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Weekend Getaway in Auckland

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on


The city of Auckland is a city that offers a vast wealth of attractions to visit that have increasingly made it a popular tourist destination. With museums, zoos, amusements parks, dining options and more, it’s hard to go wrong when holidaying in Auckland.

For travellers only having the weekend sampling all that the city offers will prove somewhat difficult or impossible. Still, there is plenty that can be visited in the limited span of two days ensuring a rewarding visit.

The Auckland Botanic Gardens is a destination that is ideal for relaxation. Visitors to this destination can indulge in a relaxing stroll amidst a serene locale. Plants in the gardens originate from all around the world creating a strong amount of variety while there is also a visitor’s centre that showcases art pieces relating to botany in addition to a café that offers wide spanning views over the entire area.

The Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tamaki is the largest art institution in all of New Zealand and is well worth a visit when travelling to the city. Visitors will find housed inside, a staggering collection of over 12,000 works that collectively forms a robust artistic portfolio. In addition to the permanent collection, various exhibitions with temporary art from other institutions and contributors are also regularly held here.

For those wanting a slightly faster paced attraction, the Auckland Bridge climb presents a formidable choice. With the help of a tour guide, visitors will embark on a venture that will take them under, around and over the city’s famous bridge. The tour guide will provide insightful information while visitors will also be privy to fabulous views of the city’s skyline. A special bungee spot is also to be found here providing the ultimate thrill.

The Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari takes travellers to the Hauraki Gulf which is one of the leading spots in the world for marine mammals, which includes over 22 species of whales and dolphins. Going on board such a cruise will provide ample opportunity to catch glimpses of these majestic marine mammals.

During a weekend trip, travellers will have to find a suitable hotel in Auckland city for their stay. Copthorne Hotel Auckland City offers a hotel Auckland surrounded by the ever popular Marlborough Sounds.

Categories Travel

Chelsea Flower Show

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on


One of the great metropolises of the world, London is a dichotomy of royalist traditionalism and high society meeting modern cosmopolitan commerce. Of the calendar of the city’s social events that annually draw crowds from all over the globe; none blends the aforementioned aspects together as seamlessly as the Chelsea Flower Show.

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, or the Great Spring Show as it is officially called, is the red-letter event of the world’s leading horticultural organization, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). This gargantuan enterprise is one of the highlights of London’s social season, being the gardening equivalent of the Milan catwalk shows. It is an event which usually spans five days, the first two permitting attendance only to the members of the RHS and the royal family whose patronage the RHS enjoys. Having been held in an annual tradition spanning 200 years, the exhibition has long been hosted within the 11 acre grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London.

The cream of the world’s garden designers, landscape artists and nurseries come together to compete for the medals awarded to the best creations and “show gardens” (small delightfully imaginative inspirational gardens), introduce new varieties of flora and revive the appeal of older varieties. The centerpiece of the show is the Grand Pavilion, which is a vibrant floral marquee showcasing the best in horticultural achievement of the most elite names in the world of gardening.

Despite being televised by the BBC and receiving a lot of press, only around 150,000 visitors can be admitted to the show each year due to the limitations of ground capacity and tickets are sold out well in advance. Children under the age of 5 are not admitted. It can take a full day of walking to explore the numerous gardens, so visitors are advised to plan their day ahead of time using the show catalogues which are issued with the tickets, wear comfortable shoes and bring umbrellas in case of rain. Those unlucky enough to miss out can buy the official DVD of the event which is issued by the RHS.
For visitors staying at a luxury serviced apartment in London, especially in the exclusive district of Mayfair, this is the must-not-miss social event of the season. Ascott London Mayfair is highly recommended for seekers of luxury London serviced apartments who wish for prime access to this and many more of the city’s high society events.
Categories Travel

Christchurch Gondola

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on


Take in breathtaking sights whilst flying across a scenic and diverse landscape on a Christchurch gondola. Once visitors have taken the full journey on the gondola they will discover why it has become one of the most popular tourist activities in the city.

Upon stepping on to the gondola, visitors will soon be whisked away on a journey taking them up to 500ft above sea level which provides a sprawling 360 degree view of your surroundings. This is made possible by the fact that the gondola car is built with glass right around allowing its passengers to take in the scenery unhindered.

