Elephants in Sri Lanka

The most loved mammal in Sri Lanka is the elephant, with an elephant population of around 2500 to 3000. There are several places around the country to see elephants, listed below are a few of these sanctuaries.

Elephants in Sri Lanka| Img via Nature Odyssey

Yala

Located in the south-eastern corner of the island, Yala is found 309 kilometres south of Colombo. The northern part of Yala borders the Lahugala Elephant sanctuary.

Minneriya

Located 182 kilometres from Colombo, Minneriya National Park is situated in the north central plains. This is the largest known meeting place of Asian elephants in the world. Most Sri Lanka wildlife tours, the likes of Nature Odyssey, include Minneriya national park because it’s a great opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to spot elephants in their homes.

Wasgamuwa

225 kilometres from Colombo is where you’ll find the Wasgamuwa National Park, which can be conveniently reached from several tourist attractions. Spanning over 36,900 hectares, the best time to witness the large herds of elephants is during the months of November to May.

Udawalawe

The sixth largest animal sanctuary, Udawalawe National Park is located 180 kilometres from Colombo. You can spot elephants here throughout the year as they often roam in herds of up to 100.

 

 

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

Museum Bahari of Jakarta

Indonesia is a vibrant country to visit and its capital, Jakarta is a fascinating place to explore. Museum Bahari of Jakarta is ideal for you to go through the sprawling treasures of the rich maritime heritage.

 

Sunda Kelapa
Sunda Kelapa | Image Credit : Danumurthi Mahendra from Indonesia, Pinisi Sunda Kelapa, CC BY 2.0

Significance

The Museum Bahari highlights the legacy of Indonesia’s maritime industry. The museum is a symbol of the nation’s maritime activities, even to the present day. 45 minutes away from Citadines Rasuna Jakarta is where you’ll find this museum.

What to see

Visitors to this museum will see an entire range of maritime equipment and vessels, that were used by various nations across Indonesia. Historic spice warehouses built by the Dutch East India Company in the 1600s is what the museum occupies. Sadly, in January 2018, a fire ripped through the heritage buildings causing much damage to the collection. Nevertheless, the museum is open to the public with what was salvaged, enough to warrant a visit. For those of you looking to get away from the comforts of Jakarta serviced apartments and are interested in unique things, you’ll leave the museum awestruck!

Other things to do

The visit to the museum is combined with a few other things as well, as it is a 15-minute walk from Fatahillah Square, where you’ll find the entrance to Jakarta’s historic harbour, Sunda Kelapa. Located on the same street, you’ll find Menara Syahbandar, the harbourmaster’s tower which was built in 1839 by the Dutch.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Fun Adventures in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

If your holiday plan includes spending long days on the beach, surfing the waves, going on foodie tours and partying on the shore, then Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka is the place for you!

Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa | Image Credit : Николай Максимович, Hikkaduwa – panoramio, CC BY 3.0

South Coast Escape

This laid-back town can be found along the island’s south coast; it is around 98 km from Colombo, the commercial capital and is easy to reach via the Southern Expressway or by train. Hikkaduwa resort, hotel and Airbnb options abound offering accommodation for varied budgets.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Golden sands bordered by azure waters await at Hikkaduwa Beach where soaking up the sun is a way of life! Beachside resorts the likes of Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon offer the ideal coastal base to also enjoy diverse dining and the happening nightlife scene in and around the beach area.

Ocean Escapades

Hikkaduwa also features thrilling water sports; there are some excellent waves for surfing especially for beginners, while snorkelling lets you explore the local marine national park home to assorted coral and marine life. For more in-depth exploration you can go diving to hotspots the likes of Black Coral Point and Kirala Gala.

More Adventures

There’s much more to do in Hikkaduwa; you can visit the nearby Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya, which is a temple on a small island, see turtle conservation in action at the Sea Turtle Hatchery & Rescue Centre and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. There’s always something new to discover!

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+

Wildlife in Sri Lanka

The island of Sri Lanka prides itself for being home to a plethora of wildlife. A rare collection of birds, reptiles, mammals and fish are found in various parts of the nation making this destination a paradise for nature lovers.

Leopards in Sri Lanka
Leopards in Sri Lanka | Image Credit : Gihan Jayaweera, Leopard at Wilpattu National Park, CC BY-SA 3.0

Yala

Located in the Southernmost region of Sri Lanka, Yala is home to the nation’s most famous wildlife sanctuary. The city of Yala is located roughly 6 hours from the capital Colombo and excursions can be organized by many of the pioneers in Sri Lanka wildlife holidays and planning such as Cinnamon Nature Trails.

