling offers a glimpse of this underwater wonderland. Explore shallow reefs teeming with fish and discover hidden underwater treasures.

Gliding Across the Surface

For those seeking a serene experience, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is perfect. Glide effortlessly across tranquil lagoons, enjoying breathtaking views and the gentle rhythm of the waves. If you prefer a touch of speed, kayaking allows you to explore hidden coves and mangrove forests, encountering diverse marine life along the way.

Thrilling Encounters

For the adrenaline junkie, the Maldives offers a range of exhilarating options. Jet skiing lets you carve through the turquoise waters, feeling the wind in your hair. Parasailing provides a bird’s-eye view of the atolls, offering stunning panoramic vistas. Experienced water sports enthusiasts can try windsurfing or kitesurfing, harnessing the power of the wind for an unforgettable experience.

Beyond the Waves

The Maldives caters to more than just surface pursuits. Game fishing offers the chance to battle magnificent marlin, tuna, and other deep-sea giants. Underwater scooters propel you effortlessly through the coral reefs, allowing you to explore vast underwater landscapes with minimal effort.

Choosing Your Adventure

Most resorts, such as Hard Rock Hotel Maldives offer a range of water-based activities to do in Maldives. Do your research beforehand to choose activities that suit your fitness level and interests. Safety is paramount, so ensure qualified instructors are present and follow all safety guidelines.

Capturing the Ethereal Beauty of The Maldives: Your Guide to Paradise

A string of idyllic islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the Maldivian archipelago is a dream. With clear turquoise waters brimming with exotic marine life, pristine beaches made up of soft, white sands, and luxurious hotels and resorts, the 26 atolls that make up this fascinating island nation beckons visitors from all over. Here’s your essential guide to planning your escape to paradise.

Planning & Packing

Research resorts in advance, considering factors such as budget, desired experiences, and island size. Pack light, breezy clothing and comfortable footwear. For those staying at a luxury hotel in Maldives, consider packing some nice evening attire, as the resort’s restaurants may have a dress code. Most importantly, bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs.

When to Visit

The dry season, from November to April, is ideal for watersports, with consistent sunshine and calm seas. However, the monsoon season, from May to October, offers lower prices and fewer crowds, albeit with occasional rain showers.

Getting to Your Resort

Upon arrival at the International Airport in Malé, reach your resort by seaplane or speedboat shuttle, and for added convenience, consider staying at a resort that provides complimentary transport to and from the island. For instance, for those planning on staying fairly close to the airport and Malé, Velassaru Maldives offers direct pick-up from the airport via a 25-minute speedboat transfer.

Underwater Adventures

The Maldives is a diver’s paradise. Discover the nation’s world-famous coral reefs, and swim with majestic manta rays or gentle whale sharks. Many resorts offer snorkelling and diving excursions for all experience levels. Alternatively, bask in the sun and sea breeze on a cruise or traditional Maldivian boat, a “Dhoni”, to explore the vast ocean and secluded sandbanks.

Cultural Gems & Culinary Delights

Venture beyond your resort and experience Maldivian culture. Explore the capital, Malé, with its lively markets and historic mosques, for a taste of the nation’s 3,000-year-old history. Savour fresh seafood dishes spiced with local flavours and other South Asian influences, and don’t miss the opportunity to try a refreshing glass of coconut water.

Beneath the Deep Blue – The Marine Marvels of the Maldives

The Maldives, a pristine archipelago nestled in the Indian Ocean, is renowned worldwide for its marine marvels and breathtaking natural beauty. Comprising over 1,000 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, the Maldives boasts some of the planet’s most spectacular underwater landscapes. Its crystal-clear waters teem with vibrant coral reefs, and a kaleidoscope of marine life including manta rays, whale sharks, and an array of tropical fish species.

img via wikipedia commons

What to Expect

Below the stunning turquoise waters of the Maldives lies an enchanting world that captivates tourists, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Renowned globally for its mesmerizing coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and stunning underwater scenery, the Maldives provides a diving experience unparalleled anywhere else on Earth, especially in places like the Kuda Villingili.

