Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Bungee Jumping on Lamai Beach

A popular destination, Lamai Beach gives tourists the chance to relax with the many spas and masseurs that offer you the chance to unwind – and with a variety of massages to choose from such as the Thai oil massage or an aloe vera wrap, one is certainly spoilt for choice. If unwinding is not the ideal vacation, a more adventurous holiday can be opted for.
Elephant trekking is available giving newcomers to Thailand a unique way to experience the lush, green forests with an Ariel view; as all treks will be conducted via elephant ride. Tropical birds of the region and endemic flora are just some of the sights to experience as the elephant slowly makes its way through the vegetation. It is truly an eco friendly way to experience the region.
Bungee jumping at the resort offers an exhilarating, off the track adventure for the thrill seeker and is an experience that is definitely worth the investment. The place also offers water based activities such as jet skiing, parasailing and windsurfing, with windsurfing  being one of the beach’s more famous sports. For the night owl there are a range of bars placed right along the beach that gives a chance to let loose and have some unrestrained fun, be it alone or with a gang of friends.
After a day of adventure, Lamai Beach gives you the chance to relax with its many beachside cafes that offer great value meals while watching the sunset transform the sky into a golden yellow. Walking along the coast, the scenery can be enjoyed by night while vendors on the beach offer great souvenirs such as sarongs and authentic jewellery.
Packed with adventure and numerous activities, Lamai Beach is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy with family and friends. When looking for a Koh Samui resort which would provide the ideal accommodation for a visit, the Anantara Lawana, Koh Samui resort and spa is situated right by the ocean. This Samui beach resort offers a luxurious stay and the best in service, catering to every need. A variety of international restaurants and local shops are only a short walk away from the hotel should visitors wish to explore.  

Water Sports in Paihia: fun activities for the entire family

Tucked away in the northern most point of the North Island of New Zealand lies the Bay of Islands. This little collection of land masses are situated within a natural bay that brings in warm winds and vibrant seas ideal for a beach retreat.

Paihia is the most popular tourist town amongst this collection of islands. It is symbolic in New Zealand history as the site of the first cricket match ever held in the country. In the towns surrounding the vicinity lie some of the country’s most historic townships, regarded as some of the first settlements during the colonisation of this isolated, volcanic landmass.

Paihia was first colonised in the early 1800s by a missionary named Henry Williams. Since the town’s creation it has been a tourist hotspot attracting visitors from around the world to its exotic sandy beaches and deep blue waters.

A popular activity amongst locals and travellers are water sports. There are many companies and groups that will help you plan a day filled with wet fun and excitement. Traipse across the bay and partake in some sailing and fishing tours and learn how to catch big game such as the marlin and shark. Sailing tours offer a relaxed outing on a sail boat over the pristine waters of the bay where one can take the time to appreciate the surroundings. Kayaking tours offer great insight into the many islets and internal waterways in the region as you explore the diverse landscapes and assorted flora and fauna.

Stretch your arms and fly like a bird on a breathtaking parasailing tour of the Bay of Islands. A unique panoramic view greets participants as they are awestruck by the magnificent beauty of the blue waters and lush green coastlines.

For those who wish to explore the universe beneath the waves, dive centres are available with a host of packages focusing on different regions around Paihia that offer a wide array of aquatic flora and fauna to explore. Swimming with the dolphins is also a popular pastime especially with the younger crowd.

Travellers looking for a hotel in Paihia Bay of Islands to stay in while enjoying the wet and wild fun of the town’s water sports options need look no further than the Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia. With a prime location overlooking the waterfront, this Paihia hotel offers a comfortable retreat in the heart of the historic Bay of Islands.

Adventure Travel in Anchorage

The snowy city of Anchorage is far from being your typical American metropolis where parties are endless and the streets are crowded. However this charming city too has a few tricks up its sleeve which attracts visitors all year round. The Alaskan Aviation Heritage Museum is one such location which attracts a significant amount of visitors. The Earthquake Park and the Delaney Park are some of the most interesting places in Anchorage where travellers can get to know about the area and its inhabitants. The Alaskan Zoo in one place that you simply cannot miss when you’re in the city. This well constructed zoo has a remarkable selection of both common and rare animals which will surely be of interest to every nature loving traveller.

