Underwater Adventures in Maldives

As a country comprising mostly of ocean and just one percent land scattered over a thousand islets it is not surprising that adventure in the Maldives is to be had underwater. This is made exciting by the presence of coral reefs, rocky pinnacles rising from shallow lagoons and channels that offer varying landscapes and swim throughs teeming with marine life. As a prominent Maldives resort, Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa Maldives offer access to underwater adventures that make some of the most memorable vacation experiences here.

The Maldives underwater landscape is made up of many highly rated dive sites where an abundance of coral, varied marine life at different depths and an interesting variety of geological features makes scuba diving an adventure. Channels that connect groups of islets with the ocean offer some of the greatest underwater adventures as they have the deepest dive spots and the most surprises. Varying in size and depth, the range of caves, caverns and overhangs festooned with marine creatures attract larger fish because of the nutrients that pass through these waterways in a steady stream. The channels are also where large marine creatures come to make use of the services of cleaning wrasses and shrimp giving the opportunity for underwater adventure seekers to get the thrill of their lives because of close quarter views of several large pelagic species. Other underwater features that are great adventures sites are the rocky pinnacles rising up from the bottom of lagoons. Because of their size some ‘thilas’ or pinnacles cannot be explored in a single day. They host large populations of crustaceans and schools of fish enough to engage the attentions of scuba divers as long as the air in their tanks last.

While underwater adventures are usually experienced among the coastal water off resorts, scuba diving off a range of well equipped water crafts is one of the best ways to experience life beneath the water in the Maldives as adventurers can visit several popular dive sites. While underwater adventures during the day is undoubtedly exciting looking at micro and mega fauna beneath the waves illuminated only by the beam of a hand held torch is probably even more exciting. Different underwater adventures are possible during the southwest and the northeast diving seasons when large concentrations of pelagic species are to be found in different places.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Shazzana Hamid is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary. Disguised as Lavinia Woolf she writes of the exhilarating and enchanting.

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Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden

Nature is an important aspect to relish in while you’re spending a vacation in China. The Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden takes a significant place that would definitely make a strong impact in your little knowledge about Mother Nature. Thus, Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa is a remarkable accommodation option if you’re considering of engaging in this valuable educational experience. This setting allows you to enjoy the raw beauty of the lush greens in the comfort of a luxury hotel, Yunnan.

To begin with, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden is the largest manmade Botanical Garden and the only stretch of tropical rain forest lying in the land of china. It was founded in 1959 and it contains more than 13,000 species of tropical plants that are preserved in 35 living collections. This marvellous location is also a plant research station of the Chine Academy of Sciences, which is engaged in bio diversity conservation, resource plant development and forest eco-system ecology.

On that note, visit this world renowned tropical botanical gardens to enhance your knowledge primarily about unique botanical researches, new technical developments and plant seed resource preservation. You will be privileged to walk around nearly 20 mini gardens. The Garden of Famous Trees planted by celebrities, the National Tree and Flower Garden, the Garden of National Plants, the Garden of Palms and the Garden of Shady Plants are to name few famous mini gardens. In particular, there are nearly 5000 tropical plants growing successfully.

Naturally, walking around the gardens would be a mesmerizing tour of sightseeing. Scenes like giant trees with extremely old trunks, vines that have invaded trees, flowers in vibrant hues and long leafy grass are some beautiful sights that would compliment your eyes. It is assured that this would be an amazing opportunity to relax and feel happy in appreciation of Mother Nature. Moreover, if you’re lucky, you would also be able to witness entertaining performances from tour guides on celebration events.

Lastly, do not forget to taste some fresh fruits and herbs to complete your experience at this wonderful setting.

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. Google+

Brisbane’s Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Experience Brisbane’s iconic story bridge like never before with a Story Bridge Adventure Climb. A ‘must do’ activity when in Brisbane the climb offers a magnificent view of the city. The hotels Brisbane CBD houses are well equipped for business or leisure travellers but if you have been hankering for something off the familiar lines of contemporary hotels consider the Next Hotel Brisbane.

