River Cruises to Ayutthaya: Where Culture and Tranquility Intertwine

The city of Ayutthaya, the capital of the province of Ayutthaya in Thailand is a city encapsulated with historic importance and is fondly known as the Venice of the East as well. The city is located in the valley of the Chao Phraya River and tourists often opt to make an excursion to the city to visit its temples such as the Wat Chai Mongkol, the Wat Phra Sanphet and the Wat Mongkhon Bophit.

There are a number of ways of exploring a city of such historic importance, but a river cruise is truly one of the best ways to see it up close. Travelers have the option of selecting a luxury cruise or the economical choice of a converted rice barge to do so. One of the most popular cruises is the River Sun cruise which allows you to arrive back in Bangkok from Wat Chong Lom Pier. The cruise lasts for around three hours and allows patrons to witness the pristine beauty of the river and observe the routine life styles of the locals living along the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

Another cruise, the Grand Pearl, takes its patrons through the provinces of Pathumthani and Nonthaburi. In addition, it allows you to take in the sights of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Dawn as well. the 4 days RV River Kwai Cruise takes river cruises to another level altogether with a number of stops along the bank to enjoy activities such as elephant rides, hiking and even shopping as well as lectures on the historical and cultural importance of the sites that are passed while on board, are made. Of course, each of these cruises is complete sumptuous buffet lunches featuring a variety of cuisines that is sure to set your taste buds tingling in epicurean delight.

For Bangkok cruises to the city of Ayutthaya which encapsulates the luxury that you deserve, opt for Anantara cruises Thailand which is a three day excursion passing the Royal Barges Boat House, Temple of Dawn and many other historic landmarks. Opt for this Bangkok cruise tour and allow its exquisitely luxurious converted rice barges complete with delectable meals and personalized service, cater to your every need.

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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Short Break Hong Kong: So Much to Do, So Little Time

Visiting Hong Kong for a short stay or spending a few hours in the city before catching your next flight? Instead of choosing to spend that time in the airport, step out and experience Hong Kong at its best. Once you land in Hong Kong, make your way to the Airport Express Train through which one can access the Hong Kong Central Station in just below half an hour. Alternatively, one can choose to travel via the double-decker Airbus which is operational even at night. Once in the city, one can choose between taking the ferry and opting for the underground train service, buses or trams.

For tourists travelling with families, the Ocean Park is filled with an exciting array of sights, activities and games that will keep both children and their parents entertained. The Ocean Park is home to a shark tunnel, a butterfly house as well as a large marine theatre and is complete with a number of games and rides. Visitors to this marine park also have the opportunity of seeing pandas and killer whales. Finally, wrap it all up with an exhilarating roller coaster ride that will send thrills up your spine! Another ideal attraction would be Hong Kong’s Disneyland where children could take a ride to Tarzan’s Tree house, watch the Festival of the Lion King and even meet their favourite Disney movie characters!

For those who wish to immerse themselves in the hybrid culture prevalent in the city, a visit to the temples hidden away in street corners and tucked away in the hills would surely provide you with much needed moments of peace and tranquillity. Alternatively, one could opt to get away from the hustle and bustle of a city that never sleeps by climbing Victoria’s Peak for the view at the summit of the mountain, of Kowloon, Hong Kong and the Victoria Harbour will surely be worth the climb.

For those who love shopping, the Temple Street Night Market is an experience like no other where various trinkets, souvenirs and unique clothing can be found for extremely low prices. One could also opt to make the most of a short stay by taking a two hour harbour cruise to enjoy the sights of the city from a unique point of view or explore Macau, the oldest European Settlement in this part of the world which is also a World Heritage Site.

Luxury hotels in the city are as varied as the activities and attractions available ranging from modest accommodation to five star hotels. For the discerning traveller, choosing to stay at one of the Peninsula hotels provides you with finest accommodation, the most diverse dining options and the best service in the city.

