Author Archives: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Things to do in Putrajaya

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Malaysia’s third and newest Federal Territory, Putrajaya is positioned about 25 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. It is constructed on expansive marshland which was once the grounds of the oil palm estate in Selangor. Putrajaya is part of the Malaysian government’s Multimedia Super Corridor project.


Extensive planning has been put in to developing Putrajaya as a contemporary city that occupies an area of about 5,000 hectares. The most up to date technologies and infrastructure have been incorporated to build this exceptional city. The well-paved roads and streets have been created to give a distinctly stylish European feel. Most government buildings have been designed in a way that blends both contemporary architectural styles and traditional Islamic arts.


A waterway has been built through the city which flows directly to an outsized lake. Putrajaya also features breathtaking landscapes that include parks and water lands that give the city a relaxing and picturesque ambience.


There are numerous places to explore while in Putrajaya which is only a few minutes away from the KLIA airport. Among the many fascinating attractions is the Putra Mosque which is an attractive structure that reveals the architectural growth of Muslim mosques. The pink dome and minarets of Putra Mosque are its prominent and unique features. It is beautifully and skilfully erected across the waters of the Putrajaya Lake.


To explore Malaysian flora and fauna, travellers will have to head towards the northern sector of Precinct 1 where the impressive Botanical Garden lies. It is also known as an unmatched place for research and education.


Putrajaya is also home to Dataran Putra which is also known as Putra Square. Perdana Putra that houses the office of the Prime Minister and Putra Perdana Park is positioned at the highest point of the city.


There are plenty of ways to get to Putrajaya. For instance, travellers can use the bus, railway or ferry services from Kuala Lumpur. There are numerous luxury accommodation in Kuala Lumpur that feature a host of modern amenities. Travellers can easily plan their stay at a Kuala Lumpur luxury hotel and explore the wonders of Putrajaya. For example, the intimate and stylish, Putrajaya Shangri-La offers a fusion of personalised service and sublime comfort.

Royal New Zealand Ballet – Tutus on Tour – A Realm of Spectacular Ballet Performances for your Enjoyment

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Deemed as one of most challenging dance forms in the arts field, ballet is a performance dance that requires discipline, flexibility and amazing work ethic. Possibly one of the reasons why the performing arts of ballet is widely appreciated by layman and experts alike, ballet is a genre of dance that is often arduous to master. Honing the intricate skills of ballet demands one’s utmost dedication and commitment as its poised style and tiers have become a highly technical form of dancing, especially over the recent years.


A performing art that has gained much interest, techniques of ballet have been known to be extremely powerful, touching the hearts of the audience. Having the innate ability to sway the feelings of the spectators, most often the performances move people to tears while others make people feel a sense of ecstasy. However, no matter what the performance entails, tragedy or drama, one element remains the same; the spectacular movements of the ballet performers.


An important event to the New Zealanders, the 2011 Tower Tutus on Tour will undoubtedly attract many people around the world, as the performances exude elegance, class and grace. This year, the main concentration of the performances will be about families. Encapsulating a sense of family-friendly entertainment for everyone to enjoy, it is bound to be a perfect time for adults and children alike to enjoy.


An event that is organized biennially, the Royal New Zealand Ballet will travel around the country between February and April. In hopes to visit both cities and towns, the people of New Zealand will be able to witness the dancers in all their glory whilst they perform the two productions planned for the tour: Pinocchio and Verdi Variations.


A children ballet, Pinocchio is a classical piece that children will love as it will prove to be a brilliant show-piece of a traditional children’s story. A story that comes to life, the ballet performers will present an entertaining and amusing tale that will engage the audience in an unforgettable ride.


A sparkling piece, Verdi Variations will be a stunning performance of incredible duets and dramatic solos. A grand performance, it promises to be an impressive performance filled with dazzling tiaras and exquisite tutus.


A night of breathtaking performances, the event will be held in town halls, school gymnasiums and community theatres in over 40 cities and towns. Lovers of classical ballet are bound to have an amazing time, astounded by the grace and poise of the choreographic movements.


