Boat Trips And Czech Cuisine: A Taste Of Prague’s Culinary Delights

BY  Sibashree Mar 11, 2026

My trip to Kandy was one of the best cultural experiences I had in Sri Lanka. From Kandy, I decided to further go for a wildlife safari in Kaudulla National Park.   I certainly could not miss watching the elephants, and more so, because unlike many rehabilitation centers, the elephants are not chained at the Kaudulla National Park.   Also, I was staying at Habarana, which is very close to the national park. So, traveling was easy for me.   Hi, in today’s guide, I will talk about my encounters with the most intelligent and empathetic animals in the world, the elephants in Sri Lanka.   However, before that,  I will share some essential details about visiting the National Park.    Where Is The Kaudulla National Park?   The Kaudulla National Park is located in the Polonnaruwa District of Sri Lanka. It is located at a distance of around 197 km from the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo.   Furthermore, the distance between Kandy and the Kaudulla National Park is around 122 km. Kandy, in the central province, is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.   Also, the major gateway near the Kaudulla National Park is Habarana in the Anuradhapura District. The distance between these two places is around 28 km.   In addition, thanks to the proximity to Habarana, the Kaudulla National Park is close to national parks such as the Kalawewa National Park and cultural and historical attractions such as the Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala Rock, and the Ritigara Forest Monastery.   How To Reach The Kaudulla National Park?   The Kaudulla National Park is well-connected to many major airports in Sri Lanka. However, the Sigiriya (GIU) Airport is the closest to the National Park, and the travel time from the airport to the national park is around 53 minutes.   The second-closest airport is Trincomalee, which is around 55 km away.   Also, if you are traveling from the Colombo Airport, around 157 km away, you have to first reach Habarana, and then you can travel to the Kaudulla National Park.   How To Reach The Kaudulla National Park From Habarana?   Buses, taxis, and tuk-tuks are easily available from Habarana to Kaudulla National Park. You will get a bus once a day from Habarana, and the bus to Gayola is run by the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB ICT).   It takes around 19 minutes to cover the journey. Moreover, you can contact +94 112 581 120 to know about the journey and ticket prices.   Furthermore, you will get a private taxi from Habarana, and the cost is around INR 240 or 680 LKR.   What Is The Best Time To Visit The Kaudulla National Park?  August to December, or the dry season, is the best time to visit the Kaudulla National Park.   It is the best season because the elephants gather here in the dry season in search of water. They migrate here from the nearby national parks.   Furthermore, in a day, early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit the national park, as wildlife sightings are at their maximum in these hours.   What Are The Kaudulla National Park Ticket Prices And Hours?  The Kaudulla National Park remains open from 6 AM to 6:30 PM. However, safaris in the national park are conducted early in the morning and late in the afternoon.   The safari tour tickets in this national park start from $95.   Moreover, once you pay for the safari tour, the entry fee to the park is also included. The ticket also includes a free pick up and drop off to and from the hotels of Minneriya, Habarana, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, and Kandalama.   Kaudulla National Park Jeep Safari Price And Timings  Safari Tours Timings Tour Price (5 PAX) Kaudulla Evening Safari 1 PM to 3:30 PM $95 for Adults $30 for Children (6-11 Years) Free for Children Under 5 Years  Kaudulla Morning Safari 6 AM to 9 AM $95 for Adults $30 for Children (6-11 Years) Free for Children Under 5 Years  Kaudulla & Minneriya Full-day Safari 6 AM to 7:30 AM $190  You can call the Kaudulla National Park contact number, +94776487757, to know more details about the safari ticket prices.   My Experience On The Kaudulla National Park Elephant Safari   The jeep drove down the extensive stretch of dirt road, and we entered the national park. Within minutes, our first encounter with the wildlife was a jackal.   As we continued through the main road, Kumar, our guide, kept showing us different monkeys, birds, and lizards.   I was loving the experience, apart from the dodges we had to do to get away from the low-lying branches of the trees.   After a drive for a while through the dense forest, we finally reached the grassland, and the Kaudulla Wewa Lake was the first major stop on the way.   1. Kaudulla Wewa Lake  After reaching the Kaudulla Wewa Lake, the first thing that caught my eye was the branch of an old tree. It resembled a telegraph pole, and one member of our safari group also mistook it for the same.   Furthermore, a majestic sea eagle was sitting on its top.   