Just a short distance south of Sri Lanka, the Maldives’ white sandy shores and swaying palms grace the waters of the Indian Ocean. With over 1,000 islands, 26 coral atolls and over a million visitors annually, the Maldives is a must-visit destination for anyone craving the sun, sand and sea.
Aside from the essentials of lightweight clothing and eco-friendly sun protection, your packing list depends on your itinerary. Keen snorkelling and diving enthusiasts might want to bring an underwater camera, or essential gear if necessary. Check with your accommodation or dive centre and see whether any excursion equipment is provided, as some Maldives scuba diving resorts include gear as a part of the underwater packages, such as Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Maldives.
Resort Islands Vs. Local Islands
What you pack may also depend on where you stay. Compared to resort islands, local islands and guesthouses are fairly more conservative, with modest dress codes for public beaches and religious sites. Be sure to bring a cover-up or long-sleeved clothing just in case.
Getting Around The Maldives
Unlike most destinations, the archipelago rarely relies on land travel, with almost all islands accessible only via seaplane and speedboat, with the occasional domestic flights. As multiple transfers can get expensive, consider picking a resort or island that already comes equipped with the amenities and activities you seek.
When to Visit
Lastly, although the Maldives is a year-round tropical getaway, the best months to visit would be from November to April, when the skies are clearer and there is a lower chance for rainfall. However, as it is peak season, the prices are higher and potential crowds are larger, so be sure to check for any hotel deals and discounts during off-season months.
Jet Skiing in the Maldives: All You Need to Know for an Adventure on the Water
If you are vacationing in the Maldives and are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure out on the waters surrounding the nation’s islands, jet skiing should be at the top of your list. Here are some of the key tips and information about jet skiing in the Maldives that you need to know.
Jet skiing is undoubtedly one of the most fun activities to enjoy in the Maldives. But it also has several benefits for your body. These include increasing blood circulation, burning calories and strengthening muscles.
Styles of Riding
There are two main ways of riding a jet ski – sitting down or standing up – depending on the style of jet ski you are using. Stand-up jet skiing is the tougher option and requires a higher learning curve and level of balance. On the other hand, sit-down jet skiing is much easier for beginners to grasp and the relevant jet skis for this are widely available.
Best Places to Jet Ski in the Maldives
The best thing about jet skiing in the Maldives is that there are several places to enjoy it. These include the North and South Male Atolls, Ari Atoll, Laamu Atoll and Lhaviyani Atoll. Since it is one of the more popular activities to do in the Maldives you can find jet ski activities and excursion opportunities through your hotel or resort.
Safety and Regulations
While jet skiing is all about having fun, it is important to stick to stay safe by following the right rules and regulations. If you are staying at any of theAdaaran Resorts, you can make an inquiry about general guidelines, but here are some essential tips to remember;
Make sure to have safety gear and life jackets before going out on the water
Stay clear of people in the water
Use the jet skis responsibly and avoid pushing the limits
Be mindful of wildlife you may encounter and be sure not to harm them
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Khao Kheow Open Zoo offers a unique adventure amidst the wild wonders of Thailand. Located within easy reach of Sri Racha city, this sprawling site with its naturalistic habitats allows you to encounter some of the most exotic animals in the world.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo is situated in Bang Phra, easily accessible on a day trip from properties like Somerset Harbourview Sri Racha. The zoo is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and families based at 2 bedroom apartments in Sri Racha should look to arrive early since there’s so much to see. You can explore the site in your own car, hop on a tram ride, or rent a self-drive golf cart.
Why You Need to Visit
Home to over 300 species, Khao Kheow Open Zoo showcases majestic animals including tigers, elephants, lions, monkeys and much more including the famous Moodeng who’s taking Instagram by storm, in settings that mimic their natural environments. Visitors, especially kids, will love the chance to feed certain animals like giraffes and deer, making for an interactive and educational experience that’s hard to match.
Diverse Sections to Explore
Don’t miss the African Savanna section, where you can spot rhinos, zebras, and ostriches. Feed the deer at Eld’s Deer Park, or marvel at the mighty tiger in the Cats Complex. Lemur Land offers an up-close encounter with ring-tailed lemurs, while Wildlife Wonderland features animals such as koalas from Australia and African seals, making every step an adventure.