Udawalawe

Not too far from Yala, Udawalawe is yet another city that is famed for its wildlife park. Unlike Yala, Udawalawe does not house any leopards but the National Park in this region has an exciting collection of mighty elephants making it the best elephant sanctuary in all of Sri Lanka. Udawalawe can easily be accessed on your way back from Yala to Colombo.

Wilpattu

Wilpattu is the city where one can find the largest National Park in the island. Yet another home for the leopards in Sri Lanka, Wilpattu is also more often than not visited to spot these ferocious wild cats.

Sinharaja

A historic city in Sri Lanka Singharaja literally translates to the Lion King. Despite its name, you do not find big cats in this part of the country, but you do however have a large and lush rain forest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the rain forest is rich in biodiversity making it paradise for the eco-tourist.

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

A Desert Safari in the Dubai Desert

Embarking on a desert safari might sound tedious, but anyone who’s been on one would tell you otherwise. Want to know more about all the fun things to do on a desert safari in Dubai?

1) Sandboarding

The things to do in Deira Dubai are plentiful, one thing that stands out amongst the others is sandboarding. An incredibly popular activity, you are given the opportunity to ski from the highest sand dunes on a ski board. With soft sand to catch your fall, this is a thrilling experience which is also safe.

2) Falconry

Having a falcon in your life is considered an Arabian tradition. When you’re here, you too can take part by holding a falcon on your arm. While this may sound scary, it is rather amazing. If you’re looking for accommodation, there are a variety of splendid options around, such as the Avani Deira Dubai Hotel for example.

3) Camel trek

The camel trek is another activity that is popular in the desert. You can take in the gorgeous view of the sunset while travelling on the highest dune making your way to your camp. Here you can enjoy various food and drinks and relax with the beautiful environment around you.

4) Henna painting

An ancient practice that has existed for centuries in places like India and the Middle East, Henna painting is quite an art form.

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

Explore the City While Visiting for the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix

 

As an exciting, thrilling and all-around spectacular event, the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix brings in visitors from all over the world. However, while you’re here, check out some of these other cool activities.

File:MotoGP 2011 Malaysia Test 4.jpg
Fizal’s PhotographyMotoGP 2011 Malaysia Test 4CC BY-SA 2.0

1) Sepang International Circuit

This is where it all takes place. The Sepang Internation Circuit was inaugurated in 1999 and is where the first Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix took place as well. The circuit was well received by its fans for featuring wide straights and sweeping corners. The circuit has long played an integral role in the country’s industrialization. If you’re looking for a Sepang hotel, there are plenty of great options around like the Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort for instance.

2) Mangrove River Cruise

An activity popular amongst most tourists who visit Sepang is the mangrove river cruise. This half-day tour allows you to wind all the way through the lush mangroves and past the dense jungle here as well. You’ll be able to take in the gorgeous sights and listen to the sounds of the monkeys, monitor lizards, eagles and a variety of exotic birds.

Mangrove river cruise during the stay at Hotels in Sepang
Image Credit: Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort

3) Banghuris

If you’re into responsible tourism, you can check out Banghuris. This half-day agro tour takes you to a rural village where you can witness traditional wooden homes and how the locals go about their lives.

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

Koh Phangan Travel Guide

Backpackers deem Koh Phangan to be the backpackers’ paradise! From things to do to places to stay, this island has everything you need! Given below are a few things you can do if you do happen to visit this island.

Bottle Beach

If you are looking for an isolated shore with pristine shores and clear blue waters, Bottle Beach is what you are looking for! The beach here is fringe by thick jungle with palm trees lining the shores. Haad Khuat is known to have some of the finest white sand in Thailand.

File:Koh Phangan BottleBeach 22.jpg
Christian Fernandez Gamio (Golfer70), Koh Phangan BottleBeach 22CC BY-SA 3.0

The full-moon party

Koh Phangan famous the world over for its wild full-moon parties each month! Koh Phangan might seem like a calm and quiet place to relax, but the full-moon day, all those party goers get wild! Hit the shores on a full-moon day and you are sure to be struck by the party vibe too.

