Hot Air Balloon Adventures, a captivating excursion

There is no better way to take in the sights of the environs of Boulder than to take a hot air balloon excursion across the picturesque region. The experience of skimming over treetops and ascending high enough to enjoy sensational mountain views is an experience that will never be forgotten. The sheer exhilaration of enjoying the panoramic views and the excitement of riding a balloon will be the memory of a lifetime.

When selecting a Boulder hotel there is no better choice than the Millennium Harvest House Boulder. One of the outstanding Pearl Street hotels this fine accommodation never disappoints its clientele.

Links to the Past

Take the opportunity to visit the villages of Tenganan and Truniyan deep in the mountains of East Bali, the home of the Bali Aga said to be the original inhabitants of the island. See these isolated villages that had been cut off from the rest of Bali for a very long time and view an ancient civilization at work. Stone walls right round the villages kept intruders away. The only access was through four gates placed in each direction. With an ancient social system still in place individual property rights are not recognized here. The layout of all houses in the village of Tenganan follow a similar pattern with a flight of steps leading to a courtyard around which lie the sleeping quarters, kitchen and the store houses. A small space is set aside for a shrine where departed spirits may rest when they visit. The most surprising aspect is that the village of Tenganan is one of the richest in Bali owning huge tracts of fertile agricultural land that gives them abundant harvests, more than enough for their needs. This is also the only place that a dialect of the Balinese language is used.

Known for their special cloth dyeing and weaving techniques, the Bali Aga turn out complex tie and dye and double weave ‘ikat’ or ‘gerinsing’ cloth. Tenganan village is the only place that this complex weaving and cloth dying technique is practiced. The predominant colours here are red, neutral and black. With a deeply ingrained belief in the supernatural permeating every strata of society, the cloth is believed to have supernatural properties and is used in religious rites.

Tall, fair and slender in appearance the characteristic feature of the Bali Aga is their filed and blackened teeth. The superstitious say that they bring down the spirits of their ancestors through sacrifice and the bodies of their dead are left in the jungle to be carried away by spirits. They are ruled by a council of elders who also officiate as priests.

Among the many festivals and rituals of the Bali Aga is ‘mekare kare’ or ritual combat where participants use the serrated edges of pandan leaves to draw blood. These ritual fights are held during temple festivals and participants are well fortified with rice wine and fermented palm toddy beforehand. Those who draw blood first are the victors. Combatants defend themselves with wicker shields. All wounds are treated with traditional medicines.

Experience the incomparable beach location and the lavish, well appointed luxurious suites at Anantara Seminyak, Bali that sets the tone for a wonderful tropical holiday. Added advantages at these exceptional Bali resorts are their many excellent guest services that include pampering and soothing spa treatments at a wonderful rooftop location, some of the best dining options on the island with views to match and plenty of leisure activities to chose from; all ingredients that make up a wonderful holiday experience facilitated by this one of a kind Bali resort.

Enjoyable Outdoor Activities in Manila

The active visitor will find a multitude of outdoor activities to be enjoyed in Manila. Amongst these sightseeing is naturally a highlight in this historic city with prominent sites including the Malacanang Palace and Museum, Cultural Center of the Philippines and San Agustin Church. Shopping is a popular diversion in Manila with an array of merchandise on offer. Sports enthusiasts will not be at a loss as there are many sporting facilities in the Philippine capital.
Discerning visitors desiring a quality Manila hotel will be pleased by The Heritage Hotel Manila, an excellent hotel in Manila which offers well-furnished accommodations and attentive service.

Trek across Paradise in Emerald Isle Sri Lanka

Renowned the world over as one the most captivating holiday destinations in Asia, the isle that was once dubbed Serendib for its sheer beauty is still one of the most visited corners of the globe. Encompassing a wide range of geographically and topographically diverse attributes in each of its districts the island nation of Sri Lanka remains an unchartered paradise with pristine landscapes that resemble the Caribbean islands and the Scottish highlands all within its contours.
 
Famed the world over as a visual treasure trove for avid hikers, trekkers and bush walkers the breathtaking island is crisscrossed with many a hiking trail that delves deep in to the country’s cultural identity, its historical legacy as well as its natural wonders.
Nature lovers heading to the island have a plethora of walking tours at their disposal as the island’s diverse geographical features leaves little to the imagination when it comes to captivating landscapes and bountiful natural reserves. The hill capital of Kandy offers a number of treks to engage the wild child in each of us and one such trail is laid across the Udawattakelle Forest Reserve while the aptly named Walkers Forest also offers visitors a hike across breathtaking terrain surrounded by hills.  The Hantane Trek on the other hand has a bit of culture thrown in to the mix as walkers can visit the ancient temples of Lankathilaka, Embekke and Gadaladeniya on the hike. The western quarters of Kandy is known for the Portuguese War Route trail which takes walkers through to Dodanwala Devale Hindu shrine passing Alagalle Mountain, lush forests, rustic Kandyan villages and verdant tea estates.

