Situated between Nuwara Eliya and Haputale, The Horton Plains National Park is a highland plateau lying at an elevation of 2100 m. Containing the island’s highest plains, the park is characterized by a unique mountainous forest and eco system not found anywhere else in Sri Lanka. The virgin cloud forest and deep red Rhododendron flowers that blossom abundantly in the mist covered highlands gives an aura of mystic beauty to Horton Plains. The sanctuary is also home to a varied animal life including the much sought but elusive leopard. Grazing herds of Sambar are a common sight on the plains while the cries of monkeys are often heard though the animals themselves are rarely seen. In addition, many endemic and rare amphibian and reptile species are also a part of the region’s rich biodiversity.

Horton Plains contains one of Sri Lanka’s most thrilling sights; World’s End. The sheer escarpment falls dramatically perpendicular for 884 m providing a panoramic view of southern Sri Lanka. Towards noon, the rising mist obscures the vision from World’s End creating the impression that the visitor is truly perched at the end of the world. A lesser escarpment known as Small World’s End precedes the former providing a glimpse of the grand sight in store. Another popular attraction in the park is Baker’s Falls, which is located somewhere towards the middle of the trek and makes for an ideal resting place for a picnic before you set off again.

The reserve is of immense scenic and ecological value while its many attractions render a visit to the site, creating an adventurous and rewarding experience. Hence, the mysterious Horton Plains has proven to be one of the most magnetic tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. A sense of magical charm pervades the region rendering a stay in Nuwara Eliya the source of a lifetime of special memories. Choosing to lodge at a Nuwara Eliya luxury hotel will undoubtedly add a touch of colonial elegance and comfort to a visit to the city. Located in a serene environment with a sweeping view of the golf links, Jetwing St. Andrew’s provides its guests with premier facilities coupled with warm Sri Lankan hospitality. Its stately charm and convenience adds a visit to the Garden City of the island a truly enchanting experience.

Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

About the Author:

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - The Many Attractions of Horton Plains

Brazil is a sprawling and varied country. With an area of just over 3 million square miles, Brazil occupies nearly half of the South American continent. Brazil tours allow you to see more of what the country has to offer by taking you to see several of its sights and landmarks during your holidays in Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is the first city that springs to mind when you think of Brazil. A city of carnival and sunshine, Rio is an essential first stop on Brazil holidays for getting a sense of Brazilian city life. Overlooking the city is Rio's foremost landmark, the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, with his arms stretched wide in a benevolent welcoming gesture. A day trip up Corcovado Mountain, at 700 metres, will allow you to see the city from the statue's vantage point. The statue itself is thirty eight metres tall and not only offers Rio's citizens its obvious Christian symbolism but is also is a figure of inspiration for all.

On the way up to Corcovado's peak, your Brazil tour will take you through the Tijuca Forest, a National Park that is home to many threatened species of South American flora and fauna. What is unusual about the forest is that it was replanted by hand in the 1800's to repair the damage done by clearances for coffee plantations.

Another remarkable mountain in Rio is Sugarloaf Mountain, so named because of its unusual conical shape. There is a cable car to take you to the top where you'll be able to take some stunning photos on your Brazil holidays.

Rio overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and you can enjoy the water at the famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. You might also want to see the Sambadrome, an immense and impressive stadium designed specifically to host the colourful parades of lavishly costumed dancers during carnival time.

As well as Rio's markets, botanical gardens and historical streets, there's also the saltwater lake called Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. However, the next stop on many Brazil tours will take you to see a watery landmark on a different scale.

Iguacu Falls

Almost a thousand miles to the west of Rio, beyond Sao Paulo, are the Iguacu Falls on the border with Paraguay and Argentina. The falls stretch beyond Brazil across Argentina's north east border and you have the opportunity to explore the falls from both the Brazilian and the Argentine sides of the border on most Brazil tours. This location also provides the opportunity to stand on the point where the three countries meet.

