Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Climb Mount Agung- The biggest mountain in Bali

Towering up over 3000 meters above sea level the mighty Mount Agung stands as the biggest mountain in Bali. This significant landmark of the city is not only an ornament to admire, but also makes an interesting adventure to undertake. Climb this amazing peek and get a view of the world like you have never seen before.

The Mount Agung is a Volcanic Peek and actually forms the chain of mountains that make up the Backbone of the city. Mount Agung made headlines when it had a gastronomically eruption in 1963 making one of the largest 20th century eruptions in the world. The eruption damaged much of eastern Bali, claiming lives, homes and much more. The Volcano is still active and occasionally puffs up smoke and ashes making it an only more intriguing landmark of Bali. Apart from all the adventure of the mountain, it is famed for its spiritual significance as it houses the mother temple Besakih. According to Balinese legend when the Hindu God Pasupati split the spiritual axis of the universe which is believed to be Mount Meru, a tiny fragment scattered making the famed Mount Agung.

Climbing Mount Agung is one of the most interesting adventures to undertake in Bali. The ideal time to start one’s tour would be shortly after midnight as this enables one to get to the peek by sunrise and experience the spectacular view of the sun rising above Mount Rinjani on Lombok giving you a breathtaking experience of a lifetime. The climb itself is fun and interestingly challenging. At lower elevations lush forests surround you but as you climb higher you will be greeted with a more desolate landscape with volcanic rock and Ash Screed. There are several routes to get to the top and plenty of guides to help you get there. On the way do not miss the sacred Besakih temple which gives you a beautiful cultural and religious insight which is definitely worth a visit.

After an amazing climb up 3000 feet it is of great importance to wind down amidst utter comfort. Although there are plenty of Bali resorts to choose from, the Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa makes one of the finest Luxury Hotels Bali that gives you everything you need in a nutshell.

Snorkelling in Maldives- Explore Eden Underwater

If anyone wants to know what the Maldivian seas are most famous for, the answer is definitely the underwater paradise this nation proudly boasts of. As Maldives has perfect crystal clear waters and fantastic tropical water temperatures, snorkelling makes one of the most rewarding activities to undertake. With its wide array of amazing species and beautiful corals surroundings the many islands and atolls, this adventure will ensure you that you do not resurface disappointed in any way.

The Maldives has 26 major atolls and over 1190 coral islands. Throughout these regions one can find a number of secluded spots to experience the finest snorkelling. This is by far the easiest and least complicated way to experience the underwater paradise of Maldives, all you would need is a face mask, fin and a mouth air tube and you will be good to go. If you are still a bit hesitant, there are plenty of instructors who would not only help you do it right but will guide you to the correct spots to get a glimpse of a particular type of species or corals, whatever your choice maybe.  Explore the sparkling turquoise lagoons that offers you an array of fish, each vibrantly coloured, and savour the beautiful pastel shades of sponges and corals that adorn this Eden underwater. There are over 200 different species of Marine life that make their homes in the Maldivian Seas. Some common favourites include lion fish, scorpion fish, clown fish, butterfly fish, Manta Rays, Eagle rays, Octupus and so many more. So enjoy the thrill, excitement and adventure that snorkelling under these waters ensures. Try undertaking the adventure at night and experience all these amazing feelings literally in a different light. As the flash illuminates the gorgeous sleepy world prepare to be transported to a whole new magical dimension.

After exploring the amazing underwater world of Maldives, choose to wind down in one of the finest Maldives Island resorts, such as the Naladhu Maldives. Boasting a breathtaking beach of Maldives at its doorstep, a soothing and relaxing ambience and star class service this is one Maldives hotel that ensures you enjoy the best of this amazing island.

Mountain Biking And Cycling In Sri Lanka

Situated just to the side of the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is considered the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. The little tear drop shaped island has bounced back from years of civil war to become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The island has been blessed with immense natural beauty and much of the country is covered in dense green foliage. One can even find plenty of trees scattered in the cities. Those looking for a change in scenery should consider visiting this tropical paradise.
Those who love the outdoors and have a taste for adventure can explore the island on bicycle. There are four National Cycle Trails located at scenic spots throughout the country. Including one starting at Sabaragamuwa, which is a province located near the Central Highlands. The network of roads criss-crossing the country is vast, and they range from tarred roads to country streets and gravel paths. Bicycles provide travellers with freedom to explore places that are inaccessible to cars and vans. The terrain varies along different parts of the island and one can find trails suitable for beginners as well as experts.

The plains of Sri Lanka offer little challenge to bikers and are ideal for novices and those who do not want to exert themselves. The Central Highlands provide tougher trails but those who take them are rewarded by exquisite vistas of forested valleys and sparkling waterfalls. The average temperature in the highlands is also much cooler than in the rest of the country making for a pleasanter riding experience. Cyclers can meander along lonely winding roads, while enjoying the fresh clean mountain air or ride down rugged trails on sturdy mountain bikes. The options are endless. 

