Why Sri Lanka is a Trending Destination in the World!

Sri Lanka is a trending destination with more and more people paying attention to the little island that is known by so many names including paradise island. Here’s why:

Whale Watching
Whale Watching | Image Credit : DammikaD, Whale watching in Mirissa, CC BY-SA 4.0

1. It’s Wild

Dive into the oceans to see whales and dolphins all year long. Sri Lanka is the best place to go on marine safaris and that’s not all, there are also over 5800 elephants in the wild and the largest density of leopards in the world.

2. Cricket in Galle

There’s always plenty of cricket to go around, and where better to enjoy a match than in Galle under the shadow of the Dutch colonial fort?

3. The Ministry of Crab

There’s an entire ministry of crab! It is a restaurant where you can eat gourmet styled Sri Lankan chili crab – an expensive and delicious delicacy. It is one of the most visit places suggested by tour agencies like Walker Tours.

4. Atmospheric Caves

Take a tour in Sri Lanka and discover the magic of ancient kingdoms in cave paintings, from Dambulla and its depictions of Buddhism to the prehistory of the Fa Hien Caves.

5. Take a Train

Taking a train in Sri Lanka is unlike taking a train in any other country thanks to their sprawling and scenic routes. It’s all about the journey not the destination!

Top Places to Visit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur offers plenty of adventures for the whole family. Here are some of the key attractions in KL well worth visiting on your holiday.

Petronas Twin Towers

Iconic and inspiring, the Petronas Twin Towers is a stunning modern marvel that spans a total of 88 storeys. When searching for the best hotels & resorts in Malaysia, do look to stay close to this attraction which offers amazing panoramas from the Skybridge that connects the two towers.

Image Credit: Berjaya Hotels & Resorts

Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)

One of the most dynamic areas in the city, the Kuala Lumpur City Centre is where you will not only find the Petronas Twin Towers but a host of other attractions too. Within easy reach of many city properties including those belonging to Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, these sites include the Suria KLCC Shopping Complex, Petrosains, The Discovery Centre and Aquaria KLCC.

Jakub MichankowKuala Lumpur City CentreCC BY 2.0

Bukit Bintang

One of the key areas for shopaholics, Bukit Bintang is home to some of the city’s most popular shopping hubs. Retail therapy abounds in this locale where you can shop to your heart’s content at malls the likes of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Times Square, Fahrenheit 88 and Sungei Wang Plaza.

Patrice78500Bukit Bintang, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

Central Market

One of the historic attractions in Kuala Lumpur, the Central Market dates back to the 1880s; within this heritage site, you will find a number of traders selling souvenirs, batiks, handicrafts, sculptures, artworks, clothing and more. It also has food stalls which give you a chance to sample some yummy local dishes.

 

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Places You Can’t-miss in Doha

The capital city of Qatar- the rich country of Doha has now become a great tourist destination due to its availability of multiple attractions, luxury accommodation options, and good infrastructure.

Doha International Airport
If you spend your Doha holiday in a resort the likes of Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli, why not go and visit the 27th busiest airport- the Doha International Airport? It is just a 15-minute ride from the hotel.

The Rumeila Park
All 5-star hotels in Doha offer you the same experiences sometimes. This is the moment you will need a change and at the Rumeila Park, you find a good diversity. It has an art gallery; an outdoor theatre and a kids’ play area too to make your moments amazing!

Doha Heritage Village
The heritage village hosts several events that are well-loved by tourists all around the world. And here, you can also explore several historical monuments like the Al Koot Fort and the Clock Tower.

The Al Zunara Fort
This is an archaeological center, that you should visit especially if you would love to see Arabic books and a collection of many other books as well.

 

48 Hours in Doha

Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a brief excursion, Doha is the perfect destination for a 48-hour romp in a cosmopolitan setting. Here are some of the best things to do during a sojourn in Doha.

 

Retail Mecca

Regarded as one of the world’s leading shopping destinations, it should come as no surprise that most of one’s time in Doha will be spent exploring its exclusive boutiques and mammoth department stores. Some of the best shopping venues in the city of Doha include The Villaggio where local designer boutiques and globally renowned brands all share space. A shopping spree in the Souq Waqif traditional market is also a must as one can find everything from handicrafts and spices to bronze work and clothing in this maze of a marketplace.

