Category Archives: Indian Ocean

A Few Must-have Experiences at Praslin Island, Seychelles

About 25 miles north of Mahé, the capital of Seychelles, lies the spectacular Praslin Island.

Seychelles

Blessed with many natural and man-made marvels, the island is a fascinating tourist destination that draws holidaymakers from far and wide.

Seychelless

Be it sparkling white beaches, enchanting forests, lofty mountains or exotic marine life – Praslin Island is simply a beauty to behold. We’ve compiled a list of some must-have experiences at the destination.

Visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is one of Seychelles’ only two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the other being the isolated Aldabra Atoll. While the nature reserve is famous for its dense Coco-de-Mer forests and the endangered Seychelles Black Parrot, there are plenty of other exciting things too. You can enjoy camping, fishing and canoeing in this stunningly beautiful forest. The reserve is home to exotic wildlife and hence is big draw for wildlife buffs and shutterbugs alike.

Try Deep Sea Diving

Considered one of the best diving sites in the Seychelles, Praslin Island is famous for its colourful marine life. Take a diving excursion to spot the rare and endangered marine species such as reef sharks, sting rays and turtles. Though there are more than 15 diving sites to choose from, one of the most popular spots is Côte d’Or. The various hotels and resorts at Praslin Island arrange half as well as full day diving trips to the place.

Try your Luck at Casino des Iles

Like to try your hand at gambling? Head to the famous Casino des Iles and enjoy gaming and other nightlife revelries. The place is a popular tourist spot, with its casinos, clubs and restaurants offering unending fun after sunset. The minimum age limit is 18 years, and the casino tables operate daily between 20:30 and 03:00.  The Tante Mimi Restaurant here serves delectable Creole cuisine.

Spend a day at Anse Lazio beach

No words can do justice to the surreal charms of Anse Lazio beach. Ranked one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Anse Lazio is a haven for solitude seekers and romantics. Take in the breathtaking views of the white powdery sands, turquoise waters and surrounding green landscapes. You can also enjoy some water sports to complete you fun-filled day at this famous beach on Praslin Island.

Getting around Maldives – Tips for First-time travellers

When before booking tickets for a holiday destination, it’s better to find out about small things such as the accommodation options, weather, local cultures and the different modes of transport available there.

maldives

The best way to get to a place from another in Maldives is by walking. Malé, the capital city of Maldives is just about a square mile in area and all of the landmarks are in walking distance from one another. But if you would like to go for island hopping, Yacht is the best option as it is faster and easier than the ferry or the local boat (known as “dhoni”) and is easier for navigation.  Here are the best modes of transport that you can choose in your holiday to Maldives.

Yacht

If you can spend a generous amount of money, then this is the best mode of transport you’ll get when travelling from one island in the archipelago to the other.

Yacht

Yachts can easily glide through the isolated reefs and the remote islands.  Various resorts in the islands have their private docks for the convenience of the travellers arriving and leaving through the yachts. As visiting the non-resort islands is prohibited by the government of Maldives, it is important to see where you are choosing to anchor. We would recommend you to travel with a licensed tour guide/operator as they will have proper licence and will know the rules and regulations. Also, if you are lucky, they can even take you to the islands that are usually off limits to the tourists,

Ferry

Although the local ferry network is confined to some major places, it is the best option for cruises and if you want to experience the traditional and cultural aspects of the Maldives. Their network is limited to the four routes with specific schedules and can be checked on their government’s transit website.

Motorbikes

In Malé, you will be able to see some motorbikes, making their way through the narrow lanes and crowded streets. However, for safety reasons, we’d advise you not to rent one unless you are an expert rider. Moreover, since all landmarks are roughly a fifteen minute walk away, there is hardly any use for motorbikes.

Taxis

There are several taxis in Malé which are useful is you are carrying too much luggage or if you’re stuck in a thunderstorm. You can both call for the taxi services or hail a taxi on the streets. Luggage costs extra if it is more than a certain amount.

Three Popular Tourist Destinations in Sri Lanka

When it comes to culture and heritage, Sri Lanka easily remains one of the most popular destinations in South Asia. There are various places of interest in the island country, which attracts tourists from all around the world. With abundant natural landscapes, tea plantations, temples and markets, buying flight tickets to this beautiful country, is worth every penny. Have a look at our pick of top tourist destinations in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya

Sigiriya

Sigiriya, or the Stone Lion, situated atop a rock plateau stands on the site of the erstwhile palace of King Kasyapa built in the 5th century.  The fortress is one of the most unique and mysterious ancient sites in Sri Lanka and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. There are beautiful ancient frescos here that date back to about 1500 years. This beautiful and mysterious site is a famous pilgrimage site for the Sri Lankans.

