Author Archives: Catalina Forbes

Snorkeling in Salalah Oman – An Adventure in the Waters

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Offering a plethora of exciting things to and attractions to see, Salalah is one of Oman’s most sought-after destinations. Read on to know about an activity that is rapidly gaining popularity among the tourists who visit here.

Man Snorkeling While Looking at Ocean Turtle

 

Snorkelling in Salalah

Salalah is home to a beautiful coastline that is home to clear and calm waters. The sea surrounding the beach teems with marine life making it ideal for snorkelling.

What can you see

As mentioned before, the oceans near the coast teem with marine life and some of the amazing creatures that you get to see while snorkelling are, whale sharks, sea turtles, thousands of colourful corals, a variety of reef fish and sea turtles.

Image Credit: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

 

Where can you get snorkelling gear?

If you are planning your stay at resort properties, the likes of Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara the resort itself offers you with the necessary gear you need. You could also buy them at surf shops that are located near the beach.

Things to remember

When you plan to snorkel around these Oman attractions, you should always be aware of your surroundings. Never venture alone and do not swim towards the deeper regions, also try not to touch any marine creatures while you are in the water.

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Starwatching in Oman – Discover the Universe

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Gaze upon the sky and slip into a sense of tranquillity during your time in Oman! Witness millions of stars and appreciate that you are alive and breathing in a small planet out of the millions of galaxies that decorate the night skies.

Image Credit: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

 

Why Oman is ideal for stargazing

Oman is a nation that is mostly composed of dessert, most of its land is uninhabited apart from major cities. This significantly reduces light pollution and in most of the regions, one could observe the night sky very clearly.

Best places for stargazing

Remote locations and less populated regions in surrounding cities like Nizwa are the ideal places for this activity if you are wondering how you could find a remote location in Oman, you could opt to stay in a resort property the likes of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort which is located on top of a mountainous region away from the cities.

Stargazing facts

Being one of the popular things to do in Nizwa and around many other regions in Oman, this activity brings you a sense of peace to your mind. It is also proven to be therapeutic.

Things remember

During winter months at night, the temperature tends to reduce drastically so it is advised that wear appropriate clothing that will keep you warm. Also, if you are into photography it is better to bring your DSLR cameras for those spectacular long exposure shots.

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Phuket Island Safari – Explore Paradise!

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Beautiful Phuket is indeed a place that is rich with many delightful charms. If you are travelling here you really should take the time to enjoy a charming island safari.

Image by: Mariamichelle via pixabay| CC0

Cultural Sights

If you are interested in the culture and heritage of Thailand you really should visit some of the famous cultural attractions in Phuket. Places like Big Buddha, Wat Chalong and Phuket Old Town should not be missed. You can stay at centrally located hotels like Avadina Hills by Anantara to enjoy ease while travelling here.

Nigh Markets

Thailand is truly a shopaholic’s paradise! While the shopping scene in Phuket is not as colourful as that of Bangkok, there are plenty of great places that you can visit to enjoy a sensational shopping spree. The Naka Weekend Market is one of the most exciting events that take place weekly here.

Accommodation in Phuket

Be sure to look for centrally located accommodation so you will get to enjoy your tour to the fullest. You will be able to find all the information that you need about the best hotels and resorts here online. There is ample information about villas in Phuket for sale as well. If you are interested in real estate, you can surely consider researching more on the topic!

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

 

Signs your souls need an emotional healing retreat – when things aren’t quite right…

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When life seems unfair and you seem to be all lost, emotional healing retreats can come up with proper guidance and direction to life. It is not about getting healthy food, having your fitness exercises and even meditating seeking a balance in mind, but by communicating what bothers you in your life.

Image by: leninscape via pixabay| CC0

 

When you feel the need for a change

Sometimes in life, you feel there is something wrong, but you are not able to figure out what it is. It can be confusing and end up with so much negativity. Sometimes, you already know where it is wrong and what must be subjected to a change, but you are scared to take the first move. This is where you look for options like Kaya Sri Lanka which can bring you total relief!

When you feel dull and depressed

Childhood traumas, physical illnesses, and various other personal problems can make you feel depressed making you feel sad constantly with a noticeable lack of sleep and motivation. Statistics of many a Sri Lanka wellness resort report that depression very commonly results is suicidal thoughts, making the suicides in the country go up at a rate.

When fear gets in

It is quite general to feel fear to engage in a dangerous task in life but fearing life itself can be quite uncommon. This is where an emotional healing retreat is needed to explain to your own mind that things are going to be okay and that you are not alone.

When you feel anxious

No matter how hard life can get, you should always strike a balance. When things do not happen the way you wanted them to be, you get anxious. An emotional healing session will make you get rid of this anxiety through its exercises quite positively.