Per Meistrup, Full-Moon-Party-2016 DSC03418cropwCC BY-SA 4.0

Accommodation

Many a Koh Phangan resort is equipped with some of the best luxury facilities in the country. Hotels such as Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas are designed for maximum satisfaction where contemporary comforts are concerned. All you’ve got to do is focus on having a relaxed holiday.

Image Credit: Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas

Food markets

When in Thailand, something that absolutely cannot be missed is the night market experiences. Koh Phangan offers some of the most amazing authentic Thai food as the Thong Sala night market on this island! Be greeted by the magical aroma of food cooking in over 20 different stalls lined up on the streets.

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

Nam Tok Phlio National Park

If you are planning on heading to the Tok Phlio National Park in Thailand, take a few minutes to read this guide first.

Namtokphlio National Park | Img by: KAlexey via Wikimedia CommonsCC BY-SA 3.0

How to get there

From Chanthaburi city it’s about 15km, relies upon which course you remove from the city to the interstate; cycling from Tha Mai you will arrive on the edges of C city maintaining a strategic distance from the traffic, and about 27km, downplaying kms spent on Sukhumvit #3 by utilizing 3147, 3146, over the C River and 3348 which takes you to under 2km from the way to the recreation centre – can’t miss that one it has a colossal sign over the street where it meets #3.

Entrances

There are a few doorways to this national park which spreads 135 sq km, the principal passageway is on expressway Sukhumvit #3 that runs south past Chanthaburi to Trat. Many a Chanthaburi restaurant and resort the likes of Chatrium Golf Resort Soidao can be found nearby.

Walking In

Travelling south the principal sign you’re nearing the recreation centre (on #3) is an enormous Chinese sanctuary, and somewhat further on the side road to one side; 2km from here there’s a vehicle leave territory, at that point a few shops and the recreation centre doors. In case you’re cycling I’ve discovered the recreation centre security watchmen are very glad to take care of the bicycle, under spread by the watchman post.

Entrance tickets

Costs are standard for Thailand’s National Parks, 200b for outsiders and 40b for Thais and each time you have to show a Thai drivers permit to be permitted in at a less expensive rate.

 

 

 

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

The ancient rock fortress

Sigiriya is a must visit for those visiting Sri Lanka, as it is an ancient marvel. The extensive network of gardens and reservoirs, together with the rich history make this site a truly memorable visit to everyone.

Image by: kozala via pixabay | CC0

The formation

It’s believed by archaeologists that during the prehistoric times the rock was uninhabited. The rock was formed from the magma of an extinct volcano and provided different shelters, such as caves.

The entrance

The entrance to this ancient palace is flanked by the stone paws of a lion, which inspired the name ‘Lion Rock’. Previously, the entrance to the castle was through the mouth of a lion, however, the head collapsed, leaving only the paws.

The gardens

As you leave your hotel in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, the likes of The Paradise Resort & Spa to explore the ancient marvel, make sure you spend time at the gardens. These gardens are some of the oldest in the world, and an example of amazing urban planning.

The frescoes

One of the best-known features of Sigiriya are the frescoes you’ll find. These colourful murals depict damsels holding flowers, but only a few remain today. These murals are the subject of a lot of adoration, which can be seen until today.

The history

King Kasyapa chose Sigiriya as his royal residence, as he was afraid of potential attacks from his brother, the rightful heir to the throne.

 

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

A First Time Visitors’ Travel Tips for Thailand

The land of smiles as fondly called by many is truly welcoming despite the noisy smelly nature of some places. Culture shock may or may not hit you once you’ve landed, but then you’ve come to experience something different. Here are a few travel tips.

Thailand| Img by: 12019 via Pixabay 

When to visit

October to April is usually the peak season in Thailand. Summers are very hot and often are subject to little summer rain now and then. You could also come in time to observe festivals which take place from October to November.

Forgot something? Go shopping

Forgotten to pack in your favourite top? That’s too bad, but what’s brilliant is that you can go shopping for clothes from your favourite brands and for better prices too! 7-11 is the one stop shop to visit for basic items you might need.

Getting around

Taxis are quite alright to take to get around in the city. However, it would be advisable to agree on a price before you get into the vehicle. In the south, the taxis are a bit different. These are called songthaews. Tuk-tuk rides too may prove to be a good experience.

Finding your lodging

There are plenty of luxury hotels in Thailand. Hotel offers are available almost all year round at properties such as those by Chatrium Hotels & Residences. Homestays and boutique hotels are available too. Thailand can fit any budget so why not give it a try?

 

 

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+