#14 Days Itinerary to Sri Lanka

[emiratesvisaonline01]

Emirates Visa from Sri Lanka: Application Details & Process

Traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an exciting opportunity for many Sri Lankans, whether for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends. However, securing a visa can seem daunting. This blog will provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply Emirates visa from Sri Lanka, outlining the types of visas available, the application process, required documents, and tips for a smooth experience.

Types of Emirates Visas

It's critical to comprehend the several Emirates visa categories that Sri Lankans might apply for before beginning the application process:

Tourist Visa: Perfect for tourists or people traveling for fun. There are two types of visas available: 30-day and 90-day.

Transit Visa: Usually good for up to 96 hours of stay, this visa is intended for visitors passing through the United Arab Emirates.

Visit Visa: For travelers paying visits to relatives or friends who live in the United Arab Emirates. Although it is usually good for thirty days, this visa can frequently be extended.

Business Visa: Intended for tourists on business visiting the United Arab Emirates for meetings or conferences.

Application Process

The application process for an Emirates visa can be completed online or through a local UAE embassy or consulate. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying online, which is the most convenient method.

Step 1: Select your country

Go to our Website Emirates Visa Online. Select your country of residence, Like choose "Sri Lanka" from the list.

Step 2: Determine the Visa Type

Identify the type of visa that matches your travel purpose. If you’re visiting for tourism, a tourist visa for single or multiple entry is appropriate. For business-related visits, opt for a business visa which is a 14 Days UAE Visa from Sri Lanka. If you're just passing through the UAE, a UAE transit visa which is for 48 or 96 Hour Layover Visa will be required.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Prepare the following documents, which are commonly required for Emirates Visa applications:

Passport Copy: A clear copy of your passport's biographical page.

Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo.

Application Form: Fill out the visa application form completely and accurately.

Proof of Travel: Flight bookings or travel itinerary.

Accommodation Details: Proof of where you will be staying in the UAE, such as hotel reservations.

Financial Proof: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

Visa Fee: Payment for the UAE Visa Application Fee.

Step 3:  Complete Your Application

Once you have completed the application form and gathered all necessary documents, submit your application through our portal. Verify again for any mistakes or information that is missing.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

After uploading your documents and completing the application, you’ll need to pay the visa fee. The kind and period of the visa affect the fees. Usually, credit or debit cards can be used to make payments.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once everything is completed and the fee is paid, submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number, which you can use to track your application status.

Step 7: Track Application Status

You can Check UAE Visa Status through the portal if it approved, pending or any or more details needed. Keep an eye on any updates or additional requirements.

Step 8: Wait for Processing

The processing time for an Emirates Visa varies depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. Typically, tourist visas are processed within 3 to 5 working days. But if you have any urgency you have an option you can get UAE Express Visa Service , it will help you to approve your visa within 4-24 hours. However, it's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates to account for any delays.

Step 9: Receive Your Visa

Once your Online application of Emirates Visa is approved, you will receive your Emirates Visa. If you applied online, you can download and print the visa from the e-Visa portal. Ensure that all details on the visa are correct before traveling.

Cost of a UAE Visa for Sri Lanka Citizens

The Emirates visa fees from Sri Lanka can vary based on the service provider and processing speed, and here is the overview of the price:  

If you apply for a standard visa, this visa will be processed within 72 days, and its valid time is 30 days 

Applying for a UAE Express Visa is processed within 24 hours. It is also valid for 30 days.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process of UAE Visa

Apply Early: To avoid any last-minute issues, apply for your visa at least a few weeks before your planned travel.

Double-Check Information: Ensure all the information provided is accurate and consistent with your passport. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.

Stay Updated: Visa policies can change, so it’s wise to check for the latest requirements on the official UAE government website or through your airline.

Consult a Travel Agency: If you find the process overwhelming, consider consulting a reputable travel agency. They can provide guidance and assist with the application.

Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, obtaining travel insurance is highly recommended. It can provide peace of mind and financial protection during your trip.

Conclusion

Applying for an Emirates Visa as a Sri Lanka citizen involves several steps, from determining the type of visa you need to submitting your application and waiting for approval. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can enhance your chances of a smooth and successful application process.

