auburn | The Adventure Travel Site

Cruising Down the Dubai Creek or Marina – An Aquatic Adventure to Cherish

Garnering a reputation as a commercial city of ultramodern architecture, luxury shopping and endless entertainment, Dubai has made its mark as a highly sought-after tourist destination. Cruise down the waterways in the city that never sleeps as you choose the Dhow Cruise as your next entertainment activity in Dubai.

What Is It?

Reflective of the city’s history of sailing vessels that carried goods to the Arabian Gulf, the Dhow Cruises in Dubai are often led by dhow captains waiting to earn an extra buck from tourism, a result of the increasing popularity of container vessels to transport goods and services, compelling them to turn to other sources of income. This offers tourists of 5-star resorts in Dubai as well as other hotels an opportunity to secure an action-packed cruise featuring dinner, functioned by several operators.

Features

The Dhow Cruises are located within city limits, neighbouring most lodgings like Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. Daytime cruises are often inclusive of a sightseeing tour of the city from the Dubai Creek or the marina while the night-time cruise features music and a buffet amidst blinding lights. While the basic offerings in all Dhow Cruises are similar, guests are advised to compare packages and prices of different operators prior to confirming the cruise.

Image via Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Your Options

Your options for the Dhow Cruise lie in the night-time and daytime, at the Dubai Creek or marina. Contemporary travellers are likely to prefer the option of a Dhow Cruise at the marina where sights are glamorous and modern, while the old souls may savour memories cruising down the Dubai Creek beside the historic centre of the city.

The Ideal Time

Dubai is a city blessed with sunshine all year round, making a tour of the city rather tolerable at any time. However, November through April is the ideal time for a vacation, if one wishes to avoid excessive amounts of heat. While cruise prices tend to rise during this season, the packages remain the same. Most operators offer both daytime and night-time cruises with a range of features to choose from.

Your Kayaking Adventure in Abu Dhabi – A Journey Through the Still Waters

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE is not only a commercial city known for its skyscrapers and oil exports but is also an active tourism destination offering an excitement-filled vacation to travellers all around the world. Kayaking has become a recent favourite among the many activities offered to visitors in Abu Dhabi and here are some of the top kayaking spots in the city to explore.

Photo by Hillebrand Steve, USFWS on Pixnio

Kayaking in the Mangroves

A vacation at Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort is a guaranteed pass to plunge into a range of water sports. Therefore, kayaking in the mangroves has become one of the most sought-after activities in Abu Dhabi for leisure and entertainment. Kayaking through the mangroves is a doorway to catch glimpses of migratory birds, rare animals, mammals and vibrant marine life.

Private Adventures

Private kayaking adventures can often be organised by the resort, hotel or tour company by contacting a help desk. A tailored tour to glide your way into kayaking is perhaps the best method to explore the waters at your own pace. All private kayaking adventures will be guided by a professional who will allow tourists to move at a comfortable pace and offer advice on adventure goals and interests based on one’s experience level.

Sir Bani Yas Island Kayaking

Sign up for some nature-based sightseeing in Sir Bani Yas Island as you kayak your way to aquatic pleasure. The waterways amid the thriving mangroves of Sir Bani Yas Island reconnect with the sea, offering breathtaking sights of rare creatures, and migratory birds, as well as a sneak, peek into the marine life along the way.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The routes, packages and tours that offer kayaking experiences to tourists are many. Louvre Abu Dhabi is not only a museum that represents the contemporary Arab world but also a hub of excitement for its visitors. The museum offers guests an opportunity to go kayaking around the museum in the stillness of the Arabian Sea. This unusual tour offers a new perspective of the museum as one circle around this marvellous structure.

Set Off on a Desert Hike – A Beginner’s Tips for Survival

Explore the desert landscape for a thrilling ride in the golden dunes on a sunny day. While these terrains will offer an action-packed adventure to whoever chooses to venture out into the desert, it is also important that one is equipped and dessert-ready for a hike.

