Sir Bani Yas Island Wildlife Experience – A Sanctuary for Amazing Creatures!

Posted on September 28, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

The Sir Bani Yas Island is a natural island located to the southwest of Abu Dhabi which is home to a wildlife reserve. Read on to know more about this reserve and things you get to see and do here.

Image Credit: Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara

The origin and overview

Being the largest natural island in the UAE, Sir Bani Yas spans over an area of 82 sqm. In the year of 1977 with a noble cause and a visionary view, a nature reserve was established on the island and hundreds of animals from Africa and Asia were introduced to the island.

The island today

Part of the island is home to a handful of resort properties the likes of Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara and part of it still remains unspoiled as a fully-fledged wildlife reserve, What can you see here You can see a variety of over 30 different mammals and a plethora of birds in the reserve. Some of the most iconic animals one could see here are the Arabian Oryx, Giraffes, Arabian Leopard and few rare species of antelopes.

Image Credit: Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara

How can you see these animals?

Being a popular destination for sightseeing in Abu Dhabi there are well-orchestrated safari tours to the Sir Bani Yas islands. If you are planning to stay at any of the island’s resorts you can directly book your safari tour from the comfort of your room itself.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Getting in Some ‘Vitamin Sea’ in Sri Lanka – Beach Hopping Escapades

Posted on August 28, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

If you love spending time at the beach, then Sri Lanka is the summer destination for you! Below are a few of the island’s best beaches to add to your itinerary.

Image by: 12019 via pixabay | CC0

Negombo Beach

Conveniently located close to the main international airport, Negombo is a popular getaway on the west coast of Sri Lanka. Beach holidays here are ideal for families and couples alike with snorkelling, kite surfing and beachside dining all on offer along with some truly magical sunsets.

Mirissa Beach

Golden sands and palm tree-lined shores create an idyllic backdrop at Mirissa Beach which is often included on itineraries of tour companies the likes of Steuart Holidays. While you can try some snorkelling and diving here, one of the area’s main draws is its easy access to the harbour where you can set off on whale and dolphin watching excursions.

Hikkaduwa Beach

Apart from lazing on the soft sands of Hikkaduwa Beach, travellers can also look forward to having lots of fun in the water; snorkel above coral reefs, surf the waves or take a ride on a boat with a transparent bottom so you can see an amazing world under the waves. As night falls, look to experience Hikkaduwa’s happening nightlife scene too!

Nilaveli Beach

Located in Trincomalee, this beach with its white sands bordered by azure waters is a place to experience coastal bliss. Once you’ve had your fill of soaking up the sun, take a short boat trip to nearby Pigeon Island and enjoy snorkelling at a marine national park.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Arabic Coffee – Learn Why it is Different

Posted on August 21, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

Known as qhwah arabiyya, Arabic coffee accounts for 60-70 % of the coffee industry in the world. It is brewed in different ways depending on the country. It is considered part of the culture and heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.

A dallah a traditional Arabic coffee pot with cups and coffee beans.jpg

Canbel, A dallah a traditional Arabic coffee pot with cups and coffee beans, CC BY-SA 4.0

Traditions

In the Arabian Peninsula and Saudi Arabia, coffee is called Gahwa Arabi. It is considered a welcome drink and is served to guests, a symbol of generosity and hospitality. Islamic traditions call for guests to be treated with glory and a cup of coffee no matter the time is one way to welcome them into your fold.

Cups are filled only partway, and it is traditional to drink three cups. Coffee is part of Islamic festivals like Ramadan and Eid. It is drunk bitter and unsweetened at funerals and the residue in a cup is used to tell fortunes.

Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., Al Kabir Culinaria Libanesa 2019 02, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Word Coffee

The word coffee comes from the Arabic word “qahwah” which means strength. This word evolved into kahveh in Turkish that evolved again to koffie in Dutch; coffee as it is known today.

How to Make Coffee like the Arabs

The perfect cup of Arabic coffee can be found in any one of the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Making it is very easy; all you need is arabica beans and boiling water. Once you’ve got your liquid coffee add a pinch of saffron, cardamom, ginger and cloves according to your taste. Simmer the entire thing for a few minutes and you’ve got a perfect cup.

Pixabay user 1507844, Coffee Arabic Cafe Delicious Dessert Food Morning, CC0 1.0

Coffeehouse Culture

Coffeehouses were started in the Arab world and spread along with the incorporation of coffee into other cultures. Today you can experience the same socialisation over coffee, games and shisha as the olden day Arabs, evenings at the Al Shams restaurant in Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villas.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Land Sailing in UAE – A Fascinating Sport!

Posted on August 20, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

When wondering about the UAE and all it offers, there’s plenty of exciting activities. Land Sailing is a whole new level of fun that’s waiting to be explored. Want to know more about land sailing in the UAE?

