Posts Tagged ‘hot air balloon’

Checking the Ten Best Family-Friendly Attractions in Cairns

January 10th, 2012

When you visit Queensland’s Far North, you have to drop by at Cairns to check out the various family attractions and tourist destinations. The city was originally a mining town but it has emerged to become a tourism hotspot because of its favourable tropical climate. It also serves as a starting point for tourists and locals alike who want to check out the picturesque Great Barrier Reef. If you are not sure where to find the best attractions fit for your family then you have to check out the attractions search portal Odusee for more information.

There are many places to go and so many activities to enjoy when you visit Cairns. It is all about choosing the locale that suits your travel itinerary. If you think about it, there are many outdoor activities that you can have fun than in the comforts of your hotel. Go to the beautiful coral reefs, hike up to the rainforest, and hit the beaches. You will never run out of family fun attractions as long as you know what you’re looking for.

1. The Great Barrier Reef

No doubt about it, the Great Barrier Reef is the ultimate destination for local and foreign tourists who visits Cairns every year. Located approximately 45 minutes away from the city, families with older children will definitely enjoy diving near the reefs off the coast. Take underwater pictures of the amazing aquatic flora and fauna on either a diving or a snorkeling exploration.

2. Cairns Kart Hire Track

One of the most exciting and thrilling attractions for you and your family is taking a ride with a go-kart. If you truly feel the need for speed then this is one of the best family attractions in Cairns, Australia. Open for 7 days a week and even on nighttime, the 450-metre Cairns Kart Hire Track can accommodate passengers young and old.

3. Hot Air Balloon Adventure

Flying high up in the air can be exhilarating for people not afraid of heights. Aside from the feeling of getting in a lighter-than-air ride, passengers can enjoy the wonderful sceneries of Cairns all around. The perfect time to have this exciting ride is early morning or late afternoon so that you can catch up the best view of the sunrise and sunset.

4. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

If you want to know more about the Aboriginal culture, the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park is the perfect place to visit. Among the many family tourist attractions in the city, the visitors are treated to various cultural practices including the play about the bama with a traditional song and dance performance. Its Kuranda dance theatre attracts a huge crowd regularly because of the number of indigenous Australians employed.

5. Fishing in Cairns

With its wonderful fishing areas, Cairns is the perfect place to enjoy a quality time with family and catch Black Marlin, Mangrove Jack, Flathead, Sweetlip, or Jungle Perch off the coast. If you are lucky, you might catch the elusive Barramundi.

6. The Skyrail

One of the hottest family attractions in Cairns is the amazing Skyrail that carries you and your family over the tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and gorges. You can even choose to combine trips of the Skyrail and the Kurranda Railway on the same day.

7. Paronella Park

Among the many Cairns attractions, the Paronella Park is one unique place to visit. Situated in the heart of the tropical Queensland rainforest, this castle was built by Spanish immigrant Jose Paronella during the 1930′s. It was since destroyed by fire and ravaged by floods and cyclones after Paronella’s death. Today, it serves as a perfect place for tourists who want to tour and explore the ruins.

8. Kuranda Railway

For about an hour and a half, the Kuranda Railway will take you to the tropical rainforest. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the whole trip. Marvel at the amazing sceneries, the beautiful waterfalls, and the local wildlife. » Read more: Checking the Ten Best Family-Friendly Attractions in Cairns

Hot Air Balloon Rides Across Leicestershire

November 3rd, 2011

By Eve Ashwell

Beautiful landscapes, timeless countryside and charming settlements are what make Leicestershire a region widely recognised for its beauty. There’s something for everyone, with the hustle and bustle of traditional market towns, to the distinct scenery of Charnwood Forest. A hot air balloon ride over Leicestershire provides the perfect chance to observe this county from a truly unique perspective, allowing you to take in the region in its full scenic glory.

One of the tremendous sights visible from the air is Stanford Hall. The stunning mansion was built in the 1690s for Sir Roger Cave and is still home to his descendants. It is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite examples of the architecture in the area. The property is set in acres of gardens and really is a must see for anyone in the area. Stanford Hall is a popular launch site in the county, allowing many people to enjoy the wonderful sights of Leicestershire from above.

Another of the outstanding views is Rutland Water, the largest man-made reservoir in Europe. It covers an astonishing 3,100 acres and has a 25 mile road circling the perimeter. It supplies the driest and most densely populated part of Britain, East Anglia, with the vast majority of its water supply.

As well as areas of tremendous natural beauty, these are the perfect locations to set off on your magical ballooning experience.

While you’re visiting the region, there are many other places to explore. The city of Leicestershire is a thriving city full of surprises. It boasts Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, as well as the National Space Centre to explore. There are over 150 interactive exhibits and at the time of writing, visitors can upgrade their ticket to an annual pass free of charge.

As well as the diverse, cultural city of Leicester, there’s also Melton Mowbray. This picturesque town is home to one of Britain’s favourite snacks, the pork pie. Leicester is also known for producing the world famous cheeses Stilton and Red Leicester. Be sure to taste some of the world’s finest dairy produce while you’re in the county. The county is also the home of two of Britain’s last homegrown vehicle manufacturers, Noble and Triumph.

Wherever you are in this stunning rural county, you will never be too far away from a dream balloon flight that will provide you with an airborne adventure, allowing you to experience the county in a way you’ll remember forever.