For those who are interested in witnessing such remarkable performances when the tour hits Queenstown on March, there are many hotels nearby that should be considered. One such Queenstown hotel is Millennium Hotel Queenstown. Guest staying in this luxury hotel Queenstown offers will have the most comfortable settings of elegantly decorated rooms and will be in close proximity to the entertainment and shopping destinations in the area.

Royal Palace of Kandy – A Window into the Imperial Household of a Golden Era

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Regarded by visitors as the tiny teardrop in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers travellers many attractions which are appealing and diverse. Among the abundant sites include those of archeological and historical importance and abundant natural wonders. Golden sandy beaches, stunning landscapes interspersed with a deep sense of culture and tradition, make the nation an ideal destination.


Sri Lanka’s rich history portrays an era of kingdoms and their subjects. The island holds many majestic ruins of royal households allowing locals and visitors alike a window into the lives of this bygone epoch. In the heritage city of Polonnaruwa lie the Royal Palace of King Parakumba. The vestiges of this structure indicate the magnificence of the abode.


Cites in the country’s cultural triangle such as Anuradhapura and Sigiriya also house royal palaces. King Vijayabahu’s residence and Nissanka Malla’s citadel in Anuradhapura are significant architectural masterpiece of ancient times. Ruins of the fortress located atop of Sigiriya reveal chambers, courtyards and terraces. These ruins present an insight into this long-gone period.


The Royal Palace of Kandy is considered as the surviving dwelling belonging to the Kandyan sovereignty. Lived in by the last King, until overthrown, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, the facility housed both the royal court, better known in local parlance as the Magul Maduwa and the Temple of the tooth, which contains the much venerated Relic of the tooth of the Buddha.


The complex is significant both architecturally and historically, especially the great hall which housed audiences for the King. Built by wood, the pillars predate the late 1700s where the royal court was assembled. To-date however, few vestiges of palace grandeur remain. The country’s Department of Archeology has ceremoniously taken over the residual complex buildings and created a national museum for visitors to experience true Kandyan royalty.


The country’s hill capital Kandy offers visitors numerous options when selecting Sri Lanka hotels. The scenic countryside and salubrious setting make it the perfect getaway. A Sri Lanka Honeymoon Hotel for those seeking romance and solitude is the Jetwing Hunas Falls. A popular destination for visitors seeking to celebrate their new nuptials, this hotel provides the unspoiled location.

Things to Do in Muscat

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The biggest and most popular city of Oman is its capital city Muscat, which is also a major tourist attraction visited by people from all across the world. Positioned in northeast Oman, Muscat is well known for its unique sites, fun filled activities, friendly people, delectable cuisine and amazing scenery.


There are numerous places of historical and cultural interest in Muscat. Travellers can easily visit places like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Fish Market and Al Jalali Fort. The city boasts of two significant Hindu Temples namely a Shiva Temple and a Krishna Temple. Several churches such as the Roman Catholic Church of Saint Peter and the church of Saint Paul are located at a special compound in Ruwi. In Ghala, travellers can visit the beautiful Holy Spirit Church. There are also several mosques in Muscat which are Zawawi Mosque, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Ruwi Mosque.


Built out of 300,000 tonnes of pure Indian sandstone, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque took nearly six years and four months to complete. The square shaped prayer hall of the mosque has a dome that rise high as 50 metres above ground level. The main features of this unique and sacred building are its dome, main minaret and four flanking minarets. Yet another outstanding feature at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the prayer carpet which is also the biggest hand-woven carpet in the world.


Muscat is home to a large number of museums that include the National Museum of Oman, Omani French Museum, Natural History Museum, Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum, Omani Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries Centre and so much more.


Travellers can also visit the many lively nightclubs and tempting restaurants in Muscat. The twin forts of Al-Mirani and Al-Jalali are ideal for the young travellers. Al Alam Palace is also a fascinating place to explore. More than half a million visitors travel to Muscat purely due to its vast shopping facilities. For precious jewellery, antiques and clothes the best place to head to is Mutrah Souq market.


Visitors can plan their stay at a nearby Muscat luxury resort which is renowned for offering world class service. There are many Luxury accommodation in Muscat offering all the essential facilities to provide maximum comfort and convenience while being in this exceptional city. For instance, the Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa, Sultanate of Oman offers lavish facilities ideal for individual or family stay.

