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Mekong River Cruise experience

In the earlier days, civilisations were born around massive rivers, which also assisted in establishing relevant cultures. Mekong River is no exception. One can learn about the fascinating cultural aspects of an ancient civilisation when embarking on a luxury Mekong River cruise.

History of Mekong River

The earliest settlement date back to 2100 BC, the Khmer culture of Funan. Khmer empire Angkor was the last greatest Indianised state in the area. Mekong River is regarded as the cornerstone of the economic growth and prosperity of South East Asia.

Cruising Area

The spectacular Mekong Delta is spread over an area of approximately 15,000 square miles, which boasts of lush green paddy fields, fruit orchards, fish farms, and thriving ecosystems. Mekong Delta contributes to more than half of Vietnam’s rice production; hence, it’s also called the “rice bowl” of the country.

Cruising Experience

A Mekong River cruise would let travellers come across new cultures, thus being able to perceive life from a different perspective. From ancient temples and serene villages to incredible scenery and wildlife along the way, a cruise along this mighty river will offer an unparalleled experience.

Overnight Mekong Cruises

One can embark on a unique and scintillating night-time adventure on the Mekong River with cruise companies such as Mekong Kingdoms. A night-time cruise along this river would reveal a land of spellbinding beauty.

Cultural Sites in Ella

Walking into Ella itself feels like walking into magical heaven because of everything it has got. The climate, attractions, people, and the happy vibes it brings are all mind-blowing.

Little Adam’s Peak

Little Adam’s Peak- one of the main attractions in the area as per what online sources such as Travel to Ella suggest. It’s a very short trek to reach the peak and once you get to the top, you are sure to be rewarded with amazing views.

Ella Rock

One of the favourite things to do in Ella is to enjoy a hike to Ella Rock. The hike is not at all difficult, but to avoid the sun, it’s always better if you can arrange this hike in the morning.

Ravana Falls

A place that has many links to the ever-famous Ramayana story, Ravana Falls is a three-layered waterfall in Ella. If you are okay with another rock climb, you may hike up to the 3rd layer and enjoy its beauty from there.

Nine Arches Bridge

A must-visit attraction in Ella, the Nine Arches Bridge has been built entirely with bricks, and the architectural and engineering skills that have been used to construct this bride are still adored.

Why you should travel around Sri Lanka?

There is more than one specific reason to visit this amazing island nation – Sri Lanka – during one of your holidays coming up. Here are just some of the best.

The wildlife

Sri Lanka is a wildlife hotspot that’s popular among everyone in the world. There are 26 National Parks and 2 Marine Parks in this amazing destination, where you can see some rare species that you’ve never seen before.

The culture

Culture is an integral part of the lives of Sri Lankans. They do have a proud heritage that’s more than 2500 years old and, in cities such as Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Galle, where you can explore the best of their cultural pride.

Modern Charm

Sri Lanka is full of ancient and colonial charms. It doesn’t lack modernity either. Staying at one of the hotels near Colombo Airport the likes of Pegasus Reef will expose you to all the charms that Colombo and its suburbs have.

Local dishes

Needless to say, this country is rich in its exotic spices. Be it a curry or a salad that they prepare, it’s sure to have a distinctive taste, and you’ll never find this taste anywhere else in the world.

Minneriya National Park

If you are a nature lover and are hoping to catch some elephants on your trip to Sri Lanka, then one of the best places to visit would be the Minneriya National Park.

How to get to Minneriya National Park

Located in the North Central part of Sri Lanka the Minneriya National Park has been pronounced an untamed animal haven since 1938. It is about 180km from Colombo and takes about 5 hours if you are driving.

shankar s. from Dubai, united arab emirates, Minneriya National Park (7568194474), CC BY 2.0

Best time to visit

The best time to visit would be from May to October as this is the time that you will be able to see herds of Asian Elephants gathering and making their way towards the water. The dry season beckons these gentle giants out into the open and the best times to start your jeep and go on the safari would the early morning hours from 5am – 8am.

What you can see

The safari ride in the park will have you seeing many animal species and birds. But the park is most famous for the herds of Asian elephants that gather at the watering hole during the hot seasons in Sri Lanka. Other animals you may come across on your safari are the spotted deer, sambar, and the purple-faced langur monkeys.

