Established in 1994 to promote Arabian culture through a fun and entertaining medium, the Kingdom of Aladdin amusement park enthralls park-goers of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Make this theme park part of your “to-do” list on a fun day out for the whole family as part of a stay at one of the stylish Doha serviced apartments in the heart of the city, such as the Ascott Doha. Situated near easy transport links, you’ve got the city in the palm of your hand to explore from one of the most elegant serviced apartments in Doha. Explorers of all ages are sure to love the mystical Kingdom of Aladdin theme park, also known as the “Family Fun Park of 1,001 Delights”, and also “Entertainment City”. Enjoy some fun rides such as the Ferris Wheel and Carousel for the younger crowd, and exciting bumper cars and go-karts for those looking for a little more action. Take a leap of faith on the trampoline, try your hand at air hockey, and challenge your best high scores at the video game arcade. Budding artists will love bringing their imaginations to life on paper at the Print and Stamp section that allows a kid’s inner artist to bloom into fruition. Several restaurants located onsite will add a much-needed dose of fuel in between attractions. Be sure to call ahead before you visit, as some days are set aside for women and children below 12 years only, other days just for single men and boys above 12 years old, with the rest of the week set aside for the entire family. With daily costume parades that allow ample photo opportunities, an amphitheatre that puts on the most fantastic shows, and a fireworks show to look forward to, the memories you make at The Kingdom of Aladdin theme park are sure to be cherished for a lifetime.
Category: Miscellaneous Adventures
Whale and Dolphin Watching in Kalpitiya
There are few places close to the Colombo city which have been recognised as tourist destinations, but Kalpitiya in the Puttalam District is drawing a lot of attention since of late because of the whale and dolphin watching expeditions that are available there. The area is popular as a fishing district and has stayed away from the tourism spotlight up until a few years ago. A large number of locals spotted dolphins and whales off the coast of Kalpitiya and this drew attention to the beautiful town of Kalpitiya. There are several travels and tour companies that offer whale and dolphin watching expeditions all you will need to do is get yourself to Kalpitiya and just ask around.
Kalpitiya is around 170 km from the city of Colombo; it is located in the North Western province. It is a remarkable area because from one side it is surrounded by the Indian Ocean and from the other side it is enclosed by a lagoon. For nature enthusiasts this is a perfect setting, you can go on boat rides in the lagoon and explore the natural vegetation and also observe whales and dolphins out in the sea. For whale and dolphin watching the best place to set off from is the Alankaduwa beach.
Other activities that you can indulge in when you visit Kalpitiya is to go diving or snorkelling along the reef. Since the sea around this region was least damaged by the tsunami of 2004 there is a rich variety of marine life dwelling here. After a diving or snorkelling outing check out the fishing community residing in the coastal areas, you can observe fisherman at work going out in the morning or bringing in their catch by night. The fish markets are also an interesting place to visit, you can choose from a delectable array of sea food at this market and you can be assured to strike a good deal for your purchase. The town was once colonised by the Dutch and remains of the Dutch Fort is a sight to see.
The best way to travel to Kalpitiya is by hiring your own vehicle and preparing for a road trip. Check out Sri Lanka car rental companies for some great offers on 4WDs and cars. Even an airport taxi in Colombo Sri Lanka can offer a package deal on a trip to Puttalam. Try out Malkey Rent A Car where you can choose from a fleet of vehicles as it has some good deals for rental.
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.
Beaches in Nusa Dua
The island of Bali is a vibrant location on the Indonesian landscape that is a tropical paradise for visitors from across the globe. An area fast gaining popularity is Nusa Dua, a pristine peninsula located on the tip of southern Bali. Soak in the tropical ambiance of the island from a luxury Nusa Dua resort guaranteed to provide you with a welcome getaway. A luxury resort Bali can be found at The Laguna Resort & Spa for an unforgettable vacation within the sun, sand, and surf at Nusa Dua. The name can refer to the peninsula as a whole or an exclusive enclave reserved for mainly tourists that offers prime swimming conditions in a safe and controlled environment. If you’re looking to break out of the cage, Nusa Dua proper also offers a few choice spots ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. The peninsula’s largest public beach is Geger Beach, also known as Pantai Geger, complete with clear turquoise waters for optimal swimming and water sports. It is also rather cool compared with other beaches in the area, as it is one of the few beaches that face the east, which also boosts the sea temperate more than other seaside locales. For a scenic spot of island adventuring, head over to Serangan Island (also known as Turtle Island), which is a turtle conservatory. You can rent a boat from Nusa Dua and indulge in a glass-bottom boat ride to come face-to-face with the vibrant marine life lingering just below the waves. Or simply laze on the pristine white sands of the beach and soak in some quality rays for that iconic tropical tan for a true immersion with the locale’s landscape.