Thing to do in Penang: Island of Sheer Diversity

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Penang is one of Asia’s most loved and popular islands also known as the Pearl of the Orient. Breathtaking natural beauty, warm hospitality, exotic heritage and friendly people have become its main attractions.


The turtle-shaped island Penang covers a total land area of 292 square kilometres. Known in Malay as Pulau Pinang, Penang also includes Seberang Prai which is a strip of land on Peninsular Malaysia. The island was connected to the mainland in 1985 by a bridge which is at present one of the world’s longest bridges.


Penang is abounding with inexplicable temples and beautiful palm shrouded beaches. It is today a lively port, a heritage city and an important manufacturing base which makes it a fusion of the old and new. This stunning island destination is diverse in culture, food and environment and its capital Georgetown alone is a treat to watch. Travellers will find a Chinese temple, a church that is hundred years old, an Indian temple, a Muslim mosque all located close to each other.


The diversity of the people of Penang is best reflected through its delectable array of food which is available throughout the day. Travellers will also find many interesting traditional festivals taking place all through the year.


An interesting place to visit is the Acheen Street Mosque which is an important mosque for the Malay community. Associated with the Thaipusam festival that takes place on an annual basis is the Balathandayuthapani Temple in Penang. Travellers will also come across the oldest planted tree in Malaysia which is the Baobab Tree.


Yet another intriguing site to explore is the Bat Cave Temple which is a temple built in a cave which are inhabited by bats. Other impressive sites in Penang include Batu Ferringhi, Benggali Mosque, Bukit Dumbar, Bukit Jambul Complex, Cantonese Methodist Church, Cenotaph and so much more.


This extraordinary island and its unique wonders can be further explored by staying at a well appointed Penang hotel. There are numerous hotel accommodation in Penang that provide top class facilities for a pleasant and relaxing stay. For instance, Golden Sands Resort, Penang which is conveniently located close to the capital city is an ideal place for both business and leisure travellers.

Galway’s Land Bird Sanctuary – Delighting both Local and Overseas Bird Enthusiasts

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Sri Lanka is a captivating island located in the Indian Ocean. The country’s rich bio-diversity offers many attractions for those seeking leisure activities. White sandy beaches stretching endlessly, lush rainforests and a culture that is rich in tradition and history provide a tropical haven for visitors.


The country’s tropical weather coupled with its lavish bird and wildlife create the perfect ambience for the nature lover. The rich diverse environment provides a veritable boon to bird life. Sri Lanka plays hosts to over 400 species some even rare and endangered. Due to the humid locale many migratory birds are also set to make their home in Sri Lanka.


The rich rainforests, rives, lagoons and lakes all appeal to these species with popular bird watching haunts such as Kumana, Kitulgala, Minneriya, Muthurajawela, Bundala National Park, Minipe and Bellanwila. These areas are spread throughout the country with bird species being varied. Some of the birds that can be found are the Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Red-Faced Malkoha, and the Ceylon Grey Hornbill to name a few.

Located in the hills of Sri Lanka’s little England, Nuwara Eliya is the Galway’s Land Bird Sanctuary situated near the Victoria Park and neighboring the famed Lake Gregory. Spanning an area of over 20 acres, this sanctuary is diminutive in size when compared to the other parks and reservations in the island. However, it makes up in terms of housing over 20 species of migrating birds and over 30 indigenous varieties.


Travellers seeking to experience the fascinating serenity of the country’s tea and lush landscapes, a stay in Nuwara Eliya hotels will provide the perfect getaway. Among the Sri Lanka hotels, those located in these hilly climbs provide spectacular views and a foretaste of the quaint living experienced by British settlers.


Jetwing St.Andrew’s is a majestic hideaway located in the Nuwara Eliya hills. This regal abode pays homage to a timeless age of colonist rule. Antique furniture blends with modern conveniences where visitors can simply relax and take in the spectacular scenery.

