Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

There is no better venue than the magical Maldive Islands to engage in the thrilling pursuits of water sports. With the essential ingredients of surf, sun and sand in plentiful proportions, the Maldives has in recent years made a name for itself as a premier destination for water sports. Whatever your energy level or preference, the Maldives assures a delightful experience with aqua sports.

Swimming and snorkelling may be the simplest of water sports, but they are no less enjoyable amidst the Maldives’ sapphire seas. Snorkelers will be able to obtain a glimpse of the vibrantly coloured coral formations to be found in the tropical seas, and the multitude of denizens of the deep to be found amongst them.

If you wish to venture further into the depths of the shimmering waters, a scuba diving session is the answer; the Maldives is renowned as one of the world’s exceptional diving sites. There are many diving schools in the Maldives which offer training and equipment for this always memorable activity.

Sailing is a well-established sport that has never lost popularity, with many water sport fans taking to the evergreen sport.

The rolling ocean waves beyond the coral lagoons offer a wonderful environment for surfers, and windsurfing is equally popular in the sea breezes of the Maldives. For the thrill seekers a multitude of water sports await. Speedboating offers thrills in a relatively secure manner, and there are many models on offer to suit the taste of the enthusiast. Jetskiing is a popular option, and powerful machines are available for the expert. If water-skiing is more to your taste, there are many sites in the Maldives which cater to this exciting pursuit.

There are many more somewhat unusual sporting activities for those who enjoy these adrenaline-inducing pastimes. Parasailing has become common in recent years, with a growing number of enthusiasts who will find themselves well-catered to in the Maldives. Catamaran rides are also growing in popularity as numerous aficionados have grown to relish this unusual sport. Other options on offer for the enthusiast include kite surfing, mono skiing, knee boarding and banana riding.

If you desire a more leisurely experience, you may opt for an excursion in a glass-bottomed boat, which will enable you to experience underwater life while remaining dry, or venture farther into the seas for a dolphin cruise. The avid big game fishing aficionado will be delighted with the spoils on offer in the Maldives.

For the traveller desiring to stay at villa in Maldives an ideal choice would be Anantara, Kivavah. One of the excellent Maldives resorts this fine accommodation offers modern comforts in a lovely setting.

Surrounded by stunning marine biodiversity, the Maldives has much to offer in way of underwater adventure. With the intention of giving visitors of all ages a chance to experience this remarkable beauty, the country’s latest attraction gives one a chance to go diving by way of an actual submarine!

Built in Germany, this spacious vessel has a 50 person capacity and lays claim to being the largest passenger sub involved in deep sea diving. The air conditioned aquatic vehicle can achieve dive depths of up to 150 meters and has a perfect safety record.

This unique attraction gives passengers a chance to not only experience what it is like on board a submarine, but to also take in the breathtaking sights of the coral reef system and the colourful creatures that call it home.

A typical ride on the submarine involves descending below the ocean surface to an underwater reef. On the way down one can view a range of marine life and Lionfish, yellow and blue stripped Snappers and turtles are among the underwater inhabitants common in the area. One of the stops sometimes involves setting down near a submerged cave where one can see various other fish and depending on the day even rare sightings of Napoleons, White Tip Reef Sharks or the fearless Giant Grouper who is not known to be camera shy!

Dive destinations sometimes vary according to such factors as current and passengers may on occasion be taken near shipwrecks or even a shark feeding area. The dives start at nine in the morning and continue till eight at night, spaced out in ninety minute intervals. Night time dives bring a whole new perspective including a chance to see such creatures as manta rays.

This forty five minute undersea exploration is a chance to experience a world of vibrant colour and grotesque beauty which one would not normally get a chance to see and makes for a truly memorable holiday.

Maldives resorts offer travellers a chance to enjoy life amidst the peace and quiet of a private retreat. Those looking for an exclusive coastal getaway can stay at five star hotels Maldives such as the Nalandhu, Maldives which combines modern luxury with the privacy of a secluded resort.

Sharks tend to conjure up images of horrifying and agonising deaths in the water. This is partly due to Peter Benchley’s book “Jaws” and the subsequent Steven Spielberg film of the same name that have somewhat vilified sharks as being blood thirsty predators who roam the seas in search of helpless human victims. While it makes for good suspense, the actual fact is that sharks are not the “villains” they are made out to be and many shark species are in fact endangered.

Realizing the importance of sharks both as an integral part of the marine ecosystem and as an attraction for tourism, the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives has initiated the Maldives SHARK WATCH Program. Designed to create awareness, this initiative also looks to collect data on the shark population in the Maldives by way of “sighting cards” that are gathered from such sources as local dive centres and tourist resorts that operate diving excursions.