Other Highlights to Enjoy
The zoo’s walk-through aviary is home to over 80 species of birds, set amidst scenic landscapes with streams and waterfalls. Be sure to catch the daily shows, with the Elephant Swimming Show offering a rare glimpse of elephants underwater. The Penguin Parade is another favourite, where these adorable creatures waddle right past you, leaving kids in awe!
Dubai is a city where skyscrapers touch the clouds and the desert whispers stories of old. Amidst its stunning architecture and luxurious lifestyle, a vibrant art scene flourishes, inviting both locals and tourists to explore the transformative power of creativity. From modern galleries showcasing groundbreaking works to public art installations that add flair to the urban landscape, Dubai is a testament to the belief that art can inspire, challenge, and connect us all.
Located near many luxury hotels in Dubai, such as the well-known La Suite Dubai Hotel & Apartments, this contemporary arts hub is home to a myriad of galleries, artist studios, and creative spaces. With its eclectic mix of exhibitions, Alserkal Avenue pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Dubai Design District (d3)
A thriving creative community, d3 is a hub for designers and artists. Here, public art installations blend seamlessly with innovative architecture, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
The Third Line Gallery
One of the leading contemporary art galleries in Dubai, The Third Line showcases a diverse range of Middle Eastern artists. With thought-provoking exhibitions and a commitment to promoting regional talent, it’s a cornerstone of Dubai’s art community.
Art Dubai
As the leading international art fair in the Middle East, Art Dubai brings together galleries from around the world, featuring contemporary artworks, photography, and installations. This annual event is a celebration of creativity, attracting art lovers and collectors alike.
Zawyeh Gallery
With locations in both Dubai and Ramallah, Zawyeh Gallery offers a platform for emerging and established Palestinian artists. The gallery showcases a wide array of contemporary works, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and resilience of Palestinian artistry. It’s a must-visit for those interested in exploring art that tells powerful stories of identity and tradition.
The Dubai Canal, a remarkable artificial waterway, stretches for 3.2 kilometres, transforming the city’s urban landscape and connecting the vibrant Downtown Dubai area to the Arabian Gulf. This architectural marvel not only serves as a functional waterway but also offers a scenic route adorned with pedestrian bridges, charming walkways, and leisure zones.
Reaching the Boardwalk
The Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk is easily accessible from various points along the canal. Located near Sheikh Zayed Road, it can be reached by public buses, taxis, or your own vehicle. Ferries and water taxis also operate along the canal, making it easily reachable from the best luxury hotels in Dubai no matter what mode of transport you choose.
What You Should Know
The Dubai Canal is a hub of activity, featuring cycling lanes, footpaths, running tracks and seating areas along its scenic expanse. Powered by solar energy, its eco-friendly design includes streetlights and convenient charging stations for keeping devices powered while enjoying the view. The canal boasts nine marine stations, offering ferries, water taxis, dhow cruises, and abras (a traditional boat) which are ideal if you want to get a unique perspective of the city.
The Waterfall Display
Located on the Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge at Exit 4, the Dubai Canal Waterfall is a major attraction, drawing visitors with its dazzling show of water and lights in the evenings. The design of the waterfall is such that it is set to shut off automatically when a boat gets close. Consider dropping by to see this spectacle for yourself, as it makes a great excursion especially if you happen to be staying at centrally located properties like Paramount Hotel Midtown.
The Dubai Water Canal features five striking pedestrian bridges – and a few of them connect to either side of the canal. Among them, the Tolerance Bridge, named in honour of International Tolerance Day, stands out as the first suspended bridge of its kind in the United Arab Emirates. The other bridges connect Jumeirah Road, Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road.
The Taybeen Museum in Al Khobar offers a nostalgic journey that transports one back to the golden days of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. From vintage collectables to old memorabilia, this site is a treasure trove of items that evoke feelings of joy and connection.
Planning a Visit
Located in the charming city of Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia, close to Azizyh Beach, the Taybeen Museum is easily accessible by taxi or private car from properties like Somerset Downtown Al Khobar. It welcomes visitors from Monday to Wednesday and Saturday between 4:00 P.M and 10:00 P.M, while on Thursdays and Fridays, it stays open from 4.00 PM till 11:00 P.M. Note that it remains closed on Sundays.
