Author: auburn

Explore Coral Reef Hikkaduwa

Take a trip to Sri Lanka’s much loved South Coast. The main roads run along the coast offering spectacular views of palm fringed beaches and the Indian Ocean. You will pass quaint, up and coming beach towns along the way. Make a stop at the country’s most popular party beach, Hikkaduwa. Hotels line the beachfront along with quirky bars and eateries. It is also known for water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, and for the less adventurous, glass bottom boat rides. To experience the Ocean right at your doorstep, stay at Citrus Hikkaduwa.

Hikkaduwa Beach is a long sandy stretch and its biggest attraction is its main shallow fringing reef that runs from close to the fishing harbour four kilometers to the south. The sea is calm and shallow; the reef is easily accessible and close to the shore. It is the main reason for Hikkaduwa’s popularity as a diving and snorkelling destination. The best time to explore the coral reefs around Hikkaduwa is between the months of November and April. During these months the sea is at its calmest and the clear waters help with good visibility.
The stunning reef is home to a host of marine creatures of all colours and shapes. Less obvious to observers but just as important is the role the reef plays in protecting the coast from sea erosion. There are plenty of coral species that make up the reefs of Hikkaduwa. You will find as many as sixty species of hard coral. Boulder type coral and encrusting corals are present along with large stands of Montipora corals and small stands of branching Acropora corals. The rising sea water temperatures that were recorded in 1998 damaged a significant amount of the coral along Hikkaduwa’s reefs but today, scientists have found evidence that new corals are forming.

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.
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Adventures in Juara, Tioman

The island of Tioman is always an alluring place to visit, offering picturesque scenery and many interesting things to do that will capture the interest of the active visitor. There is only one sizable village on the eastern coast of the island, Juara; however you will have the opportunity to engage in many engrossing adventure activities here. As you enjoy these adventures stay at a quality Tioman resort such as the Berjaya Tioman Resort. At this charming getaway you can enjoy the best this island has to offer.

You will find that Juara boasts an appealing stretch of beach featuring palm-lined shores, soft white sands and shimmering clear seas. From this stretch of beachfront you will have the opportunity to indulge in a number of water sports. Visitors can engage in swimming and snorkelling amidst the splendid coral reefs of the area, which is sure to be an enthralling experience. You will also have the opportunity to go canoeing in the waters of the area. Diving and sea fishing are other water sports that you can enjoy in Juara. Divers will find a diving centre which features certified instructors and the necessary equipment.

Many visitors choose to walk from the town of Tekek to Juara which is always a captivating experience as you will pass through a picturesque stretch of natural scenery. Visitors will encounter cascading waterfalls and plenty of interesting flora and fauna including monkeys, lizards and attractive flowers and plants.

From Juara you will have the opportunity to explore the nearby jungles by hiring a boat with a guide. You will experience the majesty of the mangrove forests with their denizens such as giant lizards, butterflies, rodents and snakes. You may also undertake a boat excursion to the well-known Mukut waterfalls. Another unusual experience in the environs of Juara would be to visit the local turtle sanctuary which is dedicated to the preservation of the threatened local turtles.

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+

National museum Kuala Lumpur- representing the rich history and culture of Malaysia

Located on Jalan Damansara Malaysia, the National Museum of Kuala Lumpur is a must attend venue during your visit to the city. Travellers interested in history and architecture could get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia at the museum. Built by the British in 1898, the museum was opened in 1963 and portrays traditional Minangkabau & Malay architectural features. Tourists could find accommodation at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur which includes leading properties such as Berjaya Times Square Hotel that provide guests easy access to sought after tourists attractions.

Exhibits at the museum are spread across two floors and divided into 4 galleries. The design was done by Ho Kok Hoe architect who was inspired by the traditional Malay architecture. During your visit you will be able to witness murals that span across the entrance. Artefacts that depict culture, history, arts and crafts as well as local weaponry and flora & fauna are showcased at the museum for the viewing pleasure of the visitors. Ground floor of the museum is dedicated for exhibits of the Stone Age, Bronze and Iron Age among which the bronze statue of Avalokiteshvara of Bidor and the Javan Borobudur. The second floor of the museum holds artefacts representing colonial history to independence as well as the headgear worn by Malay rulers of the past. A well known part of the museum is the Istana Satu, an old timber palace built by Sultan Zainal Abidin III, Sultan of Terengganu in year 1884. The local cultural history enthusiasts could support the department of National Museums by volunteering as museum tour guides to meet the demand of tourists visiting the museum. These tours are conducted in English, French and Japanese languages.

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+

Than Prawet Waterfall

Venture towards the country’s southeast to find the little island of Koh Phangan. Resort and bungalow properties operate during most of the month, to serve visitors looking for a quiet getaway. They cater to party goers during the full moon. This little island in Thailand is asleep for the most part and only comes to life once a month for the famed ‘Full Moon Party’. Hat Rin plays host to the large scale, wild party that welcomes thirty thousand people who all occupy one beach. After the nightlong party, the crowd thins and island returns to its regular slow pace. Koh Phangan is looking to establish itself as a luxurious destination and is already home to Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas. There is plenty in the way of natural beauty; jungles, pristine bays and waterfalls await discovery.

