The Great Barrier Reef, Australia, Img.Credit:[Szopen]The Great Barrier Reef is the known largest living reef habitat in the world. It is made up more than 2900 separate reefs and well above 900 islands. These islands span for more than 2600 kilometres or 1600 miles in size. The area that the reef covers can be estimated as above roughly 344,400 square kilometres. This beautiful aquatic landscape is without a doubt the most exquisitely diversified ecosystem on the planet. The Great Barrier Reef that is aged at over 25 million of years is a beautiful home to more than 600 different species of aquatic organisms. In this there has been estimated to be, more than 1500 different varieties of fish, over 4000 types of molluscs and more than 360 different varieties of corals.
Once you go underwater you will be stunned by the brilliance of the colour differentiation that exists as well as the various textures and shapes. The hundreds upon hundreds of fish that live in the eco-system create complicated yet incredibly simple patterns with their graceful movements as they swim around the place that they call home. The many silent dwellers of the Great Barrier Reef include sea cucumbers, turtles, giant clams, starfish, snails, shells, anemones, eels, sponges, rays and much more.
Port Douglas is the nearest city and the leaving point to the reef and each day over 12 tours leave the port. It is a complete diving and snorkeling haven and the nature of the area is such that even a beginner could enjoy a fun and safe snorkeling session. There are many Port Douglas hotels such as the Oaks Lagoons among multiple others that cater to the accommodation requirements of the many travellers that travel to the area from across the globe in seek of a glimpse of this age old gentle giant.
The Great Barrier Reef, Img. Credit:[Melanie Rogers]Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
What is a trip to the Middle East without a trip to the desert? Also, what better place for tourists to enjoy the desert than Doha, the capital of Qatar? There are a countless number of tourists coming to Qatar and most expect pretty much straight forward things from this Middle Eastern holiday spot- luxury , deserts , sand dunes and camel rides gaining top priority. Most choose tourists who come to this part of the world come with the expectation of splurging some cash. Some choose to spend their entire holiday in a luxury hotel in Doha and pay a visit to the deserts or some prefer to be closer to these mystical sand heavens. Either way most hotels like the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara; make it a point to organise desert safaris and tours in their activities for the guest. The desert tours are categorised into various packages to suit individual requirements. Packages are often uniform across various operators.
There are options to be driven around the desert or you could self-drive in the presence of a guide. Most desert safaris are categorised as morning –half day tours where one can see the sun coming up to light up the golden sands , full day tours that allow you to explore the desert throughout the whole day and enjoy sundown refreshments and entertainment , thirdly an overnight desert safari which allows visitors to spend the night in the desert. Regardless of the safari, it is important to keep in mind that driving around the desert takes special skills compared to the day to day driving that one may engage in. Hence it is worth it to check with the tour operator to see what prior off road experience is needed. It is best to be within the recommended trails at all times and obey the guidance of the experts.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.Google+
Camel Trekking in the Desert_ Image Credit: gettyimages
The Rub’Al Khali desert remains relatively untouched and is adjudged one of the most peaceful deserts in the world. In the UAE it receives much attention by streams of tourists who enjoy the remarkable landscape and endless sand dunes. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is located in the ‘Empty Quarter’ of this gigantic desert. It is a Liwa Desert resort that will allow you to gaze upon a desert that is filled with mystery. You can also explore the desert on the backs of the dearly-loved camels.
Camels hold a sense of secrecy and magic in their eyes. Well, you would say its gait deceives, and shows no sign of adventure and excitement. But it’s acknowledged that the desert is best explored on the ‘humpy-bumpy’ backs of camels. Nature reveals its beauties and history comes alive only when this sea of sand is explored in a ‘slow & steady’ manner.
The duration of your trek can vary depending on your travel buddies and favorite time of the day. If you have kids on board, you can choose the ‘family trek’. As long as your kids are above four years of age, you can choose this trek that will last approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. Your kids are sure to be thrilled by this unique mode of transport.
Sunsets are twice as beautiful when experienced in the desert. Choose the ‘sunset trek’ and be mesmerized as the red sands take on a golden hue as the sun sets. Be armed with a camera and be sure to ‘click’ away. The trek will last around one hour and forty five minutes and this includes a short stop for refreshments. Be refreshed by the sights and sounds of the desert.