 

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Water Sports You Cannot Miss in the Maldives – Add in a Little Sense of Adventure to Your Vacation!

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Being a popular vacation destination, the Archipelago of Maldives is a utopia for holidaymakers and adventure junkees alike; this is because the islands offer a wide variety of water sport activities for you to partake and enjoy. Read on to know more about some of the must try’s

Jet Skiing

If you are looking for an activity that will give you the feel of adrenaline rushing through your veins, then probably this is something you should not miss! The jet ski’s engine is so powerful and accelerates at dizzying speeds almost instantly giving you a thrilling and memorable riding experience.

Image Credit: Naladhu Private Island Maldives

Scuba diving

Home to a variety of marine life and exquisite underwater scenery, Scuba diving is certainly an activity you should definitely try during your time in the Maldives. You can enjoy this at most of the Maldives luxury hotel properties the likes of Naladhu Private Island Maldives as they include scuba diving in the leisure activity list.

Sea Kayaking

Hop into a kayak along with your loved one and paddle your way through the pristine waters of the Maldives. Kayaking in the ocean is definitely an exciting thing to do and it can be enjoyed best during evening hours where you can also marvel at the evening scenery.

Image Credit: Naladhu Private Island Maldives

Snorkelling

The islands of Maldives are surrounded by shallow waters that are home to vibrant corals and a plethora of amazing reef dwelling creatures and snorkelling is a wonderful way to explore these stunning underwater worlds. Unlike scuba diving, snorkelling doesn’t require many skills and can be enjoyed with minimal gears, and that too will be offered by your resort.

Image Credit: Naladhu Private Island Maldives

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

A Day Spent Exploring the Phuket Town – A day with Culinary, Retail and Historical Surprises

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The best way to explore everything the city has to offer is by racking through the old streets lined with museums, buildings and a plethora of attractions that entertain the travellers.

Shopping

Pop in at one of the few shopping malls for high-end brands or go to the local market – especially on the weekend – if you are looking to strike the best bargain. At one of the boutique shops, you can shop for souvenirs and other local products.

File:Jungceylon Patong Thajsko 2018 2.jpg

Karelj, Jungceylon Patong Thajsko 2018 2, CC BY-SA 4.0

For the night owl…

Owing to the fact that the town isn’t exactly what you call a tourist destination, there are only a few bars, night clubs and beer bars. However, there are several night-shows you might find interesting.

Dining

Restaurants range from expensive to budget-friendly – so money won’t be an issue if you’ve set out your heart on sampling Thai food.

Image of resort

Image Credit: Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

Accommodation

You can find the most varied range of accommodation options here. There are luxury hotels in Phuket the likes of Anantara Layan Phuket Resort as well as cheap hotels if you are on a budget.

Image of resort

Image Credit: Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

All you need to know about Majestic Chao Phraya River – A fabled and enchanted river!

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Regarded as the lifeblood of Thailand, millions of people in the country directly or indirectly depend on the Chao Phraya River for their livelihood. Read on to know more about this amazing river.

Overview

The Chao Phraya River, also known as the Maenam, is the principal river in Thailand which flows through the fertile plains of central Thailand for an extent of 365 Kilometers finally meeting the ocean at the Gulf of Thailand.

File:Chao Phraya River1 Photo D Ramey Logan.jpg

Photograph by D Ramey Logan, Chao Phraya River1 Photo D Ramey Logan, CC BY-SA 3.0

Geography

The river originates at the confluence of Nan and Ping rivers in the province of Nakhon Sawan Province. Then it flows towards the south nourishing a plethora of cultivation lands and making tributaries and distributaries fertile.

River engineering

The river’s course has been altered several times as civilizations flourished in the banks of the river. Historical evidence state that most of the changes have been made during the period of Ayutthaya. Several canals have also been constructed to bypass the many large loops that were present in the river’s topography.

Settlements

Since the regions around the rivers were fertile and were rich in minerals, humans started cultivating crops at the banks of the river. People started to settle in these regions and civilizations started to flourish. The small settlements became villages, then the villages became towns and the towns eventually became great cities. The magnificent metropolis of Bangkok is one of such cities.

Seeing the river today

You can see the river up close by visiting Bangkok or any other cities that are located in its banks. But if you wish to see more of the river, the most ideal way is to get aboard a Chao Phraya river cruise in Bangkok. Among the many cruises, the Manohara Cruises is an option worth considering since you can witness the real beauty of the river while indulging in luxurious comforts.

Image result for Anantara Cruises Thailand

Image Credit: Manohara Cruises

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

All you need to know about Majestic Chao Phraya River – A fabled and enchanted river!

