Rufus Elliott explores a slice of Jurrasic Park in the South East of Indonesia.

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Written by Rufus Elliott

Last summer I decided to fulfill a dream of travelling to Indonesia. The motivation was simple; Komodo Dragons. At one of the far reaches of the earth sits the islands of Komodo and Rinca, the two last places on earth that these prehistoric creatures can be found in the wild. The islands are sandwiched between Flores and Sumbawa in the South East of Indonesia.

After days of travel we arrived at the island of Flores, the launch pad for everything in Komodo National Park. We rented a room and hired a boat for the following day. Our destination; Rinca!

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Kimberly Juchnowski recommends four alternatives to water that will beat the heat and leave you thirsty for more. For your visit in Thailand, consider Phuket holiday deals.

Written by Kimberly Juchnowski

One of my favorite things about living in Thailand is (you guessed it) Thai food. Known as one of the most distinct, delicious foods in the world, every single meal in Thailand is a culinary delight. I’ve written before about some of the more bizarre dishes I’ve tried out here, and they were strange plates indeed, but what really comes in handy in this climate is something cool and refreshing to drink.

When you come here, you’ll no doubt suck water down like it’s going out of style (as you should), and fruit shakes are every new traveler’s favorite treat — here, you can buy a fruit shake made from just about anything…from pineapple to mango to avocado.

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Jetting off on a luxury golfing holiday for most people traditionally tends to involve heading to places like France, Spain, Portugal and Turkey. The lure of short flight times, good weather and decent courses proves too strong for some.

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Tribute to the sun at the Marine Drive.

Androon Shehr skyline from the Lahore Fort (courtesy of Flickr user manalahmadkhan)

Suzie Saw encounters wildlife at a monkey sanctuary and a turtle conservation in Borneo.

Written by Suzie Saw

Borneo’s been in the news a lot in recent years – at least if you read articles that cover the line where industry meets ecology. Eco-tourism is increasingly seen as key to protecting endangered species, indigenous tribes and dwindling areas of jungle that might otherwise be chopped down to make room for crops or mass-tourism resorts. Wildlife holidays in Borneo, home to some of Earth’s oldest rainforest and most diverse marine habitats, not to mention those famous orangutans, are widely held up as the ultimate in eco-travel.

But any wildlife-enthusiast worth their salt knows that the “eco” tag is far too trendy to be completely reliable. It’s easy to colour your logo green and talk about how you’re “committed” to the idea of recycling, but that doesn’t mean you’re actually recycling anything yet. Tourism is just as notorious for damaging habitats as it is for protecting them. So is eco-tourism in Borneo really working, or is it just another trend?

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View over Georgetown from Kek Lok Si by Flickr user suanie.

One of the most popular destinations in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, the island paradise of Penang attracts travelers from around the globe. With cheap international flights always available to most Asian nations it would be a shame not to take advantage of what Malaysia and Penang, in particular, has to offer.

Here are the top five, in my opinion, Penang attractions and tours.

Kek Lok Si

As the largest Buddhist temple in this part of Asia, Kek Lok Si is one attraction to see on your Penang travels. The temple is a combination of Burmese, Chinese and Thai architecture. Easily recognized by its towering pagoda, the temple continues to amaze travelers.

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Written by Jacob Mojiwat

There is beauty underwater all over the world. But there’s only one place that Jacques Cousteau once called an “Untouched Piece of Art.” This place is the island of Sipadan, which has some of the most beautiful, rich and diverse coral and marine life in the world. But it is not heard of by many. However, as many diving experts will tell you, among the diving community, Sipadan is known by everyone. It is so well known and admired among those that explore the ocean’s depths, it is one of the top diving destinations in the world. What might attract you to explore this island are the incredible and unusual marine life sightings. And when you’re not diving below the water, you can enjoy spying one of the most diverse and wondrous bird populations of the world.

Flickr credit by Dave Bluck

Sipadan, an island off the coast of Malaysia in the Sulu Sea, offers divers crystal blue water and visibility depths of between 50 to over 130 feet (15 to over 40 meters). There are thousands of species of fish swimming amongst both hard and soft pristine coral. As the operator of a diving company, it is a joy for me to bring divers down to experience the explosion of color and marine wonderment such as enjoying the abundance of turtles that swim and lounge around the island. There are four species of turtles on the island: the leatherback, the olive ridley, Hawksbill and the Green turtle. The Green turtle can grow to be four feet long and is considered to be a lucky find if sighted on the island.The olive ridley turtle was named for the olive color of its heart-shaped shell and is interesting among the turtles because it is the smallest, only about two feet long and 80 to 110 pounds (35 to 50 kg). All of the turtle species on the island are endangered, yet they appear to be so plentiful in Sipadan. Diving companies will guarantee that you will see a turtle during each dive. Except for the Green turtle, the other turtles seem to always be around. And they are often curious and friendly with divers.

