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Must-try Water Sports in the Maldives

The beautiful atolls of the Maldives offer so much more than it meets the eye. Apart from the fascinating village excursions and the diverse cuisine it offers, the array of activities in Maldives – particularly water sports hold a massive attraction for its visitors.

Jet Skiing

Jet skiing is the ultimate treat for those who love speed – and nature! Set yourself free with this adrenaline-fuelled activity when you choose to stay at properties such as The Nautilus Maldives.

Snorkelling

Slip beneath the azure waters around the Maldives islands for an experience of a lifetime; explore the colourful reefs and the vibrant lives that thrive around them.

Banana Boat Rides

Here’s a fun activity to be experienced with your friends or family – get on an inflatable banana-shaped boat and get towed at high-speed into the shallow sea.

Parasailing

Attach yourself to a colourful parasail wing and be gently lifted into the sky (with the help of a speedboat, of course!) With this activity, you can experience the thrill of flying like a bird while revelling in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Unusual Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Not many know of the off-the-beaten-path adventures that Sri Lanka hides within – so they often end up travelling in touristy places and miss out on the best of what this country has to offer.

Experience Village Life
Ditch the rich towns to seek the true essence of Sri Lanka – ask your travel guide to introduce you to rural village life. You’ll even be able to enjoy the authentic Sri Lankan cuisine while striking up a conversation with the friendly villagers.

Fly Over the Clouds

Vnonymous, Penang Hot Air Balloon, CC BY-SA 4.0

No, it doesn’t mean plane rides – prepare yourself for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Dambulla, Sri Lanka with hot air balloon rides! It is an unparalleled experience to which you can look forward during a stay at a property such as Heritance Kandalama.

Climb Pidurangala

This is a lesser-known alternative for Sigiriya, but many tourists are only made aware of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climbing Pidurangala will help you to avoid crowds that make their way up in Sigiriya.

Discover Stilt Fishing

The fascinating sight of fishermen perched atop branched poles is something you have to witness in Sri Lanka. Visiting Koggala, Ahangama, or Kaththaluwa will let you experience this unique method of fishing.

Wildlife Safaris in Mozambique

In the African nation of Mozambique, wildlife safaris are not only land-based but can be experienced in the water too! Here are some of the best spots for such experiences.

Bazaruto National Park

Home to a protected marine reserve, the Bazaruto National Park covers an archipelago with several islands. Those staying here including at the property of Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas can explore the waters of the park and encounter dolphins, whales, sharks, manta rays, sailfish, turtles and endangered dugongs too.

Quirimbas National Park

Enjoying water-based safaris at the Quirimbas National Park is amongst the best things to do; Mozambique gives travellers a chance to explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which has thriving wildlife including turtles, migrating humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, leopard sharks, crocodile fish and more.

Gorongosa National Park

For wildlife safaris in Mozambique on dry land, a popular choice would be Gorongosa National Park. Apart from guided safari drives, there are canoe and boat safaris here too; on your adventures, you may spot elephants, lions, impalas, warthogs, baboons, crocodiles, hippos and not forgetting more than 500 bird species.

Niassa Reserve

The country’s largest conservation area, the Niassa Reserve is another wildlife hotspot with thousands of elephants, buffalos and sables along with many zebras and Lichtenstein’s hartebeests. Smaller populations of wildebeest, kudu, hippo, leopard, lion and African wild dog can also be seen for an unforgettable safari.

Top Things to Do in Oman

From beachside bliss and historical sites to desert landscapes and bustling souqs, Oman has plenty to offer; here is a glimpse into the best things to do on your holiday.

Spend Time at the Beach

There are some sublime beaches in Oman where you can not only visit but be based at as well. Amongst such popular places is Salalah home to pristine stretches of shore. Properties here like Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offer luxurious pool villas and water sports such as snorkelling, diving, fishing and stand-up paddleboarding.

Visit Historical & Cultural Sites

You can find out more about the country’s heritage by visiting key Oman attractions including the Bahla Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Sohar Fort and the Al Baleed Archaeological Park. Ancient Sumhuram ruins can be seen at Wadi Darbat, while the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is not to be missed either.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/pukomuko/, Al Balid Archeological Park 5, CC BY 2.0

Explore Deserts & Mountains

Amongst the best things to do in Oman is to explore the deserts be it the Wahiba Sands or those in the Dhofar province; you can enjoy camping, dune bashing and camel safaris too. More adventures await at the Jabal Akhdar Mountains and Jabal Samhan Mountain including trekking amidst spectacular vistas.

Shop at Local Souqs in Oman

Souqs are the name for traditional Arabian markets where one can not only shop for unique souvenirs but soak up some local culture as well. Such markets to visit include the historical Mutrah Souq with it numerous stalls, the Sohar Handicrafts Souk and Al Husn Souq, known for its frankincense products.

Cruise Around the Maldives

There are many ways you can enjoy a cruise around the Maldives – be it from boarding a traditional boat called dhoni to sailing around in a luxury yacht – and you can do so during a holiday spent at a resort on one of the private islands Maldives has to offer such as Naladhu Private Island Maldives.

The Best Times

Between November and April, you’ll find the driest months of the year when there’s plenty of sunshine and clear blue skies; this spectacular weather brings the ideal conditions to go on a Maldives cruise.

