Monthly Archives: September 2015

Three Popular Activities in Milford Sound, New Zealand

Milford Sound spoils you with a huge array of delightful activities and attractions. Depending upon your preferences, you can choose from amongst various activities and sports that suit you.

 Milford Sound by Joan Campderrós-i-Canas / CC BY

Milford Sound by Joan Campderrós-i-Canas / CC BY

There are various tour operators and guides here, who ensure that you enjoy your holidays to the hilt. Here are our top picks from Milford Sound.

Helicopter Ride

A helicopter ride is one of the best ways to admire the sights of Milford Sound. Helicopter rides as well as light aircraft flights are available from Te Anau, Wanaka, and Queenstown to Milford Sound and are offered by a number of helicopter operators. The airborne journey from these three destinations to Milford Sound offers you unrivalled views of glaciers and mountains. En route, the helicopter stops at the high Tutoko Glacier and if the weather is favourable, also atop the magnificent Sutherland Falls.

Cruises

If you are planning to go for a holiday to Milford Sound, Water Cruise should be on the top of your list.  There are various boat operators in Milford Sound, who offer guided tours and day cruises such as Cruise Milford NZ, Real Journeys and Milford Deep Underwater Observatory among others. Most of these cruises arrive from Queenstown or Te Anau during the afternoon, so if you want to enjoy some quiet time, it is better to reach early or during sunset. Take a camera along as you will get lots of opportunities to capture picture-perfect moments.

Kayaking

If you are an adventure buff, you will probably fall in love with kayaking. Besides the thrill and adventure, kayaking lets you access secluded places where the cruise ships are unable to enter. You can also explore and discover a great variety of fauna life here, including penguins and seals. While moving quietly on the water, you will exercise yourself and work up a good appetite and satiate the same with a lovely dinner later. Safety gear and waterproof bags are provided to visitors. It is advisable not to carry phones, while kayaking.

Explore the Wonders of Nature in Barbados

 Although a small island, Barbados is pleasantly surprising with its great tropical beauty, and picturesque landscapes. From the mysterious underground caves to the beautiful vistas and the tropical colours of flora, the island has it all. Barbados proves itself to be haven for the nature buffs as it showcases the finest tropical flowers, rare trees, mysterious caves, and few national parks. A holiday in Barbados is incomplete if you do not explore the natural beauty that exists here in abundance. Read on to know about a few natural wonders that Barbados is blessed with.

Harrison’s Cave

Lying in the heart of Barbados, this cave is one of the greatest wonders this island has to offer. This breathtakingly magnificent cave is formed entirely out of crystallised limestone. The stalagmites and 40-foot waterfall of Harrison’s will leave you stunned for sure. There are trams

Harrison Cave

Harrison’s Cave by Berit Watkin/ CC BY

that take you down into the cave to explore the cavern’s pools and waterfalls, while the guides educate you about the formation and geological insights of the place. Be sure to keep this attraction on the top of your wish list when you visit Barbados.

Welchman Hall Gully

Located in the parish of St. Thomas, this nature’s marvel is 1.2 kilometres long gully home to a number of tropical plants and trees. Nutmeg, bamboo, clove, and palms are some of the commonly found species here. It is a tropical forest that beautifully boasts some native and exotic plants as well. Visiting Welchman Hall Gully will truly be a treat to your senses. It is a place where you can experience the mastery of nature and get an idea of what the island was like 300 years ago. You will also spot green monkeys in huge numbers in the gully.

Animal Flower Cave

Located under the cliffs at the Northern tip of the island, this beautiful sea-cave is a must-see for all nature loving visitors. The cave gets its name from the colourful Sea-anemones, locally

Animal Flower Cave

Animal Flower Cave by Berit Watkin/ CC BY

called Animal Flowers. The walls of this cave have a natural beautiful structure and reflect green and brown colours due to the oxidation of copper. The cave is surrounded by cliffs that offer dazzling views of the northern coast of Barbados where huge Atlantic waves crash against the cliffs.

 

A Quick Introduction to Mount Kenya National Park

Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest mountain, is one of the most popular destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, trekkers, hikers, climbers and adventure seekers.

kenya

Because of its distinctive climate and ecosystem, UNESCO has included Mount Kenya in the list of the World Heritage Sites and Biosphere Reserves. Mount Kenya National Park is situated on this mountain.

How to get there

The mountain, about 175 kilometres from Nairobi is easily accessible. There is a road at the base of the mountain which winds its way to the top and covers all the major towns such as Nanyuki, Maro Moru, Embu and Meru. The closest airport is the Laikipa Airport.

Weather conditions

The mountain witnesses a unique climate because of its geography and altitude. At higher altitudes, the weather becomes windy, cold and misty. The flora life is mostly alpine and sub-alpine, moorlands and tundra with a few bamboo forests. You will be able to experience the gradual change in the vegetation as you start descending the mountain because of the change in the temperature and altitude.

