Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Morne Seychellois National Park

Lush, green landscapes home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, natural unspoiled beaches, and clear, turquoise blue water as far as the eye can see; the Republic of Seychelles has some of the most beautiful natural sights the region has to offer. So it’s not surprising that these tropical islands are a dream destination for couples, on the lookout for a comfortable and luxury hotel in Seychelles, which offers tranquil accommodation near the crystal-blue shoreline of Mahe, such as the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino.

Doubtless, the beaches are a main attraction for many, but not far from the coast, are forests and mountainous landscapes, just waiting to be explored. The Morne Seychellois National Park is the perfect example; situated on the highest point of the archipelagos, on the island of Mahe. The Morne Seychellois National Park is the largest of its kind in Seychelles, and covers over 20 percent of Mahe Island.

Dense tropical jungles, winding mangroves and the country’s highest peak, Morne Seychellois, are located within the park, and can be accessed along several hiking trails for either half-day or full-day excursions. While there are plenty of marked trails, the best way to experience the park is on a guided tour, where an expert will take you around the park and show you all the best spots. However, if you prefer to do it alone, there are also some easy routes you can try on your own. Several of the trails start from the nearby town of Danzil, and go up into the park, providing dramatic views of the island’s coast.
You can also take the park trails to Baie Ternay and Port Launay, the national marine parks. A haven for snorkellers and divers, the marine parks are home to eye-popping vistas and an array of marine life. If you head further north, you’ll find the Anse Major beach, a great place to chill and watch a sunset over the Indian Ocean.

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

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Safari in Minneriya National Park -A journey to the centre of wildlife

Minneriya National Park is the prominent national park in Sri Lanka for elephant viewing. Centred around the giant Minneriya tank, elephants from the park, as well as from the adjoining Kaudulla National Park, make their way to the tank towards late afternoon to cool off. Thus, the best time to visit the Park would be during the dry season, when most of the life revolves around the tank, which becomes the sole source of water.

If you are familiar with the country, you could go to the entrance of the Park on your own and hire a jeep for the safari. However, it is easier to make this reservation through your hotel. Jetwing Vil Uyana, for example, offers safaris that are dedicated for their guests, which means you will have complete privacy – as much as you can have in an open jeep – as you observe Sri Lankan wildlife. The jeeps are designed to accommodate 6 to 8 people at once. There is a tarp covering the open back, which is often rolled away if the Sun is not too severe. There are benches or high seats at the back of the jeep for you to sit on. However, most visitors prefer to stand, holding on to the iron bars that run the length of the jeep, to get a better view of the surrounding. The ride is going to be quite bumpy, and you must heed the word of your driver who often acts as a guide. There are leopards in Minneriya National Park, although sightings are rare. It is only by paying close attention to your guide, that you will be able to reap the maximum benefit of the safari. They are often well-versed in English. However, if you are worried, you could inquire for an interpreter from a Sigiriya hotel. At the end of the day, there is not much that words can convey when you are sitting so close to an elephant munching on coconut fronds, that you could reach out and pat his back if you want to.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Weligama Stilt Fishing, idyllic fishing village -Admiring an ancient craft

You might have seen fishing in various forms, but stilt fishing in Sri Lanka is a technique that would leave you gasping in awe. Stilt fishing an ancient tradition of fishing in the shallower waters, that is practised in several areas of the country, prominent among them being Weligama. According to State records, this has been in practice since the Second World War. Whenever it may have started, the skill of stilt fishing seems to be something that has been perfected by the villagers.
A long vertical rod is placed on the seabed, and a cross bar is attached to it at the height of about 2m from the surface of the water. This cross bar is called “petta”, and is where the fishermen perch. If you visit Weligama at sunrise, around noon, and towards late evening, you would see the men of the village perched on the crossbar, one hand holding the vertical rod while the other hand holds onto the fishing line. They stay in this posture for hours at an end until they get a catch. As per the tradition, no bait is used on the hook and is a simple battle of patience.
While walking to the coast of Weligama can give you a clear view of the stilt fishermen, the most amazing view is from air, from an air taxi. Sri Lanka is a small island, and as such do not have domestic flights for commercial purpose. However, certain companies like Cinnamon Air does flights for tourists that target on flying over more beautiful areas of the country. Thus, if you are able to take in the aerial view of the fishermen of Weligama, it is going to be one image you are unlikely to forget for the rest of your life.

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+

Attractions in Tanjung Benoa

An old fishing village turned a place of interest to discerning travellers all over the world, Tanjung Benoa is a truly Balinese adventure awaiting discovery. Over the years this picturesque spot on earth has turned into a sought after family holiday destination with the availability of ample family accommodation. Bali has always remained a beloved spot for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts and Tanjung Benoa is no different.

Adventurous spirits with a penchant towards an adrenaline rush flock to Tanjung Benoa to jet-ski or parasail while the beautiful white beaches and the relatively serene waves of its seas beckon the rest of the world to indulge in a little bit of sea world charm and laidback beach days. If you are looking for good family accommodation in Tanjung Benoa, you will find plenty of comfortable resorts such as Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa.