Than Prawet is one of the two waterfalls in the Thong Nai Pan Noi area of Koh Phangan Island. It is a waterfall that flows year round but can be difficult to find due to the lack of signboards. However, it is worth the extra effort, for avid hikers in particular. In reality, the Than Prawet Waterfall is made up of a series of waterfalls that run alongside each other over great boulders and smaller rocks amidst abundant green foliage.

A hiking trail that follows a stream running to the village stretches two kilometers and will take you to the waterfall. Alternatively, you can opt to reach Than Prawet by making part of the journey by road. You can take a motor vehicle along the road by the bay but the last stretch will need to be made on foot. Hiking on from that point can prove challenging for some. Sturdy footwear is recommended while hiking alone or outside of daylight hours is not advised.

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+

Al-Hoota Cave – Nizwa, Oman – A Mesmeric Creation of Nature

Located in the Al Hamra district, Oman, the Al-Hoota Cave is a natural creation beyond compare. Within the cave all forms of life thrive. In order to ensure that these life forms are protected and not impinged upon, only 500m of the cave is open to tourists. The length of the cave is 4.5km and only 10% is revealed to the public. A forty five minute tour would disclose quite a few secrets of the cave. Be prepared to gaze upon the dangling stalactites and trace unusual shapes that might come alive on your visit. Less than two hours from the cave one would come across the Alila Jabal Akhdar. An ideal resort in Oman from which to set out on your adventures, it enjoys a unique location which affords an incredible view of the Al Hajar Mountains and creates an appetite for exploration, more precisely to the Al-Hoota Cave.

The Al-Hoota Cave was opened to the public in November 2006. However it dates back to approximately two million years ago. A chemical yet ‘magical’ reaction helped form the stalactites. Limestone reacts when dissolved in carbonic acid water, and the results are seen within the cave. When touring the cave, look overhead and what you will find is a galaxy of stalactite formations.

A small northern lake and a central lake also punctuate the tour of the cave. The large amounts of water within the cave create the ideal surroundings for all forms of life. Gliding in the waters of the main lake are blind fish also called “garra barreimiae”. Arthropods, molluscs, bats, water beetles, large spiders and other rare and endemic species have also made the cave their humble home.

The right amount of light shines through the cave providing a unique view. Make sure to book your tour to the cave as only a limited amount of visitors are allowed in each day. It is truly a marvel of nature!

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+

A Surf Trip to Arugambay- Ride the Wave

The island of Sri Lanka is blessed with numerous beaches around it, whether you want to lie on the beach or take on a bit of adventure there is always a place to do so. One such place that’s great for surfing is Arugambay on the Eastern coast Sri Lanka. If you’re wondering how to get to this surf heaven there are many options such as going by bus, train or an air taxi Sri Lanka. The latter is undoubtedly the easiest and fastest way among the three and one of the leading providers of this service is Cinnamon Air

. Operating from various points in Sri Lanka this air taxi service offers affordable and convenient domestic flights. They take off and land in natural waters in the island.

Arugambay is on one of the top ten surf points in the world. The best period to plan a trip to this part of the country is between May and November. Due to it’s location the area is predominant of right-hand point breaks. The three main points are, “The Point”, “Pottuvil Point” and the “Crocodile Rock” which can be accessed from the main line of hotels in half an hour by tuk. There are also other points around one and half hours away and can be accessed by boat. Another advantage for Arugambay with regard to location is that unlike many other tourist hot hubs, Arugambay stays shielded away from the North Western and South Eastern monsoon. The monsoon affects most other areas at least for half the year.

Apart from the great reputation as a surf destination, there are a variety of things on offer in this coastal village. There are a rich diversity of birds and wildlife, beautiful landscape and there have also been ruins of ancient Buddhist temples found from areas around here. One such excavation is the “Muhudu Maha Viharaya”. If you are out looking for some adrenaline rush out in the waters there’s no place other than Arugambay!

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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Hua Hin elephant camps and trekking

A mere two hundred kilometers from Bangkok, on the west coast of the Gulf of Thailand, you will find Hua Hin. Resorts of the luxurious kind, upscale condominiums and holiday homes all offer spectacular ocean views. This beach side town has become a popular holiday getaway for both locals from Bangkok and tourists. Hua Hin was even a favourite vacation spot for the Royal Family in the 1920’s. It was once a quiet fishing village; today there are multiple housing developments, golf courses, shopping malls and hotels like the Anantara Hua Hin Resort but the town has managed to hold onto much of its old world charm.

Elephants have been a part of Thai history for centuries. They were used for transportation of people and goods, they were made to assist in construction and even participated in cultural and religious rituals. Today, elephants have become almost redundant as a mode of transport but in Hua Hin you will have the rare opportunity to visit an elephant camp make a trip on elephant back. These tours also offer the experience of meeting the elephants, petting and feeding them.