One of the best ways of exploring the wilderness of the Alaskan region is on foot. Hiking through the greenery of these forests might be a challenging task for most of us but the fresh air of the great American outdoors, the beautiful sights and sounds and the graceful animals that you meet along the way makes it effort spent on trekking through the harsh terrain worthwhile.

Many expedition organizers in the area will be able to offer the nature lover guided tours to Hallo Bay and Walrus Islands where spotting bears, eagles and even lumpy walruses is as easy as spotting an animal in a zoo. The lakes and streams that run through this area are also full of life and unimaginably beautiful. One can also organize a fishing trip which will take you to the most plentiful waters in the area and will give you the chance to enjoy a fresh meal right out of the water.

Millennium Alaskan Hotel Anchorage is conveniently located in the heart of the city and is known as one of the leading Anchorage Alaskan hotels. This outstanding option among hotels in Anchorage AK has a number of accommodation options which are elegantly appointed and tastefully furnished to match the needs of the traveller of today.

Desert Camping, an idyllic escape


Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and largest city in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is recognized as being among the most modern and advanced cities on the globe. One of the most affluent cities worldwide Abu Dhabi is a beautifully designed metropolis with wide streets lined by green boulevards, landscaped parks and gardens, lavish shopping malls and modern high-rise buildings.

Traditionally featuring a petroleum-based economy, Abu Dhabi has actively promoted tourism in recent years with new regulations put in place to attract foreign visitors. With a diverse array of shopping options which make it a delight for the avid shopper and a multitude of dining opportunities ranging from gourmet cuisine to inexpensive eateries the visitor will be well catered to in Abu Dhabi.

Located in a desert environment it is not surprising that Abu Dhabi offers a selection of desert-based activities. Tours recreate a genuine Arabian ambience and tour operators provide excursions that provide an authentic flavour of the regional culture with modern conveniences. Most tours will include an exciting desert ride in a 4×4 vehicle (the adventurous traveller may also try Wadi Bashing, riding an off road vehicle at speed over rocky riverbeds and sand dunes), a camel ride, delicious Arabic coffee accompanying delectable barbeque meals, with unforgettable entertainment provided by an Arabian belly dancer.

The desert sunset seen after ascending the highest sand dune is a sight that must be seen to be believed. At the Bedouin campsite you may avail yourself of a unique henna tattoo created on your shoulder as a memento of your trip into the Arabian desert.

However those who desire to truly experience the majesty and ambience of the desert must opt to camp overnight amongst the desert sands. The tranquil stillness and pristine freshness of the desert air underneath clear night skies will undoubtedly be a memorable experience never to be forgotten. Camping may be undertaken as part of an organized excursion arranged by a tour operator, or you may hire a four-wheel-drive vehicle to go on an intimate journey into the sands. If you choose the latter option it is important to take a GPS system or a compass to assist in maintaining the correct directions.

For the visitor seeking Abu Dhabi luxury hotels the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara will fulfil every expectation. This fine Abu Dhabi resort provides gracious service making for an unforgettable stay. 

Indoor Skydiving in Abu Dhabi, an exhilarating experience


Indoor skydiving has in recent years gained great popularity as a recreational activity for both experienced skydivers and novices interested in trying out this amazing adrenaline-inducing activity. Situated at the Abu Dhabi Health & Fitness Club, the Spacewalk Abu Dhabi provides exhilarating entertainment for all, with the only preconditions being that participants should be over 3 years old and less than 90 kilos in weight. Anyone can enjoy the thrill of levitating in midair without the dangers and complexities of jumping out of an airplane.

With the focus on enjoyment Spacewalk attracts a multitude of local residents as well as tourists visiting the region. Unlike a ride or a specialized simulator, Spacewalk permits adventure seekers to actually fly supported only by a column of air. In every instance a well experienced instructor accompanies the participants in the flight chamber while a knowledgeable controller is at hand to adjust such factors as the wind speed assuring an enjoyable and completely safe flight.

