One of the great metropolises of the world, London is a dichotomy of royalist traditionalism and high society meeting modern cosmopolitan commerce. Of the calendar of the city’s social events that annually draw crowds from all over the globe; none blends the aforementioned aspects together as seamlessly as the Chelsea Flower Show.
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, or the Great Spring Show as it is officially called, is the red-letter event of the world’s leading horticultural organization, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). This gargantuan enterprise is one of the highlights of London’s social season, being the gardening equivalent of the Milan catwalk shows. It is an event which usually spans five days, the first two permitting attendance only to the members of the RHS and the royal family whose patronage the RHS enjoys. Having been held in an annual tradition spanning 200 years, the exhibition has long been hosted within the 11 acre grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London.
The cream of the world’s garden designers, landscape artists and nurseries come together to compete for the medals awarded to the best creations and “show gardens” (small delightfully imaginative inspirational gardens), introduce new varieties of flora and revive the appeal of older varieties. The centerpiece of the show is the Grand Pavilion, which is a vibrant floral marquee showcasing the best in horticultural achievement of the most elite names in the world of gardening.
Despite being televised by the BBC and receiving a lot of press, only around 150,000 visitors can be admitted to the show each year due to the limitations of ground capacity and tickets are sold out well in advance. Children under the age of 5 are not admitted. It can take a full day of walking to explore the numerous gardens, so visitors are advised to plan their day ahead of time using the show catalogues which are issued with the tickets, wear comfortable shoes and bring umbrellas in case of rain. Those unlucky enough to miss out can buy the official DVD of the event which is issued by the RHS.
For visitors staying at a London apartment hotel especially in the exclusive district of Mayfair, this is the must-not-miss social event of the season. Ascott London Mayfair is highly recommended for seekers of luxury London serviced apartments who wish for prime access to this and many more of the city’s high society events.
Relaxed and laidback, Abu Dhabi is one of the few tourist destinations in the UAE where the traveller is able to visit a variety of unique attractions. Although some might label Abu Dhabi as a money hungry metropolis which attracts thousands of petrodollars on a daily basis, the city has much more to offer and very seldom disappoints. Blessed with enchanting oases, Abu Dhabi has the golden desert sun shining on its lands during most parts of the year and gives the adventurous traveller the chance to engage in a range of great leisure activities such as desert safaris, camel rides, and bird watching. Although most might believe that bird watching in Abu Dhabi offers very little chance of actually spotting birds, visitors are often pleasantly surprised as several varieties of migratory birds can be seen in several specific locations in and around the city. Sir Bani Yas is a small island located not too far away from Abu Dhabi. Among the surrounding desert regions this plentiful little island stands out as it boasts plenty of greenery and picturesque mountainous terrain. This environment happens to be ideal for migratory birds in search of resting grounds while travelling to find greener pastures.
The bird sanctuary located on the island itself features a number of bird species such as cranes, Egyptian geese, pheasants and guinea fowl, together with a few flightless varieties such as African ostriches, emus and even rheas. Some of the most common migratory birds spotted on the island and in various locations in Abu Dhabi include the socotra cormorant, sandwich tern, sooty gull, Arctic skua, swift tern, lesser black-backed gull and the lesser crested tern. Along the coastal regions of Abu Dhabi you will have the chance to see several kinds of seafaring birds as well.
Arguably the best time to visit Abu Dhabi if you’re a bird witching enthusiast is between March and July. While the weather is quite pleasant during this time of the year hundreds of birds on their annual migratory journeys glide through these regions.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers ideal accommodation options for the discerning traveller in search of quality Abu Dhabi resort hotels. This flagship Abu Dhabi resort also offers great spa facilities for a truly memorable stay.
Situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, is a bay on the Indian Ocean known as Arugam Bay – a surfing paradise for the water-sporting enthusiast. Located in Arugam, this coastal haven has been through a number of unfortunate circumstances and one such stand out is the devastating Tsunami that wiped out half of Arugam Bay’s buildings, houses and its population in 2004.
However, due to its popular attractions and its waves that enthral a surfer, this bay has significantly recovered over the years. Tourists from all walks of life have come together to make Arugam Bay one of the country’s most preferred destinations.