Along with this bird with its regal blue plumage, we also spotted storks, peacocks, and egrets.    Moreover, there was a buffalo that was having its munch time, and it was occasionally playing host to the tiny birds who were sitting on its back and head, making the entire scenario appear very playful.   2. Spotting The Elephants: The Dream Come True Moment   We were in the middle of the safari tour, and we were dying to see a glimpse of the majestic grey creatures.   Then suddenly, we reached an isolated wooded area where scores of elephants were waiting for us.   Also, they were busy having a bath, playing, rolling in the mud, and grazing. I had goosebumps as they are truly my spirit animals.    So, our jeep was around 20 meters away from them, and from a safe distance, each of us in the jeep captured as many photos as possible.   Moreover, the best thing was that the group had many calves, and it was nice to see them interacting with their mothers.   Animal Welfare In The Kaudulla National Park  Let’s be honest! I visited the Kaudulla National Park with some preconceived notions about animal welfare.   There are many videos and images on the internet showing how solitary animals such as leopards are targeted by photographers and safari tour conductors.   Moreover, you cannot surround a solitary creature with 20 jeeps and claim the preservation of animal welfare.   However, during my safari tour, I did not notice such a thing. The number of jeeps was decent, and each of the jeeps maintained a safe distance from the animals.   Moreover, the elephants were not chained, and they were roaming freely between the Kaudulla Park and other neighboring parks.   What Are The Other National Parks To Visit Near The Kaudulla National Park?   Along with the Kaudulla National Park, Habarana is also the gateway to the Minneriya and Kalawewa national parks.   1. Minneriya National Park   You can reach the Minneriya National Park with a short drive from the east of the Habarana town.   However, as I have already mentioned, you can take a combined safari tour of the Kaudulla National Park and Minneriya National Park.   Moreover, this national park, covering 90 square kilometers, has elephants and many other wildlife.   2. Kalawewa National Park   The Kalawewa National Park is home to the rare breed of tusked elephants in Sri Lanka.   Also, you have to take a drive of around 45 minutes west of Habaraba to visit the Kalawewa National Park.   Moreover, December to March is the best season to visit this national park.  

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 8, 2022

When you tell somebody, you are planning a trip to Italy. They always answer, “You must visit Florence in Tuscany!”. Florence is a typical river city developed on the two banks of the Arno, a city rich in history and art. Founded and inhabited by Italic people, Florence extends into a green plain, which is surrounded by hills dotted with cypresses, and olive trees, and also crossed by the Arno river. But above all: a city breathing art and culture everywhere!  No wonder Ginori 1735, the iconic porcelain brand, partnered with St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to present Café Ginori.  Café Ginori will blend the elegance of Italian cuisine with Italian artistry to make the tourism experience in Florence more happening.  So, what are the special attractions or the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany? This Tour and Travel blog has all the answers. Special Attractions Of Florence in Tuscany Many of the travelers are asking, is Tuscany in Florence? And what is there? In the past years, it has been awarded internationally as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You are standing in the middle cradle of the Renaissance. The city is the hub of extraordinary literary, artistic, and scientific development that took place in the 14th-16th centuries. To visit Florence in Tuscany really means jumping back in time!  Note: Appreciated more than anything else is the urban architecture and the presence of traces of a glorious past on every street corner;  with the most iconic places such as the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, etc. You Should Visit Florence For Its Art And Culture Known throughout the world for its artistic masterpieces, the colored marbles of the churches, and the high-sounding architecture, Florence is the city of the Medici, an ancient Tuscan family that became one of the most important dynasties in Italy and Europe. Nowadays, it is home to the most beautiful and important museums in the world; to name a few: the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace, Florence Cathedral and the Opera del Duomo museum, etc. Best Places To Visit In Florence, Tuscany, To Celebrate Its Art And Culture  With seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Florence sees tourism as a key resource. Further, its average annual tourism revenue is 300 million euros, establishing its position as a global travel destination.  Further, Florence has places like San Casciano dei Bagni within 200 km that are growing as tourism hubs individually.  