The entire journey takes a total of 6 minutes, but within this time the variety of sights that visitors will take in is quite diverse. The journey on the gondola allows passengers to take in Pegasus Bay, the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura, Banks Peninsula, Lake Ellesmere, Lyttleton Harbour, Canterbury Plains and lastly the Southern Alps.

Your experience does not simply end once your gondola reaches the rim of the extinct volcano known as Mt. Cavendish. High up on the mountain, visitors can indulge in a meal at both The Summit Café and The Pinnacle Restaurant (which also provides stunning views) whilst savouring the fresh mountain air. When done, visitors can head to ‘The Shop at the Top’ which offers a range of souvenirs, novelties and gifts including numerous locally handcrafted works which can serve as the perfect memento of your trip.

The final attraction here is the Heritage Time Tunnel which allows visitors to step back in time and discover the history of the surrounding area including information about the volcano, the Maori people and English settlers.

When exploring the many wonders of the region, travellers will need to find a suitable hotel in Christchurch for their stay. Copthorne Hotel Christchurch Durham Street presents a hotel Christchurch that is centrally located providing an ideal base from which to explore the rest of the city.

Categories Travel

Phaeng Waterfall

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

Praised for fulfilling the desires of keen hikers and backpackers, Phaeng Waterfall and Than Sadet National park are located in the charming island Koh Phangan, located on the Gulf of Thailand. Never failing to amaze the avid sightseeing tourists, Than Sadet National Park boasts four giant waterfalls among which the most stunning and popular one is Phaeng Waterfall.
Effortlessly combining the island’s beach paradise with the tropical jungle beauty Thailand is famous for; the waterfall is located in the small village of Madua Wan. Declared part of the National Forest in 1977, one will find various trekking routes as well as entrance points to reach the magnificent waterfall. An attraction bound to thrill and please any nature enthusiast, the falls is in proximity to the Khao Ra Viewpoint. A 200 metres long path takes you to this incredible mountaintop viewpoint.
The exciting journey that leads to the waterfall is an attraction itself, as it requires some hiking. However an enough number of marked trails are available, one of which you can take to reach the waterfall. The first interesting sight that you may come across once you reach the bottom of the waterfall is the pools with sparkling water. The inviting surroundings of these pools are ideal for a leisurely picnic savouring the delightful sight of the tumbling waterfall.
The peak of the waterfall is a quite precipitous climb with over 200-meter walk up a jungle trail. However, the spectacular scenery the top affords makes the strenuous climb worthwhile. Whilst true adventure seekers may find the hike to the top to be delightful, it is crucial for others to keep caution in the forefront.
In addition to the exceptional natural beauty, the island of Koh Phangan is famous for its sun-kissed pristine beaches presenting desirable snorkelling and dining spots. Nevertheless, it is the monthly held Full Moon Party; the island is most famous for.
After an exhilarating day visiting Phaeng Waterfall and its enchanting environs, one can opt to stay at one of the Koh Phangan hotels. Housing contemporary yet uniquely Thai, luxurious villas and suites is the Rasananda Phangan Island Resort & Spa, a highly preferable lodging option among all Koh Phangan resorts.
Categories Travel

Huaqing Hot Spring

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on




China is a nation though teeming with population is steeped in rich architectural masterpieces and ancient dynastical rulers. A popular tourist destination is the Shaanxi province situated towards the east of the country. Xian is the provincial capital of this mini-state. The combination of scenic beauty and ancient history together with its prehistoric artefacts make the location a popular tour itinerary. Other notable sights include the Yellow River and the Banpo Village remains.

Among the more popular destinations in Chain is the city of Xian. Renowned for portraying the entry point into the famous Silk Road, it resonates the deep historical culture of the entire country. With sites such as the Terra Cotta warriors Xian encompasses a rich civilization which is over 3000 years old. This important tourist locale portrays horses and soldiers depicted and moulded in clay providing valuable intuition towards the rise and fall of the Tang dynasty and ensuing life of its people. The City Wall, Bell and Drum Tower and even the Great Mosque are all sites and attractions dotting this famous city.

