Author: auburn

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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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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Minneriya National Park- nature lover’s paradise

Minneriya National Park which is located between the cities of Habarana and Pollonnuruwa was declared as a National Park in 1997. The park is an ideal place to watch elephant gatherings during the dry season. Home to different habitats and arrays of flora and fauna the National Park of Manneriya is a dream come true for nature lovers and photographers. Travellers planning holidays in Sri Lanka can use the services offered by the well renowned tour provider,Walkers Tours Sri Lanka and enjoy a comfortable tour through the North central province.

The central attraction of the park is the Minneriya Tank built by King Mahasena. During June to September this is an unbelievable place to observe the elephants and the flocks of birds such as the painted storks, pelicans, open bills and many other migratory and local birds. Travellers could also spot the Sambar deer, sloth bears, and the leopards when visiting the park. A feeding ground for the Sri Lankan elephants the reservoir sustains a large herd of elephants at a given time. The landscape of the park is simply magnificent; it consists of wetlands, grasslands and tropical evergreen forests as well as small shrubs areas. Apart from these there are a large collection of reptiles in the park such as the endemic and endangered red-lipped lizard and the skinks.

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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Jungle Kayaking in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, a city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous tourist destinations. Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th Century BC until the capital was moved to Polonnaruwa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura has many ancient ruins which intrigued even modern archeologists and engineers. A recommendable Anuradhapura hotel to stay in is the Ulagalla Resort; which offers tranquil accommodation and a host of luxury amenities.

While visiting the ruins of Anuradhapura is the city’s primary attraction, the city is also famous for several recreational activities; such as kayaking. Anuradhapura has many lakes and rivers, most of which were constructed by the ancient kings for irrigation and plantation. Many of these lakes and rivers flow through jungles, making kayaking all the more exciting and intriguing.

Kayaking, as it is, is an extremely exciting activity. Kayaking can done either alone or with a crowd, based on the type of kayak available. Tandems; boats which two or more persons can travel in, are great if you want to go on an adventure with your loved ones of friends. When the lush and mysterious jungles of Anuradhapura are added into the equation, the whole experience becomes much of magical. These jungles, which have seen the history of the city, are beautiful and offer a sense of tranquility and calmness. Kayaking through them is sure to be an outdoor activity which will leave you with an unforgettable experience. There are many hotels and resorts in Anuradhapura which offer Kayaking equipment and other services. These hotels are located in close proximity to some of the lakes which are most suitable for kayaking, so you should be able to get going without much hassle.

The jungle kayaking experience in Anuradhapura is sure to be both exciting and unforgettable, so don’t forget to try it out when you visit Anuradhapura.

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 sports in Koh Samui, an expedition through the ocean for the adventurer in you

Patched artistically with tall green coconut trees and bordered by a coastline of white sandy beaches, Koh Samui is surrounded on all sides by an azure ocean that changes color from dawn to dusk just like the colourful flora and fauna hiding beneath them. The skies are often reflected in these near magical waters, giving the entire scenery an almost heavenly aura. However, this is not the only reason why one should make Koh Samui a must-see on their list as the abundant variety of water sports available make it well worth a stay too. When on this island, a good choice of accommodation among the many Koh Phangan resorts would be the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa. Located amidst lush greenery, this resort offers an interesting range of comfortable villas and recreational activities to choose from, along with easy access to a number of water sporting sites.

First on the list is snorkeling and diving, where one gets to swim with marine life and explore the famous crystal coves and coral bays surrounding the island. Popular spots for these activities would be Koh Tao and the Ang Thong Marine Park. If one wants to be Robinson Crusoe for a day, they can certainly do so by touring along the many islands of the Samui archipelago by a chartered yacht or on one of the many exciting sailing cruises and with waters rich and teeming with fish like in Koh Samui, it is almost an obligation for visitors to go on at least one game fishing trip.

Individuals who prefer a more hands-on form of exploration can try kayaking across and through the exotic forms of overhanging cliffs and caves, mostly at Angthong National Park and Coral Island. Jet skiing, stand-up paddling, kite boarding, and wind surfing too are available for the holidaying adrenaline aficionado. Finally, amusement parks like Coco Splash Water Park in Lamai and Aquapark in Chaweng offer an appealing choice of activities, rides, and slides for both children and adults.

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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Rock climbing in Phuket: Explore the Limestone Trail

Thailand’s island retreat of Phuket is renowned for its pristine beaches and majestic rock formations. With most parts of the island being covered by mountainous terrains spanning from the island’s north to its south, it is not surprising that the name ‘Phuket’ derives from Thai word for mountain. The island’s towering mountain range offers breathtaking views of Phuket’s coastline and is popular among rock climbing enthusiasts who can also enjoy Phuket Luxury Accommodation among other lodging options.

Phuket’s mountains and cliffs have much to offer both amateur and experienced rock climbers. The best example of the diversity that Phuket offers rock climbers is found at Tonsai in Railay Beach, where its high limestone cliffs is a world renown rock climbing destination with a host of trails that cater to beginners and experienced climbers. To the north of Phuket lies Phang Nga Bay which hosts impressive limestone mountains that offer climbers a more peaceful and yet equally memorable rock climbing experience. Here, both the mainland and the beach of Koh Yao Noi offer several routes that cater to the adventurous rock climber. The Phang Nga Bay, located near Point Yamu by COMO Phuket is frequented by tourists who visit the beach to marvel at the forty limestone islands that rise 300-400 meters above the sea. Indeed the coastal belt ranging from Phuket’s Phra Nang Cave Beach to Railay East beach remain popular among rock climbers who find their efforts rewarded by the commanding views of Phukhet’s shores.