San Casciano dei Bagni has won the laurel of “Best Tourism Village” from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This village is growing for its rich biodiversity and culture.  “San Casciano dei Bagni receiving the ‘Best Tourism Village’ recognition is a testament to the charm and authenticity of Italy’s smaller gems. These villages showcase the excellence of our craftsmanship, gastronomy, traditions, and culture, representing the heart of our national heritage.”Daniela Santanchè, Italian Tourism Minister Nevertheless, these are the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany.  1. Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo, with its bell tower, Baptistery, and cathedral, is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. Also, don’t forget to visit Ponte Vecchio.  2. Uffizi Gallery Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Uffizi Gallery houses the best collection of paintings and artwork from the medieval era to the modern period.  It was built between 1560 and 1580. 3. Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is the central square of Florence. It always has a lively ambiance and is Florence's epicenter of history and art.  4. Palazzo Vecchio Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Friday-Wednesday (9 AM to 7 PM), Thursday (9 AM to 2 PM) Palazzo Vecchio was built between 1299 and 1314 and was once the home and workplace of the Signoria of Florence.  5. The Accademia Gallery Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:15 AM to 6:20 PM, (Monday Closed) The Accademia Gallery is home to David by Michelangelo. It is the second-most visited museum in Florence after the Uffizi Gallery.  6. Pitti Palace Location: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Once a symbol of the power of the Medicis in Tuscany, Pitti Palace, or Palazzo Pitti, was also the seat of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine and House of Savoy.  7. Florence Cathedral Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or Florence Cathedral, is the Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Florence. The church, founded in 1296, was consecrated in 1436 by Pope Eugenio IV. It stands out with its huge dome structure.  8. Opera Del Duomo Museum Location: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 7 PM Built in 1891 and renovated in 2015, Opera Del Duomo Museum has the original artwork of the greatest artists and sculptors across seven centuries.  Here, you will find the work of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and many others.  9. Florence City Center Covering an area of 505 ha, the Florence City Center still has the 14th-century boundary walls.  Also, it is a symbol of the Renaissance during the early Medici rule.  10. Siena City Center Siena City Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Tuscan Hills. It is famous for its food scene and medieval buildings.  11. Pienza The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. It is also famous for its town-planning concepts during the Renaissance period.  12. San Gimignano San Gimignano, or the Town of Five Towers, will transport you to the medieval era. A preserved hill town, it also has Civic Museums, Contemporary art, and holy art.  13. Piazza Dei Miracoli (Pisa) The Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural wonder.  Further, located in a port city, the Piazza Dei Miracoli is an expression of human creativity.  14. Villas And Giardini Medicei  With 14 villas and gardens, Villas And Giardini Medicei is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany.  One of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany, Villas and Giardini Medicei, gives you an insight into the family that played prominent roles in the history of Italy and Europe during the 15th-18th century.  15. Val d’Orcia Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows the beauty of the countryside in Southern Tuscany. It is famous for its ecological uniqueness and stunning landscape. Culture Also Means Food And Wine But the only culture of Florence in Tuscany is not only art & history, and it means food and wine as well. Florence is a food city (delicious food), and you really can’t go there without trying out its local specials: that’s part of the experience!  Things you should try in Florence: 1. CHIANTI WINE  Chianti wine is a red blend of Tuscany that is made from Sangiovese grapes. These are common tasting notes which include different types of red fruits, smoke, dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, and game. Perfect for any kind of aperitivo admiring monuments or to accompany your dinners in Florence!  2. PICI Pici is a type of fresh pasta, similar to spaghetti, which is made with water, flour, and salt. A simple preparation, typical of the Tuscan culinary tradition: a "poor" dish linked to peasant cuisine. They can be combined with different condiments, thanks to their ability to adapt to various preparations: you can, in fact, make them with cheese and pepper, with crumbs, with garlic, with ragù, and in many other ways. Yummy!  