Monthly Archives: October 2018

Unravel the Glorious Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah

Ras-Al-Khaimah-UAE

One of the finest travel destinations in the UAE, Ras Al Khaimah treats guests to a flurry of delights, promising them an unforgettable Arabian sojourn! Read on and find out about some of the best things to do here, so you can plan an exciting itinerary here in the emirate.

Enjoy rides at Ice Land Water Park

Like an oasis amidst the desert, this water park is a happy retreat for all! This is a place you can relax and unwind at with your entire family. Even if you are visiting Ras Al Khaimah alone, you could make the most of this brilliant place with several rides and attractions to keep you entertained. There are high speed water slides as well as special kids section where they can enjoy the gentler rides.

Explore the Marjan Island

This island is known for all things fun and touristy and you can make the most of your time here. Right from shopping to soaking up the sun to experiencing adventure sports there’s everything here and more. With some of the best hotels, restaurants and shops in the vicinity, this place is perfect for you to spend some lazy days in the lap of luxury.

Check out the exhibits at RAK National Museum

The Ras Al Khaimah National Museum is home to several artefacts, pieces of art, architecture and so on that reveals a lot about the history and culture of the emirate. The art and the tradition is so well displayed here you will be enthralled to walk the halls of this museum and explore it for yourselves.

Drive up the Jebel Al Jais

This mountain range is another spectacular place to visit when in Ras Al Khaimah. It is one of the most aesthetically pleasing landscapes and you will have a great time driving up the mountain on the 20km road. Enjoy terrific views of the surroundings from the vantage points along the road. It also boasts of the world’s longest zip line.

Enjoy the local food

The Emirati cuisine is an exciting prospect for most holidaymakers who are travelling to the region. There are several different types of food and drinks that you can choose from and take this unique culinary journey. You can try dishes such as hummus, shawarma, pita, Iranian kebabs and so on. There are high end experiences as well as street food options and you can choose as per your style and budget.

Five Jamaican Attractions You Can’t Miss Visiting

One of the most famous travel destinations in the Caribbean, Jamaica is an island of absolute beauty that is reflected in its surroundings, its customs, its culture as well as the local way of living. If you are looking to explore this paradisiacal island, start at these top five stunning places:

Caribbean

Montego Bay

Sir Herbert Baker, a great British architect, brought Montego Bay to prominence when he declared that swimming in the waters near the Doctor’s Cave in the bay results in wonderful health benefits. Snorkelling and other water adventures are more pleasurable in the warm Caribbean waters of the bay that are oozing with diverse marine life as is beachcombing with perfect, transparent sand between your toes. Do not let this trick you into thinking that the bustling city life presenting a slice of Jamaican culture and customs evades you in the Montego Bay. The serenity of plush seaside resorts provides a sharp contrast to the bustle of the Hip Strip.

Doctor’s Cave Beach

We have spoken about the apparent medicinal qualities of the waters that wash over the Doctor’s Cave Beach; what we haven’t told you is that the beach boasts perfectly white, crystalline sands along the stretch. One of the most popular beaches in Jamaica, Doctor’s Cave Beach attracts hordes of visitors looking to bask in glory of the tropical sunshine, overlooking cerulean waters and verdant trees that line the shore. Part of the Montego Bay Marine Park, one can snorkel to stunning coral reefs from the beach.

Luminous Lagoon

A breathtaking natural phenomenon, the Luminous Lagoon can be explored on a night tour from the city. The lagoon is home to microscopic organisms that emit a bio-luminescent light when agitated and as your boat approaches the lagoon, you will be able to see many fish in the water and their outlines illuminated from the glow. The boat tour also let visitors swim in the glowing waters with light all around them and as they make splash in the water, more light is emitted by the microscopic organisms that live here. An experience that cannot be missed, a trip to the Luminous Lagoon is one of the best things to do in Jamaica.

