Macau Travel Tips

Macau’s reputation has earned itself the nickname “The Vegas of China”! Did the destination pique your interest? Once colonised by the Portuguese, this city has turned out to be a wonderful option if you are more of a city traveller. Here are a few tips to keep in mind if plan to visit Macau.

Senado Square
Senado Square | Image Credit : Kounosu, Senado Square in Macau01, CC BY-SA 3.0

Travelling to and from the city

Travelling to and from Macau has been made easy since the 23rd of October in 2018 when the HZMB was introduced. This is one major bridge that connects Hong Kong to Zhuhai and Macau. One can either opt to travel by private vehicles or take the 24-hour Shuttle service. Furthermore, if you want a more scenic route a ferry ride would be ideal too.

Where to stay

It would be wise to choose your stay according to the attractions you wish to see on your visit. The Ruins of St Paul’s and Senado Square are situated towards the older side of the city. Nevertheless, there is no shortage of Macau serviced apartments and other options. Places like Ascott Macau have special deals to make things easy.

Currency to use

Macau does have its own currency which is called Macanese Patacas (MOP). Although this is used, the Hong Kong dollar too will be accepted more frequently. The exchange rate between the two currencies stands at a ratio of 1:1.

Casinos

This is one of the main attraction of the city of Macau. The best part of it all is that you can sign up for free! It is important that you remember to bring along your passport though as it is necessary for registration. Sign up and test your luck!

Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Travel guide to Hong Kong

Despite being known as a business hub, this is only part of Hong Kong’s fabric. There are a plethora of different sides to Hong Kong that contributes to its diversity and liveliness. Listed below are just a few places you must include in your itinerary.

Chi Lin Nunnery
Chi Lin Nunnery | Image Credit : Clément Bucco-Lechat, Chi-Lin nunnery 2, CC BY-SA 3.0

Chi Lin Nunnery

If you’re interested in all things history related, you’ll find this attraction fascinating. This nunnery dates back to 1934, and not a single nail was used to build this nunnery. The main hall is the most fascinating part of the monastery. You can reach this attraction within 25 minutes from Hotel Purple Hong Kong or any other such Causeway Bay serviced apartments.

Hong Kong Museum of Art

A landmark art museum, this is where you’ll find a rather extensive collection of Chinese art. All of the masterpieces are well organized into their own thematic galleries. A mix of calligraphic scrolls, textiles, Qing ceramics, and contemporary canvases among several other things for you to witness.

Ladies’ Market

In Tung Choi Street, you can browse through a variety of different items found in stalls! You can put your bargaining skills to practice over here.

Hong Kong Park

This green space is extremely welcome amidst all the skyscrapers surrounding it. You’ll find leafy pathways and a mix of rock and gardens in this park. The Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware and Edward Youde Aviary are also found in the park!

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

Museum Bahari of Jakarta

Indonesia is a vibrant country to visit and its capital, Jakarta is a fascinating place to explore. Museum Bahari of Jakarta is ideal for you to go through the sprawling treasures of the rich maritime heritage.

 

Sunda Kelapa
Sunda Kelapa | Image Credit : Danumurthi Mahendra from Indonesia, Pinisi Sunda Kelapa, CC BY 2.0

Significance

The Museum Bahari highlights the legacy of Indonesia’s maritime industry. The museum is a symbol of the nation’s maritime activities, even to the present day. 45 minutes away from Citadines Rasuna Jakarta is where you’ll find this museum.

What to see

Visitors to this museum will see an entire range of maritime equipment and vessels, that were used by various nations across Indonesia. Historic spice warehouses built by the Dutch East India Company in the 1600s is what the museum occupies. Sadly, in January 2018, a fire ripped through the heritage buildings causing much damage to the collection. Nevertheless, the museum is open to the public with what was salvaged, enough to warrant a visit. For those of you looking to get away from the comforts of Jakarta serviced apartments and are interested in unique things, you’ll leave the museum awestruck!

Other things to do

The visit to the museum is combined with a few other things as well, as it is a 15-minute walk from Fatahillah Square, where you’ll find the entrance to Jakarta’s historic harbour, Sunda Kelapa. Located on the same street, you’ll find Menara Syahbandar, the harbourmaster’s tower which was built in 1839 by the Dutch.

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

Fun Adventures in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

If your holiday plan includes spending long days on the beach, surfing the waves, going on foodie tours and partying on the shore, then Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka is the place for you!

Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa | Image Credit : Николай Максимович, Hikkaduwa – panoramio, CC BY 3.0

South Coast Escape

This laid-back town can be found along the island’s south coast; it is around 98 km from Colombo, the commercial capital and is easy to reach via the Southern Expressway or by train. Hikkaduwa resort, hotel and Airbnb options abound offering accommodation for varied budgets.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Golden sands bordered by azure waters await at Hikkaduwa Beach where soaking up the sun is a way of life! Beachside resorts the likes of Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon offer the ideal coastal base to also enjoy diverse dining and the happening nightlife scene in and around the beach area.

Ocean Escapades

Hikkaduwa also features thrilling water sports; there are some excellent waves for surfing especially for beginners, while snorkelling lets you explore the local marine national park home to assorted coral and marine life. For more in-depth exploration you can go diving to hotspots the likes of Black Coral Point and Kirala Gala.

More Adventures

There’s much more to do in Hikkaduwa; you can visit the nearby Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya, which is a temple on a small island, see turtle conservation in action at the Sea Turtle Hatchery & Rescue Centre and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. There’s always something new to discover!

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

A First Time Visitors’ Travel Tips for Thailand

The land of smiles as fondly called by many is truly welcoming despite the noisy smelly nature of some places. Culture shock may or may not hit you once you’ve landed, but then you’ve come to experience something different. Here are a few travel tips.

Thailand| Img by: 12019 via Pixabay 

When to visit

October to April is usually the peak season in Thailand. Summers are very hot and often are subject to little summer rain now and then. You could also come in time to observe festivals which take place from October to November.

Forgot something? Go shopping

Forgotten to pack in your favourite top? That’s too bad, but what’s brilliant is that you can go shopping for clothes from your favourite brands and for better prices too! 7-11 is the one stop shop to visit for basic items you might need.

Getting around

Taxis are quite alright to take to get around in the city. However, it would be advisable to agree on a price before you get into the vehicle. In the south, the taxis are a bit different. These are called songthaews. Tuk-tuk rides too may prove to be a good experience.

Finding your lodging

There are plenty of luxury hotels in Thailand. Hotel offers are available almost all year round at properties such as those by Chatrium Hotels & Residences. Homestays and boutique hotels are available too. Thailand can fit any budget so why not give it a try?

 

 

Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+

Jeddah’s Best Art Galleries

Taking a stroll around the streets of Jeddah is enough to discover plenty of art galleries featuring Middle Eastern creativity. Here are some of the best art galleries that you should not miss.

Tahlia Street Galleries
Tahlia Street Galleries | Image Credit : Ahmed Abdulbasit (Pakistan), Jeddah galleria, CC BY 4.0

Arabian Wings Gallery

Known as one of Saudi Arabia’s largest galleries the Arabian Wings Gallery boasts over 1500sqm of space to create the illusion of endless space. Making full use of its huge girth this gallery is a treat to explore up-and-coming artists as well as established names such as Damien Hirst, Banksy, and Heba Amed.

Athr Gallery

The Athr Gallery is one of Saudi Arabia’s classiest and most celebrated galleries in Jeddah for contemporary art. It displays montages, ink drawings, photographs, sculpture, scripture, and abstracts. The works of renowned Saudi Arabian artists are displayed at this venue located at Tahlia Street, which is 11 minutes away from Ascott Sari Jeddah, one of the best Jeddah apartments in the city.

Darat Safeya Binzagr Gallery

This gallery was established to accommodate the work of Saudi Arabian artist Safeya Binzagr and while it continues to showcase a wide selection of the artist’s work, there are other displays too covering and exhibiting the work of international and local artists.

Al-Alamia Gallery

The exhibits at this gallery are wholly enchanting; there you are treated to stunning landscapes, floral painting, authentic Islamic artwork and lots more. There is also a fine selection of celebrated Arabic artists work up for sale, which gives you a chance to take home some unique masterpieces.

Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+

My Travel Itinerary for Sri Lanka

Looking for a splendid beach vacation in Sri Lanka? The Eastern coast of Sri Lanka retains much of its pristine beauty with its unspoiled beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Do read on to know more facts!

Mirissa
Mirissa | Image Credit : Ji-Elle, Mirissa-Sports nautiques, CC BY-SA 3.0

Mirissa

If you want to make the best out of your holiday, you should spare some time to visit Mirissa for Whale and Dolphin watching. You will have the opportunity to view the most famous and the largest marine mammals, “Blue Whales”. Also, you will see several other whale species, exotic marine life, and dolphins.

Arugam Bay

If you want to receive the best out of Sri Lanka beach holidays, it’s worth visiting the stunning Arugam Bay to have a great experience while feasting your eyes on glorious sunset views. Undoubtedly, this place is a heaven for those of you who seek a laid-back ambience along with a welcoming and diverse community.