3. FIORENTINA One of the most popular Italian steak dishes, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, is made of young steer or heifer that, in combination with the specific preparations. What preparations are turning it into one of the famous dishes in Tuscan cuisine.  It is a high cut, including the bone, and also cooked on the embers or on the grill, with a degree of "blood" cooking. Try to accompany this Florence in Tuscany special dish with your Chianti wine; a perfect combo.  Visit Florence For Its Welcoming People  Florence's inhabitants are something on their own; the Fiorentini are really strong characters, very different from the typical Italians international people know. The character of the Florentines is judged in a contradictory way. They are considered polite and honest, but their thriftiness, praised for being able to make money well, is often criticized. In Florence, people tend to say things to your face, and often when they do so, they are not too pleasant things. Don’t take it personally, it’s part of the culture! Learn some useful words:  Topping | Gnocchi Ganzo | Cool Grullo | A silly person Boncitto | A good guy Chetarsi | To be silent So Why Visit Florence? For many, Florence is a city they have only heard about, and important events and things to do, such as those in Rome or Venice, are not attributed to it. Wrong! Florence Is Full Of Things To Do!  Those who know the history of the world will know that Florence, with much of Italy, was the central hub of the Renaissance, and many works of art of the period can be found in this city. One of the most iconic sites that many are likely to recognize is the Duomo, a cathedral with a dome at its top.  The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence also exhibits Michelangelo's David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. When it comes to art and history, no one beats Florence for masterpieces! But there are also many fun activities for those who are not very interested in art. Tourists can take a day trip out of town and explore the wonderfully varied landscape of Florence in Tuscany. You can also taste local food and wines.  And events are also an option if you want to dive into the local culture for real. Music festivals, historical reviews, sports events, and much more! To learn everything about Florence and the reasons why you should visit it, learn more at www.ciaoflorence.it Reasons To Visit Florence In Tuscany |Ciao Florence Why should you visit Florence in Tuscany? Art, culture, food, and events. All you need to know about the city of Renaissance! Visit Ciao Florence. So when are you planning to visit Tuscany? Share your opinion through the comment sections. Additionals: Canary Wharf: A Mini-Guide For Your Next Visit Top 3-Week Itineraries For A Perfect Tour Of Europe: T AND TB

BY  Abdul Aziz May 31, 2023

Imagine being in the middle of the beautiful Dubai desert. Surrounded by substantial golden dunes, with the wind gently caressing your face as the sun goes down. Welcome to the fantastic world of Desert Safari Dubai, where every step is a thrilling and luxurious journey. This article looks at the magical world of Dubai's extravagant desert adventures, giving a taste of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Dubai desert is a natural wonder. It is a big area with rolling sand dunes that explorers worldwide want to explore. Its beautiful scenery and sand dunes that are constantly changing make for a magical desert adventure. The Dubai desert has something for everyone, from people who want exciting experiences to people who wish to find peace. On our desert safari in Dubai, you can get up close and personal with nature's beauty. We take you on an exciting trip through this beautiful area. In addition to the fantastic natural beauty, Dubai safari tours offer exciting and luxurious things to do. Relax in the quiet of the desert as you ride on the back of a beautiful camel and swing to the beat of the animal's feet. People who like to try new things can go sandboarding down smooth sand hills or watch beautiful birds of prey act in falconry, an old sport. We at Desert Safaris think that any desert safari in Dubai needs to be a little bit fancy. You can choose from several carefully put-together desert tour deals, which lets us tailor your trip to your needs. You can trust our hardworking, experienced guides will care for every part of your tour. Our luxurious camp setting and a fleet of high-end cars make for a luxury oasis in the middle of the desert. Under the night sky, you can eat fabulous Arabic food and watch engaging cultural performances. Exploring The Desert Safari 1. The Magnificent Landscape There are sand mounds as far as the eye can see, which is gorgeous. The rolling beauty of the landscapes that these tall sand dunes produce is stunning. As the sun's golden rays dance over the sand, they turn the desert scene into a beautiful work of art. The Dubai Safari desert is great for exciting desert trips because it is dangerous and beautiful.  