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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.

Beyond the tourist hotspots

Complementing the more acclaimed and talked about landmarks that encompass the entirety of Phuket are these tourist stopovers that are well worth beelining for.

Ao Sane Beach

Complete with sprawling stretches of dense jungle that hover precariously close to aquamarine seas, the area referred to as Ao Sane Beach will be a welcoming retreat to head to. Although, known for being a tad out of the way, Ao Sane Beach which is in Rawai, Muang will allow you complete freedom to while away the hours on soft, powdery sands. Before you leave, consider immersing yourself in its refreshing waters where snorkelling can be attempted.

Shrine of the Serene Light

Located at 72/1, Yaowarat Road, Talat Yai, Muang is the Shrine of the Serene Light. Unveiled in 1891, the Shrine bears distinct features of Hokkien Chinese shrines with its single-storey construction and terracotta-tiled roof serving as its main talking points. Tinges of greenery dot its landscape which finds refuge within a lovely courtyard.

Thai Amulets Market

Make your presence felt within a cauldron of activity down Rassada Road in Old Phuket Town at the Thai Amulets Market. Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm, a number of beautifully crafted Buddhist amulets which have been blessed by local monks can be purchased at this marketplace. Prices begin from as low as 200 Baht and extend to as much as 100,000 Baht.

Sabai Corner

With a menu featuring affordable, tasty Thai cuisine, Sabai Corner is just the place to be at should you yearn for a fine mix of delectable fare and sublime scenery. Wedged between Kata and Nai Harn, those at this restaurant will be able to feast their eyes on the beaches of Kata Yai, Kata Noi and Karon. Such escapes can be easily planned out in the event you find yourself staying at a family hotel in Phuket the likes of Travelodge Phuket Town.

Don’t Miss These Hidden Gems of Guangzhou – Truly Experience the City’s Allures

Guangzhou in China has much to offer beyond the typical tourist attractions and here are some hidden gems in the city which you can uncover when you venture off the beaten path.

Guangzhou, 广东省中国 | Image by Max Zhang on Unsplash

Cultural Park

The Cultural Park, which can be easily reached from properties like Ascott ICC Guangzhou, offers an ideal respite from the bustling city and lies beside the Pearl River banks. It’s a great place to experience traditional Chinese gardens and features several courtyards with various relief sculptures and statues, some showcasing local legends. There’s also a venue here where one can witness Peking Opera and other cultural performances.

Shamian Island

A historic neighbourhood, Shamian Island is worth visiting too and is within easy reach for those based at a centrally located serviced residence. Guangzhou sightseeing on this island gives one a chance to explore a locale that was once the home of foreign consulates during the Song and the Qing Dynasties. As you stroll along tree-lined streets, you will come across European and Chinese architecture, colonial buildings, fountains, pavilions, statues, gardens, and cafes which add to the area’s old-world charm.

Hualin Temple

Another hidden attraction in Guangzhou is Hualin Temple which can be found near the lively Liwan Jade Market. Originally dating to the Southern Dynasties, this sacred Buddhist site has been rebuilt and renovated over the centuries. The main highlight here is a hall that features 500 golden-painted arhat statues with different poses and characteristics; also of note is the main hall with dragon motifs on its columns and three impressive statues of Buddha.

Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King

History buffs will love a visit to the Museum of the Mausoleum of the Nanyue King, built around a royal tomb which was discovered in 1983. Said to be over 2,000 years old, the site is one of the most well-preserved and complete Han dynasty tombs ever found, and the museum displays an array of treasures and burial artefacts; these include a jade burial garment, bronze serial bells, bronze mirrors, ceramic pillows, ancient seals and more.

The Best Tourist Attractions to Visit in Surat Thani

You will find that Surat Thani would be a delightful locality for nature lovers and sightseers, offering much that would draw the interest of discerning visitors.

Ang Thong National Marine Park

Nature lovers would be enthralled at the Ang Thong National Marine Park which would be an appealing natural sanctuary to explore. Here, you will encounter enchanting karst landscapes and limestone islands as well as picturesque cliffs and unusual formations of rock. There would also be beaches, lagoons and caves to explore. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could head on excursions to this marine park would be Santiburi Koh Samui which offers an ideal base to enjoy many captivating things to do in Koh Samui.