Yala National Park

As one of Sri Lanka’s premier safari hotspots, the Yala National Park is a thriving safari hub worthy of exploration. It will give you the opportunity to witness a broad variety of wildlife in Sri Lanka. If you are luckier, you’ll be able to witness magnificent a leopard. Those visiting this part of the country will have a plethora of accommodation like Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts which offers some of the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya

Sigiriya, also known as the Lion’s Rock, is a popular hotspot among many tourists who visit Sri Lanka. Visit this heavenly place on earth and get to know the rich history of the country. You’ll certainly be mesmerized seeing this giant rock palace against the backdrop of lush green surroundings and clear blue skies!

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Thrilling White Water Rafting in Sri Lanka

If your idea of a perfect holiday involves lots of action-packed thrills, then white water rafting in Sri Lanka is for you! Here’s what you need to know about this activity in this tropical island paradise.

White Water Rafting| Img by: Timeworks via Pixabay

Rapids of Sri Lanka

The premier place for white water rafting is Kitulgala, a favourite stop on adventure tours in Sri Lanka. The Kelani River here offers grade two to three rapids ideal for younger participants too. Those with more experience can look to tackle the rapids at the Sitawaka (grade three to four), Mahaweli (grade two to five) or Kotmale (grade four to five) rivers.

The Kitulgala Rapids

Those enjoying white water rafting offered by adventure specialists the likes of Nature Odyssey can look forward to challenging several of the Kelani River’s distinctive rapids. The experience lasts for around 90 minutes and the rapids have uniquely named sections such as Killer Fall, Head Chopper and Butter Crunch!

The Ideal Period

The months from May to December are generally considered the best time for this activity in Kitulgala; this is mainly because the seasonal south-western monsoon makes the river swell which leads to faster rapids too.

Other Activities

The ideal complement to Kitulgala white water rafting is the many activities you can enjoy in and around the Kelani River. These include waterfall abseiling, rainforest trekking, canyoning and performing confidence jumps from varying heights to rock pools below!

 

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

 

A Travel Guide to Suzhou

China is an ancient civilization that has managed to preserve much of its history even to date. One of these preserved age-old cities situated a short distance away from Shanghai is the skilfully landscaped Suzhou.

Gardens in Suzhou
Gardens in Suzhou | image Credit : SteFou! from Lübeck, Germany, Suzhou-classical-garden-corner-1, CC BY 2.0

Classic Gardens

The beautiful city of Suzhou has famed the world over with its amazing classic garden collection. There are approximately 60 gardens in the area of which 9 have been recognised as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.

Water Towns

The brilliance of archaic China is still evident in the marvellous water towns in Suzhou. Water from various rivers and canals flow across the towns. One may come across short bridges, interconnected streets and so on bringing out a nostalgic feel to the surrounding.

Kun Opera

Being one of the oldest forms of opera in the world, the Kun Opera combines the perfect mix of rich literature, traditional dance and ancient tunes to bring together a masterpiece! For this, the opera was deemed Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2001. The best place to watch the Opera would be at Suzhou Opera Museum a short distance away from Ascott Midtown Suzhou.

Travel & lodging

If you are planning on visiting Suzhou, many a Suzhou serviced apartment have come up and are readily available for accommodation. As for travel, since the city is located close to the capital, there are trains running from Shanghai to Suzhou.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Venture into the dark corners of the ocean floor in Hikkaduwa

Venture into the dark corners of the ocean floor in Hikkaduwa to explore under sea marvels of ship wrecks, rock formations, caves and the beautiful coral reefs. The sea surrounding Hikkaduwa has hidden underwater mysteries and magical marine life for people to explore.

Water sports, Hikkaduwa| Img by: Amila Tennakoon via FlickrCC BY 2.0

 

Water sports

There are many things to do in Hikkaduwa while staying at luxury hotels such as Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon. Hikkaduwa is ideal for many kinds of water sports, deep sea diving, snorkelling and viewing of coral reefs under water via taking a ride on a glass bottom boat. There are variety of colourful tropical fish and other gorgeous marine life to be viewed as well.

Deep diving

There are so many under water sites for divers to explore; ship wrecks, reef and rock formations, underground caves and multi-coloured coral and tropical fish inhabiting the reefs are all part of an exciting diving experience in Hikkaduwa.

Historic shipwrecks

The shipwreck is a main attraction for divers here. Many divers visit this site to enjoy the adventure of diving to explore these underwater shipwrecks. An oil tanker known as Steam Ship SS Conch transporting oil to Madras hit the rocks and sank on 3rd June 1903. The parts of this broken ship are scattered over a large area on the sea beds of Hikkaduwa and part of the hull had turned upside down forming a large cave which became a safe haven for marine life and a variety of fish inhabiting it now. Divers can have a great experience swimming through this cave.

 

 

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+