Wine and Dine

Revered as a foodie’s paradise, wining and dining is a serious affair when in Doha. Offering visitors an array of restaurants serving up nearly every cuisine known to man, exploring the local culinary treats such as hummus, baba ganoush and tabbouleh is just the tip of the iceberg. Al Mourjan, Ard Canaan and Parisa are arguably the best eateries in the city in addition to the fine dining establishments at Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli and other similar 5 star hotels in Doha are also excellent.

Desert Safari

No two day trip to Doha would be complete without enjoying an adventure in the desert such as a safari across the arid landscapes bordering the city. A half a day desert safari includes a camel ride and opportunities to go dune bashing like a pro.

15 Hours in Doha, Qatar

There’s plenty to see and experience if one has a mere 15 minutes in the capital of Qatar. Here are some of the most enjoyable ways to spend half a day in Doha city.

Explore Souq Waqif
Those who want to experience a crash course in Qatari culture should spend a few hours exploring the labyrinthine web of alleys at the Souq Waqif. As one of the most extensive and traditional retail spaces in the city, the exquisite architecture, the conventional wares for sale and the merchant shops allow visitors to truly experience local culture and enjoy a shopping spree at the same time. The venue is also home to a host of food stalls selling traditional sweets and other meals so one can also dine one’s way through this ancient marketplace.

Relax at the Doha Corniche
Tipped to be one of the most popular recreational hotspots in the city, the Corniche looks out over the breathtaking Doha Bay and is a seaside promenade lined with shops, food vendors and other leisure facilities. A trip to the Doha Corniche also allows visitors to pop by the Museum of Islamic Art which is situated nearby.

Tour the Al Zubarah Fort
Regardless of the time available, a tour of the iconic Al Zubarah Fort is a must for all first-time visitors. Located inside the Al Zubarah town which is one of Doha’s best known UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the beautifully preserved defence fort is a prime example of an 18th-19th-century structure. Those who secure a room at Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli or any other 5 star hotels in Doha can visit the site before their departure time.

 

 

 

Tourism in Doha

The city of Doha is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf in the east of Qatar. Here’s some more information and a few places you can visit during your time there!

Overview
Considered as a ‘world city’ by the Globalisation and World Cities Research Network and in 2015, Doha was considered one of the ‘New7Winders Cities. The majority of the population living in Doha are Muslims, however, you’ll also find plenty of Catholics in the city.

Museum of Islamic Art
Boasting a world-class collection that spans 1400 years, the Museum of Islamic Art allows it’s visitors to gain a broad insight into the world of art, together with its rich history. Just 11 minutes from Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli and other such hotels in Doha, Qatar, this museum is quite an experience.

Souq Waqif
Your trip to Doha is incomplete if you do not visit Souq Waqif, a vibrant complex with an atmosphere that’s unmatched. Built on an ancient market site, Souq Waqif is known to be the social heart of Doha. The market is a true journey to the past, showing the old Qatari village lifestyle in the best way possible.

Doha Corniche
If you’re looking for just a relaxing stroll, the Doha Corniche is the answer. The corniche was built to reach from one end of the city to the other, the view from the corniche is amazing!

Art Galleries in Doha, Qatar

If you are staying in one of the hotels in Doha and hope to take a couple of days to explore, make sure that you put the famous art galleries into your list. Here are a few you can consider.

1. Museum of Islamic Art
Called the Mathaf Al-Fann Al-Islami, the Museum of Islamic Art was built in 2008 and holds works of art taken from across central Asia and the Middle East.

2. National Museum of Qatar
Considered one of the most important places to learn of the culture of Qatar, the National Museum of Qatar. It was designed by Jean Nouvel who is an award-winning French architect.

3. Arab Museum of Modern Art
Considered the hub of modern and contemporary Arabian art, the Arab Museum of Art is situated about 15 km away from Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli. You could incorporate it into your adventures for a day.

4. ALRIWAQ
A non-collection-based exhibition space was built in 2010 and is very closely situated to the Museum of Islamic Art. It has played host to some of the most famous art shows and continues to put Doha on the map when it comes to international art exhibitions.

5. Katara Art Centre
Dedicated to showcasing art and culture in a modern and contemporary sense. The Katara Art Centre and Cultural Village is a place by the sea full of art spaces, music stages and eateries. Experience the culture of the Qatari.

