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
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

Windsurfing | Image Courtesy: sharonang
Windsurfing | Image Courtesy: sharonang

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

Surfing | Image Courtesy: Kanenori
Surfing | Image Courtesy: Kanenori

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

Diving | Image courtesy: FonthipWard
Diving | Image courtesy: FonthipWard

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+

Bali Safari and Marine Park -Wildlife and wild life

This theme park is the ultimate day of fun, be it with family or friends, and is the island’s most visited animal theme parks of all time.

Wild Animals | Image Courtesy: By Yogwi21 (Own work) [<a href="//creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>], <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ABali_Safari_Animal_4.jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>
Wild Animals | Image Courtesy: By Yogwi21 (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The Bali Safari and Marine Park opened in 2007 and not a day has gone by since without it having a full house. Covering 40 hectares of natural habitats, this park is home to about 60 species of animal and birds, all of which are free to roam and enjoy the enclosure while in their natural habitat.

About

Bali Safari and Marine Park | Image Courtesy: By William Cho (Bali Safari & Marine Park) [<a href="//creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0">CC BY-SA 2.0</a>], <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ABali_Safari_%26_Marine_Park_(2688927963).jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>
Bali Safari and Marine Park | Image Courtesy: By William Cho (Bali Safari & Marine Park) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The majority of species come from 3 regions, namely, Indonesia, Africa, and India, including Himalayan bears, spotted deer, nilgai, bucks, African hippos, elephants, camels, zebras, ostriches, lions, and baboon. The classic safari jeep takes you through the different habitats created by man, and let you see a collection of wildlife you would otherwise have to travel 3 different countries to see.

Going inside

Wild Animals | Image Courtesy: Walter Lim
Wild Animals | Image Courtesy: Walter Lim

It takes one full day to enjoy everything the park has to offer, and for some nature lovers, even that isn’t enough. It is a different world in there, a world of magical forests and mighty lions and this visit is not something you’d forget easily.

Stay

Accommodation in Bali | Image Courtesy: By Simon_sees from Australia (Hotel Intercontinental Bali) [<a href="//creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0">CC BY 2.0</a>], <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AHotel_Intercontinental_Bali_(7373589284).jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>
Accommodation in Bali | Image Courtesy: By Simon_sees from Australia (Hotel Intercontinental Bali) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

After a tiring day at the park, all you’d want is a luxury wellness and spa visit. Don’t you worry, there are ample choices when it comes to spas in Bali, and one of them is at the COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali.

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+

Railay Beach

Railay Beach | Image Credit: By Mark Fischer [<a href="//creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0">CC BY-SA 2.0</a>], <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ARailay_Beach_at_Sunrise.jpg">via Wikimedia Commons</a>
Railay Beach | Image Credit: By Mark Fischer [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
If you set foot on a heavenly stretch of white sand running along the beautiful blue sea in the Krabi Province of Thailand, you can be sure that you are standing on Railay Beach.

How to get there
Once in Thailand, you can catch a flight or bus from Bangkok to Krabi or Phuket, from where you can get on board a small boat or ferry. You can rest in a Phuket luxury resort for some time. Many options like COMO Point Yamu, Phuket are available for this purpose. Another option is getting a boat from Ao Nang, which is a mere 10 minutes distance from the Railay Beach.

Getting familiar
Railay is a widespread beach with three separate areas, namely the Phra Nang Beach, West Railay Beach, and the East Railay Beach.

What to see
The Diamond Cave or the Phra Nang Cave is a famous attraction on the Railay Beach. With its naturally illuminated walking paths, this is quite a beautiful sight. The Phra Nang Beach had been named after a princess, whose remembering temple, the Phra Nang Shrine can be seen on the beach. There is also a nice lagoon and a high viewpoint, which you might enjoy seeing.

What to do
Railay is a famous spot for rock climbing, with a steady range of steep mountains that make the adventure somewhat challenging. Diving, Snorkeling, and Kayaking can also be added to your activity list.

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

Kayaking in Tioman -Paddling Away in Paradise

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
Kayaking | Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Lying off the east coast of Malaysian peninsular, the stunning island of Tioman is a vacationer’s paradise with its many attractions and things to do. Kayaking is one of these.

Beginner or Pro?

It doesn’t matter as kayaking is as easy as pie! Excepting during the monsoon season which extends from late November to late February; Tioman is a haven for kayaking with its calm waters. You have the choice of either going on an adventurous kayaking expedition or just trying it out by the beach at your hotel in Tioman Island. The distances vary depending on your level of skill. But, don’t worry most of the hotels like Berjaya Tioman Resort Malaysia or even the diving centres; will have an instructor who will carefully take you through the steps of mastering kayaking. Once you’ve used to it, it’ll be quite a smooth ride as most of the kayaks available here are stable and comfortable.