Also blessed with a rich and diverse coral reef ecosystem, the Maldives is home to around 37 different species of shark including the “Patrollers” who are known for their relative friendliness. However, in the past, the shark population in the Maldives has come under threat due to over fishing which has caused numbers to decline. This in turn has had an adverse affect on tourism since the sharks themselves have become quite a draw especially for those looking to explore the surrounding waters.

In order to combat the declining shark population, the Maldives Ministry of Fisheries and Agriculture has implemented a ban on the fishing of reef sharks in and around all the Maldivian islands. It is hoped that the ban will slowly but surely lead to an increase in shark numbers while the Maldives SHARK WATCH Program plays an integral part in monitoring these developments.

Maldives Resorts are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, while travellers looking for luxury accommodation when on holiday can stay in Five Star Hotels Maldives which offer that extra bit of pampering. The Nalandhu, Maldives combines both these elements and offers guests an idyllic coastal getaway amidst the sun, sand and surf.

When thinking of a vacation in Abu Dhabi, tourists should not miss an opportunity to explore the desert landscape that surrounds this emirate. A popular tourist activity is to take a desert walk or join a tour group that would guide one through this fascinating landscape.

To begin one’s desert walk why not start at the largest Arabian oases located at the Empty Quarter – the Liwa Desert. The desert is famous for the Bani Yas tribe who has a long line of descendents who have made their homes among these surroundings.

The tribe is considered as the descendents of the Bedouin forefathers of the present generation of rulers of Abu Dhabi. With palm fringed roads and freshwater pools to enjoy, the Liwa Desert offers excursions, which are close by to the city.

The Liwa Desert is a popular tourist destination mainly due to its location, towards the south of Abu Dhabi the dessert forms a border with Saudi Arabia. Locals describe the desert much like a sentinel guarding the entrance from the Southward end of the emirate. Almost as if it were made to guard the Empty Quarter’s edge. This is also, where the largest sand desert in the world is to be found, it is known as the Rub Al Khali.

If you are on your way to the desert to indulge in a desert walk, it is hard not to notice the small quaint little towns and villages that have sprung up. Tourists will also notice that there are even a few farms that have emerged against the backdrop of the sand dunes.

On arriving at the desert or while travelling there, a unique aspect of this mysterious landscape is the changing colours of the desert sand. This will become more apparent when one sets foot on the sand. The most beautiful is towards the end of the evening when the sands begin changing from golden to red against a backdrop of a setting sun.

To be able to truly appreciate the culture of the desert, tourists should consider spending a few days at an Abu Dhabi resort . One such as the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, situated in the Liwa Desert will definitely be an experience that will not be forgotten. Decked out in very traditional and local motifs the atmosphere created here, will take tourists back to the days of camping out in the desert, and unlike other Abu Dhabi resort hotels, the views are absolutely breathtaking.

In recent years Abu Dhabi has consolidated its position as a premier tourist destination. With its tropical year-round sunshine, scenic sand dunes, pristine beaches and traditional Arabian hospitality Abu Dhabi is a memorable holiday destination. Appealing to both leisure and corporate travellers with modern convention centres, spas, theatres and golf courses amongst other facilities the desert emirate never disappoints its guests.

A desert safari in the environs of Abu Dhabi is a delightful way to experience the magical aura of the Middle Eastern desert. Always a thrilling adventure, safaris take the visitor deep into the desert providing a genuine insight into the challenging conditions of the desert as well as its beauty and mystical allure.

Four wheel drive vehicles take the visitor on a rollercoaster ride over the picturesque high sand dunes which promise to be an invigorating experience for even the most jaded of travellers. The peaks of the lofty sand dunes provide a panoramic view over the desert landscape which stretches out as far as the eye can see. Especially memorable is the vista of the desert sunset, a once in a lifetime experience.

‘Wadi bashing’ is a popular activity for the thrill seeker. A ‘wadi’ is the term used for a dry rocky riverbed found in the desert carved out by flood waters over millennia; innumerable wadis are to be found in the deserts surrounding Abu Dhabi. A four wheel drive vehicle is used to drive through these riverbeds, a bone–shaking and tough adventure, but always memorable. Before engaging in wadi-bashing it is important to receive comprehensive instructions from an expert, so as to avoid any unnecessary complications.

Traditional falconry displays may also be observed in the desert environment, with expert falconers demonstrating this age-old craft. Visitors may also enjoy camel rides and receive henna decorations on their hands or feet.

Some safari excursions will take you to a Bedouin campsite where you will be entertained by a talented belly-dancer moving sinuously to local music for a truly distinctive Arabian experience. A sumptuous barbeque dinner will be served at the end of the evening.

For the traveller selecting amongst Abu Dhabi resorts, there is no better choice than the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This fine luxury resort Abu Dhabi offers promises lavishly appointed rooms and courteous service assuring a memorable stay.

