Author: pushpitha

The Arabian Wild life park in Abu Dhabi

The second largest city and the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, is a host to an array of exciting and extravagant opportunities. The city hosts a range of interesting locations for travellers and locals alike. The Desert Camping visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace and riding the F1 track are among the many activities laid out here. Housing over 2000 well maintained gardens and parks, this city also has 10km which are public beaches. What more could one really ask for!

Amongst all this is the natural island, Sir Bani Yas. This island famed for a lot of things is located 250 km southwest of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It lies 9 km offshore from Jebel Dhanna, which serves as a crossing point to other islands such as Dalma with great historic significance, such as early Islamic structures and structures of the Late Stone Age. The main attraction to the island is the Arabian Wildlife Park, which is dubbed the ‘ark.’ This is so because it is home to a variety of rare and well preserved wildlife of more than 10,000 free roaming animals that may not be found anywhere else. This takes up almost half of the island and houses indigenous animals to the Arabian Peninsula. Among these are the Arabian Oryx, Barbary sheep, and the Sand Gazelle. They also have free roaming predators such as the cheetah and hyena. An attractive feature is that visitors are allowed to get up close with the giraffes’ on the island, at eye-level, upon a platform is made from recycled materials.

Staying on the island is a must-do to explore this hidden treasure properly. Check out villas in Abu Dhabi which host a great stay, giving both comfort and luxury. Be sure to check out a spa resort Abu Dhabi where you can bask in the sunlight and view the sandy shores and the mangrove lagoon right from the comfort of your own space. The resort is inspired by natural surroundings, designed for tranquility, the resort has tales of the Arabic fishing and diving villages too. The island resort hosts a saltwater lagoon and fully equipped gym facilities on top of everything else that contributes towards the comfort and the wellbeing of the vistors. Anantara Al Yamm resort has an exceptional spa that poses as one of the main features of the resort. Check out the two day spa packages on offer and do not miss out on the signature treatments such as the Arabic Massage and the Sands of Time. Staying here will not only give you a spectacular view of what the island has to offer, but also a great chance to rejuvenate and reinvent yourself.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Snorkelling in Unawatuna

Unawatuna is a coastal town situated in the South of Sri Lanka that has long been popular with those interested in marine life as well as the adventurous visitors wanting to try their hand at diving and snorkelling. Lately however the town has acquired a name for its weekend parties that are highly in demand.

Although situated next to the historic town of Galle with its harbour, the waters in and around Unawatuna are protected by unique twin reefs. One reef shaped as a bay is protected by another shallow reef. This feature ensures that reef fish and marine life attracted to the reefs are commonly found and the calm waters caused due to the reef allow for excellent snorkelling opportunities.

There are many beaches in Unawatuna each of which offers its own unique type of underwater world for the underwater enthusiasts. The Unawatuna Bay along which most of the hotels and home stays are hubs of activity and the PADI dive centre is one of the favourite places that see amateurs and professionals return all year around. The Jungle Beach although somewhat secluded is also quite popular and is ideal for those wanting the best out of snorkelling. Bright yellow, blue and camouflaged black and brown fish of all shapes and sizes and other sea creatures jostle together in a colourful symphony that is a wonder to witness.

The months from October to April are usually the best for visibility; however the ideal warm water temperatures mean that snorkelling can be done during other months as well. Taking a trained expert with you especially on these occasions is advisable due to the sudden rains and winds that the monsoon seasons can cause.

Snorkelling gear can easily be obtained either for purchase or rent from any of the diving schools that line up the coastal areas. Although you may visit Sri Lanka with the idea of enjoying water sports, there may be other activities you would like to pursue. For this type of discerning traveller there are many sri lanka tour packages to choose from. Well known agents or tour operators such as Shanti Travel Sri Lanka are able to balance your interests and match you to an ideal tour with their sri lanka tailor made tours that will complete your stay in Unawatuna.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Water Sports in Maldives

With seemingly endless azure waters stretching far into the horizon, the Maldives provides the perfect escape in which to enjoy a thrilling range of action packed water sports. The easiest way to enjoy these activities is by staying at Maldives resorts that offer water sports such as Kurumba Maldives. One of the leading luxury hotels Maldives has to offer, this property is an ideal pale from which to have fun in the surf.

