Monthly Archives: April 2018

Holidays to Hong Kong – Top Experiences to Unravel In the City

hongkong

Ancient architectural wonders, rich wildlife, great hospitality, modern temptations, and a vibrant culture – Hong Kong has every element that makes for a great holiday experience. Read on to learn about some of the city’s most appealing experiences that present a wonderful time to the travellers.

Sightseeing

Be it soaring skyscrapers, colonial forts, ancient temples, or terrific theme parks, Hong Kong has the best of it all, treating its guests with the finest of touristy wonders. Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island, Peak Tram, Clock Tower and Hong Kong Museum of History are some of the most well known attractions in the city, ones which you certainly must visit. If you wish to visit a Buddhist temple, head to Tian Tan Buddha, also known as Big Buddha, one of the noted Buddhist temples in the region.

Beaches

A great place to enjoy the best of sun and sand as well as a range of thrilling water sports, Hong Kong beaches promise an unforgettable time to the visitors. Ham Tin Wan, Clearwater Bay, Kwun Yam Wan, Cheung Sha, Big Wave Bay, Turtle Cove and Pui O, Hap Mun and Repulse Bay are among the most frequented beaches here. Besides sunbathing and swimming, snorkelling, diving and kayaking are the popular activities among the travellers visiting these beaches. Live music shows, food festivals and beach parties are held regularly at most of these beaches. Moreover, whales, turtles and other marine animals can be spotted at some of these beaches.

Food

Hong Kong has a fabulous food scene with the city being home to several outstanding restaurants. If we talk about traditional delicacies that remain must try for tourists in Hong Kong, the likes of wontons (dumplings) roast goose, wind sand chicken, fake shark fin soup, shrimp and chicken balls, phoenix talons (chicken feet), steamed shrimp dumplings, fish balls and sweet sour pork come to mind. Apart from enjoying food at the upscale restaurants or causal cafes, you can enjoy the local fare at street side eateries.

Wildlife

With over two-thirds of the city’s territory comprising of wetland reserves, protected parks and natural habitats, Hong Kong is home to many species of birds and animals including a few native and endangered ones. You can spot monkeys, bats, wild bears, pink dolphins, black faced spoonbill, masked palm civet, red lacewing butterflies, ring tailed lemur, purple heron, rufous burrowing snake, green turtle and water buffalo here in Hong Kong. Aberdeen Country Park, Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve, Mai Po Nature Reserve, Sai Kung East Country Park and Kowloon Park are among the noted wildlife conservation parks here.

Shopping

Be it unique souvenirs, Chinese artworks, silk products, antique jewellery or artefacts, you can find a lot of stuff at Hong Kong markets. Kowloon Street, Temple Street Night Market, Jade Market and Jade Street, Stanley Market and Ladies Market are some of the areas where you can shop for all kinds of interesting and unique stuff. If you are looking for luxury labels and brands, visit popular malls such as Elements Shopping Mall, IFC Mall and Pacific Place.

Festivals

festival

Offering a glimpse into the rich and vibrant culture of Hong Kong, the festivals hosted by the city are massively popular among the tourists. Chinese New Year, Spring Lantern Festival, Ching Ming Festival, Tin Hau, Cheung Chau Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Buddha’s Birthday and Hungry Ghost Festival offer travellers a wonderful opportunity to revel in the region’s splendid cultural flair.

Nightlife

hongkong-nightlife

Home to beautiful night markets, illuminating harbours, pristine beaches, and exciting bars and clubs, Hong Kong assures revellers of a great time. Popular party spots in the city include Lan Kwai Fong and Soho, Wan Chai, Volar, Ce La Vi Hong Kong,   Play Club, Dragon-i, Drop, Fly Hong Kong, Magnum and Tasmania Ballroom. Also, the world’s largest light and sound show, Symphony of Lights in Hong Kong is a must experience.

Culture

Culture

A beautiful fusion of diverse religious groups and nationalities such as Cantonese, British, Indians and Shanghainese, Hong Kong culture, understandably, is quite diverse. Best reflected in the architecture, temples, festivals, events, sports, languages and food, this fascinating city is surely a cultural delight! In fact, Cantonese Opera is a classic example of the prevalent Cantonese customs and practices.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cambodia

Bordered by Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east and Thailand to the northwest, Cambodia, a Southeast Asian nation captures attention with its ideal blend of ancient and modern. From stunning temples and tropical beaches to colonial buildings, Cambodia has it all to present a perfect holiday filled with many exciting experiences. Check out some of the top-rated travel destinations to visit in the country.