Image Credit: Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort

1) What is it

A sport, a thrilling activity and an engaging past time all rolled in one. Land sailing uses a vehicle called a sail yacht or sail wagon which is a three-wheeled cart that has a sail attached to it. Racing across the land in this vehicle is what is known as land sailing.

2) How expensive is it

Pricing is relative as you’ll find that it varies from around 1,200 Dhs to around 30,000 Dhs depending on build quality. You can easily take part in tours that rent them for about 280 Dhs for an hour worth of fun.

3) Where to stay to try it

While sightseeing in Abu Dhabi can be amazing, there’s nothing like this adventurous sport. You’ll find many great places to stay that offer this activity, such as the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort for example.

4) How fast does it go?

The world record is set at 203kmph; however, average speeds are around 90kmph.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Snake Canyon of Oman – Slide into some fun!

Posted on July 9, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

Oman is home to a rather interesting valley known as Snake Gorge or Snake Canyon which is full of quirky bends, nooks and crannies. The main reason travellers visit this place is due to its abundance of rock pools, swim holes, cliffs, jumping points and water slides, all carved by nature! Interested in learning more about the Snake Canyon of Oman?

Ji-Elle, Snake Canyon (3), CC BY-SA 3.0

1). Some Facts About the Snake Gorge

It’s called the Snake Gorge because of the shapes the mountains have created. The gorge is also more than 100 metres high easily in certain places. You will most definitely need an all-terrain four-wheel-drive SUV to get up there.

2). Why You Will Love It

This is truly a bucket-list location to visit as it’ll be with you forever. A work of art by nature, this place boasts immense beauty and fun! If you’re looking for Oman luxury resorts while you explore, there are several including Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort for example.

Image Credit: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

3). An Adrenaline Rush

Looking for the ultimate thrill? Experience climbing, diving and canyoning, all in the same place! Natural waterslides are galore as well. A geographically diverse site, the colours of the rocks and its suddenly fluctuating rock formations make for an interesting trip.

4). The Terrain

There’s beautiful rock pools with crystal clear water to swim in. Slide down a wet cliff and jump off into a pool!

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Crystal Clear Waters of Ayn Khor Waterfall – Nature at its most serene!

Posted on July 9, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

The southern region of Dhofar in Oman is geographically diverse, and the climate here varies throughout the year, resulting in a beautiful topography that blossoms into life. During the prime season, Ayn Khor, a stunning waterfall, comes into life and attracts thousands of visitors. Want to learn more about the crystal-clear waters of Ayn Khor waterfall?

1). The Seasons of Ayn Khor

The Khareef season starts in June and goes on until September and this is certainly the season to visit Ayn Khor. Consistent rain transforms this region into one of greenery and waterfalls appear out of nowhere as if by magic!

2). Facts About Ayn Khor

The waterfall begins from the top of Wadi Jardum, several kilometres away from the second biggest city in Oman, Salalah. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended when visiting the location! If you’re looking for Salalah hotels while you explore, there are many to pick from like Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara for instance.

3). The Beauty of Ayn Khor

When heavy rainfall occurs at the source of the waterfall, expect to hear the sound of Ayn Khor from over kilometres away! Crystal clear water is collected in beautiful rocky pools that seductively invites visitors.

4). Warnings at Ayn Khor

Several people have had accidents here, so swimming is not encouraged! Please be wary of kids who may venture in.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto – A must-visit location!

Posted on June 14, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

Japan is truly a land of wonders with a sense of mystery and remnants of its ancient past full of colourful stories. The city of Kyoto is one of those places that lives in the past even in the present, this makes it one of the most unique locations that will help, you dive into raw Japanese culture. Here are a few things to know about the Fushimi-Inari Shrine which is one of the most iconic attractions of the city.

Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine | Image Credit : Carbonium, Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine – 伏見稲荷大社 – panoramio (2), CC BY 3.0

The Hike

If you are one of those travellers who’d like a short, but relaxed walk around Kyoto, the best option for you is the Fushimi-Inari hike. The hike begins at Fushimi-Inari Station on the Keihan Line or Inari Station on the JR Nara Line and ends at the same point. There might be some step-climbing to do but take it slow and easy and you’ll be just fine.

Best time to visit

The Fushi-Inari Taisha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto and therefore crowds are to be expected. Mostly, mainland Chinese tourists flock the place in large groups. So, leave early on a weekend beat the crowds!

The Torii

The Torii are known as shrine gates. On the left side of each saffron coloured Torii is the name of the company that donated it while the date is mentioned on the right side. On the other side is a kanji character pronounce hounou which means offered/donated.

