Author: auburn

Uncover a Birding Paradise in Emerald Isle Sri Lanka

Regarded as one of the best holiday destinations in Asia for bird watching enthusiasts the tropical wonderland known as Sri Lanka offers birders a wealth of opportunities to witness winged beauties in their natural habitat. Home to more than 400 bird species, a whopping 56 varieties of which are indigenous to the island, Sri Lanka is also home to 26 endemic species that inhabit the country’s lush environs. Blessed with sunny skies and warm weather all year round the country is a holiday home for many migratory bird species as well. Easy to navigate bird watching opportunities in the country are mainly concentrated around wildlife sanctuaries that are littered with winged beauties hailing from native lands and foreign countries alike.

The Udawatta Kele Bird Sanctuary is one of the county’s most popular birding hubs. Visitors can hope to observe stunners the likes of Black Capped Bulbuls, Layard’s Parakeets, Chestnut-Headed Bee Eaters and Sri Lankan Hanging Parrots here along with Emerald Doves, Tickells’s Blue Fly Catchers and three types of Kingfishers. The Kithulgala Forest Reserve on the other hand is home to Ceylon Blue Magpies, Frog Mouths, Red faced Malkohas, and Oriental Dwarf Kingfishers while the Kandalama Sanctuary’s 55 acre jungles are home to 1/3 of the birdlife in the country which comes to around 145 bird varieties.

The Knuckles mountain range is spread out across 12 miles and is home to more than 120 species including Dusky-Blue Flycatchers, Yellow-Eared Bulbuls, Yellow-Fronted Barbets, Ceylon Lorikeets, and Ceylon Grackles. Aquatic birds are visible from November to March in the Kalmateiya Bird Sanctuary while the Bodhihingala’s rain forests are teeming with nearly 150 species including the indigenous Legge’s Flowerpeckers, Spot-winged Thrushes, Sri Lanka Spurfowls as well as endangered birds such as the Green-billed Coucal. Indian Blue Robins and Large Cuckooshrikes are also common here while the Sinharaja Forest Reserve in the country’s Sabaragamuwa District boasts lush landscapes littered with Jungle Fowls, Ceylon Bay Owls, Blue Magpies, Crimson Backed Woodpeckers, and Black-crested Bulbuls. White Headed Starlings, Rufous Babblers, and Scimitar Babblers are also found in the nature reserve in addition to Crested Honey Buzzards, Ceylon Green Pigeons, and Hawk Eagles.

Travellers on the lookout for the best Sri Lanka Tours this year should consult Elegant Travels before making reservations. To make your travel Sri Lanka truly memorable, choose from this reputed name in the hospitality industry pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable vacations in the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

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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Game Fishing in Maldives

The renowned tourist destination of Maldives offers numerous things for travellers to enjoy. Choose from villas in Maldives such as Adaaran Prestige Water Villas. Make the most of your vacation unwinding at one of these Maldives water villas. Beside the world famous water sports the islands have to offer, there is the option of game fishing. Try big game fishing which depends of the location and weather condition. This activity lets you catch fishes such as swordfish, wahoo, yellowfish tuna, barracuda, marlin and sailfish. You can hire modern fishing equipments and a speedboat from your resort and set out on the exciting excursion.

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+

Al ain Oasis

Al Ain also referred to as the Green city is the second biggest city in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi. With so much to see in this delightful city Al Ain Oasis is undoubtedly one of the must see spots. It is the largest oasis in the country. This marvelous Al Ain oasis is declared as a world heritage site by the UNESCO.

The oasis in Al ain is filled with palm plantations. Palms play a main socio economic role in UAE. This shady pathway under the trees is truly heavenly in this city of noise and heat. A visit to this oasis will be definitely a break from the bustling city.
The other main thing that makes the Al ain Oasis special is its underground irrigation system known as the “falaj” which brings water to farms. The falaj irrigation system dates many years and Al ain is not the only country that uses this ancient system.

Nearly 3000 acres large oasis protects and contains more than 100 different varieties of date palm. While you take a relaxing stroll in the oasis, listen to the birds that sing and of course the crackle of the palm fronds. It will not only sooth the mind but the body as well.

Al ain has seven oases in which the biggest one is the Al ain Oasis. A visit to the Oasis will be really worth it as it is an amazing place out of the usual barren life of the desert. And of course do not forget to taste some of the delicious mouthwatering date palms while you leisurely walk in Al ain oasis.

When it comes to accommodation Abu Dhabi, choices are ample and vibrant. From super luxurious hotels to cheap yet elegant resorts, you will be spoilt for choice. For a comfortable stay with all the amenities you wish, choose the Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi. It is conveniently located, with only a 15 minutes drive from the Abu Dhabi International Airport. This gorgeous hotel in Abu Dhabi will surely make your vacation in UAE even more special.

