Whale Submarine Tour Maldives, a spectacular marine adventure

The beautiful Maldive Islands offer many engrossing pleasures for the visitor. Although perhaps best known for its magical beaches the Maldives also offers other diversions for visitors who choose to holiday in this lovely nation. If you will be visiting this attractive nation and desire a Maldives all inclusive hotel an appealing option would be staying at the Maafushivaru Maldives. This fine accommodation is an excellent rest offering quality rooms and a selection of attractive amenities.

Visitors to the Maldives should make it a point to experience one of the unique Whale Submarine tours. Taking an undersea ride on the one of a kind whale submarine is sure to be an engrossing experience for all visitors irrespective of nationality or preferences. The ocean waters bordering the Maldivian islands are noted for their clarity and their undersea beauty. These locations have become noteworthy diving sites, but for non-divers and those who simply desire a convenient excursion to the ocean depths there is no better choice than taking an enthralling whale submarine ride to the depths of the ocean.

The whale submarine is a state-of-the-art vessel specially designed to take passengers on a comfortable, enjoyable and safe journey to the undersea environment. Passengers will be able to look out of convenient portholes from where they will enjoy sensational views across the ocean vistas. As you might expect you will see a myriad of ocean creatures on one of these dives, including such ocean denizens as anemone fish, lionfish, butterfly fish and parrotfish. You may also have the opportunity to view larger marine creatures such as manta rays, stingrays, sea turtles, eels, giant groupers, white-tip sharks, gray reef sharks and even whale sharks.

You will also see other interesting marine highlights such as spectacular gardens of coral reef and mysterious shipwrecks. You can also take the opportunity to take a night dive, when the illuminations of the submarine will highlight the undersea coral formations creating a mesmerizing scene.

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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Hammerhead Shark Point, a diving highlight

The beautiful seas of the Maldive Islands offer a host of attractive diving sites for enthusiasts of this pursuit. Amidst the crystal clear waters you will find a myriad of coral reefs as well as other locations where you will encounter an array of fascinating marine creatures. If you desire an appealing Maldives holiday resort which offers access to these local pleasures a discerning choice would be the Kuramathi Island Resort Maldives. This appealing accommodation offers attractively furnished rooms as well as considerate hospitality.

Divers will be enthralled by the opportunity to observe the intriguing hammerhead sharks at the well-known Hammerhead Shark Point at Rasdhoo Atoll. This is one of the few remaining locations on the globe where you will have the opportunity to dive with these enigmatic creatures of the deep which capture the imagination of the observer with their amazingly shaped heads.

Often a liveaboard will take you to the dive site, with company in the form of other divers. The best time to dive with the hammerhead sharks is at sunrise; accordingly you will have to enter the waters in the early dawn hours, at which time the tropical waters will have a comfortable temperature. A dive of about 30 m will be ideal to encounter these engrossing creatures of the deep.

The hammerheads will soon arrive, often in the form of schools of many individuals. If you are lucky you will encounter large, perhaps 4 m long individuals, which will inspire awe with their impressive proportions. Hammerhead Point features a number of undersea caverns and overhangs which are interesting to explore. On your dive you will also encounter such marine creatures as dolphinfish, dogtooth tuna, sailfish and black snapper.

Hammerhead sharks are not usually dangerous to humans, and feed on fish, particularly stingrays. As these sharks possess eyes located on the sides of their distinctively shaped heads they can easily see and capture their chosen prey.

 

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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Bird Handling

Falcons have been used as a hunting weapon by the Bedouins in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa desert region for centuries. Taking falcons out into the desert on hunting expeditions lasting several days was how rulers kept in touch with tribes at one time. Although they are not used for practical purposes anymore, falconry is now a popular sport in the Liwa desert although using them to hunt wildlife is restricted. Sporting birds are taken out into the desert each day as they have to be flown and trained daily. The main species of falcon being used for sport are the saker and the peregrine. One of popular luxury hotels Abu Dhabi, Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers a selection of desert based leisure activities that include falconry.