The Coral Paradise
Located centrally in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives proudly showcases a stunning variety of coral reefs, securing its rank among the world’s premier diving destinations. These reefs host a diverse array of marine life, from intricate reef fish and graceful sea turtles to magnificent manta rays and reef sharks. Serving as critical habitats for numerous species, the coral reefs surrounding the Maldives offer captivating dives

Marine Life unbound
One of the most thrilling experiences of diving in the Maldives is the opportunity to witness magnificent marine life up close. Divers have the chance to encounter gentle giants such as whale sharks and manta rays in the Maldivian waters. The South Ari Atoll, in particular, is famous for its frequent whale shark sightings and is the base for many a luxury resort in the Maldives.

Biodiversity like no other
The underwater world of the Maldives boasts an incredible array of marine life that never fails to amaze even the most experienced divers. From vibrant, brightly coloured reef fish to elusive whale sharks, every dive offers a glimpse into the complex underwater ecosystem. The Maldives’ diverse geography creates numerous dive sites, each with its own unique ecosystem and inhabitants.

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Exploring Sukhumvit

Travelling solo can be quite a liberating experience if executed the right way! While it could get a little lonely, it also gives you the freedom to make decisions in the spur of the moment while not having to concern yourself with synching interests. If you are travelling solo to Sukhumvit, here are a few places that you could stop by!

img via flickr

Terminal 21 Shopping Centre

Calling all shopaholics! If you’d like to travel the world as you shop, look no further. Terminal 21 Shopping Centre is designed to resemble a separate part of the world on each floor. Splurge at high-end fashion outlets, sample a selection of international cuisines and unwind as you watch one of the latest blockbuster movies. At the end of your expedition, you could lay back and relax at Gardina Asoke, which is only a kilometre away from the mall.

Benjasiri Park

With a picturesque lake, lush greenery and blooming flowers, Benjasiri Park is a solo traveller’s paradise. Go for a jog, enjoy some people-watching or rest under the shade of a tree. Your opportunities for rejuvenation are endless at this tranquil park!

Soi Cowboy

If you hope to do so much more than spend your nights at a hotel in Sukhumvit, Bangkok, a trip to Soi Cowboy will be the perfect fit for you. Stroll down its neon-lit streets and dance the night away to the pulsating music of one of its many clubs.

Siam Niramit

Attending Siam Niramit will allow you to immerse yourself in Bangkok’s culture like you never have before. You could partake in ancient rituals, sample local cuisine and observe talented performers showcase traditional forms of art in stunning costumes.

Underwater Escapades in the Maldives – Dive into Dreamy Adventures!

The Maldives might conjure images of luxurious overwater bungalows and pristine white sand beaches, but beneath the turquoise surface lies a whole other world waiting to be explored. Discover an underwater wonderland teeming with vibrant marine life on truly unforgettable adventures!

Snorkelling | img via pickpik

Snorkelling
Snorkelling remains amongst the most fun things to do in Maldives and this family-friendly activity allows you to witness the dazzling underwater spectacle without any complex equipment. Simply slip on a mask, fins, and snorkel, and prepare to be mesmerised! The crystal-clear waters boast incredible visibility, allowing you to swim alongside colourful reef fish right from the shore.

Scuba Diving
For thrill-seekers and certified divers, scuba diving unlocks a whole new dimension; it allows you to explore intricate coral reefs teeming with exotic fish as well as encounter manta rays, stealthy sharks and more. Advanced divers can embark on exhilarating wreck dives, where remnants of sunken ships have become havens for fascinating marine life. Check out online resources like The Maldives Travel for more insights into diving in this enchanting destination.

Whale Submarine
Not everyone is comfortable venturing underwater with just a mask and fins. But that shouldn’t stop you from experiencing the magic of the marine kingdom! The Whale Submarine experience near Male offers a family-friendly alternative as this air-conditioned submarine takes you on a captivating underwater tour; marvel at vibrant reef fish, sleek sharks, and even the occasional turtle gliding past the windows.

Seabob Escapades
If you crave an adrenaline rush, look no further than the Seabob. Billed as an underwater scooter, it can propel you through the water at speeds of up to 22 km/h! It provides a great way to explore the ocean with exhilarating speed and agility, as you glide effortlessly through the water like a dolphin. This activity is perfect for adventurous travellers who want to experience the thrill of underwater exploration in a whole new way.

Visiting Pigeon Island, Trincomalee – A snorkel and A dive away

Renowned for its unique blend of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, Pigeon Island has evolved into a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This idyllic islet, officially designated as a national park, beckons visitors with its lush landscapes, diverse marine life, and a rich colonial past that echoes through the remnants of a 17th-century Dutch fort.