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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Skating in Abu Dhabi

Until recent times, the scorching day time temperatures of Abu Dhabi made any formation of large bodies of frozen water an extreme improbability. But for this city that extracts black gold from its sands to become one of the wealthiest cities in the world, the improbable is not impossible! The Ice Rink of the Zayed Sports City is an example of how such deeds can happen in this oasis at the edge of the Empty Quarter.

The ice rink is one of two in the country, and is the largest of them, with a capability of seating 1,200 people. Recreational skating times are open to the public while time slots are allocated for ice hockey and figure skating teams. The rink is becoming an increasingly popular attraction with not just tourists but locals as well, many of whom have never even laid eyes on snow. The special ‘Learn to Skate’ programme offers coached lessons – individual and group – for beginners of all ages. Although you may fall down a couple of time in the precarious edges of skates, a few lessons with professionals are sure to have you gliding on ice, like it was second nature.

Once you are on your feet and moving smoothly, skating enthusiasts can try out figure skating. The Abu Dhabi Figure Skating Team, based at the rink, teaches the artful yet athletic movements to members. They can prepare you for the Desert Open Figure Skating Championship and other such local and international competitions or just appreciate the graceful musical interpretations for fitness.

The gigantic structure of Zayed Sports City is also where you will find the Abu Dhabi Ice Sports Club, an amateur group of ice hockey players. The youth programmes are open for youngsters with all levels of skill to learn and enjoy one of the fastest and most exhilarating sports in the world. Skating in the Olympic size rink will transport all from the blazing heat of the desert into a winter wonderland.

This and other wonders of the Middle East can be enjoyed in style if you stay at one of the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East. These elegant and luxurious Middle East hotels provide an ideal setting for exploring the exotic and extravagant region. Situated in convenient locations these properties are ideal for travellers in search of well placed UAE hotels for business or leisure.

Exploring Nature Trails in Dambulla

Located in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Dambulla is an area which not only has a rich cultural heritage, but one which is blessed with stunning natural beauty. Those looking for Sri Lanka hotels in the region can stay at Heritance Kandalama, an awe-inspiring example of eco-friendly hotel design. Belonging to Heritance Hotels & Resorts, this unique Sri Lanka hotel is set amidst lush green landscapes and is an ideal starting point to embark on your adventures.

These Dambulla trails go through the wilderness and forests and let you not only witness the beauty of nature, but also indulge in some fun activities such as bird watching. Also worth exploring while in Dambulla are the Rose Quartz Mountain range and the ancient Iron Wood Forest.

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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Kottawa Rainforest Reserve

Sprawled across 37 acres in the heart of the emerald isle’s southern coast, lies one of its most secluded nature reserves. Located along the road to Udugama this tranquil quarter of Galle in Sri Lanka is known as the Kottawa Rainforest Reserve and serves as one of the island’s most verdant lowland rainforests. Travellers to the region in search of luxurious Galle hotels can choose Jetwing Lighthouse for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests the best in modern amenities in the ‘Down South’ area of the island, this stylish rest is one of the finest Sri Lanka hotels on the coastal belt.

Relatively unknown to the visiting multitudes to the island, the isolated Kottawa Rainforest Reserve is well worth the visit for nature lovers in search of breathtaking natural beauty off the beaten track.

Displaying all the features of a lowland rainforest, the area’s vegetation mainly consists of wet evergreen trees that tower above the canopies of other plants that struggle to feed off the sun’s ray due to the dense foliage above. The lack of sunlight penetrating the lower reaches of the rainforest has lead to a great propagation of Dipterocarpus variety plants and other fern species which occupy the forest bed in addition to orchids that depend on large tree trunks for nourishment.

An impressive 170 species of trees are believed to inhabit the Kottawa Rainforest Reserve of which a hundred have been identified as those endemic to Sri Lanka alone. More than 80 non-endemic tree species are also found in the rainforest and have been labelled with their botanical name for easy identification. As a part of the Kottawa Kombala Conservation Forest which occupies an impressive 1,800 hectares, the Kottawa Rainforest and Arboretum is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts touring Galle; the Kottawa Arboretum showcases well over 70 species of winged beauties from all across the world.