Where?

For a truly memorable kayaking experience head over to the beautiful island of Pulau Renggis. This is said to be the ultimate destination for snorkelling in Tioman but kayaking is quite a breathtaking experience as well. The reason why it’s so popular is that the waters around the island are really shallow, crystal clear and teeming with fish of many colors and sizes. So if by any chance you tip and fall into the waters, you can make some new friends! LOL If you’re in luck, you’ll be able to meet some of the famous turtles who call Pulau Renggis their home like Fred and Dolly.

What to Bring

Before going on an kayaking adventure, don’t forget to take with you a pair of flippers, a mask, some snacks and of course, the kayak! 😀

Fishing anyone?

After a long day of kayaking, you’re bound to become ravenous. So why not catch your dinner while you’re on your kayaking trip? The waters surrounding Tioman has a no-angling zone but if you want to fish, you will be taken about 2 miles off-shore with kayaks and everything to fish! After all, that’s where all the big catches like giant sharks are anyways right? Just kidding! You’re the only one that’ll be hunting. However, to go kayaking in such deep waters, you must be a pro kayaker.

 

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

Wild Life In Yala

Sri Lanka, the stunning tropical island has plenty of wildlife that makes safaris the most thrilling experience! From majestic leopards to giant elephants, animal lovers will find paradise here!

 

Yala National Park

The entrance to the Yala National Park
The entrance to the Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Dan arndt, CC BY-SA 4.0  via Wikimedia Commons]
Yala National Park located in the south east of the country is the second largest and most popular wildlife park. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1990, you’ll be able to spot many animals here!

 

Safari jeep

Tourism Yala National Park
Tourism Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Adbar, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons]
There are a number of safari tour providers around Yala which visitors can make use of. However, as most Yala hotels offer wildlife safaris such as WildTrails Yala, it’s best to book with them instead – to avoid any unsafe or scam tours.

 

Mammals

File:Sri Lankan Leopard - Yala National Park
Sri Lankan Leopard – Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Thimindu Goonatillake from Denver, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons]
Yala Park is most famous for spotting elephants and leopards. You’ll see herds of Sri Lanka’s magnificent beasts in the larger open plains of the park while leopards are often harder to spot and can usually be seen resting in the shade.

 

Birds

Eagle in Yala National Park
Eagle in Yala National Park | Img. Courtesy: [By Schnobby, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons]

You gotta have a hawk’s eye (pun well intended) when you’re at Yala Park. From the proud peacock to the island’s national bird; the jungle fowl, bird types are diverse and colourful!

 

Reptiles

File:Crocodile in Yala National Park
File:Crocodile in Yala National Park| Img. Courtesy: [By SchnobbyCC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons]
Yes, there are crocodiles and snakes. Plenty of them! Crocodiles can be spotted lurking the murky waters around the rivers and swamps.

 

Things to remember

File:Sign advising not to feed the animals
File:Sign advising not to feed the animals | Img. Courtesy: [By Tess McBride, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons]
Avoid making loud noises when you’re inside the park, as this will scare or aggravate the wild animals, especially since you’re in their territory. Don’t feed any wild animal nor throw your thrash out of the jeep!

 

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

Kung Krabaen Bay Nature Centre

Kung Krabaen, Chantaburi province, Thailand| Img. By Sean.hoyland (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Kung Krabaen, Chantaburi province, Thailand| Img. By Sean.hoyland (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Nature lovers will find themselves richly rewarded with Bangkok tourist places when they venture out of the city and into the province of Chanthaburi. The Kung Krabaen Bay Royal Development Study Centre, also known as the Kung Krabaen Bay Nature Centre, offers a stimulating experience for nature enthusiasts and conservationists. Due to its distance from central Bangkok, it is recommended to find accommodation in Chanthaburi when planning your visit. Options include resorts such as the Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi.

Open from 6.30 am to 6 pm every day, the Kung Krabaen Nature Centre was founded in order to conduct research into Chanthaburi’s mangrove ecosystem. The most remarkable feature of this centre is the 1600 metre long trail built through the coastal area’s mangrove forest. The wooden walkway is dotted with small pavilions allowing visitors to rest or simply absorb the ambience of the towering mangroves. The curious will be happy to know that there are many information sites along the way providing details about the flora and fauna in the area. There is much to see at Kung Krabaen bay as the mangroves provide haven to a variety of aquatic organisms, such as horseshoe crabs and mudskippers. The mangrove forest is also home to many water birds, macaque monkeys and civet cats which often emerge at low tide to search for food. At the end of the walkway, a pavilion projecting out into the bay offers visitors a scenic view of the mangrove forest and the river; a marvellous parting gift!