Snorkelling is a popular water sport that can be enjoyed by the entire family. The waters around the islands are teeming with coral and marine life and give you the chance to discover a colourful world quite unlike any other. Those wanting to go deeper can try scuba diving which can be learnt at one of the many PADI certified schools here. Adrenaline junkies also have plenty of water sports to choose from such as waterskiing, windsurfing, jet skiing, surfing, and kite-surfing. For a truly unique thrill you can even try parasailing which will take you on an unforgettable ride as you soar up above in the sky.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Escape To The Hills in Bali

While Bali may be well known for its sun kissed beaches and thrilling water sports, those venturing inland will find hilly landscapes that offer a memorable outdoor adventure. Those in search of Bali hotels that can be used as a base for such excursions can consider Anantara Seminyak Bali. This luxurious Bali hotel provides a great starting point for your excursions.

The island of Bali is blessed with stunning natural scenery that can be experienced while trekking the hills and valleys. These lush green landscapes offer the perfect escape and provide a sanctuary in which to get away from it all. As you wonder these areas you are bound to come across picturesque paddy fields and old villages where traditions are still followed. Best of all, the hills in Bali give you a chance to commune with nature and discover why this island is referred to as the ‘Island of Gods’.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Bicycle tour to Cam Kim Island

Holidaying in Vietnam? Then you must make a trip to Cam Kim Island to feast your eyes on the numerous woodcarving shops that scatter the area. Get a bike and head out past the charm of corn and rice fields that will give you the essence of the island lifestyle. Before embarking on a truly memorable bicycle trip, select a Hoi An spa resort to reside in. Out of any Hoi An hotel the Anantara Hoi An Resort will provide you with the flavours of Vietnamese culture.

Meander along bamboo bridges and welcome the ambience of coconut trees and sunshine that will thrill you and entice you to discover much more of this fascinating isle. Stop at any of the local shops where you can buy a wood carving or a colourful sedge mat that will be a perfect souvenir to take back home.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Elephant Mountain

The Mountains of Vietnam are fit for the most soothing poetry. The aura of peace that it emulates makes it one of the most soothing attractions in the whole nation. Its popularity has been recognised and many resorts and bungalows have been built in such a way that a good mountainous view is guaranteed. There is one particular mountain that boasts a fascinating legend in addition to its unmatched beauty; it is the Elephant Mountain.

Many years ago there lived a man by the name of Mr. Lang. He was the Chief of the Lach community and was known for his kind heart, his intelligence and his bravery. His popularity grew the day he conquered two wild elephants that came from the village of La Ngu Ha. These elephants were actually disturbed creatures but after coming back with Lang to the village they transformed themselves and through his inspiration became better animals. One day Lang rescued the young maiden Biang who was actually the daughter of the Chief of the Sre community. Instantly the 2 fell in love and the entire village rooted for their big day. Especially the 2 elephants became very close to Lang and Biang. However sadly that big day never came as the 2 lovers came from different communities who did not believe in binding each other. The heartbroken lovers headed to the highest point of a mountain in the village and grieved till one day their souls fled the earth. The elephants upon seeing their lifeless bodies sat next to them and never moved which eventually led to their death as well. Legends has it that they became this 1753m mountain; hence the name Elephant Mountain.

The Elephant Mountain boasts some of the most breathtaking sceneries of Haiphong. During early mornings and late nights, coolness blankets the region. The location is famous for those seeking inspiration, just gazing at it can carry your burdens away. When you plan to visit the Elephant Mountain choose good hotels in Vietnam to come home to. The Harbour View Hotel Haiphong Vietnam is the finest of all Haiphong hotels as it is known for its luxurious ambience and unmatched views.

A day at the elephant orphanage in Pinnawala

Elephants are magnificent creatures that have roamed our lands for centuries. To witness them in their natural habitat, one should head over to the elephant orphanage in Pinnawala located in the Kegalle District. The sanctuary affords care and protection for orphaned wild elephants that are found in the nearby jungles. Indulge in air taxi Sri Lanka of which Cinnamon Air, operators of air taxi tours Sri Lanka offers ample opportunities for travellers to head over to the premise.

Large crowds of locals and foreigners are seen during the feeding of elephant calves and bathing sessions at the Maha Oya which are the major attractions at the orphanage. Pinnawala is home to over 70 elephants and acts as a breeding ground where some of the elephants are later handed over to private owners and Buddhist temples. Experience the majesty of these beasts at their ‘home away from home’ in Pinnawala.

