An adventure into Sri Lanka’s wild awaits you, when you embark on an exciting Leopard safari in Yala National park. A safari into this unique landscape should feature in your Sri Lanka travel plans, and you can explore the various Sri Lanka tours offered by many reputable travel professionals on the island, with Jetwing Holidays being an excellent choice. Come face-to-face with the ever-reticent and majestic predator of Sri Lanka’s wilderness: the Leopard. The best time to spot this magnificent feline is early morning or again at sunset. The Leopard stalks the grounds in a confident gait, and the younger males have no qualms about approaching the jeep directly, opening up a world of spectacular photographic opportunities, so snap away! This unique being is only one of fascinating local flora and fauna sure to cross your path during your trip out here. You will also be able to spot the sambar, spotted dear, jackals, mongooses, sloth bears, and the most vibrant birds that are sure to delight all bird-watchers, with Rosy Starlings, Crested Hawk Eagles, Blue-Tailed Bee-Eaters and Paradise Flycatchers amongst the many species winging through the trees. So go on a leopard safari in Yala to discover the island’s most intriguing predator!
Bird Watching in Kumana
The tropics of Sri Lanka make it an ideal destination for bird watching with the Kumana National Park being one of the prime locations for nature lovers to indulge in such an outdoor adventure. Found approximately 391 km southeast of Colombo, the park is easily accessible by choosing to stay at any luxury hotel Sri Lanka has to offer. Even Sri Lanka boutique hotels such as Saman Villas Bentota can be chosen as a favourable choice of accommodation to come home to.
The park comprises of mangrove swamp sections, karan ferns, kumbuk trees and wetland areas that serve as ideal breeding grounds for a host of bird species that flock in large numbers. When scouring the area one must keep in mind to visit the Kumana Villu which is a swamp lake where numerous water birds such as spoonbills, egrets and pelicans may be sighted. Be sure to take your binoculars with you for you might capture sights of the migrant birds that arrive here. These include the malabar trogon, yellow-footed green pigeon and the greater racket-tailed drongo. Amongst the 255 species that are known to inhabit the area, the black-necked stork and great thick-knee can be seen during the months of April to July. The best time to head over would be during the initial half of the year where the waterholes are full to the brim. After a trip to Kumana one will be left with an abundance of memories to take back home.
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+
Kidzania Theme Park
The popular Mexican chain of family entertainment centres, KidZania recently opened its theme park in Bangkok. Being one of the world’s fastest growing global edutainment brands, Kidzania has been receiving millions of visitors at its locations around the world, over the years. These theme parks are created to resemble a child-sized replica of an actual city inclusive of buildings, theatres and shops as well as pedestrians and vehicles moving along its streets.
These entertainment venues let children work and earn currency. The money the children earn by performing these tasks are kept in each theme park’s bank, to be spent on KidZania activities and at the gift shop. A special feature of these parks is that children are given electronic bracelets to wear, which allow parents to remotely keep track of them. A 14 member group of children carry out the governance of KidZania, a 26% share of which is owned by the famous Bollywood actor Shahruk Khan.
In recognition of the brand’s uniqueness and value as well as its future potential, various organizations presented many awards to KidZania which was voted by IAAPA as the World’s Top Family Entertainment Centre. The brand was also announced to be among the ‘2012 Best Mexican Companies’ by Deloitte Mexico and ITESM.
Whist the theme park of this brand is a major attraction in Bangkok, there is also a plenty of other places of interest ranging from upscale shopping destinations to beautiful religious sites. A traveller should also make it a point to sample local cuisine when in the region as it is a major part of the entire experience. Being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Asia, Bangkok offers a lot for leisure travellers to enjoy.
If a traveller is looking to be based at a service apartment in Bangkok, Somerset Park Suanplu Bangkok is an option to keep in mind. It is wise to opt for a centrally located serviced apartment Bangkok has to offer, in order to make the most of your holiday travel to this part of the world, rich in history and culture. Such theme parks as KidZania will also help ensure that kids will have a truly fun and exciting holiday as well.
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. Google+
Mu Ko Phetra National Park
Mu Ko Phetra Marine Park is located in the Andaman Sea side of Thailand and is one of the largest marine parks in the country. There are around 30 islands that belong to the park and some of these islands are known to be nesting grounds for turtles that lay their eggs on the beach. Since the national park includes islands from the southern part of the Trang Province and the northern area of the Satun Province there is a variety of flora and fauna found here. The site is an excellent place to visit from sunrise to sunset. Visitors can begin the day by exploring the colourful coral reef which is home to rich marine life. Then set off on a trekking tour observing some curious animals and birds in the tropics.