Where you can stay

If you are wondering where to stay during your trip, there are many hotels and resorts in the area that will put you up. You can even consider staying at a luxury hotel in Sigiriya Dambulla such as the Heritance Kandalama which is a mere 1 hour away from the National Park.

A Boat Ride in Hamilton Canal

The Hamilton Canal – commonly referred to as the Dutch Canal – connect Colombo with Puttalam. A boat ride along it will let you see some of the best sights in the region and it can be an enthralling experience overall.

The Canal’s History

The Hamilton Canal is said to have been constructed during colonial times – specifically when the Dutch were ruling Sri Lanka’s maritime provinces. Named after then governor, Gavin Hamilton, the canal was an important supply route for the Europeans.

Sahan177, Sunsets at negombo lagoon, CC BY-SA 4.0

Natural Sights

Tourists and travellers can take a tour along the canal either via bicycle or by boat. Taking the boat is preferable as you’ll be able to travel a lot further and see a myriad of stunning natural sights. These include a quaint lagoon that leads to the sea as well as the verdant expanses of the Muthurajawela Marsh.

Keep an Eye on the Wildlife

You might be perusing the hotel offers Sri Lanka has available – such as the ones offered by Heritance Negombo – in order to find a tour that will let you see the island’s wildlife. This isn’t always necessary, however, as you can plenty of endemic species via a boat ride along the canal alone. As you reach the marshlands, keep your eyes peeled for mugger crocodiles, rock pythons and a host of water birds.

The Cityscape

Nature and the wildlife aren’t the only things you’ll be saying as you cruise along the canals. You’ll also be witnessing the inner workings of Colombo and Puttalam. From tireless vendors promoting their stock to labourers taking a break and sipping some beer – it’s a wonderful way to experience the local culture.

Into Sri Lanka’s Hill country

Touring the hill country of Sri Lanka and wondering what to do first? Here is a list of must-do activities while in the central highlands of the island.

Visit Tea Plantations

Known as the 3rd largest tea exporter in the world, the majority of Sri Lanka’s tea is produced in the hill country of the island. Some hotels in Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka such as the famous Heritance Tea Factory are even built on these tea plantations. Ensure you visit one of them to find out the process of how tea is produced and packaged for export. Also, enjoy a hot cuppa while here.

Climb the Adam’s Peak

Sacred to all those in Sri Lanka, the Adam’s Peak climb is one that must be done at least once in your lifetime. Although a little tiresome, once at the top you will definitely not regret it. Begin your climb at night and witness one of the most magical sunrises in Asia once you reach the summit. The hike is approximately 3.5 hours to the top.

Hike the Knuckles Mountain Range

For those who love a bit of adventure in the wild, then hiking the Knuckles mountain range in the hill country of Sri Lanka is well worth it. The rugged mountain range is a land of mystical appeals and offers breath-taking views to those who seek it. A half-day trek is about 8km and a full day trek is around 18km.

Go, Waterfall Hopping

The hill country of Sri Lanka is no short of waterfalls. In fact, it is here that you will come across some of the most gorgeous waterfalls on the island. With over 100 waterfalls to choose from in the central highlands, the top three worth mentioning are Bambarakanda Falls (the highest falls in Sri Lanka), Ravana Falls, and Diyaluma Falls.

Walk along Jalan Tan Hiok Nee

Jalan Tan Hiok Nee is named after a Chinese cloth peddler who became an influential figure and grew quite wealthy later in life. It is home to many old and new businesses that breathes life into the street. Located nearby to many a Johor hotel the likes of Berjaya Waterfront Hotel, it is more than just a heritage site.

Becoming a Heritage Site

Previously an old-fashioned but picturesque street, it was transformed into a historic venue by the Malaysian government in 2009.

Visit Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum

Paying a small entrance fee, the Chinese Heritage Museum takes you through the journey of the Chinese settlement in Johor Bahru. Using audio guides that contain fascinating stories, you can tour the museum at your own pace.

Chongkian, Johor Bahru Chinese Heritage Museum, CC BY-SA 4.0

Enjoy Delicious Coffee at Art52 Gallery

Open from 9 O’ clock onwards throughout the week, Art52 Gallery is truly a gem at the Jalan Tan Hiok Nee. Preserving the historic charm of the old building, the owner has succeeded in converting the space into a simple, low-profile café that exudes genuineness.

