Sumaira Narayan | The Adventure Travel Site

Tiger Beach Ocean Park

The variety of vacations that one could experience in China is diverse. For historical lovers, there would be a range of impressive monuments and locations that displays the country’s history, which dates back to its pre-historic era. For those who would like to explore the lifestyle of the Chinese people, the options are ample as well. For retail therapy, there would be many places that a shopaholic could go to when they are in need of an exhilarating shopping expedition. Apart from these elements, the country has many scenic locations for nature lovers to indulge themselves. Hills with water smoothly flowing down, rare stones and green mountains that spread for miles around, crystal-clear turquoise water and the perfectly pristine sky is the ideal description of the location of the Dalian Tiger Beach Ocean Park. The winding soft sandy beach spreads for more than four thousand meters, giving the visitors ample space to enjoy the beautiful coastline sights.
This area is a natural sanctuary to a huge variety of fauna species. White whales, sea lions, and pigeons coming from the North Pole choose this beautiful place to spend their time; thereby giving the visitors the perfect opportunity to witness them all in one place. The world’s largest and China’s only Polar Museum can be seen in this park. Apart from this, the Coralarium, Asia’s largest marine life museum, is also located here. Be fascinated by the giant granite sculptures of tigers that can be seen here.

There is a Marine Animal Hall within the park that holds the largest volume of water that can be seen in any marine park around the world. This consists of 3 floors, where sea creatures from around the world are displayed. The wide range of colourful marine life would soothe any mind. This would be a perfect spot to bring your kids to keep them entertained. The uniqueness of this amazing aquarium is the 360-degree aqua experience, which would allow the visitor to witness life in water from every angle.
Spend some quality time at this park where nature is at its best. The Somerset Harbour Court Dalian is home to some of the finest Luxury Serviced Apartments Dalian has to offer its discerning travellers looking for quality accommodation options. A Serviced Apartment Dalian features here is truly luxurious and offers modern amenities to suit all your needs. Ideal for leisure and business travellers, these apartments are the perfect locale to indulge in the pleasures of a private serviced apartment.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+

Qingdao Olympic Theme Park

Qingdao is a lively port city located on China’s eastern coast and one of its most iconic locales is the Qingdao Olympic Theme Park, an Olympic memorabilia haven. To discover more of the city’s fascinating sights, park yourself at a Qingdao hotel such as the Copthorne Hotel Qingdao which offers you convenient transport links to the theme park as well as other intriguing attractions. Featuring luxury interiors and stellar hospitality, this quality hotel in Qingdao is the perfect option for holiday-makers and executive visitors alike. Without a doubt, Qingdao is synonymous with Tsingtao Brewery, but visitors can also enjoy fresh Tsingtao brews at the Beer Garden at Qingdao Olympic Theme Park at the Beer Garden. This unique pub offers you the chance to sip a cool pint whilst soaking in the Olympic spirit and enjoying a game or competition featured on the large TVs at this friendly venue with a distinctive sports bar feel. Ensconced within the Olympic Sailing Centre is the Olympic Theme Park, where visitors can participate in various activities that summon the camaraderie and grandeur of the world’s most famous international sports competition. A prominent feature in the park is the Olympic Torch, extending tall and proud to an impressive 6 metres, and flanked by the Olympic and national flags on two sides, which makes it a popular tourist spot to click a few memories to take home. The park also offers a variety of interactive Olympic features, and kids will enjoy partaking in the tennis and table tennis computer romps. Or don the Olympic uniform and gold medal to stand on the podium to the roaring millions cheering your victory. Many visitors feel the spirit of an Olympic win at this feature, and it always boasts long lines so get there early and be prepared to wait your victory. The park is also home to an international sculpture tour exhibition, which has toured cities across the globe, and its prestigious creations are a glorious sight to behold, featuring more than 100 pieces from 90 names around the world.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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Minneriya National Park

Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1938 and then upgraded to a Wildlife Park in 1997, Minneriya National Park houses the historic Minneriya reservoir that dates from the 3rd century CE. During the area’s dry season, the park is a very special place as elephant herds from Matale, Trincomalee and Polonnaruwa districts come to enjoy grazing and quenching their thirst here. Together with two other reservoirs close to the park, Minneriya forms one of Important Bird Areas in Sri Lanka.

