Author: auburn

Earn a Certificate for Diving

The Maldives islands in the south-west of India are a true diver’s paradise. The island archipelago boasts some of the most beautiful marine scenery since they are composed of coral-based reefs. The tropical splendor of Maldives is legendary around the world for her serene beaches, lush forests, and Maldives Water Sports. These aspects combined make the islands of the Maldives a grand setting where one can gain experience in the realm of diving and even earn a professional certificate.

Due to the nature of the Maldives, there are many institutes where one can enroll in courses to develop oneself in the art of diving. Many of the elite resorts located on the various islands, such as the Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas offer a wide variety of diving courses ranging from basic ones to PADI certified advanced courses for rescuers.

The wild-life of Maldives is incredibly diverse, and contains a rich variety of marine in abundance. The seas surrounding the islands boast over two thousand species of coral and an equal number of fish species as well, ranging from small schools of colourful reef fish to even whale sharks. The whale shark is the largest fish in the world, and the Maldives is the only place in the world where they can be seen all year round. There is also a wide variety of eel’s present in Maldivian seas, ranging from the cosmopolitan Moray-Eel to larger forms such as the Sting-ray and Manta-Ray respectively.

The Maldives is one of the most prominent places in the world when it comes to the presence of coral reefs, and given that coral reefs are the equivalent of under-water rain-forests, the scope of underwater life present in these amazing formations is extraordinary. If you are a diving enthusiast looking to obtain professional certification, then the magical under-water realms within the seas of the Maldives will be your perfect lecture hall.

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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Sukhumvit Soi Cowboy

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is arguably the best most famous tourist destination in Southeast Asia. Known for its vibrant culture and amazing attractions, Bangkok is home to timeless landmarks, bustling shopping districts, cultural attractions, and many options for leisure and recreation. Some of Bangkok’s iconic highlights include the the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, traditional Bangkok floating markets, Wat Arun, the Bangkok National Museum, and thriving red-light districts. A great hotel to accommodate yourself while looking for things to do in Sukhumvit is The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Bangkok.

Red-light districts and late-night entertainment zones are quite common in Bangkok, yet one which is truly a favorite in the city is Sukhumvit Soi Cowboy. Sukhmuvit Soi Cowboy, or simply Soi Cowboy, is a red-light district, in the form of an entire street, known for its high spirited and carefree atmosphere. Home to over 40 bars, night clubs and pubs, this straightforward red-light district is easily one of the most exotic and exciting places to visit for late-night entertainment.

Soi Cowboy is located between Soi 21 and Soi 23 in Sukhumvit, and is one of the most popular landmarks of Bangkok; there is hardly any local that does not know about it. The name ‘Soi Cowboy’ is a nod to the late T. G. Edwards, one of the first owners of a go-go bar, who was known for his signature cowboy hat. Soi Cowboy has come a long way since the days of T. G. Edwards, as today the street is flanked with some of Bangkok’s hottest go-go bars! Another reason why Soi Cowboy is so famous is that it is known for being straightforward with no scams; what you see is what you will get. Operating till about 2.30am each night, and catering especially to tourists and expatriates, Soi Cowboy is well worth visiting if you want to experience the wild Bangkok nightlife.

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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Adventures on the Ayung River

Bali, an island province of the Southeast Asian nation of Indonesia, is one of the most beautiful retreats in the region. Known for its splendid beaches, lovely lush forests, many archeologoical and cultural landmarks, and recreational attractions, Bali is also one of Indonesia’s most famous tourist destinations. Towns such as Ubud, Semiyak, Kuta, and Nusa Dua, are the island’s hottest locations for tourists. A great Ubud hotel that offers tranquil accommodation and a host of leisure and recreational facilities is the Alila Ubud Bali.

The longest river flowing through the island of Bali is the Ayung River. Originating from the Northern mountain ranges, this 75km long river flows close to Ubud and is a source of life and nourishment to the luscious forests in the area. The Ayung River, whose banks are known for its beautiful forest scenery, is also a top attraction for those seeking some exciting and adventure, as the river is a great location for white water rafting.