Rollerball Zorbing in Phuket

Spice up your holiday in Thailand by engaging in some zorbing or hill rolling aimed at giving you an adrenaline rush you’ve never experienced before. Whether it’s the sensation of being rolled over or rolling over your friends stretched out on the track downhill, this action packed experience is sure to leave you in awe. Of the many retreats in Thailand one should select Thanyapura which is a sports hotel Thailand that provides a complete rollerball zorbing experience for those in search of a thrilling escape.

Capture the beautiful vistas of Patong Bay as you descend the hillsides that are infested with sharp curves and smooth paths to add to the excitement of spending your holiday by bouncing in a giant plastic ball.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Uncover the Wild Side of the Desert on a Kayaking Tour of Abu Dhabi

Often described as one of the Middle East’s premier holiday destinations, the desert landscapes of Abu Dhabi serve as the unlikely playground for kayakers from around the world. Offering kayaking enthusiasts a unique terrain to engage in their beloved sport while simultaneously discovering the country, the intriguing tours made available only recently in the desert heartland are some of its most attractive local excursion options. Home to more than 213 islands one could hardly underestimate Abu Dhabi’s potential as a kayaking hub in the region although its resources in this regard have only recently been discovered and explored by tour operators and tourists.

Blessed with 72 km2 of captivating coastlines littered with mangrove forests the kayaking excursions available in the country are mainly conducted in the marshy areas. Considered the second biggest ecosystem of natural mangroves in the Persian Gulf, only second to Iran, the vast landscapes crisscrossed with water channels affords novice and expert kayakers a wealth of experiences in one tour. A typical kayaking excursion can include up to four participants who can set off to the marshy waters equipped with plenty of sun block, drinking water and life jackets. Expert tour guides are on hand to navigate the labyrinth of mangroves on the coastline which are littered with local marine life and exotic bird species. The two hour excursion takes paddlers across breathtaking lagoons, steep channels and tree laden canopies in an eco-friendly encounter that lets one discover the hidden beauty of Abu Dhabi. Island tours are also available via kayak operators that delve in to the outer reaches of the tiny islets dotting the coastline. Chance meetings with dolphins, dugongs and even sea turtles are not uncommon in these parts where guests can also disembark to explore the inner landscapes of the islands laden with crab and other crustacean habitats.

Kayak fishing is another activity on board a kayaking tour of Abu Dhabi. Trawl fishing and bottom fishing are the two techniques used to fish on kayaks here although trawling is known to yield a larger catch.

Travellers in search of luxury UAE hotels will find plenty of elegant options with establishments under the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East group. Offering visitors a wide variety of Middle East hotels in various tourist Meccas across the region, this reputed name in hospitality pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable desert vacations.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Orana Wildlife Park

A mere 10 minutes drive from Christchurch Airport, the Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand’s only open range zoo that serves as an idyllic destination for locals and tourists to meet some of the country’s most fascinating and talked about species of wildlife. Founded in the year 1976 and managed by the Orana Wildlife Trust, ‘Orana’ which is the Maori word for ‘welcome’ covers an impressive 80 hectares of thick vegetation that affords its inhabitants an environment that resembles their natural habitat. Crowds are known to flock to its premises to catch a glimpse of the country’s national bird which is the kiwi along with other species of birds and reptiles.

Those on holiday in Christchurch would do well to schedule a trip to Orana Wildlife Park which is home to over 400 mammals from 70 varied species. A feature of the area is that it consists of banks, streams and moats that act as barriers for those wanting to see these animals in a natural way. The animals found here originate from New Zealand itself while the rest represent the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia. Ideal for a day out with the family, the park will leave kids in awe while offering adults valuable information on some of the world’s most treasured and sought after animals.

For the ultimate wildlife adventure explore Orana’s behind the scene tours that will take you up close with a range of predators that roam separate sections of this enchanting landscape. Hop on board a special vehicle that will lead you to the premises of the ‘King of the Jungle’. Witness these majestic creatures feeding as part of the park’s ‘Lion Encounter’. Why stop there? Select the ‘Meet a Cheetah’ tour where you can marvel at the fastest land carnivore; the cheetah. You are also offered the luxury of feeding the park’s Sumatran tigers and journeying onto the Black & White Lemur Island where you can offer each playful little lemur their afternoon tea. In terms of an educational centre, the Zoo School provides students with interactive learning sessions administered by its on-site teachers.

Searching for the perfect place to stay? Then choose from a luxurious selection of New Zealand hotels of which Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ would be ideal. Pamper yourself in the warmth of these Dunedin hotels before heading over for a once in a lifetime adventure at New Zealand’s very own Orana Wildlife Park.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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