Miscellaneous Adventures | The Adventure Travel Site

Nam Tok Phlio National Park

If you are planning on heading to the Tok Phlio National Park in Thailand, take a few minutes to read this guide first.

How to get there

From Chanthaburi city it’s about 15km, relies upon which course you remove from the city to the interstate; cycling from Tha Mai you will arrive on the edges of C city maintaining a strategic distance from the traffic, and about 27km, downplaying kms spent on Sukhumvit #3 by utilizing 3147, 3146, over the C River and 3348 which takes you to under 2km from the way to the recreation centre – can’t miss that one it has a colossal sign over the street where it meets #3.

Entrances

There are a few doorways to this national park which spreads 135 sq km, the principal passageway is on expressway Sukhumvit #3 that runs south past Chanthaburi to Trat. Many a Chanthaburi restaurant and resort the likes of Chatrium Golf Resort Soidao can be found nearby.

Walking In

Travelling south the principal sign you’re nearing the recreation centre (on #3) is an enormous Chinese sanctuary, and somewhat further on the side road to one side; 2km from here there’s a vehicle leave territory, at that point a few shops and the recreation centre doors. In case you’re cycling I’ve discovered the recreation centre security watchmen are very glad to take care of the bicycle, under spread by the watchman post.

Entrance tickets

Costs are standard for Thailand’s National Parks, 200b for outsiders and 40b for Thais and each time you have to show a Thai drivers permit to be permitted in at a less expensive rate.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. 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.

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+

Getting up close with elephants

Everyone that witnesses an elephant is truly fascinated by these majestic beings and their intelligent behaviour. As one of the few remaining megaherbivores on the planet, elephants hold great national value as a major tourist attraction. There are numerous places to see elephants in the country, listed below are a few.

Image result for Udawalawe — Mstyslav Chernov, Bathing elephants. Udawalawe National Park. Sri Lanka, CC BY-SA 3.0

Udawalawe
Declared a national park in 1972 and spanning 30,800 hectares, Udawalawe is home to roughly 500 elephants and other animals. A former teak plantation, they graze in scattered herds in the grasslands amongst the remaining teak trees. There’s an elephant orphanage nearby, where you’ll find injured or abandoned elephants being cared for, after which they’re released into the park.

Minneriya
Designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1938 to protect the Minneriya tank and wildlife of the surrounding area, you’ll find between 150 to 200 elephants roaming the park from July to August. In the dry season, an event is known as the ‘elephant gathering’ occurs and is a great opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe the social behaviour of the elephants in the wild. Just a 30-minute drive from Habarana Village by Cinnamon, a rather well-known Sri Lanka Resort, Minneriya is ideal for those looking to get a glimpse of these beasts in their natural habitat.

Pinnawala
Located in the central hills, this elephant orphanage was established in 1975 by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Abandoned and disabled wild elephants get care and protection at this special place that spreads across 24 acres. You can observe elephants bathing, as they play and splash around.

The Best Water Sports to Try in the Maldives

If you love having fun in the water or are looking for adrenaline-pumping thrills then definitely head to the Maldives and enjoy some of the best water sports on the planet! Here are a few worth trying.

Snorkelling

A water sport that the whole family can enjoy and one that requires no prior experience, snorkelling is a perennial favourite here. Rich in marine biodiversity and surrounded by crystal clear waters, the Maldives offers an unparalleled view into a magical underwater world where colourful corals and fascinating fish species coexist.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is another not to be missed water sport. Each diving hotspot offers something new to discover; from the largest gathering of manta rays in the world at Hanifaru Bay near The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort to shipwrecks the likes of the Maldives Victory, the ocean has many treasures in store.

Jet Skiing

Those who want a more speed-induced adrenaline rush should look to try jet skiing! Many resorts in Maldives do offer this water sport and be it riding with an experienced instructor or manoeuvring a jet ski by yourself, it should certainly satisfy your need for speed.

Kayaking

Another great water-based activity, kayaking is an ideal way to soak up the coastal charm and do some exploring too. Since the waters are clear you can also get a view of the vibrant marine life below. As an added bonus, this paddle-powered water sport provides a great cardio workout too!

Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveler. Google+

The Enchanting Sinharaja Rainforest in Sri Lanka

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sinharaja Rainforest is a rich storehouse of biodiversity home to an array of endemic flora and fauna. If you love communing with nature this is definitely a place you should explore!

Planning a Trip

This rainforest can be found in the south-west part of the island; it can be reached via Ratnapura, Deniyaya or Rakwana depending on where you are coming from. Of course, to fully utilise your time here choosing accommodation options like The Rainforest Ecolodge – Sinharaja which lies at the fringes of the reserve is a good idea.

Exploring the Trails

Those staying at a Sinharaja eco lodge Sri Lanka has to offer can look forward to spending lots of time trekking through the rainforest. The two main trails here are the Mulawella and Sinhagala trails, both of which offer a wonderful chance to experience the beauty of this World Biosphere Reserve.

Birdlife

The Sinharaja Rainforest is ideal for birdwatching and in fact, 21 of the country’s 26 endemic bird species have been recorded here. Keep a look out for sightings of the Ceylon grey hornbill, Ceylon wood pigeon, Ceylon blue magpie, Layard’s parakeet and Sri Lankan junglefowl to name but a few.

Other Wildlife

On your adventures, you may spot other endemic creatures as well including the torque macaque, purple-faced leaf monkey and giant squirrel. The rainforest is also home to many butterfly and reptile species too which add to its allure.

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+

Discovering the Amazing Wildlife of Sri Lanka

One of Sri Lanka’s most captivating highlights is its exotic wildlife. Be it fearsome, feathery, menacing, majestic, stealthy or slithery, these diverse species each have their own unique character!

wildlife SriLanka | Img by: pen_ash via pixabay

Where to Go

The country’s national parks are great places to see local wildlife in their natural habitats. Yala and Minneriya are two of the most popular national parks and are included on excursions by tour operators like Silvertree Travel. Wilpattu, Udawalawe, Bundala and Wasgamuwa are a few of the other parks you can visit too.

Mammals

There are over 120 mammal species including leopards, elephants, sloth bears and toque macaques which can be spotted on adventure tours in Sri Lanka. The sambar deer, giant squirrel, wild boar and porcupine are a few of the other species here. Not to be forgotten are the marine mammals such as whales and dolphins that can be found in the surrounding Indian Ocean.

Birds

A birdwatcher’s paradise, Sri Lanka has recorded a little over 440 bird species. Amongst the endemic species are the Sri Lankan junglefowl, Sri Lanka spurfowl, Layard’s parakeet and yellow-fronted barbet. The island also attracts many migratory species like the lesser sand plover, blue-tailed bee-eater and greater flamingo.

Reptiles

When it comes to snakes one can find species such as the Indian cobra, Russell’s viper and sand boa. Reptile species don’t only include snakes though; mugger and saltwater crocodiles, five turtle species including the green turtle and olive ridley sea turtle, rough-horned and pygmy lizards and water monitors can be found here too.

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

Bird Watching in Sri Lanka

With a wide variety of environments ranging from forest to jungle, wet to dry zone, and low lands to the hill country, Sri Lanka has no shortage of fascinating sites to spot diverse bird species.

Sinharaja Forest

Being the most bio-diverse wet zone forest cover in the country, Sinharaja must be explored by foot. The place declared a World Heritage Site in 1989 is home to a wide variety of endemic as well as migratory bird species. You can spot a Green Billed Coucal, Yellow Fronted Barbet, Ceylon Blue Magpie, Scaly Thrush, and many more fascinating species. Sinharaja is an ancient forest home to many magical aspects and is covered by local tour operators like Cinnamon Nature Trails.

Kumana Bird Sanctuary

When it comes to bird watching in Sri Lanka, you should not miss visiting the Kumana Bird Sanctuary. This bird sanctuary features a massive swamp lake which plays host to a wide range of nesting waterbirds, especially between May and June. Migratory bird species that can be spotted here are the Indian cormorant, lesser whistling duck, little egret, purple swamphen and spot-billed pelican.

Kanneliya Forest Reserve

Accessible from the coastal city of Galle, Kanneliya is another forest reserve where one can spot many endemic bird species. Keen birders can keep a lookout for the oriental dwarf kingfisher, brown-capped pygmy woodpecker, black eagle and Indian blue robin that have also graced the reserve with their presence.