Tantalize Your Taste Buds

Walking along the street, one would come across several eateries that offer a wide variety of food. The street is such a great place to become acquainted with the scrumptiousness of the traditional cuisine.

Kayaking in Nga Bay

When amazing rock formations, islets, and caves are combined with the surrounding waters, it is definitely a pleasing sight to see. If you kayak in Phang Nga Bay, this sight is surely yours to explore!

Location

This bay is located between Phuket and the Malay Peninsula. This area is also home to many Thailand luxury villas for sale such as the famous Avadina Hills by Anantara promising a piece of heaven in terms of tourism and investors who are interested in real estate in this area.

Phang-nga_Bay, — Tony Ng, Phang-nga Bay, leading to James Bond Island – panoramio, CC BY-SA 3.0

Getting to the Bay

Just as the name suggests, it’s a Bay and the only way to get to it is via water. Most resorts will offer this service and so you can get to the bay first by a boat.

Your sea-kayaking experience

You can enjoy the kayaking experience in the day time or even in the night. But the most common is the day trip. While you kayak peacefully, do not forget to explore the beautiful sceneries all around you. You’ll come across tunnels, caves, and many other special places and they’ll bring you an exciting feeling.

Useful tips

The caves can sometimes be very dark and you should be prepared to experience this on your journey. If you are enjoying this experience during the summer, make sure you take more water bottles with you so you can stay hydrated.

Interesting Facts about Botswana

Botswana is one of the most beautiful and wild countries found in Africa – and that really is saying something. It is home to some of the continent’s most majestic wildlife as well as untamed expanses like the Kalahari Desert and Okavango Delta. So, here’s a few facts you might not have known about this hidden gem of a travel destination.

The Safari Capital

Botswana is renowned for its great safari adventures, but it truly is astounding just how many wildlife reserves the country has. For example, if you’re staying at one of the Botswana resorts found in the capital city of Gaborone – say for instance the Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino – you’re just a 20-minute drive away from a game reserve!

The Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is undoubtedly Botswana’s biggest attraction. Surrounded by the dry expanses of the Kalahari Desert, the Delta is a beacon for a myriad of wildlife who seek hydration – these include animals like hippos, lions, and cape buffalo.

The Resident Elephants

Botswana actually has the largest population of African elephants on the continent! Massive herds are known to roam national parks like Chobe and nomadic herds are known to constantly traverse the Kalahari.

A Wild Land

Botswana is roughly the size of France in terms of area. However, it only has 2 million people living in it compared to France’s 66 million. The low number of humans is one of the chief reasons that wildlife tends to thrive in the country, there’s plenty of wilderness for them to call home.

Snorkelling in Maldives

There’s plenty of reason to go snorkelling in the Maldives. Here the water is crystal clear and calm and harbours an incredible variety of marine life. With over 2000 reefs scattered across its waters; these islands are undoubtedly a snorkellers paradise.

When to Visit

Now, before you grab your snorkelling kit and fly out to the Maldives in a hurry, keep in mind that certain times are better for snorkelling than others. The Maldives may be a tropical island but it experiences heavy storms during the monsoon season, this makes the waters a little rough and the animals more skittish. So, if it is an option, try to visit between January and April when the weather tends to be immaculate.

Places to Stay

The Maldives is well known for its luxurious accommodation options. A Maldives beach resort such as the Faarafushi Maldives can be a great option if you want to properly relax and unwind between bouts of snorkelling. That being said, the islands have resorts for all kinds of budgets, so be sure to browse through and pick something that works for you.

Where to Snorkel

One of the most important decisions you’ll be making is deciding on where exactly you want to snorkel in. While there’s quite the list of locations to choose from, there are three spots you can always depend on. Firstly, there’s Banana Reef which is renowned for all the different types of reef fish that call it home. Then there’s Manta Point, named as such because of its resident manta ray populations. Finally, there’s HP Reef which is known for its diverse coral varieties and reef shark population.

A Few Tips

If this is the first time you’re going snorkelling in the Maldives, the following tips may prove invaluable. Most importantly, if you’re renting gear, only do so from reputed suppliers. Remember to have a trained guide accompany you at all times in the water. Finally, when you’re underwater please refrain from touching anything without the go-ahead from your guide.