Author: pushpitha

Had Chao Mai National Park

Covering 231sqkms of Trang provinces infamous coastline Had Chao Mai Marine National Park is home to an abundance of marine life and some endangered species. Staying at a Trang Resort is your best bet for touring the park and enjoying the powdery white beaches of Trang. Offering luxurious family accommodation is the Anantara Sikao Thailand Resort and Spa.

Located on the Andaman coast the luxurious hotel offers modern comforts amidst Thailand’s lush coastlines. Ideal for all holidaymakers the well-appointed 139 rooms, suites, pool villas and family rooms are great for relaxing in when you are not out snorkelling, diving or pampering yourself at the spa. Located right next to Had Chao Mai National park the hotel provides easy access to many other attractions.

Drive along the Andaman coast and drink in the pristine beauty of Trangs white sand beaches and quaint fishing villages. The marine park declared a protected reserve in 1981 is home to mangrove, beach, evergreen and limestone forests which stretch to the mountain tops.

Dotted with beautiful forested islands of Koh Muk, Koh Wan, Koh Chueak, Koh Pling, Kho Chao Mai and Koh Meng the park is 60% water where coral reefs and sea-grass beds thrive, offering shelter to Dugongs, prawns and fish.

The Chao Mai Cave to the south of the park, accessible by boat is a must see for its many chambers, floor to ceiling pillars and beautiful spring located on one of the top chambers.

Pass through a connecting cave and you can enjoy the white sand beaches of Had Yongling and Had Sang while ‘Moragot’ (Emerald Cave) on Muk Island accessible by swimming up in low-tide is so called for its emerald coloured pool. Discover much more as you explore exotic Had Chao Main 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.

Google+

Sunset Hand Line Fishing; experience a traditional Maldivian way of life

For centuries the people of the Maldives have survived off the sea and fishing has been a way of life that has been handed down from generation to generation. The fertile reef system surrounding a number of Maldivian islands makes it a hotspot for avid fishermen looking to catch exotic fish such as sail fish or red snappers. As most forms of commercial fishing is deemed illegal in the Maldives, hand line fishing has proven to be a life line of the Maldivian people, for whom fish is a dietary staple. Resorts such as the Anantara Veli, Maldives or a number of Maldives bungalows offer visitors a chance to try their hand at this time honored tradition.

The most common form of fishing in the Maldives is hand line fishing, or more popularly known as the hook and bait system. This is where the baited hook is dropped to about a foot above the reef, perfect for catching reef fish which are abundant in the Maldives. A number of resorts will even offer to cook up your catch for dinner that day so you can fully enjoy the spoils of your expedition.

It is tradition for hand line fishing to be carried out either on the resort itself, or visitors can rent traditional Bokkuraas that seat up to 3 people. This vessel is the traditional boat of choice used by the Maldivians when hand line fishing and can be rented for a few hours. Hand line fishing is usually carried out in the evening however if the boat departs from the resort early enough, visitors may be able to catch a glimpse of the majestic Maldivian sunset in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Such a breathtaking view is sure to be classified as the experience of a lifetime.

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+

 

Moon Stone Mine

The south of Sri Lanka is so much more than its pristine coastlines and rich colonial history for even the Ceylon gems are part of this remarkable stretch of land. Precious and semi precious, the gems of Sri Lanka has received worldwide acclamation ever since it landed on the engagement ring of the late Princess Diana. Throughout the island there are several mines with a variety of famous gemstones. The mines in Sri Lanka make an interesting attraction since it provides an opportunity to explore the process of gemming from extracting the rock to polishing it to the sparkling stone that it eventually becomes.

Many tourists visiting Sri Lanka choose the south thanks to its fine collection of Sri Lanka beach hotels. If you are staying in one of the Ahungalle hotels a visit to the moonstone mine is an absolute must do. Moonstones are semi precious gems that feel cool and smooth and glows like a moon when polished. The highest concentrations of moonstones are found in the south of Sri Lanka, somewhere between the towns of Ambalangoda and Hikkaduwa. A little moonstone factory has been setup in this location where you can learn everything you need to know about a moonstone. You can even visit a moonstone mine here which is about 6 or 7 m long and watch the entire process from filtering out the stones, cutting them up to polishing them making them all shiny and ready to be sold. Moonstone mining is still performed in a traditional manner. Although machines suck out the water most of the digging is done by hand. Nearly 50 to 100 rough moonstones are mined each day but not all of them are of a saleable quality.

