Category: Miscellaneous Adventures

Scuba Diving in Thailand: Enjoy the Mysteries of the Ocean

Thailand has proven to be a popular holiday destination in Asia as tourists eagerly flock to the country enticed by its vast shopping prospects, amazing sightseeing and of course, the idyllic delights of islands such as Phuket. One of the greatest attractions of such islands, one that appear to become more and more popular every year, is scuba diving for the underwater visibility is tantalisingly high around most dive sites in Thailand. As a result, scuba divers are treated to picturesque sightings of corals, an abundance of sea life and even underwater shipwrecks.

While over two hundred thousand tourists visiting Thailand opt to dive, scuba diving is progressing rapidly towards becoming a multi-million dollar industry. With more tourists visiting the country annually, the Thai administration has taken steps to improve facilities and open up better diving sites as well. One of the best locations in and around Thailand for this activity include the well known island of Phuket whose abundance of healthy coral fosters a hospitable environment for a thriving underwater world. For those visiting Phuket, Racha Yai, Ter Bay, Racha Noi and Koh Doc Mai are iconic locations for divers but tourists should take care to inquire prior to doing so in order to avoid strong currents.

The Koh Phi Phi Island is another location which is home to several dive sites. Found between Phuket and Krabi, this island’s natural beauty above sea level is deeply complemented by its splendour beneath its shores. Diving sites along the beaches of Ao Nang and Railay as well as Chalong Bay are ideal for those staying at Krabi resorts and these sites are conducive for scuba divers as well as those who wish to go snorkelling. Furthermore, scuba divers will also find the King Cruiser wreck an exciting underwater excursion for it is known for the sea anemones that attract schools of fish making it a wonderfully colourful site.

Hence, it is abundantly clear that it does not matter which Trang resort you may opt to stay at for, in terms of diving, for the Thai coastal belt is dotted with amazing dive sites. However, if you wish to experience true luxury as well as amazing diving experiences on your visit to Siam, ensure that you check in at Anantara Si Kao Thailand and allow its lavish comfort to soothe your soul.

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.

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Underwater Adventures in Maldives

Maldives is popularly known for its white sandy beaches and alluring blue waters, but it is also one of the best sites for underwater adventures. The clear blue waters are perfect for snorkelling, deep-sea diving and scuba diving. Since Maldives comprises of 1192 coral islands spread over a large area there are so many places to explore when you visit. Aqua fanatics will be amazed by the rich diversity of marine life that surrounds the islands. There are over 1000 different species that have been sighted in Maldivian waters. There are 21 species of whales and dolphins, around 5 species of sea turtles and 187 species of coral to name a few. Spotted eagle rays, squirrel fish, banner fish, scorpion fish and lobsters could be found living amongst most reefs. The occasional sea turtle and whale are often spotted when you take the plunge into the deep sea.

Maldives has been recognised as one of the premier sites for scuba diving. The warm, clear waters and the marine ecosystem in the country provide the perfect setting for scuba diving. The 26 atolls are home to a number of species and colourful coral reefs. The major dive sites in Maldives include Banana Reef, Broken Rock, Fesdhoo Wreck, HP Reef, Guraidhoo Kandu and Safari Island. There are many more locations that you could visit, since the different atolls have a range of coral reefs to explore. Visitors who are not familiar with scuba diving should try snorkelling. Snorkelling gear can be found in any of the resorts or diving schools in the country. Also it is an underwater activity that is safe and easy to learn. Most often a group of people will be with you during the sessions and you will have a guide to help you navigate the waters.

The diving environment is ideal all year long but there are some months such as June to August when the monsoon rains may get in the way. Nevertheless, you are sure to enjoy your underwater experience no matter what. Maldives resort offers diving packages. Look for accommodation in Maldives that includes underwater adventures because it will add to your vacation time in the country. Check out Anantara Dhigu Maldives for luxurious rooms, facilities and some great deals for underwater explorations.

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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Batticaloa Lighthouse

Also known as the Land of the singing fish, Batticaloa is a small town that harbours many wonders within it. The Batticaloa Lighthouse located near the estuary in Palameenmadu is one such gem that is a must-visit when in the region. Look for a Sri lanka Beach Resorts to lodge in during the stay and Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa is a recommended Sri Lanka resort located within the area ideal for a comfortable stay. Standing 28 metres high, this structure built in 1913 by the British makes a beautiful sight against the brilliant blue skies. Once on top, the visitors are treated to beautiful panoramic views of the scenic Batticoaloa district consisting of lush green hedges, whitest of sands and the bluest of oceans. Fondly referred to as the Muttuwaran lighthouse by the locals, a name that translates into “where the lagoon meets the sea”, it is located exactly where the lagoon meets the Indian ocean. Consisting of five windows and one observatory deck, the Batticaloa Lighthouse makes for a place not to be missed if one happens to be passing the region.

