Elephants in Sri Lanka

An iconic animal, elephants in Sri Lanka are very much a part of the island’s identity. However, conservation efforts are vital if these gentle giants are to survive.

Image credit- Pixabay,photoliver,CC0

Endemic Species
The largest subspecies of the Asian elephant, the Sri Lankan Elephant (Elephas maximus maximus) is endemic to the island. While the country was once home to around 20,000 elephants, currently there are only about 5,000 some of which can be seen on a safari tour in Sri Lanka.

Elephant Safaris
National parks including those at Minneriya, Yala, Udawalawe and Kaudulla are ideal for elephant safaris organised by tour specialists such as Walkers Tours. One of the key elephant hotspots is Minneriya where between June and September you can witness “The Gathering” that features hundreds of elephants in and around the park’s reservoir.

Human-Elephant Conflict
Sadly, due to the expansion of human habitation and the loss of natural habitats, the human-elephant conflict has claimed many lives, mostly elephants. Farmers and villagers look to protect their crops and lands, while elephants are driven to find food and water; this deadly cycle continues every year. Throw illegal poaching into the mix and you will see why elephant conservation is vital.

Conservation Efforts
Amongst the efforts being made to conserve this endangered animal is the introduction of tougher penalties for those harming or poaching wild elephants. Other initiatives include using electrical fences or infrared alarm systems to keep out elephants from human habitations without harming them and the proposed setting up of Managed Elephant Reserves (MER). Hopefully, such efforts will help in conserving these majestic animals.

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+

 

Exploring Doha in one day

As Doha is increasingly becoming popular as the hub for international travelers, many of them have one day in Doha and cover everything it has to offer within that one day. It is possible, but with proper planning.

Image by: https://www.tivolihotels.com/en/souq-waqif-doha

Use taxis

To get around Doha in one day, you will mostly have to rely on taxis, and this is the best option too. Taxis are relatively cheap and even if you want to travel in between hotels in Doha, for your business visits, this mode is ideal.

The Museum of Islamic Art- a must visit

The Museum of Islamic Art which is also known as the MIA is a place that you must not miss at any cost during your one day in Doha. A 09-minute drive away from hotels such as Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels By Tivoli, this is an iconic piece of architecture, that tourists fall in love with.

Take a Dhow Cruise

Doha skyline is another must-see sight here and a good way to see this is by taking a Dhow Cruise. A Dhow is a traditional wooden boat in the region which now provide tourists with leisure cruises.

A visit to Souq Waqif

Souq Waqif means the standing market- and indeed the number one Doha tourist attraction. If you are thinking of ending your day with a good dinner here, it is, of course, a good choice!

 

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

The World Heritage Town of Laos: Luang Prabang

The colonial architecture seen at the Buddhist temples, which are surrounded by the forested mountains is the main attraction. The Mekong River that borders the west side of the town is another alluring feature.

Temples

There are 34 temples dotting the town of Laos, and why they hold interest for tourists comes down to the amazing architecture. The temples are designed in the Chinese style, and they draw thousands to the town.

Allie Caulfield, Wat Mahathat temple (Laos2009), CC BY 2.0

Artwork

Laos is all about ancient art. The wood carvings, murals and pottery work hold the town above other destinations as a fetching travel destination. The town’s cultural features caused the town to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1995.

Accommodation

The town is a magnet for tourists. Thousands of history and cultural enthusiasts visit the town all year round. Finding lodgings at a hotel Luang Prabang will not prove to be challenging, not with the likes of Avani+ Luang Prabang at your disposal.

Image Credit: Avani+ Luang Prabang

Transport

There are direct routes between Laos and other major cities like Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Vientiane. You can travel by air or opt for boat services; both options are in full availability.

 

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+

Top Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a small island nation with a larger than life personality. The people and the places are so vibrant and full of life that you will never feel bored. Here is a set of reasons why.

Image by: pen_ash via pixabay | CC0

The Heritage and the History

The history of Sri Lanka harkens back 2000 years, the myriad of kingdoms was rich and advanced, especially around the Cultural Triangle that was home to the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Kandy. Each kingdom has left its mark on the land and it will baffle you.

The Sun, the Sea, the Sand

Sri Lanka is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Most inbound tour operators in Sri Lanka have found that tourists will almost always add a beach as part of their tour. It’s not to be missed.

Wildlife and Nature Resorts

Sri Lanka has a large population of wildlife including many animals that are endemic to the island. Explore the nature reserves and go on a dolphin or whale hunting mission. With operators like Tangerine Tours, the opportunities are endless.

Delicious Cuisine

Sri Lankan food comes in large portions and is always as colourful, vibrant and flavourful as its people.

The Diversity

Sri Lankans are a mishmash of people from various cultures, ethnicities and religions. They get along in harmony and are magnanimous in their hospitality to visiting guests.

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+

What is Doha Nightlife Like?

Although Qatar is a Middle Eastern country, it has always had differences when compared to other countries in the region. People are very open-minded here and this may be due to the combined population of Europeans and Americans who live here. It’s truly a country of freedom.

Doha Nightlife
Needless to say, Doha is not only rich in its natural gasses and oil sources, but the nightlife here is quite happening too. Visit hotels in Doha Qatar on one fine evening and pop into one of their pubs or night clubs located closeby for an experience of a lifetime!

Alcohol is fine with tourists
Due to religious reasons, alcohol consumption is restricted in Doha, but this does not apply to foreign tourists. Properties the likes of Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli are popular among tourists and bars at such hotels do have alcohol for their guests.

Nightclubs are also there
Nightclubs in Doha are only permitted in the territory of hotels and resorts in the country. Even if you don’t stay at a hotel in the area, you can still enjoy its nightclub with cocktails and famous DJ shows.

Things to keep in mind
If you plan to visit a nightclub in Doha, keep in mind every nightclub closes its doors after 2.00 AM in the morning, and where ever you go to enjoy the nightlife, it is always better to have your ID and passport with you to avoid any hassles.