The beach here is known among many as one of the best around the world and with its picturesque settings and its tranquil atmosphere, makes Arugam Bay an adventure for a traveller worth discovering. The Arugam Bay Surf Point is far more superior to the other parts of the beach due to the extensive work that has gone into it; this section of the bay was transformed from a wreck to a beautiful coastal paradise.
Arugam Bay is also known for its fishing hamlets and sea folk that gather themselves into fishing boats and sail the seas of the bay, bringing in a fine catch of ocean specimen for their families and to seek their daily livelihood.
Another spectacle at this place is its vibrant nightlife and parties almost during each weekend, so a traveller will be fascinated with the area’s activities and other relaxing recreations. Arugam Bay has also become a surfer’s foremost destination and as a result, a world-renowned surfing competition is held every year by international event planners at this prestigious venue.
This small remote area in the Island of Sri Lanka has a populace of over 2,500 residents and is probably one of the country’s most treasured coasts. Visitors looking forward enjoy a memorable Sri Lanka travel experience should definitely be hiring a vehicle of choice from Malkey Rent A Car and embark on a great journey. Considered to be a reputed Sri Lanka car rental company that offers travel solutions and comforts complete with warmth and luxury.
Living on a bed of coral is something Maldivians have done for centuries. Offering the height of luxury and indulgences, Maldives have attracted those who yearn to be pampered and adored. Cobalt blue oceans meet powdery white beaches in this country. The water sporting activities that can be included in ones itinerary while holidaying in this part of the world are endless. Anything from deep sea fishing to snorkelling can be achieved in Maldives and serves as one of the most popular tourist attractions. Honeymooners and couples will find these islands to be a paradise, with secluded beach coves at your disposal.
Having a wedding in Maldives is undeniably an unforgettable experience. Weddings in Maldives would include white marquees, palms floating with the balmy breeze set against the backdrop of a picture perfect ocean. For those who look forward to a private celebration with family and friends will truly enjoy the offerings of the many Maldives hotels.
Complete wedding ceremonies can be arranged from any of the Maldives hotels. Couples can choose from traditional clothing or bring their own attire. Floral decorations, cake structures, a scrumptious buffet, spa treatments, photographer and even wedding rings can all be arranged from a hotel in Maldives. Honeymoon packages are also available and offer a unique and enchanting experience.
Want to plan a wedding in one of the Maldives hotels? Look no further than famous hotel chain, John Keells Hotels Group. Offering excellent packages for those looking to have a wedding or honeymoon in Maldives, guests will be spoilt for choice. With 4 properties located in prime locations of the islands, Maldives travel has never been this exciting!
Everybody wants a perfect honeymoon. Therefore selecting the right destination which is unbeatable in its romantic appeal is very important. Let Caribbean honeymoons be the getaway for you and your loved one, for that memorable trip that you can cherish for a lifetime. Recharge, unwind, and weave a lifetime of memories against the panorama of a vibrant culture, colors and the warmth of the sand and the sun of the Caribbean beaches.
The sea for a backdrop, lush tropical landscaping, the fine dining and luxurious accommodations is just simply perfect for honeymooners and those seeking an adults-only environment. Any of the Caribbean Islands are splendid for an unforgettable time with your loved one. The hotels with understated opulence and pampering services, the scenic coastal drive, the abundance of water sports and horseback riding will provide active vacations for couples on their honeymoon. It is also economical to combine the wedding and honeymoon into one package. One can chose from a range of honeymoon resorts and hotels that emphasize privacy, natural environment, and tranquility. There are set packages to be decided upon; for a Caribbean Island wedding, Caribbean beach wedding, or a Caribbean cruise wedding,
An enthusiastic couple can find a wedding organizing company specialized in handling the worries of the organization part of a wedding. They are dedicated towards handling all wedding planning including accommodations for the couple and guests, the reception, décor, food, music, the hairdresser and make up artist, the photography arrangements and even the marriage license process.