[monahan32-blog]

14 Days in Sri Lanka would be a great to enjoy a holiday. Sri Lanka has lots of things to see and visit in 2 weeks. If you are looking for 2 Weeks itinerary for Sri Lanka, connect with TripLankaTours.com to arrange your 2 weeks tour to Sri Lanka.

[nagsale]

15 Places You Shouldn't Visit Because You're Ruining Them

With aviation projected to double the subsequent 20 years, a number of the world's most beloved and well-traveled places are poised to become ruined by tourists. And while we're all for traversing the world and crossing bucket-list destinations off your list, we frequent fliers must believe the impact we've on fragile environments and native communities. So, in an attempt to be more conscientious travelers, we've rounded up the world's most at-risk destinations and all the stunning under-the-radar places you ought to go instead.

1 Cozumel, Mexico

The delicate reefs surrounding Cozumel, an idyllic island off the coast of the Yucutan Peninsula and a frequent stop on Caribbean cruises, are more fragile than ever, thanks to excess cruise liner activity and therefore the four million-plus tourists that arrive annually. In an attempt to guard Cozumel's fragile aquatic habitat, Mexico's National Commission of Natural Protected Areas implemented a short-lived ban on tourism to many areas of the Cozumel Reef park. As an alternative to Cozumel, bring your dive gear to Isla Mujeres, a sliver-size island off the coast of Cancun, where the water is crystal-clear and where you would possibly spot whale sharks and other aquatic creatures.

2 Everest, Nepal

The mighty Everest has never been more popular—and mountaineers and guides are saying that the results might be fatal. More and more inexperienced climbers are making the trip, resulting in overcrowded pathways even at 29,029 feet. Then there are environmental issues caused by such strong visitation, including the piles of garbage left behind on the paths and therefore the accelerated melting of glaciers. As an alternate adrenaline fix, climb a less trodden but no less challenging peak like Cho Oyu in Tibet.

3 Dubrovnik, Croatia

If Game of Thrones helped put the Croatian city on the map, it also contributed to the city's grave overtourism problem. within the city's old town, for instance, there are approximately 100 souvenir shops, 100 restaurants, and additional cash machines than Las Vegas. As a result of the congestion, the town is considering implementing a variety of bans, including a short-lived one that might prohibit new restaurants from having outdoor seating within the city's Old Town. We'd recommend supporting other Croatian towns like Cavtat and Zadar instead.

4 Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Home to a number of the richest biodiversity on earth, the Indonesian archipelago of Raja Ampat comprises quite 1,500 islands. In 2017, one among Raja Ampat's major coral reefs was irrevocably damaged when a cruise liner crashed into it, imperiling an already-sickly aquatic ecosystem. Scientists are now predicting it'll take quite a decade to heal the damaged reef. In the meantime, quell your insomnia on the Togean Islands, a constellation of 56 under-the-radar Indonesian islands where you'll swim, sunbathe, dive, and snorkel to your heart's content.

5 Iceland

With its otherworldly landscapes and road trip-friendly sights, Iceland is high on many travelers' lists. In 2018 alone, quite 2.3 million people made the trip; compare that to the 350,000 full-time residents on the island, and it's clear why the travel industry has voiced concerns over sustainability and environmental preservation. In 2017, the Environmental Agency of Iceland closed one among the country's biggest tourist attractions, the canyon of Fjaðrárgljúfur, after a huge influx of tourists. In an interview with CNN, Hannes Sasi Palsson, the owner of an Iceland tourism company said, "That a part of the country simply can't deal with all those stomping feet." to urge your fix of surreal landscapes, consider visiting a U.S. park-like Bryce Canyon instead.

6 Pig Beach, the Bahamas

The novelty of swimming with pigs draws thousands of tourists per annum to Big Major Cay, an uninhabited island in Exuma, the Bahamas. Sadly, the population of the feral pigs has significantly dwindled thanks to tourist misbehavior. In 2017, seven of the creatures died after being fed alcohol by tourists. Now, the amount of animals on the island hovers around 15. As an alternate itinerary, head to Nassau and check the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, an oceanfront resort with an on-site flamingo sanctuary.