The jungle tour consists of a wooden seat placed on the elephant’s back. It is in this seat, fitted with a hand rail that riders will sit. The mahout sits up front, on the animal’s neck. He will direct the elephant on the course. An hour’s trip will show you elephants bathing, how they are used for logging and guests will be offered refreshments. It is wise to carefully follow instructions of the mahout, as elephants are large beasts that can be very dangerous if angered. In recent times there has been much scrutiny into the welfare of elephants and controversy surrounding elephant rides. It is worth conducting your own research prior to visiting these attractions, in order to make an informed decision.

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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Island Safari

Koh Samui was once a sleepy remote location, home to only a quiet fishing community; today, Thailand’s largest island is a popular holiday destination. It attracts travellers of all descriptions. Accommodation on the island ranges from beachside bungalows to luxury resorts. Koh Samui is famous for palm-fringed, white, sandy beaches, coconut groves and rugged rainforest. It stands apart from Thailand’s big cities with the frenzied activity that is usually expected. However Koh Samui is known for its raging after dark activity. Chaweng Beach, on which you will find Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, has a party atmosphere and is well known for its cabaret shows.

To explore the mountains of Koh Samui in style take a Land Rover tour and get ready for an adventure. Several tour companies now offer full day or half day trips that take you off road and bring you up close and personal with the highlights of the island. You can expect to see: the famous Grandma and Grandpa rocks located on Lamai Beach; Luang Pordaeng, the mummified monk which is a sacred local relic; Wat Phra Yai or Big Buddha Temple that houses several shrines and statues; the twelve meter tall golden Buddha statue that is the most celebrated landmark in Samui, it can be found on Big Buddha Beach on the northern coast of the island but can be seen several kilometers away. Stunning views await as you drive high into the mountains, along sea cliffs and then into low valleys, like Nuns Valley with its rural villages.

You can pick a tour depending on your interests. Some companies will transport you to and from your hotel and you can expect a tour guide who will explain the attractions and experiences. Refreshments and a traditional meal maybe provided, depending on the type of tour. Animal shows using baby elephants, crocodiles and monkeys are also offered on some itineraries but welfare of the animals is often questionable and in most cases, best avoided.

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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Day ride with stylish quad bikes in Samui

 

Koh Samui in Thailand has long since been attracting holidaymakers. It has evolved with the times and remains a top pick among vacation destinations. Make a trip and you can expect to find in Koh Samui: 5 star resorts, long stretches of pristine beach, swanky restaurants, top of the line spas and ever popular beach bars. Despite adapting to meet the demands of the modern traveller, it has maintained much of its authenticity. Thailand’s largest island was once home to a quiet fishing community and was only visited by the odd backpacker. Today, it caters to budget travellers with simple beachside bungalows as well as luxury travellers who opt for accommodation at options such as Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort.

The island has recently discovered quad bikes. It is a fun and adventurous way to experience the sights and sounds. You will have the opportunity to power through the wilds of tropical jungles while birds call to you from the trees above and monkeys swing from branch to branch. You will also see magnificent waterfalls and magical places that are unspoiled and hidden away waiting to be discovered.
Quad bike tours are conducted for groups that enjoy the sport. You will be provided with a top of the range bike, which is sturdy and safer than a scooter or most other options available to tourists. Koh Samui has great weather ideal for outdoor activity and the varying terrain from flat beaches to hilly jungles offers up an invigorating challenge. The tours are led by experienced guides who are friendly and ready to assist new riders. There will be many amazing photo opportunities so remember to pack a camera and get set for the ride of your life!

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+

Start Your Adventure Journey in Maldives with Diving

The pleasant cluster of islands in the Indian Ocean, known as the Republic of Maldives is blessed with spectacular natural beauty and is endowed with a relaxing atmosphere that is more than conducive to taking some time off from one’s busy and hectic schedule. Thousands of tourists that flock to the Maldivian isles in their pursuit of pristine beaches and tropical sun are scarcely disappointed because residing in a Maldives resort hotel is sure to cater to your every need.

Maldives embodies the true spirit of having a ‘holiday in the sun’, and whether you seek adventure and excitement during your vacation, or a quiet and peaceful getaway, these isles will not disappoint. For the adventurous tourist, there are a multitude of water sports on offer, and diving is possibly one of the best ways to begin exploring the wonders of the marine world that resides beneath the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. While the North and South Atolls are both renowned for their exquisite diving sites, holidaymakers residing in a resort in the South Male Atoll such as the Anantara Veli Maldives Resort & Spa will have the opportunity to explore ‘kandus.’ The eastern reef of the Atoll alone is home to over six kandus, or channels, that are ideal for diving as they attract a myriad of marine life that come to feast on nutrients brought in by the channel.

For the lucky few, Cocoa Thila can offer one of the best diving experiences in the South Male Atoll for this particular site, on a day with a moderate current, is frequented by grey reef sharks, sweetlips, groupers, snappers and eagle rays. However, for those who wish to dive to see grey reef sharks, the Embudhoo Kandu channel is the best.

While diving in the South Male Atoll has its own attractions, divers who wish to explore the abundant coral life in Maldives should make their way to the North Male Atoll, which hosts some of the most pristine and beautiful coral reefs in the world. All in all, diving in Maldives, whether it is sharks or coral reefs that you seek, is an experience worth having.

 

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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