An outlandishly modern concept in hotel accommodation awaits you here. Clearly a hotel of the future Next incorporates all modern amenities and innovations for an ultra-comfortable stay. Enjoy self-check-ins at the lobby, also boasting the ‘SilverNeedle’ hospitality service, giving guests a chance to freshen up and relax at no extra charge. The stylish lines of the hotel are designed for maximum use of space with minimum fuss. Enjoy your stay in any one of the comfortable standard, deluxe or superior rooms offering a one-touch guest communication centre that enables you to work out all details from the comfort of your bed. Amazingly smart the hotel offers a 24hr gym and shower and rest pods for those on the go.

Discover Brisbane from Story Bridge offering sweeping vistas of the city, gorgeous views of Moreton Bay and the surrounding western Rim. The whole adventure last about two and a half hours and includes a climb to the summit of the bridge known as the superstructure located at 80meteres. This experience is indeed one of the three such experiences available globally.

Proper safety protocols and safety equipment are used while a colourful commentary on the bridges history adds more interest. Adrenaline junkies have the opportunity to abseil down one of the bridges pylons right into scenic Captain Burkes Park!

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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Saadiyat Beach Golf Club; Tee off surrounded by the idyllic Arabian Gulf

The Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, in Abu Dhabi, is the Arabian Gulf’s first beachfront golf course. With its course designed by Gary Player, it is known to be ‘one of the world’s most captivating golfing projects’. Away from the hustle and bustle of the busy metropolis of Abu Dhabi, the golf course uses the natural beauty of the area of Saadiyat, and the spectacular view of the Arabian Gulf’s blue waters and white sandy beaches. In the vicinity of the golf club, there are a number of luxury hotels ; Abu Dhabi is known for its decadence and class and for a truly authentic experience, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is recommended.

The golf course is designed with very strict eco-guidelines, and as a result the gold course boasts an array of native grass, and even a local turtle habitat. The Gulf along this beach is so well preserved there is even a chance to spot dolphins in and around the area. However because of the eco-guidelines don’t be fooled into thinking luxury has been sacrificed. With 3 salt water lakes, beach and sand dunes, even the bravest golfers will find a challenge on this Par 72 The total yardage starts at 5,290 however it can be extended up to 7,784 yards for professionals, or those looking for a challenge.

With world class amenities, a golf academy, practice facilities and breath-taking views, this golf course will definitely leave an impression and have you coming back for more. Take some time off to relax and socialize at the clubhouse with its premier restaurant, hawksbill. The Saadiyat Beach Golf Club has a ‘Member for a Day’ experience, visitors can pay for a daily use of the facilities as oppose to forking out hefty membership fees and such.

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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Deep Sea Fishing in Abu Dhabi

The strategic location along the coast of Persian Gulf permits Abu-Dhabi to offer its visitors with an extraordinary fishing experience. Being an island, the fishing enthusiasts can revel in the pleasure of fishing in the deep waters to catch some big fish. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara set in the beautiful ambience of Sri Bani Yas Island is one of a kind with limitless options among Abu Dhabi beach hotels for an ideal fishing vacation.

The bristling sun and the ever-existing salty breeze is the aroma that all fishing and non-fishing enthusiasts can enjoy while catching open-ocean fish species like king fish, sail fish, tuna, dorado and queen fish just off the shore of Abu-Dhabi. However, venture out to the deep seas with your fishing gear to catch some big game fish such as blue and white marlin, wahoo, shari, cobia, giant trevally, spanish mackerel and grouper fish.

Fishing in Abu-Dhabi doesn’t disappoint you throughout the year. Yet, the official season is from October to May and the anglers along with fishing experts claim that November to February is the best time to fish. Thus, delight yourselves with a fishing excursion guided by a local fishing expert in order to add a local touch to your experience as well as to find the best fishing spots!

Moreover, the fishing experience in these seas is colourised by varied coastal sceneries. It is assured that the landscape that you would mesmerise you with its charm and wilderness. Likewise, do not forget to admire the sun dipping below the horizon in early evenings on your fishing excursion!