The endemic bird species which have been identified to number around a dozen include the spot-winged thrush, yellow-fronted barbet, grey hornbill, brown-capped babbler and the Sri Lankan spurfowl. Stunning butterflies are another attraction at the venue as Tree Nymph, Birdwing and Blue Oakleaf butterflies are abundantly found here. Giant squirrels, purple-faced leaf monkeys and toque monkeys are also frequently spotted in addition to non-venomous Sri Lankan snake varieties and lizards.

Dart Stables- Gear up and ride across the valley

Queenstown is one of the top holiday destinations in New Zealand and its perfect picturesque landscapes will make you realize why it is considered so. Make your holiday a relaxed and a peaceful one by finding a convenient Queenstown hotel accommodation which promises you all modern comforts. Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is one such New Zealand Queenstown hotel recommended by most of the travellers to the city. The best way to explore the scenic beauty of Queenstown is by riding across Glenorchy and Te Wahipounamu on a horseback. Dart Stable is popular among the travellers to the city for offering unforgettable memories of horse riding. You can watch horses of numerous breeds at the Dart Stable while riding across exciting treks in Queenstown.

Family Adventures

When you are looking for a family getaway this vacation, there cannot be any place better than Family Adventures in Queenstown. The place has numerous activities in offer to keep the whole family occupied and content. Ideally located Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview provides perfect Queenstown hotel accommodation for the holidaymakers who are looking for convenient hotel within the vicinity of the city’s many attractions. This New Zealand Queenstown hotel offers a luxurious stay and a peaceful sanctuary after tiring outdoor adventure pursuits. You can engage in sightseeing trips, adventurous excursions such as rafting and cycling. Sightseeing in Queenstown is an exciting activity as the city is steeped with history. Family Adventures will promise you a memorable visit to Queenstown.

Duolun Culture Street- Cultural Awakening

Duolun Street in Shanghai was originally constructed in the early 20th century and went by the name of a long forgotten British missionary. It came into its own in the 1920s and 30s when the writer Lu Xun and other progressive writers of the time like Mao Dun, Guo Moruo and Ding Ling moved into the area gathering other similar literary types around them making the street a cultural and literary centre. Doulun Street was opened to the public as Culture Street in 1998 and is the place that people come to, to find links with China’s pre revolutionary cultural scene. Located north of the Bund the once lavish homes and shops in this 8 km stretch have been refurbished and cars have been banned so that it is now a lovely pedestrian area of bookshops, tea houses, antique shops, galleries and historic homes. The Duolun Museum of Modern Art is there as is a 1920s Christian church with upturned eaves, the old film café that shows Chinese movies of the 1920s and 30s, the League of Leftist Writers Museum with the hall where the league was founded restored to its original condition and a mid 1920s mansion of a fabulously wealthy Shanghai entrepreneur are all in the neighbourhood.

The street is also famous for a variety of architectural styles ranging from Islamic to French Neo Classical to traditional Chinese styles and a fusion of eastern and western styles typical of the 1920s and 30s. Life size bronze statues of individuals who contributed to the areas heritage are found everywhere in all kinds of poses as if they are participating in the life going on around them. An outdoor museum of sorts, it is an interesting place to spend some time learning about Shanghai’s literary roots away from the tourist hordes.

Stay at the 88 Xintiandi Shanghai to enjoy a unique location amidst a thriving shopping, dining and entertainment district just outside Shanghai with easy access to the city. The well-appointed studio, one and two bedroom suites offer some of the most contemporary and comfortable residences in Shanghai, a boon to modern travelers looking for longer stays and a place to unwind. Guests at this Shanghai boutique hotel find this an excellent place from which to explore the big city.