Kandy

Kandy

Kandy holds a vital place in the history of Sri Lanka. In 1815, this was the last place where the power was handed over by the King of Sinhala to the British Empire. Kandy is also a popular place for the Buddhists, as there are numerous Buddhist heritage sites here. The highlight of the trip to this beautiful place is Dalada Maligawa, or the Temple of the Tooth, which is said to contain the tooth of Gautama Buddha in a well-guarded casket. If you are a history-buff, this place is a must visit.

Colombo

A trip to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, requires lots of planning. Colombo’s strategic location on the coastline lures a large number of tourists every year. The city is modern and has state-of-the-art infrastructure, including restaurants, luxury hotels, shopping centres, al fresco cafe options and a good transport system. There are various tourist attractions in the capital which were mostly constructed during the colonial era. If you want to experience the flavour of the native culture, you should definitely plan a trip to Pettah; a traditional bazaar. Haggling is common here and you will be able to shop for things at a much cheaper rate.

Four Fascinating Museums and Galleries in Lahore, Pakistan

Lahore, as a cultural, intellectual, and artistic hub wins thousands of hearts. This city is a haven for the lovers of art, history and architecture. From formidable Mughal monuments to faded legacies of the British Raj, Lahore has it all for you. The city boasts a wide array of museums that narrate a rich history and galleries that exhibit the excellent work of highly talented souls. Read on to know about a few such mind blowing museums and art galleries that will enrich your trip to Lahore.

Lahore Museum

Lahore Museum by Guilhem Vellut/ CC BY

Lahore Museum by Guilhem Vellut/ CC BY

The Lahore Museum is the biggest and the most impressive museum in Pakistan. This superb museum houses almost 20 galleries with articles dating from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Gandharan sculpture (especially the haunting Fasting Buddha), miniature paintings, Qurans, carpets, artefacts from Mohan-jo-daro, Harappa and other Indus Valley civilisation sites, and a collection of coins from the Achaemenian period onwards are a few displays this museum is famed for.

Alhamra Art Gallery

The Alhamra Art Gallery boasts Lahore’s largest permanent collection of artwork. This gallery is situated in the premises of the Alhamra Cultural Complex. Divided across two floors, this art gallery exhibits great pieces of artwork by eminent Pakistani artists. You can also enjoy some musical and theatrical performances and events that occasionally happen in this complex. A visit to this gallery is like a deep dive into the appreciable art of Pakistan.

Chughtai Museum

Named after Muhammad Abdur Rahman Chughtai (credited as Pakistan’s greatest painter) who died in 1975, the Chughtai Museum is situated northwest of the intersection of Ferozpur Rd and Gulberg Main Blvd. Chughtai produced almost 2000 water colours, thousands of pencil sketches, and nearly 300 etchings and aquatints. He also designed many of Pakistan’s stamps and coins. You can also contact the director, Mr Arif Rahman Chughtai in advance, if you wish to see other works of Chughtai that are not displayed in the museum.

Ejaz Galleries

Situated just off MM Alam Road Ejaz Galleries is famous for its innovative collection of paintings created by talented Pakistani artists. The work of these artists will leave you stunned for sure! This museum should top the list of attractions, especially for the ones who have an inclination towards art. The best part is that you can even take any of these paintings home as they are also available for sale.

Three Popular Beaches of Pakistan

Pakistan is famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage, but not many know that the coastline of Pakistan has its fine share of spectacular beaches.

pakistan

In fact, you will find a slew of spectacular beaches in the provinces of Baluchistan and Sindh. Come, have a look at the top three beaches in Pakistan.

Clifton Beach

Clifton beach, also known as Seaview, is the most popular beach in Pakistan. Situated near the Dolmen Mall Clifton in Karachi, it is a great place for recreation. With camel rides, monkey shows, and lots of restaurants, it is a family-friendly place for picnics and social gatherings. In 2003, the area was affected by an oil-spill which deteriorated the charm, yet it still remains a great spot for evening strollers, tourists and a social point for the locals.

French Beach

French Beach, situated between Paradise Point and Hawkes Bay is located near a small fishing village. The villagers have set up about 90 huts here that are available for rent. The beach is rockier than most of the other nearby beaches and the waters are cleaner than at the Clifton beach. The beach is perfect for various water-sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling and surfing. Most of these activities are carried out in the monsoon as the weather is favourable during July to September. As there aren’t many places to eat at, visitors should carry their food and drink.