Image Credit: Naladhu Private Island Maldives

Why Go on a Cruise?

This is the best way to see the many islands that make up the Maldivian Archipelago while accessing numerous diving sites and accessing some of the most-coveted beaches all in one package.

Boat Options

You may be offered several boat options for your cruise around the Maldives. It is possible to embark on this journey on a dhoni, a sailboat, a yacht, or a ship.

Types of Cruises

From catamaran cruises and multi-day cruises to shore excursions and whale watching tours, there’s a range of cruises out of which you can opt for one depending on your preference.

Swim with underwater giants in Africa

Many travellers love Africa for its rich wildlife. They often talk about the lion, elephant, leopard rhino, and the Cape buffalo living here, but not about the spectacular marine life available.

Mozambique – an underrated underwater paradise

Did you know that Mozambique is home to over 1500 miles of amazing coastline? Diving opportunities offered by this coastline is not known, which shouldn’t be the case. The world should really discover this treasure!

The underwater life

This is indeed the place to go to meet the underwater giants. Be its whale sharks, whales, or the mantas, divers meet every one of them in their natural habitats during diving sessions.

Image Credit: Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas

Diving. Is it the only way?

No- Mozambique underwater explorations are also open for the non-divers out there. Snorkelling with the experts offers them the chance to meet the cheerful dolphins, and of course the whale sharks.

Bazaruto – the archipelago worth visiting

You may also head to Bazaruto during your holiday and enjoy the luxury offered by Bazaruto Island Resort managed by Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas. An exotic experience awaits you here while letting you enjoy many other places to visit in Mozambique.

Discovering the Culture of Botswana

While Botswana may be well known for its wildlife reserves and safaris, don’t forget this southern African nation has a rich heritage and culture too that are equally enthralling.

A Great Place to Start

For those planning a holiday here, a great place to learn about the local culture is the National Museum and Art Gallery close to Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino. Those staying at such hotels in Gaborone, Botswana can easily visit this museum which features exhibits on history, arts and crafts, culture, wildlife, nature, paintings and more.

Diverse Local Tribes

The people of Botswana are made up of various tribes, though the majority are from the Tswana ethnic group; in fact, the country is named after the Tswana people. The Basarwa, Babirwa, Bayei and Kalanga are amongst the many other tribal groups in the country, each with a unique set of customs and traditions.

Indigenous Music

Those on cultural tours in Botswana should also look to hear indigenous music which has its own identity. Passed along over generations, this form of traditional music incorporates rhythmic clapping and singing; also popular is folk music which features traditional lyrics and stringed instruments for a memorable auditory experience.

Traditional Dance

Very much a part of the local culture is the various traditions of dance to be found here too. These often expressive dances can vary from tribe to tribe and are performed at festivals and religious ceremonies or even for storytelling. Examples include the distinctive rain dance of the San people in Botswana.

Maldives Excursions Never to Miss

While the Maldives is known for its water sports, equally enjoyable and captivating are the many excursions on offer; here are a few which you should experience on a holiday.

Sunset Cruises

For those staying at private island resorts, one of the best activities to do in Maldives is to take a cruise on a traditional dhoni (local boat). Sunset cruises are the most popular be it with that special someone as you enjoy a champagne toast or with family or friends to take in and photograph this spectacular sight.

Deserted Island Visits

The country has countless deserted islands and resorts like Adaaran Prestige Water Villas offer excursions to some of them. It’s perfect for couples in search of sublime solitude where they can share a gourmet picnic. Trips for groups are also available and one can sunbathe and snorkel to your heart’s content and enjoy a BBQ lunch too.

Fishing Trips

Another of the exciting things to do in Maldives is to embark on fishing trips. Such excursions in the mornings are ideal to catch big game fish such as dogtooth tuna, marlin and sailfish. Some resorts even offer sunset or night fishing utilising traditional techniques, while your catch can be prepared for dinner the following day.

Dolphin Safaris

The surrounding ocean is home to various dolphin species such as spinner dolphins which can be seen on special excursions. Such dolphin safaris will be a treat for young and old alike and though sightings are not guaranteed, there’s a good chance to witness these marine mammals swimming or frolicking in the water.

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.

Best Adventure-filled Outdoor Activities to Try Out While in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a fabulous destination for adventurous souls seeking to indulge in adrenaline-inducing activities. They will have access to a variety of thrilling adventures during a stay at one of the 4-star hotels in Hong Kong.

Kayak at Sundown

Located approximately 18.9 kilometres away from Park Hotel Hong Kong is Sai Kung and kayaking across its pristine waters, especially at sundown, is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Go Ziplining at Tung Lung Chau

One of the most thrilling outdoor activities in Hong Kong, Ziplining at Tung Lung Chau is an incredibly exhilarating experience – get over your fear of heights and get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning cliffs and the blue ocean while you zoom over Tung Lung Chau island.

Spend the Night in a Tent

This is an overnight activity that you can do with your family and friends. Camping at Sai Wan is considered as one of the top picks from out of the range of outdoor activities that you can try out while in Hong Kong.

Go Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing at Cape Collinson is an activity that’ll leave you breathless till the end due to the magnificent views and the sense of extreme-adventure offered here. Climb with the experts in the industry with all the safety precautions in place and you will have the time of your life.