Rastafari Indigenous Village

If you are looking for an unparalleled experience in Jamaica, a visit to the Rastafari Indigenous Village is the one for you. Lying just outside the city limits, the main habitants of the village are the indigenous Rastafari people who practise Rastafarianism, a religious movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s. You will learn a lot about deep-seated values of equality, healthy living and connectedness with nature on your visit here. You can take a tour of organic vegetable and herb garden, meet with traditional drum makers as well as buy a souvenir in the form of traditional handicrafts and jewellery.

Martha Brae River Rafting

Adventure enthusiasts will tell you that rafting on the Martha Brae River is going to be one of the best rafting experiences of your life. Most of the rafting expeditions start from the embarkation area called the Rafter’s Village. The serene beauty of the six acres of beautifully manicured lawns situated of the village is an additional perk of the trip. One can also explore Miss Martha’s Herb Garden, representing local medicinal herbs before the trip. The exhilarating raft ride takes over an hour to cover a three mile stretch of the beautiful Martha Brae River and has seen many celebrities line up for enjoying it.

Exciting Things to do in Perth, Australia

perth

Mild Mediterranean climate, miles and miles of sandy beaches and a laid-back vibe – all this makes Perth one of the finest holiday destinations in Australia. Capture the passion for past and the energy for future in Perth, and feel the excitement and adventure as you unravel the city’s character through its many offerings.

Enjoy the Skyline from Kings Park

The jewel in the city’s crown and one of the biggest city parks in the world, Kings Park enjoys a stunning location, overlooking the city and the silken blue waters of the Swan River. Walk down bushland trails and admire manicured gardens while taking in the stunning views of the city skyline, Darling Ranges and the Swan River and Canning River. Also, you can explore various cafes in the area, attend many cultural and ceremonial events and go picnicking with your family and friends.

Opt for a Swan River Cruise

The Swan River links suburbs, the ocean and the hills and a relaxing cruise on the river is a must if you wish to take in the sights of the city. Head from Perth to Fremantle on a cruise and treat your eyes to the stunning views of the city skyline, many sailing boats and some of the architectural wonders of Australia. It is recommended to take the cruise at night when the entire river is dazzled with the glittering city lights.

Go on a day trip to Rottnest Island

With 63 pristine beaches and 20 bays, Rottnest Island is an ideal place to take delight in the picturesque scenery, laid-back atmosphere and the incredible marine life. Fishing, golfing, swimming, diving, snorkelling and kayaking are some of the activities to enjoy here. Quokkas and dolphins and several species of birds can be spotted here on the island.

Relax on Perth’s best beaches

With some excellent city beaches such as Cottesloe, Scarborough, Sorento, Trigg and Leighton, Perth remains a splendid spot for an ideal beach holiday. Treat yourself to a stunning sunset at the Cottesloe Beach where the orange sun seems to drown in the clear blue waters of the ocean! Explore some funky cafes in Scarborough and then take on the waves at North Beach for a wonderful holiday with your friends and groups. Surfers can make way to the Trigg Beach to enjoy the best surfing opportunities.

Explore the historic Fremantle

Located just 30 minutes from downtown Perth, Fremantle is a port city appealing to travellers with its maritime history and fascinating Victorian architecture. Famed as the “world’s best preserved example of a 19th century port streetscape”, this is where you can discover colonial remnants such as the Arts Centre and Old Courthouse and Fremantle Prison. You can explore a wide array of seafood restaurants, and bars and cafes here, and can enjoy a stroll through the markets of this port city. Besides, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the famous “Little Creatures Brewery” where you can try delicious wood-fired pizzas and great craft beer!

Street Shopping in Hong Kong – Visit 5 Most Popular Street Markets

Besides being home to the famous Disneyland, Ocean Park and Lantau Island, Hong Kong is also known as a shoppers’ paradise with a wide array of shopping malls and street markets.

shopping

But it is the street shopping in Hong Kong that promises the most exciting experience to shoppers who visit this former British Colony from all over the world.