One of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches is found in the Hat Tham Phra Nang area which is encircled by a high limestone cliff that contains the legendary Tham Phra Nang Nok (Outer Princess Cave) that is believe to be home to the mythical Sea princess. Rock climbing is necessary to visit this site which also contains a hidden ‘ Holy Princess Pool’ found on the side of the mountain while also offering panoramic views of the surrounding beaches and rocky islands from the mountain’s summit.

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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Touring an Arabian Wildlife Park

The Sir Bani Yas Island is the largest island that belongs to the Emirate Abu Dhabi. It is a treasure-trove of wonders that boasts entertainment at its finest along with an array of natural attractions. In addition to the blissful white sanded beaches that border this island, the Sir Bani Yas is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, the largest park of its kind in the country.

Occupying over half of the Sir Bani Yas Island, the wild life park is a must do for all those visiting the island. Authentic Arabia complete with the wild life is brought to life at the Sir Bani Yas Wildlife Park as it is home to a number of animals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula. The endangered Arabian Oryx, the Sand Gazelle and Mountain Gazelle are among the Arabian treats available at the park. As the park boasts an authentic wild life setting the many inhabitants of the sanctuary are free to roam about here and even successfully multiply in numbers. If you are staying at the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi, you can get the hotel to organize a perfect wildlife excursion just for you. These resorts Abu Dhabi has goes one step further in ensuring guests have a holistic tour in their holiday destination.

Over 10,000 animals call the Arabian Wild Park their home and these include a number of hyenas and cheetahs as well adding a touch of excitement to your wildlife excursion. Apart from the wildlife, the park offers a series of fun and adventures activities such as, nature trails, mountain biking and exclusive outdoor dining experiences that enable visitors to maximally enjoy the wild side of Sir Bani Yas. Although the Arabian Wildlife Park is all fun and entertainment on the outside, it is in its essence created to conserve the true treasures of Arabia.

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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Mountain Biking in Abu Dhabi

The raw masculinity emulated by the rugged terrains of Abu Dhabi makes this the perfect spot for the real rush of adventure. The endless desert vistas adorned with an occasional camel or sheep farm is among all activities perfect for mountain biking. As you ride through rough conditions you can experience not just an authentic dose of unspoiled adventure but you also have an opportunity to enjoy a glimpse of the nomadic version of the Emirati lifestyle. So get yourself a hardy mountain bike and soar through the endless jagged plains of the capital city of the UAE.

Mountain Biking in the UAE is so popular that it is one of the many activities offered in Abu Dhabi’s annual adventure challenge. Despite being a must do activity in the city, packages are not readily available and even maps for this purpose is scarce. If you want to mountain bike for a personal rush of adventure, hire or purchase a bike and all the necessary accessories to go with it. Here there are no maps so you will have to learn to make use of the GPS to find your way around. The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is one of the many luxury hotels Abu Dhabi has that provides ample information with this regard. It really helps to have information readily at hand to plan your perfect mountain biking adventure.

Although many head over to the Al Hajar Mountain Range for off road adventure, it is not necessarily the best spot for Mountain biking. Nirvana for the mountain biker is the terrain that lies between the desert sand and the high mountains as it provides the perfect fast flowing single track with infrequent rocky steps and the real challenging climbs, all with a firm base which provides the much needed grip for those knobbly tires. The way down from the hills offers the euphoric experience that makes you want to stick your legs to the side and ‘wheee’ in delight.; the whole package is real adventure packed with plenty of fun.

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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Great Night Spots in Colombo

Like big cities around the world Colombo offers a selection of clubs, pubs, lounges, bars and casinos spread throughout the city with a concentration in the Fort area and down Galle Road and Duplication Road. The bars and clubs in the Fort area are usually part of big hotels. However exciting new venues appear to be changing the city’s night time scene. Cinnamon Red Colombo one of the newest business hotels Colombo in the heart of Colpetty is located close to where the action is.

Although many night spots are still the traditional dim indoor venues crowded with people, the culture is changing somewhat with many night owls preferring to sit out in the open on rooftops of the latest lounges that offer gorgeous city views, informal seating and innovative cocktail mixes. Some venues also offer open cobblestoned areas where pub crawlers can sit on wooden chairs and enjoy drinks, listen to live music, dance if they want to and have their pick of food from the restaurants around. The high point of many city clubs are the special events held throughout the year featuring music for dancing, good food and drink. Ladies nights and other promotions draw the crowds. The city pubs are not to be out done. Some of them have promotions during the weekends that attract a full house and some have always been more popular than others. Some pubs have created an interesting ambience, offer specially designed cocktails and are popular with people who enjoy a quiet drink and chat with friends. Pub crawlers can also head down to the Mt Lavinia beach to enjoy food, drinks and dancing on the beach. Colombo also has a series of restaurants cum bars that are frequented by local tipsters although no live music and dancing is available here and they are not the usual ‘night spot’. Some of these are now classified as dodgy bars and are part of a popular nighttime city tour. Night spots routinely start at around 10 pm and continue into the wee hours of the morning.

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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