The bird’s eyes are covered with a hood during the acclimatization process to keep it calm. Out in the desert when the hoods are removed the birds soar up into the air reveling in the wide open spaces. A GPS transmitter attached to their tail feathers keep track of movements. The falcons are capable of flying at 200 miles an hour and are efficient hunters in open terrain. Training comprises of the bird’s handler whirling a feathered, baited lure until the falcon dives for it. When the bird catches the lure it receives a reward. Later the falcon is trained to dive on a live prey. This time the handler lures it away before it can get its talons into the prey, getting the bird used to not killing the prey immediately. When the sun goes down over the desert, it is time for the falcons to go back to their roost. At the end of the sporting season some falconers release the birds into the wild after embedding a micro chip for identification. The capturing and training of falcons need patience, skill and even bravery as they are dangerous raptors. They have to be trained for months before they can be used for sport.

 

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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Jungle Tales

Phra Taew is a forested mountain range in the north of Phuket with a central peak rising 450 meters, the highest point on the island. Still in pristine condition, it is an excellent example of a rain forest in South East Asia. The forest is both a recreation area and a class room that can impart knowledge on the fragile eco system and how best to preserve it. The fauna here include a herd of barking deer, bands of monkeys and gibbons released into the wild from the nearby Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre, wild boar, small mammals such as the Malayan Black Giant Squirrel, amphibians, reptiles and many species of migratory and native birds. The flora comprises of tropical evergreen trees, bamboo, palms and ferns. Bang Pae waterfall is its most prominent water feature. The pools it forms are popular with hikers seeking to cool off. Hikes to Khao Phra Taew Wildlife Park can be planned from Anantara Phuket Villas, a popular Phuket beach resort.

The wildlife park has a 600 meter and a two km easy to follow hiking trails from Bang Pae waterfall to Ton Sai waterfall. Visitors keen on a wildlife experience can hire a guide at the information centre near the Bang Pae waterfall or set off on their own. Although the trail is not arduous some scrambling over fallen trees and rocks are involved. As the trail goes up the mountain visitor will observe a change in the flora. The Wild Animal Rescue Foundation of Thailand or WARF also offers several hiking options. These treks include the services of ecology lecturers and trackers and offer the best ways to see its fauna and understand its flora. The hikes are categorized as a Soft Jungle Experience which is a half day hike, Nocturnal Life a night trip, gibbon trekking day trips and overnight camping trips. Having the services of a tracker is the best way to see wildlife during daytime. Night trips offer opportunities to see a range of amphibians, reptiles and several small nocturnal creatures.

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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Kicking up a Dust

Anyone who has been near a desert has always wanted to explore it. One way of doing this, albeit very briefly, is to take a SUV safari in the desert. This offers a bit of exploration combined with an incredible off road experience that everyone from seven to seventy seem to enjoy. Anantara Hotels Resorts & Spas, an operator of luxury hotel resorts in Asia and the Middle East, has several properties at desert locations.

Many travel companies at desert locations offer variations of the SUV desert safari. This involves driving a 4×4 vehicle over sand dunes at maniacal speeds so that the occupants have the most thrilling experience of their lives. This is also known as dune bashing. The episodes generally start with a convoy of 4x4s leaving the city behind early in the evening and hitting the dunes after reducing the pressure in the SUVs tires to increase its footprint, gaining more traction and to avoid sinking into the sand. The convoy is also a necessary precaution to avoid losing direction and getting lost. Ensuring the passengers are securely buckled in, the driver commences to kick up a dust navigating the steep troughs and crests of the dunes shaking up its passengers and giving the uninitiated quite a fright. The SUV driver who has been doing this many times is well up in his game. The SUV desert safari is also most people’s first introduction to the desert and the discovery that the desert landscape is very varied indeed.

The dune bashing lasts for about 20 minutes. The passengers are allowed a respite to watch the sunset over the dunes which is really a very pretty sight. The safari includes a visit to a camel farm, camel rides, henna tattoos and a traditional Arabic meal sitting on carpets and cushions on the sand around a campfire entertained by a belly dancer and relaxing with a shisha afterwards. The safari is also an opportunity to try sand boarding and if vehicles are available at site, dune bashing on ATVs as well.