Temple Street Market

The largest night market in Hong Kong, Temple Street Market is not just a terrific place to buy interesting stuff but also an exciting spot to spend some beautiful evenings. This 600-metre long, lively market lies in Kowloon, just one block west from Jordan MTR Station. From fake label clothing, watches and footwear to cooking ware and household items, you can shop for all kinds of stuff here. Moreover, you can enjoy delicious street food at this market.

Ladies Market

Ladies Market boasts of three parallel streets and is always teeming with tourists. Located close to the MTR Station, it is a busy shopping street with a number stalls, selling clothes, footwear, fashion jewellery, souvenirs and trinkets. Don’t let the name of the market fool you, there’s plenty of stuff for men and kids too! Do try street food snacks such as fish balls, won ton noodles and crepes while here.

Jade Market

The biggest outdoor market in Kowloon, Jade Market is a jewellery wholesale and retail area, popular among tourists as well as locals. You can buy jade, pearls, semi-pearls in all sizes, shapes and forms – be it in the form of jewellery, little statues, carvings or chops. Located between the Jordan MTR and Yau Ma Tei MTR stations, the market is a must visit for anyone who has a fondness for the glittering stones!

Stanley Market

An erstwhile fishing village, Stanley Market is an ideal place to enjoy the cultural charms of Hong Kong. Situated in south Hong Kong Island, near the beach, the market is famed for selling art and crafts, calligraphy paintings, faux-antiques and a wide array of other souvenirs. Besides shopping, you can enjoy a stroll along the beach and take delight in the beautiful surroundings of the place. Also, there are different restaurants and bars in the area – where you can enjoy the local favourites!

Jardine’s Crescent Market

Jardine’s Crescent Market is a roadside market that appeals mostly to teens and young adults. Like the Ladies Market, the place offers fashion products, ranging from apparel and socks to accessories, watches and knick-knacks. Indeed, a visit to Causeway Bay is not complete without unravelling what Jardine’s Crescent Market has to offer!

Canadian Halloween at Its Scariest Best!

Canada is always buzzing with excitement around the Halloween and this year is no different. If you do happen to visit Canada during Halloween, there are several interesting places to visit

Halloween

Halloween by Professor Bop CC BY

and things to do here. Have a look at some of the most popular Halloween events across different Canadian provinces.

British Columbia

There are extremely interesting events you can be a part of such as Festival of Fear Galey Farms Corn of Maze, Cornfield of Horror, CarnEVIL, Haunted Crazy Train, and Madame Isabella. Right from spooky tales to monsters and ghouls, the adventure here never ends. You can participate in themed parties where you dress up in your scariest best and make the most of this amazing holiday with family and friends.

Manitoba

People in Manitoba are big on the Halloween and you can visit the Fort la Reine Museum to witness the glorious spooky past of the region. The awe inspiring and realistic decoration around the Halloween is going to transport you right into a real scary movie and you are going to wince every so often!

Ontario

One of the most famous Halloween events here is the Haunted Halloween Weekend at Mew Lake. The trick or treating, wolf howl, pumpkin carving and several other theme-special activities are going to enthral you and keep you extremely interested. This is a place you can visit with your entire family and have the best of times.

Saskatchewan

Boo Town, in the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon, is one of the most thrilling, haunted places you can visit. From games to rides, you can explore a world full of possibilities here. Do make pre-bookings so that you can have fun without having to wait in long lines. The Haunted Corn Maze in Haunted House is another place you can visit this Halloween for the best games and events. The Ghost Walk is one of their most famous activities and you can become a part of it here.

Quebec

The Aquarium du Quebec is one of the best places to be this Halloween. One of the best Halloween parties ever, the Great Pumpkin Ball at the Montreal Space for Life is something you shouldn’t miss if you’re around. The fireworks, the giant leaf fight, and the longest maze in the country are some of the things to look forward to at the L’Halloween a La Pocatiere.

Top Holiday Destinations across the East Africa

Volcanoes-National-Park

East Africa, with its stunning landscape, wonderful wildlife, warm tropical climate and cultural riches, makes for one of the finest places to enjoy an exciting holiday. Below listed are some of major tourist destinations across East Africa, promising you all thrilling adventures.