Cheow Lan Dam

The Cheow Lan Dam with its artificial lake would be a marvellous attraction for those who appreciate interesting kinds of flora and fauna. At this locality, within the Khao Sok National Park, you may have the opportunity to spot wildlife like elephants and monkeys in addition to many kinds of birds. It’s also a great place to get away from it all and enjoy nature’s tranquillity.

Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

If you appreciate enthralling religious attractions, you should undoubtedly take the opportunity to visit Surat Thani’s City Pillar Shrine. This intriguing shrine is believed to house the ancestor spirits of the city and accordingly, many devotees arrive here to offer prayers. This shrine presents an appealing sight when illuminated at night.

The night market

Visiting the Surat Thani Night Market is sure to be a captivating experience for the visitor. Here, you will find plenty of interesting merchandise such as clothing, footwear, souvenirs, handicrafts and other locally made products. There is also find an array of food stalls offering Thai dishes, snacks and locally produced sweets.

Discover the Wonder of Sri Lanka’s Wild Side: Embark on Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures!

Sri Lanka is a lush island brimming with astoundingly diverse natural, heritage, and experiential endowments, and there’s no shortage of spine-tingling adventures to be savoured.

Jeep Safari in Yala National Park | img by Hanavihash via wikipedia commons (CC BY-SA) 4.0)

Wild Safaris

Whether it’s the lush forests, glistening plains, and windswept ocean vistas of Yala National Park, where you can snatch thrilling glimpses of leopards, fishing cats, sloth bears, crocodiles, and peacocks, or the dreamy sanctuary of Udawalawe with its gently gigantic elephant herds and kaleidoscopic community of bird species, Sri Lanka’s jaunty wildlife-rich jeep safaris are always eye-opening and exhilarating.

Aquatic Antics

From taking on the surf-perfect swells, spinning across the jewel-toned ocean in a banana boat, or peaceful sunset kayaking at Bentota to kitesurfing over blue-green lagoons and racing 4WDs across the mesmerising coastal dunes of Kalpitiya beach, you can do loads more than sunbathe and sip fruity drinks at Sri Lanka’s balmy wavefronts!

Whale Watching

Dramatically beautiful Mirissa, with its palm tree precipice, secret beach, and jungle-clad panoramas, is also Sri Lanka’s Whale Watching Capital; you can set sail into the deep blue and get up close and personal with majestically graceful blue, sperm, Bryde’s, and humpback whales, as well as enjoy the playful trajectory of the native dolphins. If you’re looking for epic places to visit in Sri Lanka, make sure that you go through travel blogs such as Truly Sri Lanka.

Highland Escapades

Whether it’s the legendary Flying Ravana zip lining rush, chasing Instagram-worthy waterfalls, scenic mountain biking, hiking panoramic peaks, or the world-famous Kandy to Ella train ride affording arresting views of undulating hills and tea-steeped valleys, Sri Lankan uplands hide plenty of thrills underneath the rustic glamour.

Dhow Cruise in Doha

Considered a rite of passage for first-timers, embarking on a dhow cruise around Doha can be an unforgettable experience. Here’s what tourists can expect to experience on this excursion.

Timing the Tour

Depending on the duration of your stay in Doha, it is possible to schedule a dhow cruise for the daytime or in the early afternoon or evening. The advantages of signing up for a daytime tour are that you will be able to gaze upon the city’s biggest landmarks in the light of day and be able to distinguish the many iconic structures lining the shoreline. The night-time or evening tour is suitable for the romantically inclined as the veil of night lets one admire the city when it is lit up to the nines.

Duration and Tickets

Dhow cruises are at least 4 hours long and can be considered the perfect way to explore Doha for those who are travelling to the city on business or only visiting for the weekend. As various resorts and private tour operators organise dhow cruises, it is best to book your tour tickets online. Those based at Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and other reputable hotels in Doha can also purchase tickets through their accommodation provider.

Cancellation Policy

If you cannot take part in the dhow cruise for any reason or due to unforeseen circumstances, you can ask for a full refund if you inform the tour operator 48 hours before the tour departure time.

Meals on Board and Other Activities

Dhow cruises in Doha also include a BBQ or buffet meal while also offering travellers the chance to go snorkelling and swimming during the excursion.

Amazing Things to Do in Surat Thani: A Comprehensive Guide

Surat Thani, located in Southern Thailand, is a city that is often overlooked by travellers. However, this city is a hidden gem that is full of amazing things to do and see. Surat Thani is known for its natural beauty, delicious food, and cultural attractions.