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Cardrona Adventure Park

Located halfway between Queenstown and Wanaka in New Zealand, on the Cardrona Valley, the Cardrona Adventure Park guarantees fun for the whole family. With so many activities ranging from quad bikes, buggy and monster truck rides, visitors whether amateurs or veterans, will love the energetic experience of the park. There is something for everyone here. The park is open from 10.00 am to 5 pm every day, and all you need to bring along is sturdy footwear. Be dressed in appropriate clothes for the ride, and bring along your excitement of course!

The drive to the park itself is a beautiful experience. You will have a view of the magnificent crown range of hills. The drive of about 40 minutes although long is a picturesque journey.

With various rides catering to the skill level and physical abilities of participants, there is indeed something for everyone. Children and adults alike will enjoy the Cardrona experience. Children as young as six years can drive their own quad bikes, while most adults have a tendency to like the famous snow run experience.

If you prefer a more scenic experience then the park offers rides over water, mud and snow on the drastic hills. Or maybe you would like to try one of the adrenalin pumping all terrain action rides meant for thrill seeking adventure junkies. Monster trucks and off road vehicles are also renowned experiences of the park mostly among those who just cannot get enough.

Queenstown makes an ideal base from which to visit this attraction. The city is renowned for its beautiful sceneries surrounded by the majestic mountains and Lake Wakatipu, country like atmosphere and clear skies, but above all for the warmth of its hospitality. Excitement, peace and serenity all packed into one city; what more can you ask for while on vacation.

If you wish to retire to a luxury hotel Queenstown after all those scream inducing rides and thrills then look no further than Millennium Hotel Queenstown. This Queenstown hotel, is well known for its luxurious accommodation and star class service standards. It is the ideal place to stay at for the traveller in need of a little pampering, at the end of a long day of sightseeing and excitement.

Bird Watching in the Maldives- Taking Wing

While the Maldives is celebrated for its amazing diversity of marine life, due to its location far away from a large landmass and its small size the Maldives does not have an abundance of its own avifauna. Most birds found on the islands are Eurasian migratory birds and therefore are seasonal while some are typical of the region and a few are found among the vegetation and marshes of the various islands.

According to bird checklists around 165 varieties of birds inhabit the islands from time to time. Some rare and threatened varieties of birds that visit the islands intermittently include the Feruginous Duck, Jouanin’s Petrel, Spot Billed Pelican, Pallid Harrier, Black Tailed Godwit, the Lesser Kestrel and the Eurasian Curlew. The common Mynah and the House Sparrow that are visible on the larger islands are listed as introduced species. Among the commonest birds spied in the Maldives are the crow, the koel with its distinctive cry and the white breasted water hen found nesting under low bushes. While the large grey heron is also a common sight several other species of heron are also glimpsed from time to time. Two types of frigate birds are known to use the Maldives as their breeding grounds. Two species of noddies, several species of terns, the Audubon’s shearwater and the white tailed tropic bird are also to be found here during breeding time. Addu Atoll in the south of the Maldives is known as a nesting ground for the fairy tern.

For keen bird watchers the best way to see pelagic birds in the Maldives is to take a trip out to sea with fishermen who locate shoals of tuna by identifying concentrations of sea birds feeding on shrimp and small fish chased to the top by the big fish hunting below. Birding tours organized as part of the live aboard experience is also another wonderful way to view tropical pelagic birds and migrants from the palaearctic eco zone. The most rewarding time to view these birds may be during the spring and autumn migrations when a whole variety of birds can be spotted. Early mornings are also a good time to view birds as they are most active and noisy at this time. Due to its small size bird watchers in the Maldives may need to visit several locations to see a variety of avifauna.

For anyone thinking of pristine white beaches, sun, warm blue sea, gorgeous marine life, privacy and sublime accommodation then Cocoa Island Maldives is the place to be. Enjoy well appointed spacious contemporary villas and suites with wonderful ocean views at this Maldives luxury hotel as well as tasteful Asian fusion cuisine, rejuvenating holistic spa treatments and blissful days in total relaxation. Head to this exceptional Maldives resort for that much dreamed of vacation.

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.

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