Attractions and Highlights

Being the second highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kenya witnesses a large number of tourists every year, which also includes adventure enthusiasts. The National Park is home to various unique and unusual species of plants which makes the area seem all the more intriguing and mysterious; as if from a science fiction film. There are several attractions for regular visitors, apart from the adventure-seekers, such as cave exploration, camping, hiking and forest exploration.

Accommodation Options

Serena Mountain Lodge, located on one of the lower slopes of the mountain is the perfect place for base camp. The lodge has been hoisted on stilts and offers perfect views of the wildlife. The accommodation options are available in suites designed like mountain cabins. You can also choose to take guided tours and hikes in the forest or go fishing.

Top 3 Tourist Destinations in Recife, Brazil

Recife, the fourth largest city in Brazil, hasn’t lost its cultural and traditional charm due to industrial growth. Being the capital of Pernambuco state in the north-eastern part of Brazil, Recife is a brilliant blend of the old and the new. Home to a number of canals, inlets and 

brazil

bridges, Recife is aptly billed as the ‘Venice of Brazil’. The city is full of fascinating tourist attractions such as beautiful churches, cathedrals, and beaches. Have a look at the top 3 tourist attractions in the city.

São Pedro dos Clérigos

São Pedro dos Clérigos is one of the most remarkable monuments in Pátio de São Pedro, Brazil. Designed by Manuel Ferreira Jácome, the cathedral was built during 1728 to 1782 and is well known for its Gothic design. The interiors have an elaborate design as the galleries, pulpit and altars have been fashioned out of carved stones. A large number of tourists, especially art and architecture enthusiasts, visit São Pedro dos Clérigos from all around the world.

Capela Dourada

Capela Dourada, also known as the Golden Chapel, is famous for its brilliant design and architecture. This chapel belongs to the Franciscan Order. The two storied arch of cedar and jacaranda that have been adorned with pure gold, makes the Chapel a very popular tourist attraction. The statue of Christ hangs on a cross made of gold and with silver rays emanating from behind his head. There are many other instances of gold and silver artwork in the chapel that make it all the more eye-catching.

Boa Viagem Beach

Boa Viagem beach is Recife’s most popular tourist attraction. The seven kilometre-long beach extends from Pina Beach in the north to Piedade beach in the south and is the longest urban beach in the City. One of the major highlights of the beach is its mini swimming pools formed

Boa Viagem Beach

by high tides. You can see the beautiful coral reefs up-close. The walkway along the beach has many shacks and huts from where you can buy some of the best local food and beverages.  The coastline of Boa Viagem is divided into the different zones out of which the most popular tourist beach area is located on the north of Praca de Boa Viagem. Many posh buildings and properties can be seen in this area.

Upcoming Events and Festivals in Seattle

Seattle’s transformation from a dull port to one of the most culturally enriched cities of the US is truly sensational. Thanks to its cultural heritage, every year hordes of tourists head to Seattle to

seattle

enjoy the huge line up of colourful festivals there. If you have any plans of visiting the coffee capital of the US this year then this list of upcoming events and festivals would come in handy for you.

Earshot Jazz Festival

In its 27th edition this year, Earshot Jazz Festival celebrates the spirit of Jazz in the best way possible. The festival will be held from 9th – 18th November, and would feature more than 50 concerts all across the city. Established as well as new but promising musicians will enthral huge crowds.

Seattle International Auto Show

If you are fond of automobiles then this festival is for you. To be held from 8th to 11th October at the Century Link Event Field Centre, Seattle International Auto Show would showcase more than 400 vehicles across different categories like cars, trucks, SUVs, crossovers and alternative fuel vehicles. From test driving these vehicles and enjoying zip lining tours to eating delicious food, this festival would definitely bring out the child in you.

Seattle Slack Key Festival

Celebrate the best of Hawaiian music and cuisine during the 7th Annual Seattle Slack Key Festival that takes place on 8th November at the Town Hall Theatre. Some of the premier Hawaiian musicians who will be performing this year are George Kuo, Ikaika Marzo and Nathan Aweau. What can be more exciting than watching your favourite artists perform while gorging on delicious Hawaiian delicacies?

Seattle South Asian Film Festival

Watch some of the finest films from India, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan and Bangladesh at the Seattle South Asian Film Festival. The festival will be held from 15th to 25th October in the Greater Seattle Area and would expose movie buffs to the nuances of Asian culture and traditions; certainly a must attend event.