While the park’s diverse range of large and small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, fish and butterflies is undoubtedly interesting to all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the most iconic attraction is the large number of elephants that congregate here, which is known as the ‘ elephant gathering’ and this is globally celebrated as one of the largest gatherings of mammals, specifically Asian Elephants, in the wild. The magnet that sets off this seasonal movement of elephants is the succulent grasses on the dry parts of the reservoir bed and the easy access to water. The ‘gathering’ takes place from mid-July and lasts until end-October, but peaks in August and September. The best time to view the elephants is in the evening when they emerge from the surrounding jungle in little groups that slowly forms a large herd that is sometimes said to number 300. Not only can visitors have a rare sighting of elephants in family groups, but they are also seen at their natural best, gamboling and cavorting in the water.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the park’s other attractions, endemic species such as the purple-faced langur and toque macaque, the Sri Lankan leopard, the Sri Lankan sloth bear, the gray slender loris and many other endangered and endemic species that are the park’s other inhabitants are of interest as well. For fervent birders, the host of large water birds as well as migrants and many residents that are found in and around the Minneriya reservoir makes a visit here truly worthwhile. Flocks of cormorants, pelicans, grey herons and other water birds are busy foraging for food around the water while jungle fowl, parrots, babblers, bulbuls and other endemic varieties favour the forest and scrub areas around the reservoir. Crocodiles, pythons and water monitors are among the reptiles that prey on the animals coming to the reservoir for water. Combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, viewing the wildlife in the park is truly an exceptional experience.

To discover these and more natural treasures on the island, take advantage of some well-tailored holiday packages Sri Lanka has to offer its visitors for a stimulating and pleasurable travel experience. Shanti Travel Sri Lanka is a renowned travel company, which offers some competitive Sri Lanka tour packages that enable visitors to explore the country’s culture, heritage and the beauty of its landscapes.

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Siam Park City

The city of Bangkok enjoys a prestigious reputation as Thailand’s resplendent capital city, richly saturated with history and gleaming with the five-star status of an international metropolis. Business or pleasure – whatever brings you to the city will be enhanced when you invest in one of the world-class Sukhumvit apartments featured at the exclusive Somerset Sukhumvit Thonglor Bangkok. Situated in the stylish Sukhumvit district, this quality example of accommodation Bangkok has to offer its visitors aims to pamper and pleasure all guests. To make the most of a stay here, visit the vibrant Siam Park City, the city’s oldest theme park that boasts the world’s largest man-made beach in the form of its magnificent wave-pool, which has earned accolades and a Guinness World Record. Boasting some of the largest rides in the region, the park sees annual visitors in excess of 2 million, all craving some theme park fun with family and friends. Sprawling over 120 hectares, it is the largest theme and water park in the Southeast Asian region. The park’s four regions, Fantasy World, X-Zone, Family World and Small World ensure complete enjoyment for people of all ages. Get the heart pumping with the Vortex, Log Flume, Giant Drop, Top Spin and Mega Dance, to name a few options for adrenaline junkies. Take a boat or trip journey into the heart of Africa, where you’ll see animatronic tigers and elephants as well as King Kong, or embark on a Jurassic jeep ride and discover the fascinating dinosaurs that used to populate the world. For a few intense splashes, ride Talay Krung Thep, the world’s largest wave pool with waterfalls and rock pools, or laze away on the Lazy River, which flows through the entire park. Guaranteeing hours of fun for the whole family, Siam Park City is a must-visit site in Bangkok.