Where exactly is the Island?

Pigeon Island in Trincomalee | Image by *Chiranmayu* via *Wikimedia Commons*

Pigeon Island National Park has emerged as a recent addition to Sri Lanka’s expanding conservation areas, encompassing not only the small Pigeon Island located just a kilometre off the coast near Trincomalee but also a significant expanse of the surrounding coral reef and sea. Despite the unfortunate impact of the 2004 tsunami on much of its coral, the park boasts some of the best-preserved coral reefs in Sri Lanka, and is conveniently accessible in many ways.

Getting to the Island

Pigeon Island is readily visible from the northern coast of Trincomalee, its petite expanse measuring around 200 meters, yet situated just 1 kilometer off Nilaveli Beach. Access to the island is exclusively facilitated through organized boat tours originating from either Nilaveli Beach or Uppuveli Beach. The process is effortlessly managed, with numerous snorkelling and diving establishments lining the beachfront, offering tours and equipment rentals.

The Best Time to visit

Optimal conditions for snorkelling and diving adventures at Pigeon Island prevail from April to October, aligning with the dry season in northern Sri Lanka. During this period, you can anticipate clearer skies and more tranquil, transparent waters. While water clarity may vary throughout the season, choosing a mid-season timeframe enhances the likelihood of encountering the best conditions for clear water exploration. Consider visiting resources like Truly Sri Lanka for a better idea of the weather and optimal visit times.

Snorkelling or Diving?

While one might instinctively assume that Pigeon Island is better suited for diving, experienced visitors and instructors insist that opting for snorkelling is the more rewarding choice. The shallow reef on the south side of the island offers an ideal environment for snorkelling, providing easy sightings of reef sharks, turtles, and abundant fish, a great adventure in Sri Lanka to seek out and experience for yourself.

Scuba Diving in Hikkaduwa – Explore beneath the waves

Embark on an exhilarating adventure beneath the waves with scuba diving in Hikkaduwa, a coastal gem in Sri Lanka known for its vibrant marine ecosystem and stunning underwater landscapes.

Diving Sites and Marine Life

Diving to explore Marine Life in Hikkaduwa | Image via Needpix

Explore Hikkaduwa’s renowned dive sites, including Coral Garden and Kiralagala Rock, teeming with colourful fish and fascinating coral formations. These sites boast clear waters and excellent visibility, providing divers with unforgettable encounters with Sri Lanka’s underwater wonders. Keep an eye out for majestic sea turtles gliding effortlessly by, making your dive an unforgettable adventure in Sri Lanka.

Equipment and Safety Precautions

Before diving, ensure your safety by checking your equipment thoroughly and following safety protocols. Always dive with a certified instructor or guide, and adhere to safety procedures such as buddy checks and dive planning. Properly maintained scuba gear and adherence to safety guidelines are essential for a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

Choosing the Right Dive Centre

Select a reputable dive centre with certified instructors and a strong commitment to safety and environmental conservation. Look for facilities that offer well-maintained equipment, small group sizes, and personalised instruction. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from fellow divers can help you find the ideal dive centre for your needs.

Environmental Conservation and Responsible Diving Practices

Practice responsible diving by respecting marine life and habitats. Avoid touching or disturbing coral reefs and marine creatures, and refrain from littering or damaging underwater ecosystems. Participate in conservation efforts such as underwater clean-up initiatives to help preserve Hikkaduwa’s marine environment for future generations. For more information on responsible diving practices in Sri Lanka, check out popular travel blogs such as Truly Sri Lanka.

Accommodation and Facilities for Divers

Hikkaduwa offers a range of accommodation options catering to divers, from beachfront resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many accommodations provide diving packages and facilities for storing and rinsing dive gear, making it convenient for diving enthusiasts to explore the underwater wonders of Hikkaduwa.

Top Things to Do on a Romantic Getaway in Kyoto

Tipped to be one of the most romantic hotspots in Japan, Kyoto is a dream destination for couples and honeymooners. Here are some of the best things to do during a getaway to the city with your loved one.

Arashiyama | img via wikipedia commons

Pay Homage to the God of Love

The holy Jishu Shrine is no ordinary place of worship in Kyoto as this is one of the most famous Temples of Love in Japan. Dedicated to the Japanese pantheon’s equivalent of Cupid or Venus, Jishu, the god of love grants couples who pay homage at his alter everlasting union. Honeymooners from all across Japan flock here to stand on the “Koiuranai no Ishi” stones which are placed ten metres apart, to see if they can make a safe crossing to ensure lifelong happiness with their partner.