Beneath the crystalline waters, a wide, colorful palette of species swim around the island that is only 0.5 km long, 200 meters wide and can be walked in about 25 minutes. During a diving excursion you might encounter hammerheads, reef sharks, sting rays, the elusive whale shark, trevalys, giant bumphead parrotfish, as well as the plentiful and pretty nudibranchs. Dependable favorites await in schools, such as thousands of trevallies and barracuda. It is a celebratory moment when the rare napoleon wrasse, grouper, or puffer fish are seen because it is testimony to the wishful thinking that not all have been eaten or fished out of the seas. An explosion of color follows schools of tiny fish like the anthias, damselfish, cardinalfish and blennies. A curious and slow-moving diver might spot the many crustaceans, eels, and stonefish that are more on the shy side.

The “Drop Off” dive site by dachalan

Setting a complimentary backdrop to the island’s fish, are the glorious coral, such as the large Gorgonion fans, sea whips and feather stars. Not only are the coral structures fascinating, but the marine caves are equally intriguing. The island is known to have the largest variety of soft coral in the world. Along with this comes beautiful coral fishes. But be careful, sometimes a shark might swim by. Or a barracuda! The much friendlier turtles abound in a place called Turtle Cavern. In order to get to the cavern a diver must go to one of the best beach dive sites in the world, appropriately named “Drop Off.” A mere 20 feet (5 meters) from shore, a wall plunges a dazzling 2,800 ft (850 meters). The wall is encrusted with a wide variety of coral. Living on this wall are plenty of lionfish andsmaller reef fish. The entrance to Turtle Cavern is 70 ft (21 meters) down along the wall. Turtles swim in and out of the cavern and along the wall. The cavern can be difficult to navigate and there is now a rule that all divers must be accompanied by a resort operator in order to explore the cave, assome divers have not made it out. A deep penetration into the cave will reveal a species of fish specifically adapted to low light depths of the ocean.

Soft coral by danielguip

As a diver you need to be aware of your surroundings and not handle the coral. Reckless divers and snorkelers have caused some coral damage. Also, surrounding boats and large diving groups have stirred up silt and sediment. This can actually choke and suffocate coral polyps. The Sipadan reef was also hurt by a powerful tropical storm named Greg which destroyed some shallower parts of the reef. This part of the reef has not recovered, especially with the addition of increased water temperatures from global warming. In 2006 the reef took an even heavier blow when a barge completely wiped out delicate corals between the pier and a popular island dive site called Barracuda Point. These incidents provide a good reminder on how fragile the corals and sealife can be.

As if there isn’t enough beauty below the waves, Sipadan is also known as a wondrous place for bird watching and was even designated a bird sanctuary. Bird watchers can observe 47 different species of birds, including a plentitude of frigates, sea eagles, terns, and kingfishers that glide across the small island. Sipadan also serves as an integral stopover point for migratory birds like the greater sand plover, common sandpiper, wood sandpiper, as well as the Nicobar pigeon which flies from China during the colder times of year. An interesting bird on the island that makes use of its kill in a practical way is the kingfisher which nests in holes. These holes, however, are lined with fish bones which the bird uses after it has eaten. Kingfishers are unique, exotic looking birds that are brightly colored and feature short legs and tails, big heads, and long, powerful beaks. Their diets consist of small vertebrates, insects, and fish. The sound of their cry has been compared to a cackle. Although the island is no longer open to visitors for animal exploration, serious bird watchers might want to take a short boat trip from a nearby island and observe from the designated areas near the Sipadan’s jetty.

Sipadan Water Village by findiver

The Malaysian government is working hard to protect the wildlife and marine life of Sipadan. In the past there had been five resorts along the north side of the island. But in 2002 the government closed the hotels and diving sites to protect the environment. Sipadan was nearly destroyed in the 1990s partly because the diving industry converged too heavily on the tiny island. Visitors cannot stay in Sipadan. So, if you plan to visit, you must stay in nearby Mabul or Semporna and take a minutes-long boat ride to Sipadan. Sipadan sits amongst a group of islands that all provide access. An hours long boat ride can also be taken from Mataking and Pompong. The island is also referred to as Pulau Sipadan. According to locals, the island is pronounced Siparan. Many years ago, it is said, a person named Siparan from Sempurna Island collected green turtle eggs. People began calling the island Siparan after this man. The name has stuck with locals to this day, but the official government name is Sipadan.

