Caliope Sage | The Adventure Travel Site

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.

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Bintan Indonesia

Hidden among lush green foliage, and surrounded by idyllic beachscapes, Bintan Island is a paradisiacal escape for travelling enthusiasts from all walks of life. As a solo traveller, there are many things to know and prepare for before embarking on a solitary journey.

Image credit-Pixabay,riyan_hidayart ,CC0

Transportation

Once you arrive at the main town of Bintan, you can board a ferry that is coming all the way from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. From there, you can travel to Pekanbaru by boat and get down at a certain point between the islands Sumatra and Bintan. From that point onwards, you can ride a speed boat, which is also known as a water bus to reach your destination, that is, Bintan Island.

Accommodation

Hostels are hard to come by unless you’re in a big city. Various places offer accommodation, and after thorough research, one can find the best Bintan resort package. It is an excellent option to take lodgings closer to the island, in properties such as Bintan Lagoon Resort.

Clothing

Many parts of Indonesia are still traditional. Therefore, you might want to dress modestly. You don’t have to wear headscarves or long-sleeved clothing. A simple t-shirt and denim will do!

Activities

From a temple tucked into a banyan tree on the East coast to Gurun Pasir Busung, an ancient sand mining site that is quite picture-worthy, there is much to experience in this paradisiacal island. Hiring a diver cum guide upon the arrival of the island will make things easier as they know just where to take you.

Significant historical attractions in Kandy

Needless to say, Kandy is a city in Sri Lanka that is of great cultural value. It has many places of historical significance too, and here are just a few of them.

Sri Dalada Maligawa

This a highly religious place for Buddhists where the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha has been kept. In the month of July-August, hotels in Kandy Sri Lanka get crowded with tourists from all over the world, as the Temple conducts its annual procession ‘Dalada Perahera’.

Sri Dalada International Buddhist Museum

When you go to the Dalada Maligawa from your place of accommodation such as Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, do not also forget to visit its museum located just behind the main shrine. You can see a number of exhibits such as letters, diary entries, and old gifts that the temple has received.

Knuckles Mountain Range

Knuckles Mountain Range is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its beautiful landscapes and also for the scientific importance it holds. You may engage in mountain biking, hiking, or caving around this great place.

British Garrison Cemetery

This is one of the few places in Kandy with a colonial touch. It is indeed a great experience to move around the 163 graves it has and to read the details that the gravestones say with pride.

Crazy Extreme Adventures

A tropical holiday in Thailand doesn’t always have to be about lounging on the beach, working on your tan, especially if you are the kind of person that wants to experience the open spaces and blue seas of Thailand with your whole being. Here are some adrenaline-inducing water sports and adventures you can do to go beyond your comfort zone.

1. White Water Rafting

Head further inland from the beach and try a little white-water rafting. Some rapids range on all levels in Pai, Chiang Mai and Chumpon to name a few.

2. Scuba Diving with Whale Sharks

If you are planning to try out some diving when you check into a hotel in Khon Kaen, consider signing up for scuba diving with whale sharks. The best time is during the season of February to April. If your preferred choice of hotel is one like Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre, you can ask them to book ahead for you.

3. Kiteboarding

Kiteboarding requires a bit of navigation in your part and something you should be careful of if you’re a first timer. But it’s never too late to try.

4. Rock Climbing

If you want something to get the blood pumping that doesn’t involve you getting wet, try a little rock-climbing in the Krabi province.

5. Wakeboarding

There are wake parks all over Thailand thanks to wakeboarding’s recent popularity so why not get in on the rush?

Desert driving tips in Qatar

Everyone loves a good old drive at some point, especially when you need a brief getaway from the monotony of your daily life. Be it a drive around the city or in the mountains, just go for it if it makes you feel any better. A drive in the desert too can be quite enjoyable as long as you know just what to do. Here are a few tips.