On your first flight at the venue, you will receive a personal briefing from an instructor and view an introductory video. You will be able to rent all the necessary equipment such as goggles, a flight suit and helmet.
The flight instructor will instruct you on the various signals used to indicate the positions which will be taken during the Spacewalk session. This is necessary as verbal communication is not possible while the wind tunnel is in operation.

Indoor skydiving is made possible through a device known as a vertical wind tunnel. This modern invention forces air upwards in a vertical direction. Due to the force of the wind humans are able to seemingly float inside the tunnel without parachutes or any other aids. Wind is generated upwards at about 120mph, which is the terminal velocity reached by a human body falling in a prone position. However this figure may vary amongst different individuals. Skydivers have commented that the sensation created is very much like actual skydiving.

When selecting amongst Abu Dhabi resorts the discerning traveller will be well served by the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This fine Abu Dhabi resort offers excellent accommodations and service. 

Rafting on the Mea kok River

Travellers to Asian nation of Thailand herald it as an amazing destination. Its popularity stems from its abundant attractions, rich heritage and cultural sites, inviting beaches and exotic nightlife. For both the business and leisure traveller Thailand remains a favourite stop.


The province of Chiang Rai in Thailand is also known as the Land of the Golden Triangle. Located in the northern part of the country it is where the borders of Burma, Laos and Thailand meet. The province is celebrated for its steep history, distinctive culture and popular fruits. Home to over a million inhabitants including an indigenous tribe known as the Lanna, the area is also renowned for its tourist attractions.


Several memorable sites with historical significance can be located in Chiang Rai. These include numerous temples, monuments and statues. Dating back to the 13th century is the Wat Phra That Doi Tung. This structure highlights ornate architecture and panoramic views. Natural attractions in the northern area also include the Doi Luang National Park, picturesque rural settings and the Golden Triangle along the famous Mekong River.


The Mea kok River is also located in the northern province of Chiang Rai. Heralded as one of most scenic rivers it remains un-spoilt despite attracting many visitors. With the length of over 130km, this river flows though cliffs, banks, village settlements and hills. A popular sport using the river is rafting. The gentle rapids attract both the novice well as the experienced rafters as they journey through both Thailand and Burma.


For the adventurous seeking to explore the River in its entirety, the voyage will take several hours to complete. Excursions are also organized from various points of the waterway providing both interesting activities as well as sightseeing possibilities. From dense jungle terrain to serene waters awaits the rafter. While sights of elephants bathing are will also a delight for those on the excursions.


Travellers to the region can opt for budget accommodation to the more luxuriant Chiang Rai hotels. A hotel in Chiang Rai providing an escape in to paradisiacal settings is the Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand. Immersing culture and tradition with alluring views offers visitors to this resort a truly magical getaway.

“Big Red” Adventures in Queenstown


Imagine, as you speed along the canyon river mere centimetres above the water, the wind against your hair, your adrenaline pumping. The boat driver expertly drives the speed boat, as he weaves it in and out past rugged outcrops of rock, gliding past boulders and swiftly through narrow canyons. This exciting adventure is only part of what you will glimpse if you try Jet Boat Adventure in Queenstown.

Queenstown, situated in the Otago region of New Zealand is a picturesque town and the centre of adventure tourism. Surrounded by rocky mountains and valleys of clear blue lakes, it is ideal for water sports.

“Big Red” as the boats are called, is built specially to handle the Shotover River Canyon waters. Developed for maximum speed, strength and optimum movement, these boats are also powered with two Buick 3.8 litre V6 engines, producing 520 horsepower. Two Hamilton 212 Jet Units provide steering and control, propelling 760 litres of water per second. This unique combination means that “Big Red” can travel 85kpm in as little as 10cm of water.

Jet Boat Adventures provides you with an unforgettable experience and an adrenaline rush you will not forget easily. Make sure you hang on tight; as the driver makes the signal that you are about to experience their famous “360°” spins.