7 Angkor Wat, Cambodia

In 1992, UNESCO officials put Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap on an inventory of endangered sites, citing destruction caused by illegal excavation and pillaging. After deeming the location "reasonably secure" in 2004, Angkor Wat was far away from the danger list— but archeological experts and tour operators claim the traditional temple complex remains in danger . on the brink of 2.6 million visitors visited the delicate site and temples like Phnom Bakheng are compromised due to heavy pedestrian traffic. rather than Angkor Wat, we recommend visiting the Banteay Chhmar ruins, a set of eight temples hidden within the Cambodian countryside that go back to the 12th century.

8 The Maldives

With each passing day, it looks like another new resort opens within the Maldives. The torrent of tourists, including rising sea levels and increased construction, is causing irreparable harm to the tropical paradise, including the loss of habitats of species, the disappearance of beaches, and therefore the destruction of coral reefs. In response, some hotels like Bayan Tree Vabbinfaru are raising awareness through coral rehabilitation programs—but responsible travelers trying to find beach bliss should consider Seychelles or Sri Lanka as alternative options.

9 Machu Picchu, Peru

Getting to the Lost City of the Incas, one among the new Seven Wonders of the planet, requires a four-day hike or taking a 3.5-hour train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. Despite the problem of reaching the Citadel, Machu Picchu has been suffering from overtourism, drawing quite a million tourists annually. As a result, a number of the sacred temples have even been damaged, forcing the govt to introduce measures like timed entry as to how to regulate the tourist flow. For travelers eager to discover ancient ruins within the Sacred Valley, other options are abundant, from Kuélap and Llactapacta to Choquequirao.

10 Venice, Italy

Rising water levels, unprecedented tourist numbers, and an influx of cruise ships are among the factors threatening the infrastructure of Venice, causing historic buildings to crumble and famous attractions, like St. Mark's Square, to flood. As to how to mitigate the damage, the govt has implemented short-stay visitation fees and other restrictions. For all of the culture with none of the crowds, consider other Italian cities like Lecce and Bologna.

11 Boracay, Philippines

The Philippine island of Boracay was dubbed the simplest island within the world by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2012. Fast-forward a few years and Boracay is now a textbook example of the consequences of overtourism. The once-crystal clear waters are crammed with green algae; the streets are suffering from trash; sewage was, until recently, being pumped into the ocean; and quite 70 percent of the coral cover has been destroyed due to unmonitored snorkeling. Give the island time to heal by instead visiting Siargao, a teardrop-shaped Philippine island known for its lush jungles and pristine beaches.

12 Santorini, Greece

This Greek island, known for its world-famous sunsets and volcanic cliffs, is additionally known for its tourists. within the popular summer months, Santorini sees quite 10,000 visitors per day. Those numbers have put significant strain on the island, from traffic jams and a spike in energy consumption to rising water levels. In an attempt to curb the consequences of overtourism, the govt has limited cruise liner numbers to eight,000 a day. If you're keen on living out your Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants fantasies, consider the lesser-visited Greek islands of Milos and Koufonisia.

13 Bali

Water shortages, plastic-filled beaches, and overall congestion are new realities of life on Bali, where tourism has taken a pointy increase following the island's starring role in Elizabeth Gilbert's 2006 travel memoir Eat Pray Love. Disrespectful behavior is additionally, sadly, an issue: tourists have posed inside sacred temples wearing bikinis. Do your part to bring the island back to its former self by choosing another Balinese island—say, the nearby paradise of Lombok—for your vacation plans.

14 Barcelona, Spain

In Barcelona, locals are taking to the streets to decry the consequences of overtourism on their city, which include lack of affordable housing, pollution, and street congestion and noise. Barcelona's mayor has taken a stand, restricting the number of cruise ships that are allowed to dock within the city and stalling the expansion of the airport. Other alternatives to busy Barcelona include San Sebastian and Cádiz, both of which are on the ocean and boast a wealth of cultural attractions.

15 Maya Bay, Thailand

At the peak of its popularity, Maya Bay, on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi Leh Island, saw quite 5,000 visitors per day. (Blame its appearance within the 2000 film The Beach, which depicted the isle's turquoise waters and limestone cliffs.) Strong visitation resulted in serious environmental damage: most of the island's coral died as a result. Since then, the Department of National Parks Wildlife and Plant Conservation has closed the bay, and it's projected to be off-limits to visitors until 2021. In the meantime, travelers should set their sights on lesser-known neighboring isles like Koy Yao Noi.

