Category: Land Extreme Sports

Adventures on the Ayung River

Bali, an island province of the Southeast Asian nation of Indonesia, is one of the most beautiful retreats in the region. Known for its splendid beaches, lovely lush forests, many archeologoical and cultural landmarks, and recreational attractions, Bali is also one of Indonesia’s most famous tourist destinations. Towns such as Ubud, Semiyak, Kuta, and Nusa Dua, are the island’s hottest locations for tourists. A great Ubud hotel that offers tranquil accommodation and a host of leisure and recreational facilities is the Alila Ubud Bali.

The longest river flowing through the island of Bali is the Ayung River. Originating from the Northern mountain ranges, this 75km long river flows close to Ubud and is a source of life and nourishment to the luscious forests in the area. The Ayung River, whose banks are known for its beautiful forest scenery, is also a top attraction for those seeking some exciting and adventure, as the river is a great location for white water rafting.

The Ayung River boasts of many Class II and Class III rapids, and its pristine and safe waters make it ideal for white water rafting. Unlike most other white water rivers, the Ayung River is not seasonal; meaning rafting enthusiasts can surf through these waters at any time of the year. The rapids, while promising loads of excitement and adventure can be enjoyed by both veterans and amateurs. There are many rafting centers around the area that will be more than happy to rent out internationally approved equipment and trained guides so that your adventure of the river will be that much more enjoyable. The stunning scenic beauty of the river, its hidden waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the luscious greenery of the river banks, make rafting through the Ayung an adventurous experience you are unlikely to ever forget!

Another great adventure activity is elephant trekking. You can explore the wonders of the banks of the Ayung River on top of a majestic elephant, which is sure to be an exciting and extraordinary experience.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Baruna Dive Centre

Bali, an island province like no other, is the very definition of a beach holiday. The island’s popularity as a tourist destination, in recent times, has led to a mushrooming of restaurants, bars, shopping malls and beach activities. Bali family resorts are also in demand with more and more families looking to travel and spend quality time together. To get the very best of a tropical getaway, the view must include: sun, sea and sand. A few luxuries should be on hand like an in house spa and gym, so where better to stay than Kuta, the island’s most exciting beach. The Holiday Inn Resort Baruna Bali is a great option to consider here.

The Baruna Dive Centre is where you need to go for all the heart pumping, adrenalin flowing action. You can take a drift dive, a shore dive, a night dive, a boat dive or a wreck dive. Each experience is thrilling in a different way and gives you a chance to get a closer look at the colourful, local marine life and even learn some interesting historical facts about old ships that now lie on the ocean floor. Snorkelling tours and diving safaris are also available for those keen to explore the very best underwater sites in depth. Dive courses certified by PADI and SSI, are also available for those pursing diving as a serious area of interest. Inquire about speciality courses that include navigation, search and recovery, waves, tides and currents, equipment techniques, underwater digital photography and more. Single dive prices start at $60.

The centre is based in Amed, on the north east coast of Bali. Excursions come with instruction in three different languages: English, Spanish and French. Diving and snorkelling equipment can be rented in house. Also remember to collect a free photo of yourself on the dive before leaving!

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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White Water Rafting in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand and is a mountainous region with the added beauty of untamed rivers. It undoubtedlypossesses splendor and charm but more importantly it facilitates adventures of all kinds, predominantly white water rafting. Hotels in Chiang Mai are aplenty, but Anantara Chiang Mai Resort & Spa is heads above the rest. It captures the beauty of the old city and the picturesque landscape while also making it so much easier to hop into a raft for some fun on the snake-like rivers of Chiang Mai.

Plan your visit intelligently. The best months to go white water rafting in this area would be from March to July. When the rains pour mercilessly from August to October the waters become more menacing. It would be best to give priority to the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

You would hardly need to plan your adventure if you visit Siam River Adventures. Co, Ltd. Taking you down the rivers Mae Taeng, Mae Kok and Nam Wa, be ready to be pushed around and to take treacherous turns. The trees by the rivers watch eagerly as you push your way through, but make it a point to stare back, as nature would reveal itself in a multitude of ways on your expedition.