An Amazing Personal Collection
The museum is a private venture by Majid Al Ghamdi, who began his collection in 1992 at just eight years old. What started as a hobby has blossomed into a 300-square-metre museum featuring over 10,000 items that stir nostalgia! From classic toys to retro memorabilia, the collection is a heartfelt reflection of simpler times, inviting all to step back in time.
Some of the Highlights
Those heading to this attraction from centrally located Al Khobar apartments can expect to find an eclectic mix of items from the 1970s to the 1990s, sparking memories of yesteryear. From Star Wars figurines and Sesame Street characters to old record tracks, candy packaging, posters, cameras and a display of the evolution of Coke bottles, this museum has it all!
Bringing People Together
Apart from offering a unique experience, the Taybeen Museum also helps to bring people together, regardless of background, through shared memories. The joy of reminiscing about a time when life was simpler creates a universal connection. Parents can also introduce their children to items from their own childhood, adding a beautiful generational bond to the visit.
Frankincense, a fragrant resin obtained from the Boswellia tree, has been treasured for centuries, more so in Oman’s region of Salalah than anywhere else. Its rich aroma and therapeutic properties have made it a staple in religious ceremonies, perfumes, and traditional medicine.
Salalah, located in Oman, is the heart of frankincense production. This region was once a vital stop on the ancient Incense Route, connecting the Arabian Peninsula with Mediterranean markets. Revered for its calming effects, frankincense has carved a niche in both spiritual and culinary realms. The milky resin was harvested and traded extensively, cementing Salalah’s role in the global economy of the past.
Frankincense Products at Al Husn Souq
Today, travellers can discover an array of frankincense products at Al Husn Souq, from incense and oils to skincare and culinary items, only a short distance from most Salalah hotels and resorts. Visit the colourful marketplace via excursions through Al Baleed Resort Salalah By Anantara, for a showcase of the versatility of frankincense, allowing visitors to take a piece of Salalah’s history home.
On The Hunt For the Resin
Visitors can also explore Salalah’s frankincense heritage through guided tours at Wadi Dawkah, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lush valley offers a glimpse into traditional harvesting techniques, where locals extract resin from the Boswellia trees. The tour provides insights into the significance of frankincense and its enduring cultural importance.
How Frankincense Made Its Way into Cuisine
In recent years, frankincense has found its way into culinary practices, adding unique flavours to dishes. Chefs incorporate the resin into marinades, desserts, and beverages, bridging the gap between ancient tradition and modern gastronomy. This innovative use underscores frankincense’s versatility, making it a celebrated ingredient in both savoury and sweet dishes.
Located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian peninsula, Oman is a natural and historical gem that offers intriguing experiences for the curious traveller. In particular, the country is abundant in historical treasures including UNESCO World Heritage sites, forts featuring traditional architecture and castles that still stand tall and imposing. Here are some of the most iconic historical places to visit in Oman.
Fort Nizwa
This is Oman’s most visited historical fort, abundant in exhibits and information that reveal the importance of the structure in the past. In addition to its exhibition halls, the fort features an armoury, a date store and a courtyard that are worth visiting.
This is yet another extensive defence fort that features complex engineering and architecture. The structure was built in the 13th century to allow the tribes in the area to survive and carry out their trade. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its impressive structure and engineering.
Birkat Al Mouz Ruins
These ruins are located in one of Oman’s most famous traditional villages not far from Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar. The site is filled with ruins amidst scenic surroundings, a nearby banana plantation and a backdrop of mountains and is worth a visit from your Oman resort.
Jabreen Castle
Known for its battlements and well-preserved structure, the Jabreen Castle is another of the popular historical sites in Oman. Built in 1675, the castle served as an education centre for medicine, astrology, and Islam. The castle still features two towers and large halls spread across three stories.
Shirokane, Tokyo’s verdant retreat, offers a breath of fresh air and a taste of tranquillity amid the city’s hustle and bustle. Here’s your guide to uncovering the district’s green gems for much-needed relaxation:
Experience the essence of traditional Japanese horticulture at Happo-en Garden, located just a 5-minute drive from executive apartments in Tokyo, such as the modern Oakwood Apartments Shirokane Tokyo. This exquisite space features serene koi ponds, a classic tea house, and a vibrant array of seasonal flora including cherry blossoms, bonsai, and maple trees. It’s a harmonious escape into nature’s beauty.