Another eye-catching scenic attraction in the city is the Huaqing Hot Springs. Situated near Mt. Lishan and over 30 kilometres from the City, a visit here affords a preview of the celebrated Tang dynasty. Ensconced within luxurious palaces complexes predating over 3000 years, this acclaimed bathing pool is listed under China’s famous garden sites. Visitors will be amazed at the artificial lake known as the Nine-Dragon Lake and other constructed halls and structures seen in the palace. Several pools such as the Lotus pool and pavilions enhance the scenic beauty of this national treasure.

For visitors to Xi’an seeking a home away from home stay, accommodation at a Xian apartment will provide all the desired comforts. An excellent choice which will surpass expectations is a stay at the Citadines Gaoxin Xi’an. These Xi’an apartments offer travellers excellent facilities with a homely flair. With numerous layouts and facilities to choose from the Citadines provides services of both an apartment and a hotel thus ensuring maximum rest and relaxation.

Categories Uncategorized

In pursuit of great flavours in the Valley of taste

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on




Swan valley is where the wonders of this western Australian region come together to enthrall its visitors with its native greenery, extensive wine yards rich with the aroma of breweries, its historic ruins and buildings and secluded footpaths and picnic grounds. This wonderland in Western Australia is surprisingly close to the Perth city centre being a mere 25 minute drive away while it is also 10 minutes away from the local airport. As the oldest wine growing region in the district, many wineries in this area still belong to the descendents of the European immigrants.

The best way to experience swan valley would be to journey along its winding path of Swan valley food and wine trail which stretches to 32 km with as many as 150 places of interest along the way from wineries to breweries to restaurants and shops. Strolling along this path, one comes upon a great many scenic locations where the abundance of trees as well as foot paths and nearby waterfalls make great picnic locations. Extensive wine yards and breweries throw their tempting aromas to the morning breeze and indeed, a taste of these fineries is possible along the way at the wine cellars. For the art and history fans, there are galleries as well as ancient heritage sites that lie along this path waiting to be explored. There are also plenty of activities to be tried such as cycling, horse riding and golf for the more enthusiastic and sporty traveller. While the extensive assortment of wines can cure your thirst for a rich, seductive flavor, a bite of those freshly baked goodies from one of the many restaurants along the way can do wonderful things to your palate. Many festivals, especially those where fine wines are a definite accompaniment, happens at swan valley and these include the wine show and the famous spring in the valley festival.

Finding a great place to unwind when visiting Perth need not be nerve wracking. Even for the business traveller or the leisure seeker, there is the modern contemporarily styled range of residences and Perth apartment accommodation available at Somerset St Georges Terrace including studios, spa studios and one bedroom apartments. Perth serviced apartments cannot get any better than this with the contemporary residencies offering an optimum range of facilities within chic interiors.

Categories Travel

Mae Kok River Cruise

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on


Flowing down across the border of Burma and Thailand, Mae Kok River passes the districts of Mae Chan, Mueang Chiang Rai, Wiang Chai and Chiang Saen. In a world with few opportunities to enjoy an eventful yet pleasant cruise along a famous river at a reasonable price, Chiang Rai boasts the Mae Kok River Cruise offered at an inexpensive price. The Thaton-Chiang Rai boat service run by Chiang Rai’s Mae Kok Boat Service Company offers trips that last for nearly three hours packed with an abundance of captivating sights.

Having originated in this location due to the existence of the river which was the main trade artery between Chiang Rai and the Thaton-Fang, the Thaton boat service currently runs primarily for the passengers. An ideal way to behold the backwoods of Chiang Rai Province, the boat ride departs from the dock in Thaton.

An exciting activity to indulge in whilst visiting Northern Thailand, the boat ride progresses through portions of dense jungle and one will see hill-tribe villages on the banks at occasional intervals. It is crucial to keep in mind that during and right after the rainy season, the river is deep and some parts of it become rapids which must be traversed only by people with skill.

The river consists of hundreds of miniature islets which are widely visited by trekkers taking boat trips from Thaton. A village named Karen, where locals raise elephants to use them in their daily work is located between Thaton and Chiang Rai. Those in a boat travelling along the Mae Kok River can easily see this village, and if it is in the late afternoon they may also get to see the elephants taking baths in the river.

In addition to these boat rides, charter boat trips, rafting trips, overnight camping and hiking trips are also available for the eager tourists.

