How To Enjoy a Non Hiker’s vacation in Nepal

top vacation destinations , nepal
Phewa Lake , Pokhara , Nepal – Photo via Pixabay

Over the last couple of years, Nepal has been one of the top vacation destinations to visit, especially for hikers. But, if you’re not one, visit Nepal anyway – here’s how to enjoy your trip!

Bird watching

bird watching in nepal
Himalayan Monal Pheasant | Ryan E. Poplin, Himalayan Monal Pheasant 6, CC BY-SA 2.0

Nepal is known to be home to around 10% of the world’s bird population with over 856 species that have been identified. Online blogs such as The Vacation Gateway will also be able to provide other popular locations for bird watching enthusiasts.

Food

nepal food
User: (WT-shared) Shoestring at wts wikivoyage, Dal Bhat Tarkari,Nepal, CC BY-SA 4.0

There are many good local restaurants in Nepal which offers a fresh choice of ingredients and lean meats for diners. Common ingredients used in Nepalese cuisine include tomatoes, potatoes, yoghurt, garlic and lentils.

Adrenaline activities

nepal landscape
Lush landscape in Nepal , Photo : Pixabay

With beautiful breathtaking landscapes, Nepal is the ideal destination for adrenaline junkies. You have the option of rafting, paragliding, bungee jumping, riding on a hot air balloon or on a wildlife safari!

World Heritage Sites

Mayadevi Temple from South, Lumbini.
Photo Dharma from Penang, Malaysia, Lumbini – Mayadevi Temple from South, Lumbini (9244243566), CC BY 2.0

In addition to Nepal’s unique cultural charm of monasteries, temples, etc, you will be able to find several UNESCO World Heritage Sites here such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Lumbini etc.

Lakes

Rara lake nepal
Ardahal.nitw, Rara, CC BY 3.0

Nepal is said to have over 200 jaw dropping lakes with glacier origin. Popular lakes to visit are Rara Lake, Tilicho Lake etc.

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Bhutan Adventure Travel


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+

Diving in Maldives -Beauty of the world under

Anyone who ever plans to visit Maldives will surely have diving in mind, it is one of the must try activities on the islands.

Discover Scuba Diving
Img by: Summitandbeach via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

Diving in the Maldives is an extra ordinary experience as the clear blue waters let you see every colour and beautiful coral reef the seabed has to offer. Planning your vacation with travel agencies like Maldives Resorts Club lets you put together the perfect holiday activities for your tastes, be it a lazy day lounging by the beach or having thrilling adventures.

Best Dives

scuba diver
  Img via : publicdomainpictures

Literally, every island in Maldives will have a diving spot around it, and of them, all the greatest dives are at the Fotteyo Kandu, Kuredu Express, Okobe Thila, Kandooma Thila, Broken Rock and Kudarah Thila. These sites have some of the most vibrant fishes and are home to both soft and hard corals respectively.

Going underwater

Going underwater
 Img by : Uxbona via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

The water is not chilling and the temperature stays around 27 degrees throughout the year. Diving can be done during all the months except the monsoon periods and during the sunnier days, the visibility under water can up to an impressive 70 feet. Manta rays, tuna, eagle rays, a variety of sharks and more pelagic animals can be found in the open ocean near the reefs.

 

 

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+

Dampier Peninsular; A Must Visit Attractions

 

Broome, a tourist town that is situated in the Kimberley region of Australia has some of the most beautiful sights in the region, making for an ideal adventure hotspot.

Broome
Img by: christophe mallet via  Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0

Dampier Peninsula and Cape Leveque
The breathtakingly beautiful Dampier Peninsula has a length of more than two-hundred kilometres and is only accessible through Cape Leveque road. Natural coastal splendour doesn’t get much better than it does over here.

Indigenous Experiences

There are many captivating colonies of indigenous Australians present throughout this region. One can learn a great deal about their culture as well as the history of the peninsula, which includes the Sacred Heart Church, built by the indigenous locals and Phallatine monks in 1917.

Accommodation
There are many choices of places to stay available at the Dampier Peninsula. If you’re feeling really adventurous there are camping sites and bush-shelters, but if you’re looking for something more comfortable there’s nearby Cable Beach accommodation to choose from with options like Oaks Cable Beach Sanctuary.

Getting There
Making your way to the Dampier Peninsula is an adventurous task, and if you’re going to take the unsealed Camp Leveque road, you’re going to need a 4X4. Sometimes the road can be closed due to flooding so be sure to check the road conditions beforehand. Although you can get fuel along the way, getting other facilities can be quite tricky.

 

 

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

Ubud Monkey Forest Bali -Kingdom of the Swingers!

Remember King Louie and his kingdom in Jungle Book? Though you won’t meet the ‘King of Swingers’, you will meet many of his subjects at the amazing Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali. So, quit ‘monkeyin’ around’ and read this!