Stay Hydrated

It is no secret that your desert adventures will not involve any natural source of water. Therefore, staying hydrated is among the most important factors to adhere to, when setting off on a desert safari from your vacation lodging at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. The harsh environment in the desert gives minimal shade and is likely to be a scorching experience, therefore, carrying plenty of replenishing juices, water and snacks to munch on will help keep you hydrated and energised to explore miles and miles into the desert.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Choose Off Times

Whether you are setting off on a desert safari or a hike, the rule of thumb is to avoid peak hours. Summer heat in the deserts usually climbs up to three digits and will not treat one kindly. Therefore, expert hikers choose their timings wisely. The ideal times for a hike in the desert would be early morning or late afternoon when there is shade and less heat.

Protection is Key

A desert’s biggest threat to a hiker is the sun. Therefore, the right items of clothing and sun protection should be chosen to survive the heat. Be sure to include sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and loose-fitting synthetic clothes to keep you protected from the scorching sun. It is advisable that sunscreen be applied every 1-2 hours in order to avoid sunburns and poisoning.

Be on the Lookout

A desert is not simply an empty land of grains but also a home for some of the most poisonous creatures known to man. Therefore, desert hikers are often warned to be on the lookout for rattlesnakes, scorpions, poisonous lizards and tarantulas who can camouflage themselves in the desert dunes. Therefore, do a thorough check of your sleeping bag before use and avoid sticking your hand in any wet or cold places.

Solo Traveling in Ao Nang, Krabi – Enjoy the Solitude!

Located in Southern Thailand in Krabi Province, Ao Nang is a small town filled with adventures for a solo traveller. The vibe is amazing, and the people are always welcoming. Here are some tips to make your journey of solitude easier.

Where to Stay

Solo travellers are more than welcome on the island, and there are plenty of Ao Nang beach hotels that will happily accommodate you. Try resorts like Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort where you can find good deals for solo travelling, while you indulge in freedom and relaxation.

What to Eat

You can try all the Thai food and a few local fusion dishes during your stay in Ao Nang. Most restaurants will look simple and humble; however, the taste of the food will blow your mind! The authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients and island spices will keep you craving for more.

What to Visit

You can try visiting a few Buddhist temples for a relaxing meditation experience to cleanse your mind. Kayaking is another way to enjoy the beauty of nature on a serene ride. A walk down the beach or taking a fishing boat with the locals on a sailing adventure.

What to Keep in Mind

You will be safe and treated with the best hospitality though be mindful to be respectful of the locals, the Thai Royal Family and Buddhism as well as other religions. Rudeness will be strongly frowned upon or even get you in trouble legally in some cases, so be on your best behaviour!

Holidaying in Pattaya – Thailand’s Most Coveted City!

Pattaya is an all-inclusive city nestled on Thailand’s eastern gulf. This vibrant destination is home to a host of sandy beaches, stylish hotels and resorts, night markets, clubs, theme parks and religious sites giving you a slice of fun, luxury, comfort and relaxation. Read on to find out about some of the most coveted attractions of this heavenly city.

Explore the beautiful Koh Lan

Koh Lan is a beautiful island nestled 7km away from Pattaya. There are ample boats to reach this stunning island from Pattaya at different intervals of the day. Even though the island is quite small, there are at least 6 different beaches, each one boasting its own charm and aura.

Terry.lives.in.tokyo, OCT2010VN 246, CC BY-SA 3.0

Take a trip to Khao Chee Chan Buddha Mountain

Khao Chee Chan also known as Buddha Mountain is a popular tourist site located in Chon Buri Province. Famous for its enormous sculptural image of Lord Buddha, this landmark site is visited by tourists across the border each day. The place is open from 8 am to 6 pm every day and make sure that you are dressed appropriately before paying a visit.