Discerning travellers to this area in search of Golden Triangle hotels will be delighted to discover the exemplary Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand. Housing elegantly furnished rooms and suites with alluring décor amid spectacular vistas, the hotel is a standout among all Chiang Rai resorts ensuring its guests an unforgettable stay.

Categories Travel

Hamilton Gardens

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

The most popular attraction in the entire Waikato region, The Hamilton Gardens attracts around 600,000 visitors every year. When travellers venture in to the gardens for themselves, it soon becomes apparent why.

The gardens are divided in to four subsections each of which houses several smaller gardens inside. These main areas are known as Paradise Garden Collection, Cultivar Garden Collection, Productive Garden Collection and the Landscape Garden Collection respectively. Each of these areas has been lovingly crafted, presenting an aesthetic sensation that will astonish the senses.
The distinct appearances of each area will truly give visitors the impression that they have stepped in to another land altogether.

Hamilton Gardens is also the site of over 2000 events including The Pacific Rose Bowl Festival and the Hamilton Gardens Summer Festival. A host of musical performances grace this destination, encompassing an impressive range of musical genres in a showcasing of local talent.

A variety of art exhibitions are also held at Hamilton Garden further widening its artistic appeal. The displays all relate to specific art themes while some even present the chance to walk away with a fabulous piece of art for your home.

With a diverse offering of aesthetic beauty, musical and other art Hamilton Gardens is a destination that delivers a compelling creative world to explore. Entry to the garden is completely free while opening hours are from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm during the winter months and 7:00 am to 8:00 pm during the summer months. With so much on offer, visitors to Waikato have no excuse for missing this destination.

Guests wishing to visit this destination will find staying in a Hamilton New Zealand hotel such as Kingsgate Hotel Hamilton provides an accommodation option that provides convenient access to this destination. Guests of this Hamilton hotel will also enjoy exemplary service combined with an array of amenities during their stay.

Categories Travel

Huka Falls

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on

A magnificent and majestic natural formation in New Zealand, Huka Falls offers far more than a just a waterfall to be looked upon. Stepping in to the area surrounding this famous waterfall will send travellers in a soothing journey amidst nature.

Formed by the passage of the Weikato River in its journey towards Lake Taupo, the path of the river enters a narrow point with a gap of only 100m between the banks. From here the water is squeezed through a hard volcanic rock formation that creates a build up of pressure before it shoots out over the 11 metre drop of Huka Falls.

For those who wish to see this build up for themselves, the hike between Spa Park and Huka Park is a popular option as it takes travellers a chance to see the shifting water flow. This trek will last approximately one hour and begins at a section where the Waikato River is still fairly gentle.

A footbridge crosses over the top of the falls allowing visitors to get an up close look at the tremendous force of water colliding against rock. The feeling of fresh air and naturalistic scenery will truly invigorate all who visit.

When travelling to the Huka Falls visitors will be struck by the extremely picturesque nature of the area that almost looks like it could only exist in a postcard. The water is pristine, while the mountainous landscape on either side presents a stunning backdrop to the entire experience. The area surrounding Huka Falls is pleasant with it being completely enclosed by nature, which presents a stark contrast from the city.

For those seeking to visit the falls, staying in New Zealand hotels near Tapua Falls will reduce the hassle of travelling considerably. Copthorne Hotel Taupo presents New Zealand hotel packages that lets you make the best of the prominent Lake Taupo Business Centre from which the falls is easily accessible.

Categories Travel

Abu Dhabi’s White Fort

by Pushpitha Wijesinghe Posted on
Abu Dhabhi, the city of Gold has more to offer its visitors than all that glitters. Being the second largest and richest city in the world it is in the verge of becoming a tourist attraction with all luxuries the country has in store. One of its prized possessions is The Alhosn Palace. This historical feature has housed administrative and political records as it was home and office to the country’s government and court of justice.

This 200 year old prominent structure now has two sections, the old fort which was built by Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a castle when the seat of the government was moved to bu Dhabi Island in 1793. The second section reveals the changes which were done by Sheikh Saeed Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan. As the rulers changed they added a new touch to the age old fort.

The pictures below shows how the fort has changed its imagine to how it appears today.


This historical monument can be visited while your stay at a near by Abu Dhabi Hotel. If your planning on a vacation to the city of gold, don’t miss the opportunity to be dazzle by The Alhosn Palace.

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