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National Museum Maldives – Go Back in Time in Maldivian History

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Known as a melting pot of diverse cultures, Maldives is a vibrant land that is swathed in traditions and norms laid down many years ago. Its people, often eclipsing the beauty of the languorous cobalt waters, are a community of hospitable people, always greeting travellers with their infectious smiles. Having pride in their rich yet diverse culture, the museums in Maldives are perhaps one of the few destinations in the island that captures the true story of their past.


A must see attraction for tourists, the National Museum in Male is undoubtedly one of the finest gems in the city. Displaying the rich heritage and culture of the nation, it perfectly captures the epitome of what Maldives truly is, engaging its visitors on an epic journey of the lengthy history of the islands.


Connecting the audience in an unbreakable bond, the museum acts as a time capsule which goes way back in time, teleporting its visitors to an age where Islamic monarchies existed. Showcasing numerous objects belonging to such a period, the museum acts an open window to the vibrant Maldivian culture. Encapsulating a myriad of pieces of her history, the museum also flaunts a rare collection of pre-Islamic days. Touring around the place, one can find many evidences of such artifacts including the Buddha head that has been preserved for many years. Researchers believe that the sculpture existed before the 11th century AD, which was found in a dagoba in Alifu Atoll Thoddoo. A significant item in the site, there are many others exhibits that could be seen, including countless relics.


Evoking a strong sense of patriotism, the museum was opened to the public in 1952, when the entire nation was celebrating their National Day. Complementing the joyous festivities of the day, locals often flock around the museum with the intention learning more about their rich heritage.


Located in the scenic Sultan Park, the museum’s location is the idyllic complementation to the nature of what it houses. Having a special significance to the history of Maldives, the Sultan Park is regarded as the former site of the Royal Palace, many hundreds of years ago. Built during the 17th century, part of the museum’s interior bears texts from the Quran, all which have been handwritten on its walls. The texts represent the influences from the Maldives Sultanate era.


Showcasing rare collectibles, paraphernalia and memorabilia belonging to the ancient history of the islands, some of the items on display include extensive collections of coins, thrones, ornaments, armour and other arms. In addition, there are ceremonial gowns, fancy slippers, belts and colourful turbans showcased, which have been worn by the monarchy of Maldives.


When selecting amongst Maldives hotels, an obvious choice would be Adaaran Meedhupparu. This resort in Maldives offers the best accommodations for an exceptional vacation.

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Nightlife in Koh Samui – After Sunset Fun and Frenzy

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Thailand is one of the few places in south-eastern Asia where you can indulge in the pleasures and vices of an intriguing and stimulating nightlife. The southern beaches of the country is a tourist’s mecca that is alive with all the action and spice of life throughout the year, where one can also find the best of nocturnal amusement in Thailand. Among the many night spots you can find over there, the popular beaches of Koh Samui with its all night action is one of those places you just can’t miss if you know what you want tonight.


From discos to gourmet restaurants along with a bit of mud wrestling and Thai dancing, Koh Samui nightlife has everything you can imagine and more, in a way no other place on the south beach of Thailiand can hope to rival. Different flavours of nocturnal indulgence to keep you occupied till the night grows old are found all around the island, and in each location you get something different. The particular street or beach you are headed for tonight will decide what you will be in for when the sun goes down over the sun-swept beaches of Koh Samui.


Home to the largest discotheque in Koh Samui; The Green Mango, the beach neighbourhood of Chaweng is ground zero of Koh Samui’s night entertainment. The night party of Chaweng is the place to be for party animals from all over the world, where there is no stop to the flow of music, dance and drink. The bars, discos and clubs; especially the top ones such as the Sweet Soul Cafe and The Mint can be found at the Green Mango Square to keep the night flowing on. For a dining experience with a difference, you can try out Zico’s Brazilian themed restaurant or the Bar Ice, where the cold only make things warmer for the night. Lamai beach area is also worth checking out if you are hitting the streets, where the culbs Fusion and Super Sub rule the night. If you’re looking for something quieter, the experience of the Chill In beach restaurant or the plush and trendy Club Samui will be you thing for the night, after you catch a late night Thai Boxing match or two.


When you’re looking for a Ko Samui resort, better go for a Chewang hotel that puts you close to the after-sundown action. Places like the Anantara Lawana, Koh Samui has the best of Thai hospitality and modern luxury under one roof assuring you will be a rested and relaxed, leaving you with plenty of juice to enjoy the night.