[emmablog23]

Heritage places

Sri Lanka's rich past has guaranteed that its legacy is preserved through a variety of techniques, including natural occurrences such as the Sigiriya Rock and Adam's Peak, as well as man-made monuments and temples. In these historical sites in Sri Lanka, the country's past is preserved with utmost care and zeal. Anyone visiting Sri Lanka Vacations should go to at least a handful of these places to have a better understanding of the country's rich culture and history! The Cultural Triangle, which features Sri Lanka's most famous huge dagobas and the ruins of ancient buildings in the ruined towns of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, allows visitors to enjoy these world heritage sites in a small area known as the Cultural Triangle. The impressive stairway to the temple at Dambulla and the sensual murals of celestial maidens at the palace on the cliff of Sigiriya are both included in Olanka Travels' Sri Lanka Two-Week Itinerary. In Dambulla, Jathika Namal Uyana is unquestionably unique among Sri Lanka's various attractions, except for Dambulla, which is the most famous place in the country. Jathika Namal Uyana has the dubious distinction of being Asia's largest ironwood forest, as well as Asia's largest rose quartz mountain. There are also the ruins of a Buddhist monastery, stupas and other monuments, as well as a small yet beautiful waterfall in the region. The Pidurangala Rock, like Sigiriya, is the most well-known of Sri Lanka's heritage sites. It's famous for the view from the top of the cliff, the white temple at the bottom of the cliff, and the massive reclining Buddha statue hidden beneath an ancient boulder. The Dalada Maligawa, or Sacred Temple of the Tooth, is located in Kandy, the hill country's former royal capital. It houses Buddha's sacred tooth relic. With its own architecture, art, and music, Kandy is a bastion of traditional culture. To learn about the country's colonial history, travel south to the Galle Fort, Asia's best-preserved Dutch fort. With 14 massive bastions, a grid system of streets, and some historic Dutch dwellings, the fort bustles with life, just as it did when Galle was the country's main port. It's just one of Sri Lanka's strangest sights. You can arrange  Sri Lanka Vacation Tours and spend your vacation days with your family or loved ones if you wish to tour the heritage sites.

[nicholassabalos]

Around the world in 113 days....

Holland America Line’s luxurious cruise ship Amsterdam is now nearly two weeks and 5,000 miles (8,000 km) into her almost-four-month annual World Cruise.

This is the scene by the aft pool as the great ship crossed the equator on 14 January 2018....leaving the northern hemisphere enroute her upcoming South Pacific island destinations....and endless adventures and discovery for her 1,200 passengers....including a handful of very lucky children.

                                              *          *          *          *

Have you ever dreamed of what a cruise-around-the-world would look like?

Here’s the itinerary for Amsterdam over the next few months....