Angkor Wat

Angkor-Wat

Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia which was built around the first half of 12th century and draws many tourists every year. It was originally designed as a Hindu temple but progressively turned into a Buddhist temple by the end of 12th century. With a 65-metre high central tower lined by four smaller towers and a series of enclosure walls all around, the layout of Angkor Wat replicates the image of Mount Meru which is known as a legendary place in Hindu mythology lying beyond the Himalayas and known to be the home of Gods.

Koh Ker

An old capital of Cambodia, Koh Ker is another ancient archaeological site in Northern Cambodia. It is home to around 96 temples, each having its own importance and beauty. Built by King Jayavaraman to worship Treypuvanesvara, the god of happiness, Koh Ker Temple is situated on Chhork Koki highland and looks like a small hill. It faces west towards Ankor City and amazes visitors with its 36 metres’ height and appearance of a seven-ventured stupa.

Phnom Penh

Phnom-Penh

Situated on the banks of the Bassac, Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers, Phnom Penh is a city loved for its rich colonial architecture, culture and modernity. Royal Palace, Independence Monument and Tuol Sleng Museum are some of its attractions reflecting true French panache and history. Serving as the royal residence of King Norodom Sihamoni, Phnom Penh Royal Palace attracts visitors with its splendid colours and dazzling piece of Khmer styled architecture.

Bokor Hill Station

Built by the French in the 1920s, Bokor is a mysterious resort perched atop Bokor Mountain, providing a stunning backdrop to the serene riverside town, Kampot. Designed as a luxurious retreat for colonial residents, this resort and its abandoned buildings have an eerie, ghost-town feel and thus, it captures the attention of large number of adventure enthusiasts from all around.

Tonle Sap

A tranquil place with a number of natural attractions under one roof, Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The dimension of the lake changes dramatically with the seasons. During dry season, from November to May, the lake drains into the Mekong River at Phnom Penh whereas the flow of the lake changes directions and a huge lake is formed during rainy season from June to October. Housing a number of ethnic Vietnamese and Cham communities residing in floating villages around the lake, Tonle Sap is a delightful holiday destination to explore in Cambodia.

Top 5 Places to Explore in Uttarakhand

A state bordered by Tibet and Nepal, and outlined by the Himalayan Peaks, Uttarakhand is a North India province full of unspoiled beauty. Mountains, forests, valleys, ancient spiritual places and myriad of trekking opportunities – this picturesque state has everything in store to make your travel worthwhile. Check out some of the most captivating places you can explore in Uttarakhand on your next trip to India.

Mussoorie

Situated on a mountain valley at a height of 6,170 feet, Mussoorie, the pride of Uttarakhand is also known as the queen of the hills. With its captivating landscapes, scenic views and lush green fauna, the hill station makes for a wonderful holiday destination to connect to the nature

Mussoorie

and find bliss. It is where tourists can indulge in various activities such as taking a cable ride to Gun Hill, picnicking at Kempty Falls, taking a horse ride up to Lal Tibba, the highest peak in Mussoorie and enjoying a nature walk along Camel’s Back Road.

Jim Corbett National Park

Corbett-national-park

One of the most popular national parks in India, Jim Corbett draws wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world. Formerly renowned as Haley’s National Park, this forested wildlife sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna and is known for its population of Bengal tigers. Comprising hills, riverine belts, grasslands, marshy depressions and large lake, this place is a delightful holiday spot to discover. You can explore the park by jeep or elephant safaris which take place in the early mornings and afternoons and can spot four to five species of deer, rich birdlife, elephants and Royal Bengal Tiger (if you are lucky enough).

Nainital

nainital

Nestled in the arms of Kumaon Hills, Nainital is India’s one of the most popular getaways for families and couples. Situated by the well-known Naini Lake in the valley and teeming with natural hot water springs, this hill station is divided into two parts – Mallital and Tallital that are separated by the lake. Named after Goddess Naini Devi and also known as the lake district of Uttarakhand, this town is believed to have the blessings of Lord Shiva. Trekking, yachting and horse-riding are some of the exciting activities to indulge in here.

