Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Shaped like a turtle – the island of Penang in Malaysia is anything but little, in terms of the variety of entertainment and beautifully engaging sites it has to offer tourists, a trip to the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is an adventure in itself. A vacation in Penang offers a multifaceted experience, which comprises of beaches covered by palm trees, unique temples and its intriguing heritage alone makes it a thrilling place to visit. Penang plays host to a multi racial community, comprising of Chinese, Indians and Malays who make up the majority, and comes as no surprise that tourists who venture out to Georgetown will find a mosque, church and even a temple in close proximity to each other.

Sports such as motor boating, sailing, canoeing and even parachuting are quite common and for those into such adventure sports Penang is the ideal place to be. The Tanjung Burgah beach stretches for miles on end, beginning from Tanjun Toking and bordering with Telok Bahang.

The beaches are dotted with many restaurants that serve various cuisine, and a day at the beach spent just lazying on the sand, with a scrumptious lunch would be ideal for the traveler who is looking to relax and take in the sites.

For art enthusiasts the Yahong Art Gallery is a good opportunity to familiarize oneself with the country’s cultural art works. The gallery is easily accessible from Batu Ferringhi and is just a short drive away. At Jalan Teluk Bahang, visitors could catch a glimpse of the country’s traditional art works in the form of a batik factory. For the more adventurous in spirit the beautiful Forest Museum is amazing. Aside from this, the trip to the Butterfly and Orchid Farms is a must while on holiday in Penang.

To get about in Penang there are many options but an interesting way for the more adventurous would be to take a traditional trishaw ride through the city. The trishaws available here are a little different from those available in other Asian countries. The vehicle is like a bicycle and the driver has to cycle. The vehicle is open at the front and it gives tourists a better view at a leisurely pace.

Another option is to hire a motorcycle, which is another fun way of exploring the island as well as bring travelers closer to mingling with the locals. A standard rate is usually set for renting the bikes per day and is affordable.
Although, not all travelers maybe interested in zipping through Penang and may prefer a leisurely vacation, for such tourists looking to laze around the beach, then accommodation at a beach front Penang hotel could be a good alternative as well. A hotel such as the Copthorne Orchid Hotel Penang, is set in Tanjung Bunga, and its locations is ideal for sight-seeing as many popular tourist attractions are close by.

A holiday in the vibrant city of Dubai is not complete without experiencing the thrill of skydiving. The feeling of falling from thousands of meters up in the air has attracted crowds of locals and tourists to try out this exciting sport, making it one of the most popular sports in Dubai. Definitely an activity for the adventurous, skydiving brings about an indescribable surge of adrenaline in the skydiver and allows the skydiver to behold the sight of the Dubai city from an eagle’s point of view.

The growing number of clubs and institutions in Dubai that provide courses and opportunities for skydiving is an indication of the popularity of this activity among those visiting Dubai. Even the first timer can enjoy the hair raising thrill of skydiving by first engaging in a Tandem Jump offered by the famous Umm-Al-Quwain Aeroclub. This beginner’s jump is the safest method of sky diving as the skydiver’s harness is attached to that of an instructor’s. Though it is a beginner’s jump, it spans an altitude of 12,000 feet and has all the elements of a typical adrenaline surging sky dive.

Skydiving is an incredible experience, and there is no better place to do it than in the pulsing city of Dubai. Tourists looking to explore the many attractions of the city from a hotel in Dubai and enjoy the city’s vibrancy can stay at the world famous Raffles Dubai. This unique pyramid shaped hotel provides luxury accommodation in Dubai while offering offers unmatched relaxation and elegance in the heart of the city.

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 a 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.

Amongst Indonesia’s tourist attractions Bali takes a prominent place with its lovely beaches, cultural attractions and hospitable residents. Despite its popular status it is still possible to find peace and serenity at this delightful location. No visit to the scenic and culturally rich island of Bali is complete without a Kintamani Volcano Tour. One of the most popular and renowned Bali tours, this exciting adventure takes participants on an unforgettable journey through the highlights of the area.

The Kintamani Volcano is still in active condition although major eruptions are not expected. A picturesque and tranquil site, the environs of the volcano are always a delightful location in which to unwind and relax. The nearby Lake Batur is the largest lake in Bali and has functioned as the major source of irrigation for the farmers of the locale.