Watch the Cherry Blossoms in Arashiyama

As a precinct that was reserved for aristocrats in centuries past, Arashiyama is the perfect location to go cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto. The Togetsukyo Bridge and the picturesque surroundings of Arashiyama in the spring season make it a magical space for couples to enjoy a quiet stroll.

Explore the Bamboo Forest

Also located in Arashiyama, the bamboo forest is easily accessible to couples based at Park Hotel Kyoto or any other Kyoto suites close to Nonomiya Shrine. It is another romantic hiking hub for lovers, with its dramatic landscapes creating the perfect site for many marriage proposals. Do not miss the year-round nature reserve where admission is free.

Take in the views from Shogunzuka Seiryuden

Shogunzuka Seiryuden Temple opened its doors in 2014, becoming an observation hotspot for tourists and locals who love to look out at the city below. Couples can grab a cup of matcha and head to this shrine’s highest point to marvel at the landscapes spread out below, looking as far as the Kiyomizu-dera and other popular neighbourhoods.

A Guide to Windsurfing and Kitesurfing in Maldives – Your Ultimate Aquatic Escapade!

If you’re planning to visit Maldives, water sports must be on the bucket list of things to do. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are both thrilling adventures you can try on the islands and enjoy the summer breeze and adrenaline. Here are some tips to get you started on these activities.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing | img via wallpaper flare

Best Islands for Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Islands with long stretches of the sea are the best settings for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Some islands are quite popular for water sports in Maldives and even provide the gear, guides, and assistance for those who indulge in these activities. If you choose Kandolhu Maldives, you will kill two birds with one stone! It has great accommodations and perfect beaches.

Can Beginners Learn These?
Beginners can try learning windsurfing and kitesurfing with smaller sails and utilise a good instructor to learn the basics right. Sometimes even a friendly local will offer to teach you how to windsurf or kitesurf. Be careful of the snorkellers and swimmers and choose less crowded spots to practice until you make it perfect.

Best Season

While beginners can learn and enjoy these activities anytime, advanced kitesurfers and windsurfers prefer the monsoon season when the weather is rougher and more challenging. The strong winds make these activities a thrilling adventure to try. Keep in mind that rain can always become an obstacle and prepare yourself!

Trekking adventures in East Africa

Allowing for effortless weaving between gorgeously diverse ecosystems, from whimsical yellowwood forests and snow-capped meadows to dizzying gorges shadowed by breathtaking peaks, there’s no place like East Africa for the beauty-loving adventurer.

Take on Mount Kenya

From sighting tree-climbing lions in colonial-inspired national parks, snorkelling in with multi-coloured reef fish off Lamu island, racing 4WDs down ragged volcanic craters to scaling alpine vistas, immersing in equatorial wildflower meadows, and watching the mighty tide of migrating wildebeest, the African wilderness brims with exhilarating experiences. While climbing gigantic, glacier-topped Mt. Kilimanjaro isn’t for everyone, the gentler routes and breathtaking medley of terrains of Mount Kenya make it a must-have on your itinerary.

Dive into Ngorongoro Crater

Whether it’s thrillingly intimate wildlife encounters, decadent tropical beach antics, or eye-opening heritage escapades, East Africa warmly presents a rich mosaic of meaningful moments. An essential bucket-list safari destination, this staggering national park, with its beautiful crater lake, misty blue heights, and yellow-flowering forests, is home to a wonderous number of intriguing animals, from Africa’s majestic ‘Big Five’ to gazelles, wildebeest, zebras, and black rhinos.

Explore Volcanoes National Park

From adrenaline-high night safaris amid mysterious swamps to navigating bizarrely beautiful volcanic topography like the Danakil Depression, East Africa has many extraordinary excursions to compete for your attention. However, gliding through the rainforest and spending some one-on-one time with enormously endearing gorillas should be high on your list! For an all-inclusive African Safari proffering outstanding amenities, venture no further than SkySafari.

Hike Simien Mountains

If you’re looking for a UNESCO-listed heritage sanctuary complete with cinematic scenes ranging from blooming tropical gardens and rustic rural enclaves to ragged peaks, undulating pastures, and rare fauna, set your sights on the Simien Mountains National Park.