Bundala National Park

The first Ramsar wetland site in the island, the Bundala National Park offers birdwatchers some of the best avifauna sightings be it for migrant water birds or resident species. The lagoons within the park attract many birds including large flocks of migrating greater flamingos, one of the highlights of bird watching here.

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+

Kalutara Thudugala Ella Falls

Image Credit-Chananand, Another view of the waterfall, CC BY-SA 3.0

It is not just the astounding sandy beaches that are appealing about Kalutara, other natural attractions such as the Thudugalle Ella Falls too charm tourists visiting the district. Here are a few things to know:

Location

The course to the waterfall commences from Katukurunda junction off Mathugama road to Thudugala junction. The Thudugalle Estate is the place this flourishing waterfall calls home. The attraction is roughly 20km away from many Kalutara hotels such as the well-known Mermaid Hotel & Club.

The longstanding edifice

The estate was previously owned by the British who subjugated Sri Lanka many years ago. A bungalow from that age can still be seen on the trail towards the waterfall. Most of the building lay there crumpled on the ground. Yet, the sight is still enthralling.

For the nature enthusiasts

On the way to the waterfall, the nature lover will be able to discover many plants such as Ketala plants and giant pus creepers. There are numerous types of lovely birds that sing sweet songs as if to welcome you to their home, the Yellow Magta and Dicaeum Erythornynchos are 2 common species seen here.

The waterfall

What is most quaint about this waterfall is that there is an underpass that runs beneath the falls, this tunnel ends at the top of the falls. It is a common bathing spot as well.

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+

Leopard Spotting in Yala National Park

Did you know the Yala National Park in Sri Lanka has the highest density of leopards anywhere in the world? What this means is that you have a great chance of spotting these majestic creatures on a safari here!

Leopard|Via-Pixabay,nicolasustainability,CC0

Introducing Panthera Pardus Kotiya

The endemic Sri Lankan Leopard or “Panthera pardus kotiya” has a rusty yellow coloured coat with characteristic dark spots. Generally a solitary hunter, it is the island’s apex predator and has been listed as endangered.

Planning Your Excursion

Leopard spotting is best done early in the morning or later in the afternoon. It’s best to stay at a Yala hotel right near the park itself. Such hotels generally provide their own guided safaris which add to the convenience.

Nocturnal Sightings

For a truly unique experience look to undertake a safari at night! One such experience you can try is the Infrared Night Drive offered at Cinnamon Wild Yala that features night vision goggles to spot leopards and other creatures of the night without disturbing them.

Best Times to Visit

Leopards may be spotted at Yala all year round, though the park is generally closed in September. May to August is usually the rainy season and you have a better chance of seeing leopards early morning. December to March marks the dry season and an afternoon leopard safari is ideal. Of course, the king of Sri Lanka’s jungle doesn’t follow a particular schedule so you never know when you may spot it!

Helpful and Amazing Shenzhen Facts for Travelers

Reviving from its past being a region of fishing towns 40 years back, Shenzhen is now the 7th biggest city in China and a major tourist destination. Read on to know more facts.

Shenzhen| Img by: SSDPenguin via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0

The transformation over the years

Until Shenzhen received a special economic administrative status in 1980, it was just a region of swamps and fishing villages. In the late 1970’s it’s population increased by 19.5 million people and most of the villages got urbanized. Now it has become China’s 7th largest city in terms of urban area.

Splendid Cantonese cuisine

When you come to Shenzhen and don’t savour a popular Cantonese cuisine dish, then you have made a huge mistake. For instance, Dim Sum is the top pick for mid-day snacks and meals. If you like to eat like a local, try out a dish like congee which is a common breakfast food here. Also, don’t forget to entice your taste buds with a variety of flavoursome Chinese dishes.

China’s richest city

Shenzhen is known as Mainland China’s richest city with a per capita income of 26,000 USD but still, it couldn’t surpass Hong Kong. It is a hotspot among foreign buyers across the world as well. The city itself is filled with many top-notch accommodations like Somerset Grandview Shenzhen which features some of the leading furnished apartments in Shenzhen.

Theme parks

After mountains and beaches, tourists are mostly drawn for theme parks. Shenzhen is home to some to some of the best theme parks like Window of the World, China Folk Culture Village, Happy Valley, and Splendid China.

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