The Knuckles Mountain Range is also a dream come true for mountaineering and walking enthusiasts as it is littered with trails and camp sites set up by the country’s Forest Department. Highlights include the Knuckles summit trail, Pitawala Pathena trail, the Mini Worlds End trails, Nitre Cave trail and the Ash Cave trail which cut across footpaths used by cardamom growers, villagers, tea planters and toddy tapers.

Waterfall enthusiasts can feast their eyes on the liquid cascades they encounter on the Rathna Waterfall Trek. The Lamasuriyagama Royal Rice Field Trek is equally captivating as is the Loggaloya riverine forest trail leading to the Victoria-Randenigala-Rantambe sanctuary.
Nuwara Eliya district’s Horton Plains is another hotbed of activity for avid trekkers as this wondrous environment among the clouds is infested with lush plains, rare flora and fauna as well as the island’s most stunning precipice cum lookout point.

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle also packs in engaging hiking trails among which the treks across Pink Quartz Mountain, Ritigala Hill and Pidurangala Rock reign supreme.

Visitors in search of Sri Lanka tours that include trekking excursions should look to Jetwing Travels for all their tour operator needs.  Offering tourists a wide range of all-encompassing tours this veritable giant among Sri Lanka travels and tours operators is the premium establishment for well-organized trips around the island.

Setting Off On A Night Safari Into The Wild In Sri Lanka

Night safaris in wildlife parks are not very common in Sri Lanka. Yet, at the few places that do offer these tours, it gives wildlife enthusiasts a unique chance to observe many wild animals after sunset. One of the best places to go on a night safari is along the borders of Yala, well known for its massive flocks of birds, many leopards and families of elephants and their babies in tow, roaming the wild under the moonlight.

Yala is considered to be a national park that has the highest leopard population density in Asia and what is more there are many other wild animals that can be spotted here. Thus it is a much loved spot amongst wildlife enthusiasts in Sri Lanka and abroad. Those visiting this nature reserve have a good chance to spot leopards on the site known as ‘leopard rock’ at sun down which offers ideal photographic opportunities.

Those staying at hotels located at the border of the reserve have the advantage of spotting animals after dusk from their balconies and windows. However, the typical night safari that anyone in this area should take is a trip to watch turtles hatching. At places such as Kirinda beach, guests watch giant turtles coming to the shore to lay their eggs as well as witness the amazing sight of turtles hatching. All these are truly unique opportunities for nature lovers to view these creatures in their natural habitat and in a different light.

For any tourist keen on spotting these creatures at night or those who are interested in taking a mini night safari, Chaaya Wild Yala is indeed one of the best hotels to go to and get the best out of staying at a Yala Sri Lanka hotel. There are sophisticated, high tech night watching equipment provided to guests to ensure that they do not miss out on any of the sights. Whether it is waiting up for turtles to come ashore or watching wild beasts come roaming all the way up to your window, this is a premier Yala hotel that offers an unforgettable holiday adventure for the whole family. 

Amazing windsurfing in Bali

Bali is becoming increasingly popular for both surfing as well as windsurfing. For any adventure traveller looking for windsurfing in Bali, some of the best spots are the Tanjung Benoa, Sanur as well as Nusa Dua beaches. However it is advisable to have an instructor, especially for beginners.

Balina Beach is located on the western shore and it is a renowned surf spot. Here the wind is really strong, and blows on the side. The bottom of the shore is not too shallow and the waves are well known for their long ride. Though the waves can be huge they are not considered dangerous. The best approach here is to go out from the left side of the river and to keep an eye out for the shore break. It is also important to keep in mind that the winds slow down near the bay.

Sanur is perhaps the most famous spot for windsurfing. The wind is stronger here than anywhere else in the Island. In the dry season the whole stretch around the beach at Sanur is great for surfing. The southern part of this beach also offers ideal conditions during the wet season. Sometimes there are waves that go as high as 10 feet making it a great spot for both wave riding and jumping and there are ample side shore winds making this possible.

There is another dark sand shore known as Gangga Beach. It can be located just past Tabanan. Here the wind is sometimes quite strong and can even go faster than the wind in Sanur. However, it is not recommended for amateurs since the big swells can be dangerous for those not experienced to such conditions.

Another spot that is good for windsurfing is Tulamben. Located towards the northeast of the island, it is better known as a diving destination though it is also very windy. There is great power in the winds that blow here and surfers can also enjoy a scenic view of the volcano from the sea making it an extra special destination. Surfers have a number of luxury hotels in the island to choose from. Anantara hotels, resorts & spas are among the best luxury hotel resorts in the region and help ensure surfers have a luxurious and memorable vacation.

The Ceylon Breweries

An all-time favourite, Ceylon beer has appealed to palates of not just Sri Lankans but Europeans as well. One of the most popular exports of the country, Ceylon beer dates back to the 1800s and it was in the breathtaking city of Nuwara Eliya, where the Ceylon Breweries was first set up.