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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Discover Desert Adventures with Engaging Activities in Sir Bani Yas Island

Travellers in search of well-positioned resorts Abu Dhabi ranks among its most conveniently located rests should look no further than the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi. Providing guests with a strategic base in the heart of the island this breathtaking resort is suitable for both business travellers and holidaymakers.

As the most popular island of the Desert Islands of Al Ghrabia Sir Bani Yas Island is a dream come true for desert vacationers. Although all eight islands are recreational hubs for the masses Sir Bani Yas Island offers visitors the most diversity in terms of the activities and attractions on offer.

When it comes to desert adventures there’s nothing quite like uncovering wild beasts in a vast natural landscape. Occupying more than half of the island’s landscape the Arabian Wildlife Park is a mammoth wildlife sanctuary that contains more than 10,000 animals within its confines. Roaming free majestic jungle dwellers the likes of Arabian Oryxes, leaping cheetahs, grazing gazelles and giraffes can be spotted on a four wheel drive safari adventure at Sir Bani Yas Island. Wildlife drives on 4x4s are available through variety of tour operators and resorts while other adventure activities include nature walks which explore the mangrove lagoons of the sanctuary while a Wadi walk takes thrill seekers to the rugged terrain atop the salt crested summits of the island’s mountains that occupy the heart of the island. Sand dunes, intriguing minerals, centuries-old fossils and rocky pathways are just some of the highlights of this tour.

Mountain biking is another sporting activity that is a staple among adventure enthusiasts exploring the island as the guided tours encompass wildlife encounters and spectacular scenery in a ride that will test one’s skills and nerve on rocky terrains crisscrossing the island. Kayakers can also paddle along the coastal areas of Sir Bani Yas while snorkellers can engage in an underwater adventure exploring the coral reefs and stunning marine creatures the likes of Arabic Fish and Hammour that inhabit the deep blue 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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Wild Adventures Await in Safari Hub Koh Samui

Travellers on the lookout for a spa hotel in Samui should look no further than the decidedly exotic Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort & Spa. Offering guests a breathtaking base from which to explore all of Samui this stylish rest provides elegant accommodation for holidaymakers from around the world.

Regarded as one of the must-have adventures on a tour of Koh Samui eco safari tours are coveted tour options for visitors touring this charming region of Thailand. As a pristine island blessed with stunning landscapes and natural attributes the beach paradise that is Koh Samui also offers intriguing attractions for nature lovers and curious spirits alike.

Dubbed Island Safari Tours this engaging half day excursion in to the wilder parts of this popular beach hub offers visitors a glimpse of the island’s diverse terrains as well as a taste of local culture. The 6 hour long adventure typically begins in the morning hours or afternoon depending on one’s preference. The safari begins with an unforgettable ride on an elephant through jungle terrain that can only be described as breathtaking. Located at the heart of the island the tropical rainforest is the perfect venue to understand the delicate balance between various natural elements. Insight on how elephants are trained and the special relationship shared between the mahout and the gentle giant is also part of the package which also includes a tour of the Koh Samui countryside on an ox cart. After entering a pastoral village guests will witness cooking demonstrations and taste authentic Thai curries prepared the traditional way. Rubber tapping demonstrations are equally enthralling while visitors can trek through the jungle to reach a nearby waterfall and end their half-day adventure with a scrumptious Thai meal.

Full-day jungle safari excursions on 4×4’s are also available while sea safaris at Angthong National Park and a safari across Khao Sok National Park and scenic Lan Lake are equally popular among seasoned Kos Samui vacationers.

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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Diving at Banana Reef

Set amidst pristine lapis lazuli waters, the Maldives offers many wondrous adventures into the deep where one can witness enchanting underwater beauty. Banana Reef is one the most popular spots amongst the many dive sites in the Maldives and is worth exploring on your excursions. Those interested in diving should look to stay at diving resorts Maldives has to offer such as Kuramathi Island Resort Maldives which provides dive tours and training as well.