While Sri Lanka travel can get a bit frustrating, especially if one is depending on public transport, cycle tours provide a charming, healthy alternative. One can find plenty of outfits that provide Sri Lanka tours by bicycle. Jetwing Travels is one of the most well-known cycle tour organisers. They offer tours a range of tour packages to the island’s biggest tourist attractions, from Negombo to Galle to Kandy. 

Uncover Picturesque Phuket on an ATV Tour of the Holiday Mecca

Often described as a truly Thai way uncover Phuket All Terrain Vehicle tours are becoming the mode du jour when it comes to free spirited exploration of the popular holiday destination. Ideally suited for adventure seeking tourists looking to spend a few hours discovering the culture, natural beauty and vitality of the holiday Mecca at their own pace the tours lets visitors explore the lesser known areas of this beach haven and the communities that dwell within its fringes. An ATV tour as they are locally known can be as brief as a one hour excursion or be as extensive as a two hour outing that takes stock of the area and its attributes in its entirety. Tour operators will offer visitors a number of All Terrain Vehicle tours to choose from that encompass various aspects of the area such as its plant life, its community life or natural wonders.
The ATV tour experience of course begins with a pick up from the hotel and transport on board a minibus to the Phuket ATV Park. Registration and an informative briefing follows at the camp site where participants are given a crash course in operating the lawnmower like vehicle that can accommodate up to four riders. The practiced manoeuvres include riding in small circles, driving along a figure 8 and curve riding which are conducted under supervision on a gravel road. The tour commences by taking riders along off road trails that include narrow paths laden with minor obstacles that usually cut across forest landscapes and local plantations. Mud laden trails and steep inclines are also thrown in for good measure as riders discover the joys of ATV touring.

After returning to the camp site for refreshments riders will set off on other terrain in Phuket which includes sandy patches, mountainous and flooded areas and zig- zag trails. Riders can then take on the public road and travel across Phuket crisscrossing plantations, driving past local communities going about their daily activities. ATV tours through fruit plantations, jungle landscapes and palm laden areas are popular among seasoned visitors who sometimes combine an all in one package which includes an ATV excursion coupled with an elephant trek to Phuket’s mountainous regions.
Visitors in search of luxury Phuket villas in the Thai holiday capital should look no further than the Anantara Phuket Resort Thailand. Ideally located near the Sirinath National Park this stylish Phuket resort on Mai Khao Beach is the resort to beat in this breathtaking corner of Thailand.

Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi

Hop on a four-wheel drive vehicle to experience a wild ride of dune bashing in Abu Dhabi. Various tour operators in the region offer this activity which makes for the thrill of a lifetime. Your driver will maneuver the vehicle to the crest of a sand dune and pause briefly at the top and then step on the gas to fly t a 45-degree angle down the other side. Experience this adrenaline pumping ride during your stay in the magnificent city of Abu Dhabi. For your accommodation needs select one of the Abu Dhabi Luxury hotels. An ideal option in this regard is Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Ranking among the finest Abu Dhabi hotels, it promises an enriching holiday experience.

Scuba Diving in Koh Samui

Samui is an island with an area of 228.7km populated mainly by the log established Buddhist populace; the Chao Samui. The people of this country are quite easygoing as they belong to various religions and races, making this location a cultural melting pot. As a result, the island moves from celebration to celebration, guaranteeing any visit a colourful one. The island attracts around 1.5 million tourists yearly on account of its beautiful beaches, densely populated coral reefs, and magnificent hotels. 

Diving in these beautiful waters is a lovely way to enjoy the natural resources of the island, but it is also an activity that requires proper training and preparation. Luckily for visitors, Samui plays host to numerous diving schools with a handful of heavily awarded diving schools which provide the most comprehensive diving education. There are various services available from short courses for those who wish to qualify as quickly as possible and explore the waters and more advanced courses for veteran divers seeking higher diving qualifications. The lessons coupled with the scuba gear might be a bit pricey, but in the end, they become the keys to the beautiful underwater kingdom of Ko Samui.

The coastline of Ko Samui is a treasure-trove of discovery for the adventurous tourist who is in search of rare sea creatures such as the reclusive and magnificent whale shark, as well as numerous species of triggerfish and sea turtle. Of all the spectacular sites for diving available, Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock are perhaps the most noteworthy diving sites; a notion supported from the scores of experienced divers that have explored its beautiful depths. Apart from the various fish that visit the coral reefs, the reefs themselves vary enormously from one diving spot to the next. This variation of coral, for example from hard to soft, creates different environments for divers to experience a wide variety of marine life.
Ko Samui’s coastal beauty requires time and patience in order to be fully appreciated. More so, if one lacks the qualifications necessary for diving then time is needed for even the most elementary course to be satisfied. As such, one should choose a Koh Samui resort that is close to the beach and is steeped in luxury. A Chaweng hotel such as the Anantara Lawana, Koh Samui, provides guests with plunge pool rooms, and balconies capturing the beautiful scenery of the island, which serves to provide such guests with a very rewarding island experience. Accordingly, it is among the finest providers of such luxuries on the entire island, making sure to keep guests comfortable throughout their stay.

