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Must-Try Adventure Activities in Maldives

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your getaway of beachside bliss in the Maldives, here are some activities that will add some exhilaration to your holiday.

benjamin-l-jones-XGygXrXUSGM-unsplash | Image by Benjamin L. Jones via Unsplash

Snorkelling

This water sport is one that the whole family can try and with the waters surrounding the islands home to thriving coral and marine life, you can look forward to many fascinating discoveries. For something truly memorable, stay at properties like Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences and go snorkelling amidst manta rays and whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll during the season! You also get night snorkelling that offers a whole new perspective of life beneath the waves.

Scuba Diving

There are more marine marvels to encounter deeper underwater which is why scuba diving is amongst the best things to do in Maldives for adventure seekers. Stay at a resort that not only offers the needed PADI certification and training but access to key sites in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. On your exploration, apart from vibrant coral, you can encounter butterflyfish, manta rays, eagle rays, nurse sharks, squirrelfish, stingrays, moray eels, turtles and more.

Dolphin Watching

Back above the waves, you can embark on a captivating dolphin-watching cruise at sunset. This time of the day makes excursions even more special as the skies radiate with colour as the sun slips below the horizon; best of all, is the chance to see dolphins swimming freely in their natural habitat without a care in the world. Amongst the memorable encounters, you can look forward to, is spotting playful spinner dolphins spinning or even leaping above the ocean waters!

Fishing

Those who love to fish are in for a treat since there are various activities to try including big game fishing; you get a chance to reel-in sought-after species like barracuda, sailfish, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and barracuda. If you’re looking to experience something different, you can head off on a traditional sunrise fishing excursion to catch emperor fish or jackfish. Alternatively, you also get sunset fishing using the traditional Maldivian handline technique.

Dhow Cruise Doha: Sail Through the Teal Water of The Arabic Gulf

Are you wondering how to make your holiday in Doha extra memorable? Why not take a traditional cruise through the waters of the Arabian Gulf? Read on to find out more about this unforgettable experience!

1024px-Doha_Skyline_Nacht_night — FLASHPACKER TRAVELGUIDE, Doha Skyline Nacht night, CC BY-SA 2.0

Where Can You Stay?

Are you looking through all the hotels in Doha wondering which of them to check in to? Resorts such as Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli and many others offer guests unparalleled comforts as well as central stays. So, pick your hotel based on your budget, itinerary and your preference of location.

What is a Dhow Cruise?

It is a traditional wooden boat which was steered by sailors, which is unique to Doha. Apart from its wooden frame, what set it apart was the two triangular sails which had pointed ends for the bow and the stern. However modern designs have one large sail which has been proven to be more powerful and efficient.

Dinner on the Dhow

Set off at dusk and enjoy watching the sun dip into the still waters of the Arabian Gulf. Dinner cruises are a wonderful way to take in the views of the city skyline from a unique perspective as well. Admire the glittering skyline from the waters while you make some unforgettable memories on your holiday in Doha.

5 Informative Facts That You Must Know About the Maldives

The Maldives is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, particularly among honeymooners. The island nation boasts a rich history, delicious cuisine, and a range of exciting activities.

The Maldives Is Located Close to the Equator

The Maldives is located quite close to the equator. And this means that sun rays will shine almost directly on you while you’re relaxing at your Maldives resort. So, make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin!

The Maldives Was Initially a Buddhist Nation

The Maldives was only converted to Islam in 1153 A.D. and today it stands as a proud Muslim nation. So, make sure that you leave any other religious texts, pork products, and alcoholic beverages at home when you’re about to head towards Kurumba Maldives or any other resort in the country for a splendid tropical vacation.

The Maldives Boasts Over 1000 Islands

The Maldives is formed out of 1,192 coral islands that are grouped in 26 atolls. These are peppered over the Indian Ocean over an area of roughly 90,000 square kilometres.

The Maldives’ Sand Is Smooth as Can Be

Usually, the beaches are made of sands that are made from quartz. However, the Maldives’ beaches contain sands that are extremely fine as they are coralline in origin. Coralline beaches are quite rare and represent less than five percent of the world’s beaches.

Cruising the Huangpu River

Dubbed the ‘mother river of Shanghai’, the Huangpu River is a 113-km body of water dividing Shanghai into 2 sections: Pudong (east bank) and Puxi (west bank). It is a great point to view Shanghai’s past and future.

