Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Tourism in Doha

The city of Doha is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf in the east of Qatar. Here’s some more information and a few places you can visit during your time there!

Overview
Considered as a ‘world city’ by the Globalisation and World Cities Research Network and in 2015, Doha was considered one of the ‘New7Winders Cities. The majority of the population living in Doha are Muslims, however, you’ll also find plenty of Catholics in the city.

Museum of Islamic Art
Boasting a world-class collection that spans 1400 years, the Museum of Islamic Art allows it’s visitors to gain a broad insight into the world of art, together with its rich history. Just 11 minutes from Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli and other such hotels in Doha, Qatar, this museum is quite an experience.

Souq Waqif
Your trip to Doha is incomplete if you do not visit Souq Waqif, a vibrant complex with an atmosphere that’s unmatched. Built on an ancient market site, Souq Waqif is known to be the social heart of Doha. The market is a true journey to the past, showing the old Qatari village lifestyle in the best way possible.

Doha Corniche
If you’re looking for just a relaxing stroll, the Doha Corniche is the answer. The corniche was built to reach from one end of the city to the other, the view from the corniche is amazing!

Art Galleries in Doha, Qatar

If you are staying in one of the hotels in Doha and hope to take a couple of days to explore, make sure that you put the famous art galleries into your list. Here are a few you can consider.

1. Museum of Islamic Art
Called the Mathaf Al-Fann Al-Islami, the Museum of Islamic Art was built in 2008 and holds works of art taken from across central Asia and the Middle East.

2. National Museum of Qatar
Considered one of the most important places to learn of the culture of Qatar, the National Museum of Qatar. It was designed by Jean Nouvel who is an award-winning French architect.

3. Arab Museum of Modern Art
Considered the hub of modern and contemporary Arabian art, the Arab Museum of Art is situated about 15 km away from Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli. You could incorporate it into your adventures for a day.

4. ALRIWAQ
A non-collection-based exhibition space was built in 2010 and is very closely situated to the Museum of Islamic Art. It has played host to some of the most famous art shows and continues to put Doha on the map when it comes to international art exhibitions.

5. Katara Art Centre
Dedicated to showcasing art and culture in a modern and contemporary sense. The Katara Art Centre and Cultural Village is a place by the sea full of art spaces, music stages and eateries. Experience the culture of the Qatari.

 

Spotting Dolphins in Sri Lanka

Playful and swift, dolphins are amongst the most fascinating creatures that call the ocean home and can be found off the coasts of Sri Lanka.

 

Spinner Dolphins
Also referred to as the long snouted dolphin, spinner dolphins are relatively small in size. This species can be seen in areas like Kalpitiya as part of dolphin watching excursions offered by tour specialists like Walkers Tours. One of the features of spinner dolphins is that they are known for their acrobatics, and sometimes leap in the air!

Bottlenose Dolphin
One of the most well known species, bottlenose dolphins can easily be seen on a dolphin watching tour Sri Lanka has to offer in areas like Mirissa. This species has a diet that’s mainly forage fish and is generally known to be part of pods that can be 10 to 30 in number.

Risso’s Dolphin
One of the largest species of dolphins, Risso’s dolphins can also be spotted off the island’s coastlines. While this species has a sizable anterior body, it can sometimes grow to lengths of around 14 feet! You can look to spot them while on excursions out to sea in Trincomalee on the country’s east coast.

Striped Dolphin
Commonly found in tropical and temperate waters, the striped dolphin is relatively smaller in size and generally feeds on squid and pelagic fish. One of the characteristics of this species is its body colour, which is different from other dolphins and makes it easier to spot as well.

Planning the Perfect Vacation to Myanmar

Myanmar was previously known as Burma and even from the earlier days, this country was known to the world for its stunning temples, beautiful historic landscapes and much more. A tour to Myanmar can be really exciting if you do some proper planning beforehand.

 

The best time to visit
To visit Myanmar, the best time would be the shoulder season which falls from April to May and October to November. But every hotel in Yangon as well as in other regions gets their maximum number of visitors from November to February when the weather is cooler.

Organizing visas
If you want to travel to this country, applying for visas is a must. But the process is easy because it can be done online. There is a fee applicable and the process does not take too long if all documents are fine and clear.

Where to stay in Myanmar
It is not a big burden to find accommodation in Myanmar, because these are in abundance. From hostels, guesthouses to resorts such as Sedona Hotel Yangon the country has it all, and they provide safe accommodation to all their travellers as well – so security is never an issue here.

The top attractions
If you are interested in temples, the country has the best places to visit. Pick from places such as Shwedagon Pagoda, Ananda Temple, Dhammayangyi Temple amongst many other historical monuments. Also, if time permits visit Bagan if you have a passion to explore architecture and Inle’s Waterways if you want to see the largest freshwater body in the country.

 

Cruise Planning travel blog

If you’ve never been on a cruise, now is the time to get on it and plan one! Cruises aren’t like your traditional holidays, they are so much better. Here’s some help when planning it!

Choose the destination

You’ll be given a plethora of choices in terms of destinations as there are plenty of cruises all around the world! Also remember, when it comes to a cruise, there is not just one destination, there’s always more than one involved, so pick carefully. For those interested in a Mekong River cruise, consider the ones provided by Mekong Kingdoms, and you won’t be disappointed!

Choose the accommodation

Before making your final decisions, you need to give some thought to the type of accommodation you prefer. You may also need to take into account who is accompanying you and thereafter pick a type of accommodation that best suits you and your travel partner/s.

Find the right cruise

With the number of cruises available, you might find yourself extremely confused as to which you’re supposed to pick. The best thing to do would be to research on the cruise and the stops it will make and check if it lines with your interests and likes.

