Author Archives: Caliope Sage

Water Skiing in Bentota -To Ride the Silver Tipped Waves in Glee

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Sri Lanka is a land like no other, where beauty lurks in every corner and the smiles of the locals greet you every step of the way. Warmth of the people of the land beautifully compliments the delights that await those who step in to the magical shores that surround the little island and perfect memories are created day in and day out.

The Southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka is one of the more popular destinations among the many tourists who visit the country all year round. The golden beaches that fringe the great blue waters, lying invitingly under the golden Asian sun is indeed an indulgence not to be missed. Out of the little towns that are dotted along the shore in down south, Bentota is a popular destination, given the plethora of luxury resorts in Bentota, such as Avani Bentota, as well as the magnificence of the beauty that is so richly prevalent there.
For those who love to feel the fury of the ocean waves, Bentota offers many options to battle against the winds and tide. With a sunny weather all year round, this place is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving as well as water skiing. Many tourists can be seen along the shores, blissfully soaking up the scorching noon day heat as they are lying on their backs and listen to the hoarse voices of the sea, or riding the silver tipped waves of the ocean.

Bentota is favorable for wind surfing from December to March. Hence many water sports fanatics head on down to the little town to have the time of their lives on a ski board as they splash across the polished ocean waves. There are many water sport centers that facilitate the sport while many hotels in the vicinity too provide assistance and equipment needed to engage in the sport with ease and safety. The thrill of riding the beautiful turquoise waves in to the hearts of the ocean to which they lead under the golden noon day sun is bliss and happiness indeed, to those who know the joys of the sport.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.Google+

Green Dragon Temple

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Nestled in the serene suburbs of Xian, The Green Dragon temple is a famed Buddhist temple build in the Tang Dynasty. The Green Dragon temple was established in 528AD under the name Linggan Temple, and changed its name to Green Dragon (Qinglong) Temple in 711AD. The Green Dragon temple was famously known as a favored destination for Chinese and Japanese monks to learn and practice Buddhism. The sacred Green Dragon temple is considered to the ancestor temple of the Tantra sect of Japanese Buddhism, as it was famous in the early 9th century when large quantities of Japanese monks were sent to China to study Buddhism. The Green Dragon temple was destroyed in the Song Dynasty, and was reconstructed in the 20th century.

Citadines Xingqing Palace Xi’an offers the perfect accommodation within the vicinity of the Green Dragon Temple while providing all comforts of a modern service apartment. Xian, one of the oldest cities in China offers over 3000 years of cultural history and ancient Chinese heritage making it the perfect holiday location for tourists looking to explore and experience the vibrant Chinese culture and traditions.

The Green Dragon temple is set amidst breathtakingly beautiful cherry blossom trees during the months of March and April, which offers the perfect touch of beauty to the calm and relaxing temple grounds. The temple’s culturally rich architecture and ancient designs dating back to the Tang Dynasty exude an ambience of peace and comfort enriched by the temple’s serene surroundings. The temple is very popular among tourists looking to experience and explore ancient buildings, architecture and local Buddhism culture in Xian prevalent during the Tang Dynasty.

The Green Dragon temple’s serenity and atmosphere of calm & relaxation make it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Thus, a visit to the Green Dragon temple is one that should not be missed by anyone searching for a secluded hideaway.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.Google+

Old Summer Palace Beijing, a lovely pleasure garden

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The Old Summer Palace in Beijing, known as the Yuanmingyuan or the Garden of Perfection and Light is a well-known cultural site and tourist attraction in the Chinese capital. Today, only the ruins of the imperial palaces and pavilions may be seen, but the site remains a tranquil location ideal for spending leisure hours.

Initially, the location was developed in 1709 during the time of rule of Emperor Kangxi, a Qing Dynasty ruler. In the course of the subsequent 150 years, the site was developed as a secluded pleasure garden of the Chinese emperors, extending over an area of no less than 350 hectares. The garden may be seen to consist of three distinct sections, namely Yuanmingyuan, Changchunyuan (or the Garden of Eternal Spring) and Wanchunyuan (which translates as Garden of Blossoming Spring).

There are numerous picturesque and attractive locations within the gardens, which include rocky hillocks, ponds and streams as well as rare flowers and grasses obtained from different regions of China. The park is considered to exemplify the treasured art of ancient Chinese landscaping and gardening.

On the other hand, the proud creation that once stood here also demonstrated features which set it apart from other royal Chinese gardens. Notably, it also included Western style architecture amidst the typically Chinese setting, making it a harmonious blend of diverse elements. At the height of its glory, it was known as the ‘Versailles of the East’, a phrase which is suggestive of the garden’s splendour. Additionally, the Old Summer Palace also featured an extensive museum devoted to the imperial legacy, which included numerous cultural artefacts, valuables and books.

Today, the ruins which may be seen are suggestive of the former splendour of this imperial leisure garden. Visitors may also see a pictorial reconstruction of the site within the exhibition chamber. Some of the scenic locations have been repaired, making them delightful places to unwind and relax. Visiting the Old Summer Palace is always a memorable experience.

If you are planning a visit to the country and are considering greater China hotels to host your visit, an excellent selection would be the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels China. These fine hotels in China offer well-appointed accommodations and attentive service.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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