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UK tourists to Sri Lanka increase

Colombo: The highest number of British tourists in 2009 was recorded in the month of August, an increase of more than 1,000 visitors or 16.9 percent compared to August of last year, Sri Lanka Tourist Promotion Bureau said.

Forward bookings show a favourable end to the year 2009, the Bureau said adding that this was possible due to Sri Lanka’s triumph over the terrorism and the subsequent relaxation of the UK Foreign and Common wealth Office advice, which has opened up additional major tourist attractions such as Yala National Park, Trincomalee, and Arugam Bay.

“We are delighted that people have chosen to visit over the last few months, showing the renewed confidence in Sri Lanka as a safe and value for money destination,” UK Director of Sri Lanka Tourism said.

“We have worked on a persistent promotional campaign in conjunction with the hotel industry back home and with our airline and tour operator partners in the UK, and the results have been very positive. To have improved visitor figures during the recession shows that the British public are aware of the diversity that Sri Lanka offers and keen to experience an Indian Ocean break, at an attractive price,” the Director added.

Thanks: CP

Malaysia

Malaysian Airlines now connects Colombo and Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia Airlines the national carrier of Malaysia will increase its flight frequency between Colombo and Kuala Lumpur to five. The fifth frequency from Colombo will depart BIA at 1.45 am on Wednesdays from October 28.

The Malaysia Airlines now offers low fares, which will continue till 31 March 2010.

The area manager of the Airline for Sri Lanka and Maldives Manamohan Singh said that Kuala Lumpur is a favourite destination for tourists and business travellers due to the close business and family ties between the two countries. Our average load factor is 90% as we are a preferred airline, offering convenient schedules, seamless connectivity and services of a full service carrier, he said.

Singh said that the flight schedules of Malaysia Airlines have been designed for customer convenience. Arriving early in the morning gives them a head-start in their trip, be it business or leisure. In addition, they can easily connect to ASEAN countries, China and Australia via our vast network, he said.

The high commissioner of Malaysia to Sri Lanka Rosli Ismail said that there is an increase in visa applications to Malaysia and it is a sign of improved economic activities and shows that the purchasing power of Sri Lankans have improved. The number of Sri Lankan tourists to Malaysia has grown 35% over the last two years. In 2008 42,774 Sri Lankans visited Malaysia compared to 31,733 in 2007. The number of Malaysians visiting to Sri Lanka too has increased from 12,737 in 2007 to over 15,000 in 2008, he said. Malaysia Airlines started its operations to Colombo in 1994 as an off line station and Colombo became an on line station in 2002 after it commenced two times a week service between two countries.

The frequency increased to three in 2003 and to four in 2007. Malaysia Airlines is one of the six five star airlines in the world accredited by Skytrax.

-GW

Sri Lanka

Senses Celebrates Resurgence of Sri Lanka with Exceptional Travel…

Brentford, UK (PRWEB) — As travel bookings for Sri Lanka start to rise again, leading independent specialist Senses Holidays is encouraging uptake with the introduction of luxury break deals for this winter.

An upturn in tourism bookings is the most positive indicator yet that the beautiful Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka has returned to its paradise island status after three decades of war and internal troubles.

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has already declared 2011 as “Visit Sri Lanka Year” with a heavy marketing campaign to support the new tourism initiatives, but it appears that the visitors could be returning sooner than anticipated as bookings for early 2010 are looking brighter by the day.

Independent Indian Ocean travel specialist Senses Holidays are doing their fair share to bring the market back by launching some very special offers for holidays in Sri Lanka on their recently-launched website at www.sensesholidays.co.uk

Bargains on offer include a 7 night all inclusive stay at the 5 star Royal Palms Beach Hotel from £799pp sharing a double room

Those looking for a spa experience of pure indulgence may prefer 7 nights at the 5* Jetwing Light House Hotel & Spar available from £757pp for two sharing on a B&B basis 7 nights/ 8 days.

Both offers are valid 15th November 2009. The website also features special deals for holidays to Malaysia, Kerala and the Maldives, all of which are available for a limited period.

“We are delighted to be able to provide these special deals to Sri Lanka at a time when this beautiful island is enjoying a return to normality” explains Senses Managing Director Prabath Hewagama. “To anybody who has never visited Sri Lanka, it is a truly unbelievable experience that will not be forgotten. Whether hardened traveller or honeymooner, Sri Lanka’s appeal is very special. It is a place that visitors return to time and time again.”

