Travel Articles (Page 45/64)

Stretching over 300km, the iconic Chao Phraya River twists through the heart of Bangkok, weaving the neighbourhoods together with riverfront communities that are integral to the city’s identity. Riverside areas offer a scenic contrast to the bustling streets of the city centre. Here, the banks are lined with historical complexes mingling with modern attractions and tourists staying at their luxury Bangkok city hotel, creating a unique travel experience in Thailand’s busy capital.

Wat Kalayanamit

This serene temple complex features ornate architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, offering a less crowded option for those looking to glimpse into the history of Thailand’s iconic temples. The buildings loom over the banks of the Chao Phraya, with a courtyard of picturesque ponds and waterlilies.

Wat Arun

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) sits across the river from Wat Kalayanamit, with its towering prang (Khmer-style spire) adorned with colorful porcelain shards. A breathtaking landmark during the day, the unique temple is bathed in gold during sunsets and stands as a glowing fixture when illuminated at night.

Lhong 1919

A restored riverside community, the former 19th-century Chinese Mansion features a courtyard of old shophouses transformed into art galleries, cafes, and unique shops. Follow the aroma of incense around the complex that sits only a minute away from the Wang Lee Pier ferry service.

Thonburi Canals

Explore the waterways inking the map of Thonburi, Bangkok – embark on a long-tail boat tour and weave through a network of khlongs (canals), witnessing local life unfold along the water’s edge. Despite the modern characteristics of the area, the canals pass through scenes of waterfront temples and bustling markets, a glimpse into a different side of Bangkok.

Asiatique The Riverfront Asiatique The Riverfront = Image via Flickr

A destination for shopaholics and foodies alike, the riverside market and mall of renovated waterfront warehouses houses trendy shops and renowned restaurants, 5 minutes away from Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok. Additionally, for a panoramic view of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya, catch a ride on Asiatique’s Ferris wheel overlooking the illuminated waters of the river.

Looking for an exciting and unique eco-tour? Florida’s subtropical climate and convenient access give you that and so much more! All types of people can (and do) go on outdoor adventures here. Abundant tour options enable visitors to see and experience Florida animals in the wild. Tourism and development pressure has put many species and habitats at risk but these are the stories of how your vacation dollars help protect and preserve these endangered species.

Manatee Encounters in Crystal River Photo Credit: Discover Crystal River Florida.

By now, most people know what a manatee is. They are the cute marine mammals that congregate in the springs during the winter and eat a lot. Their closest living relative is the elephant if that tells you something about their diet and appetite. They are also our favorite wild animals in Florida and our favorite weekend getaway in Florida.

Forty years ago, there wasn’t this kind of awareness. People called manatees funny looking speed bumps. The population was in steep decline, and boat strikes alone threatened to push them into extinction. Luckily, the state and Federal Government started to develop protection plans to save these gentle giants. These plans centered on using tourism to help spread the message.

The Florida Manatee Recovery Plan states – “Media coverage of manatee rescues, treatments, and releases helps to educate millions of people about manatees, the life-threatening problems that they face… In addition, more than eighteen million visitors a year see manatees at rehabilitation facilities and participate in manatee education programs sponsored by several parks. The publicity and outreach inherent in this program provide significant support to efforts to recover the manatee… Manatee viewing opportunities have also been made available to the public… Such efforts are essential for obtaining public compliance with conservation measures to protect manatees and their habitats. Many public awareness materials have been developed specifically focusing on boater education.“

Thanks to literally millions of people becoming involved, manatees have left the endangered list in Florida. They aren’t out of the woods yet, but there’s hope that you can continue to swim with manatees in Florida for years to come.