Bird Watching in Kumana
The tropics of Sri Lanka make it an ideal destination for bird watching with the Kumana National Park being one of the prime locations for nature lovers to indulge in such an outdoor adventure. Found approximately 391 km southeast of Colombo, the park is easily accessible by choosing to stay at any luxury hotel Sri Lanka has to offer. Even Sri Lanka boutique hotels such as Saman Villas Bentota can be chosen as a favourable choice of accommodation to come home to.
The park comprises of mangrove swamp sections, karan ferns, kumbuk trees and wetland areas that serve as ideal breeding grounds for a host of bird species that flock in large numbers. When scouring the area one must keep in mind to visit the Kumana Villu which is a swamp lake where numerous water birds such as spoonbills, egrets and pelicans may be sighted. Be sure to take your binoculars with you for you might capture sights of the migrant birds that arrive here. These include the malabar trogon, yellow-footed green pigeon and the greater racket-tailed drongo. Amongst the 255 species that are known to inhabit the area, the black-necked stork and great thick-knee can be seen during the months of April to July. The best time to head over would be during the initial half of the year where the waterholes are full to the brim. After a trip to Kumana one will be left with an abundance of memories to take back home.
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+
Mu Ko Phetra National Park
Mu Ko Phetra Marine Park is located in the Andaman Sea side of Thailand and is one of the largest marine parks in the country. There are around 30 islands that belong to the park and some of these islands are known to be nesting grounds for turtles that lay their eggs on the beach. Since the national park includes islands from the southern part of the Trang Province and the northern area of the Satun Province there is a variety of flora and fauna found here. The site is an excellent place to visit from sunrise to sunset. Visitors can begin the day by exploring the colourful coral reef which is home to rich marine life. Then set off on a trekking tour observing some curious animals and birds in the tropics.
The area has some of the typical features of Thai’s tropics such as steep limestone rocks and white sandy beaches so it is perfect for those who want to go for a hike. The limestone is believed to be at least 470 million years old and they reach up to 200m in height providing a spectacular view of the Andaman Sea. There are a lot of water based activities one can participate in while at the park; snorkelling, diving, swimming and kayaking are some of them. If you are feeling tired then it is best to take a ride on a cruise boat or go on a ferry. Some of the islands have been restricted to the public and you need to be with a recognized tour guide if one wants to see certain locations in the area.
One will notice that there are different types of forests scattered across the islands; rainforests, open forests and mangrove forests. The mangrove forests are in the muddy areas, near the lagoons; there are open forests on the beachfront filled with lush vegetation. The rainforests are found in the interior of the islands, and you need to travel further inside to see them. What is also fascinating are the different animal species and aquatic life you see here. Monkeys, wild pigs, bats, pythons and Indian monitors are abundant. Turtles, Brahminy kites, collared kingfishers, and reef egrets are also frequently sighted. If you are looking for a place to stay so you can visit the marine park then you should try to check into Krabi resorts. You can also consider staying at a Trang resort which makes an ideal base to explore the area. When visiting the region consider staying at Anantara Si Kao Thailand which features villas overlook the stunning Andaman Sea.
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.
Tel Moreeb
The deserts of the UAE not only offer visitors a chance to witness the sheer beauty of the barren landscapes that abound, but also take part in thrilling adventure sports too. Believed to be the tallest sand dune in the world, Tel Moreeb is one such desert attraction and can be visited while staying at a hotel in Abu Dhabi. When in search of accommodation Abu Dhabi has to offer consider the luxurious Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi which provides an ideal base for business and leisure alike.
Plan a trip to the desert area known as the Empty Quarter where you will find the imposing Tel Moreeb sand dune. Situated around 25 kms from the Liwa Oasis, Tel Moreeb is aptly referred to as the ‘Scary Mountain’ since it is more than 300 metres in height and features an incline of 50 degrees. A popular spot for motorsport enthusiasts, Tel Moreeb attracts those interested in quad bike and four wheel drive vehicle excursions. One of the best times to visit this area is during the event known as the Moreeb Hill Climb which takes place each February and which gives you a chance to see dirt bikes and other vehicles in action.
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+
Happy Valley
How about leaving behind the monotony of work and stepping out for a well earned break? Well then think no further than the Happy Valley Shenzhen which is by far China’s most visited and enjoyed amusement park. Located in the Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Happy Valley can easily be reached by choosing a Shenzhen serviced apartment. Do consider a serviced apartment Shenzhen has to offer by staying at Somerset Garden City Shenzhen.