The Ayung River boasts of many Class II and Class III rapids, and its pristine and safe waters make it ideal for white water rafting. Unlike most other white water rivers, the Ayung River is not seasonal; meaning rafting enthusiasts can surf through these waters at any time of the year. The rapids, while promising loads of excitement and adventure can be enjoyed by both veterans and amateurs. There are many rafting centers around the area that will be more than happy to rent out internationally approved equipment and trained guides so that your adventure of the river will be that much more enjoyable. The stunning scenic beauty of the river, its hidden waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the luscious greenery of the river banks, make rafting through the Ayung an adventurous experience you are unlikely to ever forget!

Another great adventure activity is elephant trekking. You can explore the wonders of the banks of the Ayung River on top of a majestic elephant, which is sure to be an exciting and extraordinary experience.

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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Nature Watch in Habarana

Sri Lanka is known around the world for its palm tree lined beaches and warm tropical waters. The heart of the country however boasts vistas of a different kind. Mountains, rocky outcrops and lush greenery are a stark contrast to the coastal areas. Habarana is located in the district of Anuradhapura which is part of the North Central Province. Chaaya Village Habarana offers a real feel for the land and maintains a close to nature setting with cottage type accommodation that is styled on the thatched roof huts found in the surrounding areas.
Habarana is located at the heart of Sri Lanka’s ‘Cultural Triangle’. It is a convenient base for exploring the historical cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Sigiriya. Hotel accommodation is also easy enough to find. Minneriya National Park is located close by and having a more tranquil setting than some of the other parks in the country, it is perfect for observing the local fauna. The park surrounds the Minneriya tank which is frequented by sambar, deer, leopard, sloth bear and birds such as jungle fowl, grey herons, white pelican, grey hornbills and more. It is also a good place to spot large gatherings of Asian elephants.
Habarana and the surrounding towns, in general, are brimming with picturesque scenery: lakes, reservoirs, colossal trees, sweeping open spaces and more. You can book a guide and a vehicle to visit Minneriya or Kaudulla Park, explore the village shops on foot or go on a bird watching excursion. Cycling, hiking and boat tours can also be arranged through the hotel concierge or a tour company. The historic sites in Polonnaruwa are woven around waterways; the ancient palace in Sigiriya is built on an imposing, natural rock while the cave temple in Dambulla is built making use of a natural rock formation.

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+

Discover the Wild Life in Sri Lanka

Being an island in the Indian Ocean Sri Lanka is known world over for its natural beauty and the beaches that wash the shores of the island. However this tropical island is also home to countless number of wild life. Having one of the UNESCO world heritage site declared rain forest it’s no surprise for the abundance of the flora and fauna in the country. Some of the famous national parks in the country include , Yala , Udawalawe , Wilpaththu , Kumana among others.

Yala is a key sanctuary in the south and remains a popular spot to catch a glimpse of leopards. With its popularity rising there has been a significant expansion of hotels in yala Sri Lanka. One that remains in the forefront is The Secret Hotels set among the thick tropical forests the surroundings of the hotel is home to many exotic species. The hotel is a perfect place to make the most of Yala.

Among some of the fascinating facts about Yala , the national park has the highest leopard population in the world. The second most visited national park in Sri Lanka Yala has thousands of visitors every year.

Sri Lanka has one of the highest endemism in the world , most species of flora and fauna are endemic to the country. Sri Lanka also boasts of the highest elephant concentration density in the world , and Habarana secondary forest take credit for this.

The reason for the wild array of wild life in Sri Lanka can be attributed to the difference in altitude in the country. From sea level elevations rise upto 2500m. The country remains home to many species that are endemic , however in the recent past there has been expansion of human population which resulted in loss of habitat and as a result the reduction of habitat.

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+

Mount Agung Trek: Climbing the Majestic Bali Volcano

Renown for breathtaking beaches and mysterious temples, Bali is an exotic tropical destination. While Bali’s most famous outdoor activity would be a day lounging along the beach, further inland lie the exciting trail up Bali’s most famous active volcano, Mount Agung. Situated in the Karangasem district in Eastern Bali, the majestic Mount Agung is the backdrop for many beautiful hotels including Alila Manggis.