Mutante, Bali Indonesia Ubud Monkey Forest 01, CC BY-SA 3.0
Image Credit – Mutante, Bali Indonesia Ubud Monkey Forest 01, CC BY-SA 3.0

Where Monkeys Rule

Flickr user: D.Meutia //www.flickr.com/photos/dewimeutia/, Ubud Monkeys, CC BY 2.0
Image Credit – Flickr user: D.Meutia, Ubud Monkeys, CC BY 2.0

Also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest of Padangtegal, the Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the most popular attractions in Bali. This natural forest sanctuary is home to over 700 grey long-tailed macaques that have taken over the entire area as their kingdom. The locals believe that the forest is an important economic, educational, and spiritual conservation centre for the village.

How To Get There

Mutante, Bali Indonesia Ubud Monkey Forest welcome sign, CC BY-SA 3.0
Image Credit – Mutante, Bali Indonesia Ubud Monkey Forest welcome sign, CC BY-SA 3.0

The forest is located about 10 minutes away from Ubud City and an hour away from Denpasar, the capital city of Bali. There are plenty of options for accommodation – rooms and villas can be found within easy reach of the forest as well as high-end resorts like COMO Uma Ubud. If you’re driving there by yourself take the Ubud main road and go south towards Jalan Hanoman. This will lead you to a right turn towards the forest.

Monkeys Galore

William Cho, Bali – The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (2688748308), CC BY-SA 2.0
Image Credit – William Cho, Bali – The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (2688748308), CC BY-SA 2.0

Since monkeys are the main attraction here, there are many conservation efforts underway that include many studies and research dedicated to observe the monkeys’ diet, health, and breeding habits. The monkeys come very near tourists and this makes it tempting to touch and feed them, but you are advised against it. Why? Because they are wild animals and no matter how cute they look you always need to exercise caution. You are also advised to not wear any loose apparel or jewellery that the creatures will snatch from you.

Much More Awaits

Image Credit - っ, Pura Dalem Agung Padantegal 200507, CC BY-SA 3.0
Image Credit – , Pura Dalem Agung Padantegal 200507, CC BY-SA 3.0

There are three Hindu temples located within the Ubud Monkey Forest that are said to be built around 1350. They are the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal or the Padangtegal Great Temple of Death, the Pura Beji Temple and the Pura Prajapati Temple. All of these temples have amazing statues and relics.

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.

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Abu Dhabi Leisure Activities

The capital of UAE and a rapidly developing city has a range of leisure activities for visitors to partake in. Whether you’re staying in the city or exploring the beauty of Sir Bani Yas Islands, Abu Dhabi offers fun for all!

Desert Safari

Via-pixabay,CC0

Enjoy a scenic and adventurous desert safari ride on4X4 vehicles – a must do activity when you’re in the emirate. Some of the major hotel chains in Abu Dhabi offer this excursion for their guests. Sit back and get ready for the ride of your life on the golden sands of the Arabian Desert.

Archery

Via- pixabay,CC0

Archery; an ancient method of hunting, is offered by many shooting ranges across the country. However, those staying at any of the Minor Hotels in Abu Dhabi will be able to enjoy this activity, whether you’re a beginner or professional.

Snorkelling

Via-pixabay,CC0

Explore the refreshing waters surrounding the magnificent Sir Bani Yas Island during a snorkelling expedition, as you discover a whole new world that flourishes beneath the surface.

Nature and Wildlife Drives

Via- pixabay,CC0

Another popular excursion to partake in when you’re in Sir Bani Yas Island is a nature and wildlife drive. During this expedition, you’ll be able to a variety of wildlife from giraffes to Arabian Oryx in their natural habitat.

Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+

Discovering Hanifaru Bay in Maldives

Image Credit-Shiyam ElkClonerDharavandhoo Thila – Manata Black PearlCC BY-SA 3.0

One of the most precious marine habitats in the Maldives, Hanifaru Bay has a rich marine biodiversity and offers plenty of amazing sights to be discovered. Those lucky enough to dive here will also see a wide range of marine life that swim wild and free in its waters.

Where can it be found

Image Credit-Frédéric DucarmeBaa atoll islandsCC BY-SA 4.0

Hanifaru Bay can be found in what is known as the Baa Atoll in Maldives. While this site is part of a Biosphere Reserve it is also a Marine Protected Area. Those in search of a hotel near Hanifaru Bay from which to head to this site can consider options such as Dhigali Maldives.

The highlight at Hanifaru
The main draw at Hanifaru Bay is undoubtedly the chance to see manta rays. In fact, this site is known as one of the largest manta ray feeding destinations in the world. Little surprise that underwater photographers love coming here!

Best time for mantas

Image Credit-TANAKA Juuyoh (%u7530%u4E2D%u5341%u6D0B)Manta alfredi maldivesCC BY 2.0

When it comes to seeing mantas feeding on plankton at Hanifaru Bay, the best time to visit is the period from May to November. Literally, hundreds of mantas can be seen during this time and make for an unforgettable underwater spectacle.