If you are concerned about your driver, have no fear. Each Jet Boat pilot has had a minimum of 120 hours of vigorous river training, which is more than double of the New Zealand requirements. Employed for their personality as well as their driving ability, each pilot will deliver you a unique experience in an enthusiastic fashion, giving you an experience you will not forget easily. By combining on-water delight and personalized passionate commentary, you will have memories that will last a lifetime.

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront provides you with the perfect location from Lake Wakatipu. Being a Queenstown ski resorts, you have adventure whatever time of year you go. This Queenstown resort blends superior facilities with personalized service. It is located 5 minutes from the heart of the city, close to many activities including Jet Boat Adventures and other water sport activities.

Canoeing through Thailand’s Verdant Paradise Krabi


Occupying a captivating location on the Andaman Ocean the national parks of Krabi have often been ranked among the finest canoeing destinations in all of Thailand. Encompassing some of the globe’s most spectacular natural wonders such as limestone hills and sea coves these lush landscapes flanked by verdant forests offer nature lovers a personal encounter with the pristine natural world of southern Thailand. Traversing through the mesmerising caves, lagoons or “hongs” and tunnels that have been created by millions of years of erosion serious kayakers and canoeing enthusiasts can expect a once in a lifetime experience filled with adventure, thrills and spills the likes of which they are not likely to find anywhere else in the nation.

With the aid and equipment supplied by innumerable tour operators in Krabi visitors can choose from a verity of canoeing packages to explore the environs. From one day trips, to more compact half day excursions, guests are likely to find a tour that suits their group and needs. Most trips set off from Ao Nang Beach which is a short boat ride away from Railay Beach and is also a popular pick up point for most operators. Local guides also come along for the ride with useful tips and know how on the landscapes in the itinerary.

A one day canoeing trip in Krabi will typically start with kayaking along Ban Bor Thor around 9am which will be followed by a relaxing half hour spent sipping tea or coffee before setting off from the shores of the bay once more. Concise lessons on paddling and navigating the environment are given by experienced pros before guests start to traverse through the labyrinth of mangrove jungles in the area.

After a break for lunch on the white, sandy beach kayaking along the bay continues with a variety of topographical anomalies on offer. These include wading through sea caves and encountering natural wildlife while ancient cave paintings are also a highlight on the route. After returning to Ban Bor Thor beach guests will have the unique opportunity of swimming in the Tha Pom freshwater pool before heading back to Ao Nang.

The daytrip canoe tour of Krabi Klong Talen is also popular with seasoned visitors as this excursion includes exploration of the 500 feet long tunnel underneath a rock mountain as well as caves glimmering with stalagmites and stalactites. A series of rock gardens are also a key feature of this trip which takes kayakers through several hongs laden with mangroves.

Travellers on the lookout for a Krabi resort hotel on the shores of Changlang Beach should look no further than the stylish Anantara Saiko, Thailand. Ideally located within a stone’s throw of the beach this conveniently located Trang hotel is also a mere hour away from the Krabi International Airport.

The Epitome of Natural Serenity


Auckland is famously known as the City of Sails and earned its nickname from the love that the locals had for the sea. The name is befitting once you see the yachts and boats that dot the harbor like a white print on an expansive blue cloth. Auckland expands over a narrow isthmus between the dazzling blue waters of the two harbours; Waitemata and Manukau. There is an expanse of rainforest that cloaks the surrounding hills and many dormant volcanic cones are scattered all over the landscape and the massive Hauraki Gulf is home to many captivating holiday islands.

Situated a mere forty minutes drive away from the capital city are the Hunua Ranges, covering nearly 400 square kilometers of the South East of Auckland. Most of the land area is dedicated to the Waharau Regional National which has been restored meticulously over the years and preserved for public recreation and water catchment.

The Maori used the hills of Hunua Ranges for obtaining firewood and timber rather than for permanent settlement. The highest peak of the Hunua Ranges is the Kohukohunui. The British settlers of Auckland cleared the forest for agriculture purposes and in 1870, wood was the main source obtained from the mountains. Since Victorian times, the Hunua Falls have been a popular attraction and today, it still draws many an adventurous tourist with its beautiful misty veils of cascading water. Fittingly, water is the main resource taken from the Hunua Ranges. Amongst the four water supply dams that are found in Hunua is the Mangatangi Reservoir, New Zealand’s largest water supply.

