Stilt Fishermen of Ahangama

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, is a true paradise island. It is famous for its tropical beaches, the best of which can be found along the country’s south coast. Travelling south from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, you will arrive at Hikkaduwa. Hotels, bars and eateries dot the beachfront, marking it as a popular spot for holidaymakers who never want to be far from the ocean. Hikkaduwa has also become the venue of the infamous ‘Hikka Fest’, a recurring beach party that happens around midyear. The party continues for five straight days and nights; it includes music, food, competitions and other activities. To experience Sri Lanka’s party beach by night and water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing and glass bottom boat rides by day; check into Citrus Hikkaduwa.

Further along the Southern Expressway you will encounter the deep down south of Sri Lanka. Here, the village of Ahangama is home to a small fishing community that is famous for its unique fishing technique. The technique known as stilt fishing is an old tradition still practiced by fishermen today.

The fishermen usually set up their posts at sunrise, noon and sunset in an effort to snap up the best catch. A vertical pole is driven into the sea bed; while a cross bar, known as a ‘petta’ is attached at a midway point. This is used by the fisher folk to perform their incredible balancing act. Each fisherman takes his place and balances about two metres above the crashing waves. The amazing feat is performed with one hand holding the stilt and the other a fishing rod or line. Any fish that are caught are then kept in a plastic bag tied around their waist or to the pole. The catch usually consists of spotted herring and small mackerel.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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The Vieng Xai caves

The Vieng Xai caves are a widespread network of caves that were home to about 23,000 people during the Vietnam War. It was virtually a hidden city and is now open to the public as a tourist attraction.

The city of Vientiane is the capital of Laos and is located on the banks of the Mekong River. It is also within close proximity to the Vieng Xai caves. If you are travelling to Laos, staying in Vientiane, serviced apartments would be a good option to consider as your accommodation. The Somerset Vientiane has been a popular choice among those touring the region and making a day trip to the Vieng Xai caves.

The Vieng Xai caves are located in the northeast of Laos in the Hua Phan province, right next to the border of Vietnam. The region that comprises of the caves is renowned for being the headquarters of the Communist Pathet Lao forces during their struggle with the Lao Royal family in Vientiane. This was also the same time that the Vietnam War was underway.

The caves were home to the Communist army during the period. Comprising of a hospital, military barracks, markets, living spaces, bakeries, shops and theatre, the Vieng Xai caves, functioned as a mini city during the war. The caves even had printing presses and government offices. Even the Pathet Lao force’s leaders were housed in the caves, from where they commanded the final stages of the war.

Eight caves are open to the public. Of these the most important ones are Kaysone’s, Red Prince Souphanouvong, Theatre Cave and the deepest cave, Tham Xieng Muang.

Other attractions in Vientiane include the enormous gilded stupa (Pha That Luang), the Buddha Park, crumbling French colonial buildings, street markets, noodle shops and a number of Buddhist temples.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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Get Close to the Endemic Elephants in Malaysia

Elephants, one of the most majestic species that continue to roam the earth in modern times, face a multitude of issues that threaten their continued existence. In the African and Asian continents, for instance, elephants are often hunted and killed for ivory, while in other parts of the world, elephants are also captured and sold for a variety of purposes. Furthermore, one of the fundamental concerns faced by this species is the loss of its natural habitat due to the growth in the human population, human settlements and destruction of the natural environment. The final outcome of these threats is the increasing fragmentation of elephant communities, leading to the isolation of the young calves. A number of organisations around the world have attempted to remedy such issues through the establishment of elephant orphanages, and the Kuala Gandah Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary is one such example in Malaysia.

Located close to Kuala Lumpur, the Kuala Gandah Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary was established by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks of Malaysia in 1989. For tourists staying at hotels such as AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort, visiting this sanctuary is a must. Other things to do in Sepang include opting for a Mangrove River Cruise, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historical Malacca and visiting Banghuris Agro.

As the Sanctuary is a fairly popular attraction for those visiting Malaysia, and given that the Kuala Gandah Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary regulates admissions based on daily quotas, it is recommended that tourists and visitors make advance bookings to avoid disappointment. Visitors to the Sanctuary will have the opportunity to watch elephants being fed and washed while also having the opportunity to ride an elephant into the river.

Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary is an exciting and interesting experience, especially for animal lovers, and is indeed a must-visit for tourists visiting Malaysia.

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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Safari World Bangkok

Safari World Bangkok offers an exciting wildlife experience, fun and entertainment to all visitors irrespective of their age and nationality and is a popular choice amongst leisure parks that you will find in many a travel guide. Bangkok attractions such as this one can be enjoyed by the whole family making it such a top choice. While enjoying a stay at well placed properties like Anantara Sathorn Bangkok Hotel, visitors can take a tour to this amazing Open Safari Park and Marine Park near Bangkok.