The impressive things about the desert make the meeting even more special. Imagine standing atop a huge hill, with sand grains under your feet and the vast sky in front of you. The desert's vast beauty leaves a lasting mark on your heart. Because the wind always moves in different ways, each trip to the desert is different and beautiful. The Dubai desert is matchless to another place to go on a desert adventure, whether you want peace or an adrenaline rush. 2. Unforgettable Activities On a desert safari in Dubai, you can do more than look at the beautiful scenery. You can also do exciting and luxurious things. Dune bashing is a fantastic way to drive off-road through the vast sand dunes of the desert. Fasten your seatbelts and hold on tight while our skilled drivers drive 4x4 cars over rough terrain. Do well at each hill and feel the rush of energy as you race over the sandy playground. Camel riding is like going back in time and is excellent for people who like to take their time. As you move deeper into the desert, you get on the back of a royal camel and rock to the beat of the desert. Simultaneously, as you walk along the grassy paths, the quiet of the desert is all around you. As you ride these beautiful animals through the desert, you'll feel like you're in Arabia. Desert vacations are all about luxury and beg alone. Our company offers personalized trips to fit the wants and hobbies of each customer. Our soft camp sets will be a delicious place to rest when exploring the desert. Gourmet food that will make your mouth water, cold drinks, and soft chairs to sit back and relax in. You planned the trip carefully for the right mix of luxury and adventure. 3. Cultural Immersion A desert safari in Dubai is not just about the landscapes and activities; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's rich culture. Unparalleled Luxury: Your Company's Desert Safari Dubai Tours  Tailored Experiences At Dubaidesertsafarigroup, we know that every person who comes to the UAE for a holiday has different needs and wants. Because of this, we offer custom desert safaris where every detail is changeable to fit your needs. You can make your trip do your hobbies, plan, and cash by choosing from different trip packages. Depending on what you want, our staff will work with you to plan a desert tour that is both exciting and relaxing. Our tour packages include everything from half-day trips to camping in the desert for the night. You can make your trip fit your interests by choosing from dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and falconry, among other things. Our desert adventure trips are open enough to suit single tourists, families, and big groups. World-Class Service and Amenities We at Dubaidesertsafarigroup want to ensure you have the best service and comfort during your desert adventure. Our trip through the desert is on a lot of luxury. We're happy to serve you meals that will make your mouth water and fill you up. Under the stars, you can eat as much as you want while watching engaging cultural performances showing the area's rich history and practices. We want your desert trip with us to be the most significant thing you've ever done. Testimonials And Reviews 1.      "Dubaidesertsafarigroup offers the most luxurious and personalized service I've ever had on a desert tour. Everything about our stay was just right. On our desert safari in Dubai, we had the best time ever. USA; John 2.      "Dubaidesertsafarigroup's careful planning and excellent service made our desert safari tour an event we will never forget. The guides knew what they were doing and ensured we were always comfy. The best parts of the trip were the luxurious rooms and food. Quickly recommended! Sarah from the UK The best things people have said about us in these reviews motivate us to give excellent service. Conclusion In conclusion, a desert safari in Dubai is the best way to have a luxurious and unique experience. The Dubai desert is like no other, with amazing views and exciting things to do that promise excitement and relaxation. At Dubaidesertsafarigroup, we love making trips based on your hobbies and needs. Our custom desert tours let you choose the activities, length of the journey, and luxury amenities that are best for you. We ensure that every part of your trip goes smoothly, whether you want a wild group adventure or a romantic getaway. Our services and equipment are the best in the business, making us stand out. We make sure your trip is fun and safe by giving you knowledgeable guides, high-end transportation, and comfortable places to stay. Under the moon and stars, you can stuff your face with excellent food and taste the foreign flavors of Arabia. On one of our desert adventure trips, you can show your friends and family a taste of culture and luxury. You can't pass up the chance to go on a desert adventure alone. Book a trip with Dubaidesertsafarigroup right now to see the beauty of the Desert Safari Dubai. For a unique desert experience, try sandboarding, riding a donkey, or dune bashing. Read Also : 10 Best Places To Travel In January – Travel Guide 2022 A Complete Guide To West Beach 10 Best Places To Travel In August – Travel Guide 2022