For those who wish to delve in to the past of Dubai, the best place to visit is the Heritage and Diving Village. It is also the ideal place to explore the city’s unique culture, lifestyle and long lived traditions. The village is situated at the entrance of Dubai Creek in the Shindagha Area.

Heritage and Diving Village of Dubai has today become a popular tourist attraction since it is an area that promotes local art and crafts.

A unique feature at the Heritage Village is its Barsati homes. Guests can visit the outdoor kitchens attached to these Barsati homes where women serve mouth-watering traditional local cuisine. The Heritage Village also has a souk where visitors can purchase a memorable souvenir to take home with them. The village offers the visitor the chance to discover a side of Dubai that cannot be seen in its modern day city. It is also the best place to see potters and weavers at work churning out their best masterpiece.

The main focus of the Diving Village is the maritime culture in Dubai. It is a place where travellers will be able to discover important facts on fishing traditions, pearl diving and pearling boats.

Special demonstrations on Pearl diving which is one of the oldest professions practiced in the region can be enjoyed here. Pearl diving is considered a dangerous profession even at times when the sea is calm and safe. At one point almost each villager’s livelihood depended on Pearl diving, however today the entire profession has been destroyed and it is carried out only for demonstration purposes for the tourists.

The best way to make the visit to Dubai more culture and heritage oriented is to visit the Heritage and Diving Village. Tourists can easily explore this fascinating village by staying at the nearby Copthorne Hotel Dubai which is a Luxury Hotel in Dubai . It is a contemporary accommodation that houses 163 comfortable and lavish rooms and suites.

Just a little over 50 years ago, Abu Dhabi was no more than a fishing village with a fort, some coral buildings and endless desserts dotted with oases. As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi does not hold as much world prominence as neighbouring Dubai. However, it offers a more traditional approach to Arabian living, and the skies are dominated by gleaming skyscrapers, the shopping is just as exceptional and the food divine! Some of the great places to see whilst on holiday include, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village, Cultural Foundation, Emirates Palace, Corniche Park, Qasr al-Husn and the Women’s Handicraft Centre. Shopping in Abu Dhabi is exceptional at the Deira City Centre and Marina Mall Tower, whilst dining opportunities offers itself from local delicacies to international fast food chains.

Expanses of dessert surround Abu Dhabi, and there is no better thrill than doing some off road driving. The activity is so popular that today it has become a sport, and the annual competition of the Abu Dhabi Dessert Challenge, which is the closing event of the FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championships and FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup. A collection of cars, bikes and trucks partake in this event each year. Driving on what is locally known as ‘wadis’ or dessert trails is easy, but once you take your 4WD off the road, the drive becomes more challenging and it always advisable to have a second vehicle at hand, along with an experienced driver who is familiar with the terrain. A book guide is available called the UAE Off-Road Explorer, which is quite useful. Tour operators can also be easily found to take your on your off road drive in the Abu Dhabi dessert. The challenges are exhilarating and the techniques are entirely different to driving on the road, so if you are up for the adventure, there is no better place to start, than Abu Dhabi dessert!

Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? There are many accommodation options in Abu Dhabi to choose from. But none stands out like the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi that offers a fine array of rooms and suites that cater to families, groups and individuals. A better known five star hotel from the many Abu Dhabi hotels available in the city, Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi also provides the additional service of babysitting your children if required.

With breathtaking scenery and landscape that offset gracefully by a ravishing coastline, cultural marvels and historical monuments, Thailand is one tourist destination which offers variety with great hospitality. The coastal line of Trang which stretches over nearly 120 km is a perfect example for a place with multiple interests. From its origin as a fishing village to its national park, it boasts of several delightful locations and excursions such as a scenic drive, a boat trip to explore the caves and a string of islands each as interesting as the other.

The Chao Mai Cave is one such place of interest located in the Marine National Park that is situated along this coastal stretch of Trang. Among the many places of interest, the cave holds a special interest to many visitors due to the rarity of the experience. The cave which is quite large is located on the south side of the park and can be entered by the sea. This is a stalagmite cave with many levels of which the bottom level is the biggest has all the levels interconnected by a passage on to the right of the cave. One of the distinctive features about the cave is its extensive rock formation: stalactites and stalagmite form tall pillars that rise up to the very ceiling from the floor. An attractive variant to the cave is a small but beautiful spring gushing from the top level chamber within the cave. The boat trip to the cave is thus a much anticipated event for the visitors to the marine national park.

After wondering through the mashy lands, coastal stretches and wonderful boat rides or even to a begin a day laced with such adventures, there’s no better place to take refuge than the Anantara Saiko, Thailand. Situated by a beautiful coastal stretch in the Si Kao district, this exotic resort and spa is one exceptional Krabi Resort Hotel to dwell in. This is one spa and resort that holds a special place out of the many Trang Hotels, with a range of international and Thai delicacies waiting to seduce the unsuspecting traveler.