If you plan on visiting Sipadan for some diving or bird watching, get ready to be amazed by the pristine marine environment. It takes planning and dedication to make it to Sipadan, but what it has to offer puts it on many a “best-of” list which should then put it on many a “must-do” list. Sipadan might grow in fame throughout the years as it becomes more discovered, but it’s good to know the beautiful coral, fish and birds will always be well protected and ready to enjoy.

Jacob Mojiwat is passionate about sharing the wonders of scuba diving with others. He is the owner of AsiaDivingVacation.com. His dive company takes divers diving in Sipadan as well to other beautiful Asian dive destinations.

Exclusive hotel collection Chic Retreats offers a brief overview to the Maldives.

The Maldives © Luca Biagiotti

Written By Chic Retreats

The Maldives is a haven for snorkellers and scuba divers, with its abundance of coral and sea life. Its beaches and hotels don’t disappoint either.

Where Is It?

The Maldives is a group of over 1000 coral islands, set in the Indian Ocean, off the south west coast of India. The tiny islands are dotted in a string heading south and they provide a peaceful, if expensive getaway for the traveller in search of quiet relaxation.

Where Can I Stay?

It’s hard to beat the perfect combination of wide, white sandy beaches, perfect blue seas and tropical sun, and most hotels in the Maldives make the most of their surroundings by offering guests access to the beach direct from their rooms, or creating romantic areas for dinner and drinking. Boutique hotels go a step further than this by creating a cool, contemporary feel that makes guests feel right at home, whilst anticipating their every need, so that a simple holiday really does become a paradise for its duration. On the Ari Atoll lies the most exclusive hotel in the island group, the Dhoni Mighili. This stunning hotel sleeps just twelve people and guests arrive either by luxury speedboat, private plane or romantic Dhoni. A butler sees to your every need. Eat, drink and sleep to your own schedule and make the most of every minute. Or, if the North Male Atoll is more to your taste, the Hufaven Fushi is a decadent boutique hotel just 25 minutes by speedboat from the Male’ International Airport. Relax by your private pool, because there’s only your villa and one other on the whole complex. If you want a candlelit dinner on the beach, just say so. Truly indulgent, but worth every penny.

What Can I See?

The islands that make up the Maldives are all small and you can island hop between some of them. Many people come for the diving and snorkelling, but it may be worthwhile taking a trip to Male, the capital city, where markets, mosques and small shops may bring you back to reality. Otherwise, just take in the beauty of the coastlines and the ocean from your boutique retreat and soak up the sun.

How Do I Get Around?

Only some of the islands fall within the heavily regulated tourist zone, which the Government has imposed to prevent destruction of natural landscapes and villages. If you want to move between permitted islands, then you can fly or use a dhoni or speedboat. Most islands, however, are small enough to walk or bike round easily.

The Maldives might be exclusive, but if you have the time and you’re prepared to indulge yourself, then there’s nowhere better to go.

Chic Retreats is a collection of small, sophisticated hotels around the world that offer the traveller a true taste of luxury and service. Visit their website now by clicking on Boutique Hotels.

Article Source: travelarticlelibrary.com

Kimberly Juchnowski reports from Chiang Mai’s magical lantern festival, a much loved tradition among locals as well as visitors.

Written by Kimberly Juchnowski

Chiang Mai is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in Thailand. There’s just something about it that makes you never want to leave. Possibly the best time to visit the city is during the magical celebration Loy Krathong, also know as the lantern festival. It takes place from November 1st to November 3rd but you can see lanterns floating in the skies all over Thailand even a couple weeks before it starts. I was in Pai towards the end of October and saw at least a few dozen lanterns floating up into the night’s sky.

Even though it’s one of the most recognized holidays in Thailand it’s a little hard to understand what it’s really about or who it honors. There are a few different theories on the origin but the one thing everyone seems to agree on is that it is about washing away your bad luck and misfortunes. Every year tens of thousands of candles are sent down the rivers in floats and even more lanterns are released into the sky. There is a strong belief that lives are ruled by the power of good and bad luck in Thai culture. When the Thais send these candles down the rivers and lanterns into the sky they believe it will bring them good luck in the new year. Any bad luck from the past year is washed away with the beautiful drifting lights.