Sandspit Beach

Situated in West Karachi, it is another famous tourist spot in the area. Unlike the Clifton Beach, the waters at at Sandspit are much calmer from fall to spring every year. October through March is the ideal time to visit the place. On your visit you will also be able to see various types of marine creatures such as crabs and marine algae on the beach. The calm and quiet surroundings of the beach make it an ideal place to unwind at. In fact, the beach is one of the best places for sunbathing.

Exploring the Cultural Heritage of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

srilankaLocated in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Anuradhapura is a wonderful tourist spot. The pleasant city is home to a number of archaeological and architectural wonders. Mammoth dagobas, ancient pools, soaring brick minarets and age-old temples depict the city’s rich history and culture. Although many of these structures are now in ruins, Anuradhapura is still considered one of South Asia’s most notable historical destinations and draws history buffs from all over the world. Here is a quick look at the top tourist attractions in this ancient Sri Lankan town.

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Dating back to the 1st century, Abhayagiri Dagoba is one of the greatest historical structures in Sri Lanka. The brick monument soars 75m above the forest floor, and looks stunning due to its gorgeous architecture and colossal size. The monument complex also has some interesting bas-reliefs, and a large slab with a Buddha footprint.

Bodhi Tree Temple

This sacred Buddhist temple is home to an over 2000-year old Bodhi tree. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is frequented by monks and worshippers in large numbers. April and December are particularly busy months. Make sure you leave your luggage at the hotel, as tourists are not allowed to carry anything inside the temple complex.

Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanwelisaya is just a short walk from Bodhi Tree Temple, and is one of the oldest and most voluminous stupas in the region. Visit the place to see different ancient images, sculptures and smaller stupas built in all four corners of the complex.

Archaeological Museum

Another must-visit site in Anuradhapura, this museum has a superb collection of historical artefacts, carvings and gems and religious objects that were found at various sites in the region. Many interesting sculptures, scattered across the museum’s grounds, are also worth checking out.

Some Fascinating Scuba-diving Sites in the Seychelles

Scores of divers flock to the Seychelles throughout the year. Fascinating diving sites, featuring a wonderful marine biodiversity, are scattered throughout this Indian Ocean nation. From the thick coral reef in the shallow waters along the Therese Island to the huge stingrays and reef sharks off the Shark Bank – the Seychelles promises many alluring sights and experiences for diving enthusiasts. This blog reveals some of the best spots to experience the underwater thrills of the Seychelles.

seychelles

The Fisherman’s Cove Reef

The calm and balmy waters off the Fisherman’s Cove Reef on Mahé Island harbour plenty of tropical fish, beautiful coral formations, giant Hawksbill turtles, and several other big pelagic species. It’s a popular diving site among both novice divers as well as pros. Excellent underwater visibility, ranging from 15 to 30 meters, makes the excursion a memorable affair.

L’ilot

If you want good diving sans the crowds, then L‘ilot Island is the place to be. The crystal clear waters with massive granite boulders, amazing marine life and spectacular coral reefs set the scene here. The island is also renowned for night dives. Coloured pelagic fish, Spanish dancers and gorgonians and shrimps are commonly spotted.

Shark Bank

This revered diving site is situated about 8kms northwest of Mahé and boasts a great marine biodiversity in the Seychelles. While diving at Shark Bay, you have the chance to see amazing coral formations, which are frequented by schools of barracuda and jack fish. Massive eagles, Stingray, reef shark, and whale sharks are some of the other popular aqua species that you may encounter here. The underwater visibility is excellent (up to 30 metres on a clear day). To reach Shark Bank, you need to take a ferry ride from Mahé Island.

Brissaire Rocks

Brissaire Rocks is famous for long distance diving and the waters are full of colourful aquatic life. You can see schools of barracuda, horse-eye jacks, sting rays and napoleons swarming over the reefs, which are dense, thick and colourful. The granite formations here are fantastic for spotting green turtles and sting rays. Depending on the season, visitors may see whale sharks as well.

Important Things Holidaymakers Need To Know before Visiting the Seychelles

seychellessSo you’ve finally decided to explore the astounding charms of the Seychelles. However, before you finalise your itinerary, it’s imperative to know certain things about the island nation for planning a perfect holiday. Here, we have presented a short travel guide for people planning to visit the Seychelles.

When to Go

seychellesBlessed with a year-round warm, tropical climate, the Seychelles can be visited any time of the year. The temperatures usually range from 24°C to 32°C, with no extreme winters or summers. The scenery is breathtaking all year-round, but if you plan to try scuba-diving or snorkelling in Seychelles, then the best time to visit would be the months of April to May and October to December. The water temperature during these seasons reaches up to 29°C, while the visibility remains above 30 meters.