Tanjung Benoa offers plenty of pleasant excursions like fishing tours and banana boat rides as well as the latest addition to its list of charms, water jetpacks. If you are more inclined towards a laidback and an indulgent holiday, the calm waters surrounding Tanjung Benoa can accommodate your whims too. You could go for a quiet swim and be lulled into a trance amidst the calm and welcoming waves or take a stroll with your family on the sandy beaches, letting the soft shores provide a comfortable pathway for family time.

The beach is ideal for sunbathing with a delicious tropical beverage and a good book by your side. If you feel like exploring this old fishing village, visit the curious sea temples where sacred monuments made out of corals beckon explorers to look closely. The ancient Chinese temples in the area, on the other hand, amaze visitors with their architectural wonders and refined edges.

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+

Lunuganga

Lunuganga or Lunuganga Estate as it is famously called is a place quite immaculate in its design, laden with terraced gardens and a collection of personal arts and crafts. A curiosity in the south that is referred to as, the Lunuganga Estate was award winning architect Geoffrey Bawa’s country home.
Geoffrey Bawa was not just a man of the arts, but he was skilled in the field of law and obtained his degree at Middle Temple, London. Born to a wealthy lawyer at the time, young Bawa schooled at Royal College, Colombo. Bawa’s interest in architecture came after the death of his mother when he took to travelling around the world and exploring his passions. When he did realize his passion for architecture, Bawa soon left for England to study the subject.
Among the many things to do in Bentota, visiting the quaint southern country home of Geoffrey Bawa is a must do. The roots of this beautiful country house can be traced back to the era of the Dutch when it was first used as a cinnamon estate. When the country gained independence in 1948, Lunuganga Estate found its new owner to be a tax collector. History also has it that the country house was used as a rubber plantation under the British. When Bawa came across this beautiful country dwelling, he instantly fell for it and soon purchased it with the intention of converting this estate bungalow into a weekend house.
The house which overlooks the scenic Dedduwa Lake of Bentota was concurrently named as ‘Lunuganga’ meaning ‘salt river’. Bawa continued to turn each aspect of the estate into something artistic for the next 40 years until his death. What’s even more interesting is, the estate houses works from other renowned artists like Donald Friend and Laki Senanayake along with many Asian and European artefacts.
The estate is within a half an hour’s drive from convenient accommodation options including Shinagawa Beach Balapitiya. Since Bawa’s death in 2003, the estate is run by a group of his close associates and is open to public viewing. The Lunuganga Estate can be viewed as a symbol of the country’s rich history.

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+

Best Beaches in Sunshine Coast

In a country blessed with an unspoiled coastline and endless stretches of sandy beaches, picking some of the best beaches to visit can be more than difficult. Queensland is well-known for its tropical azure waters and sunny skies, and the sunshine coast is one of the best places to experience all the fun and beauty that Australia’s beaches have to offer. Whether you’re on the lookout for accommodation to hang with friends or comfortable family accommodation, Sunshine Coast has something for everyone.
The resort town of Mooloolaba has an outstanding beach that’s perfect for both kids and adults alike. A popular spot for locals complete with clear waters, golden sands and the myriad of accommodation on offer, like Oaks Seaforth Resort to smaller guest houses; you can find something to suit anyone’s budget. Mooloolaba beach is known as one of the safest beaches on the east coast; backed by a long promenade, the beach has a mild current, which is good news for those who aren’t strong swimmers.
Head further up north and you’ll find the Noosa main beach; a sheltered beach with waves that rarely go over a meter and are deemed safe for swimming year round. In addition, the beach is one of the few beaches along the sunshine coast that faces north and is patrolled, making it family friendly. A popular tourist spot, Noosa is more often than not, crowded, but definitely worth a visit.
If you’ve got surfing on your mind, Kings Beach is the place to be! This beach is safe from northern winds during the summer months, which is ideal for surfers. It’s also patrolled and offers enough wide open spaces to enjoy yourself without bumping into other people. These are just a few of beaches from a long list of memorable locations dotted along the sunshine coast. Wherever you choose to visit, just make sure to soak up the sun and enjoy the blue waters this great state has to offer.

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+

Windsurfing in Pasikuda

The rush of adrenaline as you zip along the ocean surface, the feel of a mighty wind propelling you onwards at greater speeds and the promise of adventure driving you towards the horizon; windsurfing offers all this and more! When in Sri Lanka, Pasikuda on the island’s East Coast is a great place to try this action packed water sport.

If you are an avid windsurfer or are keen to try this water sport for the first time, ideally look to find a Sri Lanka resort in Pasikuda right by the beach, offering easy access to the sea. Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa part of Theme Resorts & Spas is one option in the region worth considering.

A combination of both sailing and surfing, windsurfing features the use of a board measuring around two to three metres in length and which has a large sail affixed to it. No motor is used to power it, just the pure force of the ocean’s wind. Depending on your skill level and experience, you can be skimming along the surface of the Indian Ocean in no time, enjoying the breathtaking vistas of the East Coast. One of the great things about Pasikuda is that it is sheltered by a bay providing a relatively calm ocean playground for you to explore on your windsurfing adventures.