 

Hike to the highest mountain on Tioman

Mount Kajang, locally known as Gunung Kajang, is the highest mountain peak in the whole of Tioman Island. An extinct volcano, the very top of the mountain lies in between the clouds. Here’s a bit more information for you!

Overview


The mountain towers over 1038 meters high and are not only the highest mountain in just Tioman but the highest in the whole of Malaysia’s East Coast. An extinct volcano, this mountain is not easy to get to as it is extremely remote. Regarded as the mountain that stood still, most of the land in the mountains is untouched and yet to be discovered. In fact, most of the mountain is so untraveled that most of the time it’s best that expeditions are carried out with a qualified ranger.

The mountain

Biologists have constantly been fascinated by Gunung Kajang for decades, the reason being its volcanic past and evolutionary isolation of the island. The history of this volcano has also had a big impact on Tioman’s native flora and fauna. There are also plenty of species of plants and animals on Tioman that you’ll catch a glimpse of as you scale the mountain.

Preparing

Remember, as this mountain is extremely difficult to hike it is best to go with someone experienced. If you’re staying at Berjaya Tioman Resort or any other Tioman resort, make sure you ask them more information before you get started! You can never be too ready!

 

Mystery Manila for brave hearts!

The commotion that never seems to end, the streets crammed to the last inch don’t paint a nice picture. But that’s where the secret to having a fun holiday lies.

Intramuros: the oldest part of the city

The contrast between the oldest part of the city and the region around it is profound. The way the houses line the streets give you the feeling that you are in a European city. You can journey the city on foot or by a horse-drawn carriage.

Visit Ayala Museum

Located in close proximity to Berjaya Makati Hotel, the museum encapsulates the city’s history. The museum was established in 1974 and displays a collection of valued items pertaining to the country’s maritime and colonial history.

Culinary Fare

For a bit of upscale dining, you can pop into one of the hotels in Makati. But other than that, if you want to grab something cheap, the streets of Manila are brimming with local specialities.

Bonifacio Global City

Other than what you see in museums, Manila is known for street art. If you go to Bonifacio Global City, you can see buildings painted with massive murals.

 

Explore the highest peak in Langkawi

If you’re looking to explore destinations in Langkawi, make sure you add Gunung Raya to your list! Here’s some more information for those interested.

The legend

The locals believe that Langkawi was once home to a band of giants and that certain peaks were formed as a result of a fight between two giants, who turned to stone as lightning struck from heaven. A brawl broke out between Mat Cincang and Mat Raya at their kids’ wedding – and another third and peaceful giant Mat Sawar tried to stop them. The highest mountain; Gunung Raya, represents Mat Gunung.

The mountain

Gunung Raya has an altitude of 881 meters, making it the highest mountain in the whole of Langkawi. Located in central Langkawi, the entire mountain is covered with a dense rainforest that is full of flora and fauna. The forest area covers over 5000 hectares.

Getting there

You can reach the top either through a car or trek all the way up. If you opt for the latter, you’ll have to climb up 4287 stairs. Remember, the weather in Langkawi is extremely humid so as you leave Berjaya Langkawi Resort or any of the other Langkawi resorts you’re based at, make sure you pack plenty of water and wear suitable clothing.

 

What is Doha Nightlife Like?

Although Qatar is a Middle Eastern country, it has always had differences when compared to other countries in the region. People are very open-minded here and this may be due to the combined population of Europeans and Americans who live here. It’s truly a country of freedom.

Doha Nightlife
Needless to say, Doha is not only rich in its natural gasses and oil sources, but the nightlife here is quite happening too. Visit hotels in Doha Qatar on one fine evening and pop into one of their pubs or night clubs located closeby for an experience of a lifetime!

Alcohol is fine with tourists
Due to religious reasons, alcohol consumption is restricted in Doha, but this does not apply to foreign tourists. Properties the likes of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli are popular among tourists and bars at such hotels do have alcohol for their guests.

Nightclubs are also there
Nightclubs in Doha are only permitted in the territory of hotels and resorts in the country. Even if you don’t stay at a hotel in the area, you can still enjoy its nightclub with cocktails and famous DJ shows.

Things to keep in mind
If you plan to visit a nightclub in Doha, keep in mind every nightclub closes its doors after 2.00 AM in the morning, and where ever you go to enjoy the nightlife, it is always better to have your ID and passport with you to avoid any hassles.

Wildlife Hotspots in Sri Lanka

If you love witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat then Sri Lanka is the destination for you. Here are some key places where wildlife abounds.

Yala and Wilpattu
There’s nothing quite as thrilling as spotting an elusive Sri Lankan leopard on a safari at the Yala or Wilpattu national parks. These majestic predators are not the only wild inhabitants you may see; be on the lookout for Sri Lankan elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, deer, monkeys and a wide range of bird species too.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve
A Biosphere Reserve, this forest sanctuary is a premier spot for bird watching. If you stay at a Sinharaja eco lodge Sri Lanka has to offer, you can easily see many of these birds. The Rainforest Ecolodge, Sinharaja is one such option from where you can head off on birdwatching excursions to spot endemic species like the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon and Sri Lankan junglefowl.

Minneriya and Udawalawe
At Minneriya National Park you can witness The Gathering (June to September) featuring hundreds of elephants, while the Udawalawe National Park is home to a sizeable elephant population too. On safaris at these parks, one also see a diverse array of other species including toque macaques, mugger crocodiles, deer and if you’re lucky, a leopard or two.

Mirissa and Trincomalee
Located on the south and east coasts respectively, Mirissa and Trincomalee are two of the best spots for whale watching in Sri Lanka. Apart from seeing species like blue whales and humpback whales, you can glimpse playful dolphins too!