Day       Date                                     Port 0      04 Jan 2018     Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA 1      05 Jan 2018     At Sea 2      06 Jan 2018     Georgetown, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands 3      07 Jan 2018     At Sea 4      08 Jan 2018     Puerto Limon (San Jose), Costa Rica 5      09 Jan 2018     Enter Panama Canal 5      09 Jan 2018     Cruising Panama Canal, Exit Panama Canal 5      09 Jan 2018     Fuerte Amador (Panama City), Panama 6      10 Jan 2018     Fuerte Amador (Panama City), Panama 7      11 Jan 2018     At Sea 8      12 Jan 2018     At Sea 9      13 Jan 2018     At Sea 10    14 Jan 2018     Cross the Equator 11    15 Jan 2018     At Sea 12    16 Jan 2018     At Sea 13    17 Jan 2018     At Sea 14    18 Jan 2018     At Sea 15    19 Jan 2018     Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, French Polynesia 16    20 Jan 2018     At Sea 17    21 Jan 2018     Avatoru, Rangiroa, French Polynesia 18    22 Jan 2018     Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia 19    23 Jan 2018     Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia 19    23 Jan 2018     Cook’s Bay, Moorea, French Polynesia 20    24 Jan 2018     Vaitape, Bora Bora, French Polynesia 21    25 Jan 2018     At Sea 22    26 Jan 2018     Avatiu, Rarotonga, Cook Islands 23    27 Jan 2018     At Sea 24    28 Jan 2018     Alofi, Niue 25    30 Jan 2018     Cross International Dateline 26    31 Jan 2018     At Sea 27    01 Feb 2018     At Sea 28    02 Feb 2018     Auckland, New Zealand 29    03 Feb 2018     Tauranga (Rotorua), New Zealand 30    04 Feb 2018     Napier, New Zealand 31    05 Feb 2018     At Sea 32    06 Feb 2018     Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand 33    07 Feb 2018     Scenic Cruising Fiordland National Park 34    08 Feb 2018     At Sea 35    09 Feb 2018     At Sea 36    10 Feb 2018     Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 37    11 Feb 2018     Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 38    12 Feb 2018     At Sea 39    13 Feb 2018     Hobart, Tasmania, Australia 40    14 Feb 2018     Hobart, Tasmania, Australia 40    14 Feb 2018     Port Arthur, Tasmania, Australia 41    15 Feb 2018     At Sea 42    16 Feb 2018     Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island, Australia 43    17 Feb 2018     Adelaide, South Australia, Australia 44    18 Feb 2018     At Sea 45    19 Feb 2018     At Sea 46    20 Feb 2018     Albany, Western Australia, Australia 47    21 Feb 2018     Fremantle (Perth), Western Australia, Australia 48    22 Feb 2018     Fremantle (Perth), Western Australia, Australia 49    23 Feb 2018     At Sea 50    24 Feb 2018     At Sea 51    25 Feb 2018     At Sea 52    26 Feb 2018     Benoa (Denpasar), Bali, Indonesia 53    27 Feb 2018     Benoa (Denpasar), Bali, Indonesia 54    28 Feb 2018     At Sea 55    01 Mar 2018     At Sea 56    02 Mar 2018     At Sea 57    03 Mar 2018     Puerto Princesa, Philippines 58    04 Mar 2018     At Sea 59    05 Mar 2018     Manila, Philippines 60    06 Mar 2018     Manila, Philippines 61    07 Mar 2018     At Sea 62    08 Mar 2018     Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China 63    09 Mar 2018     Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China 64    10 Mar 2018     At Sea 65    11 Mar 2018     At Sea 66    12 Mar 2018     Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam 67    13 Mar 2018     At Sea 68    14 Mar 2018     Singapore, Singapore 69    15 Mar 2018     Singapore, Singapore 70    16 Mar 2018     At Sea 71    17 Mar 2018     Phuket, Thailand 72    18 Mar 2018     At Sea 73    19 Mar 2018     At Sea 74    20 Mar 2018     Colombo, Sri Lanka 75    21 Mar 2018     At Sea 76    22 Mar 2018     At Sea 77    23 Mar 2018     At Sea 78    24 Mar 2018     Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles 79    25 Mar 2018     At Sea 80    26 Mar 2018     At Sea 81    27 Mar 2018     Andoany (Hell-Ville), Nosy-Be, Madagascar 82    28 Mar 2018     At Sea 83    29 Mar 2018     At Sea 84    30 Mar 2018     At Sea 85    31 Mar 2018     Maputo, Mozambique 86    01 Apr 2018     At Sea 87    02 Apr 2018     At Sea 88    03 Apr 2018     Cape Town, South Africa 89    04 Apr 2018     Cape Town, South Africa 90    05 Apr 2018     Cape Town, South Africa 91    06 Apr 2018     At Sea 92    07 Apr 2018     Walvis Bay, Namibia 93    08 Apr 2018     At Sea 94    09 Apr 2018     At Sea 95    10 Apr 2018     Luanda, Angola 96    11 Apr 2018     At Sea 97    12 Apr 2018     At Sea 98    13 Apr 2018     Cross the Equator 99    14 Apr 2018     At Sea 100  15 Apr 2018     At Sea 101  16 Apr 2018     Banjul, Gambia 102  17 Apr 2018     Dakar, Senegal 103  18 Apr 2018     At Sea 104  19 Apr 2018     Praia, Ilha de Santiago, Cape Verde 105  20 Apr 2018     At Sea 106  21 Apr 2018     At Sea 107  22 Apr 2018     At Sea 108  23 Apr 2018     At Sea 109  24 Apr 2018     At Sea 110  25 Apr 2018     San Juan, Puerto Rico 111  26 Apr 2018     At Sea 112  27 Apr 2018     At Sea 113  28 Apr 2018     Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA

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The route followed for the World Cruise....countries and ports visited....and time spent at sea....varies significantly from year to year. Some years will spend more time focusing on the Far East and the Mediterranean....while other year’s voyages will emphasize the warmth and sunshine of a southern hemisphere summer.

And for those of us who would be true ship aficionados....all 60 of those at sea days look mighty fine, too....alongside 40 port calls in 25 countries!

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I’ve sailed aboard Amsterdam a total of 80 days in recent years....and she’s one of the most gracious, quietly elegant, and relaxing ships afloat. I plan to join her on a future round-the-world cruise....

                                              ms Amsterdam

                                        _____________________

>>Top photo: Captain Jonathan Mercer....currently in command of Amsterdam for this voyage around the world.

                Captain Jonathan Mercer on the bridge of Amsterdam

>>Note: You can follow this World Cruise, from a Captain’s perspective, via his superb daily blog (CLICK HERE).

>>PS: Oh, the price tag for a World Cruise? Roughly USD$30K per person (double occupancy), and up....depending on your cabin type.

[chrisframeofficial]

QM2 back in the UK.

The Cunard Line Flagship Queen Mary 2 returned to Southampton on the morning of 15 April – bringing her troubled 2020 world cruise to an end.

Queen Mary 2 departed Southampton on 10 January under the command of Aseem Hashmi. The original world voyage itinerary was to be a celebratory cruise, made extra special given 2020 is Cunard’s 180th anniversary.

Video: https://youtu.be/L-NpMxpHoP8

The original itinerary planned to see the ship voyage east to Asia, before heading south to Australia. After taking in a variety of Aussie ports, the ship would head west to Mauritius, Réunion, South Africa and Namibia. QM2 was originally scheduled to return to Southampton on 18 April.

However rather than sailing to Asia, the Queen Mary 2 was diverted to Fremantle, Australia - with Cunard announcing the changed itinerary on 9 February.

QM2 journeyed from Sri Lanka to Fremantle via a refuelling stop at Malaysia. This change removed the entire Asian leg of the ship’s world cruise, due to ongoing health concerns in the region.

QM2 arrived in Australia on 18 February and commenced a full circumnavigation of the continent. She returned to Fremantle on 14 March, where it was announced that no new guests would be allowed to join the ship – as the health situation deteriorated in countries around the world, including Australia.

The following day, while still alongside in Fremantle, QM2’s 2020 world voyage was officially cancelled, and most of the passengers departed the ship in Fremantle. Two hundred or so who were unable to fly for medical reasons were allowed to stay aboard the ship.

QM2 left Australia on 16 March, bound for Port Louis in Mauritius where she would take on fuel. She then called at Durban during which some South African crew left the ship.

The Queen Mary 2 made the direct voyage from Durban to Southampton in 13 days – following a route along the west coast of Africa reminiscent of the great ocean liners that once linked Britain and South Africa.

Arriving into her homeport at 5:50am on 15 April, QM2 was joined in Southampton by fleet mate Queen Victoria, as well as P&O’s Britannia, Ventura and Azura.

Due to the nature of the voyage, Captain Hashmi was unable to be relieved by Captain Chris Wells in Fremantle, meaning Captain Hashmi has been in command of the ship for the entire 95 day voyage.

With QM2 alongside in Southampton, the Cunard fleet have now all completed their respective long-duration voyages. Until cruising resumes, it is expected that QM2 and Queen Victoria will remain in British Waters, while Queen Elizabeth is still far from home, sailing north of Australia awaiting orders with only her crew aboard.