By the side of the factory is a small visitor center where you can learn about the gems in Sri Lanka. If you have taken a liking towards these stones there is even a gift shop where you can purchase anything from jewelry to souvenirs all with your favorite gemstones embedded in them.

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+

Explore Breathtaking Abu Dhabi on an Engaging Horse Ride across the Desert

Visitors in search of a stylish hotel in Abu Dhabi should look no further than the elegant Eastern Mangroves Resort & Spa. Offering guests a scenic desert hideaway with its very own spa facility this luxurious rest is perfect for holidaymakers as well as business travellers.

As a former fishing hamlet that has blossomed in to one of the Emirates’ thriving crown jewels Abu Dhabi is an island that is in touch with its roots as well as its modern day successes. Frequented by globetrotters from around the world the intriguing desert landscapes of this island holiday Mecca is what sets it apart from other nations bordering the Persian Gulf. Although dune bashing, mountain biking and camel rides are the hot pick activities among seasoned visitors to the Islamic nation, the venue also enjoys a reputation as an equestrian hub in the region with its fair share of facilities where one can saddle up.
The most popular riding establishments in Abu Dhabi include the Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club, The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, the Dhabian Equestrian Club and the Al Forsan International Sports Resort while a number of resorts and five star hotels in the island also offer horse riding excursions in some of Abu Dhabi’s most exotic terrains. Desert riding expeditions are the most popular tour packages among tourists as the excursions offer visitors a different vantage point from which to discover Abu Dhabi and its natural beauty.

Morning and evening horse riding excursions are available to those who wish to take in the sights and sounds of the vast desert terrains that dot the city. Setting off with a guide who will keep visitors informed on the geographical and cultural significance of the landscapes on the tour route riders can combine the joy of horse riding and a desert adventure in to one all encompassing tour package. Relaxing as well as invigorating a horse ride across the desert is a once in a lifetime experience that is not just reserved for riders with some level of riding time under their belt but for novices and curious corporate travellers eager to make the most of their free time in Abu Dhabi.

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+

Discover Desert Adventures with Engaging Activities in Sir Bani Yas Island

Travellers in search of well-positioned resorts Abu Dhabi ranks among its most conveniently located rests should look no further than the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Abu Dhabi. Providing guests with a strategic base in the heart of the island this breathtaking resort is suitable for both business travellers and holidaymakers.

As the most popular island of the Desert Islands of Al Ghrabia Sir Bani Yas Island is a dream come true for desert vacationers. Although all eight islands are recreational hubs for the masses Sir Bani Yas Island offers visitors the most diversity in terms of the activities and attractions on offer.

When it comes to desert adventures there’s nothing quite like uncovering wild beasts in a vast natural landscape. Occupying more than half of the island’s landscape the Arabian Wildlife Park is a mammoth wildlife sanctuary that contains more than 10,000 animals within its confines. Roaming free majestic jungle dwellers the likes of Arabian Oryxes, leaping cheetahs, grazing gazelles and giraffes can be spotted on a four wheel drive safari adventure at Sir Bani Yas Island. Wildlife drives on 4x4s are available through variety of tour operators and resorts while other adventure activities include nature walks which explore the mangrove lagoons of the sanctuary while a Wadi walk takes thrill seekers to the rugged terrain atop the salt crested summits of the island’s mountains that occupy the heart of the island. Sand dunes, intriguing minerals, centuries-old fossils and rocky pathways are just some of the highlights of this tour.

Mountain biking is another sporting activity that is a staple among adventure enthusiasts exploring the island as the guided tours encompass wildlife encounters and spectacular scenery in a ride that will test one’s skills and nerve on rocky terrains crisscrossing the island. Kayakers can also paddle along the coastal areas of Sir Bani Yas while snorkellers can engage in an underwater adventure exploring the coral reefs and stunning marine creatures the likes of Arabic Fish and Hammour that inhabit the deep blue waters.

