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Yearly Archives: 2012

My Romantic Travel   →  2012
Categories Travel

Heaven’s Garden

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

With amazing sunny beaches, lush forests, busy shopping malls and a naughty nightlife Thailand seems to have it all. This popular Southeast Asian tourist destination is perhaps best known for its heavenly beaches. Primarily a Buddhist country, Thailand has numerous tranquil Buddhist shrines and temples. The sculptures and statues in these shrines illustrate extraordinary craftsmanship. However, the Thai people are very open minded and welcome visitors from any culture or religion around the world. Koh Samui is a charming, secluded island on the east coast of the country. This is home to some of the most spectacular beaches of Thailand.

Chaweng is a popular beach located on the eastern part of Koh Samui. This mesmerizing island is blessed with a wide variety of flora and fauna. If you want to get away from the beach you can go on a wildlife expedition and explore the secrets of the island. Heaven’s Garden is a unique attraction of Koh Samui. It is the creation of Nim Thongsuk a Samui of the fourth generation. At the somewhat advanced age of 77 he decided to fashion a heaven on earth in his homeland. This ambitious craftsman carved dozens of sculptures depicting figures from the Buddhist scriptures on the hillside of Koh Samui. The figures are blended into their surroundings so expertly that you might even miss them while walking along. Nim was engaged in making Koh Samui a heaven for visitors till his death at the age of 99. Most of the organized tours include this enchanting Heaven’s Garden in their itinerary.

While in Koh Samui you will be able to indulge in some mouth watering seafood dishes. Although Thai food can be quite spicy, drawing heavily form Indian and Malay cuisine it is extremely delightful. You can also enjoy the sweet water of coconut while visiting the island as it is a very popular drink when the sun is high. Most of the hotels along the beach have excellent restaurants which will serve you international fare as well.

A Koh Samui resort will treat you with the warm Thai smile and friendly hospitality. At Chaweng hotel accommodation can easily be found along the beach. Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Koh Samui is one such option where you will be transported to a romantic tropical hideaway while being pampered by world class service.

Categories Uncategorized

Camp Overnight in the Desert, a thrilling diversion

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on
Camping overnight in the desert is an experience that will draw the attention of almost any visitor to the desert emirate. After a day of dune bashing – travelling across sand dunes in a four wheel drive vehicle – there is no better way to unwind than to camp in the tranquil desert. At night the desert is utterly silent and secluded, and the camper will be able to relax in the serene ambience of the desolate desert landscape.

Discerning travellers desiring Abu Dhabi luxury hotels will find a pleasing accommodation in the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. One of the outstanding Abu Dhabi hotels this fine rest offers well-appointed rooms and gracious hospitality.

Categories Uncategorized

Discover Fluttering Wonders at the One and Only Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on
Quietly nestled along the south-eastern border of Railway Park or Vachirabenjatas Park, lies a magical enclave that is devoted to one of the world’s most captivating and delicate creatures. Dubbed the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, this vast enclosure is the verdant home of nearly 500 butterflies that encompass nearly 20 species of the insect genera.  As a lush, tropical garden the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is a frequent stopover for nature lovers and locals hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in a green sanctuary littered with fluttering delicate creatures that are as mesmerizing as intriguing.

 

Contained within a massive cage that spreads out over an expansive area of 1,100 square metres, the butterflies can be seen flying in to the cage’s dome which is also an impressive 15m in height. Constructed with ample ventilation based on an open framework, the cage is well-suited to the flighty personalities of its colourful inhabitants. Located in between Rotfai Garden and Queen Sirikit Garden the sanctuary is divided in to an exhibition region, activity area, embryo breeding room and a feed breeding room while a Lamphu tree enclosure and a scenic area are also situated alongside insectariums.
Open to visitor free of charge every day of the week except on Monday, the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium can well be described as a living study room for those with a fascination for the delicate winged creatures that evolve from caterpillars. Sheltered from the harsh rays of the sun by giant ferns, rockeries, wild blooms and even a waterfall the park provides its chief inhabitants an idyllic setting to dwell and roam free. Some of the mot popular varieties of butterflies at the garden include the Giant Silkworm Butterfly and the Golden Birdwing butterfly while the Siam Tree Nymph is also a crowd’s favourite. The venue’s indoor spaces also contain informative exhibits that showcase the intriguing life cycle of these stunning insects and other particulars that will be of great interest for butterfly lovers.
Visitors in search of a five-star Bangkok hotel should look no further than The Peninsula Bangkok. Offering guests the crème de la crème in high-end amenities this Bangkok luxury hotel pulls out all the stops when it comes to opulent accommodation in the Thai capital.
Categories Adventures

Sea Turtles in the Moonlight

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

Sri Lanka, located just south of the Indian Peninsula, is blessed with some of the most beautiful gold sandy beaches in the world. One of the most beautiful and undisturbed beaches in Sri Lanka is the Rekawa Beach, located just 10km from the Tangalla Bay. This golden sandy beach is an extremely beautiful and relaxing beach, with warm blue waves breaking on the beach every now and then. It is also one of the largest Turtle Nesting Areas in Sri Lanka, and is thus pivotal to the eco-system of Sri Lanka.