Renowned Kid-Friendly Attractions at Darling Harbour, Sydney

Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s most popular tourist attractions, especially for families with kids. There is so much for kids to see and do at Darling Harbour that a day is just not enough!

sydney

Darling Harbour is always open, always welcoming and always offering bigger and better ways to have fun. Read on to know about a few must-visit attractions when you travel to Darling Harbour with kids.

Darling Harbour Children’s Playground

This is probably one of the best playgrounds your child has ever visited. Darling Harbour Children’s Playground offers some of the best of water games, climbing ropes, swings, slides and flying foxes in Australia. Enough to keep the tiny ones entertained for hours! The best part is that you don’t even have to pay a penny for all this fun. To satiate hunger pangs, dig into the various delicious snacks as well as healthy meals served at the Danieli Kiosk located on the edge of the park.

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

Home to diverse sea creatures like sawfish, stingrays, Japanese spider crabs, and a lot more, Sydney Aquarium is certainly going to be an exciting experience for the young ones. The aquarium displays nearly 700 species across 14 themed zones. You will also spot barramundi and lungfish that hold the distinction of breathing air. Murray cod, platypus, yabbies, turtles, Sea Dragons, Pineapple Fish, octopus, moray eels and little penguins are among the other species to be seen at the aquarium.

9D Action Cinemas

Located in the Darling Drive opposite Hard Rock Café, 9D Action Cinemas brings you a thrilling multi-dimensional, movie experience that your children would simply fall in love in with. The stimulating and exciting 3D movies with surround sound, ‘active motion’ luxury seats, and dramatic effects such as rain, fog, lightning, wind, snow, touch, feel and more proves to be an overwhelming experience for kids. These movies are specially filmed for 9D to create distinctive visual effects.

Top 3 Cultural Festivals in Atlanta, Georgia during the Month of October

Come October, and Atlanta bursts with a number of events and festivals for people of varied tastes and interests.

atlanta

Be it art enthusiasts or movie buffs and theater lovers – there is something for everyone. The city hosts lots of exciting and culturally rich events in the month of October. Let’s check out some of the main highlights.

Atlanta Arts Festival

The Atlanta Arts Festival will feature around 200 of the best artists in the country. This annual festival is usually celebrated on the second week after the Labour Day, but this year, it will be held on the 24th and 25th of October. The festival displays some of the most magnificent and awe-inspiring art and craftworks including paintings, sculptures, and photographs as well as various other handicrafts made of different materials such as leather, brown glass and metal. Other attractions include art sessions, artists’ demos and live entertainment.

Atlanta Underground Film Festival

Atlanta Underground Film Festival, an annual ritual, will celebrate its 12th anniversary this year. Started in 2004, the festival has been a platform for independent filmmakers of all ages. The film festival will be held on the 9th and the 10th of October and will feature movies of various genres from all around the world. If you are an independent filmmaker, you can submit your work and it may just get selected and showcased here. Tickets to the shows will be available 30 minutes before screening.

Atlanta Black Theatre Festival

Atlanta Black Theatre Festival, also known as the festival of 40 plays in 4 days, is becoming one of the most popular theatre festivals, wherein writers, artists and celebrities from all across the globe come every year and use the stage as the medium to tell stories or to project different themes, emotions and messages. The festival also features live performances, workshops and shopping options.

Three Delightful Options to Enjoy a Stay near Jumeirah Beach, Dubai

Bursting with world-class facilities and exciting attractions, Dubai is a majestic destination. Among its myriad tourist attractions, Jumeirah Beach is certainly one of the top ones.

dubai

The Jumeirah beach is the longest beach in Dubai and stretches from Bur Dubai to Jebel Ali. The Jumeirah Beach Residence facing the beach is a hub of all the major hotels in Dubai. Perhaps, the best part about these hotels lining the beach is that they offer a magnificent view of the Arabian Gulf and parts of Palm Jumeirah. Here are three of our picks of the top hotels near Jumeirah Beach Residence.

JA Ocean View Hotel

Located in a bustling area close to the Jumeirah Beach, this contemporary hotel is the perfect choice for people travelling for leisure as well as business. The property, with its luxurious and modern facilities will rejuvenate your mind and make your experience unforgettable. The hotel is just a 30-minute convenient drive from the Dubai International Airport and around 70 minutes from the Abu Dhabi Airport. Being the only outdoor beachfront promenade with restaurants, shops, and seasonal entertainment events in Dubai, JA Ocean View Hotel is a tourist destination in itself. If you are a foodie, get set to enjoy the scrumptious fares dished out at its seven restaurants and bars.

Hotel Sofitel Dubai

Located in a prime location at the Jumeirah Beach, Hotel Sofitel Dubai is just a short walk from Dubai Marina Mall and 15-minute drive from Ibn Battuta Mall and Mall of Emirates. A stay at this 5-star property places you in one of the best locations of the most dynamic city of U.A.E. The hotel boasts a beautiful blend of French art and Arabic decor that will be a treat to your senses. The panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf from the rooms are truly magnificent. The property’s easy connectivity to Dubai’s business areas, luxury boutiques, cafés, and entertainment spots makes it an ideal option for both business and leisure travellers.

