Latest news with #AdventureZone
Muscat Daily
16-04-2025
- Muscat Daily
Indian teenager from Oman treks to Mt Everest base camp
An Indian expatriate teenager from Oman converted the recent 9-day long Eid break into an opportunity to realise his dream of trekking to the Mt Everest base camp along with his mother, a yoga therapist, as a tribute to the all-encompassing spirit of the sultanate Through fog and mist, snow and hail, flickering light and treacherous terrain, he made his way ahead with an unflinching spirit – a spirit of accomplishment against all odds – and an ambitious attitude with no room for despair. While most teens spent the recent school break during Eid al Fitr relaxing indoors, 13-year-old Shiva Kochale, a student of Indian School Bousher, chose to celebrate his entry into teenage with an ambitious feat to test his endurance through snow, freezing winds, and sub-zero temperatures all the way to the Mt Everest Base Camp. Accompanied by his mother, Sonal Kochale, a yoga therapist and trekking enthusiast, the mother-son duo completed the 130km journey from Ramechhap to the base of the world's tallest mountain in Nepal. Residents of Oman since 2019, the mother and son undertook the expedition between March 29 and April 11. 'I enjoyed every step of this expedition. It wasn't just a trek, but an adventure of a lifetime, where every step teaches you something new. I'm sure, this will be the first of many more adventures I will want to undertake in years ahead – and the summit of Mt Everest will see me there someday!' Shiva said, sharing his high-flying ambitions. 'This journey wasn't just a personal milestone — it was a tribute to the all-encompassing spirit of Oman, where our love for adventure truly took root,' Sonal told Muscat Daily . She described the trek as a shared test of physical endurance and emotional resilience, rather than an item on their bucketlist. 'It was about challenging ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually — and doing it together, as a family.' The journey to 5,364m above sea level, often in temperatures below minus 20°C, left many fellow trekkers surprised at the presence of a 13-year-old. 'People were stunned to see a young boy making this climb with his mother. We got a lot of encouraging words along the way it was really touching,' Sonal said. Though the summit was in Nepal, the story of the trek began in Oman's mountains and wadis. Sonal credits the late Hussam al Balushi of 'Adventure Zone' in Muscat for introducing her to trekking. 'Hussam introduced me to Oman's beauty — from Jebel Shams to Wadi Shab. His encouragement laid the foundation for this dream. We owe him a lot,' she said. Building a new bond What started with casual weekend hikes, soon became a shared passion. 'It was a mix of a long-held dream and a recent decision — once we committed, we were all in,' she said. The mother-son team didn't rely on high-altitude gym training. Instead, their preparation was grounded in yoga. 'Our training revolved around breathing techniques, endurance, and static yoga poses. Sun salutations, mountain walks, and pranayama became part of our routine,' she said. Despite the preparation, the trek came with its share of challenges. 'There were moments when we doubted ourselves — heavy snowfall, steep climbs, low oxygen, and one day I even had a fever. But the bond between us helped us push through. Shiva supported me when I was down, and later, I was his rock when he struggled.' Reaching the base camp, surrounded by Himalayan peaks, was a moment of quiet reflection. 'It wasn't just a check mark on a list. We hoisted the flag of Oman there with pride. That moment surrounded by nature's grandeur — was humbling. Climbing Everest Base Camp together has deepened our bond. We had to rely on each other more than ever. Every step was a reminder of how far love, discipline, and belief can take you.' Message for dreamers As a yoga therapist, Sonal said the experience reaffirmed her core beliefs. 'This trek tested every ounce of that belief. It's something we'll cherish forever.' She hopes the experience inspires other families across India and Oman. 'I want young people — especially from India and Oman — to know that adventure is for everyone. With the right mindset and preparation, you can move mountains, quite literally.' When asked about what's next, she didn't hesitate. 'This is just the beginning. We want to continue exploring and inspiring others, one peak at a time.' Her advice to those uncertain about pursuing their dreams, she said, 'Dreams come with risks. But real accomplishment lives on the other side of fear. Prepare, stay grounded, and trust your every breath. Great things happen when courage meets consistency.'