Drinkable liquid

Since the desert is dry and humid, you are bound to get dehydrated. Therefore, remember to take along plenty of water along with a few energy drinks and fresh juices to keep you at your optimum.

Fuel reserves

Being stuck in the middle of the desert with nothing but seas of sand in sight could be quite scary and less enjoyable than the experience was meant to be. So, it is important that you keep the gas tank full and have some spare as well.

Sandstorms

These storms are to be expected when driving in the desert, it can be inconvenient but, all you can do is be prepared! The safest thing to do if you do encounter one is to stay put inside your vehicle with the seatbelt on.

Tire checks

Before you head out, check your tires thoroughly and make sure they are in tip-top condition before heading into the desert. It would help to have a spare wheel as well if possible.

Other information

If you are on holiday at best hotels in Qatar and not sure how to get about planning a desert road trip, your local hotel such as Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar by Tivoli can always help you out. Do not hesitate to inquire about any desert activities they may have for you to enjoy.

Top beaches in Praslin

A luxurious beach getaway is all that you need when boredom or life stress strikes. Either alone by yourself or with your better half, just explore these beaches you find in Praslin and the relaxation you’ll feel is guaranteed.

Anse Lazio

This is popularly known as the best beach in Praslin Island that’s blessed with crystal clear waters and white sands. If your idea is to spend your time swimming and snorkeling, this is, of course, the ideal beach for you.

Cote d’Or

If you are spending your family vacation at a nearby resort such as Berjaya Praslin Resort, travel to this laid-back beach to simply unwind. Enjoy the beautiful sunsets with your family here, and your kids will love it too!

Anse La Blague

Praslin resort facilities will always be special for honeymooners, and so will its beaches. Among them, Anse La Blague is one of the most popular beaches among newly wedded couples, as it’s so secluded and serene.

Anse Madge

If you are looking for a silent and calm beach, Anse Madge is the beach for you. While sipping on a tropical drink, you can just lay back here and relax as much as you want.

Langkawi Bucket List

In a country renowned for its natural beauty and scenic destinations, Langkawi stands out as Malaysia’s premier beach destination. From picturesque views to enthralling escapades, this little slice of paradise has got it all! Now if you ever find yourself vacationing here, these are the four things you want to tick off your bucket list.

Photo by CEphoto, Uwe Aranas or alternatively © CEphoto, Uwe Aranas, Langkawi Malaysia mangrove-Tour-Jetty-01, CC BY-SA 3.0

Island Hopping

Island hopping is one of the most popular activities to do in Langkawi. So much so, that pretty much all major Langkawi resort hotels will include it on their itinerary list – for example, the Berjaya Langkawi Resort. Here you’ll be travelling from one tropical paradise to another, exploring white sand beaches and mystical caves along the way.

Exploring the Mangroves

The area that surrounds the Langkawi beach is full of dense mangrove forests. This is a refuge for a variety of unique plants and animals that aren’t found anywhere else in Malaysia. By hiring a boat and a guide you can go on safari here and experience this fascinating ecosystem first-hand.

Going Snorkelling

It’s no surprise that the azure blue waters that lap away at the Langkawi beaches hide a vast reef of vibrant corals just waiting to be explored. There are even artificial reefs that have formed around old shipwrecks that are now teeming with life. So, grab your gear and go snorkelling if you’re ever here!

Reaching the Highest Peaks

Not every one of Langkawi’s attractions is centred around the Ocean – the Gunung Raya is the region’s highest peak and makes for an excellent hiking trip. The way up to the peak takes you through the dense rainforest that is full of vibrant characters like leaf monkeys and cheery songbirds. If you keep your eyes peeled you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic great hornbill!

A Handy Guide to Colombo

A cosmopolitan city beside the coast, Colombo is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and offers plenty to see and do. Here are some of the best places to visit and fun experiences that await.