Diving on Coral Reefs in the Florida Keys Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

The Florida Keys boasts about how they have the only living coral barrier reef in America. Tour operators take boatloads of people every day to dive and snorkel in this underwater playground. However, if you read between the lines, you realize that the coral reefs of the Florida Keys are at the northern edge of their habitat. That makes the ecosystem vulnerable. As a matter of fact, Key West recently voted in a law to ban the sale of non-reef-safe sunscreen(sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate) believed to damage coral reefs. (This progressive policy took effect January 1, 2021)

In recent years, El Nino / La Nina weather patterns exposed the vulnerability of the reef system. Coral reefs are a complex symbiotic community of polyps and algae. When the reef is stressed, it releases the algae in a process called coral bleaching. Bleaching alone can recover quickly, but the stress exposes the ecosystem to diseases like white-band and blank-band coral disease. These are infections that can wipe out entire reefs very quickly. When the reefs go, the Florida animals living on them will soon follow.

Scientists and volunteers have been working tirelessly to fight these devastating threats. They are treating infected corals and propagating disease-resistant species. Right now, they are working to contain the disease and save the species. The economic value of these reefs to the Florida Keys is, in part, why Florida’s Governor DeSantis is recommending $277,650 for “Monroe County Reef Protection.”

Dolphin Tours in Panama City Beach Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.

It seems like every beach town in Florida has some kind of dolphin tour rolling, for good reason too. These little guys are pretty darn cute and we love it that people are seeing them in nature instead of dolphin shows. However, Panama City Beach and its adjacent St Andrews Bay offer something particularly unique – the world’s largest population of Bottlenose Dolphins. Of course, with a draw like that, a lot of people get into the dolphin tour business, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

St Andrew’s Bay is a particularly vulnerable ecosystem because it has minimal tides combined with a small influx of fresh water. Advocacy groups, like the Friends of St Andrew’s Bay, are taking up the banner to protect this resource. They put it so eloquently – “We can lose a great number of species within our nationally-significant ecosystem if we don’t care for it properly. If the water becomes turbid or if sediments become contaminated, we can lose everything. Property values, recreation, and fishing are also at stake. We don’t want to lose our biological treasure and the social benefits it provides.”

Sea Turtle Hatching in Fort Lauderdale Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

When Europeans first came to Florida, they loved sea turtles because they could stay alive for months upside down in the ship’s hold until they were finally eaten. Green turtle soup canneries have decimated that species in Florida. Somewhere between the 1973 Sea Turtle Protection Act and Crush, the dude-ing turtle from Finding Nemo, sentiments have changed. Nothing captures the poetic struggle of life more beautifully than baby sea turtles hatching and rushing towards the ocean. It’s mad and perfect at the same time. Seeing these little guys running down the beach to swim out into the open ocean captures the spirit of hope in all of us.

We had an opportunity to watch a turtle hatch for ourselves with Sea Turtle Oversight Protection, a community group dedicated to saving baby sea turtles. All summer long, their volunteers watch nests that are about to hatch and help the hatchlings to the ocean if they get confused by the bright lights of Fort Lauderdale. To date, they have saved over 200,000 (yes five zeros!) baby sea turtles who would have otherwise died on the beach or on the road. (Hooray for endangered species in Florida!)

Despite growing as a tourist destination, Fort Lauderdale is now neck and neck with Oman as the largest turtle hatchery. In 1985, only 1216 turtles nested in Broward County. Today, that number is about 4,000 with more coming every year. Conservationists mark the nests and help the hatch, but you can see this midsummer miracle for yourself as an eco-tourist.

The Elusive Florida Panthers of the Everglades Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

There are some Florida animals you’re not likely to see, but that doesn’t mean tourism isn’t helping them too. Per the Florida Panther Recovery Plan  – “Panthers require large, contiguous areas of suitable habitat to meet their social, reproductive, and energetic needs. Panther habitat selection is related to prey availability, which means they select habitats that make prey vulnerable to stalking and capturing. Dense understory vegetation provides some of the most important feeding, resting, and denning cover for panthers.“

The plan goes on to explain “The breeding range of the Florida panther population is currently restricted to habitat south of the Caloosahatchee River in southern Florida.” For the lay folk, it means Everglades National Park and the associated wildlife preserves. Activities, like airboat rides in the Everglades, introduce people to this unique ecosystem and dispel myths and fears about swamps. People are learning why wetlands are worth saving instead of draining for more condos. Is it working?