On full moon nights, as the light of the moon stretches across the waters and the trees seem eerily still, you can plan an adventure. Siam River Adventures prepares to exhaust and energize your being throughout the day. Once you plan your excursion on a day of the full moon, you would have to whitewater raft throughout the day and late into the night. Just when you think it would be too tiring, it’s best to add thatthe adventure includes a buffet of healthy Thai delicacies, a private jungle camp and a warming riverside bonfire. These elements certainly complete the package and lure you to the waters and the surprises in store.

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+

Tandem Skydiving in Christchurch

Looking across the horizon and seeing nothing but an endless expanse of blue. The wind whips at your hair. Clouds drift across, lazily floating by to no place in particular. You look below from your lofty perch and between the wisps of fluffy white you see what could be another realm; an enchanting place of emerald landscapes, snow-capped mountains and crystal clear waters. Take a minute to soak up the view from 12,000 feet above the ground. And then you leap. Not quite a leap of faith as it were but one which you trust the person strapped to your back and the amazingly simple, yet lifesaving device known as the parachute; welcome to the world of tandem skydiving in Christchurch!

So first things first; if you are heading to this part of New Zealand planning to experience the pure adrenaline rush of skydiving then make sure you find centrally located accommodation to base yourself at. Motels in Christchurch such as Country Comfort Belmont Christchurch make a great option when it comes to both affordability and convenient location.

Next step is to find a sky diving company operating in Christchurch or the Canterbury region that gives you the chance to enjoy the thrills of free fall. One of the advantages of tandem skydiving is the fact that you do not have to go through extensive training and of course the added benefit of having a trained and experienced sky diver joining you on the “ride” definitely helps to calm any nerves.

Generally you will receive a relatively short briefing which covers topics such as the manner in which you will be harnessed to your instructor, the way in which the parachute will deploy and what to do and not do during freefall and landing. Once that is complete it is time to take to the skies.

There is inevitably a sense of nervousness as the plane ascends though adrenaline junkies will welcome the rush one feels as you near the jump-off point. Once you reach your point of “departure”, it is time to enjoy the view, but not for too long as you get ready to leap, and experience the true power of gravity while freefalling 200kph towards the spectacular scenery below!

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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Mount Agung Trek: Climbing the Majestic Bali Volcano

Renown for breathtaking beaches and mysterious temples, Bali is an exotic tropical destination. While Bali’s most famous outdoor activity would be a day lounging along the beach, further inland lie the exciting trail up Bali’s most famous active volcano, Mount Agung. Situated in the Karangasem district in Eastern Bali, the majestic Mount Agung is the backdrop for many beautiful hotels including Alila Manggis.

Measuring a height of 3142 meters, Mount Agung is Bali’s tallest mountain and fifth tallest volcano in Indonesia. It is also one of the island’s holiest sites with the Balinese belief that it is a replica of the mythical 5 peaked Mount Meru that is at the centre of the physical, metaphysical and spiritual universe according to the Hindu, Jain and Buddhist faiths. Found along the slopes of Mount Agung is the sacred Mother Temple Pura Besakih which miraculously survived a fatal volcanic eruption in 1963. Although there are multiple trails that lead to the summit of Mount Agung, the shortest trek is a five hour journey that is challenging and yet rewarding as the breathtaking views of Eastern Bali countryside unravels around you. To reach the summit of Mount Agung in time for sunrise, it is advised that you leave your Ubud Boutique Hotel Bali at 1.00 a.m and head to Pura Besakih to begin the uphill trek to Mount Agung’s peak.

Although the trail itself is safe enough to be journeyed alone, it is best to travel in groups accompanied by an experienced guide. The uphill journey begins with an offering at Pura Besakih before the trail leads you through a jungle as you embark on the six hour climb to the volcano’s peak. An alternative route up Mount Agung takes you past Pasar Agung Temple along a shorter trail. Nevertheless, the view from atop Mount Agung is worth the arduous journey with sweeping views of the East Bali, the neighbouring islands of Lombok and Nusa Penida and the startling 2300-foot wide crater of Mount Agung bound to leave you mesmerized.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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White Water Rafting in Sri Lanka- Adrenaline pumping journey

Looking forward to spend a holiday in Sri Lanka? Holidays are much more fun when you visit the banks of the Kelani River. Explore the range of water sports activities it has to offer including white water rafting. The ardent traveller could use the services of a renowned tour provider such as Sri Lanka Holiday Travel when visiting Kitulgala, the main water rafting location in Sri Lanka.