[bigyack-com]

Coronavirus: Crystal, Seabourn and Viking Updates Itineraries

Cruise lines, both on the oceans and rivers, continue to update their sailings and policies as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. Here’s the latest from luxury cruise lines:

Crystal Cruises

Reservations originating on the Crystal Serenity on the following dates are now cancelled: March 3: Sydney, Australia) March 17, 2020: Bali (Benoa), Indonesia March 28, 2020: Colombo, Sri Lanka All guests scheduled to embark the Crystal Serenity on the above dates will receive a 100 percent refund of the cruise fare paid along with $500 per person for air consideration. Guests will also receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) of 25 percent of the base cruise fare paid, which can be used on any of Crystal’s experiences, including Ocean, River, Yacht and Expedition for voyages commencing on or before December 31, 2021.

Free Luxury Travel Newsletter

Like this story? Subscribe to The Dossier Luxury Travel Advisor’s only newsletter, covering unique destinations and product news for affluent travelers. Delivered every Tuesday & Thursday. Guests currently onboard Crystal Serenity that are scheduled to disembark in Bali or Colombo will now disembark the ship in Sydney on March 3. Crystal Cruises will refund these guests for the unused days of the cruise fare paid and the corresponding port charges as well as provide them with a 25 percent FCC. Crystal will also provide these guests with $500 per person credit to their shipboard folio to assist with travel arrangements. Crystal Symphony’s April 24 sailing will now be cancelled. All guests scheduled to embark the Crystal Symphony on April 24, 2020 will receive a 100 percent refund of the cruise fare paid, $500 per person for air consideration and an FCC of 25 percent of the base cruise fare paid.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Cruise Line has replaced the Southeast Asia port calls for Seabourn Encore through April 2020 “due to the unpredictable changes we have seen the past few weeks in travel restrictions and port operations throughout Asia.” Specific changes to the turnaround ports on the affected Seabourn Encore voyages include: April 7: Benoa (Denpasar), Bali; which will be redirected to Darwin, Australia April 17: Singapore; which will be redirected to Colombo, Sri Lanka Port calls from March 23 – May 2 are also affected, with some destinations changed and others rescheduled to alternate dates. Guests who are booked on affected voyages will receive a future cruise credit. Both booked guests and travel advisors are being notified along with specific details related to their itinerary.

Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises currently has two ships in Australia/New Zealand. Viking Sun will sail a modified itinerary on its way to London/Greenwich, England. Guests scheduled to embark/disembark on March 9, 2020 will now do so in Benoa, Bali (an update that supersedes any communication prior to February 14, 2020). Viking Orion will be redeployed to Alaska, where the ship was scheduled to begin sailing in late spring.  Additionally, Viking has cancelled all itineraries that feature a Yangtze River sailing during the months of March through June 2020.

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[janikbesendorf-blog]

Kandy Festival: An Introduction

If it’s August in Sri Lanka, then it’s time for the Kandy Festival of Perahera. Majestic elephants amble through the streets, resplendent in ornate regalia. All around you, the frenetic drumming and exotic chants electrify the atmosphere. Sparkling lights and the shining gold of opulent costumes dancing just out of reach, dazzles the eye everywhere you look.

It’s that time of the year in Kandy – the Perahera, one of the most spectacular festivals of Sri Lanka has begun!

Every year, around July – August, the royal city of Kandy, cosily nestled in the picturesque hill country of Sri Lanka, is caught up in a frenzy. During the ten days starting from the new moon, the streets of Kandy come alive with magnificent festive processions, to pay homage to the sacred tooth relic of the Gautam Buddha – the founder of Buddhism.

The city of Kandy lies in the scenic hill country of Sri Lanka

The Origin Of The Kandy Festival

Although the origin of the Kandy Perahera is hotly debated, most believe that it is a confluence of two Peraheras – Esala, a ritual requesting the God’s for rainfall, and Dalada, which, most believe, began once the Tooth was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th Century CE.

The Tooth: An Ancient Symbol of Power

The legend goes that when the Buddha – Siddhārtha Gautama, died, his body was consigned to the flames but one tooth remained unharmed.

Over the next 800 years, the belief that whoever owned the tooth had the divine right to rule, made it a precious possession indeed! Many wars were fought, many lives lost, and many kingdoms destroyed, but somehow the tooth survived!