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. Google+

Yala National Park

Known to be the 2nd largest national park in the country, the Yala National Park comes across as a fascinating trek through dense jungle that holds a wealth of colourful species that warrant a visit. If you so wish to go on such a holiday in Sri Lanka, talk to Sri Lanka Holiday Travel known to offer similar holiday travel Sri Lanka is famed for.

Located in the southeast section of Sri Lanka, Yala covers 979 square kilometres and is decorated by beautiful fresh water lagoons. For the passionate nature lover, the park is home to the famous Sri Lanka leopard while there are over 130 species of birds that call at Yala. From elephants, sloth bears to wild buffaloes, the area is just filled with an abundance of life waiting to be explored. For those wanting to catch a glimpse of the national bird of the country which is the jungle fowl, Yala would be your go-to place.

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+

 

Adam’s Peak

A journey that commences at the village of Nallathanniya and leads to the magical surroundings of one of Sri Lanka’s tallest mountains which holds a special place in the hearts of many devotees. Adam’s Peak or ‘Sri Pada’ is located in close proximity to the ‘City of Gems’ and is one such escapade you must experience. Take the trip as part of your holiday in Sri Lanka. Indulge in holiday travel Sri Lanka has to offer by selecting Sri Lanka Holiday Travel as your guide.

Steeped in historical value, the mountain is 2,243 metres tall and showcases a footprint considered by Buddhists to be that of Lord Buddha. Muslims and Christians believe that it is the footprint of Adam while Hindus state that it resembles the print of Siva. Many endemic species can be seen when climbing the mountain but it is the sunset that one should look out for.

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+

Uncover a Birding Paradise in Emerald Isle Sri Lanka

Regarded as one of the best holiday destinations in Asia for bird watching enthusiasts the tropical wonderland known as Sri Lanka offers birders a wealth of opportunities to witness winged beauties in their natural habitat. Home to more than 400 bird species, a whopping 56 varieties of which are indigenous to the island, Sri Lanka is also home to 26 endemic species that inhabit the country’s lush environs. Blessed with sunny skies and warm weather all year round the country is a holiday home for many migratory bird species as well. Easy to navigate bird watching opportunities in the country are mainly concentrated around wildlife sanctuaries that are littered with winged beauties hailing from native lands and foreign countries alike.

The Udawatta Kele Bird Sanctuary is one of the county’s most popular birding hubs. Visitors can hope to observe stunners the likes of Black Capped Bulbuls, Layard’s Parakeets, Chestnut-Headed Bee Eaters and Sri Lankan Hanging Parrots here along with Emerald Doves, Tickells’s Blue Fly Catchers and three types of Kingfishers. The Kithulgala Forest Reserve on the other hand is home to Ceylon Blue Magpies, Frog Mouths, Red faced Malkohas, and Oriental Dwarf Kingfishers while the Kandalama Sanctuary’s 55 acre jungles are home to 1/3 of the birdlife in the country which comes to around 145 bird varieties.

The Knuckles mountain range is spread out across 12 miles and is home to more than 120 species including Dusky-Blue Flycatchers, Yellow-Eared Bulbuls, Yellow-Fronted Barbets, Ceylon Lorikeets, and Ceylon Grackles. Aquatic birds are visible from November to March in the Kalmateiya Bird Sanctuary while the Bodhihingala’s rain forests are teeming with nearly 150 species including the indigenous Legge’s Flowerpeckers, Spot-winged Thrushes, Sri Lanka Spurfowls as well as endangered birds such as the Green-billed Coucal. Indian Blue Robins and Large Cuckooshrikes are also common here while the Sinharaja Forest Reserve in the country’s Sabaragamuwa District boasts lush landscapes littered with Jungle Fowls, Ceylon Bay Owls, Blue Magpies, Crimson Backed Woodpeckers, and Black-crested Bulbuls. White Headed Starlings, Rufous Babblers, and Scimitar Babblers are also found in the nature reserve in addition to Crested Honey Buzzards, Ceylon Green Pigeons, and Hawk Eagles.