Hilton Dubai The Walk

Hilton Dubai The Walk is located on ‘The Walk,’ in the heart of Jumeirah Beach. The hotel is just a 40-minute drive from the Dubai International Airport. The location of this property in the famous shopping mile makes it a paradise for shopping buffs. There are 15 on-site restaurants, bars, and event venues to add to your experience. You can unwind with a round of golf at the Emirates or Montgomerie golf clubs, or experience adventurous highs at the nearby Ski Dubai and Wild Wadi Waterpark. If you are a sports enthusiast, you can enjoy a wide range of water sports near this hotel.

Top-Notch Tourist Attractions in Morocco’s High Atlas Region

The biggest mountain range in North Africa, the High Atlas, rewards one with views of fertile valleys surrounded by sparkling rivers and cascading waterfalls.  The High Atlas is a haven for photography enthusiasts and has some of the most alluring spots of Morocco. The rugged High Atlas region, and the desert towards its east, is home to Morocco’s most striking and rich historical structures. Let’s have a look at some of the best attractions to explore in the High Atlas ranges.

Ait Ben Haddou

Ait-Ben-Haddou

Ben Haddou Kasbah is one of Morocco’s most photogenic buildings and in fact one of the best-preserved kasbahs in the entire Atlas region as well. This astoundingly surprising structure made of huge orange mud bricks lies nestled amidst lush almond trees. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this Kasbah has been featured in nearly 20 films and has increasingly attracted tourists. You must climb up to the turrets atop the Kasbah to enjoy stunning panoramic views.

Ouzoud Waterfalls

Enclosed by a cape of thousands of olive trees, the three-tiered Ouzoud waterfalls drop 110 metres into a canyon. Situated in a country known for its desert landscapes, this dramatic waterfall creates an attractive contrast and offers great opportunities for photography. You would love to explore the beauty of the falls from various viewpoints. Hire a guide, if you want to go closer to the falls. The Ouzoud falls are at their best from the month of March to June, when the water level is high and the place gets lively with the crowds camping near the waterfalls.

Draa Valley

The Draa Valley is a picturesque oasis home to magnificent Kasbahs, beautiful sand dunes, vast green plains, and Morocco’s largest river–the Draa. The valley is a beautiful blend of nature and history evinced by the ancient cave paintings and carvings found in the area. The town is home to a famous mosque that has a collection of illuminated Qur’ans in its library. The famous statuette of Venus of Tan-Tan, one of the oldest prehistoric sculptures ever discovered, was also found in the Draa Valley. This village is also famed for its cheap pretty green and brown pottery.

Picturesque Attractions for the Nature Lovers in Ooty, India

Often referred to as the ‘Queen of Hill stations’, Ooty lies nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu. Embellished with tall pines, green mountains, and overall picturesque landscape, this beautiful hill station is also home to colonial era bungalows, and some beautiful nature parks.

Ooty by Satheeshkumar K/ CC BY

Ooty by Satheeshkumar K/ CC BY

Located far from the city rush, Ooty offers a pleasant climate throughout the year that attracts leisure tourists as well as honeymooners. To reach Ooty, India by air, you can take a flight to Coimbatore Airport ( which is nearly 90 kilometres from Ooty. This destination offers a wide range of attractions for the nature lovers. Here is our pick of the top three of such attractions.

Botanical Garden

One of the most famous attractions in Ooty, The Botanical Garden boasts over 650 species of flowers and trees. Spread across an area of 22 hectares, this huge garden is located in the heart of the city. The major highlight of this garden is the fossil tree that is believed to be 20 million years old. You can also explore the Toda tribe settlement towards the upper area of the garden and get an insight of their culture and lifestyle.

Upper Bhavani Lake

It would not be wrong to call Upper Bhavani Lake as one of the most tranquil tourist spots of Ooty. This place should top your not to be missed list when you plan a trip to Ooty. The lake is an amazing attraction for nature lovers, photo fanatics, or the ones simply seeking solitude. Upper Bhavani Lake is greenish blue in colour and is said to have the clearest waters one can find in Ooty. This spot is not known to many people, and probably that is the reason behind its serene and pristine qualities.

Doddabetta Peak

At a height of 2,623 metres, Doddabetta Peak is the highest point on the Nilgiris. The peak offers breathtaking views of the green landscapes and blue-tinged mountain scenery. For more spectacular panoramic views, you can use the telescope facility offered atop the hill. Doddabetta Peak is nearly 10 kilometres from the city centre and is one of the favourite haunts of nature buffs.