The area has some of the typical features of Thai’s tropics such as steep limestone rocks and white sandy beaches so it is perfect for those who want to go for a hike. The limestone is believed to be at least 470 million years old and they reach up to 200m in height providing a spectacular view of the Andaman Sea. There are a lot of water based activities one can participate in while at the park; snorkelling, diving, swimming and kayaking are some of them. If you are feeling tired then it is best to take a ride on a cruise boat or go on a ferry. Some of the islands have been restricted to the public and you need to be with a recognized tour guide if one wants to see certain locations in the area.
One will notice that there are different types of forests scattered across the islands; rainforests, open forests and mangrove forests. The mangrove forests are in the muddy areas, near the lagoons; there are open forests on the beachfront filled with lush vegetation. The rainforests are found in the interior of the islands, and you need to travel further inside to see them. What is also fascinating are the different animal species and aquatic life you see here. Monkeys, wild pigs, bats, pythons and Indian monitors are abundant. Turtles, Brahminy kites, collared kingfishers, and reef egrets are also frequently sighted. If you are looking for a place to stay so you can visit the marine park then you should try to check into Krabi resorts. You can also consider staying at a Trang resort which makes an ideal base to explore the area. When visiting the region consider staying at Anantara Si Kao Thailand which features villas overlook the stunning Andaman Sea.
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.
Mountain Climbing in Beijing
How would experiencing a challenging climb that will lead you to some of the most enchanting of peaks in the city of Beijing? Choosing a luxury apartment in Beijing would be the best way to begin an unforgettable adventure. Somerset Grand Fortune will offer you the convenience of residing at its serviced apartments Beijing possesses from where you could plan a day’s trip to these majestic mountains.
Baihe Natural Rock Climbing Cliff poses perhaps the greatest of challenges to even the skilled mountaineer. With its various paths the cliff comes across as a daunting climb which offers trekkers the joy of absorbing the natural ambience of Beijing in all its glory. Come face to face with dizzying heights at this cliff which is a renowned tourist hotspot in the area. The Western Hills and Huairou-Miyun loop located to the north of the city are also options worth considering. Feel an adrenaline rush like no other as you take on the demands of Beijing’s outdoors in your own time.
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+
Tel Moreeb
The deserts of the UAE not only offer visitors a chance to witness the sheer beauty of the barren landscapes that abound, but also take part in thrilling adventure sports too. Believed to be the tallest sand dune in the world, Tel Moreeb is one such desert attraction and can be visited while staying at a hotel in Abu Dhabi. When in search of accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer consider the luxurious Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi which provides an ideal base for business and leisure alike.
Plan a trip to the desert area known as the Empty Quarter where you will find the imposing Tel Moreeb sand dune. Situated around 25 kms from the Liwa Oasis, Tel Moreeb is aptly referred to as the ‘Scary Mountain’ since it is more than 300 metres in height and features an incline of 50 degrees. A popular spot for motorsport enthusiasts, Tel Moreeb attracts those interested in quad bike and four wheel drive vehicle excursions. One of the best times to visit this area is during the event known as the Moreeb Hill Climb which takes place each February and which gives you a chance to see dirt bikes and other vehicles in action.
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. Google+
Trekking in Gunung Agung
Trekking in Gunung Agung is an experience no traveller in Bali should miss; not only does this volcano hold an incredible spiritual significance to the locals, it also is the highest point on this beautiful island offering a spectacular view to anyone willing to take on the excitement filled hike to the rim of the volcano. If you’re a true thrill seeker, the six-hour hike to the peak which allows you breathtakingly beautiful views is well worth the while.
The shorter, more straightforward hike starts off at the car park of Pura Pasar Agung, where there are plenty of guides waiting. At the gates, one can join the guide in an offering to the gods, asking for protection and a safe return while lighting incense sticks for one of the shrines. After this the true hike begins; including a trek through dense alpine rainforest, followed by a steep climb on the first rocky surface, where the forest has thinned and offers a taste of the view at the rim. The last part of the trek is steep and slippery, but it is truly worth it, because at this point the view begins unfolding in every direction. Ahead of you stands the peak of Gunung Agung while on one side the are the mountain ranges of Bali. On the other, two thirds of the island including the beautiful coastline can be seen unfolding before your eyes. The trek may be tiring, but the beautiful view awaiting you at the rim is worth the trouble.