Canouan Island in the southeastern Caribbean presents the epitome of such a perfect host, overlooking the northern Grenadines. A Caribbean wedding can be organized with the help of resort wedding coordinators, with whichever concept you wish to adapt for your wedding. There are many elegant resorts in the Caribbean which features all the trimmings and frills to ensure the most blissful Caribbean honeymoon.
Maldives ranks among the top five holiday destinations in the world and being so it never fails to delight the visitor. Over the years thousands of travellers have thronged to this beautiful tropical island and basked in its pleasures. There are numerous ways to keep yourself occupied in the Maldives but travellers looking to just absorb some tropical heat and enjoy the breathtaking ocean, may just sit back and do just that.
With tons of activities to indulge in, one spectacular way to enjoy an afternoon in beautiful Maldives is to set forth on a dolphin watching journey. The calm waters of Maldives are home to a variety of these beautiful creatures and they are seen in abundance. Some of them leaping in the air, some of them swimming like the wind and some squabbling with each other, there are plenty of these wonderful animals waiting for your admiration, so make sure to make this excursion a must when you visit Maldives.
Cameras are a must on your dolphin watching journey as these moments are meant to be captured. Some of the dolphins you will come across on your journey are the spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins. The most common species here is the spinner dolphin and there are over ten thousand of them swimming amongst the Maldivian waters. Apart from the two common dolphin species mentioned there are also many others and these include the likes of Risso’s, Fraser’s, spotted, rough-toothed and striped dolphins.
In addition to these dolphins, travellers can also see many different species of whales and these mammoth-sized mammals are a treat to watch. With water spouting out of their blowholes, an experience among these creatures will be overwhelming. Whilst journeying through the island waters, you will see the likes of the giant blue whale, the Bryde’s whale and the sperm whale. Other whales like the dwarf whale, pilot whale and the cuvier beaked whale are also among the marine species seen here.
This journey is not complete without a diving or snorkelling experience alongside these magnificent marine mammals. Apart from these pleasures, one can also enjoy a plethora of water sports offered to enthusiastic travellers.
If you are looking for a Maldives resort that boasts elegance and comfort, then a stay at the Anantara Dhigu, Maldives, is certainly for you. This lodging option is among the Maldives luxury hotels and it offers guests impeccable services for a memorable stay.
Popularly known as Bakheng Phnom, the hill is reminiscent of a temple mountain where you can catch one of the best sunrise and sunset views that you will see in the Angkor area. Atop the hill stands a temple that is built in a manner that resembles Mount Meru which is believed to be a shrine to the Hindu gods.
Streams of tourists crowd the upper levels of this famous temple hill to experience the magnificent rays of the sun as it highlights the surrounding area. An ideal time to ascend this mountain would be early morning before the sunrise to see the golden hues of the sun as it begins to radiate the magnificence of the area. The setting and rising of the sun illuminates the Angkor Wat main temple, which lies approximately 1.5 kilometers southeast in the lush greenery that surrounds Bakheng Hill. Other places such as the Phnom Krom to the southwest near the Grand Lake, Phnom Kulen in the east and the West Baray can also be seen in its majesty and splendour during this time.
Visitors wanting to view the beauty of nature in the rising and setting of the sun can also enter the mysterious world of the Khmer by exploring the temple that stands on this site. The mountain and the temple can be accessed from all 4 cardinal directions. You can take a peek into history as the site is home to ancient relics and architecture. There are 5 sandstone sanctuaries that lay in a quincunx design on the topmost level of the temple which is worth a look.
A visit to Siem Reap would not be complete without climbing up Bakheng Hill to witness the spectacular sunset. Visitors looking for a Siem Reap hotel should consider the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. It is aluxury hotel in Siem Reap and provides an elegant base from which to explore the surrounding area.
Horton Plains is one of the most unique and most scenic gifts found in the tropical island of Sri Lanka. This is conserved parkland situated upon a plateau at one of the highest elevations in the island, at the country’s mountainous heart. Semi-embraced by the great rivers of Kelani and Mahaveli, flanked by the towering majesty of the Thotapolakanda and Kirigalpottha mountains, this sun-dappled plateau is a dichotomy of evergreen forests and verdant montane grasslands.