The falls are comprised of a series of 275 smaller falls cascading over a stretch of almost two miles. This is a beautiful spot to see during your Brazil holidays, with established viewpoints and walkways for exploring the canyon cut by the water of the Iguacu River. In the forests of the National Park around the falls, a protected UNESCO world heritage site, there are a hundred and sixty species of birds to be found. There are also boat tours of the falls, and white water rafting for the brave.

Buzios

After Iguacu Falls, and depending on your interests, many Brazil tours will return to Rio, from where you will travel a further few hours to the pretty coastal resort of Buzios. This has been voted one of the most beautiful areas in the world. With its stylish boutiques and restaurants, and scores of stunning beaches, you can conclude your Brazil holidays by enjoying the country's famous beach culture, sunning yourself on its golden sands.

It's simply cannot be denied that the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia is a magnificent holiday destination for people of all ages. In fact, there's an abundance of things to do, apart from visiting one of the many attractions, and apart from lounging on the spectacular white sandy beaches. When you're not out and about, you can of course immerse yourself in the wonderful culinary experience which the Sunshine Coast to offer.

One of the first things you'll notice when eating on the Sunshine Coast, is that the food is always 100% fresh, and prepared to the highest standards, not to mention that some of the local fare is simply mouth-wateringly delicious. Another quality which so many tourists find appealing, is that local dishes can be sampled at many fine establishments, many of which are within walking distance from your Sunshine Coast accommodation.

Families who would like to combine a fun day out with a tasty eating experience will find strawberry picking to be a delightful day out, where they can get to taste some of the finest local fruit. Simply gather up your tray and begin filling it with the biggest, juiciest, and sweetest fruit you can lay in your hands on. You can be rest assured that strawberry picking can provide you and your family with hours of delicious fun and plenty of tasty Sunshine Coast strawberries. Of particular interest to holiday makers, is the Palmview Strawberry Fields, in that it has its own visitor centre, gift shop, café and a playground where the kids can burn themselves out.

If picking strawberries isn't exactly your cup of tea then you may find you'll enjoy a day out at Yandina's Ginger factory, where you'll get to learn everything there is to know regarding ginger. Visitors also get to enjoy a lovely historical train ride at the factory, and this together with the available tours, makes a visit to the ginger factory an event not to be missed. Of course, don't make a mistake you'll live to regret by forgetting to buy some ginger flavored delights while you're there.

If you're a true ginger fanatic and you'd like to be more involved, you could even try a class at the Buderim Ginger Cooking School which is situated at the actual factory. There's no need to be concerned whether or not you can cook, because irrespective of whether you're a beginner, or whether you're a master chef, the school offers various classes.

Of course not everybody wants to learn how to cook food, and some may prefer simply eating it instead. If you fall into this category then be sure that you try Beefy's meat pies. These have won several gold medals, and not without reason either. In fact, you'd be surprised at just how famous they have become. If you really want to sample their best, then make sure you try the Chunky Steak Pie because it's considered to be one of the top ten pies in Australia. With so many people enjoying their pies, Beefy's are so confident that you'll love yours, they even guarantee it. In fact, if you don't like your pie they'll give you a refund and another pie.

Eating on the Sunshine Coast doesn't mean you only need to eat local fruit, vegetables, and meat; but instead, you should also head over to Cocoa Chocolat in Eumundi. This is one chocolate factory which will have you wondering around in a daydream as you soak up the wonderful aromas. To tempt you even further, the gift shop is separated from the actual factory by glass windows so that you can see exactly how the treats are being made. Of course, before you start heading back to your Sunshine Coast accommodation, don't forget to stock up with enough treats. After having satisfied your taste buds with so much wonderful food, you can be rest assured you're going to have a good night's sleep.

The local food which is in such abundance on the Sunshine Coast bears testimony to the quality of Southern Australia's produce, and this is why eating in this region can be such a memorable experience. A visit to Mooloolaba will also ensure that you get to feast on some of the finest seafood you can imagine. Whatever your taste, you can be rest assured that you'll find so much to enjoy when you're on the Sunny Coast.

The well known mountain areas of the Alps, the Dolomites and the Sierra Nevada in Spain are all options for the experienced walker. For those seeking a less challenging option there are many alternatives, especially on some of the main holiday islands.