Safari World Bangkok consists of an open zoo with a Safari Park and a Marine Park. Safari Park is an 8 kilometer long land where animals roam freely in a beautiful African jungle setting. It is home to many species of wild animals like lions, tigers, zebras, camels, antelopes, gazelles, rhinos, ostriches and hundreds of animals from all over the world. Further, a large herd of giraffes roam around the feeding area. Feeding giraffes is another exiting thing as giraffes are always hungry! It is really an exciting experience to drive amidst free roaming wild animals, watching lions and tigers at close range from vehicles.

The Marine Park is a traditional zoo; a part of the giant theme park has a vast collection of land and sea animals as well as birds. One can take a cruise river ride through the jungle to see crocodiles and gorillas. There are exciting shows daily with water skiing, Hollywood cowboy stunts, with many shows by animals like dolphins and sea lions, orangutan boxing, hundreds of exhibits featuring white tigers, fantasy carp garden, crocodile garden, tapir kingdom and many more.

Thus the wilderness of Safari World is a great way to spend the day away from the city and enjoy the nature and wildlife in style.

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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Fishing Village in Marawila

Marawila is a small fishing village located in the town of Puttalam, about 62km from Colombo. Located within 3km of Negombo, Marawila is a quieter setting compared to the former. As it is neither a fully fledged tourist destination nor a thriving town, this little village offers intimate, “close-to-nature” type of experiences to travellers.

Home to untarnished and long stretch of golden sandy beaches, Marawila has proven to be a wonderful destination for those looking for a relaxing holiday away from the commotion of popular tourist hot spots in Sri Lanka. Beach hotels and accommodation spaces are a plenty, with the likes of Amagi Beach Marawila being popular options among tourists.

Picturesque fresh water lagoons, un-crowded beaches and tranquil views of the local fishermen out at sea on their boats make Marawila a desirable holiday spot.

Mostly a tranquil or romantic getaway, Marawila is also home to temples rich in history. The most popular one is “Kurusa Palliya” (Holy Cross Shrine), established in 1875. Besides being one of the older churches in the country, Holy Cross Shrine is also renowned for numerous miracles that are said to have taken place there. Many churchgoers claim that incurable diseases and unforeseen family tragedies have been reversed after having prayed here. To the locals, this church is the embodiment of the living Christ.

Another popular temple in Marawila is Thaniwella Dewale with its prominent horse statue at the front. This shrine was constructed by the son of King Weeraparakramabahu the 8th, Prince Thaniya Wallaba from the Kotte period. History says that the prince once saved the coastal region from a powerful south Indian invader and as a result the townspeople called him Thaniwelle Deviyo. The temple is also home to a Bo tree that is said to be over 250 years old.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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A Shopaholic’s Guide to Designer Shopping in Colombo

According Blair Waldorf in the hit TV series Gossip Girl, “Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping”. So if you’re in Colombo and want to seek out happiness the kind that Blair Waldorf speaks of, here are a few upscale shopping destinations you should definitely checkout.

Before you set out on adrenaline-pumping shopping adventure, it’s important that at first you get comfortably settled in a Colombo city hotel that’s conveniently located. Thus, The Steuart by Citrus will be the ideal option for you as this boutique hotel in Colombo is within 12-15 minutes distance from some of Colombo popular shopping destinations such as ODEL, Arcade Independence Square, Barefoot and Lakpahana.

Sri Lanka’s first department store, ODEL should be the top of your list of designer shopping destinations in Colombo as here you can find a wide range of designer products that’s not just clothing but jewellery and home ware as well. You will also be able to buy international branded wear such as Michael Kors, Lancôme, Christian Dior and so much more here. The Embark designer brand by ODEL is a great way to shop and give back at the same time as a portion of profits from the sale of merchandise is used to fund their foundation that cares for the wellbeing of street pooches.

Next, head over to the Arcade Independence Square where Tommy Hilfigher, FCUK, Charles and Keith and more await for you to splurge yourself. This Colonial style shopping complex also has a few local high-fashion brands such as Azarya and Stone N String.

For an authentic Sri Lankan designer shopping experience visit Barefoot, Designer Barbara Sansoni’s eclectic boutique that is famous for its brightly-coloured handloom products such as household items (bedspreads, cushions, and serviettes), stationery and clothing. Lakpahana is also a great place to buy Sri Lankan designer wear as they sell traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts and clothing. Housed within Lakpahana’s premises is Zudhora, Colombo’s newest and trendiest designer experience that presents uniquely Sri Lankan clothing created to match the latest international trends.

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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Be adventurous with White Water Rafting in Chiang Mai, Thailand

There are few cities in Thailand which are as culturally and historically significant as the ancient city of Chiang Mai. Formerly the seat of the Lan Na Kingdom in the 12th Century, Chiang Mai is home to some of Thailand’s most iconic temples, such as the Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, and Wat Chet Yot. In addition to its rich culture and heritage, Chiang Mai also hosts numerous festivals and has many recreational attractions, making it a great tourist destination. A hotel that conveniently lets you engage in all the top things to do in Chiang Mai is the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa.

Chiang Mai is not just about nature and historic sites. The city is actually a hit with adventure lovers owing to its dense forests and hilly terrain. But the biggest adventure activity in Chiang Mai is white water rafting. Chiang Mai boasts streams known for the thrilling rapids and torrents making it one of Southeast Asia’s best white water rafting destinations. So if you are an adventure junkie and would like to ride the rapids of one of the most exotic locations in the world, head over to Chiang Mai!