The World’s End, the Mini-World’s End and Baker’s Falls form the trifecta of main attractions within the park, all three of which are found along a single semi-circular, 9-kilometre trail. World’s End is a 4000 foot high escarpment that affords a stunning panorama of the island, stretching even to the azure seas of the coastline. Mini-world’s end is a more easily accessible precipice with less sheer a drop while the Baker’s Falls is indubitably one of the most picturesque waterfalls found in the beautiful hill country.
Baker’s Falls is found on one of the tributaries of the Belihul Oya, and is named after the famous 19th century colonial explorer and huntsman Sri Samuel Baker. Cascading down from a height of 20 metres, the falls do not simply hurtle downwards in a mist of white; instead, white curtains of water gush over three elevations of smooth rock, into a steep gorge from which emerge flourishing ferns and Rhododendrons. The waterfall is said to be one of the spots Sir Baker would use as a resting point in his numerous hunting trips.
There are many crystal-clear pools and shallow streams in and around the waterfall, which are rather curiously overrun with trout – a fish which is not native to the island. This singular occurrence also harks back to the efforts of Sir Samuel Baker, who imported various livestock from England as part of his vision in establishing an English-style farming community in Nuwara Eliya. The chilly climes of his area mimic that of his colonial motherland, making it ideally suited to this enterprise and helping to popularize Nuwara Eliya as a popular holiday resort among Europeans, while the colony was still largely underdeveloped.
Baker’s Falls are easily accessible to visitors who trek along the well-used hiking trail, appearing seemingly out of nowhere after only a shirt journey. The more adventurous will be able to go right down to the water’s edge (although it must be cautioned that the rocks are slippery) and find their way to the large flat rock face on which they can sit and splash their feet in the falls. Tourists with exceptional bravado even take a dip in the pool found downstream, although the line between refreshing and hypothermic is rather fine when it comes to these waters.
This is one of the key natural attractions that tourists staying in Nuwara Eliya hotels are strongly encouraged to see. In terms of nearby accommodation, St. Andrews is a beautiful escape and well-reputed hotel Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka that affords great access to both the Horton Plains and other picturesque draws of Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country.
The Trang province of Southern Thailand is chiefly dominated by its flora and fauna, thriving in the mist-wrapped mountain peaks, verdant forests and pristine beaches. The western boundary of the province hugs the Malay peninsula’s coastline facing the Andaman Sea and claims ten districts, including an archipelago of 46 islands. The Trang River, one of Thailand’s most significant rivers, flows down from the Khao Luang mountain terrain across the Trang province.
The province is home to many wildlife sanctuaries and preservations that create protected havens for both exotic and indigenous plant and animal life. This has resulted in natural landscapes that are among the most unsullied by the touch of man. Although the coast of Trang enjoys worldwide recognition for its excellent diving and snorkelling sites, its mainland also presents a myriad of breathtaking natural marvels, chief among which are its waterfalls.
In the centre of a lush forest, the Roi Chan Pan Wang falls hurtle down a steep precipice into the rock pools below, from which arise curling tendrils of white mist. Its name translates into “hundreds of steps, thousands of palaces”, an apt description of the majestic rock formation that has been polished into steep ladders by needle-sharp threads of gushing water. A row of towering rubber trees stand atop this semi-circular rock like silent sentinels.
The Pak-Jaem falls, also known as the “Virgin Falls”, is a majestic cascade that streams down four tiers of rock in a sheet of misty white. Framed by blooming vines and creepers and a favourite haunt of colourful native birds, this waterfall appears as a long, virgin-white bridal veil.
The Water Garden of the Asoka Forest of the Khao Laem National Park is an area which boasts innumerable cascades threading through the limestone boulders and trees of a lush and verdant forest. Its main waterfall is Chong Banpot, which appears through a gap in the mountain.
The Tone Tok is a cascade that is yet more stunning. Accessible via a bumpy 3 kilometre track, this waterfall appears in a thick, relentless cascade over innumerable tiers of rock of a wide cliff into a basin below, suffusing the whole area in a rain-like mist. There is no uniformity among the rock formations here; some are rounded while others are simply flat. Nor are these limestone or granite rocks as usually found; beneath their moss-covered surface shines iridescent layers and colourful patterns. The panorama surrounding these falls is truly breathtaking, with sprawling rubber and rice plantations blanketing the vista of high and low hills.