Walkers on the island of Menorca have always been able to enjoy the wonderful countryside for walking but now the completion of a new footpath that circumnavigates the whole island brings a wider choice of routes. For walkers, Menorca has of course some fantastic coastal scenery, with wonderful beaches dotted along its coastline, providing picturesque spots to rest and take a picnic. Menorca is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve area and some conservation is an important aspect. Preservation of flora and fauna as well as certain wildlife area is evident. The new coastal walkway around the island is called the Cam?e Cavalls and is a 180 kilometer long medieval route that was used for communication when the island had to be defended from invaders. The path has now been completely signposted and new fences erected to make it safer and easier to navigate for walkers.

The new pathway initiative follows an eight year process to make the land public property and a two million euro investment to prepare it. As well as walkers, cyclists and horse riders can also share and enjoy the route. Summer temperatures on Menorca can be very high so the best time to undertake a walk on the pathway is probably springtime or late Autumn. There are several companies that offer guided walks on the island and some will also arrange accommodation so that walkers can tackle the route in stages without having to worry about carrying their luggage.

The interesting aspect to walking on the island of Madeira is a unique network of water channels that were built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century to form an irrigation system channelling water to the agricultural parts of the island. These waterways also now provide a huge network of walking routes that bring large numbers of people to the island from all over the world. The waterways transport water from the wetter, higher regions in the north of the island through valleys, gorges and even tunnels to most of the rest of the island. Development of the system carried on for hundreds of years with additions being made as recently as the 1940's. In total, the levada network is made up of over 1300 miles of channels, including some 25 miles of tunnels. There are several levedas that are particularly favoured by walkers including the Levada do Caldeirao Verde. The terrain for walkers is a mix of unchallenging yet pleasant forest walks right through to a series of challenging routes that traverse steep hillsides and a few of the tunnels, for which local knowledge and assistance is recommended.

The island of Mallorca also has some wonderful walking terrain in the Tramuntana Mountains in the north west. The port of Soller is a perfect location for hikers to base themselves as it gives quick access to the higher peaks of Puig Major as well as the more gentle routes to the south of the town. The area around Lake Cuber, one of two huge reservoirs in the peaks, is also a big favourite with walkers. Several tunnels make interesting options, as does a visit to the monastery at Lluc or a walk down the Torrent de Pareis to the beach at Sa Colobra.

Finally the Greek island of Crete provides another location for warm weather walking. Unlike many other Greek islands, Crete has many more green areas and a choice of inland and coastal areas to explore. Traversing the island is a large network of tracks and trails, used in the past by shepherds and farmers but now largely redundant due to an improved road network. This has left them free for walkers to enjoy and a myriad of documented routes use them for out and back, circular and place to place routes. Getting prepared and setting off wit ha guide book is easy or opt to go with an organised walking tour. There are a number of walking companies on the island including a few run by individuals from the UK. Many will know the Gorge of Samuria, which is a great route but can become busy due to its popularity. It is only open during certain parts of the year and is now patrolled by rangers who ensure everyone gets through safely. Walkers start inland at Omalos and walk the 13 kilometers downhill to the coast at Agia Roumeli.

Choosing where to go for that dream two weeks of relaxation in the sun is never an easy decision to make. With so many of the world's coastal destinations now long-exposed to the rigours of tourism, it is getting increasingly difficult to find that idealistic, tropical paradise that countless travel brochures' pages are adorned with.

However, such destinations do still exist and it's just a case of knowing where to look. For unspoilt havens, few places can match the tropical island paradise of Mauritius, a small island nation off the coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean. The picture-perfect scenery of Mauritius is the stuff of dreams and no words can really do justice to the plethora of coral reefs, lagoons, sandy beaches and forested mountains that are located throughout this tiny, tropical hideaway.

Mauritius is the perfect place for romantic getaways, with miles of white sandy beaches to stroll along and delicious cuisine on offer across the island.

