Lavinia Woolf | The Adventure Travel Site

Discover Nelson Mandela Square: A Must-Visit Landmark in Sandton

Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton is one of Johannesburg’s most iconic landmarks, offering visitors a blend of culture, history, and modern entertainment. Named after South Africa’s beloved former president, it is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of the city. From striking architecture to high-end shopping, there’s something for everyone. Here’s why you should put this vibrant square at the top of your list.

A Tribute to Nelson Mandela

At the heart of the square stands a towering bronze statue of Nelson Mandela, a poignant symbol of his leadership and legacy. The statue is an awe-inspiring sight and a perfect spot for photos, especially with the surrounding greenery and modern buildings as a backdrop. It’s a great place to pause and reflect on Mandela’s extraordinary contributions to South Africa and the world.

A Shopper’s Paradise

For those who love to shop, Nelson Mandela Square is home to a variety of high-end boutiques, international brands, and local stores. Whether you’re looking for fashion, jewellery, or unique souvenirs, this vibrant square has it all. It’s not just about shopping – it’s about the experience, with the bustling atmosphere and the sense of luxury that Sandton is known for.

Delicious Dining Options

When it comes to dining, the square offers an impressive selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars. From casual dining to fine dining experiences, you can indulge in a range of culinary delights. Whether you’re craving a steak, sushi, or traditional South African dishes, the options are endless. If you’re staying at NH Johannesburg Sandton, you’re just a short distance from these fantastic eateries.

Activities in Sandton

Sandton_at_night — image by NJR ZA via wikimedia commons

Beyond the square, Sandton boasts a wealth of activities. Explore nearby attractions, including the Sandton City Mall and the vibrant nightlife scene. From arts and culture to shopping and dining, there’s no shortage of things to do in Sandton. Make the most of your visit by taking in the local attractions and immersing yourself in the energetic atmosphere of this bustling area.

The Thrill-Seeker’s Guide to Rock Climbing on Phi Phi Island – A Journey of Resilience

Phi Phi Island is a playground for adrenaline junkies and adventurers. With its towering limestone cliffs and stunning coastal views, this tropical gem is a dream destination for rock climbers. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a newbie seeking a fresh challenge, Phi Phi Island offers epic routes, vibrant local culture, and incredible memories.

Sport_Climbing — Image by Ram Sripracha (Rsriprac) via Wikimedia Commons

Climbing Spots with a View
The limestone cliffs of Tonsai Tower and Maya Bay are iconic for a reason—they boast a variety of routes catering to every skill level. Imagine scaling rugged cliffs with breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea stretching below. Even if you’re not an expert, these spots offer guided climbs that ensure safety while you embrace the thrill.

Gear up and Get Ready
Don’t have your own equipment? No worries! Phi Phi Island’s local climbing schools provide everything you need. From harnesses to chalk bags, they’ve got you covered. Planning to stay nearby? The opulent SAii Phi Phi Island Village offers not just stunning accommodation but easy access to some of the island’s most famous rock faces.

A Dose of Island Hospitality
After an exhilarating climb, unwind at one of Phi Phi Island’s serene resorts. A stay at a popular Phi Phi island resort ensures you can rejuvenate in style while reflecting on your day of adventure. Sip on tropical drinks, bask in the sunset and get ready to conquer new heights tomorrow.

Why Rock Climbing in Phi Phi?
The combination of adrenaline-pumping routes and awe-inspiring scenery is unmatched. You’ll leave not just with a sense of accomplishment but also a story worth sharing. So pack your climbing shoes and your sense of adventure—Phi Phi Island is calling!

Conquer the Clouds: An Adventurer’s Guide to Trekking Hantana – The Stunner of the Upcountry

Maybe it was the allure of the beaches and the ocean that compelled you to visit Sri Lanka. After all, Sri Lanka is known as a tropical country extending an invitation for adventurers seeking fun in the water. But there’s another side to this island nation: the upcountry, dotted with mountains and streaked with hiking and trekking trails. Hantana is one of the most beautiful and serene places you will find anywhere, with sprawling mountains shrouded in mist and mild weather that’s the perfect tonic for sun-weary souls.