The waters of the Tone Teh falls are among the most beautiful in Thailand. Indeed, it is also known as the “King of Waterfalls”. Appearing at the centre of one of the most scenic forests in the region, these falls have a sort of violent, hypnotic beauty, hurtling down from a spectacular 320 metre drop across a path of boulders, cliffs and stoic foliage. Many bathing pools are formed by these falls at different tiers. These falls and the surrounding wilderness come under the management of the Forest Conservation Unit.
The virgin beauty of the Chaopa waterfall rewards the traveller who braves its rough terrain. Surrounded by durian plantations in the mountain foothills, the route to the falls, which are locally known as Namtok Clongtong, is a scenic obstacle course of limestone cliffs, wading waters and a steep trek to the top of the mountain. However, the cold, crisp air, leafy shade and crystal clear waters are well worth the trek.
Saving the best for last, the Praisawan and Sairung (Rainbow) waterfalls are seen a mere four kilometres apart from each other. Fourteen kilometres away from Thanonkot an uphill trek yields the Sairung falls and its sister cascade Praisawan. The inspiration for many poets, both these sites are shrouded in an atmospheric charm, the uninterrupted sheets gushing across a many-tiered terrace of rock surrounded by lush green foliage. The basin of clear water at the foot of Praisawan is singularly inviting as a bathing pool. The area is also a known haunt of local avian life.
It is recommended that travellers wishing to experience the many marvels of the Trang Province find accommodation at Amphur of Si Kao. This district encompasses over half the archipelago of islands belonging to the province. There are many elegant and star-class Si Kao hotels that provide great access to the great sightseeing venues both at sea and on the mainland. Anantara Si Kao, Thailand is one of the best reputed luxury hotels in Si Kao, offering a range of amenities and facilities to ensure a pampered and relaxing stay.
The city of Auckland is a city that offers a vast wealth of attractions to visit that have increasingly made it a popular tourist destination. With museums, zoos, amusements parks, dining options and more, it’s hard to go wrong when holidaying in Auckland.
For travellers only having the weekend sampling all that the city offers will prove somewhat difficult or impossible. Still, there is plenty that can be visited in the limited span of two days ensuring a rewarding visit.
The Auckland Botanic Gardens is a destination that is ideal for relaxation. Visitors to this destination can indulge in a relaxing stroll amidst a serene locale. Plants in the gardens originate from all around the world creating a strong amount of variety while there is also a visitor’s centre that showcases art pieces relating to botany in addition to a café that offers wide spanning views over the entire area.
The Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tamaki is the largest art institution in all of New Zealand and is well worth a visit when travelling to the city. Visitors will find housed inside, a staggering collection of over 12,000 works that collectively forms a robust artistic portfolio. In addition to the permanent collection, various exhibitions with temporary art from other institutions and contributors are also regularly held here.
For those wanting a slightly faster paced attraction, the Auckland Bridge climb presents a formidable choice. With the help of a tour guide, visitors will embark on a venture that will take them under, around and over the city’s famous bridge. The tour guide will provide insightful information while visitors will also be privy to fabulous views of the city’s skyline. A special bungee spot is also to be found here providing the ultimate thrill.
The Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari takes travellers to the Hauraki Gulf which is one of the leading spots in the world for marine mammals, which includes over 22 species of whales and dolphins. Going on board such a cruise will provide ample opportunity to catch glimpses of these majestic marine mammals.
During a weekend trip, travellers will have to find a suitable hotel in Marlborough for their stay. Copthorne Hotel Auckland City offers a Blenheim hotel Marlborough surrounded by the ever popular Marlborough Sounds.
One of the great metropolises of the world, London is a dichotomy of royalist traditionalism and high society meeting modern cosmopolitan commerce. Of the calendar of the city’s social events that annually draw crowds from all over the globe; none blends the aforementioned aspects together as seamlessly as the Chelsea Flower Show.