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Sand Boarding

Sand boarding is almost exactly like snowboarding except that it is done in the desert instead of snow-topped mountains. Although not as popular as snowboarding, sand boarding is quickly catching on as a fun recreational activity. It is a highly thrilling sport and riders can reach speeds in excess of sixty miles per hour, all on a simple board made out of fibre glass and wood. Unlike snowboarding, one can go sand boarding at any time of the year and good locations are easier to find. After all, it can be carried out at any place with large dunes, be it a desert or a beach.

Those interested in trying out the sport should try the Middle East region. It is, aptly enough, one of the best places in the world to try out this adventure sport. Although popular in countries throughout the Middle East, sand boarding has found a special place in Oman. The most popular spots in the country are the Bousher Dunes in Muscat and the Wahiba Sands in Sifah. One need not be an expert to ride here as there are dunes of different sizes and inclines found here.

Other popular activities in Oman include quad biking, dune bashing, mountain climbing and desert trekking. Dune bashing is an activity where people drive around sand dunes in four wheel drive trucks – it is a little scarier than it sounds as some dunes can be quite steep. Tourists visiting Oman should also think of taking a safari on camel back and spending a night at a Bedouin camp. Staying at a Bedouin camp is the best way to experience the desert at night and enjoy the famous Arabian hospitality.

There are many places in Oman that provide facilities for adventure desert activities. However, one can minimise the hassles of finding a good one by staying at proper Oman hotels that already come with such facilities. The Desert Nights Camp is one such hotel in Oman that provides facilities for a variety of desert-related activities such as trekking and quad biking. The accommodation on offer is stellar and guests get to sleep in large Arabian-styled tents that come with air conditioning. It is truly an excellent place to stay.

Blanco Renaissance Museum

The Ubud region in Bali is home to a decadent array of unique cultural treasures undiscovered anywhere else in the world. For a true immersion into authentic Ubud culture, a visitor should invest in Ubud accommodation that blends the best of traditional and international trappings for a superb example of Balinese hospitality. The Alila Ubud is an elegantly-appointed property that serves its guests with the contemporary amenities set within traditional interiors for a one-of-a-kind Ubud hotel experience. No visit to Ubud is complete without a tour of the iconic Blanco Renaissance museum, a cultural coalescence that takes place at the confluence of two sacred rivers. The museum captures the life of one of Bali’s most famous expats, Don Antonio Blanco, whose unique paintings that drew from a European heritage to effectively evoke Balinese subjects, made him a household name in Bali, and in fact, in the entire country. A Spaniard brought up in Manilla, who was educated in the United Sates, and later married and settled down in Indonesia, Don Blanco was Manila’s original poster child for diversity. His paintings drew from his fascination with the female form and his exquisite paintings are an intriguing mix of fantasy and erotica designed to enchant the mind and titillate the senses. The museum mansion was built to capture Don Blanco’s love for Bali and it is a true work of esoteric art in and of itself, as it is a spiritual fantasyland that employs elements from Balinese spirituality. Two winding marble staircases represent the apparent duality of the world, and three floors representing the earthly realm, the middle realm and the heavens provide a playground for gods, humans and beasts. The topmost floor rightly holds all of Don Blanco’s artwork while the second showcases his poetry. The mansion’s interiors are ornate in nature and are windowless, although a spectacular stained-glass dome draws in ample amounts of natural light. The mansion complex also boasts beautiful manicured gardens and even a gorgeous family temple contained within the complex. Visitors can marvel at the paintings hung for display, purchase some souvenirs and knick-knacks at the quaint little boutique, and later on, grab a delicious bite at the onsite café that serves a blend of exquisite European and Asian cuisine. An exquisite feast for the senses, this renaissance museum is guaranteed to mesmerize you in body, mind and soul.

