Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Knuckles Mountains

Located in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka between Matale and Kandy districts, the folds and peaks of this extensive range of mountains stand, resembling the knuckles of a clenched fist which has in turn earned it its name. There is much to explore within these mountains and there are also plenty of hotels Sri Lanka has to offer in the environs which enables you to experience these mountains at ease. Earl’s Regency is one of the most preferred Kandy hotels which allow you all the comforts and peace of mind for such adventure. Harbouring a variety of flora and fauna mostly endemic to Sri Lanka and to the Knuckles Mountain Range, these scenic mountains are considered to be a climatic microcosm of the rest of Sri Lanka. Referred to as The Dumbara Kanduvetiya meaning mist enclosed mountain range by Sinhalese residents of the olden days, the Knuckles Mountain Range is characteristic of thick layers of cloud that often robes the striking landscapes.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Wildlife of Bali Calling to Her Admirers in the Many Voices of the Wild

Hidden in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lies the beautiful island of Bali, wrapped in her charm of the sea, with a voice of the wild untamed. Although Bali is the smallest province of Indonesia, it is the largest tourist destination of the country, and has been so for many decades in the past.

This little island is indeed a treasure trove for those who love the four legged or winged creatures that call the forest their home. Some creatures that roam the deep green jungles are endemic, some are endangered, while the rest are beautiful too to behold in their comforting abundance. Almost 14% of Bali is sacred to these creatures to roam free, undisturbed by their common greatest enemy, the man. These initiatives have ensured that the wildlife of Bali, is a thriving one.

The many little balls with colorful feathers that chirp on leafy branches and pick up fallen twigs to build their crude nests, are all relatives of the family of around 280 species of birds in Bali. Out of these, the Bali Starling with her black tipped tail is one especial, as the bird is critically endangered and endemic. Sacred Kingfisher, Stork billed Kingfisher, Sea Eagle, Lesser Adjutant, Dollarbird, Black Racket-tailed Treepie, Black-naped Oriole, Java Sparrow, Crested serpent-eagle, Yellow- vented Bulbul and the Great Egret are some of the many wonderful feathered creatures that roam the Balinese skies.

Mammals including the wild Banteng, Javan Rusa deer, Wild Boar, Indian Muntjac, Leopard Cat, Sunda Pangolin and Black Giant Squirrel inhabit the forests of Bali. However its greatest treasure, the majestic creature called Bali Tiger that was endemic to the island, was driven to extinction by poaching and habitat reduction in the year 1930. It is however unforgotten by the Balinese, while the skins and bones of the last of the kind sprawl lifelessly in museums around the world.

Squirrels and Monkeys spread their witty cheer amid the trees in their numbers while snakes such as King Cobra, Reticulated Python and Water Monitor along with spiders govern with fear. Bats remain well represented and are worshipped too, at Goa Lawah (Temple of the Bats) by the locals.

The waters of Bali also provide a home for many marine species like Hawksbill Turtle, Giant Manta Ray, Bumphead Parrot Fish, Hammerhead Shark, sea snakes and Dolphins.

The beauty of Bali can be explored while indulging in the opulence of the many hotels of the island. Out of these Uma belonging to the luxury hotel group of COMO Hotels and Resorts is highly recommendable, being an award winning hotel as well.

Explore Wildlife in Singapore

Singapore is a destination most renowned for its modern tourist attractions. However there is also a good diversity of wildlife in the region. It is crucial to find a centrally situated luxury resort Singapore if you plan on making the most of your holiday. An ideal choice in this regard is W Singapore Sentosa Cove, a truly exceptional Sentosa resort Singapore has to offer. Despite the country’s rapid urbanization, it has managed to preserve the majority of its fauna in a number of nature reserves. You can expect to witness nearly 60 mammal species, about 164 resident bird species, almost 108 species of reptiles which includes roughly 60 snake species. Also be sure to catch glimpse of amphibians, yet another set of species which adds to the local wildlife diversity.

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+

Bangalore Wildlife

Known for its thriving IT industry, the Indian city of Bangalore is also blessed with lush greenery and exotic wildlife which can be witnessed in the state’s wildlife parks and natural sanctuaries. Before embarking on your excursions make sure you find well appointed accommodation which to use as a base for your travels. Those in search of such 5 star Bangalore hotels can stay at Alila Bangalore which is ideally located in the Whitefield area. It is one of the leading Bangalore luxury hotels and offers easy access to the business district as well.

Nature lovers will have much to explore when touring around Bangalore and the National Parks of Karnataka. Rich in biodiversity and wildlife, such sites which include the well known Bannerghatta National Park are ideal spots to see some of the country’s exotic animal and bird life. On your excursions and safaris one has the chance to see tigers which are an iconic wildlife attraction, while other animals including elephants, jackals, sloth bears, barking deer, porcupines, hares and leopards are also known to be among the animal residents in these protected areas.

Surfing in Uluwatu

Uluwatu is a popular surfing destination because of the different kind of waves it offers. The varying swells and tides make it an ideal spot for expert surfers. It is located on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula and is the largest limestone peninsula as well. Riding the waves with the spectacular Uluwatu Temple in the backdrop makes it a beautiful experience, not to mention the vibrant and multi-hued sunsets that take place here as well.

Surfing is at its very best in Uluwatu during the dry season. Since it is on the right side of the peninsula the wind direction is from the southeast to the west creating ideal big waves. The best waves appear during mid and high tide. The peak area in front of the caves is most frequented by surfers because the waves are consistent, short and powerful veils of water rising from 1 foot to almost 8 feet.

Move 100 metres further in and surfers will come across the racing tracks. It is best to ride these waves during the low tide season when they are around 6 feet in height. During ideal conditions the peak will connect to the racetrack and one can keep riding waves that are almost 10 feet high.