Engage in an adrenaline pumping journey along the Kelani River, which is part of the famous Bridge on the River Kwai fame. Paddle through the calm waters and the lush greenery of the Virgin’s Breast and move along to the Killer Fall with strong rapids and a 90 degree drop. The gushing water and the ambience is an experience you wouldn’t want to forget. The grade three rapids of the Kelani River are ideal for beginners as well as intermediate rafters alike. Every year many tourists visit Kitulgala with family & friends to spend a day white water rafting which could lasts from 1 ½ hours to 3 hours depending on the requirements of the visitor. Although Kitulgala is considered as the main spot to go rafting in Sri Lanka, travellers could also explore the Sitawaka River off Avissawella which requires skills of higher degree as the rapids in the river are of grade 3 and 4.

 

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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Koh Samui Canopy Adventures

Canopy Adventures locations is on the island of Koh Samui, which is a small but exquisitely beautiful island made up of white sand beaches and rain forests inland. This location is a hidden beauty with breathtaking waterfall views from 21 platforms high up in the trees, via 15 thrilling cable rides over 2000 meters. You will be flying over some of the most amazingly beautiful and enchanting views you’ve ever witnessed from this bird’s-eye-view vantage point. You’ll see gorgeous waterfalls, exotic jungle vegetation, and coast lines of beautiful white sand and palm trees. The Anantara Hotels, Resorts and Spas is a Luxury Hotel, which provides a haven of comfort and tranquility for those who want to relax and unwind. This sophisticated hotel emanates style, elegance and class. Guests will be treated to fabulous and tantalizing culinary delights by the expert team of professionals.

Canopy Adventures will pick the guests up from the hotel, and shuttle them off to their base camp for a safari ride in their 4×4 vehicle, which is an adventure all its own. As you pull up to Canopy Adventures, you’ll be greeted by the friendly and highly trained staff, and given delicious refreshments that only the fresh fruit of the rainforest can provide. During and after refreshments you’ll find out exactly what you’ll be doing, you’ll receive your safety equipment which includes your safety harness, your gloves, you’re your helmet and then you’re on your way for the thrill of your life. But first comes the thorough training so that you can soon begin your flight, from platform to platform, through our amazing rain forest. Enjoy the cable ride, where you will be taking in the amazing views like few people ever get to experience. There are practice areas, and you will receive thorough training that day for about 20 minute, along with your safety equipment with expert staff. The professionals will teach you exactly what to do on the practice lifts, and then they’ll help you at each and every cable to zip through and over trees and beautiful scenery.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Explore Mount Batukaru

Pura Batukaru is a haven for the soul not only for Balinese but also for everyone. Superb scenery along the road of the Penebel village and the mystical jungle where the temple is nestled gives the soulful experience to whoever visits this ancient site. Batukau, is Bali’s second-highest mountain at 2,276 m. It is the highest peak in the Bedugul volcanic area, but is dormant. Batukaru is worshipped by the Balinese, and has a temple, Pura Luhur Batukaru, devoted to it. Batukaru has a large crater, the largest on Bali, but this crater is open at the southern end, allowing the river Mawa to escape. It is this that gives it the name “Batukaru”, which means “coconut shell” in Balinese. There are many hotels and villas in Bali, however the Alila Villas Soori is one of the most Luxury villas in Bali. The area of Kerambitan, where Alila Villas Soori situated was at one time the seat of one Bali’s most important Royal families. This unique hotel is a haven for those who want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Bali. Enjoy the refreshing and revitalizing mountain air, clean spring fed water and panoramic views to the coast of Bali from this elegant hotel.