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Kenya

A large game reserve in southwestern Kenya, Maasai Mara National Reserve remains an incredibly popular wildlife destination, tempting enthusiasts from far and wide. Located along the Tanzanian border, this national park is famed for its large population of lions, cheetahs and leopards. The sweeping Savannah plains, incredible waterways and rolling hills here promise a delightful time to the travellers who hope to explore more than just the wildlife. For accommodation, there are lots options around the park.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Rwanda

Snuggled deep within the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is the oldest national park of Africa and is one of the continent’s best places to spot the endangered mountain gorilla. Bordering Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the park is loved by people for its trekking safaris. Spot golden monkeys and a variety of reptiles, birds, insects and amphibians besides gorillas.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Lying at the junction of the plain and mountain forests, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is an adventurer’s paradise in south-western Uganda. Home to half of the world’s population of gorillas, this park promises exciting trekking tours and safaris. Spot African golden cats, chimpanzees, bushbucks and forest elephants. Also, it is a biodiversity hotspot with a variety of tree species and endemic butterflies and one of Africa’s richest mammalian assemblages.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Tanzania

A Tanzanian national park renowned for its spectacular annual migration of zebra and wildebeest, Serengeti National Park promises a terrific experience to wildlife enthusiasts. The open plains, scattered with acacia trees, and grazing game as well as predators like lion and cheetah invite wildlife lovers for an experience of a lifetime. You can combine your trip to Maasai Mara with a visit to Serengeti National Park for a truly unique safari experience.

Omo River Region, Ethiopia

Known all over the world for its decorated tribes, Omo River Region is the largest river in Ethiopia outside the Nile Basin. Situated in the southern Ethiopia, it is one of the remotest areas of East Africa appealing to holidaymakers with its incredible scenery. It is part of the famous Great Rift Valley of Africa where you would love to make a cultural visit along with enjoying white-water rafting on the famous rapids of the area. Besides, this is a perfect gateway to different villages and towns, all teaching you about the distinctive culture and diversity of Africa.

6 Souvenirs to Take Back Home from Morocco

A visit to Morocco is an experience of a lifetime! Be it Tangier in the north, Casablanca in the centre or Marrakesh in the south, there is a lot to explore and take delight here in the country, amidst long beaches, high mountains and sweeping deserts.

Morocco

Morocco is rather famous for offering tourists a wide range of traditional souvenirs, be it the hand-made pottery or colourful lanterns. Read on and find out about some of the most amazing souvenirs that you can buy during your visit to Morocco.

Djellabas

Djelleba is a Moroccan dress for both men and women that can easily be bought in different parts of the country. It is an attractive, long, loose-fitting outer robe which originated in Morocco and is majorly worn in the Maghreb region of North Africa. Djellabas usually come in a wide range of material, colours and patterns for both men and women. Locals choose to wear them in neutral colours such as such as black, grey or olive.

Pottery

Moroccan art is influenced by a variety of cultures which is reflected, among other things, through its souvenirs including pottery. Covered with complex Arabesque and geometric patterns, Moroccan pottery are hand-made ceramics and an amazing piece of art used to decorate homes. You can pick a few in different shapes, sizes, forms and colours and gift them to your loved ones back home.

Moroccan Leather

Highly unique and renowned all over the world, the leather in Morocco is tanned in Gothic style and still seems to have a fascinating allure like it used to have centuries ago. From slippers, jackets and bags to belts and wallets, anything and everything made from Moroccan leather appeals to the tourists. The traditional colour of the leather is red or black, but it is available in all colours these days.

Lanterns

There is something about the beauty of Moroccan lighting that appeals to a majority of people from far and wide. Be it the chandeliers, lamps or lanterns, the unique and eye-catching designs make them a real exotic treat for homes. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colours, and are available in most of the markets across the country.