 

Amazing Attractions in Langkawi

Surrounded by the beauty of the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is a destination where adventure abounds with plenty to see and experience for the whole family.

Langkawi Cable Car & Sky Bridge

Here are two great experiences in one; head to Oriental Village, a short drive from Berjaya Langkawi Resort, and take a breathtaking cable car ride to the summit of Mt. Mat Cincang. At the top, you will find the 124-metre-long Langkawi Sky Bridge which offers even more inspiring panoramas, 700 metres above sea level!

Image by ZHI ZENG from Pixabay 

Umgawa Legendary Adventures

A thrilling way to immerse yourself in nature, Umgawa Legendary Adventures provides exciting ziplining experiences that are a perfect addition to your holiday at a Langkawi resort. Be it zip lining past waterfalls, or rainforests amidst the scenic backdrop of Langkawi Geopark, this attraction has much to offer and features several sky-bridges and abseiling as well.

Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls

Referred to as the Seven Wells Waterfalls, this pictures site is a stunning attraction that is known for its seven connected natural pools. Of course, if you want more adventure, you can plan a hike up to the summit of the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and spot wildlife on your journey too.

Langkawi Wildlife Park

Offering a fun day out for the whole family, the Langkawi Wildlife Park is home to more than 2,500 birds including hornbills, flamingos, eagles and owls and features a huge walk-in aviary. You will also find a variety of animals here like rabbits, deer, raccoons and monkeys along with interactive wildlife experiences.

 

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Getting to Know Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a favourite romantic hideaway to many and a favourite destination among many beach lovers too. Because of its ample availability of pristine beaches, it is a perfect destination for adventure seekers and leisure travellers who need a real change in their lives.

Getting here

From Bangkok and Phuket, it’s just an hour’s flight away and does not require you to go through any hassle. After you arrive at Koh Samui if accommodation is your next concern. Do not worry, the city has many options the likes of Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort which are loved especially by tourists.

Image Credit: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

Exploring the beaches

As this is a beach paradise, you find several beaches with unique characteristics. Chaweng Beach is known as one of the best beaches, around which many Chaweng beach resorts are also located. Lamai Beach and BoPhut Beach are some other options if you want a list.

Exploring the Nathon Town

This is a cosy little township that has a commercial and administrative significance. You’ll be surprised to hear that this is literally the only town Koh Samui has because you find all features such as shopping areas, dining areas in it.

Per Meistrup, Thai-Night-market wIMG 3912CC BY-SA 4.0

Exploring the touch of Buddhism in the city

Big Buddha is a beach town and owns one of the most serene and clean beaches that Koh Samui has. If you wonder why the name goes like this, it’s because of the giant Buddha Statue located here, that is quite loved by tourists who visit this city.

Image Credit: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

 

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

Elephants in Sri Lanka

An iconic animal, elephants in Sri Lanka are very much a part of the island’s identity. However, conservation efforts are vital if these gentle giants are to survive.

Image credit- Pixabay,photoliver,CC0

Endemic Species
The largest subspecies of the Asian elephant, the Sri Lankan Elephant (Elephas maximus maximus) is endemic to the island. While the country was once home to around 20,000 elephants, currently there are only about 5,000 some of which can be seen on a safari tour in Sri Lanka.

Elephant Safaris
National parks including those at Minneriya, Yala, Udawalawe and Kaudulla are ideal for elephant safaris organised by tour specialists such as Walkers Tours. One of the key elephant hotspots is Minneriya where between June and September you can witness “The Gathering” that features hundreds of elephants in and around the park’s reservoir.

Human-Elephant Conflict
Sadly, due to the expansion of human habitation and the loss of natural habitats, the human-elephant conflict has claimed many lives, mostly elephants. Farmers and villagers look to protect their crops and lands, while elephants are driven to find food and water; this deadly cycle continues every year. Throw illegal poaching into the mix and you will see why elephant conservation is vital.

Conservation Efforts
Amongst the efforts being made to conserve this endangered animal is the introduction of tougher penalties for those harming or poaching wild elephants. Other initiatives include using electrical fences or infrared alarm systems to keep out elephants from human habitations without harming them and the proposed setting up of Managed Elephant Reserves (MER). Hopefully, such efforts will help in conserving these majestic animals.

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+