The inside corner is nice and fun and the mid and low tide gives one waves that are around 6 feet tall. The grand finale in the inside corner is the tube; pass through this and you end up at the outside corner. This is what Uluwatu is all about. A low tide offers big swells that are on an average 8 feet tall and goes on for around 300 metres. The temple area has 2 surfing hotspots; namely the ‘outside temple’ and ‘the bombies’. Since the water here is very shallow it is advised that only experts surf here.

Once you have done all the surfing you want to and your system is done for the day you should head over to the caves; aim right to the cave as the current will move you left when you are paddling. After that you can head to any of the Uluwatu hotels to get in some much deserved rest and relaxation. Most Bali resorts also offer amazing rejuvenation massages which are well worth experiencing. Consider staying at Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa where you can enjoy such personal and luxurious pampering.

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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Exploring The Fascinating Halaveli Wreck

One of the most popular destinations in the world for diving, the Maldives not only is home to a diverse array of marine and coral life, but some submerged wrecks as well which provide a truly fascinating underwater excursion. One such site worth exploring is the Halaveli Wreck that can be found in the North Ari Atoll. Before embarking to the site, make sure to find accommodation at one of the Maldives island resorts which not only feature a PADI Dive Centre, but take guests on diving excursions as well. Naladhu Maldives is one such Maldives hotel and offers an idyllic getaway on an island paradise.

Divers can look to head to the Halaveli Wreck dive site where one can explore this relatively small freighter which was intentionally sunk in the 90s. The wreck which lies at a depth of around 20 to 30 metres, provides an exciting dive experience and on your underwater adventures you will come across an array of coral and marine life too; batfish, morays, mackerels, lionfish and groupers inhabit these waters, while those visiting in the afternoons have a good chance of seeing majestic stingrays.

 

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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Leopard Watching in Wilpattu

Nature lovers and all leisure travellers visiting the charming island of Sri Lanka has a plethora of places to visit among which, Wilpattu National Park is a highlight. When in search of Sri Lanka beach resorts a desirable choice is Palagama Beach Kalpitiya, one of the most unique Kalpitiya hotels. Relatively larger than Yala National Park and having a fascinating history, Wilpattu park is renowned for being ideal for spotting leopards. The journey in the park itself is an exciting experience, bringing your inner daring explorer. The majority of leopard spotting in the park has been recorded near its water basins or villas. Thus take part in a leopard safari to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

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+

Wolong National Natural Reserve

The Giant Panda species has always been under the threat of extinction but the Wolong National Nature Reserve found in Wenchuan County in China continues to play an influential role in safeguarding such a breed. Check out a serviced apartment in Chengdu near to the reserve so that you would not be spending too much of time travelling. A serviced apartment Chengdu provided at Somerset Riverview Chengdu should be considered before making plans of venturing out to the serenity that surrounds this sanctuary.

Covering an area of 200,000 hectares, the reserve was inaugurated in 1963 and houses in excess of 4000 species out of which 150 are Giant Pandas. Known for its unique blend of flora and fauna, Wolong provides visitors with access to a host of other endangered species which include the white-lipped deer, red panda and the golden monkey. Both temperate and tropical climate zones exist here which is why the place is perfect for viewing the clouded leopard and the Eurasian lynx in their natural habitats. The Panda Research Centre found within its premises is where extensive studies are carried out on the animals while breeding programmes to date have resulted in over 50 panda cubs being brought into the world.

 

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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Deep Sea Fishing in Abu Dhabi

Imagine a holiday where you can fish in the warm blue oceans of the Arabian Gulf in the Middle East and enjoy the best of hospitality and great times. All this and more is what awaits you in Abu Dhabi.

If it is catching big fish in the deeps seas or waiting patiently till you know for sure that your catch is hooked to your bait, that excites you and get your adrenaline rushing, one of the must do activities during a holiday to the Middle East to go on one of the much popular deep sea fishing trips. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular places amongst serious fishing enthusiasts.

For those who are keen on game fishing or even those who are keen to learn this exciting sport, Abu Dhabi is definitely a great place to try out this activity. There are numerous service providers who will not only take you to the best of fishing sites around the island, but also make sure that you catch some of the best underwater specimens of your life! What is more, there are many options ranging from state-of-the-art yachts to small boats to choose from for your fishing trip and varying trips ranging from half a day fishing trips to full-day adventures.

Even if you are new to this sport, there is nothing to worry as there are many lessons that you can take and with the expert guidance of the staff, you are sure to have a great time engaging in deep-sea-fishing in Abu Dhabi.

It is important to note that the government does not allow fishing without a license and you can avoid the hassle of getting a licence for a short period by using one of the service providers who already have the necessary licences.

Many hotels and resorts have facilities for these activities or have contacts of service providers. If you are staying at an Abu Dhabi Resort, or one of the Abu Dhabi Beach hotels such as the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, make sure you make use of this great opportunity to catch the game you always wanted.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Discovering the Charming Wat Bo Phut in Koh Samui

Set amidst stunning coastal landscapes, lush greenery and breathtaking vistas, the island of Koh Samui is also home to a rich cultural heritage that can be witnessed at such sites as Wat Bo Phut. This charming temple can be found in the coastal locale known as Bophut and those in search of a Samui hotel here can consider Anantara Bophut Koh Samui. This Samui resort lies along the sands of Bophut Beach and is an ideal starting point to your excursions.

Plan a trip to Wat Bo Phut where one can observe the truly distinctive architecture and design of this temple. Those exploring the site will also come across a variety of ornate sculptures and can witness the activities of the monk s here. Also of note is the golden and red gate and visitors to Wat Bo Phut can additionally enjoy the serene atmosphere and peaceful natural surroundings which lend to the site’s old world charm.

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. Google+