The lanterns are made out of paper with a wire that circles around the base. In the center is a good size, donut shaped candle. You unfold the lantern, then hold a lighter to the candle in the middle until it lights, which can take a pretty long time. Once it is lit, you hold the top of the lantern letting it fill up with the hot air from the candle. Once the lantern is good and full you will feel it start to rise and then you release it into the air and hope it flies. I say “hope” because you never know how the wind will shift things. I’ve seen lantern get stuck in power lines, stuck to the side of buildings, and even collide with other lanterns and come down on people. Sometimes the wax drips down from the candle just after its taken off and can sting a bit when it lands on you, nothing too crazy to worry about though. It’s actually pretty funny to see how lax people are about the safety when having 5000 people launching these very flammable objects into the air.

It does get a little hairy though when the fireworks get involved. The Thai people love their fireworks and during Loy Krathong a lot of people seem to think it’s a good idea to attach the fireworks to the lanterns and send them firing off into the sky. Fun to watch. As long as you aren’t anywhere near them. A lot of people actually get injured during the festival due to the lack of concern for safety. You’ll even see locals throwing firecrackers at the feet of the tourists. Of course it’s all in jest and they do not mean any harm, but it is still pretty startling and can make some people feel pretty unwelcome. If you happen to be in Thailand in November try to make your way to Chiang Mai during the festival. It is without a doubt the best place to experience Loy Krathong. The city comes to life with parades, partiers, and families all flooding the streets to participate in a few magical days.

Kimberly Juchnowski first fell in love with travel three years ago when she went on a seven month tour across five countries. She blogs regularly about Thailand packages and is always looking to find the best Thailand travel deals and share them through her site tikikiki.com.

For Amy Covington, a stay at the luxury jungle resort of the Oberoi Vanyavilas in South-Eastern Rajasthan proved to be pure pleasure.

Written by Amy Covington

You’ve seen the Expedia.com commercials with the couple in the beachside bungalow with mosquito nets… and the thought of going on vacation to stay in a tent gives you the creepy crawlies already. Not to worry, you won’t need a sleeping bag and a bottle of Off! for this exotic vacation. When was the last time you stayed in an air-conditioned, 790 square-foot tent with wooden floors, embroidered interior canopies, private gardens, outside deck for sunbathing, king size four-poster bed, freestanding rolltop bath and separate shower? And just to make sure you don’t feel like you’re “roughing it,” your tent comes with a DVD player and minibar.

It’s seems contradictory that the words “luxury” be used to describe a tent but at the Oberoi Vanyavilas, located between the Aravali and the Vindhya mountain ranges in South-Eastern Rajasthan, India, the concept is far from novel. Nestled among 20 acres of landscaped gardens, lemon and mango trees, and lakes and fountains, are 25 tents, bordering on one of the most extraordinary wildlife reserves in the world, Ranthambore National Park and Tiger Reserve, which is home to the majestic Indian tiger, as well as deer, leopard, and crocodile.

Now, before you think that this is an isolated retreat, consider the fine dining options and extensive spa services available. In the Dining Room and Inner Courtyard, Executive Chef Saurav Banerjee and Indian Master Chef Arjun Singh Yadava present an impressive spread of Western, Thai and Indian cuisine from a revolving menu. The exquisitely decorated restaurant features hand painted frescoes of flowers and animals by the celebrated miniaturist Mohan Singh Kumawat. Outside is the walled terrace of the Inner Courtyard which is lit at night by a massive log fire (camp fire songs optional).

As with any quality resort, there is a spa, where you’ll find steam rooms, showers and private therapy suites and a long menu of spa treatments, massages, facials, manicures and pedicures. Try the stimulating Indian Spice Wrap and a delicious Orange Wrap. All the massage and aromatherapy treatments are aimed at relieving stress and promoting a deep sense of relaxation and wellbeing. And for fitness buffs who can’t miss a workout, there is an exercycle, rowing machine, steppers and a treadmill, as well as an outdoor heated pool.

Amy’s passion is writing about the good things in life: food, wine, fashion, and travel. Her writing credits include Downtown San Francisco Magazine, Dining Out San Diego Magazine, among many others, as well as numerous consumer and luxury websites such as www.justluxe.com and www.luxeescapes.com Her guest post was originally published at the travelarticlelibrary.com