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Senses Holidays
+44 (0)20 8568 411

Australia

Alice Springs Quad Bike Undoolya Discovery Tour

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £109.75
Location: Alice Springs, Australia
3.5star based on 2 reviews

A short transfer from all accommodation in Alice Springs to Undoolya Station, only 17km east of the town centre. This is the oldest working cattle station in the Northern Territory and Outback Quad Adventures are the sole operators on the station.

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Inclusions:

Instant Confirmation
Choice of morning or afternoon departure
Small group ensures personal service
Informative, friendly and professional guide
Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
2.5 hour quad bike ride
Touring with experienced guide
Drinking water
Australia’s Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Conducted in English

Undoolya Station has been operating since the 1800s. The people associated with the property and the history that has been created is nothing short of fascinating. The property is named after the aboriginal word meaning, shadow. The homestead was one of the first buildings constructed in Central Australia, and is still the main family accommodation.

This adventure includes a guided tour with commentary across the station over bush tracks, dry riverbeds and alongside mountain ranges. Wildlife can also be viewed at close proximity. Your quad bike adventure really allows an exciting experience of Undoolya Station and this unique outback area with its varied wildlife.

All bikes are fully automatic, superior specification, and easy and fun to ride. No license is required. No previous experience is necessary and the tour operator has an excellent safety record.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from your selected Alice Springs hotel
Departure Time: May – September 8:00am / 2:00pm – – October – May 7:00am / 3:00pm
Return Details: Returns to original departure point – 3.5hrs

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

Coming from a farming background it was interesting to see how an outback ranch works. You cover alot of ground and really test the ability of the quad bikes. We managed to see a lot of kangaroos in their natural habitat as well. Our guide was also a top bloke.

Reviewed by: Gordon M, United Kingdom

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 30+ HOTEL DEALS IN ALICE SPRINGS, AUSTRALIA – HERE!

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Dominica

Half Day Jeep Safari Tour of Dominica

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!

From £41.00
Location: Roseau, Dominica
based on 3 reviews

A fun-filled ‘wacky’ adventure awaits you on of the intricately painted, open-air, four wheel drive vehicles. Your experienced tour guides are nature lovers who will escort you on the tour, first through the capital, Roseau and then to Morne Bruce for some of Dominica’s history and a picturesque view of the capital. You will make a brief stop at the Botanical Gardens for a close-up encounter with the National Parrot – the Sisserou.

Inclusions:

* Hotel pickup (selected hotels only)
* Half Day Jeep Safari Tour
* Refreshments
* Conducted in English

Feel the force of Nature as you wind through the mountains to the renowned Wotten Waven Sulphur Springs to view remnants of the island’s volcanic activity. Hop back on and enjoy an exciting ride further into the islands rainforest, to the Ti Tou Gorge, situated in the village of Laudat. Here you will discover a crevice in the mountain where hot and cold streams intermingle into a natural plunging rock pool for an exhilarating swim!

If you are really adventurous, you can swim between the mountains of the gorge to discover a spectacular view of a crystal clear waterfall – a fitting climax to your rainforest adventure!

Complimentary rum punch and fresh fruit will be served before you return refreshed to your ship or hotel!

Site Information: Ti Tou Gorge
Ti Tou Gorge is an outlet of the Fresh Water Lake, one of the few mountain crater lakes in the Caribbean. It is situated in the village of Laudat engulfed in the secondary rain forest of the Central Rainforest Region. No hiking…our Wacky Rollers Jeeps take you off-road for a few minutes into this tranquil area with less than a 1 minute stroll to the most unusual natural site. An unforgettable Wacky experience!

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour commences with a pick-up from centrally located hotels or the cruise ship pier
Departure Time: 8:45am / 12:45pm
Tour Returns: Approximately 3hours

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

We had a great time, and the guides were great! We felt well taken care of and got lots of information about the island and its people. The swim in the river to the waterfall was a great experience.

Reviewed by: Michael L, United States of America

COMPARE AND BOOK HOTEL DEALS IN ROSEAU, DOMINICA – HERE!

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United Arab Emirates

Private 4×4 Safari: Taste of the Arabian Desert Day…

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £65.50
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Take this private 4×4 safari tour for a taste of the Arabian desert adventure! Let your own private guide show you a lush oasis filled with vegetable and fruit farms, hidden in the mountains in the heart of the red and dusty desert. Tuck into a delicious picnic as you enjoy the contrasting scenery, and see the bizarre rock formation, known as Camel Rock.

