Author: auburn

Doing the Rounds

For those doing Vietnam by road, Mui Ne with its 2 mile long wide sandy beach and relaxing informality is a popular stop over on the road between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The entire beach strip is a tourist area with budget and midrange tourist venues at one end and the more expensive tourist area at the other end. Although the town is just an overnight stop for many travelers, the area around offers interesting places to visit. Ta Kou Mountain has a 161 foot reclining Buddha statue at its top, Vietnam’s longest. This is also where many people come for some of the best views of the coast. The towering white sand dunes 22 miles north east of Mui Ne is not to be missed. They are apparently best visited in the late afternoon when the sun is going down. The coastal road, to get to the white sand dunes, is a lovely ride, past villages and farms and views of fishing boats out at sea. Most visitors also visit the red dunes on the way back to town. The dunes are bigger here and gives the feeling that it is somewhere in the Middle East. Fairy Spring, a small canyon with sedimentary rock formations and Thuy Tu Temple with old whale skeletons, some more than a hundred years old, are the other sites worth visiting.

An early start will allow all the sites to be visited in one day on a motor bike and they can be reached easily although there is an absence of signage. A motor bike is the cheapest and probably the most interesting way to get around Mui Ne. Not only is the daily rate for an automatic or manual bike low but as traffic is light and the roads are straight, it is safe to ride a bike. Crowds can be avoided visiting sites this way and sometimes, depending on the time of day, sights can be totally free of other visitors. Traveling on a motorbike will also allow visitors to see and appreciate the natural beauty of a place and whether good or bad, get to know the locals. Although riders are required to have a valid Vietnamese license to ride in Vietnam many foreigners ride with or without it and with no proper knowledge of traffic laws. Helmets for rider and passenger are a must. The recommended way to rent bikes is through the accommodation to avoid being taken in by scammers.

Take a break at Anantara Mui Ne resort & spa to enjoy a pristine seaside location and the southern coast of Vietnam. This prominent resort in Mui Ne not only offers guests a collection of spacious, beautifully appointed guestrooms, suites and villas but facilities and services that definitely go a long way to making a holiday here unforgettable. Stay at this Vietnam hotel to taste excellent Vietnamese and international culinary offerings, indulge in relaxing spa treatments, to try out water sports options or to simply enjoy the wonderful natural environment.

 

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+

Canyoning Tours in Bali

Bali is an interesting island that is a province of Indonesia and is also a very fascinating place to visit. Bali is best known for its temples and scared places of worship. It is a land that is full of different landscapers and textures. It has rocky hills, mountains, volcanoes, beaches and so much more. So if you are looking for some adventure head on over to the island of Bali. It is also a great place for beaches, wildlife and bird watching. In fact the Bali Starling, a beautiful bird, can only be found on the island of Bali. Bali is an island that is very famous for its diving and surfing and is therefore visited by many surfers every year. With its very beautiful beaches and great waves, Bali is a definite tourist hotspot.

Apart from this you must also check out the canyoning and the tour packages that are available in Bali. If you love the outdoors and the if you have got the spirit for adventure, this is one activity that you will not want to miss out on. Canyoning is considered an extreme sport and it involves the use of various techniques and abilities. For example swimming, climbing, wading and so much more is required for you to excel at the sport or to even do it. If you consider yourself a fitness enthusiast then this will definitely sound like a welcome challenge. So give it a go and check it out for yourself.

The tour packages are versatile and can be custom made according to your preferences and your fitness level. If you can spare the time, then you could also indulge in some of the training courses and go home a canyoning expert! This can prove to be great excitement if you are traveling as a group of friends. The Bali resorts provides an exceptional stay. Try out the Uluwatu hotels range such the Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa which provides great accommodation. After trying the canyoning tours in Bali, you will never look at the place the same way again!

 

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+

Explore Asia’s Windsurfing Haven in Tropical Paradise Maldives

Tipped to be Asia’s finest water sports hub the island archipelago of Maldives is a dream come true for divers, snorkelers and jet skiers the world over. But there is another water sporting activity that is fast gaining traction in the scenic lagoons of the country and that is windsurfing. With sunny skies all year round and persistent wind conditions prevalent for most of the year the calm watered island collective is literally tailor made for windsurfing excursions. Avid windsurfers and novices alike will be pleased to find that the weather and water conditions of the island collective are perfectly geared towards the sport which uses the power of the wind to glide and propel forward on ocean waters. Blessed with its fair share of sprawling lagoons the resort islands of the country are fully equipped to aid and assist travellers engaging in their water sport of choice.