 

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+

Wild Adventures Await in Safari Hub Koh Samui

Travellers on the lookout for a spa hotel in Samui should look no further than the decidedly exotic Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort & Spa. Offering guests a breathtaking base from which to explore all of Samui this stylish rest provides elegant accommodation for holidaymakers from around the world.

Regarded as one of the must-have adventures on a tour of Koh Samui eco safari tours are coveted tour options for visitors touring this charming region of Thailand. As a pristine island blessed with stunning landscapes and natural attributes the beach paradise that is Koh Samui also offers intriguing attractions for nature lovers and curious spirits alike.

Dubbed Island Safari Tours this engaging half day excursion in to the wilder parts of this popular beach hub offers visitors a glimpse of the island’s diverse terrains as well as a taste of local culture. The 6 hour long adventure typically begins in the morning hours or afternoon depending on one’s preference. The safari begins with an unforgettable ride on an elephant through jungle terrain that can only be described as breathtaking. Located at the heart of the island the tropical rainforest is the perfect venue to understand the delicate balance between various natural elements. Insight on how elephants are trained and the special relationship shared between the mahout and the gentle giant is also part of the package which also includes a tour of the Koh Samui countryside on an ox cart. After entering a pastoral village guests will witness cooking demonstrations and taste authentic Thai curries prepared the traditional way. Rubber tapping demonstrations are equally enthralling while visitors can trek through the jungle to reach a nearby waterfall and end their half-day adventure with a scrumptious Thai meal.

Full-day jungle safari excursions on 4×4’s are also available while sea safaris at Angthong National Park and a safari across Khao Sok National Park and scenic Lan Lake are equally popular among seasoned Kos Samui vacationers.

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+

Explore Sanya’s Hidden Treasures on Engaging Day Tours and Activities

Travellers in search of luxury hotel resorts in Sanya should look to Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with stylish rests across the continent this reputed name in hospitality caters to those on business as well as leisure.

Regarded as one of the world’s favorite coastal holiday hubs in China, Sanya is a tropical haven for the masses. Littered with breathtaking coastlines and blessed with sunny skies for most of the year this one- stop vacation heartland is also the perfect base from which to explore Hainan’s other treasures. With a myriad of engaging attractions and activities scattered around the city, day excursions from this popular seaside resort town are a must-have experience for all tourists.
Golfing enthusiasts can head down to the Luhuitou Golf Club and Driving Range which is home to a pristine 18-hole course complete with 7310 yards of green fairways. A gymnasium and dining facilities are also available at the venue where golfers young and old tee-off in the lap of luxury.

Water sports enthusiasts on the other hand can sail around the city’s azure oceans on chartered vessels. Traversing across some of the finest terrains in the South China Sea the sunset sailing tours are particularly spectacular all year round. Snorkelers can discover the vibrant marine life and breathtaking coral reefs on a snorkelling expedition in Sanya while surfers can also let lose among the towering waves of this surfing Mecca. Sea kayaking tours are equally popular among seasoned visitors as paddling across the ocean water allows one to take in the sights on both and land and sea at a leisurely pace.
Nature lovers can trek through the Ganza Ridge Natural Reserve in Sanya and discover the indigenous Li community and their way of life. Hikers and trekking enthusiasts can also explore mangroves and verdant landscapes on a walk across a tropical rainforest while shooting fanatics can try their luck at the International Olympics Shooting Centre in Sanya. Hot spring baths and healing therapies are also available at the famed Sanya Hot Springs.

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+

Nature & Wild Life Activities in Abu Dhabi

Explore the wild side of Sir Bani Yas by indulging in a 4×4 Nature and Wild Life excursion specially organized by one of the finest Abu Dhabi Beach hotels; Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. Book a 4 hour tour and explore nature to your heart’s content. The hotel also provides its guest with learned guides who are more than happy to share all sorts of interesting information about this fascinating natural island.