One of the most amazing and once in a life time experiences that the Rekawa Beach offers is Night Turtle Watching. Since this beach is an important Turtle Nesting Area, hundreds of sea turtles make their way to the shore to lay their eggs and give life to the next generation of sea turtles. The Rekawa Beach is highly populated by majestic sea turtles that can grow up 4 feet in length and can weigh up to 600kg.

The best time to witness this amazing experience is during the months of January, February, March and April under the light of the full moon. One usually has to wait for a few hours without making a sound as the turtles are most agitated when they are about lay their eggs. It is indeed an amazing sight to see the large sea turtles quietly and laboriously make their way on to the beach, and dig not one, but two holes to lay her eggs. One of these holes is a decoy hole which the sea turtle digs to keep her eggs safe from predators, and lays her eggs in the other hole before making her way back to the sea. It is truly unbelievable to see the effort and care the sea turtle takes to ensure her eggs are safe, which displays the beauty of nature. There are guides available along the beaches, who will take you through this amazing process. So to witness this amazing feat of nature, head over to the beaches of Rekawa.

One of the best hotels to stay in while you enjoy the beauty of the South of Sri Lanka is the Jetwing Tangalla Bay, a premier Sri Lanka beach resort. Offering serene accommodation in 34 superior and deluxe rooms, the Jetwing Tangalla Beach is one of the best hotels to absorb the beauty of the beach. With two exquisite restaurants, Jacuzzi facilities, relaxing bars and sprawling lawns & grounds, the Jetwing Tangalla Bay is among the finest Sri Lanka hotels.

Categories Adventures

Useful Surfing Tips for the Maldives

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on
The idyllic Maldive Islands have been acclaimed as one of the world’s premier surfing destinations, providing excellent conditions for the sport. However it is appropriate to keep in mind some valuable tips. Currents and tides perform an important function in determining suitable surfing conditions in the islands. Surfing breaks occur in proximity to the atoll channels and most swells are from two to four feet high. It is important to wear booties as the dead corals near the shore tend to be very sharp. Discerning visitors who seek a superior villa in Maldives will be pleased by the attractive Anantara Kihavah. Counted amongst the outstanding Maldives resorts this fine rest offers excellent accommodations and impeccable service.
Categories Travel

Hot Air Balloon Tours in Boulder

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

Located in the American state of Colorado, the city of Boulder lies at the foothills of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains and offers visitors countless hours of exploration amidst stunning natural landscapes. This charming city is home to a variety of recreational spaces and nature preserves which are ideal for such activities as hiking and rock climbing. Those wanting a unique outdoor pursuit that can be enjoyed by the entire family can take part in hot air balloon tours in Boulder.

Due to the awe inspiring scenery that surrounds the city, hot air ballooning affords an ideal opportunity to take in magnificent panoramic views of the landscape. Offering the perfect backdrop for your aerial adventure are the Rocky Mountains which is one of the country’s main mountain ranges.

The history of ballooning goes back to the late 18th century when the Montgolfier brothers of France launched the first unmanned paper balloon. The manner in which this fascinating contraption works is due to the fact that the heated air inside the balloon has less density than the air outside and it is this difference that causes the balloon to rise.

Those embarking on a balloon ride can take in not only views of the nearby stunning mountain range, but also the area’s wildlife. The flight is on the whole a quiet one and it is common to heard bird calls while on this smooth ride above the tree tops and beyond. Flights usually take place early morning when wind conditions are gentle and ideally suited for such an activity. Certain companies also offer beverages and snacks and even champagne.

Since the balloon reaches high altitudes, the weather can get quite cool and it is recommended to wear warm clothing and bring along such items as sunscreen, windbreakers and a raincoat in case it rains. Hot air balloon tours in Boulder are not only ideal for a family outing, but also for such romantic occasions as a marriage proposal!

Those heading to the city and in search of a centrally located Boulder hotel can stay at Millennium Harvest House Boulder. Ideal for business and leisure travellers, this modern property also offers a variety of Boulder hotel deals on accommodation and more.

Categories Uncategorized

Romantic Beaches in Qingdao

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

During the summer months there is no better romantic destination than the beaches of Qingdao. In the summer extended hours of sunshine, pleasant temperatures, delightful sea breezes and azure skies combine to create a truly enthralling ambience. The couple seeking romance will be delighted by the atmosphere at Qingdao’s beaches. Some of the most attractive of these are Shilaoren Beach, Jinshatan Beach and the Number One Bathing Beach.
Discerning travellers who seek a fine Qingdao hotel will be pleased by the Copthorne Hotel Qingdao. This attractive hotel in Qingdao offers well-appointed rooms and gracious hospitality.