If you are in a hurry to rush around, you can also opt for a short camel trek that will last forty five minutes. Life on the desert is slow-motioned but exotic and mystical, and there is no better way to experience it all than on the back of a camel.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
Sri Lanka’s east coast delivers up a perfect blend of sand, sun and waves, with no place better for surfing than the fishing village of Arugam Bay. World famous as a top surfing destination, Arugam Bay attracts surfers from around the world with its various surf breaks and isolated beaches. Located 320km from Colombo, a surf trip to Arugam Bay, or A-Bay as the locals call it, takes more than a little bit of planning; the fastest and easiest way to get there is by booking an Air Taxi. Sri Lanka has quite a few air taxi operators and the most popular tour operators like Cinnamon Air, have several ongoing offers for travel to the East Coast.
Once you have arrive and settled down in one of the many guesthouses and hotels along the coast, there are several surf points to choose from Main point, considered to be the best surf spot by many, to Whiskey Point located further north which is ideal for beginners as well. Elephant Rock and Peanut Farm are two other well-known spots near isolated beaches south of the Bay and if you head further south you’ll see Okanda, a surf spot surrounded by the dense jungle of the Kumana National Park.
While Arugam bay is more commonly known now for its surf culture and laid back hippie vibes, there is a wide range of activates to try besides surfing. There are several lagoons and beaches around Arugam bay if you just want to relax as well as cultural attractions such as historic temples and ancient ruins of Buddhist monasteries. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast the Kumana National Park is perfect for bird-watching and elephants. A trip to Arugam Bay with its natural break points and sunny beaches is the ideal vacation for anyone looking for Sri Lanka’s best surfing spot.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+|Follow my blog with Bloglovin
You may come to Koh Samui to experience the beach or relax with the attentive service of Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort or a similar luxury hotel. But a canopy ride through the lush forests of Koh Samui is worth taking a break from the sun and sands for!
Within easy reach of many Phangan resorts, canopy adventures at the Secret Falls of Koh Samui allows you to experience the forests in a completely new manner. If you are one for adventure and thrill, this is perfect for you. If you are not so much into adventure sports, this is picturesque enough that you can justify the presence of adventure. You will literally fly through the treetops of the forest, enjoying the greenery below, the blue skies above and the wind singing in your ears – all the while secure in the knowledge of a safety harness. You will also catch glimpses of the gorgeous coast line of Koh Samui, the famous sands and the beckoning waters. This is your opportunity to fly like the bird and truly see the holistic beauty of Koh Samui.
Half way through your canopy ride, you will arrive at a swimming hole – the famous Secret Falls – where you can relax, play in the waters and refresh for the next leg of your journey. Taking the curious visitors to the skies for a fun-filled ride since 2009, the canopy rides require no previous experience or special skill. An experienced guide will instruct you on what to do, and you can simply heed his/her words and enjoy the unspoilt wonders of the forest below. Maximum comfort is ensured on your ride, by having it proceed in four phases. Starting off with a gentle ride, each phase becomes gradually steeper and exhilarating, so that you are prepared to enjoy the ride as much as you would enjoy the lush picturesque world that you fly above.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
What is so good about sky-diving in Perth? Many travelers rave about sky-diving in this hot spot and the location garners hundreds of enthusiast from all over the world each year. Here’s why. Most of the veteran skydivers say that the best thing about the sport is that no matter when and where you do it, it alters your life drastically afterwards. It is supposed to give you an amazing amount of confidence in yourself that you could achieve the seemingly impossible. Sky-diving also embodies two of the great aspirations of the human race; flying and freedom. The culture around Perth is such that most of the people you meet during this experience will become your friends for life. There is also never a dearth of accommodation options with the many hotels and Perth hotel apartments around such as Citadines St Georges Terrace Perth and a number of others available in the city.
More interestingly, in Perth, you could choose to stay at the drop zone and people will just take you in. It does really happen in Perth and it inevitably paves the way for the best way of sightseeing and experiencing the local culture and lifestyle. Imagine looking at a new country or city from the sky, soaring through the wind, the experience changes the way you look at nature and compels you to enjoy your life so much more. Meeting the locals in Perth is also a great idea as it is said that they will tell you about what to do and what not to do while you are sky-diving. Most veteran sky-diving instructors have even said that the vast majority of their students that come in for a simple adventure end up with completely unexpected, career changes that see them happy for the many years to come.
Skydiving in Perth, Img Src:[skydivingPerth]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+
An ocean of sand and an expansive sky stretch above and before you in Abu Dhabi’s Rub al Khali or ‘The Empty Quarter’. The proportions of this desert are simply astounding and provide innumerable opportunities to have fun. You wouldn’t be in a conundrum when choosing between a day or night safari in the desert. Night-time in the desert will activate your imagination and allow for relaxation and adventure. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is perfectly located and is a Liwa Desert resort that will give you multiple opportunities to traverse the desert. A night-out in this desert is beyond unforgettable.