Batukaru Mountain is the highest peak in the Bedugul area, located in Tabanan regency. It has to be mentioned that it is recommended to professional climbers only. Also the complete Trekking Tour takes a little bit longer than other Trekking Tours as the last part of the tour, close to the summit, becomes really challenging. Regular Tours start around 7.30 in the morning and you will be back at 4.30. This is enough time to explore the rain forest life such as wonderful butterflies, wildlife monkeys and amazing plants.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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Surfing in Mirissa

With a sheltered beautiful beach in the South of Sri Lanka, Mirissa is located away from the bustles of the city; Mirissa is where life is slow paced. It is where, with amazing sunsets, you can rest and relax on the sandy beach on a tropical holiday. Mirissa is known as one of the major surf points in Sri Lanka. Mirissa beach offers waves for nice turns. The beach is clean and clear and a great start off point for a run into the waters. The blue waters offer a good ride for beginners and experienced surfers. Mirissa beach is an unpopulated beach. The deep blue waters of captivating Mirissa is also home to magnificent Blue Whales, Sperm Whales, Orcas and many species of Dolphins. The CASA Colombo Collection Mirissa is the most luxurious hotel out of all the luxury Mirissa Hotels. This hotel is grand and lavish, but also the simplicity and serenity of the hotel is quite refreshing. The Casa Collection Mirissa hotel is an award-wining 6 star boutique hotel. They offer world-class cuisines and elegantly and tastefully decorated suites, offering views of the sparkling blue ocean ,the lush wilderness and the golden sun-kissed beaches,

Mirissa is a point break location with intermediate level waves. Local surfers can be considered to be average to good. Best waves can be experienced early morning and late afternoon. Morning periods are considered to be the best. Mirissa is an exposed reef break that has reasonably consistent surf, although summer tends to be mostly flat. Offshore winds blow from the north. Groundswells more frequent than winds wells and the ideal swell angle is from the southwest. While the main focus in Mirissa is on beach life and surfing, many interesting places to visit are close by. Tea- and rubber plantations, the market town of Matara and the Yala National Park with its exciting wildlife are just some examples to choose from. Compared to Hikkaduwa surfing is still fun without real line ups and consistent waves. Best times for surfing in Mirissa is from October to March.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Snorkeling in Maldives

All the islands in the Maldives are coralline. These reefs commonly surround a lagoon and have been described as the biggest natural swimming pools in the world. The lagoons have flat, sandy bottoms which are relatively shallow and great for children. The clear water ensures excellent underwater ensues excellent underwater visibility for divers and snorkelers. The pristine coral reefs have the most incredible underwater life that can never be imagined. A kaleidoscope of florescence colored fish in an underwater garden of coral reefs is certainly a spectacular sight. Ellaidhoo Island is a safe distance away from the busy world, this bit of private paradise is located on the eastern fringes of North Ari Atoll. The Ari Atoll, the largest of 22 natural atolls that make up the Maldive Islands, is located in the western side of the Maldives. Ellaidhoo, blessed with a spectacular offering for marine enthusiasts, is known over the world as the dive island in the Maldives. The Chaaya Reef Ellaidhoo is one of the most luxurious Maldives Beach Resort. This luxury hotel is all about pampering and spoiling their guests, with a luxury of comforts. The hotel is on a beautiful sun-kissed beach, giving access to the sparkling turquoise ocean.

The older, larger islands in the chain have developed a layer of soil, made up of decomposing vegetation. Mangroves and banyan trees are plentiful along with the national trees, the classic coconut palm. The vegetation supports a rich bird life. Animal life on the island is also plentiful. There are over 100 species of indigenous flora, although there are 600 species on the islands. Turtles, practically Hawksbills, breed in the waters around the Maldives. Guests will be able to observe these remarkable creatures while also actively contributing to the conservation of these unique animals. Maldives has over 700 fish species. The islands has some incredible dive sites, which are often located in the channels between atolls where the speed of water movement allows for excellent drift diving. The islands have magnificent coral reefs and sparkling crystal clear lagoons. The island is also renowned world over, for its natural beauty. The best time to visit the islands, is in December.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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