Measuring a height of 3142 meters, Mount Agung is Bali’s tallest mountain and fifth tallest volcano in Indonesia. It is also one of the island’s holiest sites with the Balinese belief that it is a replica of the mythical 5 peaked Mount Meru that is at the centre of the physical, metaphysical and spiritual universe according to the Hindu, Jain and Buddhist faiths. Found along the slopes of Mount Agung is the sacred Mother Temple Pura Besakih which miraculously survived a fatal volcanic eruption in 1963. Although there are multiple trails that lead to the summit of Mount Agung, the shortest trek is a five hour journey that is challenging and yet rewarding as the breathtaking views of Eastern Bali countryside unravels around you. To reach the summit of Mount Agung in time for sunrise, it is advised that you leave your Ubud Boutique Hotel Bali at 1.00 a.m and head to Pura Besakih to begin the uphill trek to Mount Agung’s peak.

Although the trail itself is safe enough to be journeyed alone, it is best to travel in groups accompanied by an experienced guide. The uphill journey begins with an offering at Pura Besakih before the trail leads you through a jungle as you embark on the six hour climb to the volcano’s peak. An alternative route up Mount Agung takes you past Pasar Agung Temple along a shorter trail. Nevertheless, the view from atop Mount Agung is worth the arduous journey with sweeping views of the East Bali, the neighbouring islands of Lombok and Nusa Penida and the startling 2300-foot wide crater of Mount Agung bound to leave you mesmerized.

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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Water falls in Sri Lanka as a location for film production

Undoubtedly one of nature’s most wonderful and beautiful creations, waterfalls across the world have stolen the hearts of nature enthusiasts. Even tourists who seek relaxation during their holidays often strive to find and witness such natural phenomenon. From the startlingly panoramic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Africa and the Venezuelan Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world, to the world renowned Niagara Falls on the border between Canada and the United States of America to the picture perfect Plitvice Falls in Croatia, waterfalls have stunned many and many others continue to flock towards them. When in Sri Lanka, the grandeur of waterfalls is no less impressive and indeed, is more abundant. With the major rivers in the country commencing from the top of Piduruthalagala Mountain, the highest in the country, the waters find its way to the Indian Ocean through rivers, crevices and falls, creating panoramic sceneries that are sought after for many a purpose.

One such purpose is film production where companies that provide film location services Sri Lanka often use waterfalls as backdrops for local television dramas, advertisements and films. Companies such as  which engage in providing such services find Sri Lanka to be replete with locations that are ideal for many filmic purposes.

As the Central Highlands work its way towards the coastal belt, a high concentration of such waterfalls are found primarily in the Ratnapura, Kegalle and Nuwara Eliya districts and falls such as the Dehena Fall, Diyaluma Fall, Ramboda Fall and Devathura Fall have been witnessed, photographed and filmed over and over. Dodan Ella, located within travelling distance of the famed Bopath Ella, was the site of a film production named ‘Inspector Champa’. However, the reverse has already taken place where a waterfall has been named after a film such as Surathali Fall. When witnessing the splendour of the island’s waterfalls, it feels as though Sri Lanka is truly blessed and an exploration of the country is incomplete without making a visit to at least one iconic waterfall.

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+

Sand Dunes of Mui NE : An Unexpected Vietnamese Treasure

Boasting lush, green mountains, mouth-watering cuisine and a unique culture, Vietnam is an exotic travel destination that cannot be ignored. A rising star in the Asian tourism market, Vietnam is a land of contrasts with pristine beaches, rolling hills and a desert making Vietnam a must-visit destination.

A four hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City lies the resort town of Mui Ne. Once a sleepy fishing village whose only visitors where a few adventurous travellers who camped along its undisturbed beach, today Mui Ne is a popular tourist destination that is home to many a luxury Beach Resort Mui Ne. Beyond the breathtaking 16 kilometre-long stretch of beach lies the alluring Mui Ne sand dunes that stand majestically overlooking Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa. Situated 10 kilometres to the north of the famous resort strip and spanning 2 square-kilometres, the Mui Ne desert has impressive dunes that measure up to 10 meters in depth.