The Sir Bani Yas Island is located some 100kms south west of Abu Dhabi and makes the largest natural island in the United Arab Emirates. The unparalleled scenic appeal and rich array of flora and fauna makes Sir Bani Yas extremely popular with the tourists. Infact the wild life reserve in Sir Bani Yas is the islands biggest attraction. Established in 1971, the reserve has blossomed into a successful wild life sanctuary that is today home to 1000s of large, free roaming animals and a number of rare species of plants. In addition to the wildlife reserve the park houses an interesting bird sanctuary as well, altogether occupying over half of Sir Bani Yas Island.

Some of the interesting species found in Sir Bani Yas includes the Arabian Oryx, Gazelles, Deers, giraffes and even dolphins and sea turtles. The Arabian Oryx is particularly fascinating as it is one species that has been completely extinct in the wild but in this sanctuary the world’s largest herd of Arabian Oryx can be found. The Bird sanctuary of the Park is home to a number of wild birds, some of which are even indigenous to the island.

Like everything else in the Emirates the park goes all out in ensuring its guests have an excellent time here. Nature is showcased in this reserve through a number of interesting activities such as safaris, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking and snorkeling. The Sir Bani Yas gives you the finest experience that you could have with the Wild life of the Emirates.

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+

Dolphin Quest in Veli

Refresh, rejuvenate and relish your holiday by spending a few nights in one of the finest Maldives Bungalows there is. The Anantara Veli, Maldives is a hotel that redefines luxury altogether. Located along a coral framed island in the South Male Atoll, Anantara Veli is the very definition of a paradise abode. Apart from basking in the sheer beauty of your surroundings and enjoying the comfort and services of the hotel, Anantara Veli is an excellent start off point for a world of adventures. Nature has never been closer to any other resort.

The list of activities available for you to indulge in is endless. Some require more skill and expertise and others not so much. Most of them are water based and require you to feel on your skin the warm waters of the Maldives. However, if you are looking to stay dry while savoring the famous wonders of Maldives; why not take part in the Dolphin Quest.

The Ocean around the many Maldivian Islands is adorned with thousands of dolphins. In fact Dolphins thrive perfectly here and even certain rare varieties have been sighted. Indulge in a Cruise around the lagoon and look out for spinner dolphins. The thrill of sighting these creatures in the midst of one of their acrobatic stunts is truly incomparable. A dolphin cruise never leaves you disappointed for these creatures love the Company of humans and they are never too shy to show off a little bit. The best part about the Dolphin Quest in Veli is that each trip across the ocean includes the company of a learned marine biologist. In addition to providing you with a short lecture on the life of dolphins the biologist is also available to answer any questions and queries that you may have about the thriving marine life of the Maldives.

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+

Abu Dhabi Travelling Tips

The city of Abu Dhabi is the capital and center of governance of the United Arab Emirates. Adorned with the epitome of luxury, Abu Dhabi and its neighboring city Dubai makes perhaps the two most exciting regions in the whole of the Arabian Peninsula. Characterized by thousands of sky high buildings, unparalleled cityscapes, lush manmade gardens and opulent shopping malls, Abu Dhabi is nothing short of paradise for the luxury loving tourist. Almost every hotel in Abu Dhabi mirrors the sheer class that is synonymous to this city’s name. People come from afar to bask in this jewel studded city and the many comforts that it beholds. Perfectly located in close proximity to the many attractions in Abu Dhabi, the Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara is a popular choice for many who visit the city; be it for business or leisure purpose.

Abu Dhabi’s location on the Eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula makes it prone to dry and extremely hot weather conditions; particularly in the months between May and August. When heading out on the many excursions in Abu Dhabi particularly to the deserts or the beaches, sun screen is almost always an absolute must. On many occasions the luxury again comes to rescue Abu Dhabi from the harsh weather conditions as excellent temperature control is found in nearly every enclosed region in the city.
Although far more cosmopolitan than the rest of the Arabian nations put together, a little modesty would be appreciated in regions sensitive to culture or religion. The breathtaking Sheikh Zayed mosque is an excellent example of such a location. One of the most spectacular attractions of the city, the mosque demands its female visitors to be head covered while touring the premises of this place of worship.

Abu Dhabi is a city that enjoys its tourists and in turn tourists fall in love with this city. So hold back nothing and indulge in this city completely and bask in its luxury from dawn till dusk and even beyond.

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+