Yahoo
30-03-2025
- Yahoo
Why Zakynthos is perfect for families
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). A Greek island holiday will feature on many travellers' wish lists, but families may find themselves bewildered by choice — there are more than 6,000 of them, with 227 being inhabited. Part of the Ionian archipelago and easily reached by a direct flight, mid-size Zakynthos ticks all the boxes — its southern peninsulas of Keri and Vassilikos are particularly well-served by diverse landscapes and stellar beaches, rich (partly Venetian) history and varied activities both on land and at sea. In-the-know visitors forgo popular Shipwreck Beach for Dafni, on the Vassilikos Peninsula, protected by the National Marine Park. Its calm waters are ideal for novice swimmers and parents can supervise while lingering at one of the low-key restaurants backing onto the shingly sands. Porto Mela's menu includes seafood crowd-pleasers like calamari, plus freshly baked bread from a traditional wood-fired oven. Keri Caves, on the island's southern fringe, are a quieter alternative to the Blue Caves, and kayaks can reach otherwise inaccessible rock fissures and beaches. Adventure Zone offers tours in two-person vessels, with friendly guide Kostas Stoufis handling photography so families can concentrate on synchronising paddles and scanning the super-clear waters for loggerhead turtles. The island is an important habitat for the species and Archelon, the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, operates in several coastal areas. At its Kalamaki site in southern Zakynthos near Laganas, it's possible to meet volunteers and, on occasion, join a beach patrol. The hike up Mount Skopos winds past an eerie abandoned resort and wandering goats. Best for over-10s, it'll take around an hour and a half to reach the 17th-century church and monastery Panagia Skopiotissa at the top — though the kids are more likely to appreciate the cafe's cold drinks. In the island's north is another intriguing monastery, that of St George — its tower was once used to fend off pirates. Explore Zakynthos offers guided excursions. Nearby Exo Chora is home to a 2,000-year-old olive tree, a gnarled beauty that serves as a giant scratching post for village cats. Next-door shop Olive Yard stocks edible souvenirs including flavoured oils and the traditional Ionian sweets mandolas: sugar-encrusted almonds. To describe Nobelos simply as a restaurant is to sell it short. Tucked into the picturesque northeastern cove of Agios Nikolaos and named after the family who run it, guests are greeted like old friends before being served exceptional food at terraced tables shaded by mature pines. From zesty salads to grilled vegetables, seafood pasta to filled pastries, dishes are all made using local, organic ingredients. After eating, diners decamp to the loungers on Nobelos' private beach — the rocky shores here are ideal for snorkelling — or shop for handicrafts at on-site Thalassa Boutique. A mezze meal is an ideal opportunity to get fussy eaters to try something new. Most kids will love souvlaki, small pieces of meat or vegetables grilled on a skewer. When served stuffed in a pitta bread with salad and sauces, it's called gyros, and both can be sampled at the Thraka Grillhouse in Zakynthos Town. Afterwards, experimental diners should try the unique, slightly chewy kaimaki ice cream, made using mastiha tree resin — just one of the bold flavours offered at Miretta Gelateria in Markos Square. This and the strikingly Venetian-looking Solomos Square are both popular local strolling spots. The Greek plate-smashing tradition is believed to ward off bad spirits, but families can make their own luck at a ceramics class with Hanne Mi S Sauge. A two-hour session at her studio in Vassilikos includes instruction on how to use the potter's wheel and make hand-built sculptures. Sitting on the peaceful fringes of Argassi town, Windmill Bay Hotel has family-friendly rooms — including ground-floor suites with outdoor whirlpool baths and direct access to a kidney-shaped pool. Its seafront restaurant Anadalis is one of the island's best and offers a bargain children's menu (€8/£6.50) alongside Mediterranean-Japanese cuisine. From £156 for a Junior Suite Sea View, B&B. Published in the December 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
National Geographic
30-03-2025
- National Geographic
Why Zakynthos is perfect for families
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). A Greek island holiday will feature on many travellers' wish lists, but families may find themselves bewildered by choice — there are more than 6,000 of them, with 227 being inhabited. Part of the Ionian archipelago and easily reached by a direct flight, mid-size Zakynthos ticks all the boxes — its southern peninsulas of Keri and Vassilikos are particularly well-served by diverse landscapes and stellar beaches, rich (partly Venetian) history and varied activities both on land and at sea. Best beach for families In-the-know visitors forgo popular Shipwreck Beach for Dafni, on the Vassilikos Peninsula, protected by the National Marine Park. Its calm waters are ideal for novice swimmers and parents can supervise while lingering at one of the low-key restaurants backing onto the shingly sands. Porto Mela's menu includes seafood crowd-pleasers like calamari, plus freshly baked bread from a traditional wood-fired oven. Coastal adventures & education Keri Caves, on the island's southern fringe, are a quieter alternative to the Blue Caves, and kayaks can reach otherwise inaccessible rock fissures and beaches. Adventure Zone offers tours in two-person vessels, with friendly guide Kostas Stoufis handling photography so families can concentrate on synchronising paddles and scanning the super-clear waters for loggerhead turtles. The island is an important habitat for the species and Archelon, the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, operates in several coastal areas. At its Kalamaki site in southern Zakynthos near Laganas, it's possible to meet volunteers and, on occasion, join a beach patrol. Mountain highs The hike up Mount Skopos winds past an eerie abandoned resort and wandering goats. Best for over-10s, it'll take around an hour and a half to reach the 17th-century church and monastery Panagia Skopiotissa at the top — though the kids are more likely to appreciate the cafe's cold drinks. In the island's