Take a guided tour of the dunes and explore the famous White Dunes, also known as Bau Trang, and watch the sunrise over the Mui Ne. As the day progresses seek refuge under the pine trees that line the White Lake with a cool drink purchased from one of many stalls situated here and admire the view from the top of some of the larger dunes in the desert that is reputed to be the driest spot in Southeast Asia. Visit the smaller Red Dunes with its characteristic reddish-brown sand and find visitors sliding along the slopes of dunes on rented sleds while photography-enthusiasts trek towards the best location to capture the surrounding natural beauty while up above kite flyers enjoy a birds-eye view of the dunes and the horizon. Avoid the blazing warm afternoons that the region is known for, and take an early morning or late afternoon guided tour of the region with a stop at the nearby fishing village, Fairy Springs that runs through the dunes and the 50 metre Lotus Lake that is the region’s only water source.

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 Samui Canopy Adventures

Canopy Adventures locations is on the island of Koh Samui, which is a small but exquisitely beautiful island made up of white sand beaches and rain forests inland. This location is a hidden beauty with breathtaking waterfall views from 21 platforms high up in the trees, via 15 thrilling cable rides over 2000 meters. You will be flying over some of the most amazingly beautiful and enchanting views you’ve ever witnessed from this bird’s-eye-view vantage point. You’ll see gorgeous waterfalls, exotic jungle vegetation, and coast lines of beautiful white sand and palm trees. The Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas is a Luxury Hotel, which provides a haven of comfort and tranquility for those who want to relax and unwind. This sophisticated hotel emanates style, elegance and class. Guests will be treated to fabulous and tantalizing culinary delights by the expert team of professionals.

Canopy Adventures will pick the guests up from the hotel, and shuttle them off to their base camp for a safari ride in their 4×4 vehicle, which is an adventure all its own. As you pull up to Canopy Adventures, you’ll be greeted by the friendly and highly trained staff, and given delicious refreshments that only the fresh fruit of the rainforest can provide. During and after refreshments you’ll find out exactly what you’ll be doing, you’ll receive your safety equipment which includes your safety harness, your gloves, you’re your helmet and then you’re on your way for the thrill of your life. But first comes the thorough training so that you can soon begin your flight, from platform to platform, through our amazing rain forest. Enjoy the cable ride, where you will be taking in the amazing views like few people ever get to experience. There are practice areas, and you will receive thorough training that day for about 20 minute, along with your safety equipment with expert staff. The professionals will teach you exactly what to do on the practice lifts, and then they’ll help you at each and every cable to zip through and over trees and beautiful scenery.

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+

Visit the kingdom of the giants at Mirissa

Down the Southern Coast of the island one can find a small coastal town , Mirissa, a popular destination for whale watching in Sri Lanka. One can catch a glimpse of the beautiful whales , large groups of dolphins when travelling in the seas off Mirissa.

There are many tour organizers who take visitors into the sea on whale watching cruises. One of the pioneers in this regard would be Jetwing Travels. They have perfect packages centered around the whale watching and Dolphin watching experience. They do airport pick ups to providing accommodation as well as taking visitors on whale watching cruises that are experiences of a life time as they enable visitors to dine on the deck and are unforgettable experiences.

The whale watching season in Sri Lanka is from November to April while the peak is from December to March. The ideal time to go on a tour would be the early hours. Some of the most beautiful blue whales, Bryde’s whales, Sperm whale , Killer whale and Pilot whales. There are different types of Dolphins found in these waters , such as the Spinner Dolphins, bottle nose Dolphins , Risso’s Dolphin , Stripped Dolphin.

The Sri Lankan coast guards are on constant alert during the peak seasons to ensure the safety of the tourists and locals.

Mirissa is not too far from Galle and Hikkaduwa , which are other busy towns in the Southern belt of the country. Galle boasts of the world famous Galle fort , a declared UNESCO World Heritage site as well as Hikkaduwa popular for its corals and the sandy beaches.

Whale watching in Sri Lanka is a not to be missed experience for those visiting Sri Lanka.

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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