Melbourne Nightlife – Melbourne breathes new life at night

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Tourists to Australia will discover that Melbourne’s nightlife is as vibrant as it’s popular bar culture. Its boulevards and lanes hold wide options of drink, food, and lively music to keep those feet moving till dawn.


The pubs and bars in Melbourne come in all shapes and sizes. For example old buildings and warehouses have been transformed into cool hang outs for locals and tourists. The options are many and range from cocktail lounges to underground dens with pulsating vibes, to the more obscure pubs bearing their unsigned doors.


The most popular hang out about this side of town has to be the Young and Jackson pub. This crowd puller has become most noted for its consistent high quality food, its offering of beers and of course Chloe- a nude portrait, which has now become legendary. The fact that the Young and Jackson pub is also central in location to many shopping districts also has its plus points. After a day out, tourists could drop by for some quick refreshments and entertainment before retiring for the night.


The Portland Hotel is another crowd puller in Melbourne and what has made it so unique are the blends of beer which they brew themselves. Towards the west end, the tavern by the name of Mitre has built a name for itself as one of the oldest pubs in Melbourne. It is still open to business for the bustling city’s office crowd that fills its seats even after 130 years.


Melbourne’s culinary institution the Cellar Bar in Grossi Florentino, serves up some dishes and menu options that are as satisfying as their list of liquid refreshments. Hang outs such as the Meyers Place is an original no signage bar. Tourists and locals, who gather at this dimly lit corner, are drawn simply through word of mouth. Another such place is the Kitten Club, and the only landmark to spot the place is an apple green door. This cocktail lounge mainly caters to Melbourne’s work crowd. Its glamorous dinning section serves up some amazing treats.



Just close by is another pub called Four which is not only a pub but its also an art space and even doubles up as a cocktail bar.


Having soaked up Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife, tourists to the city will want to indulge in some in-house hospitality. The Langham Melbourne offers just the thing with in-house spa facilities and dinning options above other Melbourne restaurants in the vicinity. Chuan Spa Melbourne offers a unique offering at this wellness centre.

Night Life in Phuket – Enjoy the Scintillating Nightlife Scene in Phuket

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Nightlife in Phuket has undergone a severe transformation over the years and the city that was once known as an exotic destination is now home to a variety of activities and events for travellers of all ages to partake in. The entertainment options here in Phuket is definitely worth being a part of and if you are planning on traveling to Phuket, Thailand be sure to make each one of your nights here as memorable as your days. The city boasts elegantly designed clubs, bars, discos and an array of dining options and night markets that are perfect for an after dark experience.


Travellers looking for a night of entertainment are sure to enjoy themselves at Phuket – this city is sprinkled with hot nightspots that operate until the wee hours of the morning. Some noteworthy places here are the Hot Bangla Road & Sois, Paradise Complex (a popular tourist destination, this complex is in close proximity to the beache and it provides visitors with an abundance of entertainment) and the Rat-U-Thit Road Nightlife. Other places that are most suitable for a night out are Phuket’s discos and dance clubs located around town, these places offer a groovy atmosphere and very good music for enthusiastic dancers.


Some of these clubs and discotheques include the renowned Seduction Discotheque – this club/discotheque is a must when you travel to the country. Other unique clubs include the Banana Disco, Tiger Disco and Bars, Hollywood Disco (among the best club’s in Phuket), Tai Pan and the Baya Beach Night Club. Phuket is also home to a variety of exotic clubs, Phuket beer bar and sports bars. Apart from the scintillating nightlife, Phuket is also famous for its Thai boxing and a number of places here host many live fights. Sporting enthusiasts can head over to Patong Beach, Kata Beach and Tiger Bay to catch some action.


Other forms of nightlife could include an after dark shopping experience at the O Top Shopping Paradise or a quiet evening at an elegant restaurant of your choice. Travellers looking for Phuket luxury villas that provide stylish accommodations will find the Anantara Phuket, Thailand ideal. This lodging option is amongst the most preferred Phuket pool villas and it provides its guests with abundant facilities and services for a relaxing stay.