Windsurfers heading to the Maldives should reserve accommodation in a resort island with a large lagoon as those with smaller lagoons typically do not offer windsurfing facilities although most do house water sports training centers and service providers for a variety of water based sporting activities. Resorts with large lagoons not only offer windsurfing gear and a large lagoon to test one’s skills on but expert guides and instructors to aid amateurs in navigating the waves and teach essential skills to beginners.

Windsurfing season in the Maldives officially falls in the Monsoon months in the country which falls between the period from May and October although beginners can engage in windsurfing practice sessions and learn the sport throughout the year. The windsurfing season however is reserved for those who are skilled in navigating larger waves and heavy wind conditions that are typical of the wet season. The clouds turn dark casting intriguing shadows on the ocean surface that is pummeled with strong winds for most of the day during the period making it a spectacular sight to behold let alone surf in. Some of the windsurfing highlights around the Maldives include the resort islands in Dhiggu, Medhufushi, Baros, Velassaru, Rihiveli, and Meedhupparu.

Travellers in search of luxurious Maldives bungalows should look no further than Anantara Veli Maldives for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with a unique holiday experience this elegant Maldives resort pulls out all the stops when it comes to private vacations in paradise.

 

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+

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+

Flying Down the Dunes

Sand boarding and skiing has added a whole new dimension to two sports once limited to areas with snow. Once adrenaline junkies found that snow boards and skis could be used on smooth sandy surfaces with the same effect there was no stopping them. Now there are several keen followers of these sports who regularly sand board and ski where there are impressive dune formations. Towering sand dunes in the Liwa Oasis bordering the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi are popular both with sand boarders and sand skiers.

Where ever there are dunes or a considerable build up of sand there are sand boarders who want to swish down their sides and experience an adrenaline rush. Sand boarders ride across or down a dune with their feet strapped to a board although some daring and more experienced types ride without the straps. Unlike snow boarders sand boarders don’t have the advantage of being taken to the top of a dune by a lift. They generally have to clamber up the dune themselves or use an ATV or a dune buggy. Sand boarding is enjoyed by enthusiasts throughout the year in desert climates where there is plenty of sand and of course dunes. The board used for sand boarding is much harder than a snow board and it has to be waxed prior to use to make the board glide. On steeper dunes snow boards are also used.

Abu Dhabi’s sand dunes towering several hundred meters above the surrounding area are ideal for sand skiing enthusiasts. Novice sand skiers are advised to start on the smaller slopes prior to attempting the 300 meter high Liwa dunes. Other than in the cooler months the best times to both sand board and ski are the early mornings. A thick layer of sunscreen, light clothing covering most parts of the body and sun glasses is advised when taking to these sports. Additionally it is better to have basic lessons on how to stay up and fall properly and safely before attempting the dunes. Children too can try but on the lower slopes and a plastic sledge will afford them a great deal of pleasure flying down the ‘nursery slopes’.

On Sir Bani Yas Island just off the coast of Abu Dhabi in the Arabian Gulf Desert Island Resort & Spa by Anantara not only offers an extraordinary location but some of the most luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas from where guests can explore the beautiful natural environment around this Abu Dhabi resort. Food is one of the experiences here where guest get to taste a variety of local and international cuisines, the other is the amazing landscape which can be enjoyed via kayaking trips, mountain biking, trekking, on safari and on horseback. As one of Abu Dhabi beach hotels guests have access to several water sports among which are special diving and snorkeling packages.

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+

Scuba Diving in Unawatuna

A small beach resort located on the South coast of Sri Lanka, Unawatuna is a charming tourist destination. The traveller in search of villas in Galle will not have to look beyond Jetwing Kurulubedda, one of the most unique Galle resorts. Leisure travelers to the region can embark on a sightseeing journey, visiting attractions such as the Turtle Hatchery, Jungle Beach and Japanese Peach Pagoda. However there are much more exciting things to do in the region which includes snorkeling and scuba diving. There are various diving centres here with experienced instructors. The ideal period to indulge in this popular water sport is from late October to late April. After a diving excursion you can simply unwind at one of the restaurants lining the charming bay.

Fish Head Dive Site in Maldives: One of the Ten Best Dive Sites in the World

The wonders that lie beneath the calm blue surface of the ocean are both marvellous and mysterious and have piqued the innate curiousity of mankind in a quest for discovery. Whether it is swimming through an underwater wreck, marvelling at the vibrancy of the world that lies beneath or whether it is a shallow dive to exclaim in absolute wonder at the vitality and picturesque beauty of the coral reefs, the great blue sea has never ceased to amaze even the most experienced diver. Therefore, it is no surprise that scuba diving and deep diving are some of the most sought after activities by holiday makers. While Rocktail Bay in South Africa, Sulawesi in Indonesia and Cocos and Malpelo in the Eastern Pacific rank among the best diving sites in the world, the small cluster of islands nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean is determined not to be undermined in terms of its underwater brilliance. True to form, the Fish Head dive site in Maldives has proven to be one of the best dive sites in Asia that capture the essence of the marine world.