Although the shorter hike is less tiring, the longer hike is well worth the extra trouble. It takes about six hours in total, and if you want to make it to the peak to witness the sunrise you will have to start the climb at around midnight. The hike starts off at Pura Besakih, which is a vast collection of temples on the mountainside. After a walk of an hour or so, a strong torch will come very much in handy as you navigate the dense rainforest without the light of the moon. Following this is the tough, slippery walk straight up the mountain, 2,622km up. After a short rest at this ‘base camp,’ you take on the most dangerous part of the climb, where it is important to be wary of the cliffs. Once this part of the hike is done, you are rewarded with a view of a beautiful tropical sunrise in a way that only those who take on the mountain can truly enjoy.
Trekking in Gunung Agung is an experience that no television screen or photograph can truly describe. The tough trek is a small price to pay for the view, and if one decides to experience this climb, it is important to go prepared. A strong torch, or better yet a head torch is necessary for the rainforest trek, proper shoes; especially for the walk on the volcanic rock, don’t forget water, snacks, a warm jacket and a few other things necessary for the hike. Last but not the least, a thirst for adventure as well as plenty of determination.
There are plenty of hotels in Seminyak to relax in after an exhausting hike, but to truly pamper yourself, a 5 star hotel Seminyak such as the luxurious W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak should be at the top of your list.
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.Google+
Koh Phangan Elephant Trekking
A perfect way to explore the wilds of Koh Phangan, elephant trekking provides a truly unforgettable adventure that lets you get up close with these gentle giants as well. Travellers should look to stay at Koh Phangan hotels or resorts that let you enjoy the very best the island has to offer including elephant treks. Among the leading Koh Phangan resorts, Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa is one such option and is ideally located right by the pristine sands of a beach.
Home to lush tropical jungles and mountain landscapes, Koh Phangan and its rich natural scenery is best explored on elephant back. Taking place at locations such as the coastal village of Caloklum, elephant trekking gives you a chance to ride these animals along paths one may otherwise not get to traverse. A mahout sits up front on the elephant’s neck and will be your guide on this memorable excursion that will take you past picturesque scenery and some truly breathtaking vistas. Best of all you get a better appreciation of these creatures and can interact with them on your journey of discovery.
Kite Surfing
The popular sport of kite surfing is a happy combination of wakeboarding, surfing, paragliding, windsurfing, and some good ‘ol gymnastics to result in one completely awesome water sport enjoyed by first timers and sought after by professional kiters. This exciting water sport is a feature of many a Maldives island resort and your kiteboarding expectations will be surpassed at a Maldives luxury resort such as the Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, which will be happy to set you up with equipment for a fun session out under the sun. Beginners in this fun sport can enjoy it all year round, whilst pros will enjoy it best during May to October which features ideal natural conditions for the most thrills. One of the most exciting experiences is gliding across the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon and witnessing the vibrant marine life teeming beneath the waves. You’ll be able to catch sight of multi-hued fish and even sting rays, if you’re lucky. For the best gliding over water, you’ll want to ensure that you surf on islands that feature lagoons and generally stay away from those fringed by corals.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.
Happy Valley
How about leaving behind the monotony of work and stepping out for a well earned break? Well then think no further than the Happy Valley Shenzhen which is by far China’s most visited and enjoyed amusement park. Located in the Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Happy Valley can easily be reached by choosing a Shenzhen serviced apartment. Do consider a serviced apartment Shenzhen has to offer by staying at Somerset Garden City Shenzhen.
Covering an impressive 86 hectares, Happy Valley is made up of nine themed sections which include Typhoon Bay, Sunshine Beach, Mt. Adventure, Gold Mine Town, Spanish Square, Cartoon City, Playa Maya Water Park, Happy Times and Shangri-la-Woods. Opened in 2002, the park serves an array of exciting and absorbing rides that would make anyone want to come back a second time. Voyage through the dense forests of Mt. Adventure and arrive at ‘The Space Shot’ which will take you up to a height of 60 metres in the air where you can savour a few seconds of the surroundings before being hurtled down at an amazing speed. Take the little ones to Cartoon City where they are sure to be kept company by the numerous fairy tales on show. For jaw-dropping excitement, take on ‘Shooting the Chute’ which is the world’s highest fall located at Typhoon Bay.
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+