Key Attractions

When it comes to sightseeing, there’s plenty to explore while staying at hotels in Colombo, Sri Lanka; those interested in history and art can visit the Colombo National Museum and the National Art Gallery. The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple and nearby Seema Malakaya are two sacred Buddhist sites of interest, while the Independence Memorial Hall and the Viharamahadevi Park are popular attractions too.

AKS.9955, Seema Malaka side view 01, CC BY-SA 4.0

Beachside Getaways

For fun times by the shore, Mount Lavinia Beach in the city’s suburbs is a must-visit site. Located across from the property of Berjaya Hotels & Resorts, this beach is popular for relaxation and recreation. Also worth heading to are Wellawatte Beach and Galle Face Green, a large public park beside the ocean.

Retail Therapy

The One Galle Face and Colombo City Centre malls offer lots of shopping and feature international brands such as Armani Exchange, Charles & Keith, Mango and Aldo. Majestic City and Crescat Boulevard are amongst the other popular malls in Colombo, while the Pettah market provides bargains galore.

Foodie Favourites

No trip to Colombo is complete without savouring delectable local cuisine. Here are some of the top dishes in Sri Lanka one can try;

• Rice & spicy curry (meats or veggies)
• Kottu roti (a stir-fried dish with cut up godamba roti)
• Hoppers (bowl-shaped crispy pancake)
• Samosa (deep-fried snack)
• Isso wade (deep-fried snack with prawns!)

Ji-Elle, Sri Lanka-Egg hoppers, CC BY-SA 3.0

Safaris at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

Looking to spot wildlife away from restricting and often artificial zoo environments? Then plan a safari to Yala National Park in Sri Lanka and look forward to an unforgettable adventure!

Getting to the Park

The main entrance is in Palatupana which is around 305 km from the commercial capital, Colombo. While you will need a 4WD vehicle, the park does offer jeeps and guides too. When it comes to planning a Yala safari in Sri Lanka, wildlife tours are amongst the options worth considering since your transport and accommodation are taken care of.

Majestic Leopards

One of Yala’s main allures is the fact that it is home to the highest leopard density on the planet! Be it on special wildlife drives or photographic leopard safaris from tour specialists like Nature Odyssey, there are many adventures to see these majestic predators. Early morning and late afternoon are generally the best times for such safaris.

Animal Highlights

Of course, as you travel around Yala be on the look-out to spot other wildlife too; you may see a sloth bear ambling along the road, elephants socialising in a herd, spotted deer leaping through the foliage, water buffaloes basking in the sun or mugger crocodiles in search of a meal!

Amazing Avifauna

Birdwatching enthusiasts have much to look forward to since Yala is home to endemic and migratory species. Having a guide or bird guidebook will help to identify these many varieties; they include the grey heron, great stone plover, painted stork, serpent eagle, Sri Lankan Junglefowl and the Sri Lanka grey hornbill.

Things to do in exotic islands in Seychelles

In Seychelles, you find three large islands, namely Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. Out of all of them, Mahe is always the most special because there are so many activities you can try out when you are there.

Hitting the Beau Vallon Beach

Although there are more than 50 beaches on the island, Beau Vallon can be called one of the most touristy beaches. As there are many hotels close by this beach- the likes of Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino, it never lacks visitors who come there for activities like parasailing and even jet skiing.

Exploring Victoria – the capital city

Exploring Victoria can mean exploring the best of the island of Mahe. Say goodbye to the busy city life and just enjoy this destination, especially the Victoria Botanical Gardens that’s a lovely heaven of rare tropical flora.

Tasting the best of street food

It’s true that you get to enjoy all different cuisines from Indian to Spanish from your hotel in Mahe, but once in a while, try giving yourself a chance to taste some street food too. Visit Bazar Labrin on a Wednesday and have the best street food experience with live music and dancing.

Stargazing after a hike

If days are just so busy for you, release all your stress with a great stargazing session. Just plan a hike at night, and spend your night seeing the amazing star patterns on the sky.