The Florida panther population has increased from about 20 adults in the early 70’s to almost 300 adults today. Breeding females have been found north of the Caloosahatchee with individuals regaining historic ranges in Georgia. Scientists continue to fight the fight and introduce fresh genetic stock from related pumas in Texas, but it’s up to us  to choose the wildlife of the Everglades over the nightlife of Miami.

Miniature Key Deer on Big Pine Key Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

Have you ever heard of a Key Deer before? Perhaps not because there’s only 800 of them in the world and they only live in the Florida Keys. But, if you’ve ever seen Rudolf the Rednose Reindeer cartoon, they look just like that (minus the nose). They are about the size of a big dog and cute as a puppy.

Not so long ago, Key Deer were a few gunshots from being extinct. Poaching in the 1950s reduced the population to only a few dozen animals. The establishment of the Key Deer Refuge and the subsequent 1967 status of the endangered species act allowed for a dramatic recovery of the species. Now, nearly a thousand Key Deer live in the Keys, mostly around Big Pine and No Name Key.

When you’re planning your visit to the Keys, consider visiting the refuge to see these cuties for yourself. It will be a reminder of why you should drive the speed limit on Highway 1, especially at night when these Florida animals are more active.

Goliath Grouper Aggregation on Florida Shipwrecks Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.

For our next “only in Florida animal encounter” we have the Goliath Grouper aggregation. They are the diametric opposite of Key Deer in every way except how ecotourism is helping to save the species. These enormous fish are the apex predators in the shallow reefs surrounding Florida. Epinephelus itajara, aka Goliath Grouper, are the largest grouper species in the Atlantic Ocean weighing up to 800 pounds.

They were considered for inclusion on the endangered species act in 1991. By 1993, all commercial fishing was prohibited in Florida and the Caribbean. Florida began to add artificial reefs along the coast from Miami up to Palm Beach. In all, about 300 ships were sunk along the coast. The grouper population responded well. By 2006 they were removed from the species of concern list.

With numerous shipwrecks populated by 800 lb fish, the Florida Reef Tract has become a destination dive location. Perhaps the most famous dive is the grouper aggregation on the M/V Castor in Palm Beach. In the late summer, hundreds of enormous fish gather on this deep wreck in one of the most impressive pelagic viewing dives on the planet.

Florida’s Wild Monkeys Photo Credit: Jenn Coleman.

On the Silver River, near Silver Springs State Park, eco-tourists can experience another ‘Only in Florida’ encounter – wild monkeys. If you have the means to travel the world, you’re bound to see monkeys in the wild, but for many blue-collar tourists, this might be their only chance.

No, these monkeys aren’t native Florida animals. In 1938 Colonel Tooey imported six monkeys for his wild Jungle Cruise. A few years later, he brought in six more. Now, over 200 monkeys are swinging through the cypress swamps. That means this entire population came from a minimal genetic stock. Only, unlike the Florida panther, scientists are not looking to introduce genetic diversity. You can see their crooked tails and other traits from a shallow gene pool in this isolated population. Even if they are a non-native species, a kayak trip down the Silver River is still a fascinating and fun animal encounter! Native or not, they are wild animals so don’t feed, approach, or harass the monkeys. Just enjoy them from a distance.

Hope for Florida Animals Photo Credit: Discover Crystal River Florida.

Animal encounters only in Florida are real. America’s subtropics are filled with stories of challenge, redemption, and thousands of volunteers working to save species and habitat. Eco tourism driven education and funding have helped further that cause. From manatees to sea turtles, dolphins to divers, animals are coming back from the brink and having a fighting chance. We hope you are inspired to come to Florida for an amazing eco-adventure.

In the heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, stands a towering masterpiece that has become an iconic landmark of modern architecture – the Kingdom Centre Tower. Completed in 2002, this impressive structure reaches a height of 302.3 meters, making it one of the tallest buildings in the country.

Developed by the Kingdom Holding Company, the tower was designed by a US-based architecture firm and features a unique design that sets it apart from other skyscrapers in the city.