Sport fishing in the deep waters of Abu-Dhabi provides ideal conditions for all anglers, regardless of skill, experience or the kind of challenges sought. You can chose to throw back the fish you catch or take it out to your hotel to make your meal! However, be aware of the fishing regulations in Abu-Dhabi before venturing out on a fishing trip and May the adventure of game fishing entice you!

Adrenaline Pumping Adventures in New Zealand

If you are in search of a holiday destination full of opportunities to put your energy to use, sweat in style and try some real adventure sports, the beautiful island across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand will indubitably fulfill your widest dream. Whether it may be in the jungles, the mountains, the seas or the skies, this place will amuse you with tantalizing opportunities to zest your heart’s desires.

While kicking the pulse rate up and exploring the amazing range of adventure experiences, you may as well select one of the country’s finest hotels to get pampered in complete luxury. Being an Award winning organization as a leading luxury vacation ownership company in Asia, Anantara Vacation Club has conveniently placed its holiday destination “Oaks Shores – New Zealand” in the well known ski resort town, only a 15 minutes’ drive from the Queenstown airport. As fascinating as it may sound, The Anantara Vacation Club at Oaks Shores reviews from travelers around the world will confirm the beautiful picture of the undeniable hospitality of the resort and the easy access it provides to many of the outdoor activities.

Bungy, sky diving, zip lining are adventures for those who would like to take the heart stopping challenge to have the view of a lifetime from miles above. If you enjoy an adventure in the water, you may like rafting, surfing, jet boating and scuba diving. Also, be sure to add activities such as caving, skiing and off-road driving to your itinerary.
For your safety, professional instructors are readily available and well equipped to ensure support even if you are a first time visitor. Your age does not matter as you may choose from a wide range of options to match your capabilities. You can always try your hand at less dangerous activities such as bird watching, fishing safari and kayaking in this exquisite island.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Escalating Trends in Sri Lanka Surfing

Sri Lanka has been long known for its idyllic palm fringed beaches where one can soak up the sun and enjoy lazy days by the shore. However, this tropical island paradise is also becoming one of the best destinations in Asia for some thrilling surfing adventures. Arugam Bay is arguably the country’s most well known surfing hotspot attracting surfers from around the world looking to enjoy riding the waves in freedom at such spots as Main Point. Other nearby spots include Pottuvil Point, Whiskey Point and Crocodile Rock. Sri Lanka Holiday Travel offers tours to such surfing getaways, letting surfers experience the very best waves the island has to offer.

Part of this growing trend is the surfing competitions being held in Sri Lanka such as Red Bull Ride My Wave which has taken place in places like Arugam Bay in the East Coast. The South Coast too is home to many surfing areas like Hikkaduwa, Mirissa and Wewala which also draw in enthusiasts looking to catch some ‘killer’ breaks.

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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Wreck Diving in Maldives

Many leagues under the Indian Ocean lies a mysterious underwater world. Many Titanics have met their waterloo under the water and rest in peace with reefs. All this is simply a heaven under the water for the diver.

What more could you expect than exotic marine life, stunning dive sites, warm water, wonderful weather, top quality rental equipment, excellent safety systems, comfortable boats and an enthusiastic and experienced multilingual dive team on your adventure? All these services are available at Anantara Veli, Maldives, one of the Maldives Bungalows.

Maldivian atolls offer easy access to these shipwrecks. However government permission is required to dive into shipwrecks of historical interest. Interestingly these wrecks get different shapes with the pattern of marine life.

Wreck diving is not every diver’s cup of tea. Only a few divers – who are professionals, in fact – have developed an interest for diving underwater to explore this wreck life. Intriguingly they can discover how marine life absorbs these human civilization’s relics and adapts into a symbiotic connection with them. Strangely there is a rhythm to their co-existence.

Maldivian waters are calm, warm and clear. The opportunity is quite inviting to watch how this relationship exists underwater. The reefs grown on wrecked remains have naturally offered shelter to underwater flora and fauna. These remains, which were once titanic ships, could pose interesting stories that echo a glorious past. In a way it is somewhat ghastly to watch them as they silently re-narrates a story.