Make sure to plan a visit to Banana Reef which can be found in the North Male Atoll. Offering a wall drift dive, this site is home to a banana-shaped reef. The reef which can be found at depths ranging from 5 to 40 metres can be explored the whole year through, though one must keep account of the fact that the currents are pretty strong. As you explore this fascinating site you will come across everything from blue-striped snappers to moray eels as well as distinctive corals that combine to form the unique landscape of Banana Reef.

 

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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Explore Mui Ne’s Natural Wonders on a Tour of the Red and White Sand Dunes

Travellers in search of a luxury resort in Mui Ne will be more than pleased with the stylish Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa. Offering guests a resplendent hideaway with spa facilities this cozy rest is the ideal base for holidaymakers.

Tipped to be one of Vietnam’s most intriguing tourist attractions the red and white sand dunes of Mui Ne are a geological anomaly that is worthy of exploration. Frequented by locals and travellers alike this captivating stretch of sand dunes have expanded to become one of the most popular tour options in central Vietnam.

Located on either side of a massive lake the White Dunes are situated the farthest from Mui Ne city centre and is considered the most arid area in all of Southeast Asia. Dubbed Bau Trang in the local tongue the White Dunes is a miniature desert with the Lotus Lake serving as its only body of water. Lotus flowers gaze up from the water source that is anything but a mirage and creates a sharp contrast with the sandy confines of its location. A series of cafes are pine trees are on hand to offer shade and refreshments as well as a quiet space for picnics, if one should so desire.

The Red Dunes on the other hand are easier to reach and is located close to the touristic heart of Mui Ne. Littered with small slopes and red hued sand the venue is a hotbed for local photographers and videographers who use the venue’s rich, textured landscapes as the back drop for music videos and the like.

Visitors can take a jeep tour across both dunes or opt for a more eco-friendly bike tour or motorbike tour and explore the area in its entirety with guides providing valuable information on the venues. Sledding activities are also popular at both dunes with sleds for adults and children available for rent nearby. Visitors can also go for a swim at Lotus Lake and enjoy the breathtaking scenery from a different vantage point.

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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Explore Sanya’s Hidden Treasures on Engaging Day Tours and Activities

Travellers in search of luxury hotel resorts in Sanya should look to Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with stylish rests across the continent this reputed name in hospitality caters to those on business as well as leisure.

Regarded as one of the world’s favorite coastal holiday hubs in China, Sanya is a tropical haven for the masses. Littered with breathtaking coastlines and blessed with sunny skies for most of the year this one- stop vacation heartland is also the perfect base from which to explore Hainan’s other treasures. With a myriad of engaging attractions and activities scattered around the city, day excursions from this popular seaside resort town are a must-have experience for all tourists.
Golfing enthusiasts can head down to the Luhuitou Golf Club and Driving Range which is home to a pristine 18-hole course complete with 7310 yards of green fairways. A gymnasium and dining facilities are also available at the venue where golfers young and old tee-off in the lap of luxury.

Water sports enthusiasts on the other hand can sail around the city’s azure oceans on chartered vessels. Traversing across some of the finest terrains in the South China Sea the sunset sailing tours are particularly spectacular all year round. Snorkelers can discover the vibrant marine life and breathtaking coral reefs on a snorkelling expedition in Sanya while surfers can also let lose among the towering waves of this surfing Mecca. Sea kayaking tours are equally popular among seasoned visitors as paddling across the ocean water allows one to take in the sights on both and land and sea at a leisurely pace.
Nature lovers can trek through the Ganza Ridge Natural Reserve in Sanya and discover the indigenous Li community and their way of life. Hikers and trekking enthusiasts can also explore mangroves and verdant landscapes on a walk across a tropical rainforest while shooting fanatics can try their luck at the International Olympics Shooting Centre in Sanya. Hot spring baths and healing therapies are also available at the famed Sanya Hot Springs.

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. Google+