Posted on by

Regarded as the lifeblood of Thailand, millions of people in the country directly or indirectly depend on the Chao Phraya River for their livelihood. Read on to know more about this amazing river.

Overview

The Chao Phraya River, also known as the Maenam, is the principal river in Thailand which flows through the fertile plains of central Thailand for an extent of 365 Kilometers finally meeting the ocean at the Gulf of Thailand.

File:Chao Phraya River1 Photo D Ramey Logan.jpg

Photograph by D Ramey Logan, Chao Phraya River1 Photo D Ramey Logan, CC BY-SA 3.0

Geography

The river originates at the confluence of Nan and Ping rivers in the province of Nakhon Sawan Province. Then it flows towards the south nourishing a plethora of cultivation lands and making tributaries and distributaries fertile.

River engineering

The river’s course has been altered several times as civilizations flourished in the banks of the river. Historical evidence state that most of the changes have been made during the period of Ayutthaya. Several canals have also been constructed to bypass the many large loops that were present in the river’s topography.

Settlements

Since the regions around the rivers were fertile and were rich in minerals, humans started cultivating crops at the banks of the river. People started to settle in these regions and civilizations started to flourish. The small settlements became villages, then the villages became towns and the towns eventually became great cities. The magnificent metropolis of Bangkok is one of such cities.

Seeing the river today

You can see the river up close by visiting Bangkok or any other cities that are located in its banks. But if you wish to see more of the river, the most ideal way is to get aboard a Chao Phraya river cruise in Bangkok. Among the many cruises, the Anantara Cruises Bangkok Thailand is an option worth considering since you can witness the real beauty of the river while indulging in luxurious comforts.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Things to Do in Cyberjaya – Traverse fascinating landscapes

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Home to a science park, a tech hub that aspires to be Malaysia’s Silicon Valley, Cyberjaya has become a hotspot among tourists across the world. Here are some top things to do in this fascinating town.

Selangor's Green Mosque

Selangor’s Green Mosque | Image Credit : Soham Banerjee from Bangalore, india, Selangor mosque (514438716), CC BY 2.0

Pay a Visit to Selangor’s Green Mosque

Visit the Masjid Fisabilillah Cyberjaya which is the town’s main mosque. It also goes by the name of the Green Mosque of Selangor. Eco-tourists will be glad to learn that this mosque has been named thusly because it has many energy saving mechanisms in place. For example, the roofs are equipped with solar panels, all the lights are LED-based, the and there is also a system in place to collect and use rainwater.

Cycling

The Cyberjaya Lakeside is the best place to enjoy some cycling. Rent a bike and enjoy the thrills of whizzing around the city as the gorgeous sunshine warms you up. You may want to consider the option of booking hotel apartments Cyberjaya for a hassle-free stay. Providing easy access to the city centre and Kuala Lumpur is the Citadines D’Pulze Cyberjaya apartments.

Enjoy a Spot of Shopping

The area is now resplendent with plenty of shopping venues. In Cyberjaya you will find IOI City Mall which is dubbed as one of the biggest shopping centres in the Klang Valley. There is also the D’Pulze Shopping Centre that may not be too large but is home to a good range of shopping centres.

Thrills of Go-Kart Racing

Near the Cyberjaya Lake Gardens is the ‘Go Kart at Raycer Powerhouse’; ideal for all racing enthusiasts to enjoy some adrenaline pumping action. The sessions last around 45 minutes and promises to be quite thrilling.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

The New Year festival of Sri Lanka – A series of traditional customs

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The new year in Sri Lanka represents prosperity and the reaping of the harvest. The Asian koel has a strong association with this festivity as the mating season of this bird coincides with the season.

File:Lighthouse-Galle(js).jpg

Jerzy Strzelecki, Lighthouse-Galle(js), CC BY 3.0

History of the festival
The history of this festivity is one that’s heavily influenced by the Buddhist and Hindu religions of Sri Lanka. However, certain people believe this celebration existed even before the religions came into being, but this piece of information has been buried with years of history.

The Astrological concept
It’s believed that geographical reasons together with planetary movements decided the date to be April 14 as the date to celebrate. Based on the sun’s movement from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries, Sri Lanka welcomes the new year. Most of the mythological background of the Sinhala and Tamil new year has a touch of Hindu religion.

What happens during this time?
You’ll see all sorts of celebrations in every corner of the island, from several Galle hotels such as the Fortress Resort and Spa to other locations! People of all ages, the old and young take part in the celebrations. Paying respect to elders, exchanging gifts, applying oil and several other customs are followed on the day of new year. Everyone also engages in traditional games and activities during this time, along with enjoying tasty traditional new year food!