It's not all about kicking back and relaxing though. Île aux Cerfs (French for 'Deer Island') is another mini tropical island off the coast of Mauritius, offering up a whole host of water sports and there are a number of amazing scuba diving sites dotted around the coast, with an array of sea-life and coral reefs providing the perfect scenery for those keen to venture beneath the ocean. Île aux Cerfs is also home to a stunning 18-hole golf course, which is set among sea inlets and against a breathtaking background of trees, mountains and lush vegetation.

The main focal point for visitors is in the northern part of the island in the Grand Bay area. Many hotels, beaches restaurants and nightspots are situated in this region. Although Mauritius is generally not a busy place, the village of Grand Bay is the closest thing the island offers in the way of nightlife and there are a few bars and clubs open late for those wanting to party into the small hours.

It's probably worth pointing out too that Mauritius is notable as being the home of the legendary dodo, a bird that has been extinct since the 17th century, following the influx of foreign visitors who hunted it for food. Mauritius is still proud of its indigenous feathered friend and today it can still be seen on the island's coat of arms.

Given that the island is one of the world's genuine tropical island paradises, Mauritius flights are plentiful and arrive at the main international airport form a number of key locations in Europe, Africa, Asia and Australasia. Flights to Mauritius take around twelve hours from London.

For tropical delights, Mauritius is up there with the best of them. Its diverse scenery, vast sandy beaches and activity-rich opportunities make it the perfect place to find paradise.

The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.

The images conceived when you think of Cambridge may be along the lines of a quaint, picturesque town filled with studious individuals intent on furthering their knowledge, rolling hills and gorgeous scenery. It's a peaceful town focussed on the finer pursuits - but that doesn't mean Cambridge doesn't have its livelier side.

Stacked with a plethora of annual, exciting festivals, Cambridge is as diverse and cultural as the best of British towns and cities - and it is well worth visiting during the festive periods that take place throughout the year. For example, Midsummer Fair - one of the most ancient fairs currently running in the country - is a yearly funfair where adults and children alike can enjoy excellent fairground rides, stalls, attractions and entertainments. It used to be a medieval fair, but has since lost its focus on this. However, the fair's medieval roots are still visible today in the adjoining market that takes place alongside the more carnivalesque activities.

For music fans, there's plenty to choose from. Strawberry Fair takes place on the first Saturday of June and is a brilliant family day out. With free entry, families can head to the fair to enjoy plenty of music and a wealth of children's activities to keep the kids entertained all day.

Alternatively, Cambridge Folk Festival draws thousands to the town every year as music fans flock to one of the biggest folk music festivals in the country. With a vast diversity of folk music from around the world, the Cambridge Folk Festival is a must for anybody interested in traditional and contemporary cultural music - not to mention the various events and attractions that occur alongside this esteemed festival.

The Cambridge Film Festival is another popular event, which takes place in September every year and is considered to be one of the UK's most quality film festivals. Film buffs need barely move a muscle to take in some of the most recent arthouse films, as well as to enjoy old favourites with family and friends.

Finally, ale fans rejoice as the Cambridge Beer Festival takes place in May - understandably an incredibly popular event. Now over 30 years old, the Cambridge Beer Festival is one of the biggest beer festivals in the country and allows visitors to sample a huge selection of exciting and exotic ales and beers from the biggest brewers to the smallest manufacturers.

There's a festival for everyone in Cambridge, making a stay in hotels in Cambridge even more worthwhile. Whatever your area of interest, Cambridge has the event to suit, whether you prefer cutting edge cinema or discovering your new favourite tipple.

With a history stretching back over 6,000 years and home to the last remaining monument of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt is an awe-inspiring country to behold. Famed for its colourful festivals, historic sites of interest and intriguing heritage, it is one of the most interesting and exciting destinations around, and one that undeniably deserves to be visited.

Located in North Africa, with the Mediterranean Sea at its north border and the Red Sea to its east, the country boasts a favourable climate, with year round sunshine on tap. The River Nile, regarded as the longest in the world, runs through the country and is of major importance to the Egyptian people. Many of Egypt's most significant sites are also located along its banks.