Travellers on the lookout for the best Sri Lanka Tours this year should consult Elegant Travels before making reservations. To make your travel Sri Lanka truly memorable, choose from this reputed name in the hospitality industry pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable vacations in the pearl of the Indian Ocean.

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.

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Sacred Heart Cathedral

Presenting an elegant silhouette against the mundane Guangzhou skyline of skyscrapers are the airy spires of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, one of the most majestic enclaves of Christian worship to be found in the city. This magnificent spiritual monument is one amongst many enchanting sites that decorate Guangzhou’s landscape, and a range of quality serviced apartments Guangzhou has to offer its many visitors await your perusal. Perhaps the Ascott IFC Guangzhou may charm you with its chic interiors and central location, which make a Guangzhou serviced apartment here an ideal choice for corporate and leisure visitors. The Sacred Heart Cathedral, also known as the Shishi Sacred Heart Cathedral occupies a prominent position on the north bank of the Pearl River, right in the heart of the lively and legendary Haizhu district. It was founded in 1863 and brought to completion in 1888 to coincide with the Feast of the Sacred Heart, which gives it its name. Composed entirely of granite, this impressive edifice is also known as the “Stone Cathedral”. When viewed from across the street, you will feel transported to Catholic bastion of Rome, such is the elegant air of the cathedral. After you enter through the arched doors, your breath will be taken away by the soaring pillars that meet at the lofty ceilings above. The beautiful stained glass windows decorating the walls of the cathedral present a multi-hued glimpse into some of the most iconic moments framing Christian lore. Beloved by local Catholics and international visitors, the cathedral is a stunning historical landmark that must be experienced at least once when your travels bring you to the city.

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 intends to visit them all someday.

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Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Covering the southeast corner of the Western Ghats, the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala functions as a haven of wildlife conservation and was set up way back in the day in 1958. Famed for its thick vegetation, travellers to Kerala can visit the sanctuary by staying at a Kerala resort nearby. Poovar Island Resort which is a 3 star hotel in Kerala will be your starting point from where you can savour the sights of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Possessing the perfect balance of flora and fauna, the sanctuary houses deer and elephant rehabilitation centres and the latter gives visitors a chance to feed its elephants and go on elephant rides. Incorporated in 1977, the Crocodile Farm attracts large crowds who arrive to witness its 20 mugger crocodiles. Housing leopards, sloth bears to various species of fish and reptiles, this attraction should never be missed if you are in Kerala.

 

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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Whale Watching in Maldives- An exciting excursion

Maldives is one of the top five destinations to go on whale watching. If you are looking for exciting things to do during your holiday in this breathtaking island, make sure that you have a whale watching tour included in your travel itinerary. Travellers looking for a Maldives resort can head down to Velassaru Maldives which is incorporated with all modern amenities. This Maldives island hotel is a home away from home, to get back after an exhausted day out in Maldives. Take a comfortable safari boat tour to watch rare types of whales including blue whales, sperm whales, pilot whales and melon-headed whales. Warm clear waters and the perfect sunny weather in Maldives are a perfect combination for all the holiday makers visiting this top tourist destination with the hope of having a good time.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

Hiking in Langkawi

For outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a little quiet time in the great outdoors to commune with nature, Langkawi is the perfect place to let your inner tree-hugger run wild. Make sure you secure accommodation that is also nature-friendly at a stylish Langkawi beach resort, and the choices are limitless. One possible option of a 5 star hotel in Langkawi can be discovered at the Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa, an ideal option to host your getaway into the lush Malaysian wilderness. A hiker’s paradise will be discovered along the winding paths of the area’s highest mountains, Gunung Raya and Mount Mat Cincang. The Gunung Raya area boasts an immense expanse of around 5,000 hectares, more than ample ground in which get to work your hikers’ feet off to the limit of endurance. You’ll be absolutely enchanted and transported to another era at the foot paths and trails that meander around the island, as they are home to gigantic trees that are centuries, if not millennia, old, shaded by a large and graceful canopies over head. You will also encounter an immensely vibrant array of local wildlife and flora to grace your digital camera. Avian enthusiasts will marvel at over 230 bird species dotting the forest range, flanked by over 400 species of tree. A wonderful trek can be found at the Lubuk Semilag Park in Gunung Raya and the reverse, started from the peak is a little easier to handle. Mount Mat Cincang’s trail starts at the Pantai Kok enclave, which will take you through some amazing settings as it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage geoparks collection. Trekkers and hikers are advised to secure the services of an experienced guide, as there have been reports of hikers who have gotten lost en route.

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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