The story

The shrine is dedicated to the god of harvest, business and commerce. The deity, Inari, as mentioned in folklore has a messenger that appears in the form of a fox. A statue of the messenger holding a rice storehouse key is also on display. This attraction is a mere 15 drive away from Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto and many other hotels in Kyoto.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

An Insight into the Food in Maldives – Discover a World of Culinary Delights!

Posted on May 20, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

The food culture in Maldives s nothing short of amazing! the food in this island paradise is decadent, vibrant and full of exotic flavorful. Read on to know about some of the important ingredients and staple food items of Maldivian Cuisine.

Coconut

Almost all the islands of the Maldives are fringed with coconut trees hence it is being used in the Maldivian cuisine as a staple ingredient. Most of the Maldivian food items feature the use of coconut in some way. Maldivian curries, sambols and even desserts are made using coconuts.

Seafood

Surrounded by an Ocean that teems with marine life the Maldives has an abundant supply of seafood. The seafood in the Maldives is fresh and they are predominantly used in the cuisine. You can savour freshly caught seafood during your stay at a resort the likes of Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas or at any restaurant in the Maldives.

Starches

Starches are a staple in the Maldivian Cuisine, and the typical Maldivian meal is incomplete without anything starchy. Tubers such as sweet potato, cassava, and fruits such as breadfruit, screwpine and rice are some of the starchy food items that are eaten along with curries or other condiments.

Satdeep Gill, Maldivian dish – Kandu Kulkulhu 12, CC BY-SA 4.0

Curries

The Maldivian cuisine is very much influenced by Indian and Sri Lankan food culture since those are two of the countries that are located at close proximity to the Maldives. A wide assortment of spices and tropical ingredients are added to the curries to accentuate the flavours. Among the curries, the Maldives fish curry is a dish that must not be missed.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

A Little Known but Special National Park – Discovering the Wonders of Bundala

Posted on April 4, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

While names like Yala, Minneriya and Wilpattu are popular when it comes to national parks in Sri Lanka, you would be wise to also make time to explore another wildlife sanctuary in Bundala. Not convinced? Read on for more!

Getting There

The Bundala National Park can be found 10 km from the city of Hambantota and is easy to reach from Sri Lanka luxury resorts or budget hotels in the island’s deep south. Also close by is the town of Tissamaharama which is 18 km away.

Migratory Birds

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Bundala has recorded around 200 bird species of which migratory birds are amongst the highlights, especially the large flocks of greater flamingos that arrive here. Those visiting the park on excursions organised by the likes of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort can expect to see plovers, ducks, stints and terns as well.

anonymous, Flam.greater.600pix, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

Other Birds

Bird lovers can also look forward to seeing a range of other aquatic birds including pelicans, egrets, storks and teals. The Sri Lankan junglefowl and the Brown-capped Babbler are amongst the endemic species one can spot here.

Thimindu Goonatillake from Colombo, Sri Lanka, Haliaeetus leucogaster -Bundala National Park, Sri Lanka -flying-8, CC BY-SA 2.0

Wildlife Abounds

The Bundala National Park is not all about birds and it is one of the best places in the country to see mugger and estuarine crocodiles. Apart from a small number of elephants, the park is home to toque macaques, spotted deer, porcupines, wild buffaloes and four turtle species too.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+

Best Things to Do in Phan Thiet, Mui Ne – Destinations for a Memorable Vacation!

Posted on April 4, 2019 by Fritzjames Stephen

Phan Thiet and Mui Ne are two of the most sought over destinations in Vietnam both the cities are located close proximity to one another and offer a variety of things to do and places to see for its visitors. Read on to know about four of them.

Red Sand Dunes

Though sand dunes at this location may seem highly unnatural this is one of the most unique geological formations in the region. The dunes are certainly an Instagram worthy destination and it also offers a variety of exciting things to do for its Visitors. Sand sledging, ATV rides dune bashing on buggies are few of these activities.

ruben i, Mui Ne sand dunes 1, CC BY 2.0

Mui Ne beach

The beach is certainly a beautiful destination that you should consider visiting during your time here. Accommodation options the likes of Anantara Mui Ne Resort are also located close to the beach. Kite surfing is quite popular in this region and you could enjoy this sport at the Resort Mui Ne which you have planned your stay.

Remi Duvergey (Remi.duvergey at en.wikipedia), Mui Ne beach, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons

Phan Thiet Cental Market

This is a must-visit destination for the folks who wish to witness the daily lives of the locals. The market is home to a number of stalls that specializes in selling local produce, amazing food, souvenirs and much more.

zabaluev, Phan Thiet, Market – panoramio – zabaluev, CC BY 3.0

Fairy Stream

This being another photography hotspot in the region, features a dramatic landscape which is composed of cliffs and rocks that are hued in oranges pinks reds and whites. There are also a number of food stalls located on the way to this amazing site.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+