Surfing in Bali

Whether it is soaking up the tropical sun, drenching in the glistening sea, or riding the Antarctic waves, Bali is an irresistible combination of adventure and relaxation.  Days at Bali are like sunny days borrowed from the very heavens, where under the expansive blue sky, one can enjoy the most perfect swells that rise from the Antarctic and come frolicking this way as if to lure the bold and the adventurous to conquer its changing and challenging dimensions.

Among the many things that make Bali holidays a once in a life time experience, surfing plays a huge role. This island of Indonesia sits on a very snug spot on the Antarctic, embracing the southern swells from the Antarctic and has both its south east and west coasts generously scattered with surf spots.

The best month of the year for surfing is considered to be July.  However the period between April and October are supposed to be the best for the west coast considering the direction of the wind. The world famous Kuta Beach is indeed one of the most crowded areas for surfing simply because of its ideal conditions with great surfing waves that even beginners can master. What is more, its sandy beach is littered with affordable and great eating venues and accommodation and has a colourful night life plus easy access to the heart of the city and the international air port. If one wants to get away from the crowds and learn surfing, the Padang Padang beach is the perfect place for a beginner with good surfing conditions and a host of instructors who are familiar with the local conditions to guide you through the experience.

For the more experienced surfer, the Uluwatu beach is a fabulous choice.  The beach even boasts of a few exotic Bali resort villas that thrive on the breathtaking scenery of this coastal stretch. Stroll down the reef hill and come upon this ravishing beach where the swells are claimed to be hollow and fast and huge waves arise from a rocky bottom. Alila Villas Uluwatu is a cluster of villas that are ranked high among the Bali luxury villas available. The resort takes in some of the most breathtaking views from the beach with its position upon an elevated plateau. The interiors exude the Bali inspired, timeless elegance while a sense of serenity seems to surround the entire venue, including the pool and bar on the cliff top and its Warung style restaurants that serve sheer gastronomic delights.

Desert Safaris

Desert safaris are a highly popular activity in Abu Dhabi. Attracting both locals and tourists alike, one has the option of choosing their means of transport through the vast desert. Whilst choosing a camel ride is more ideal for sightseers, the adventurous can opt for wadi bashing or dune driving in the emirate. These desert safaris lead you though the majestic sand dunes followed by a memorable evening of buffet dinner accompanied by a performance from beautiful belly dancers. Travellers can choose one of the Abu Dhabi resorts to spend their holiday in the emirate. Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara is an ideal choice in this regard, ranking among the finest Luxury Abu Dhabi Hotels.

Sail Away to Paradise in Breathtaking Koh Samui

Ranked among Asia’s top sailing destinations, seasoned water sports enthusiasts deem Thailand’s Koh Samui the country’s premier hub for water-based activity with good reason. Blessed with vast expanses of emerald hued oceans dotted with paradise islands, sailing fans will hardly find a finer venue to engage in their favourite pastime. Whether catamarans, speed boats or yachts are your preferred vessel, local boat charter operators will provide avid sailing fans a wide variety of cruise options to choose from. Visitors can select either a fully crewed or bare boat sailing excursion across magnificent landscapes blessed with sunny skies, crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery that is only found in this idyllic holiday hideaway in Thailand. Ideal for boating all year round, visitors can sail and discover the Koh Samui Archipelago which spreads out over 50 square miles of open seas with more than 80 stunning islands dotting the landscape.
The area offers slightly challenging sailing conditions during the day, while night time conditions are largely calm. As an “off the sailing radar” venue, Koh Samui sail excursions are unhindered and un-congested unlike other popular sailing destinations around the world; this lets visitors castaway at all times of the day to diverse locations such as Ang Thong Marine Park, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. 
The Malay Peninsula in southwest Koh Samui is a popular mountainous region that is perfect for leisurely sailing excursions as it is shielded from harsh wind conditions that sometimes plague other coastal areas of the region. One can explore the ‘Five Islands’ off the south-western shorelines or step over to Koh Taen coral island where seclusion and privacy are found in abundance. The island is also a snorkelling hotspot while sunbathing and swimming are other popular activities available to sailing tours dropping in for an afternoon. The breathtaking beaches of Koh Madsum are another hotspot and the area is renowned for vibrant marine life and corals and pristine coastlines where picnicking is an absolute must.
Travellers in search of a luxurious Samui resort should look no further than Anantara Bophut Koh Samui. Located on a stunning beachfront on the Gulf of Thailand, this Samui hotel also boasts spacious living spaces decorated in traditional Thai decor.

Snorkelling in Maldives

Owing to the abundance of marine life which exists in the waters surrounding the islands of Maldives, it makes for an ideal destination for snorkelling. With colourful coral reefs and over 700 aquatic species, this underwater world offers plenty to marvel at.  One of the simplest ways of taking a glimpse of these marvellous creatures, snorkelling is an activity suitable for the whole family. Some of the interesting marine species you may get to see include fusiliers, wahoo, mating octopus, butterfly fish, sweetlips, jacks, trevally’s and dogtooth tuna. Travellers seeking to stay at one of the Maldives bungalows, will be delighted to find Anantara Veli Maldives, which is a Maldives resort boasting elegant accommodation options and excellent service.