With sparkling lakes and cascading waterfalls, surrounded by acres of tea plantations, the foreign Scottish population eagerly made this city their home in the 1800’s. The only thing they missed in this idyllic haven was some good beer to warm up those chilly evenings! Hence Sir Samuel Backer stepped forward and on the foothills of ‘Lovers Leap’, set up the country’s pioneering breweries. Little did Backer fathom the extent to which his humble breweries would expand to.

The breweries have grown and gone on to produce excellent brands like ‘Carlsberg’ and ‘Lion’. Nothing but the best of ingredients are used; a spring above the breweries supply pure crystal clear water, and the malt and hops are imported into the country from the finest native destinations. Ceylon Breweries soon became popular for excellent quality that has been savoured by a number of countries in the international world.

Today the breweries still stand at the foothill of ‘Lovers Leap’. As it has been in operation since 1884, its historical value combined with the epic scenery that surrounds it makes this place a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. In fact the city of Nuwara Eliya itself is a must visit destination in the country. Blessed with beautiful and stunning landscapes, lush green tea plantations, scenic gardens and so much more, the city stands as one of the most relaxing and picturesque destinations in the island. It also has an almost English feel with colonial type houses and pleasant chilly weather.

To truly savour this ‘Garden of Eden’, travellers should look to find cosy and comfortable Nuwara Eliya accommodation which lets one enjoy the surrounding beauty. Giving guests a chance to be swept away into delightful colonial times, Jetwing Warwick Gardens offers luxurious accommodation where one can unwind and relax. A restored colonial mansion surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, it stands out as one of the finest of Sri Lanka hotels.

Mesmerizing Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

No visit to Abu Dhabi would be complete without a desert safari excursion. Watching the sunset while riding across the expansive desert sand dunes on a 4×4 vehicle is always an unforgettable experience. However there is much more on offer, including Bedouin style camping, camel rides, belly dancing and henna painting. Visitors may also enjoy a delicious Arabian meal and try their hand at smoking a traditional water pipe.

Selective visitors desiring a superior Abu Dhabi hotel will be pleased by the Grand Millennium Al Wahda. This fine hotel Abu Dhabi UAE offers excellent accommodations and service.

Breathtaking Sunset Cruise along the Gulf Coast

Taking a refreshing cruise along the Gulf Coast off Abu Dhabi will surely be the experience of a lifetime. Visitors have the choice of selecting either a luxury yacht or one of the commercial dhow vessels. The mesmerizing sight of the sun setting on the Arabian coast will never be forgotten. In addition to enjoying the welcome drinks visitors may choose to have a buffet or a la carte dinner aboard the cruise vessels.
 
Discerning travellers seeking a fine Abu Dhabi hotel will find an excellent choice in the Grand Millennium Al Wahda. This outstanding hotel Abu Dhabi UAE provides tastefully furnished rooms and attentive hospitality.

A world of Kayaking adventures amidst spectacular beaches

The beaches remain pristine white in graceful contrast to the stark blue of the ocean which ceaselessly visits it, each time with waves of joy. The stunning landscape is well complemented by the breathtaking seascape that lures every unsuspecting traveler to experience its turquoise blue waters with closer intimacy, with either boat riding, snorkeling or kayaking.
 
Thailand is a paradise for Kayaking, as well as a great many other water sports. Be it for an experienced player or a new comer, these adventures in the waters, organized by special units or agents are excellently planned escapades that let you enjoy nature at its best without any hindrance. With protective cliffs standing still by the beaches and lime stones rising right up from the sea, one can explore the ravishing lagoons and curious caves and hollow islands that make up a picture of rugged but ravishing beauty.

The best area for Kayaking is said to be the Andaman Sea and some of the most renowned sites are included in the area between Phuket and Krabi in Phang Nya bay, especially the James Bond Island and the Koh Panek which however owing to their fame can become somewhat overrun with tourists during the season. If someone desires more privacy for themselves and more intimacy with nature, the Koh yao Noi is a quiet island in the Phang Nya bay that offer a solitary and peaceful kayaking experience, with visits to tiny unknown islands in that region.  It takes very little time for the kayaking crew to become familiar with the White belly sea eagles and Brahminy kites. Nor do they easily miss the site of little herons, kingfishers and blue rock thrushes. The bungalows tucked away on these islands with excellent views of limestone krast formations offer an incredible island experience at its best. A kayaki trip can be arranged for a traveler’s convenience as a day trip as well. Furthermore, Ao Nang is also an excellent base sitatued in Phang Nya bay that offer easy access to some major kayaking areas. Anh Thong Marine Park is yet another popular destination that too has succumbed to its popularity and has become overcrowded.

While so much adventure beseeches you on the outdoors, you can discover a million luxuries awaiting you at a reputed Samui Resort. Surrender to the five star amenities of Anantara Bophut Koh Samui within the rich Thai inspired interiors that overlook equally amazing coastal sceneries. With a throng of modern conveniences together with lavish comforts, this Samui Hotel pampers you with warm and congenial hospitality in this ravishing coastal region of Thailand.