The Kintamani Volcano Tour also presents performances of the traditional Keris and Barong dances which always inspire the imagination of the beholder. At Celuk Village you will also visit master gold and silversmiths, while at Kemenuh Village you will get the opportunity to observe a woodcarving artiste at work.

Another fascinating attraction on the tour is the 11th century Elephant Caves Temple which was formerly a meditation retreat for Hindu and Buddhist monks. Age-old stone idols and beautiful reliefs may be seen here. Not to be missed is the intriguing Holy Spring Water Temple which features a large extent of water at its centre. Locals believe the temple’s clear and clean water to be sacred, with the power to cure diseases.

The tour will also take you to Tampak Siring village where the visitor will be able to explore its appealing spice garden. On the journey back, the traveller will be fortunate enough to cross some picturesque rice fields and will also be able to take a stroll through the Ubud Monkey Forest with its playful residents. The final stop on the journey is a renowned painting gallery where visitors may admire and gain an understanding of traditional Balinese painting with its rich history.

When selecting Bali hotels an excellent choice would be the Anantara Bali Uluwatu, a fine Bali luxury hotel which offers fine accommodations and appealing comforts.
Keywords – bali hotels, bali luxury hotel, anantara bali uluwatu, kintamani and volcano tour, attractions in bali, places to visit in bali

Snorkelling is a popular pastime that is indulged by many around the world and Cairns is no exception in this regard. A popular destination for this pastime, this city has a lot to offer through its clear waters. It also has the distinction of providing some of the most easily accessed reefs in the world.

Visitors can cruise just under the surface of the pristine water and relax as they take in the many sites that lie upon this new horizon. Various forms of marine life can be seen swimming to and fro while the spectacular coral reefs found here are also breathtaking.

Snorkelling is popular among many due to the fact that only the ability to swim and good fitness are essential. Beyond that no additional training is required unlike diving and it presents a perfect way to relax in the water. When talking of the water in Cairns, it’s extremely clear, and provides good vision of all the beauty that lies beneath the waves.

Travellers will find that various tours are on offer, each of which provides a different scope of activities. When travelling to Cairns, visitors have the option of booking various water activity related tours. These will vary from just snorkelling to a comprehensive range of activities including deep sea diving. Some of the operators will allow you to jump straight off the boat in to the waters while others start off by simply walking in to the waves from an island or cave. Another interesting offering provided by some operators is the option of snorkelling back and forth between two floaters allowing visitors to snorkel and rest whenever they choose.

Being one of the many luxury hotels Cairns, travellers choosing to stay at Shangri-La Hotel The Marina Cairns will experience an enhanced level of comfort. This Cairns hotel also features an ideal location that provides convenient access to major transport options.

The scenic island of Koh Samui is home to many waterfalls that are both stunning and picturesque to behold. A visit to any one of Koh Samui’s waterfalls provides a relaxing and tranquil break away from the more crowded parts of the island. Many of the sites of the waterfalls are ideal for picnicking, whilst swimming is possible at a few places. Epitomizing the natural beauty and splendour of the island, the waterfalls are a must visit when holidaying in Koh Samui!
Koh Samui’s most visited waterfall is the Namuang Waterfall which actually has 2 separate falls.

Situated near Ban Thurian, this spectacular falls is popular for its convenient access path and refreshing swimming area. The first of the Namuang Waterfalls features a 20 meter drop and has steep staircase formed of natural rocky outcrops that take visitors down to the base of the falls where you can enjoy a swim in the waterfall’s crystal clear waters. Elephant paths run close to the site and if you are lucky, you just might spot one! The second of the Namuang Waterfalls is perhaps the island’s most beautiful one with its lush surroundings, scenic rock formations and cascading flow of water that gushes from a height of 80 meters. This falls is approximately a 10 minute hike away from the first falls.

The Wang Saotong Waterfall is a relatively tall waterfall in Koh Samui. This amazing site can be accessed by engaging in a leisurely trek that spans a distance of a kilometer. For seclusion and privacy, visit the Hin Lad and Samui Hin waterfalls on the island. The Hin Lad Waterfall has a 2 kilometer jungle trail that leads to it. This shady trail runs through verdant foliage and is an amazing site to explore. You can cool off with a relaxing dip in the waterfall pool upon reaching the falls. The Samui Hin Waterfall is located in the highlands of Koh Samui. This spot is ideal for a quiet picnic.