Other marine inhabitants

Image Credit-Shiyam ElkClonerDharavandhoo Thila – Hanifaru Bay SharksCC BY-SA 3.0

Apart from manta rays, this underwater area is home to other species too including sting rays and whale sharks which add to the allure of Hanifaru Bay. Diving here is bound to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

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+

 

Windsurfing in Bentota Sri Lanka -Exhilarating Water Sports

The idyllic island nation of Sri Lanka offers many delights for the visitor from overseas and significant amongst these is the array of water sports that may be enjoyed on the country’s attractive beachfront locations.

The beaches of Sri Lanka
The beaches of Sri Lanka also offer delightful conditions for a number of other water sports. These include surfboarding and waterskiing, two popular water sports which are much loved by enthusiasts.

Bentota
The golden sandy beaches, the waves, the surf all bring about an exhilarating beach experience to Bentota, the wind surfer’s paradise. Being a popular tourist hotspot, visitors can also go on a river cruise in Sri Lanka offered by places such as Yathra by Jetwing, along the beautiful and mysterious Bentara River.

Diving
For deeper exploration, diving in Bentota is a great option to try. Those without proper diving certification will have to get certified at a training centre. You will be rewarded with a chance to experience mesmerising sights deep beneath the waters where you will find everything from colourful coral to fascinating fish species.

Banana Boat Rides
A banana boat is a type of large inflatable tube that participant can sit on; of course merely sitting will not suffice for you will also have to hold on and enjoy the ride as it gets pulled by a speedboat at exhilarating speeds.

 

 

River Safari in Galle Sri Lanka

Boat safari on Bentota River
Boat safari on Bentota River | Img. Crdt : Jetwing Hotels

Apart from the beach bound excitement, visitors of the west coast of Sri Lanka may engage in boat safaris in the many rivers flowing into the Indian Ocean. This is usually a laid back boat ride ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Where to find river safaris
The Bentota river is popular for these outings and is only about one hour away from Galle; a key tourist city along the west coast of the island. Thus visitors seeking accommodation in Galle boutique hotels or other luxury accommodation such as Jetwing Kurulubedda may drive down for a relaxed nature infused experience.

Prices
The Bentota River is used by most hotels and resorts in the area for jet skiing and other water sports. Boats are stacked in the riverbank can be hired by those wishing to explore the river and its mangroves. A one hour excurision will cost you about Rs1500.

What to expect
The southern side of the river is infested with dense mangrove plantations. This is a lush green canopy screening the warm sun rays. You may catch a glimpse of kingfishers, vibrant butterflies lurking about and even huge water monitors chilling under the sun if you are lucky.

Keep in mind
Tourist boats are usually supposed to have life jackets. Do not get on a boat without life jackets and make sure to fasten your jackets before leaving the bank.

 

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+

5 scuba diving tips

Scuba diving is one of the best ocean bound activities to engage in when you’re in Sri Lanka. Here are 5 things to keep in mind for a smooth diving experience.

Scuba Diving | Photo via Pixabay by joakant ,  CC0 Public Domain
Scuba Diving | Photo via Pixabay by joakant , CC0 Public Domain

Getting down
If you’re finding it a bit hard to stay under water with your diving equipment, fix your gaze towards the ocean bed, and slowly breathe out while imagining that your body is getting heavier. If you feel “floaty”, you are doing it right.

Always recheck your pressure gauge reading
This is often explained by diving schools or activity providers especially in the Passikuda, Unawatuna or Mirissa beach hotels such as the Esprit d’ici Hotel Mirissa. Anyway, if you miss it all you have to do is take three breaths off your regulator with your gear on while looking at your gauge. If the needle does not point away from the full position, then the air is on and if it bounces back up, the air is not on.

Trust your instincts
When in the water you are on your own. Therefore, if you feel uncomfortable diving deeper, don’t do it. Simply stick to your comfort zone and relax your mind.

Slow down
Diving into the pristine ocean can be exciting, however don’t rush or you’ll scare the fish away, so slow down and enjoy the view.

Keep a log
Keep a record of all your diving experiences to plan your next trip diligently. This is also a perfect way to re-visit your underwater adventures when you are old and grey.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Algarve Buggy Adventures

Portugal is a land that is chock full of adventurous prospects as well as tremendous heritage. A great way to explore both of these at once is through an Algarve Buggy Adventure.

Dirt and Dust

Buggy, Vehicle, Off Road, Sport, Nature

This is the most basic adventure in the various packages that are offered, and it consists of a short but unforgettable ride through the rugged Algarve countryside.

Cross Country
If you’re looking for a completely unforgettable experience then this is the one for you. Taking over a span of one night and two days, this tour takes you into the heart of regional culture, and involves a distance of more than 200km. The night will be spent in one of many Vilamoura hotels such as the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort.

Safari Tour
If you wish to explore the real Algarve, then this 3-hour tour will allow you to explore the amazing scenery, take a dip in a river, and sample local products ranging from freshly prepared jams and liqueurs while discovering traditional villages.

Buggy Adventure
This is the most balanced of all the experiences, and provides a six-hour long experience where you can explore the Algarve mountains with their national parks and rivers, have lunch at an authentic restaurant in the hills, and visit villages such as Cortelha and Querenca.

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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