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Climbing Doi Inthanon Mountain in Thailand

Chiang Mai is a rare gem of the Southeast Asian landscape, offering unique facets of discovery for the cultural treasure hunter. Discover the amazing sights along the Chao Phraya River, one of the major arteries of trade and tourism in Bangkok, via a Bangkok cruise tour that is ideal for some river exploration, and will take you all the way to Chain Mai, in the verdant Northern part of the country. Discover the delights afforded by Anantara Cruises Thailand, which is one company offering some of the best Bangkok cruises for you to discover the natural wonders along the verdant riverscape. While you’re in the city and craving a break from all the steel and concrete, take a day trip and climb up the Doi Inthanon, the highest peak in Thailand, set in the midst of a scenic national park. But this isn’t as labourious as it sounds, as there are many options for transport to the top. A public bus will take you up the well-built road as will many private tours, or you could even rent a car, which may be the best option as you can take your time and enjoy the various sights on the way to the top, for around USD 60-70. The park boasts a number of waterfalls that demand the nature lover’s attention, two of which are the Sirithan and the Wachirathan waterfalls. Wachirathan also has restroom stops, restaurants and a car park. Two unique sights are also the two royal chedis or stupas built in honour of the King and Queen of Thailand, to celebrate their 60^th birthday anniversaries, which fell in 1987 and 1992, respectively. Inner shrines and beautiful wall murals await visitors to the royal tributes. The summit of the mountain is close by, and you can drive almost to the top, if you wanted. Take your picture underneath the “highest point in Thailand” sign, but remember to be quick about it, because there’s always a long line of people wanting the same privilege! Follow the winding path past the sign into the temperate forest, which will take you to a quaint little rangers hut and a souvenier boutique, where you can purchase some knickknacks to commemorate your visit to the summit in the form of hats, t-shirts, magnets, etc. If you want to tread off the beaten path, take a short hike from here through a wooden walkway, which will evoke a sense of timeless wonder as you tread a path flanked by mosses, lichens and aged fern trees. A short walk will take you back to the visitor’s car park as you bid Doi Inthanon goodbye.

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Reef Casting In Maldives

The archipelago of Maldives consists of over a thousand islands that were formed many centuries ago. The islands started off as volcanoes of various sizes. As time progressed, the volcanoes were overrun with coral. Eventually the volcanoes receded, leaving behind the coral formations that became the world-famous holiday spot. The islands of Maldives are completely made of coral and this not only explains the pure white sandy beaches, but also the profusion of life found around the coast. The extensive reef system that surrounds Maldives makes it the perfect home for a variety of strange and exotic aquatic life.

Maldives is home to many popular water related activities and fishing is one of them. Boasting an amazing marine biodiversity, the country is a haven for professional and amateur anglers alike. Visitors looking for a relaxing way to spend the day will definitely enjoy a spot of fishing in this unique locale. Reef casting is one type of fishing that has been gaining popularity in recent times. For this, one needs to hire a boat to get close to the reefs. Try hiring a dhoni, which is a traditional Maldivian seafaring vessel.

Fishing in the reefs is the best way to capture certain fish like the Giant Trevally Jack, which can grow nearly two metres in length. Other popular species that can be found near the reefs include Bluefin Trevally Jack, snappers, barracuda, and different types of groupers. Remember, reef casting is a little tricky and requires some patience. Anglers looking to tackle bigger game can try deep sea fishing. There are many operations in Maldives that can arrange fishing expeditions. Not only do they provide the boats and the necessary equipment but can also offer tips on the best fishing spots around.

Tourists can enjoy fishing and a whole host of other activities at the Adaaran Meedhuppary, one of the best Maldives hotels in the country. This quality Maldives resort provides plush accommodation and a range of services, including spa treatments. It is the ideal place to stay, whether one is planning on having an excitement-filled vacation spent trying out various water sports or a quiet time lounging in the sun.