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+

New Zealand Fishing Safaris

New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes rich in natural beauty can be explored by land, air and water. Making reservations at a reputed Auckland hotel is essential if you are to make the most of your vacation and Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City is an exceptional hotel Auckland CBD has to offer. Fancy taking a fishing safari in a modern, fast fishing boat? Then options are plenty. You can opt for a private charter for a fun family get-together or join a group trip. The safari can be customized to suit your requirements which may include barbecue hireage, swimming, sightseeing tours, taking in spectacular views of dawn and dusk across the Gulf and a Waiheke Island stopover.

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+

Indoor Skydiving In Abu Dhabi

There are few activities that are as exhilarating as skydiving. Jumping off a plane with nothing but a parachute to avert certain disaster is sure to get the adrenaline pumping and the heart racing. Although it can be quite exciting and plenty of fun, it is not an activity for the faint of heart. That is, before indoor skydiving became a thing. Indoor skydiving is done using a vertical wind tunnel. The air flow in such tunnels can reach speeds of over 190 kilometres per hour, more than enough to keep a human aloft.

Not only can it replicate the skydiving experience for those who do not fancy jumping out of a moving plane, it can also provide valuable experience for those considering doing the real thing. In Abu Dhabi one can try out indoor skydiving at the Abu Dhabi Country Club situated along Al Saada Street. Although the club’s Spacewalk Abu Dhabi has been going on only for a few years, it is already a major attraction.

A flight can last anywhere between two to ten minutes, with first timers allowed to go on for only a minute. The air in the tunnel is siphoned from outside and is not cooled in anyway. Therefore, riders should be prepared to face some pretty strong, fairly warm winds. Indoor skydiving is not a passive activity and the energy exerted in resisting the air flow can help tone muscles. This is a fun activity for people of all fitness levels and ages- children should at least be three years old.

Travellers with a love of the outdoors and outdoor activities will definitely enjoy visiting Abu Dhabi. The emirate has plenty of activities to satisfy the outdoorsy types. Those who want to spend their vacation trying out various sports should stay at a place like the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel. It is one of the best resorts Abu Dhabi and is situated inside the Arabian Wildlife Park. In addition to amazing Abu Dhabi villas the resort also has facilities for archery, mountain biking, kayaking and snorkelling. If one wants an exciting vacation filled with adventure, there is no better place to be.

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+

Stones You Never Knew Existed

Bangkok, the most popular and developed city of Thailand, is the capital of the country and one of the most famous tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Home to over eight million citizens of Thailand, this bustling city and its unique culture are indeed rather extraordinary, thus attracting tourists from all over the globe. Bangkok’s diverse society, lively commercial street, cultural attractions, and thriving nightlife are some of its major highlights.

A rather strange, yet uniquely iconic, landmark of Bangkok is the Rare Stone Museum. Like its name suggests, this museum is dedicated to showcasing some of the most amazingly shaped and rare rocks and stones of the earth, as has been regarded as a rather intriguing experience. The museum houses a collection of over 100,000 unique stones and other artefacts, thus ensuring that you will have loads to see at the museum.

The Rare Stone Museum is located in the Pathum Thani Province and was established by Banyong Lertnimitr. The entire collection of the museum is privately owned by Lertnimitr who has acquired these unique stones and artefacts over the years. The museum was established in 1999, and ever since has been one of the most unique and fascinating museums in Bangkok. One can witness a large variety of various rocks and stones of different minerals, colours, shapes, and sizes, that are sure to leave you amazed that such stones even existed! One of the highlights of the museum is a rather interesting black rock that resembles two penguins kissing. Although the museum is predominantly dedicated to stones, one can also witness a range of other interesting artefacts such as old but stylish ashtrays, cigarette lighters, and other miniature objects considered to be of good luck in Thai culture. This museum is truly one of the most different yet spectacular landmarks of Bangkok, and therefore a visit to it is definitely warranted.

Overlooking the sparkling Chao Phraya River is the Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort and Spa, one of the most reputed 5 Star hotels in Bangkok. Boasting the high standards and traditions of the Anantara group of luxury hotels and resorts, this Bangkok resort offers tranquil accommodation in a range of plush rooms and suites. The tranquilly of this resort is further complemented by the luxury facilities provided by the resort, which include the Anantara Spa, a host of exquisite restaurants, and many wellness and leisure services.