Covering an impressive 86 hectares, Happy Valley is made up of nine themed sections which include Typhoon Bay, Sunshine Beach, Mt. Adventure, Gold Mine Town, Spanish Square, Cartoon City, Playa Maya Water Park, Happy Times and Shangri-la-Woods. Opened in 2002, the park serves an array of exciting and absorbing rides that would make anyone want to come back a second time. Voyage through the dense forests of Mt. Adventure and arrive at ‘The Space Shot’ which will take you up to a height of 60 metres in the air where you can savour a few seconds of the surroundings before being hurtled down at an amazing speed. Take the little ones to Cartoon City where they are sure to be kept company by the numerous fairy tales on show. For jaw-dropping excitement, take on ‘Shooting the Chute’ which is the world’s highest fall located at Typhoon Bay.
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+
Hike Through Puerto Rico Rainforest
While the Caribbean may be known for its sun drenched beaches and exciting water sports, islands such as Puerto Rico are also blessed with stunning rainforests, perfect for a hiking adventure. Before setting off on your outdoor excursions look to find accommodation that also lets you experience the very best the Caribbean has to offer. Staying at Turks and Caicos luxury resorts are definitely worth considering and Parrot Cay Turks & Caicos stands out amongst the available options. This Turks and Caicos beach resort is located on its own private island and provides an idyllic getaway by the sea.
Make sure to plan a trip to Puerto Rico where you can explore rainforests and discover the exotic wildlife of the Caribbean. One of the best areas to go hiking here is the El Yunque Rainforest which happens to be the sole tropical rainforest of the US National Parks. Perfect for jungle treks, this forested area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna including numerous orchids and tree species. As you hike through the forest you may hear the sound of Coqui frogs, not to mention a variety of bird calls. There are many trails at El Yunque Rainforest, each offering a different path and a different journey of discovery. These trails include La Mina, Juan Diego Falls and the El Yunque trail which leads to a peak where one can enjoy awe-inspiring views.
Wadi Tiwi
If you’re in the mood to commune with nature and explore the natural wonders of the Omani landscape, the Wadi Tiwi is a splendid gorge that has been carved into the mountains, flanked by soaring cliffs and runs down into the sea. Explore this and other features of Oman when you make your base at one of the stunning Oman hotels in the city of Muscat, such as the Al Wadi Hotel Sohar. With a central location and welcoming hospitality, this Oman hotel is sure to please you. Escape the bustle of the city and head to Wade Tiwi, which is home to a charming array of traditional desert villages that are framed by lush expanses of date and banana plantations, with bubbling streams meandering through the landscape. Close to about five kilometers into the gorge, you will encounter the idyllic community of Harat Bidah, featuring quaint dwellings of another age and towering walls of stone. If you fancy a drive that will give you an inspiring adrenaline rush, five kilometers out of Wadi Tiwi will bring you to the village of Mibam, which is located at the end of a rough stretch of road (used here loosely), and is the perfect excursion into the Omani wilderness if you’re coming in on a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Christmas in Bali: A Tropical Christmas
As December draws near, the spirit of Christmas seeps into people’s hearts with shopping malls decorated in Christmas colours: red and green, the sidewalks slippery with frozen snow and a general feeling of excitement in the air. Traditional Christmas celebrations will involve decorating a Christmas tree, leaving out cookies and milk for Santa, hanging of stockings on the chimneys and of course, cradling cups of hot chocolate in an attempt to insulate oneself from the cold. While this form of Christmas has its own intrinsic charm, opt for a different experience this December and make your way down to Bali, Indonesia to celebrate your own tropical Christmas.
Although the main demography of Indonesia is composed of non-Christians, Indonesia celebrates Christmas as a holiday with pomp and splendour. Similar to decorations done in Europe, Balinese shopping malls too resort to decorating the interior with the traditional Christmas colours and the exterior with sparkling, bright lights creating an feeling of excitement and thrill.
The best way to kick-start your Christmas in Bali is to first do your Christmas shopping as gifts are sold only until stocks last. Once your Christmas shopping list is ticked, tourists can opt to partake in the general spirit of Christmas by taking a walk around the city, exploring the markets and the malls, and perhaps singing a few rounds of some carols as well. Celebrating Christmas in Bali is just as exciting as celebrating it in a cosmopolitan European nation, excepting the cold climate for resorts, hotels and clubs organise a series of parties, Christmas events and more to celebrate the holiday.
Depending on which beach resort in Bali you opt to reside in, you may be lucky enough to enjoy a true feast during the Christmas week. If you opt for a hotel in Nusa Dua, you may be able to enjoy special Christmas foods and traditional deserts as well as complimentary eggnog. Enjoy your tropical Christmas to the fullest by opting to stay at a hotel the calibre of Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali which is a hotel that will cater to your every need during this special holiday season and deck your vacation with unforgettable memories.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+