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Yala Safari

The expansive Yala National Park has the distinction of being the second-largest of the national parks of Sri Lanka and it attracts the highest number of visitors. This renowned wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 979 sq km and was designated as a national park in 1938. It is well known for its beauty and the sheer diversity of the wild animals the park features. Yala has been portrayed in many documentaries including those of the Discovery Channel and the BBC. The terrain of the park consists mainly of shrub jungle dotted with rocky outcrops that are found scattered throughout the area. A number of freshwater and saltwater lagoons form part of the park. As you might expect in a tropical wildlife sanctuary, Yala offers a breathtaking variety of wild animals including elephants, leopards, sambhur, sloth bear, spotted deer, mongoose, jackals, wild buffalos and monkeys such as the macaque and langur.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s dream with as many as 130 varieties of bird life having been recorded in the locale. Well-known avian species which are often spotted at Yala include sandpipers, black-necked storks, egrets, pelicans, parakeets, bulbuls and more. A local highlight is the proud peacock, readily seen in the park in all its glory. Additionally, you will see marine turtles nesting the along the coastline areas.

To obtain a genuine glimpse into this vast wildlife sanctuary and view its luxuriant flora and fauna, there is no better choice than to take a safari. Rugged off-road vehicles will take you deep into the parkland, and the experienced drivers will make sure you visit the areas where wildlife is abundant. There are several safari options available; an interesting choice would be a daybreak safari early in the morning or one at dusk, as these are the times when creatures like sloth bears and leopards come out of their lairs and roam about. Other options are half day or full day safari excursions where you will see many different kinds of animals and birds.

Knowledgeable travellers desiring an investment in Sri Lanka car rental or reliable airport transfers Sri Lanka will find an outstanding choice in Malkey Rent A Car, a trustworthy and well-reputed travel specialist.

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Laem Son National Park

Laem Son National Park on Thailand’s west coast is noted for having a 100 km coastline, which is the country’s longest protected shoreline. The coastal section of the park extends from the Ao Ang Mountain in the north to Pak Triam Mountain in the south. Among the 315 sq km park’s many facets are beaches, coral reefs, sea grass beds, estuarine mudflats, mangrove forests, rainforests and 20 islets. The dominant type of vegetation, though, comes in the form of mangrove forests. The islets are all clustered along the shore of the park with the furthest being just 12 km away. All the islets are unspoiled and few have any permanent habitation. Above the high water mark of many of the coastal islets are beaches fringed by casuarinas, the dominant tree species along the coast.

It is also home to several species of birds that numbered 138 at the last count, fish, prawns, oysters and 30 types of mammals including the pangolin, tree shrew, crab eating macaques, lesser mouse deer, giant squirrel, banded langur, wild boar, yellow Rajah Rat, bush tailed porcupine, munjak, pig and stump tailed macaques. For bird-lovers, the best time to visit the park is between December and February. In recognition of the importance of its wetlands, the national park became a designated Ramsar Site in 2002.

Among the pristine and isolated beaches on the islets, the most accessible is the beach Hat Bang Ben, a long sandy stretch fringed by casuarinas. It is said to be safe for swimming year round. Several of the islets can be seen from the beach. During low tide some islands just across from Hat Bang Ben can be reached on foot. Most of the islets have forested hills, reefs for swimming and snorkeling, sandy or pebbled beaches and camping grounds. The bigger islets have minuscule populations, agricultural land and interesting terrestrial fauna that include wild pigs, horn bills, monkeys and snakes. Across from Hat Bang Beng is Hat Laem Son, which has a deserted beach. Sea turtles lay eggs on Hat Praphat’s casuarinas lined beach. The islets of Piak Nam Lai and Thao are famous for their crab eating long tailed macaques. Accessibility to the park by road is somewhat limited unless a private vehicle or other form of private transportation is hired. However, there are regular boats that run from Saphan Plaa to Ko Phyam pier every two hours during the high tourist season. Long-tail boats can also be hired to access the park and the islets.

In a famed location that has inspired many a movie and song, the Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa provides its guests with many of the elements that have caught the imagination of visitors to the area. As one of prominent Koh Phangan resorts guests enjoy a range of high quality facilities and amenities, and it is one of the popular Koh Phangan hotels that provide serenity for a truly relaxing holiday.