How to Go

With a number of reputed airlines including Air Seychelles operating regular flights (indirect) between London Heathrow and Mahé (the main island of Seychelles), reaching this Indian Ocean destination is no hassle for Britons. Besides, British passport holders don’t need visas to visit the Seychelles. The passport must be valid for the proposed duration of the stay.

Things to Keep in Mind

  1. The local language is Seychellois Creole. However, English and French are also widely spoken.
  2. The Seychelles is one of the safest travel destinations. The people are warm and friendly. However, it’s good to stay vigilant and take care of one’s belongings, especially at crowded places. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  3. The local currency is Seychelles Rupees. One British Pound is equal to around 22 Seychelles Rupees.
  4.  Mahé is the national capital of the Seychelles and boasts most facilities typical of a big city, including an international airport, plenty of hotels, restaurants, bank ATMs, car rentals and more.

Popular options for getting around the island of Mahé include buses, cabs and taxis. To travel from one island to the other, tourists can take a ferry. Self drive cars are also available for hire. However, make sure that you are experienced in driving on the narrow and winding mountainous roads.

Liveaboard Trips and More from the Maldives

A liveaboard trip is a lovely way to spice up your holidays in the Maldives and many visitors are waking up to the charm of booking such trips around the archipelago. Simply put, liveaboard trips are mini cruises, which take guests on an island-hopping spree and offer a first rate diving experience. This way, one gets to enjoy almost all the facets of this delightful island nation.

Popular Liveaboard Trip Routes

Popular routes for liveaboard trips lie along the colourful atolls surrounding the capital city of Malé, with the Ari atoll being a pretty famous one. A couple of other popular trips are to the Rasdhoo Atoll and Baa Atoll. Travellers looking for long distance liveaboard trips may sign up for a voyage to the recently formed Huvadhoo atoll to the far South or the Haa-Alifu atoll to the far North of the island.

Best Time to Go….

maldivesThe best time to enjoy liveaboard trips in the Maldives is between November and April as the weather is quite pleasant. The prices are high during this period but one also gets to enjoy various other delightful activities.

Top Dive and Snorkel Spots

  • Kudarah Thila (South Ari Atoll) and 5 Rocks for watching incredible coral formations and unique species of fish
  • Cocoa Corner (South Malé Atoll) and Guraidhoo Kandu for exciting drifts and watching sharks and rays
  • Fotteyo (Felidhoo Atoll) and Dhiga Thila for colourful soft corals and near-vertical drop-off diving
  • Madhivaaru Rangali (Ari Atoll) and Lankan Caves (North Malé) for snorkelling

Other Sights and Sounds….

maldivessBesides a celebrated diving, surfing and snorkelling scene, the Maldives has many other charms. The capital city of Malé alone spoils one for choice with wonderful attractions such as Sultan’s Park, Grand Friday Mosque, Fish Market, National Museum and the Graveyard. The ones looking for more adventurous pursuits may try out canoeing and wakeboarding.

Liveaboard Trips and more from the Maldives

MaldivesA liveaboard trip is a lovely way to spice up your holidays in the Maldives and many visitors are waking up to the charm of booking such trips around the archipelago. Simply put, liveaboard trips are mini cruises, which take guests on an island-hopping spree and offer a first rate diving experience. This way, one gets to enjoy almost all the facets of this delightful island nation.

Popular Liveaboard Trip Routes

Popular routes for liveaboard trips lie along the colourful atolls surrounding the capital city of Malé, with the Ari atoll being a pretty famous one. A couple of other popular trips are to Rasdhoo Atoll and Baa Atoll. Travellers looking for long distance liveaboard trips may sign up for a voyage to the recently formed Huvadhoo atoll to the far South or the Haa-Alifu atoll to the far North of the island.

Best Time to Go….

The best time to enjoy liveaboard trips in the Maldives is between November and April as the weather is quite pleasant. The prices are high during this period but one also gets to indulge in various other delightful activities.

Top Dive and Snorkel Spots

•   Kudarah Thila (South Ari Atoll) and 5 Rocks for watching incredible coral formations and unique species of fish
•   Cocoa Corner (South Malé Atoll) and Guraidhoo Kandu for exciting drifts and watching sharks and rays
•   Fotteyo (Felidhoo Atoll) and Dhiga Thila for colourful soft corals and near-vertical drop-off diving
•   Madhivaaru Rangali (Ari Atoll) and Lankan Caves (North Malé) for snorkelling

Other Sights and Sounds….

Besides a legendary diving, surfing and snorkelling scene, the Maldives has many other charms. The capital city of Malé alone spoils one for choice with wonderful attractions such as Sultan’s Park, Grand Friday Mosque, Fish Market, National Museum and the Graveyard. The ones looking for more adventurous pursuits may try out canoeing and wakeboarding.