Seven diving sites are identified in Maldives which have wrecks: Maldives Victory in North Male, Kuda Giri in South Male, Fesdu Wreck in the centre of Ari Atoll, British Loyalty in Addu Atoll and Khudaa Maa near Angaga Island. Most these wrecks are located 30 metres (average) deep under the water.

It will be amazing to see how lobsters have made their homes on the bow of these wrecks.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Koh Tan: The Best Snorkeling Trip for Everyone

ou would perhaps wonder if there could be a better place for snorkelling in the world than Koh Tan. Their outstanding snorkel equipment such as snorkel, mask, fins and life jacket. Koh tan is also known for its delightful scenery.

Check in with Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort & Spa, a Hotel in Samui, and be ready for the adventure. The waters are a bit shallow, but is full of fish for a first time snorkeler.

It is waiting for you with blazing sun and clear waters to explore deep sea.

Koh Taen is noted mostly because of its unspoilt islands. Among many adventurous activities you have in there include snorkeling, fishing and kayaking. Koh Tan occupies the space of 7.5 sq km. It also contains a small village. This island is also known as coral island, due to its rich coral diversity. There are other islands too along with Koh Tan: Koh Mudsum, Koh Raab, Koh Wang Nok and Koh Wangnai. Tan is the largest of them all.

This is also a natural bay area. The rich coral diversity and the natural bay area status are more than enough to make the snorkelling experience a memorable one. Although global warming and sea temperatures have led to destruction of some amount of coral reefs, it will still be adventurous with plenty of fish to spot underwater.

Another memorable experience will be to snorkel during the sunset. The waters will take a different shape and colour as the sun slowly sets. You need to be at Koh Tan at least by 4 pm, to get ready: putting on your swimwear and snorkel gear.

If you wish to fish too, then you need to be at the island a little early like 9.30 in the morning. It is a half-an-hour sail to Koh Tan Reserve. Snorkelling and fishing programmes are designed according to guest’s familiarity with them. The novice snorkelers as well as pros will also get a golden opportunity.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Diving in Baa Atoll

Those waters in Baa Atoll are quite inviting and warm. You will feel like taking a dip immediately once you sight those waters. There is so much to see in these waters, when you dive.

From Male International Airport, it is only a 35-minute seaplane flight to Baa Atoll. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, one of the Maldives Hotels, offers a deluxe perspective to this atoll.

Baa Atoll’s fish life mainly includes midnight snapper, small-toothed emperor, coral rock cod, moon fusiliers and broad-striped fusiliers.

An administrative division in Maldives, Baa Atoll has three natural atolls: Maalhosmadulu, Fasduthere and Goifulhafehendhu. There are two marine-protected areas well noted for whale-shark encounters. Hanifaru Bay, which is on the east side of Baa Atoll, is a small vacant isle, is known for whale sharks. Take your waterproof camera and try to capture the underwater life.

For manta ray feeding too, Hanifaru Bay is considered to be the best place. You will see different kinds of behaviour patterns as you dive near the surface. As the Bay is full of food for manta, different behaviours could be seen. They would even get into fights with each other, as they idle around.

Once under the water, you are the photographer who can take spiral whip corals. Check out for Maldivian sponge snail too in this area. Its looks are quite distinctive. In Maldives, this snail is considered endemic. Its movement is ultra slow, around a centimetre a day. It will be your treasure as a photographer.

Baa Atoll has 16 identified dive sites: Bathalaa Kandu, Milaidhoo House Reef, Veyofushi Bodu Giri, Hirundhoo House Reef, Kakani Thila, Dhonisu Thila, Faimini Bodu Thila, Faimini Kuda Thila, Dharavehoo Thila, Horubadhoo Thila, Kunfunadhoo Thila, Digalihaa Thila, Nelivaru Thila, Miriandoo Thila, Madi Thila and Muthafushi Thila.

As a significant biosphere reserve in Maldives, Baa Atoll narrates a detailed account of human interaction with the environment.

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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