Explore the Institute for Nature Study
Located in Shirokanedai, this historical site reveals the area’s ancient past. Created by marine erosion up to 500,000 years ago, it houses artefacts from the mid-Jomon period, offering a glimpse into early human settlement and a deep connection to the region’s geological history.
Wander Down Platinum Street
True to its name, Shirokane’s Platinum Street dazzles with its majestic ginkgo trees, which are especially stunning in the fall. Start your journey at Shirokanedai Station and enjoy a peaceful walk along this tree-lined avenue, savouring the seasonal colours and serene atmosphere.
Cool Off at Shirokanedai Donguri Children’s Playground
This family-friendly park is a summer oasis with its refreshing rock pool and gentle water stream. Ideal for children to splash around and stay cool, the shaded areas ensure a pleasant playtime experience. It’s a short drive from Shirokane-Takanawa Station.
Relax in Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park
A cherished green space for both locals and expatriates, Arisugawa Park offers a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s bustling life. Once part of a samurai residence during the Edo era, it provides a historical touch and a serene environment close to Hiroo Station.
Ipoh, the capital city of Perak in Malaysia, is a hidden gem filled with history, culture, and architectural wonders. The Ipoh Heritage Trail offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s colonial past, its charming streets, and its eclectic blend of cultures. This self-guided walking tour through old Ipoh allows visitors to experience the city’s rich heritage up close. Let’s delve into the best way to explore Ipoh’s historic heart on foot.
Start at Ipoh Railway Station
Begin your trail at the iconic Ipoh Railway Station, often dubbed the “Taj Mahal of Ipoh” for its grand, Moorish-style architecture. Built in 1917, this building is a stunning example of British colonial architecture with its distinctive domes and arches. The railway station is not only a functional transport hub but also a historical landmark that has witnessed the evolution of Ipoh from a sleepy tin-mining town to a vibrant city. Take a moment to appreciate its old-world charm before setting off on your exploration.
Walk Towards the Town Hall and Old Post Office
Just a short walk from the railway station, you will find the Ipoh Town Hall and Old Post Office. These neoclassical buildings, with their stately columns and whitewashed facades, are reminders of Ipoh’s colonial past. Constructed in the early 20th century, they served as administrative centres during British rule. Today, they stand as a testament to Ipoh’s historical significance. The Town Hall is often used for cultural events, while the Old Post Office has been restored and repurposed as a community space.
Discover the Birch Memorial Clock Tower
Continue your journey to the Birch Memorial Clock Tower, erected in 1909 in memory of J.W.W. Birch, the first British Resident of Perak. This iconic clock tower features four panels depicting the evolution of civilization, with notable figures from different eras. While the monument has stirred some historical controversy, it remains an important landmark in Ipoh’s story. The clock tower stands as a central point in the town square, providing an excellent backdrop for photographs and a chance to reflect on the city’s colonial legacy.
Wander Down Concubine Lane
Next, make your way to Concubine Lane, just 10 minutes away from popular spots for staycation in Ipoh such as the famous city hotel Travelodge Ipoh, one of the most famous streets in Ipoh’s Old Town. This narrow lane, dating back to the late 19th century, is steeped in history and legend. It is said to have been a hideaway for the concubines of wealthy tin miners. Today, Concubine Lane has transformed into a vibrant area filled with quaint shops, cafes, street art, and market stalls selling local crafts and snacks. Take your time to stroll through the lane, soaking in the colourful atmosphere and admiring the beautifully preserved shophouses.
Explore Han Chin Pet Soo Museum
Your next stop is the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, located just a few minutes from Concubine Lane. This museum is housed in what was once a private club for Hakka miners, and it offers fascinating insights into Ipoh’s tin-mining history and the lives of the miners who shaped the city. The museum’s exhibits include artefacts, photographs, and stories that depict the everyday life, struggles, and successes of the early Chinese immigrants. A visit here will give you a deeper understanding of Ipoh’s cultural heritage and its significance as a tin-mining hub.
Conclude your heritage trail by exploring the Ipoh Mural Art Trail, a collection of street art scattered throughout the old town. These murals, created by local and international artists, depict scenes from Ipoh’s history, local culture, and everyday life. Highlights include works by Ernest Zacharevic, who is famous for his street art in Penang, and various other artists whose colourful creations add a modern twist to the city’s historic streets. Walking along the trail allows you to see how Ipoh’s past and present come together in a creative and engaging way.
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