The best river for white water rafting is the Mae Tang River, and during the months of July through March the river is brimming with water. Thus, during this period the river is ideal for engaging in some thrilling and exciting white water rafting. The Mae Tang River boasts a number of rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV, making these rapids the best thing a white water rafting enthusiast can ask for. As you ride and paddle through the river you will also be able to enjoy the timeless and breath taking beauty of the nature and scenery of Chiang Mai. The area is filled with many adventure sports centers that will give you international standard equipment, so don’t be afraid to ride the wild Mae Tang River.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Whale watching in Sri Lanka

Head out to the deep seas from the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka to witness the glorious giants of the sea! Tourists visiting Sri Lankan paradise engage in various excursions both in land and on waters surrounding the isle. Among these popular past times, whale watching is an experience that should not be missed. The best time to spot the blue whales and if you are lucky the sperm whales in the eastern shores are from months of May to October. During your visit to the region accommodation could be found at a Sri Lanka resort such as Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa. The location of the property allows travellers the opportunity to start off their whale watching journey in the early morning.

Step on aboard to an exhilarating journey to spot the biggest spectacles of the ocean and be mesmerized as the blue whales swim in the azure waters. If you are lucky you will be able to spot whale sharks during your sea voyage in the eastern seas of Sri Lanka. The southern shores of the isle also provides visitors to the country the opportunity to go whale watching, the best time to visit would be during the months of November to April. According to Dr. Charles Anderson, a professional marine biologist, the southern coast of Sri Lanka is one of the best places in the world to spot Blue Whales, as most of these creatures are on migration from their North East monsoon feeding grounds to the South West monsoon grounds in the Arabian Sea. Whale watching in Sri Lanka is possible throughout the year however if you pick the right season and the spot the chances of seeing these marvellous creatures will be high. Your expeditions will also provide you with plenty of photo opportunity and memories to take back home.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Stilt Fishing in Southern Coast, Sri Lanka

As you explore Sri Lanka’s famed South Coast, you will come across something most intriguing; as you near the beach from afar you will notice a long stilt some way out to sea. Perched on it, rather precariously it must be added, is what looks like a human form, deftly holding on as the waves move to and fro. As you get nearer you will realise that it is indeed a person, who seems to be balancing himself on a small bar while with his hands he casts a line into the vast blue waters beyond. He is not alone in his endeavours as several feet apart are others on stilts engaged in the same practice; this fascinating sight is what is known as stilt fishing and provides a most unique insight into the livelihoods of the island’s fisher communities, not forgetting some truly stunning photo opportunities.

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to seeing stilt fishermen, Sri Lanka has certain locales where one can view this activity like Ahangama, Kathaluwa and Koggala. If you are looking to combine a coastal getaway that includes visiting areas where one can see stilt fishing then consider staying at one of the Cantaloupe Hotels on the South Coast.

A traditional and arduous means of earning a livelihood, stilt fishing does not require any sophisticated equipment. All that is needed is a stilt (called a ‘ritipanna’), a small bar on top for sitting, a fishing rod (called the ‘pitta’) and of course hours of patience and endurance. Sunrise and sunset (nearing dusk) are amongst the times of day that these fishermen climb atop their lonely perch above the waters and cast their line hoping to catch mackerel or spotted herring that can be sold. Sometimes fishermen may even let you climb up and see what it is like to be seated balancing on the small pole above the waters; keep in mind though most fishermen will expect some money for such activities.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Full Day Diving Safari in South Male Atoll

Maldives is one of the most picturesque islands of the Indian Ocean. Being a popular tourist hub, this island nation welcomes thousands of tourists annually. Maldives is well equipped with an array of accommodation options. Among them the luxury resort Maldives gain significant prominence. One such resort that has been a noteworthy choice among visitors has been Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort. The over water villas are perfectly appointed above the turquoise waters and offer maximum comfort and luxury.

Maldives has most of its tourist activities centered on the waters surrounding it. One of the activities popular among the tourist visiting the South Male Atoll is to engage in diving. Considered to be one of the best dive sites in Maldives, the South Atoll is perfect place to spend the day diving. South Male is considered to be one of the best diving sites mainly because of the astonishing array of marine life. The currents that flow through the channel support a large number of marine lives. The atoll is blessed with colorful caves and overhangs. Coco Thila is considered to be a typical south male dive site. Another site to explore would be Guraidhoo Kandu which supports abundance of life.

There are very few live-boards cruising that take place in this part of the country. Very few dive boats venture out here making it one of the less explored yet less disturbed regions.

Some of the interesting sites include Vaadhoo Caves, located on the northern tip there are various caves and there is a chance to spot bigger visitors such as the White tip sharks, Tuna as well as Turtles. Another site would be Kandooma Point, which is a great site to dive when the current goes inwards where the big groupers such as Tuna and Sharks enjoy the fast flowing waters.

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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