Inclusions:

Private tour is operated with just your party and a guide/driver
Free hotel pickup and drop-off included
Get off the beaten track in a 4×4
Lunch included
Conducted in English

The tour heads out East of Sharjah towards the oasis village of Falaj Al Mualla. This is a largely agricultural area of the Emirates, so you will pass by fruit and vegetable farms en route to a hidden mountain Wadi (dry river bed). After a delicious picnic lunch, the drive continues across the red and dusty desert to Camel Rock, an unusual rock formation hidden among the spectacular sand dunes.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from centrally located Dubai hotels

Pickup available from Port Rashid Dubai Cruise port, please allow at least 30 minutes from cruise arrival to disembark and meet the tour guide for your pickup

Departure Time: Approximately 8:30am

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Return Details: Returns to original departure point

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 350+ HOTEL DEALS IN DUBAI, UAE

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Australia

Fraser Island Full-Day Small Group Tour from Hervey Bay

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £112.00
Location: Fraser Island, Australia
3star based on 4 reviews

Discover Fraser Island in five-star style from the comfort of your purpose built, air-conditioned 4WD tour bus. The World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, situated in Queensland, Australia, is the largest sand island in the world and the only place on earth where rainforest grows in sand.

Inclusions:

* Hotel pickup and drop off
* Local guide
* Morning tea and gourmet barbecue lunch with a choice of grilled fish or steak with salads.
* Wine, Australian beer, soft drink, tea and coffee
* National Park fees
* Travel in air-conditioned 4WD vehicle
* GST (Goods and Services Tax)
* Conducted in English

Fraser Island’s abundant pristine freshwater lakes, crystal clear creeks and sweeping beaches all help to form this unique natural environment that has developed over 800,000 years. The indigenous Badjala name for Fraser Island, K’Gari, means paradise and you have the opportunity to explore this natural heaven on this five-star guided tour. This Exclusive tour is unique by being the only day tour that visits Lake Allom, home to the freshwater turtles which surface regularly.

Our experienced guides will share their knowledge of the Island with you – from the early history of Fraser Island and the important cultural aspects to information about the Island’s unique flora and fauna. Over 325 species of birds and several species of wallabies, possums, turtles, flying foxes, echidnas and eastern Australia’s purest population of dingo can be found on Fraser Island.

Small group numbers ensure personalized service and plenty of interaction with the natural environment and attractions of the Island. Each Guest is provided with binoculars providing a closer look at the abundant birdlife, flora and fauna this Island sustains.

This tour guarantees visitors a genuine ecotourism experience that has been audited under Ecotourism Australia’s world-leading ECO Certification program under Advanced Ecotourism. This operator is part of Australia’s leading and most innovative ecotourism products, providing an opportunity to learn about the environment, committed to achieving best practice when using resources wisely, contributing to the conservation of the environment and helping local communities.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from selected Hervey Bay hotels
Departure Time: 8:25am

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation. Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Return Details: Returns to original departure point at approximately 5:30pm

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

I was very impressed with the tour, particularly the guide. It was extremely well organized, and upon returning to the mainland I booked a three day safari in October.

Reviewed by: Susie M, Australia

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 50+ HOTEL DEALS IN HERVEY BAY, AUSTRALIA

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New Zealand

Rotorua 4WD Bush Safari Tour

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £41.55
Location: Rotorua, New Zealand
4star based on 2 reviews

Get out of your comfort zone on this challenging 45-minute 4WD Rotorua off-road adventure tour. Negotiate waterfalls, daunting lunges, tunnels and more on this awesome driving and sightseeing experience.

Inclusions:

* 45-minute 4WD off road experience
* Professional guide
* Full Safety briefing and all safety equipment
* GST (Goods and Services Tax)
* Conducted in English

Conquer the trails as you manoeuvre a 4WD vehicle along beautiful native rainforest challenging trails. You’ll be under the watchful eye of a fully trained instructor who can always see you but you can’t always see him. Instructions will be given via 2-way radio.

All participants must sign declaration form to say they hold a valid drivers license from country of origin.

Schedule

Departure Point: 20 minutes North of Rotorua off SH5 heading towards Hamilton/Auckland, Amoore Road
Departure Time: Tours depart every hour from 9:00am to 4:00pm

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

I’ve never been quite the adventurous type so I was a little concerned about taking this trip however there was absolutely no need to worry as it looked much more difficult than what it was! I absolutely loved the challenge and felt so proud of myself when I completed it. I would LOVE to take this trip again. Absolute highlight of my trip to Rotorua.