Rishikesh

Situated in the Himalayan foothills beside the River Ganges, Rishikesh is a true haven for peace and adventure seekers. Equally popular for yoga, pilgrimage and adventure sports, this beautiful retreat is visited by travellers from across the globe every year. Located at an elevation of 356 metres above sea level,

Rishikesh rafting

Rishikesh is quite popular for offering various adventurous activities such as trekking, camping and majorly, rafting. Besides, it is also known for the Char Dham Yatra which ideally begins from Rishikesh and is also a getaway to the lovely Valley of Flowers National Park.

Almora

Located at an altitude of 5,417 feet in the Kumaon region, Almora is another beautiful hill station renowned for its scenic landscape and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by the thick forests of fir and pine trees, the town draws backpackers to its divine atmosphere.  Every year hundreds of tourists from around the world visit its nearby Kasar Devi Temple, where Swami Vivekananda used to meditate. Some other major attractions include Nanda Devi and Golu Devta Temples. Moreover, one should not miss visiting Katarmal, an 800 year old Sun Temple and enjoying the sunset and sunrise at Bright End Corner.

Top 5 Beach Destinations in Central America

Beach-Destinations

With the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean on either side of it, the Central America is home to some of the most captivating beach destinations in the world. If you are planning a beach holiday in Central America anytime soon, you need to know about these top five beach destinations that ensure a terrific experience to all travellers.

Monterrico, Guatemala

Situated on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, Monterrico is a beautiful town famed for its black-sanded, volcanic beaches and annual influx of sea turtles. Steeped with a sultry, tropical flavour and amazing volcanoes and lined by resorts and homes with thatched roof and rustic-wooden slat, the town is fast becoming popular among travellers as a thrilling beach excursion from Antigua or Guatemala City. This town is also popular among surfers due to the strong tides here.

Roatan, Honduras

One of Honduras’s Caribbean Bay Islands, Roatan attracts huge crowds of tourists from across the globe. Part of the enormous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the island is popular for its marvellous beaches, thrilling dive sites and wonderful marine life including whale sharks. With their reef protected waters, the beaches are ideal for kayaking, snorkelling and swimming with dolphins and many other water adventures. A shopping mall, a string of resort hotels and a cruise-ship terminal are other exciting features of this town.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

The largest island in Belize, Ambergris Caye was declared the best destination in Central America by the World Travel Awards. Sitting on the second largest coral reef in the world, the island presents a relaxed Caribbean vibe along with incredible diving, snorkelling, cruising and caving opportunities on the beaches. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the great Blue Hole are some of the best diving sites here. Taking a boat from the mainland or Caye Calker, or flying in are the only ways to get to the Ambergris Caye.

San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

Located on Nicaragua’s southwest coast, San Juan Del Sur is the hub of stunning southern Pacific beaches. Famed for its clipboard Victorian houses, a gigantic statue of Christ on a neighbouring hillside and incredible surfing and fishing opportunities, this town is an ideal beach destination with dozens of beaches on the Pacific Ocean. Here, each beach is unique with its own ocean current and geography and can be easily accessed by shuttle, rental car or taxi. Besides, with a wonderful assortment of dining, drinking, nightlife and shopping venues, this place makes for a perfect holiday spot.

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast is perhaps the most beautiful national park in the world, packed with white-sand beaches, coral reefs and rugged rainforest. While the park excites you with all kinds of thrilling wildlife and dense jungle stretches, the pristine white sand and sparkling blue waters of the beaches are just picture perfect. Playa Espadilla, Playa Espadilla Sur and La Playita are some of most popular beaches here.

Holidays in California – 5 of the Lesser Known Places You Must Visit

california

If you’ve been to California more than once, chances are you have explored most of its well-known tourist destinations. We are talking about the likes of San Francisco, Disneyland, Los Angeles and San Diego. But we all know there is a lot more to California!  We will take you through some of the ‘not-so well-known’ tourist gems of California that surely deserve a visit from you!

Hearst Castle

While the grand mansions in Malibu are the finest historical attractions in California to explore, there is Hearst Castle in Cambria that has its own historical significance that attracts travellers. Designed by architect Julian Morgan for newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, it is a magnificent castle transformed into a sprawling estate of expansive gardens and three houses. History and architecture lovers should not miss a visit to this place to admire its different architectural influences. With its magnificent Neptune Pool designed in the Roman Style and mesmerising views of the Pacific Ocean, it is a must-visit attraction in California.