Immerse in the nightlife at Walking Street

There is no better place to relish the shimmering city lights and go wild to the tunes of music than at Pattaya Walking street. This 500m long street welcomes no vehicles after 6 pm making it the perfect place for a memorable time. Teeming with nightclubs, beer clubs, restaurants and go-go bars, the night lives on till morning in these lively streets. If you are spending your staycation at one of the most stylish Pattaya resorts the likes of Avani Pattaya Resort, you can simply walk into these buzzing streets whilst enjoying the glimmering neon lights and singing to the tunes of good music.

Enjoy a blissful day in the water parks

No trip to Pattaya is complete without a little bit of adventure and fun at the city’s many water parks. These waterparks are brimming with everything from water slides, swimming pools and pool bars, to obstacle courses and children’s playgrounds. These water parks including Ramayana Waterpark, Splashdown water park and Pattaya waterpark are the places to be if you want to share some fun frolics with your friends or family.

The Best Places to Visit in Doha

A destination with plenty to discover, Doha, the capital of Qatar, will not disappoint intrepid travellers and here are some of the key places to explore and experience.

Souq Waqif

Amongst the most famous attractions in Doha, the historical Souq Waqif is a sprawling traditional marketplace where one can soak up local culture as well. As you wander around this site, you will come across everything from souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing and spices to gold, art and falcons! When hunger strikes, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes here too.

Al Wakra

A seaside locale, Al Wakra is not only a great place to visit but also stay at for those looking to enjoy luxurious comforts and holistic healing at a spa in Doha, Qatar. Not to be missed is Souq Al Wakra a popular coastal marketplace located next to Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli; also nearby is an idyllic public family beach with shallow waters and playgrounds ideal for kids.

Doha Corniche

A waterfront promenade that runs along Doha Bay for around 7 km, the Doha Corniche is another must-visit place of interest. A well-known spot for both relaxation and recreation, it is popular with joggers and skaters too; there are parks and play areas for kids here, while you can also head to the stunning Museum of Islamic Art and take a dhow cruise as well.

Katara Cultural Village

Amongst the best things to do in Doha is to visit the Katara Cultural Village which offers more insights into local culture. Noteworthy highlights include the Katara Mosque, Gold Mosque, Al Thuraya Planetarium, and a Greek-style amphitheater, while there are various art galleries and eateries too. Here, you will also find Katara Beach with lots of water sports on offer.

Everything you need to know about snorkelling in the Maldives

If you are an adventurer travelling to the Maldives all ready and set to explore what lies beneath these waters, a brief guide might just help you out! Here are a few things to know before your snorkelling trip to the Maldives.

When to Snorkel in the Maldives

The best thing about snorkelling or scuba diving in Maldives is that the weather is wonderful all year long. However, there are a few months where the water is clearer than it is the rest of the year. January through April is the best time for your underwater adventure.

Best Snorkelling Environments

Most resorts in Maldives, the likes of Reethi Faru Resort have great snorkelling opportunities. This is either because of the house reef located close to the island or the lagoon and house reef within the accessible range surrounding the island.

What to Expect

There is just so much to see when it comes to the underwater kingdom. Colourful corals, black-tipped reef sharks, morays and different kinds of turtles too. So, be prepared to uncover a true treasure of nature.

Other tips for snorkelling in the Maldives

Always be vigilant about the weather and make sure it’s a clear sunny day before your set out to the water. Bringing your own gear would be best, however, some resorts also provide snorkel equipment on rent. Yet another important thing to keep in mind would be to use plenty of sunscreen and make sure that your product is eco-friendly.

An Unforgettable Visit to Mount Huashan

Be you looking for daring adventures or hiking escapades, Mount Huashan in China is not to be missed and here’s more on what to expect.

Planning Your Visit

Mount Huashan is in the Shaanxi Province around 120 km from Xian; accommodation can be easily found here including at coliving properties like lyf Dayanta Xi’an which make an ideal base. For transport, consider the 30-40-minute high-speed train from Xian North Railway Station to Huashan North Railway Station, only around 5 km from the mountain.