Key Information: The Kingdom Centre Tower

Location: Olaya Street, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

How to Get There

By Car: Accessible via major roads and highways in Riyadh

Public Transport: Near bus stops and a planned metro station

Parking: Ample parking available for visitors

Architecture

Designers: Ellerbe Becket and Omrania

Height: 302.3 meters (41 floors)

Structure: Features a parabolic arch with a skybridge at the top

Materials: Steel and glass construction

Visiting Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds

Tickets: Purchase in advance for the skybridge

Nearby Attractions

Riyadh Gallery Mall: A short drive away

Kingdom Tower Mosque: Located within the Kingdom Centre, open to visitors

The Design and Architecture

At first glance, the Kingdom Centre Tower’s most striking feature is its inverted catenary arch, which creates a curved opening at the top of the tower. This architectural marvel is not just for aesthetic purposes; it also serves a functional role in reducing heat gain and providing a unique perspective for visitors.

The Kingdom center tower is divided into two symmetrical wings, with an enclosed corridor connecting them. The East Wing of the tower houses the Four Seasons Hotel, offering luxury apartments and service facilities such as private meeting rooms and waiter service. The West Wing is dedicated to office space, providing a thriving place for businesses in the city.

The Sky Bridge and Viewing Experience

One of the most thrilling experiences at the Kingdom Centre Tower is a visit to the sky bridge on the 99th floor. This glass-enclosed bridge offers panoramic views of Riyadh city, allowing visitors to witness the bustling city below and the city lights shimmering in the night. The sky bridge is accessed by two elevators and provides the best viewing experience of the city’s skyline.

Attractions and Facilities

Aside from the sky bridge, the Kingdom Centre Tower offers a range of attractions and facilities for visitors. The tower houses shopping malls with high-end boutiques and specialty restaurants, offering a unique shopping and dining experience. The mall also features a Vox Cinema, providing entertainment for the whole family. For those looking for a taste of luxury, the tower’s Royal Suites offer an unparalleled experience with their lavish furnishings and amenities.

Attractions Near Kingdom Centre Tower

Located near the Kingdom Centre Tower is the Riyadh Gallery Mall, another popular shopping destination in the city. The mall features a wide range of stores, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, making it a must-visit for shoppers. Additionally, the tower is close to other iconic landmarks in Riyadh, such as the Kingdom Tower Mosque, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.

Stay Options Near Kingdom Centre Tower

For those seeking luxury accommodations near the Kingdom Centre Tower, the Four Seasons Hotel within the tower itself offers a five-star experience with its royal suites and impeccable service. Additionally, the tower’s proximity to other upscale hotels, such as the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh and the Marriott Riyadh Diplomatic Quarter, provides guests with a range of luxury options to choose from.

Ritz-Carlton Riyadh

For travelers on a budget, there are several affordable stay options near the Kingdom Centre Tower. Budget-friendly hotels like the ibis Riyadh Olaya Street and the Holiday Inn Riyadh Al Qasr offer comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. Additionally, there are numerous guesthouses and serviced apartments in the area that provide a more economical alternative for budget-conscious travelers.

FAQs Are there any guided tours available for the Kingdom Centre Tower?

Yes, guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the tower’s architecture and history.

Can visitors access the sky bridge during prayer times?

The sky bridge is closed during prayer times, so visitors should plan their visit accordingly.

Is photography allowed inside the Kingdom Centre Tower?

Photography is allowed in most areas of the tower, but visitors should be respectful of other guests and follow any guidelines provided.

Are there any restrictions on what can be brought into the Kingdom Centre Tower?

Yes, visitors are advised to avoid bringing large bags or backpacks, as they may be subject to security checks.

Explore More in Saudi Arabia

The post A Guide to The Kingdom Centre Tower, Riyadh first appeared on CuddlyNest Travel Blog.

They say how you welcome a new year is a good indicator of how the year will proceed. There’s nothing quite like celebrating New Year’s Eve in Dubai with its glamorous nightlife, outstanding entertainment, and spectacular skyline views.

The city is home to some of the most extravagant New Year’s Eve events on the planet, which include the renowned Burj Khalifa fireworks display that attracts thousands of tourists to this beautiful city each year.

So, are you planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai? Here is a list of the most amazing things to do during New Year’s Eve in Dubai, with a hearty dose of fireworks, food, and celebrations.