Drummers in magnificent robes accompany the procession at Kandy

800 years after the Buddha’s death, hidden in the hair of princess Hemamala, the tooth traveled to Sri Lanka, which the Buddha had once described as a safe haven.

The Sacred Tooth Relic In Sri Lanka

The King of Sri Lanka received the tooth and its bearers with open arms, acknowledging the relic as a symbol of spiritualism. He ordered for the Perahera (procession) or the Kandy festival, to commemorate the day on which the relic arrived in Sri Lanka.

Over the next few centuries, the land saw many wars. Finally, the tooth was taken to Kandy, where it has rested till date in a temple built to protect it. Whether this relic is an original however, is debatable.

The servants of the Temple dress in ornate white and gold robes.

The Perahera in the present day

Around the Temple of The Sacred Tooth Relic, called Sri Dalada Maligawa in Sri Lanka, there are four other shrines of Hindu origin – the Natha Devale, the Vishnu Devale, the Katharagama Devale and the Pattini Devale. Each of them send out their own procession during the Perahera, to join forces with the main pageant in the Kandy festival.

Temple Festivities in the Kandy Festival

Every year, the Kandy festival begins on the day of the New Moon and this year, the first five days of the Kumbal Perahera start on 20th August 2015. The five main temples of Kandy are decorated and each night one of the temples becomes the main attraction with exciting processions taking place from the temple premises.

The Temple of the Tooth, where the Sacred Tooth Relic is kept, decorated for Perahera.

Five nights after the Kumbal Perahera, Randolis, the idols of Gods, travel through the city lit up by torches in ornate gold palanquins.

In 2016, the Kandy festival of Randoli Perahera will begin on 13th August and continue until 17th August.

What To Expect At The Kandy Perahera

Expect hushed silence throughout the city as people wait eagerly for the Perahera procession to begin. Suddenly, the thundering noise of cannon fire is heard from the temple, signalling the start. And lo! The devotees from the Temple of the Tooth leave the shrine to begin the procession through the streets of Kandy.

Each Temple sends out flag bearers with their insignia, for the pageant

The Kandy festival begins with a train consisting of proud torch-bearers and gorgeously dressed men brandishing long whips. Each stroke of the whip breaks the silence and the glorious light from the torches bring a mystical touch to the atmosphere. Buddhist flag bearers follow in the footsteps of the drummers who come next.

Fire artists at Perahera, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Musicians in silken white robes and bright red sashes belt out wonderfully exotic songs as dancers and acrobats whirl around, performing impossible feats! Finally, you see the priests and the servants of the temple, accompanied by richly decorated elephants – a wondrous finale to the magical Kandy festival.

The last three days of the pageant are the highlights of the event – in 2016, they are on the 15th, 16th and 17th August.

The grand procession is the highlight of the Kandy Perahera

The Sacred Tooth Relic traveling through the streets of Kandy on the back of a specially decorated elephant

On the final day, 17th August 2016, you will find the tooth relic traveling on the back of a specially decorated elephant (the Maligawa Tusker) through the streets. This allows it to be viewed by all who have gathered to watch, with hundreds of elephants and revelers following in its wake.

For the artists as well as the elephant owners, being part of this religious Kandy festival is a matter of great prestige, and participation is a tradition passed down through generations!

The Final Procession

At dawn on the last day, some worshippers from all five shrines walk to the Mahaweli River where the diya-kepeema ritual or water cutting ceremony takes place. Holy water is collected and preserved for cleaning the streets before the next Perahera.

Priests from the temple perform a water cutting ceremony on the final day of the Perahera; Editorial Credit: Suranga SL / Shutterstock.com

Finally, it is over and the devotees walk back to the city to end the Kandy festival with a day procession – a perfect opportunity to observe the difference between the nightly processions and the one held during the daytime.

Top Tip: Book your trip well in advance to avoid accommodation availability disappointment during the key dates of the Kandy festival. 

Sri Lanka is a country filled with spectacular natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. Talk to our travel consultants about creating a Sri Lanka vacation itinerary that best matches your interests.

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 Personal effects for windy, rainy, warm weather conditions should be considered  Insect repellents, sun protection creams etc, are highly recommended  Suitable casual clothing and footwear for outdoor activities  Conservative clothing for entering Temples – knees and shoulders must be covered