Babouche

Called Babouche in French and Belgha in Moroccan, they are traditional, oriental style heelless slippers worn by men, women and children through the centuries. Most of the locals in the country are seen wearing them in different styles. If you are a shoe lover, do not forget to purchase Babouche on your next trip to Morocco. They come in a variety of colours, shapes, patterns and materials.

Rugs and carpets

Handmade Moroccan rugs and carpets in bright tinges are woven by the indigenous people of Morocco. Red and black-white rugs designed with sequins are popular here and can be seen adorning homes all over the world. There are a number of rug shops here selling them at cheaper rates. You can also get them customised them as per your choice and can even watch the process of their designing.

Five Places to Eat at in the Vegetarians’ Paradise, Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai

With Bangkok, Phuket and Krabi being done to dust, travellers are seeking unexplored locations that still retain the original charm of Thailand. The laid-back Chiang Mai, with its stunning architecture, lush countryside and ancient temples fits the bill perfectly. What is even more exciting about Chiang Mai is that the city is taking active steps towards sustainable tourism, including the opening of a great variety of vegetarian restaurants serving a range of local and international delicacies in an environment-friendly way.

Here are our top picks for places to eat at in Chiang Mai, if you are a vegetarian:

Pun Pun

Its name translating to ‘Thousand Varieties’ , the Pun Pun restaurant serves organic fare aimed towards sustainability. Owned by Jon Jondai of the eponymous organic farm, the restaurant serves an array of popular Thai dishes, including some of the classics that you won’t find elsewhere in the town. Featuring a huge courtyard underneath a Boddhi tree and set against the stunning backdrop of Wat Suan Dok temple, the ambiance of Pun Pun restaurant  impresses as much as the food. Patrons visiting the restaurant will shell out between £O.84-1 for most dishes.

Beetroot Stories

Sitting in the busy courtyard of the Kad Klang Wiang Plaza, Beetroot Stories has perfected a range of popular vegetarian Thai dishes, western cuisine, breakfasts, fresh salads and sandwiches. The restaurant’s name owes inspiration to ample representation of beetroot on its menu, especially amongst salads and juices. Trying to make patrons eat healthy, the restaurant ensures that all its rice dishes are served with brown rice. Don’t go missing the sumptuous smoothies on offer especially the chocolate banana coconut or peanut butter banana chocolate smoothies.

AUM

One of the oldest vegetarian restaurants in Chiang Mai, AUM has a base of loyal followers who keep coming back here for its home-style fare. The feeling of eating at home is emphasised by floor seating arrangements for which you will have to remove your shoes and sit on cushions on the floor. The restaurant has an extensive menu featuring some great Thai dishes as well as western fare. Fried pumpkin with mushrooms and tempeh is a must-try as is vegan and vegetarian sushi. Those looking forward to eating healthy can consider sweet potato or steamed tofu.

Dada Kafe

Erring on the right side of healthy, the Dada Kafe serves a plethora of local delicacies along with a range of western dishes. You will only have to walk a few steps from the popular Tha Pae Gate on Ratmakka Road to reach to a stunning site –flowers hanging from baskets and reaching the road and a row of colourful lights, making the restaurant stand-out. If you are susceptible to hot weather, please know that the restaurant is not air-conditioned. Some of the dishes that you can’t leave the restaurant without trying include ‘Carpaccio’ of pineapple, basil and ice cream, fried potato & cheese balls, avocado on toast or fried breaded tofu balls. The smoothie selection of the restaurant is massive and has a match to all kinds of temperaments and moods.

Khun Churn

Khun Churn brings the food dreams of ardent vegetarians alive by offering a delectable all-you-can eat buffet. The buffet features a range of soups, a huge salad bar, Khao Soi, tofu and grilled vegetables, various rice and noodles dishes and a large selection of herbal teas and fresh fruit water. Savour mixed mushrooms and coloured bell peppers stir fried in a light chili-based prik pao, with the side of authentic brown rice as well as kanom jeen gaeng het, or soft rice noodles covered in mushroom curry to have a burst of flavours in your mouth.