north is another intriguing monastery, that of St George — its tower was once used to fend off pirates. Explore Zakynthos offers guided excursions. Nearby Exo Chora is home to a 2,000-year-old olive tree, a gnarled beauty that serves as a giant scratching post for village cats. Next-door shop Olive Yard stocks edible souvenirs including flavoured oils and the traditional Ionian sweets mandolas: sugar-encrusted almonds. The town of Zakynthos in the island's southeast can be seen from above at the Bochali viewpoint. Photograph by Chris Mouyiaris, AWL Images Spend a day To describe Nobelos simply as a restaurant is to sell it short. Tucked into the picturesque northeastern cove of Agios Nikolaos and named after the family who run it, guests are greeted like old friends before being served exceptional food at terraced tables shaded by mature pines. From zesty salads to grilled vegetables, seafood pasta to filled pastries, dishes are all made using local, organic ingredients. After eating, diners decamp to the loungers on Nobelos' private beach — the rocky shores here are ideal for snorkelling — or shop for handicrafts at on-site Thalassa Boutique. Where to eat A mezze meal is an ideal opportunity to get fussy eaters to try something new. Most kids will love souvlaki, small pieces of meat or vegetables grilled on a skewer. When served stuffed in a pitta bread with salad and sauces, it's called gyros, and both can be sampled at the Thraka Grillhouse in Zakynthos Town. Afterwards, experimental diners should try the unique, slightly chewy kaimaki ice cream, made using mastiha tree resin — just one of the bold flavours offered at Miretta Gelateria in Markos Square. This and the strikingly Venetian-looking Solomos Square are both popular local strolling spots. Hands-on culture The Greek plate-smashing tradition is believed to ward off bad spirits, but families can make their own luck at a ceramics class with Hanne Mi S Sauge. A two-hour session at her studio in Vassilikos includes instruction on how to use the potter's wheel and make hand-built sculptures. Where to stay Sitting on the peaceful fringes of Argassi town, Windmill Bay Hotel has family-friendly rooms — including ground-floor suites with outdoor whirlpool baths and direct access to a kidney-shaped pool. Its seafront restaurant Anadalis is one of the island's best and offers a bargain children's menu (€8/£6.50) alongside Mediterranean-Japanese cuisine. From £156 for a Junior Suite Sea View, B & B. This story was created with the support of Windmill Bay Hotel, Explore Zakynthos and Visit Greece. National Geographic Traveller (UK). To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click Published in the December 2024 issue of(UK).To subscribe to(UK) magazine click here . (Available in select countries only).
Tourism Breaking News
29-01-2025
- Tourism Breaking News
Hawar Resort by Mantis opens on Bahrain's premier eco-tourism destination
Post Views: 67 Hawar Resort by Mantis opens on Bahrain's premier eco-tourism destination welcoming guests to an extraordinary island escape set on Bahrain's UNESCO-recognised Hawar Island. Located just 20 kilometres from Bahrain's mainland, this beachfront resort is designed as a haven for eco-conscious travellers blending luxury and sustainability. Hawar's pristine environment has been virtually untouched, resulting in a vibrant ecosystem that will appeal to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Guests begin their journey at the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, the resort's dedicated arrival hub, where they are greeted with warm hospitality and a seamless check-in experience. From there, a short 25-minute boat ride takes them directly to the resort. The resort has 104 stylish accommodations, including guest rooms, two tented suites, beach villas and overwater villas – many with private pools and direct access to the beach. The resort caters to a wide range of guest preferences, from families and couples to solo adventurers. Commenting on the opening, Andre Erasmus, General Manager of Hawar Resort by Mantis, said: 'We are thrilled to open the doors of Hawar Resort by Mantis and invite guests to experience the unmatched beauty of Hawar Island. This resort reflects a deep respect for the environment and Bahrain's cultural heritage, offering an island retreat that is both luxurious and sustainable.' On Hawar Island guests can immerse themselves in a variety of land-based activities, such as camel and horseback riding, and watching the graceful Socotra cormorant birds in their natural habitat. For those with an interest in local culture, the resort also offers captivating falconry. Water sports enthusiasts will also be able to enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, paddle surfboarding, jet skiing, house reef snorkelling, and at a later stage scuba diving in the clear turquoise waters surrounding the island. For a more relaxing experience, guests can unwind at the resort's luxurious spa, offering an array of soothing therapies, or bask in the sunshine by the seafront pool. A state-of-the-art gym is available for those looking to maintain their fitness routines, while younger guests can enjoy the dedicated kids' and teens' clubs. Guests can choose from five distinctive dining venues, savouring culinary highlights of the region and freshly caught fish from the Gulf at the all-day dining restaurant Bahri, or enjoy refreshing cocktails at the Beach Lounge. The resort's signature restaurant, C-Salt, showcases an innovative dining concept that promises seasonal pop-ups and celebrity chef appearances, ensuring that every visit offers something new and exciting. A highlight of the resort is the Bear Grylls Adventure Zone by BGSA, offering survival courses and outdoor challenges designed by Bear Grylls and his team. Opening shortly after the resort's launch, it promises unforgettable experiences for families and seasoned adventurers alike. Eco credentials: True to its eco-conscious ethos, the resort has been built with sustainability at its core, integrating advanced conservation techniques and waste management systems to protect the island's unique ecosystem. Sustainable materials, such as bamboo replace single-use plastics, while in-room amenities are thoughtfully designed to minimise environmental impact. This commitment ensures that the island's natural beauty and diverse wildlife are preserved for generations to come.