Image credit- Unsplash,
Emmanuel Appiah,CC0

The river

A tributary of the Yangtze River, the Huangpu River flows through 10 districts in Shanghai. Its use is multifold, including shipping, fishing, and providing drinking water. If you are mulling over where to stay in Shanghai, consider booking hotels such as Citadines Jinxiu Shanghai located within an easy distance from the river.

The sights

On a Huangpu River cruise, you will witness Shanghai’s colonial past and trailblazing future. Many cruises depart from the Shiliupu Wharf as this is considered the most popular route for cruises. The west bank features the famous Shanghai Bund with its colonial buildings. The east bank is dotted with skyscrapers, including Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Centre, Shanghai Tower, and Oriental Pearl Tower. Consider a night cruise, as the city’s iconic landmarks are jazzed up with neon lights.

Cruise details

Various cruise companies offer different types of cruises, including meals. Cruise durations can be 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 3 hours. Be sure to check for updated information about departure times.

Best time to go

The ideal time to embark on a cruise is between March-May and September-November, as the weather is fair and temperatures moderate.

Snorkeling in The Maldives

The Maldives is one of the best destinations in the whole world if perfect snorkelling is what you are longing for! While you snorkel, it’s not just the coral reefs that you get to explore, but many more aquatic animals such as manta rays!

Best time for your snorkelling experience

If the visibility of the water is great, that’s what you need for an awesome snorkelling session. From January to April, you can expect sunny weather conditions and no / less rain means clearer waters.

Why the Maldives is the best for snorkelling?

Most of the Maldives luxury resorts the likes of Residence Maldives Falhumaafushi are located in secluded locations. These places offer the best snorkelling areas where the visibility of the water is very precise.

Tips for a great snorkelling session

Be mindful to rent snorkelling equipment only from certified agents. Since you are always provided with a guide/instructor, follow his instructions all the time. Don’t panic when you are in the water.

The average costs

This depends on the number of people you have with you and the number of days you require. Roughly the cost is around $8 per day and this does not include the applicable taxes.

Explore Water Sports at Pasikudah and Kalkudah

Pasikudah and Kalkudah beaches in Sri Lanka are not just for those who wish to sit back and relax! They are also ideal for those who love going on adventures and collecting colourful memories.

Diving

Open your eyes to something very exciting! Explore the underwater world and enjoy how the marine life exists in their natural habitats in the Indian Ocean.

Jet skiing

Jet skiing is for those who love the thrill of speeding! You may try this experience with an instructor in front if you don’t feel confident enough to ride it on your own.

Windsurfing

Let the waves and the winds offer you an amazing experience. Learn to balance your body on a surfboard and master an exciting adventure.

Banana Boat Rides

During your family getaway spent at resorts like Amethyst Resort Passikudah, here’s something that you can try out with all your family members. It will be a delightful bouncy ride on a banana-shaped boat, and even the kids will enjoy it.

Kayaking

Any of the 3-star hotels in Sri Lanka located here would recommend you a kayak ride if you inquire about a good relaxing water sport. Gliding through the water alone or with your loved one peacefully is surely a refreshing experience.

5 Days in Trincomalee

Trincomalee is one of the best locations to visit in Sri Lanka, renowned for its pristine beaches, natural beauty, and charming atmosphere. So, if you find yourself in this fascinating region on holiday, here’s how you should spend the next five days of your vacation.

A Day at the Beach

The beaches are by far Trincomalee’s star attraction, so why not get your tour of the region started there. Uppuveli is one of the best choices available to you in this regard, here the sands are white and pristine while the waters are nice and calm.

Go for a Dive

Most resorts Trincomalee has on offer – such as the Trinco Blu by Cinnamon – will include scuba diving in their itinerary. So, on your second day, why not take them up on this. There are a number of great diving spots to choose from in the region, all of which are home to a fascinating array of marine life.

Touring the City

On your third day, consider going inland to see all the wonderful sites that Trincomalee town has to offer. A good starting point would be the famous Koneswaram Temple – a relic from the ancient Chola period. Along the coast, you’ll also discover Fort Frederick, an ode to Sri Lanka’s colonial past.