Reviewed by: Joanne B, Australia

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 110+ HOTEL DEALS IN ROTORUA, NEW ZEALAND

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Curacao

Curacao North Shore Jeep Safari Tour

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £40.10
Location: Curacao, Netherlands Antilles

Climb aboard for a unique adventure in a bright Yellow Jeep! The 4x4s will take you on tour to places only off road vehicles can reach, in order to spot some of the most amazing scenery and wildlife Curacao has to offer! Don’t get left behind – book now!

Inclusions:

* Off road 4WD adventure tour
* Hotel pickup and drop off (selected hotels only)
* Professional guide
* Beach Break
* Conducted in English

You’ll be picked up at your hotel and given a briefing and safety instructions by our driver/guide in reference to operating open vehicles, specifically in the “wild Curacao” terrain.

Then, you’ll drive to an off road area where your 4×4 outdoor adventure will start. Explore Curacao’s wild nature terrain, with cacti and divi-divi trees, with the possibility of spotting wara wara birds of pray, lizards, flamingos and wild pigs. This will certainly be one of the highlights of your holiday!

An included visit to the Brua “Voodoo” cave is a interesting historical adventure through time.

After, take a refreshing beach break where you’ll be given the opportunity to take a nice swim or simply relax. Explore one of Curacao’s beautiful beach coves and savor a cool drink and a tasty snack.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from most Willemstad hotels
Departure Time: Friday 8:30am / Sunday 2:00pm

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Return Details: Returns to original departure point

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 25+ HOTEL DEALS IN CURACAO, NETHERLAND ANTILLES

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Australia

7-Day 4WD Ningaloo Reef Adventure Tour from Perth

BOOK THIS TOUR – CLICK HERE!
From £493.87
Location: Perth, Australia

This 4WD 7-day adventure tour will have you enjoying Ningaloo Reef, Shark Bay, the dolphins at Monkey Mia, Coral Bay, Kalbarri and the Pinnacles. Swim, snorkel, scuba, ride a quad bike or take a boat cruise. The tour is accommodated on sheep stations, farms and country lodges.

260-kilometre-long Ningaloo Reef offers world class diving through to family snorkelling in sheltered lagoons crammed with coral gardens. Ningaloo is the largest fringing coral reef in Australia. It is the only large reef in the world found so close to a continental land mass; about 100 metres offshore at its nearest point and less than seven kilometres at its furthest. The park covers more than 4000 square kilometres and was declared in 1987.

Inclusions:

Close encounter with friendly dolphins
Get off the beaten track in a 4×4
All-inclusive tour
Informative, friendly and professional guide
Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
Meals as specified in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
All National Park fees
Australia’s Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Conducted in English

Accommodation: Accommodation is mostly situated on farms, stations and country hostels. Room configurations vary from 2 to 10 bed bunkhouse rooms with shared toilet and shower facilities. If you don’t have your own sleeping bag, one can be purchased for approximately AUD$40.00 per person

Meals: Fresh food is prepared where possible, we endeavour to provide a healthy and varied menu. Breakfast is continental style, including toast, cereals, tea and coffee and fruit juice. Lunch is picnic style, including cold meats, salad or sandwiches and fruit. Dinner includes hot main meals and dessert.

Vehicles: Tours are conducted in custom built 4×4 vehicles and rugged safari coaches. The vehicles range in size from 5 to 16 seats, with forward facing seats, air conditioning, stereo and PA systems, two way radios and satellite phones ensuring a comfortable tour with medical assistance in remote areas.

Glass Bottom Boat Ecology Cruise: View the delicate coral gardens and many colourful fish from the glass bottom boat or take the plunge and snorkel with turtles, giant cod, giant clams and exotic reef fish.

ATV Quad Bikes: A leisurely, fully escorted ride on all terrain bikes, your guide will take you riding on secluded beaches for some snorkelling. Equipment supplied.

Ningaloo Reef Dive: Experience the rich marine life and encounter tropical reef fish, dolphins, turtles, dugongs and manta rays. All dives supervised by either a Dive Master or Instructor. There is an option to go out and snorkel only for this 4hrs, however the water is deep.

Ningaloo Kayak and Snooba Adventure: Snooba Dive (40mins) on the outer reef. All equipment and wetsuits supplied. Kayak Adventure (2 hour), snorkel equipment and wetsuits supplied. Photographs are taken of you which you can then purchase on CD for an additional cost.

Schedule

Departure Point: Tour departs from the Tourist Coach Stop, Wellington Street, Perth
Departure Time: Meet the tour at 7:00am for 7:15am departure.
Return Details: Tour concludes in Perth at approximately 5:30pm on Day 7.

For additional information and bookings GO HERE!

COMPARE AND BOOK FROM 135+ HOTEL DEALS IN PERTH, AUSTRALIA

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