KhaoSokNationalPark_2| img by BerryJ via wikipedia commons

Explore Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse places in Thailand. This park is home to lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and exotic wildlife. For travellers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Khao Sok National Park is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. You can take a guided trek through the jungle, go on a canoe trip down the Sok River, or take a boat ride on Cheow Lan Lake.

Take a Boat Trip to Koh Samui

Koh Samui is an idyllic island that is located just a short boat ride from Surat Thani. This island is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and resorts like SAii Koh Samui Choengmon. Travellers can take a day trip to Koh Samui to relax and recharge after a long week of work. You can enjoy water activities like snorkelling and kayaking or simply lounge on the beach and soak up the sun. Also, if you want to stay on the island overnight, you can benefit from the many Koh Samui hotel deals on offer.

Visit Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

The Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine is a sacred site that is dedicated to the city’s guardian spirits. This shrine is one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in the region. You can explore the shrine’s beautiful architecture and learn about the city’s history and culture. This is a must-visit destination for travellers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Try the Local Cuisine

Surat Thani is known for its delicious and unique cuisine. You can try traditional dishes like Khao Tom Pla, a soup made with rice, fish, and herbs, or Kua Kling, a spicy stir-fry dish. For those who want to try something more adventurous, there is also a variety of street food available.

Amazing Things to Do in Surat Thani

khao-sok-national-park | img by wallpaper flare

Explore Khao Sok National Park

Take a Boat Trip to Koh Samui

Visit Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

Try the Local Cuisine

Best Adventure Sports in Qatar – For that much needed adrenaline pump

Doha is an interesting place to visit offering stunning attractions that will make all leisure travellers from around the world to stay in this wonderful city. Here are a few exciting sports to try out.

Image via Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli

Desert Safari

You’ll miss a major part of your Qatar trip if you don’t go on a desert safari tour. The best time to enjoy the thrills and spills of a desert safari is in the evening since during the daytime it’s quite difficult with the scorching heat. Feel thrilling moments of a dune bashing session as you go by a 4×4 land cruiser. You’ll say ‘Do more!’

A game of golf

You might have known Qatar for its epitome of modern living and vibrant culture but now it comes as an appealing destination for the most discerning of golfers. Want to discover its incredible golf courses? Savour your stay with a host of social events, numerous leisure activities and dining options. If you are in search of one of the many best hotels in Doha close to the famous Doha Golf Club, try out an option such as Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli which is located 25 minutes away from the club.

Watersports

You’ll find no better place to try out some coastal adventures other than Oman’s huge coastline. There are many environmentally friendly beaches where one can try out diving, jet skiing, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boating and sailing.

Beach fun

If you are not fond of any of these water sports activities, you can simply choose a deserted beach like Bimmah Beach to have a fantastic camping adventure. Have you ever heard of ‘Norway of Arabia’? Excited to know and explore it during your holiday? It is worth a visit!

Visiting Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay, located in southern Thailand, is a stunning destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider visiting this breathtaking location.

The Limestone Cliffs

One of the most striking features of Phang Nga Bay is the towering limestone cliffs that rise from the water. These cliffs are a sight for sore eyes and offer some of the most beautiful views in the area. Reaching this beauty from Karon beach Phuket hotels is worthwhile, and therefore, do ensure to add a visit to Phang Nga Bay from your accommodation in Jono X Phuket Karon. The views alone are a treat for lovers who love exploring the seas.

The Caves and Grottoes

Hidden within the limestone cliffs are a series of caves and grottoes that can only be accessed by boat. Exploring these caves is a truly magical experience, as they are filled with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. This is the ideal getaway for two romantics who are beginning their journey of love.

The Mangrove Forests

The bay is also home to a variety of mangrove forests, which provide a habitat for a wide range of wildlife. These forests are a great place to explore, and you may even spot some monkeys or other exotic animals.

James Bond Island

Phang Nga Bay is also home to James Bond Island. This unique gift from nature was featured in the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun.” This island is a popular tourist destination and offers some great photo opportunities.

The Culture

The local people of Phang Nga Bay have a rich culture that is heavily influenced by the ocean. Visitors can learn about their culture by visiting the local fishing villages, where they can explore traditional boats and learn about the local way of life.