Categories Weddings

Weddings in Maldives

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

One of the most romantic destinations in the world, the Maldives is popular amongst couples looking to celebrate an unforgettable wedding. Instead of walking up the isle in a church, couples can take a walk along pristine beach sand and pledge their undying love to each other while in the backdrop the sun sets in all it glorious splendour. Weddings in Maldives can also involve a traditional island ceremony that features local costumes and drums. Those looking for a secluded Maldives resort that is ideal for couples can stay at Anantara Veli Maldives. Home to spacious Maldives bungalows, the resort also offers beach weddings and ceremonies on a traditional Dhoni (local boat).

Categories Uncategorized

Dubai Flower Centre, a specialized floriculture facility

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

Conveniently located within Dubai International Airport, the well known Dubai Flower Centre has in recent times consolidated its position as a new focus of development for the floriculture sector. With tremendous growth in the international trade in flowers and other perishables, an ever increasing demand exists for specialized commercial solutions and logistics to enable industry players to improve standards of quality, minimize transit times and create sizable profits.

Accordingly the Dubai Flower Centre has specifically been created to meet these particular needs of the floriculture industry. The state of the art centre is focused on satisfying these requirements by providing increased storage capacity as well as shipment links to significant international trading hubs; brisk trans-shipment and consolidation; the finest cool-chain management on the globe; facilities and resources to make possible advantageous value addition; and the support facilities needed for effective commercial dealings.

The centre which exploits advanced technologies for automation and efficient functioning boasts a floor area of approximately 100,000 sqm. This includes offices and export chambers in addition to product build up and break down stations as well as automated areas for sorting. The centre’s handling capacity exceeds 300,000 metric tonnes of products a year, with temperatures being maintained at a steady 2-4 degrees Celsius.

The centre has been developed as a hub for transshipment, with the principal product handling functions for export, import and transit being conducted on the facility’s ground floor. Efficient and rapid handling is supported by a fully automated system which assures the preservation of quality while maximizing shelf life.
The centre operates as a commercial free zone with many attractions for clients, such as nil personal income tax, 100% foreign based ownership, customs inspection, quality control capabilities, and an excellent transportation network to nations within the Middle East and other regions of the world.

The establishment has also put into practice an array of technological solutions to enhance visibility within the supply chain. To handle the monitoring and management of perishable items, a warehouse operation system with cargo handling is available.

Visitors to the Emirate may avail themselves of Dubai hotel offers from a quality Dubai airport hotel such as the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, a fine rest which offers excellent accommodations and impeccable service.

Categories Travel

History of Travel

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on
Wuxi is a city crisscrossed by many canals, most built during the Ming Dynasty, and even a more recent one built after 1949. Emperor Qin built the first canal 2,000 years ago to link northern China to its southern part. Known as the Grand or Imperial Canal the 1,720 mile waterway from Beijing to Hangzou is reputedly the world’s oldest and longest and  passes through many cities including a 14.6 km very scenic stretch that runs through Wuxi starting from the south gate of the old city to the north gate, bisecting the city. The canal was considered Wuxi’s cultural lifeline. It linked the city with the outside world for centuries. Visitors privileged to take a trip on the canal will be taken back in time when most of the commerce in the area took place on this canal and now old houses looming on the sides and ancient bridges arching overhead are what remain of the past. One of these typical Chinese bridges, the subject of many paintings and postcards and one in a reasonable state of preservation is the 16th century Qingming Bridge built during the Ming Dynasty. Parts of the canal are presently under a major renovation programme to preserve the ancient buildings lining the banks. While several spanking new modern developments are visible all along the canal, some of the more interesting may be the older attractions. These include the 7 storied 10th century Miaoguang pagoda standing next to the Nanchan Buddhist Monastery built during the Tang Dynasty, Longguang pagoda a 105 foot brick and wood structure built during the Ming Dynasty, the second highest of its kind in China, and the many examples of houses built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties down Yaochewan, Sibaoqiao and Xiaoluo lanes and the narrow cobblestone lanes of the old town.

While the canal is now one the city’s main tourist attractions, it is still an important trade route clogged at all times with everything from wooden boats carrying local freight to row boats and all kinds of tourist and leisure craft.

Wuxi is said to have been founded 3,000 years ago on the shores of Lake Taihu, the third largest freshwater lake in China and famous for its natural beauty.

In a busy new area of an ancient city, Millennium Wuxi is close to business, transport and commercial hubs of the city and is not far off from its many attractions. It offers a series of spacious, contemporary rooms and suites with facilities and amenities suited to a five star Wuxi hotel. These include a selection of restaurants serving, Chinese, Japanese and Western cuisine, up to date leisure and fitness facilities and elegant spaces to host receptions and business gatherings. As a key hotel in Wuxi guests are made to feel special and every effort is made to ensure that they have a memorable stay here.

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