More adventurous visitors have the option to get even closer and hire a guided kayak to travel through the mangroves. Travellers are taken through the mangrove shaded waterways, almost at eye level with the animals in the area. Lucky visitors may also get the opportunity to see traditional fish and crab capturing methods used by the locals. It must be noted, however, that kayak tours are subject to the tide and prevailing weather conditions.

 

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+

Travel Around Sigiriya -There’s Much More to See Here Than That Famous Fortress

Located in the central highlands of the paradise nation called Sri Lanka, is a town that gained quite an international reputation. Sigiriya, as it is named, is a wanderer’s delight. Why? Let’s find out!

The Eighth Wonder of the World

Eighth Wonder of the World | Image Credit - Wikimedia Commons, CC By SA 3.0
Eighth Wonder of the World | Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons, CC By SA 3.0

A sight of pure magnificence. Built during the 5th Century, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an impressive creation by the wayward King Kasyapa who committed patricide to gain the throne for himself. The fortress has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to being “one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning”. Its international fame has resulted in throngs of crowds visiting the little town every year as well as the rise of many boutique hotels in Sri Lanka such as the Water Garden Sigiriya. Such hotels are also offering special tours that will take you through the highlights of the Sigiriya Fortress such as the Mirror Wall, the gorgeous frescoes, the water gardens and the gigantic lion’s paws which give the fortress its name.

An ancient Buddhist Monastery

The Pidurangala Monastery is located on the Pidurangala Rock which stands just a few kilometres away from Sigiriya. According to the ancient scriptures, when King Kasyapa was looking for a spot to build his fortress he found Sigiriya which was at that time occupied by Buddhist monks in meditation. He moved the monks to the nearby Pidurangala Rock and as a form of compensation for taking their former home, built a monastery there.

A Jumbo Spectacle!

Love elephants? Then this is your chance to see them in all their glory in the wild! The Minneriya National Park is located just 20-30 minutes away from the rock fortress. Why visit? Not only is the wildlife reservation placed among the top important bird areas in the country; but it’s also the venue for one of the most renowned of natural phenomena- the spectacular Minneriya Elephant Gathering!

Take A Glimpse Into The Past

Take a step back in time and find out the amazing history of the ancient citadel and the country at the amazing Sigiriya Museum. It features an excellent diorama of the Sigiriya fortress and offers a thorough overview while explaining its cultural importance.

Filled with wanderlust that seeks to explore distant shores and captivated by the colors and vibrancy of exotic cultures, Kanya Mae writes on the beautiful, exciting, and enchanting wonders of the world. She is a writer who not only has a passion for travel, but also has a background in fashion, art and media.

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Whale Watching in Mirissa -Have a Whale of a Time!

At up to 29.9 metres in length, the Blue Whale is said to be the largest animal to have ever existed in the world. Seeing these magnificent creatures is a must at least once in a lifetime. So head over to Mirissa in Sri Lanka, and feast your eyes on this glorious beast!

Where?

mirissa beach aerial view
Mirissa beach aerial | Photo by dronepicr , Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

The coastal hamlet of Mirissa is tucked away in the south of Sri Lanka, in the Matara District. It’s close to three hours away from the Bandaranaike International Airport so you will have to come prepared to stay in Mirissa. Accommodation won’t be a problem as there are plenty of options ranging from budget hotels and hostels like those by Yoho Bed to even luxury resorts should you want to splurge a bit.

How?

Mirissa Whale Watching
Mirissa Whale Watching | Photo by kwan kwan , Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

There are quite a number of whale watching tours available in Mirissa but do your research first, read up on reviews and find out what is best, because it’s very important that you go with a trusted service provider in order to avoid any scams or worst, accidents. The most trusted option would be to go with the Sri Lanka Navy, they offer tours that cost US$ 60 for foreigners (US$ 30 for kids). A typical tour would last for up to 4 hours.

What to Take?

Sunscreen
Sunscreen | by Tom Newby Photography, Flickr , (CC BY 2.0)

Sunscreen! Make sure to apply it way before you set out. And take care to also take a hat and some sunnies. Since you’re gonna be stuck on the boat for four hours at sea, best to pack a few snacks too. Some tour agencies offer this as part of the package but it’s always best to take some food of your own. And most importantly, if you’re prone to be sick at sea be sure to take medication for it.