Best Time to Go

The best time would be the dry season from December to April when there’s no risk of rainfall and therefore the trails are not slippery. Plus, the dry season brings the most spectacular views, ensured by the clear skies. The monsoon months add a lush vibrancy to the green tracks, but trekking can become a bit challenging.

Accommodations

You can choose from a range of accommodations, including budget, mid-range, and luxury, catering to all budgets and taking into account all preferences. Consider what you want to do during your time in Hantana and ask yourself if you’d like to include some sightseeing in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka that’s close by, in your itinerary, and then pick a place. Those enthusiastic about exploring the fringing destinations as well as trekking in Hantana might want to check out Theva Residency.

Trails

Hantana offers several trekking trails, from easy to advanced.

The Hantana Peak Trail is the most popular; it leads you to the summit and takes about four hours to complete. The Hantana Tea Estate Trail, on the other hand, is a more leisurely trek that leads you through beautiful tea plantations. Meanwhile, there’s a scenic trail that passes by waterfalls within the Hantana range.

Tips

Make sure you’ll be at ease during the trek by wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. Don’t forget to bring water or wear sunscreen – even though the climate is mild, you still need sunscreen. Do not litter the trails or disturb the wildlife. Consider joining a guided tour if it’s your first time trekking in Hantana.

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Exploring Sukhumvit

Travelling solo can be quite a liberating experience if executed the right way! While it could get a little lonely, it also gives you the freedom to make decisions in the spur of the moment while not having to concern yourself with synching interests. If you are travelling solo to Sukhumvit, here are a few places that you could stop by!

img via flickr

Terminal 21 Shopping Centre

Calling all shopaholics! If you’d like to travel the world as you shop, look no further. Terminal 21 Shopping Centre is designed to resemble a separate part of the world on each floor. Splurge at high-end fashion outlets, sample a selection of international cuisines and unwind as you watch one of the latest blockbuster movies. At the end of your expedition, you could lay back and relax at Gardina Asoke, which is only a kilometre away from the mall.

Benjasiri Park

With a picturesque lake, lush greenery and blooming flowers, Benjasiri Park is a solo traveller’s paradise. Go for a jog, enjoy some people-watching or rest under the shade of a tree. Your opportunities for rejuvenation are endless at this tranquil park!

Soi Cowboy

If you hope to do so much more than spend your nights at a hotel in Sukhumvit, Bangkok, a trip to Soi Cowboy will be the perfect fit for you. Stroll down its neon-lit streets and dance the night away to the pulsating music of one of its many clubs.

Siam Niramit

Attending Siam Niramit will allow you to immerse yourself in Bangkok’s culture like you never have before. You could partake in ancient rituals, sample local cuisine and observe talented performers showcase traditional forms of art in stunning costumes.

Tips for Your Upcoming Zambian Adventure – A Land of Waterfalls, National Parks and Unique Wildlife

Venture into a country of diverse wildlife and natural beauties that guarantee an action-packed vacation for travellers. Enriched by large pools of water and vast areas of land, Zambia is one of South Africa’s awe-inspiring tour locations.

Game Drives

Fancy a game drive to spot the African buffalo? Thrilling rides at the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are one of the top things to do in Zambia, which is easily reachable in a 27-minute drive from Avani Victoria Falls Resort. Explorers will be able to spot a wide array of wildlife species from birds to feared predators. Among them are the Angolan giraffe, warthog, impala, Burchell’s zebra and sable.

Walking Expeditions

Take strolls down Zambian National Parks to enrich your stay in the country. This South African exploration may seem like quite the challenge at first glance, but with the guidance of armed guards and professional guides, it will seem like a walk in the park, only much better and exciting. The guided walks will open the doorway for travellers to discover fauna and flora that haven’t been spotted before in their lives.

Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia (48598577681), CC BY 2.0

A Dinner Cruise Down Zambezi River

Connect with Zambian nature as you cruise down the Zambezi River by Victoria Falls. The river cruises create space for travellers to get up close and personal with the surroundings of the river and the astonishing offerings of Zambian nature. The Zambezi-style dinner at the dinner cruise is a bonus to your experience.

Victoria Falls

The jaw-dropping view of Victoria Falls is guaranteed to linger in your memories for years to come. Back in the 1800s, the tribal people, Kololo described the cascade of waters as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’, which translates into ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, owing to the grandeur standing of the waterfall as the greatest curtain of falling in the world.

Pearl Diving in Abu Dhabi – A wonderful adventure

A rich and important aspect of UAE history and culture is pearl diving. Many of the riches and traditions that still exist in the nation today are a direct result of it. Even if pearl diving is no longer done for profit, it nonetheless contributes significantly to the industry and continues to attract tourists! Here are a few things you should know if you’re planning to do it.

Why is pearl diving so popular in the UAE?

In the past, pearl diving was a thriving industry in the UAE, supporting numerous prosperous careers. It frequently established the solid financial groundwork for numerous affluent Arab families. In the UAE, pearl diving is still regarded as a precious tradition and a significant aspect of local culture and is one of the most popular tourist activities in Abu Dhabi.

Where to go pearl diving?

From Yas Marina, travellers will board an authentic Emirati dhow and set sail toward a diving site one nautical mile away. You can join the hosts in singing along to classic Emirati songs while listening to legendary tales about pearl diving. After you’ve anchored at the diving location, you’ll be instructed in the traditional techniques for harvesting actual oyster shells from pearl beds in the Arabian Gulf.

Places to stay in Abu Dhabi

While admiring the city’s fantastic high-rises, which appear to defy structural logic, take advantage of a variety of beautiful beaches, gardens, and promenades to stroll or cycle. Several top-notch restaurants and shopping opportunities are nearby, from chic malls to souks. You can find many luxurious accommodation options such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort.

How did the commercial pearl diving industry decline?

In the 1920s, the Gulf pearl business started to decline. By the late 1920s and the early 1930s, it had further deteriorated. At that point, the Japanese had developed a method for creating perfect artificial pearls. This was the primary cause of the pearling industry’s downfall. Pearl divers in the UAE lost business as a result of the start of the Great Depression and the decline in returns from the pearl banks.

The Most Picturesque Beaches in Ao Nang – A Moment in Tranquillity

Ao Nang is home to many beaches, located in the Krabi Province. Some of the best beaches in Thailand are in Ao Nang, and the view, the waters, and the relaxing time you spend will be the most memorable. Here is the list!

Railay Beach

Undoubtedly the number one beach in Ao Nang and one of the most scenic beaches in Thailand as well, this beach is popular for the turquoise blue clear waters, the white glistening beaches and paradise-like views. If you’re staying in any Ao Nang beach hotels, this would be a minute’s ride for you, especially from resorts like Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort.

Pai Plong Beach

Another picture-perfect beach is located quite close to Ao Nang beach; this beach is hidden behind a gigantic limestone cliff. You can enjoy a luxury private beach experience here without having to pay any money. The palm tree hues, surrounding cliffs, and longtail boats resting on the sand make the view even more beautiful.

Tonsai Beach

Tonsai beach has many breathtaking views and a few limestone cliffs surrounding the beach, where you will see many backpackers and rock climbers often wander. There are several reggae bars around the area and budget-friendly dining options too. So if you’re on a tight budget and need to save some cash, Tonsai beach is the best place to relax and enjoy your vacation.