Pismo Beach

A city situated on the Central Californian Coast, Pismo Beach is beautiful town that has a warm, energetic vibe. This long, wide beach is often overlooked by the tourists visiting the San Francisco Bay Area or the Los Angeles Basin. Surrounded by cliffs and the expansive Pacific Ocean, this town has numerous attractions such as Dinosaur Caves Park, Elmer Ross Beach, Pismo Beach Pier Beach and more. It sure is an ideal place to have fun in the sun and indulge in a variety of adventures like hiking, fishing, horse riding, kayaking and more.

Fort Bragg

Three hours north of San Francisco off of Highway 1, Fort Bragg is the perfect getaway away from the busy city life, promising a memorable time to those seeking a peaceful retreat with a beautiful Northern California coastline and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. What makes this city a must-visit is its Glass Beach, a shore full of colourful glass stones! Built by a former army garrison during the American Civil War, Fort Bragg is where you can take a long walk along the Glass Beach, ride a horse along the beach, stroll along the coast at MacKerricher National Park and take a ride on the historic Skunk Train.

Sierra City

Situated an hour northwest of Truckee on Highway 49 in the canyon of the North Yuba River, Sierra City is a historical and picturesque location with a lot to impress the visitors. Established as a mining town in 1850, it is where miners used to retrieve gold from a number of tunnels in the nearby Sierra Buttes. While its numerous quaint lodging and dining options promise a relaxing stay amidst the charms of nature, an array of adventure opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing, rafting, snow-mobiling and more around the lakes, thrills the senses of adventure seekers.

Redwoods in Arcata

Flaunting a laid-back lifestyle amidst its expansive forests, Arcata is a city located in Humboldt County adjacent to Arcata Bay. Home to Humboldt State University, the city enjoys a youthful, artistic and intellectual ambience. Redwood National Forest, in the proximity of Arcata, is the biggest attraction among the nature and adventure lovers. The bay presents stunning views of the Pacific Ocean whereas the imposing redwoods on the other side of the city are perfect for hiking.

5 of the Most Popular Ashrams in India

Aside from diverse historical legacies and overwhelming natural beauty, India is a land popular among travellers who are in pursuit of spirituality, solace and bliss. The country is blessed with

Ashrams in Indiamany ashrams (a spiritual/religious hermitage), where thousands come to rejuvenate, heal their mind and soul, and discover the undiscovered about body, life and universe.
Read on and learn about some of the most popular ashrams of India.

The Art of Living Ashram Intern, Bangalore

Founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1982, the Art of Living ashram is one of the largest humanitarian and educational centres all across the globe. The ashram is well-known for its self development programmes based on breathing techniques, meditation and yoga, and is ideal for those from different cultural traditions and religious backgrounds. The Art of Living as a voluntary organisation also focuses on women empowerment and takes initiatives aimed at enriching humanity and enhancing the quality of life.

OSHO International Meditation Resort, Pune

Located in one of India’s better planned cities, Pune, the OSHO International Meditation Centre is a popular spiritual centre that has 200,000 visitors annually. It provides various kinds of meditation programmes and aims at combining self-understanding with awareness techniques. Unlike many ashrams, there’s no gender segregation here. Most of the courses provided by the OSHO Ashram are directed towards healing from traumatic past experiences and inner development.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba Ashram, Puttaparthi

Located near Puttaparthi village in Andhra Pradesh – the birthplace of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, this ashram aims at helping people to recognise the divinity in them. It is where thousands of spiritual travellers from diverse cultures, faiths and races visit and experience the pure love and blessings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The ashram aims at enhancing the people’s belief in God and encouraging them to live a highly moral life and help the needy.

Swami Dayananda Ashram, Rishikesh

One of the best maintained ashrams in North India, this ashram was founded in 1960s by Swami Dayanand Saraswati and is a traditional centre of Vedanta and Sanskrit. Situated in the midst of beautiful greenery overlooking the magnificent Himalaya and River Ganges, this is an Rishikeshideal place to seek peace and harmony in the lap of nature. The ashram conducts regular yoga courses with the help of a number of teachers to assist people achieve personal development and self-attainment; regular Vedanta camps are also held every year that provide spiritual teachings.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry

Placed in the beautiful town of Pondicherry, this ashram was founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a French saint Mirra Alfassa renowned as the Mother. The ashram focuses on working towards the creation of a new world and a new humanity. This place does not follow strict obligatory practices and works on the principle “Surrender to the Divine”. A vivacious centre of life in a modern setting, this ashram has grown into a diversified society with several members.