And Finally, What You’re Going to See!

Blue Whales

blue whales
Andreas Tille, BlueWhaleWithCalf, CC BY-SA 4.0

It’s said that the waters around Mirissa are rich in plankton, a kind of micro-organisms which the whales feed on. Because of this, marine biologists believe that there is a resident population of blue whales resulting in constant sightings, especially during the peak season between November to April.

Sperm Whales

Sperm Whale
Sperm Whale , Amila Tennakoon, Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

and…Dolphins!

Mirissa,_whale_watching,_dolphins
Arian Zwegers, Mirissa, whale watching, dolphins (6782232766), CC BY 2.0

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

 

Whale Watching in Mirissa -Have a Whale of a Time!

At up to 29.9 metres in length, the Blue Whale is said to be the largest animal to have ever existed in the world. Seeing these magnificent creatures is a must at least once in a lifetime. So head over to Mirissa in Sri Lanka, and feast your eyes on this glorious beast!

Where?

Mirissa | Image Credit: Surf Forecast
Mirissa | Image Credit: Surf Forecast

The coastal hamlet of Mirissa is tucked away in the south of Sri Lanka, in the Matara District. It’s close to three hours away from the Bandaranaike International Airport so you will have to come prepared to stay in Mirissa. Accommodation won’t be a problem as there are plenty of options ranging from budget hotels and hostels like those by Yoho Bed to even luxury resorts should you want to splurge a bit.

How?

Whale Watching | Image Credit: Do Packup
Whale Watching | Image Credit: Go Packup

There are quite a number of whale watching tours available in Mirissa but do your research first, read up on reviews and find out what is best, because it’s very important that you go with a trusted service provider in order to avoid any scams or worst, accidents. The most trusted option would be to go with the Sri Lanka Navy, they offer tours that cost US$ 60 for foreigners (US$ 30 for kids). A typical tour would last for up to 4 hours.

What to Take?

Whale Watching Mirissa | Image Courtesy: Southern Whale
Whale Watching Mirissa | Image Courtesy: Southern Whale

Sunscreen! Make sure to apply it way before you set out. And take care to also take a hat and some sunnies. Since you’re gonna be stuck on the boat for four hours at sea, best to pack a few snacks too. Some tour agencies offer this as part of the package but it’s always best to take some food of your own. And most importantly, if you’re prone to be sick at sea be sure to take medication for it.

And Finally, What You’re Going to See!

Blue Whales

Blue Whales | Image Courtesy : Steuart Holidays
Blue Whales | Image Courtesy : Steuart Holidays

It’s said that the waters around Mirissa are rich in plankton, a kind of micro-organisms which the whales feed on. Because of this, marine biologists believe that there is a resident population of blue whales resulting in constant sightings, especially during the peak season between November to April.

Sperm Whales

Sperm Whales Mirissa | Image Courtesy:
Sperm Whales Mirissa | Image Courtesy: Blue Whale Mirissa

and…Dolphins!

Dolphins in Mirissa | Image Courtesy : Lanka Leisure Travel
Dolphins in Mirissa | Image Courtesy : Lanka Leisure Travel

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

Surfing in Ahangama

Image Credit | Cantaloupe Levels
Image Credit | Cantaloupe Levels

The tropical island of Sri Lanka; complete with soft sands and sunny beaches are the perfect setting for your island vacation. Ahangama is located about 20 minutes from this quiet town of Unawatuna, a popular tourist destination on the island, so if you’re staying at a hotel such as Cantaloupe Levels, you can easily get to Ahangama! With a number of options for a hotel in Unawatuna, you’ll be able to find one to suit your specific budget and style.

Most parts of Ahangama beach is known to be ideal for experienced or intermediate surfers as the waves are quite large and regular, but there are some parts of the beach which are perfect for beginners. With many surf schools and surfing camps around, you can get your beginners lessons before heading out to ride some amazing waves in Sri Lanka!

If you don’t have your board, there are plenty of surf rental spots around the golden shores where you can rent a good sturdy surf board to cruise the glittering waters of the Indian Ocean. When you’re done surfing, make sure to hydrate and fill your belly up with some island delights. King coconut is known to refresh and replenish instantly and is the best thing to indulge in after an exhausting day of paddling out to the big blue and riding the warm waves. With many restaurants in the area, you can also grab a quick bite to eat or make your way back to your hotel for some rest and relaxation.

The beaches in southern Sri Lanka are best known for being popular with surfers and snorkelers. Therefore if you’re looking for a relaxing activity after a day surfing, rent a pair of snorkels and explore the colourful variety of marine creatures swimming around the lively reefs in the south.

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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