Water sports enthusiasts have much more to enjoy here as well. Snorkelling and diving provide amazing perspectives of the fascinating world that lies beneath the waves. Those looking for more adrenaline pumping thrills can try jet skiing, while kayaking is a great activity if you want to explore the seas at your own pace and get a good cardio workout at the same time!

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

Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary

The tropical island of Sri Lanka holds many wonders in terms of natural beauty, ranging from rainforests to resorts such as Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes. Following a drawn-out civil war, the country is only now managing to truly discover the wonders that are contained in Sri Lanka’s Northern section. Of recent times, various sections have been converted into National Parks and Sanctuaries, and when it comes to the latter, one of the finest examples is the Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary.

The bird sanctuary should definitely one of the top places to visit in Trincomalee, since it’s close proximity to the immensely popular beach-bound port-city of Sri Lanka.
The Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary was developed by the administrative district in the province of Mullaitivu along with the United Nations Development Programme, and was recently extended to include the panoramic nearby Nai Aru Lagoon. The lagoon is a mangrove swamp that is teeming with bird-life such as ducks, gulls, and various shore-birds. The thick rainforest surroundings prove to be a perfect habitat and sanctuary for these exotic birds.
The Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary as a whole contains a diverse host of bird species, with some cameo-appearances from other animal species such as Elephants. One species found in abundance in the bird sanctuary is the Commorant, one of the most symbolic birds in the world. The Commorant has been used by famed author John Milton as a holy symbol due to their wing-drying pose resembling a crucifix, and the bird was also used as a guise by Satan as he spied over Adam and Eve.
Additionally, the park plays sanctuary to ducks, flamingos, herons, pelicans and much more. It is a true bird-watcher’s paradise so if you ever find yourself in Sri Lanka, be sure to visit this incredible locale.

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+

Abu Dhabi Pearl Journey

When it concerns the United Arab Emirates, the metropolitan madness of Dubai takes centre stage, and is immediately recognised as being the major city within this Arab nation. The capital city, Abu Dhabi has retained a lot of the traditional roots of the Middle-East. The capital city contains many attractions that will enable you to discover the UAE’s amazing past. One such attraction is the Pearl Diving Adventure that is sure to be mentioned by any of the 5 star hotels, Abu Dhabi has to offer such as Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara.

The United Arab Emirates has a rich history of Pearl Diving, especially in regions such as Ras Al Khaimah, which was interestingly the original site of Abu Dhabi, before the population migrated to where Abu Dhabi is now.

When embarking on the Pearl Diving adventure, the travellers board a traditional boat known as a Jalboot, which is a very sleek vessel that is known to be one of the swiftest of her kind due to her sleekness and a particularly sharp front end.

Along the way you will pass many mangrove forests, which is an incredibly rich ecosystem that plays refuge to a variety of wild-life such as herons, egrets and flamingos.

During the journey, you will gain an extensive knowledge of pearl diving, through expert lectures and a practical demonstration. You will also learn survival techniques that were used by crews to live at sea for months on end. Towards the end, a session on the art of opening oysters will be conducted, and travellers will be given a pearl to keep as a souvenir of their adventure.

The next time you’re in the United Arab Emirates, think about embarking on an adventure like no other.

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

Yala Adventures

The 2nd largest national park in Sri Lanka, Yala is located in the country’s southern province and covers over an expansive 979km of land. The park is renowned for its large assortment of wild animals such as sloth bears, monkeys, birds, reptiles, the Sri Lankan elephant and one of the largest concentration of leopards in the world. Eco-tourists and adventure seekers eager to visit this beautiful park can easily find good accommodation among the Yala hotels, such as Wild Trails Yala, which offers Eco-friendly spacious tents with modern amenities.
A safari in Yala is the ideal way to enjoy the wildlife. Set off early morning with a guide to stand the best chance of seeing the animals as they roam freely around the park before the sun rises. Elephants, wild buffaloes and boars can be found near watering holes whiles the morning cries of the regal peacock signals the start of another day. The wild animals here are used to the sounds of safari jeeps and don’t shy away from people. Bring lots of water with you and ask your hotel to arrange a packed breakfast for you trip.
The main attraction for most visitors to the park is the Sri Lankan leopard. The native leopard is one of the most celebrated animals in the country, second to elephants, with the highest concentration found at Yala National Park. Because it is the largest predator in the park, it’s extremely comfortable out in the open, usually found perched up the trees or relaxing in the thick foliage.
Yala is made up of various eco-systems, from open grasslands and dense forests, to marine and fresh water wetlands and coastal habitat. Exploring each area is an adventure on its own with over 215 bird species and 44 species of mammals that include sloth bears, the red slender loris and golden palm civet in addition to sea turtles and crocodiles are just a few that can be seen around the park. Be sure to spend a full day roaming through the wildness to really experience the best of Yala.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+