The largest city in Egypt, and also its capital, Cairo, is one such place. Home to a wealth of lively markets, cultural attractions and historical monuments, it is a veritable cultural feast for any traveller that happens upon it. To highlights are The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities and Khan El-Khalili, which is a famous souk in the Islamic district of Cairo.

It is also near Cairo that the celebrated Giza Pyramid Complex can be found. Built in 25 BC, the pyramids were designed and named after three prominent Egyptian pharaohs: Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. One of Egypt's most popular attractions, the Great Pyramid of Giza, attracts thousands of travellers each year, who are all eager to take in the breathtaking sight.

To the east of the pyramids lies The Great Sphinx, a half-human, half-lion structure cited as the earliest known monumental sculpture. Measuring 73.5 metres in length, six metres in width and 20 metres in height, it is the largest monolith statue in the world and remains one of Egypt's most visited attractions after the Pyramids.

No visit to this ancient country would be complete without a trip to the ancient city of Luxor. Said to be the world's greatest open air museum, it is a vibrant and colourful hub, bursting with character and tradition. Divided into three distinct parts ' the city of Luxor itself and the towns of Karnak and Thebes ' it is the perfect place for getting a real flavour of Nile life.

To really make your trip memorable, why not take a trip in one of the hot air balloon rides offered? Not only will you get to enjoy a bird's eye view of the famous River, but it is also possible to take in the breathtaking panoramic vistas Luxor offers, as well as catching a glimpse of the spectacular ruins scattered around.

Egypt holidays are ideal for those looking to combine history and culture with luxury and relaxation and is a perfect destination to recharge the batteries.

Many people think of a holiday in Mauritius as a week of lying on a beach in the sun. While there is no doubt this thought is immensely appealing, some people may wish for something a little more exciting on their holiday. Mauritius also has a range of activities that cater to those who have a taste for adventure, with zip-lining, sub-scooters and a range of other exciting activities.

Ever considered an adventure holiday in an island paradise? Well look no further; Mauritius caters to all thrill-seekers. Your holiday in Mauritius could be the experience of a life time, as you engage in exciting watersports and zip through the trees, only to return after a day of excitement to your luxury Mauritius hotel. And for days when you don't feel like doing anything energetic, there is always the pearly-white beach and the sparkling Indian Ocean ready and waiting for you.

Under the Sea

Ever fancied riding a scooter under the sea? Well you could have your first experience on a Mauritius holiday. One of the most entertaining activities you can do in Mauritius is to go for a ride on a sub-scooter. Mauritius has introduced the world's first underwater scooter, where holidaymakers can scoot about in the Indian Ocean, three metres below the water's surface.

You are lowered into the water in a bubble, where you can breathe freely and feel safe in the knowledge that a trained diver is looking out for you. You will also be attached to a buoy bobbing on the surface, so your exact location is constantly clear. Scooting under the sea, you can watch the colourful Indian Ocean fish swim by, and feel like you're part of the marine life. Sub-scooting is definitely a different and exciting activity when on a Mauritius holiday and is a fantastic way to discover the underwater world if you are not a Scuba diver.

Zip-Lining Through the Forests

If you've ever had a fantasy of being like Tarzan and swinging your way through a forest of trees, zip-lining on your Mauritius holiday could be quite an experience. After a few days of relaxing on the beautiful beach and enjoying spa treatments at your Mauritius hotel, you can venture inland to a place called Cerfs Volantis, where a sugar-cane plantation awaits you.

Here, you can experience the rush of zipping through the trees, as the gurgling river and pretty waterfalls churn beneath you. Fully strapped and harnessed in, this sport is safe and fun, allowing you to discover Mauritius' inland beauty. As you zip through the trees and over the river, keep an eye out for beautiful places to swim. And when you have a rest between your zipping stints, you can swim in the river and beneath the sparkling waterfalls. After a day of excitement such as this one, your Mauritius hotel will be a welcoming thought, where you can sit at the bar as the sun sets over the ocean and relive the exciting stories of your day on holiday in Mauritius.