What to Expect

Rising to a height of approximately 2,154 metres, Mount Huashan is considered one of China’s famed “Five Mountains”. It has five peaks (North, South, East, West, Middle), each with something different to offer; those exploring this enchanting site will come across amazing panoramas, ancient Taoist temples and some seemingly death-defying paths to traverse!

Changkong Plank Trail

Billed as the most dangerous hiking trail in the world, the Huashan Plank Walk will test even the hardiest of adrenaline junkies. It features an old plank trail along the cliff face of the South Peak; some sections are a mere 30 cm and there are no handrails and a sheer drop beneath; those daring to try this trail can breathe a little easier knowing there’s a safety harness in case you lose your footing!

Other Attractions

Those not quite so keen to “walk the plank”, can take in some of the many other attractions here. These include Yuquan Temple which is a sacred Taoist site, the Thousand Feet Zhuang Path with its narrow steps cut into the mountain and Black Dragon Ridge; also, of note is the Chess Playing Pavilion set amidst a “sea” of mists and clouds.

Hiking Adventures

This mountain is the perfect place for those looking to go hiking in China; the best thing is, one can explore trails on each of the five peaks. The North Peak is the gateway to the other peaks and home to sites like the Golden Lock Pass; you can also ascend the South Peak, which is the highest of the five, while the West and East peaks are known for their stunning sunsets and sunrises respectively.

Flight of the Gibbon

There is nothing quite like the feeling of zooming across the treetops of a vast forest. The rush and thrill are what most people sign up for to spice up their vacation!

The Flight of the Gibbon

This landmark attracted was established back in 2007 in the hopes of bringing to the people a new form of entertainment. If you are looking for an apartment for rent in Sriracha such as the Somerset Harbourview Sri Racha, be sure to spend some time trying out the zipline as well!

Safety

This zipline is extremely safe and is built using the best quality equipment from Europe and has been tested to meet all international regulations.

History of Flight of the Gibbon

This brand was the first zipline tour operator in Thailand and home to the longest zipline in Asia.

Locations

People who are in Thailand and are hoping to experience the zipline for themselves can now visit the Chonburi and Mae Kham locations.

Exploring the Shangqing Ancient Trail

More than 1,000 years old, the Shangqing Ancient Trail with its bamboo forest and pristine natural beauty is popular for hiking excursions from Shanghai.If you love nature and hiking, then add the Shangqing Ancient Trail to your itinerary the next time you are in Shanghai and here’s more on what you need to know.

Image credit- Unsplash,Marek Piwnicki,CC0

Planning Your Trip

This ancient trail is in the Zhejiang Province around 200 km from Shanghai, around a 2.5 to 3-hour drive away. For those staying in the Keqiao District of Shaoxing, serviced apartments here including those on offer at Citadines Keqiao Shaoxing make an ideal base in the city. Since getting to the trail can be tricky using public transport, consider signing up with a tour group.

A Long History

Also referred to as the Huiji Ancient Caravan Trail, this ancient trail is said to go back over a thousand years! It was originally the only road that connected Shengzhou County and Shaoxing County; this area was well-developed in the Tang Dynasty period and was linked with the trade of items like tea, wood and bamboo.

The Trail Today

While no more used for trade, the Shangqing Ancient Trail today offers the ideal hiking adventure set amidst scenic natural beauty. The most well-known section is the one connecting Suosiqiao Village with Xinlian Village and it’s well preserved too; it’s around 11 km long and features stone pavements and over 1,400 stone steps.

Hiking Highlights

The chance to enjoy pristine nature is one of the allures of the Shangqing Ancient Trail; you will come across an enchanting bamboo forest which adds to the area’s charm as well as shelters originally constructed for merchants who used this trail. You will also pass a more modern reservoir and at Xinlian Village, some old houses and eateries too.