Adventures in Abu Dhabi – Safaris in the desert

After reading this informative guide, your experience on the Abu Dhabi desert safari will be so much better. Discover the ideal time to visit, how to pick the finest excursions and advice on how to dress for your safari.

Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

What is a desert safari?

The desert has always fascinated travellers, but many were put off by its harsh weather and lack of water, not to mention the potential for getting lost among the endless miles of sand hills. A desert safari is an expert-led tour of the desert where you can engage in a variety of activities that the native Bedouins of the area enjoy, examine the desert’s natural habitat, engage in exhilarating desert activities, or unwind by watching a desert sunrise or sunset.

When to go?

The best time for desert adventures in Abu Dhabi is during the winter, which lasts from October to April. To ensure that your trip is enjoyable, the weather throughout the winter months is neither overly humid nor overly hot. Visit the country during its summer months, which are between May and September, if you want to get more reasonable hotel prices.

What to wear?

Before pre-dawn, the weather can be a little chilly, so you should bring a light cardigan. After sunrise, the temperature rises. Dress in long trousers made of fabrics like cotton or linen with t-shirts or tops made of the same materials to be able to manage between both temperatures. The temperature starts to fall in the evenings, so it’s not as hot. You can bundle up against the cool that starts to set in about sundown by dressing in trousers and shirts and carrying a lightweight jacket or sweater.

Where to click nice pictures?

Locations such as Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara will look stunning on your Instagram profile whether you enjoy sharing travel photos there or just want to showcase your gorgeous vacation in the desert. The Abu Dhabi desert offers fantastic photo opportunities everywhere.

Things to Do for a Memorable Vacation in Mui Ne – The Land of Sand Dunes

A stunning beach town in Southeast Vietnam, Mui Ne is a must-visit travel destination for all fun-loving humans. From dune bashing and quad biking to kitesurfing and visiting fishing villages, there is so much to explore in this vivid city!

Watersports

Being a beach town, watersports are naturally one of the best experiences to indulge in. Surfing, kitesurfing, diving, swimming, and kayaking are some famous things to do in Mui Ne. You can easily borrow the gear from the local spots or seek assistance from the staff at Anantara Mui Ne Resort.

Sunrise and Sunset Tours

Catch a desert safari to explore the sand dunes during sunrise or sunset to witness the magical golden hours and the vibrant skies. These views make the most captivating captures for your Instagram and keep you awestruck during the entire tour.

Visit the Fishing Villages

If you seek a taste of the local life, visiting a fishing village will be the best opportunity to observe the villagers, fishermen, and small kids running around. You can bargain a pretty good deal for some fish, and taste some local dishes made with freshly caught fish.

Indulge in Local Cuisines!

Wherever you go, if you haven’t tried the local cuisines, you haven’t completed your stay! Mui Ne offers a wide variety of local food such as pancakes, spring rolls, soups, and peanut milk. The freshly-prepared meals will leave your cravings satisfied, and make you feel wholesome!

Golfing in Doha – Tee Off in Style

Ever heard of all-year-round golf courses? Golfers can rejoice because there are plenty of those in Doha! Read on to uncover what you can expect before your tee-off time in Doha.

Central Accommodation

Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, why not stay at one of the best hotels in Doha? With many choices of resorts, such as Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli offer comfortable and convenient stays so you’re never too far away from a golf course too!

Image via Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli

Beautiful Courses

The natural landscape of Doha makes for some stunning and unforgettable courses. From dunes, dramatic cliff edges and stunning ocean views, a walk around some of these courses will make you want to take up golf just for the views!

Doha Golf Club

Come and take a swing at the premier golf course in the country, the Doha Golf Club! This 18-hole course has been designed in keeping with international standards, and is perfect for both professional and avid golfers alike!

Education City Golf Club

Yet another club to visit is the Education City Golf Club. With plenty of facilities to challenge both professional and amateur players, this club is a must-visit when playing golf in Doha. There are also additional 6- and 9-hole courses for golfers to practice their swings before they tee off.