New Year’s Eve In Dubai – Best Ways To Celebrate
Catch the fireworks

Best Places to Watch New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Dubai	✦ Burj Park ✦ Atlantis The Palm ✦ Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise ✦ Dubai Mall ✦ Madinat Jumeirah

New Year’s Eve in Dubai is doubtless a major affair, complete with spectacular fireworks displays at the city’s famous landmarks. Expect breathtaking lights, lasers, and fireworks lighting up the Downtown sky, with the Burj Khalifa as a glowing centerpiece.

Popular places to see the fireworks on New Year’s Eve for free include the Dubai Canal, Souk Al Bahar, Burj Park, and Dubai Mall. Be aware though that these spots tend to fill up quickly, so it’s advised to arrive early if you plan to attend. Atlantis, The Palm, Bluewaters Island, and Festival City Mall are also good places to catch the show.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Global Village Photo credit: Khaleej Times

Where Is It?	38C5+F57 – Dubai – UAE. Find on map
What To Expect	90+ cultures, 3,500+ shopping outlets, 250+ dining options, performances from 40+ countries, and 195+ rides and attractions
Stay Nearby	The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle | Check Availability

The world-famous open-air fair, Global Village in Dubai, provides a unique New Year’s Eve experience with more than 30 pavilions representing the different traditions of each country.

The musical fireworks are outstanding and quite a sight to see. Spend your New Year’s Eve in Dubai dining, shopping, and engaging in exciting activities. Kids love the Carnaval, so you don’t have to worry about entertaining them.

“Tourists should not miss seeing Global Village,” says Kevin, a satisfied visitor, “We had fun and captured some incredible pictures. The fireworks during New Year’s Eve in Dubai were amazing.”

Attend a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Photo credit: Fact magazines

Must-Try Gala Experiences	✦ Seven Course Dinner at Beluga ✦ Unlimited cocktails and dinner at Basta ✦ NYE Dinner Cruises ✦ Royal Dinner At Burj Al Arab ✦ Argentinian Dinner at Asado

Trying to find a nice way to start the new year? Reserve a seat for the event at one of the many luxurious restaurants in Dubai. Exclusive New Year’s Eve gala dinners with specially prepared menus are generally hosted by most of the city’s restaurants. These Gala Dinners are not just about enjoying a delicious meal, they are also immersive experiences featuring live entertainment, fine wines, and a festive atmosphere.

Celebrate on the sand at Zero Gravity

Where Is It?	Dubai Marina – King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St. Find on map
What To Expect	✦ A line-up of acclaimed DJs ✦ Lavish buffets ✦ All-day pool party
Stay Nearby	Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection | Check Availability

The New Year’s Eve Beach Festival at Zero Gravity Dubai is the place to be if you’re looking for a vibrant beachside celebration. An amazing lineup of international DJs will take you on a musical trip through the hours leading up to midnight as the sun sets on the last day of the year.

Enjoy beachside dining, dancing under the stars, and refreshing beverages with friends at Zero Gravity on New Year’s Eve, all while taking in Dubai’s beautiful coastal surroundings.

Peter, an enthusiastic tourist, says – “My experience at Zero Gravity was excellent. It was a large venue with a lot of people in it. Enjoy stunning views of the fireworks and Dubai Marina. In addition to VIP and VVIP, the facility had various levels of ordinary admission. It was a nice spot to spend New Year’s Eve in Dubai and it was fun.”

Spend an unforgettable night at the Dubai Opera

Where Is It?	Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai. Find on map
Stay Nearby	Address Downtown | Check Availability

Say goodbye to the old and hello to the new at Dubai Opera with a fantastic event. Renowned DJ sets will take place at the historic Downtown Dubai location after brilliant performances by talented artists. Attendees can enjoy a Gala Dinner, a dazzling live show, and incredible views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa. As midnight approaches, raise your voice in song and raise a toast to new beginnings and endless possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The post 5 Exciting Ways To Celebrate New Year’s Eve In Dubai first appeared on CuddlyNest Travel Blog.