The Waharau Regional Park in the Hunua Ranges is home to more than 450 species of native plants. In addition, the expansive park is ideal for explorative travelers who love hiking. With dense forests that fuel the curiosity of anyone who has a love for flora and with high ridge lines ideal for a hike that would get your heart racing, the Hunua Ranges offer endless opportunities to visitors. If you prefer a less challenging walk however, you can take the shorter yet equally scenic route to the Hunua Falls. There are swimming holes scattered in and around the falls that offer refreshing breaks for any hiker looking to cool off for a while. In addition, there are several camping areas with picturesque views, ideal for anyone who wants to spend the night in the Hunua wilderness.

Both the Mangatangi Reservoir and the Mangatawhiri Reservoir offer rainbow trout fishing at the face of the dam and the Hunua Ranges is home to many different critters. From freshwater crayfish in the rivers and the many different species of endemic land snails, the Hunua Mountains are bursting with wonderful flora and fauna. It is also interesting to note that one of New Zealand’s native frogs; the Hochstelter’s Frog occurs in Hunua and the ranges support the widest spectrum of native forest birds such as the Kakakiri, Shining Cuckoo, Fantail and Native Pigeon. The Hunua Ranges is a true nature lover’s paradise. With the stunning oblique sheath of water that is the Hunua Falls, the plentiful hiking trails with charming views and the lush forests teeming with the most curious wild life, the Hunua Ranges is a natural gem waiting to be discovered.

If you are planning to visit the Hunua Ranges, accommodation is of no worry. All of the Auckland City hotels are within forty minutes drive from the Hunua Ranges. The city of Auckland is well facilitated and journeys to the Hunua Ranges and back are extremely easy. If you are searching for Auckland hotel specials, you would be given a superfluity of options and for every traveler looking to grab hold of some rest and relaxation. The Copthorne Hotel Auckland City is ideal for you; situated in the heart of Auckland City, you would only be a heartbeat away from the hustle and bustle of the conurbation and from all the facilities it offers once you get back from your hike through the ranges.

Easy to Follow Tips on Snorkeling In The Maldives


Surrounded by calm and crystal clear sea waters, the islands of the Maldives make for an ideal destination for those looking to spend their holiday snorkeling. A relatively cheap way of experiencing the spectacular marine ecosystem that lies along the ocean floor, snorkeling is a safe and fun outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by young and old alike.

Since the Maldives is home to a diverse reef system, snorkeling is the ideal way in which to take in its colorful corals and the varied marine life that have found a home here such as Angelfish, Parrotfish, Butterflyfish, Sweetlips and the Wahoo.

While learning to snorkel is relatively easy and hassle free, there are a few basic tips one can follow which will help to make a snorkeling excursion a memorable one.

First one needs to get the right equipment which basically consists of a mask, fins and a snorkel. If you do not have your own, they can either be bought or rented out. It is important that the mask should fit snugly on your face, even without the need of tightening the head strap. One should also check the fins and ensure that they afford both comfort and flexibility for your feet. Since faulty or ill fitting equipment can ruin your snorkeling adventure, always double check your equipment before setting out.

Another tip for those wanting to go snorkeling in the Maldives is to plan ahead and come prepared. This includes finding out information and the locations of the best areas for snorkeling as well as knowing what the weather and tidal current patterns are for the area at the time you plan to visit.

Last but not least, generously apply a sunscreen brand that is also waterproof and always try to snorkel with family and friends or even with an instructor because you never know when you might need a helping hand or two!

Set alongside the water, Maldives Water Bungalows provide guests with a laidback home away from home in which to explore the stunning coastal beauty that surrounds the Maldives. Maldives Boutique Resorts are ideal for a romantic holiday getaway and the Anantara Veli, Maldives is just one such example that offers guests a truly unique and magical holiday.