Choose to explore the desert in a Hummer. It will be both a smooth and bumpy ride on the seemingly insurmountable sand dunes.
Evening approaches, and your constant companion, the gleaming disk of gold would quietly retire. Watching its quiet retreat is a treat to the eyes and soul. It’s a perfect sunset. As you prepare to gobble a hearty meal, you will be taken aback by the lithe bodies and glittering outfits of the belly dancers. Experiment with hookah shisha pipes while also listening to soothing music.
Later on in the evening, dinner is served. It is certainly a lavish spread with succulent meats grilled to perfection, salads and rice. Happily stuffed, you can now retire onto your humble mattress. From within your tent a sparkling sky is revealed. Identify the constellations, name the planets and drop off to a comfortable sleep while counting the stars.
Once again, the golden disk peeps through the sand dunes and you will witness a breathtaking sunrise. This is the beauty of a night-out in the desert of Abu Dhabi, where you can enjoy the beauties of dawn and dusk.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
Embark on an adventure in Brisbane, the riverside city and capital of the sunny state of Queensland. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the country and also one of the friendliest towards visitors. Brisbane CBD hotels are booked up all year round as a result of the fantastic attractions and fabulous weather. A pair of walking shoes is all you need to get started, as Brisbane is a destination that should be discovered on foot. The heart of the city is where you will find the biggest concentration of restaurants and eateries, shops and boutiques, bars and pubs, as well as hotel and apartment accommodation like Oaks 212 Margaret. The Brisbane River, with is avoidable presence, takes pride of place in the heart of the city and the hearts of the people.
Visit the seventeen hectares of parkland, a dedicated recreational space that offers hiking trails, playgrounds, gardens and The Wheel of Brisbane, a Ferris wheel that towers over South Bank at a height of sixty meters. Explore the shopping and dining opportunities at Little Stanley Street or visit the iconic Eagle Street Pier, the core of Brisbane’s food scene.
Walking food tours are a fabulous way to spend an afternoon, whether you enjoy chocolate, craft beer or just food in general. Food festivals are also becoming a popular Brisbane tradition for celebrating cuisines and cultures.
If you run into the ‘Brisbane Greeters’, a group of chatty and helpful Brisbanites, they will be happy to share directions, advice and quick tips for the best spots to visit, places to eat and thing to see and do. If you like marine wildlife, head to Moreton Bay, the ideal lookout for spotting dolphins, whales and turtles. Or if you are otherwise inclined, get yourself a dose of culture along Grey Street, home to Queensland Performing Arts Center, the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art, the State Library of Queensland or the Queensland Museum and Science center.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+
The Maldives is made of over a 1000 small islands which are known for their breathtaking beauty. The islands’ beaches, culture, mild tropical weather, scenic beauty, and hospitality industry combine to make the Maldives one of the most tranquil destinations, but not to worry, these adventurous things to in the Maldives is just what you need for that adrenaline rush you need!
Diving & Snorkeling with Sharks!!!
Being home to fertile coral reefs breeding thousands of species of marine life, it is no surprise that the Maldives is home to some of the most exciting diving sites in the world. If you go to diving sites such as Shark Point, Manta Point, or Hammerhead Point you will get the opportunity of diving with sharks, turtles, manta rays and even whales! Diving is so popular in Maldives that any Maldives hotel; including the luxury Kandolhu Island Maldives, offer diving and snorkeling facilities.
Island Hopping
What is more adventurous that exploring secluded islands? There are many islands in the Maldives that remain uninhabited and completely taken over by nature. Exploring these islands is fun as well as exciting and you never know hidden secrets await you at these islands! Island hopping is immensely popular in the Maldives and many hotels and resorts offer you your own boat so you can hop on all the islands you want.
Speed!
If you are speed-freak then the water sports of Maldives are sure to give you all the excitement you need. You can ride of speeding jet skis, high powered glass-bottom boats, or ski on the water while being tugged by a speedboat! The speed, combined with the experience of exploring the waters and the islands of the Maldives is as adventurous as it can get.
Wreck Diving
Sharks aren’t your thing? No worries; just plot out the many wrecks on the seabed of the Maldives and take the plunge and explore these relics of the past. Wrecks such as the British Royalty are well worth visiting.