Book a room at the Anantara Bophut, Koh Samui for an unforgettable holiday in this tropical island. Nestled in Fishermen’s Cove along the breathtaking Bophut Beach, this luxurious hotel in Koh Samui is the perfect hideout for a relaxing holiday. The hotel’s warm hospitality and seductive charm has made this accommodation base one of the most popular Koh Samui hotels in the area.

Dubai is a city that strives for attention. Of all the United Arab Emirate countries, this one is perhaps the most laid back one. They like to live in luxury, and have no qualms about entertaining all things that add glamour to its already imposing reputation. With an economy that lives on the oil industry, this rich nation is steeped in religious upbringings and all things beautiful. Their malls are posh and upscale, their local markets are charming, Dubai is a nation that appreciates the finer things in life. Dubai can actually be considered as the country that first every introduced the concept of having a ‘shopping festival’.

Of the many leisure activities to be experience in this dynamic city, sandboarding is one of the more popular few. If ever you tried your hand at skiing, then this sport is sure to delight you as well. Sandboarding is the simple act of skimming down a sand dune on what is known as a sand board. Sand boards are hardier than snowboards, and do require a special kind of wax to be applied to ensure that your ride is smooth.

There are several operators and companies that provide the equipment and guidance required to do sandboarding in Dubai. This sport has gained fast popularity and can be experienced by novices and experts alike. The highest sand dunes can be found with a 30 minute drive from the city. And the best time to do sandboarding in Dubai is in the morning, when the temperatures are cooler. If you are really looking for something special, then head over to what the locals refer to as ‘Big Red’, this sand dune ranges between 200 to 300 meters high, and can be quite the adrenaline rush.

Needless to say Dubai is destination worth visiting, from its gold souks to fine dining options; it would be a shame not to experience it. Dubai serves up a variety of accommodation options. One that welcomes a personalised stay in their tastefully furnished guest rooms is Grand Millennium Dubai. This reputed Dubai hotel is just minutes away from the Emirates Golf Club, Wild Wadi, Burj Al Arab, World Trade Centre and 35 minutes away from the airport. Of the many Dubai luxury hotels to be found, this one is truly worthwhile considering.

Splendid China is an all inclusive miniature park located in Shenzhen. It is an ideal place to explore the history, architecture, art and traditions of the diverse nationalities in China.

Located at the Overseas Chinese Town, Splendid China Miniature Park offers the smaller and scaled down versions of the country’s great buildings, unique locations and well preserved customs. Exhibits at the park are placed to replicate their real environmental locations. Splendid China also holds a position among the world’s biggest scenery parks.

Managed by China Travel Services which is a leading travel and tourism corporation, the park is beautifully positioned by the Shenzhen Bay. It consist of more than 100 major tourist attractions in China, which are all scaled down and laid in line with the factual map of the country. Most tourist sites have been reduced to a scale of 1:15 and the entire park is separated in to two areas, namely the Comprehensive Service Area and Scenic Spot Area.

At the glamorous 30 hectare Splendid China scenery park, visitors will have the chance to explore the replicas of many of the major Chinese attractions all in one place. These miniatures are created to represent their original at its best. Many experts and architectural specialists perform extensive research at the actual sites in order to replicate the closest resemblance.

The exhibits are surrounded by beautiful gardens which makes exploring Splendid China a relaxing and pleasant. The miniature tourist sites are complete with more than 50,000 ceramic figures.

At Splendid China visitors will be able to view the miniature version of the 6,700 kilometres long Great Wall of China. The replica found in the park is made with the use of white stone, scree and green bricks. Scaled down versions of the Forbidden City also known as The Imperial Palace can also be viewed here. Other replicas include the Old Summer Palace, the Ancient Observatory of Beijing, Tibet’s Potala Palace, Mount Huangshan, Li River, Huangguoshu Waterfall, the Mogao Caves of Dunhuang, Stone Forest and much more.

Splendid China is located close to numerous Luxury accommodation in Shenzhen that makes it much easier for travellers to explore. Visitors can conveniently plan their stay at a nearby Shenzhen luxury hotel and experience the warm hospitality and relaxing ambience. To experience maximum comfort and luxury the best place to stay is Futian Shangri-La, Shenzhen.