Known by the locals as Mushi Mas Mingili Thila, the Fish Head diving site is located in a protected marine area in the North Ari Atoll. The site is complete with overhanging caves, a square reef and a number of ledges. The main reason for being ranked among the best dive sites in the world is because the habits of Grey Reef Sharks can be observed at close quarters in this marine area, an advantage that is unavailable at other dive sites. Other sightings of underwater life include Napoleon Wrasse, Jacks, Tuna and White Tip Reef Sharks and the site is conducive to amateur divers as well provided the tide isn’t too strong. Therefore, ensure that you inquire from your Maldives hotel with regard to when the tide is low prior to making arrangements to visit the site.

While those staying at Maldives island resorts in the North Atoll will find it easier to access the site, tourists residing in the South Atoll at hotels such as Naladhu Maldives, need not be disheartened. Maldivian hospitality will ensure that your excursion to the Fish Head Diving Site is well co-ordinated and organised in order to ensure optimum convenience to the guests.

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+

Trekking Sri Pada (Adam’s peak)

Explore the spectacular island of Sri Lanka from up above, in an air taxi Sri Lanka has to offer. Cinnamon Air is a renowned Sri lanka air taxi service provider, making your holidays more exciting. Soaring amidst the enchanting landscape of southern Hill Country, Adam’s peak, locally known as Sri Pada, has long been sparking the imagination of many. Rooted in history and shrouded in myths, this majestic mountain is scared site for devotees of various religious faiths. Thousands of pilgrims as well as hikers and trekkers arrive here during the well known six months season. However due to the large crowd arriving here during this period, one way of avoiding this congestion is to visit during the off-season.

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+

Escape Theme Park

Travellers based at Singapore serviced apartments enjoy easy access to numerous attractions in the region. Ascott Raffles Place Singapore features some of the finest serviced apartments Singapore has to offer. Situated in inside NTUC Downtown East in Singapore, Escape Theme Park is a popular outdoor destination. The park is home to a vibrant mix of family attractions and thrill rides such as go kart tracks and a pirate ship, in addition to a walk-through haunted house, fairground style rides and Asia’s highest log flume. Among the park’s family attractions are a Ferris wheel, a family coaster, bumper boats and a central pavilion featuring funfair-style games. Visitors to this family attraction can also visit the nearby park known as Wild Wild Wet.

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+

Scuba Diving in Thailand: Enjoy the Mysteries of the Ocean

Thailand has proven to be a popular holiday destination in Asia as tourists eagerly flock to the country enticed by its vast shopping prospects, amazing sightseeing and of course, the idyllic delights of islands such as Phuket. One of the greatest attractions of such islands, one that appear to become more and more popular every year, is scuba diving for the underwater visibility is tantalisingly high around most dive sites in Thailand. As a result, scuba divers are treated to picturesque sightings of corals, an abundance of sea life and even underwater shipwrecks.

While over two hundred thousand tourists visiting Thailand opt to dive, scuba diving is progressing rapidly towards becoming a multi-million dollar industry. With more tourists visiting the country annually, the Thai administration has taken steps to improve facilities and open up better diving sites as well. One of the best locations in and around Thailand for this activity include the well known island of Phuket whose abundance of healthy coral fosters a hospitable environment for a thriving underwater world. For those visiting Phuket, Racha Yai, Ter Bay, Racha Noi and Koh Doc Mai are iconic locations for divers but tourists should take care to inquire prior to doing so in order to avoid strong currents.

The Koh Phi Phi Island is another location which is home to several dive sites. Found between Phuket and Krabi, this island’s natural beauty above sea level is deeply complemented by its splendour beneath its shores. Diving sites along the beaches of Ao Nang and Railay as well as Chalong Bay are ideal for those staying at Krabi resorts and these sites are conducive for scuba divers as well as those who wish to go snorkelling. Furthermore, scuba divers will also find the King Cruiser wreck an exciting underwater excursion for it is known for the sea anemones that attract schools of fish making it a wonderfully colourful site.

Hence, it is abundantly clear that it does not matter which Trang resort you may opt to stay at for, in terms of diving, for the Thai coastal belt is dotted with amazing dive sites. However, if you wish to experience true luxury as well as amazing diving experiences on your visit to Siam, ensure that you check in at Anantara Si Kao Thailand and allow its lavish comfort to soothe your soul.

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+