5 Best Islands in Thailand

The exotic tourist destination of Thailand boasts a collection of enchanting islands. One unique sightseeing experience can be enjoyed by taking part in a Bangkok cruise tour. A name almost synonymous with Bangkok cruises is Anantara Cruises Thailand. One may be spoilt for choice when considering what islands of Thailand to visit. Of course the unrivalled holiday destination, Phuket island tops the list, although off its Southern coast are the pristine Coral and Raya islands, ideal for scuba divers. However ardent nature lovers cannot afford to miss visiting Ko Adang featuring various hiking trails as well as secluded white sandy beaches. The list of best Thai islands also includes Koh Phi Phi, Ko Chang and Koh Mook.

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+

Indulge in an Adventure of a Lifetime on a Wadi Bashing Safari of Abu Dhabi

Renowned as one of Abu Dhabi most engaging off-road adventures Wadi bashing is fast becoming one of the best reasons to holiday in the desert landscapes of the country. With hundreds of acres of vast desert expanses littered with sand dunes at one’s disposal there could hardly be a more conducive environment to engage in Wadi bashing safaris. Experienced tour operators offer a variety of Wadi bashing encounters that are conducted in the sandy terrains of the Liwa’s 300m sand dune stretch which is deemed a perfect location for the adrenalin pumping activity by experts.

The breathtaking sand valley of Liwa is home to dozens of sand dunes that make for a challenging desert driving experience on a 4×4. Although drivers can rent a vehicle from the city and take on the sand dunes without the aid of tour operators or guides tourist are advised not to traverse the desert landscapes alone but travel in a retinue of at least two vehicles.

Inexperienced off-road drivers or those who are looking to take up the adventure sport can take a one day crash course offered by Wadi bashing tour vendors or go for a more intensive five day course where skills on navigating the sand dunes can be acquired and honed at leisure. The off-road 4×4 vehicles used in Wadi bashing expeditions are fitted with state-of-the-art recovery gear such as winch cables, tyre gauges that automatically aerates the tyre for specific driving situations and communication devices.

Most tours explore the dunes along the Rub Al Khali or the Empty Quarter where 300m high dunes are a staple while the captivating sandy mountains of Moreeb Hill offer equally challenging Wadi bashing surfaces. Historic sites such as Fossil Rock, Camel Rock and Saddle Rock also come in to view during the trip which culminates with snacks and refreshments. Riders can also explore camel farms and camp out for the night beneath the stars if they so desire.

Travellers in search of luxury Abu Dhabi beach hotels should look no further than the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. Ideally situated in a scenic location, this elegant Abu Dhabi resort is a truly desirable option.

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 Bani Yas By Horseback

Sir Bani Yas Island is an island found roughly ten kilometres off the coast of Jebel Dhanna in Abu Dhabi. The island measures about five miles from west to east and about eleven miles from south to north, and is easily the biggest natural island in the country. The large island is home to many interesting attractions and is a delightful place to visit when holidaying in the United Arab Emirates. Although not very large in area, the island features some diverse landscapes that can be fun to explore by horseback.

Those who want to take a horseback tour of the gorgeous island should try Sir Bani Yas Stables. It is the go to place for horses, ponies and experienced riding instructors. The ponies are available for little children and there is a large paddock where kids can get pony rides. Horses are for adults with some riding experience. Those who do not know how to ride a horse need not fret as they also conduct classes here.

Since the island is home to a massive wildlife reserve (which was established in 1971) that spans nearly ninety square kilometres, one is bound to spot many birds, plants and animals during the ride. The island’s ever changing terrain will ensure that equestrians will have an interesting and memorable ride. The activity is perfect for adventure lovers and couples are sure to enjoy taking a sunset horse ride.

As a Middle Eastern country with ample resources the United Arab Emirates has excellent infrastructure and nowhere is the infrastructure better than in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The largest of the seven emirates that make up the country, it offers tourists plenty of things to do. The emirate has plenty of upscale shopping malls, top notch restaurants and a range of accommodation options.

Tourists planning on vacationing here and are looking for villas in Abu Dhabi, can try the Anantara Al Yamm. The fine spa resort Abu Dhabi is situated on Sir Bani Yas Island and is a tranquil oasis amidst the wildlife reserve. Offering guests an authentic Arab experience, it is the ideal place to stay.

MacRitchie Nature Trail

Nature lovers are in for an unforgettable treat when they visit MacRitchie Nature Trail which is surrounded by lush vegetation and lined with old rubber trees. Make a Singapore hotel reservation at a well known Singapore city centre hotel such as Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore to enjoy easy access to a plethora of attractions including the MacRitchie Nature Trail itself. Dating back to 1867 this reservoir is complete with walking trails and boardwalks stretching through the forest. MacRitchie’s two highest points; Bukit Kalang and Bukit Peirce are connected by an aerial free standing suspension bridge. What makes MacRitchie Nature Trail ideal for a leisurely stroll is not only its tranquil natural surroundings but also its close proximity to places of interest such as Singapore Island Country Club.

 

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+