Going Snorkelling

As day four arrives, it’s time to head back into the water. Specifically, consider a day’s snorkelling session at the reefs bordering the famed pigeon island. Well away from the hustle and bustle of the main city, this is the chance to relax and spend some alone time with yourself.

Try Some Seafood

With your time in Trincomalee slowly drawing to a close, it’s time to end things on a high note – flavourful high note that is. All along Trincomalee’s coastline, you’ll find a number of great seafood restaurants. You should definitely consider stopping by these and enjoying some signature Sri Lankan dishes.

Bangkok River Tours Set Sail Through the City

Sailing through the Chao Phraya River is one of the best ways to explore Bangkok. River cruises can take you to most attractions across the city.

Life-giving Chao Phraya River

The river snakes through several towns in the country, blessing it with nature’s bounty. When the Chao Phraya River makes its way to Bangkok, it meanders across the city. You can follow its path to experience different sides of the city.

Sailing along the river

There are many options available to sail the Chao Phraya River. But one of the best experiences you can savour is going on a cruise in Bangkok, especially one that offers comfort and indulgence. For example, Manohara Cruise company offers dining journeys. The river swirls through iconic landmarks, markets and urban landscapes.

Clay Gilliland, Bangkok along the Chao Phraya and Wat Arun (14881740197), CC BY-SA 2.0

Where you’ll go

You’ll be able to access a number of key attractions in the city from the river. The Grand Palace is perhaps the most iconic one while Khao San Road is (the party hub in Bangkok) is another favourite with travellers. You can also visit Wat Arun temple and the National Museum of Barges.

Mr.Peerapong Prasutr, Bangkok Royal Barge National Museum 4, CC BY-SA 4.0

Floating markets

Don’t skip out on checking a few floating markets along the river. You’ll find delectable food, local handicrafts and even toys amongst wares of the vendors on their boats.

Roberto Faccenda from Canale CN, Italy, Understanding the “floating market” (15801439261), CC BY-SA 2.0

Bentota river safari in Sri Lanka

Discover a whole new experience that is exciting and tranquil all at the same time. Bentota river safaris are extremely popular amongst all who visit. Want to know more about it?

Image by Hafiz Issadeen from Dharga Town, Sri Lanka, Bentota River in Dharga, Sri Lanka, CC BY 2.0

1) Where

There are tons of places to check out when you’re looking for accommodation, from villas to even a simple resort. Bentota is beaming with many options such as the AVANI Bentota Resort & Spa for example.

2) When

It’s best to visit during the months between January and March as its mostly sunny during this season. The monsoon season here begins in April and must be avoided at all costs. The wettest months, however, are between June and September. Another interesting time to visit is during Diwali, which falls between October and November.

3) How

Whether it’s through your resort or privately, you’ll find numerous ways to book a boat tour in Bentota. Most usually take around 2.5 hours and cost about 2000 rupees per person.

4) Discover

On your boat safari, you will come across all sorts of amazing creatures such as water monitors. Native to southeast Asia, these massive lizards grow up to 2 metres in length. The largest one found in Sri Lanka was a gigantic 3.2 metres.

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

Watersport activities in Maldives -Exciting must-try water sports

Maldives is a heavenly beach paradise where there is less land and more sea and there’s something for everyone between the turquoise waters and the golden sun.

Parasailing in Maldives

Parasailing | Image Courtesy : By Badr Naseem (Parasailing) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

This unique water sport combines speed with the adrenaline pumping aspect of lifting you off the ground. Participants are strapped securely to a harness with one end fastened to a speed boat. The vessel pulls you on an awe-inspiring journey that provides breathtaking aerial views of the coastal landscapes below.

Kayaking, Windsurfing and More

In a country where water exceeds land, you can expect a range of water-sports. Consider staying in a Maldives resort such as the COMO Hotels & Resorts that offer facilities for enjoying the sea and sunny weather.

Surfing Paradise

Most locals spend endless hours surfing; it’s a way of life here. Surf buffs will benefit from the massive waves brought on by the southwest monsoon around the months of June to September

Diving in Maldives

Blessed with stunning marine and coral life, the Maldives is one of the best places for diving. As you explore the world beneath the waves, you will come across vivid corals of all shapes and sizes as well as fish species including angelfish, sweet lips, butterfly fish, barracudas and even sharks.

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