Author Archives: auburn

Halloween in Bali – A Mix of Fun and Twists

Posted on by

Bali might not be the first venue that comes to mind when you think of Halloween as the township is one associated mostly with fine beaches, exquisite multinational cuisine, romance and hospitable treatment no matter where you come from. However, Bali has its own version of Halloween which is known as ‘Nyepi’, which is celebrated by the Hindus in Bali before their New Year.

For Nyepi the Hindu communities get on to the streets and make different chanting like sounds, apparently with the intention of warding off evil spirits prior to ushering in the New Year. They then lock themselves indoors the following day for fear of beckoning the spirits back. Halloween is seen to be celebrated in true traditional form only by the expatriate population, though the trend is catching on, since Bali takes any excuse to party. The tropical climatic conditions allow beach Halloween celebrations and there is good fun on the shores throughout the night.

Youngsters of the North American expatriates get on to the streets in creatively thought-out, supposedly scary outfits that are actually quite amusing and the Balinese population have a good time watching the parade. Trick or treating is not as popular or as successful unless you are in an expatriate neighborhood that would understand the ritual and be involved. Some prefer to appear in accessorized attire for the party environment and dance all their cares away. The outfits can be easily stitched at a local tailor’s or seamstress’s who have now become quite acquainted with the strange ritual and the requirements. Pumpkins are a little more difficult to find, but there is a good local substitute known as ‘labu parang’ which can be used with ease.

Any Kuta beach resort would have a bit of decorations to suit the atmosphere, so expect to see labu parang shells smiling broadly when you sit down for your star class meals at a resort in Kuta. The staff members of the best accommodation providers join in the fun and add to the spooky atmosphere with a small alteration to their usual attire. The Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort and its counterparts have no shortage of guests during this season.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Taylor Swift New Zealand Concert 2013

Posted on by

The international singing sensation Taylor Swift will be returning to New Zealand with The Red Tour. Make your reservations in advance at an Auckland city hotel such as Copthorne Hotel Auckland City to enjoy exclusive Auckland hotel specials to enhance your experience while you prepare to attend the concert. Taylor’s fourth studio album titled ‘Red’ was released back in October 2012 and features a number of hit singles. The red Tour’s concert in Auckland is set to take place at the Vector Arena on 20th and 30th of November 2013. Swift will be joined by the renowned alternative rock band Neon Trees for guest performances. The performances of the Red Tour feature elaborate costumes, multi-level stages, changing sets, aerialists, dancers and more. You can expect to see Taylor playing acoustic guitar, piano, banjo and electric guitar.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Festivals in Bali – Unique and vibrant

Posted on by

A traveller planning to enjoy their holiday in Indonesia to the fullest should make it a point to make reservations at a Bali luxury spa resort. An ideal choice of a Bali spa resort is COMO Shambhala Estate Bali. An island rich in natural beauty, Bali has long been a famed tourist destination. Whilst there are numerous attractions for travellers to explore, local events and festivals offer a glimpse into the distinctive local culture. Some of these festivals celebrate the art of woodcarving whilst others include harvest festivals, harvest festivals, colourful parades, fasting ceremonies and more. Experience the wide range of vibrant dances, processions, purification and much more. When it comes to non-religious festivals, there is the country’s Independence Day.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Bangkok National Museum

Posted on by

Located in the former palace of the vice king, which is on the opposite side of Sanam Luang to The Grand Palace, Bangkok National Museum displays an extensive collection of Thai artifacts, regional Asian Buddhist arts and much more. Those in search of such a luxury hotel in Bangkok near the museum can stay at Metropolitan by COMO, Bangkok This Bangkok luxury hotel is ideal for traveling around the city and for visiting the popular attractions that are located in close proximity.

Established in 1874 by King Rama V, The Bangkok National Museum was initially opened to exhibit relics from the rule of King Rama IV. Today it features exhibits of Thai art and history dating back to Neolithic times found throughout the country that includes exhibits like The King Ram Khamhaeng Inscription.

The Museum also features a vast collection of miscellaneous exhibits such as Chinese and Thai ceramics, weapons, theatrical costumes, palanquins, and assorted items used in royal households. These include painted pots, Neolithic tools, and bronze objects that were found in the northeast areas of the country.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Miss World 2013 Bali- Crowning opportunity for the Southeast Asia

Posted on by

Celebrating its 63rd edition in September 28, 2013, everything is set and ready for the Miss World 2013. Widely known as the world’s biggest beauty contest, the Miss World title is considered as the highest recognition which could be received by a beauty contestant. Together with other competitive events including Miss Universe and Miss Earth, this beauty pageant is known as the most publicized beauty contest in the world. Originated by Eric Morley in 1951, Miss World pageant is the oldest existing competition we get to witness in present day.

Surrounded by breathtaking landscape and magical natural scenery, the Sentul International Convention Centre, on the outskirts of Jakarta is the perfect location for this international event. Playing host to some of the prime international events of the world, this imposing arena is the largest venue in Indonesia. Incorporated with state-of-the-art equipments to provide special sound and light effects and with seating capacity for up to 11,000 spectators, the Sentul International Convention Centre is the ideal venue for the Miss World 2013 in Bali.

One of the significant features of this year’s pageant is that it is the first time that the event is to be held in the Southeast Asia Region. The cultural background and diversity of nations which are expected to feature in this year’s pageant ties in well with Indonesia’s national motto ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ which means ‘Unity in Diversity’. The location of this year’s Miss World pageant has brought in few changes to this international event. Indonesia, being predominantly a Muslim country has shown their refusal in exhibiting contestants in their swimwear. As a result the organizers of this year’s pageant have decided to replace the usual “Beach Fashion” segment with a more conservative “Balinese Beach Fabric” event.

Miss World 2013 in Bali is expected to lift the name of Indonesia in the eyes of the world and it is also considered as a perfect opportunity for this Southeast Asian country to promote tourism and hospitality to the international community. If you are thinking of visiting Indonesia, there will not be a perfect time for it than this September to explore this exotic Asian nation. Reserve your luxury resort Bali prior to your arrival during this season. If you are looking for a conveniently located and peaceful Nusa Dua resort to reside during your holiday, the Laguna Resort & Spa Nusa Dua Bali is a perfect accommodation option available for all the discerning travellers.

 

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Por Tor Festival – Phuket’s Festival for the Dead

Posted on by

Phuket is known for its heavenly beaches and is a much loved tourist destination. However, few people realise that Phuket is actually a highly spiritual place. Although not very big in size, the Thai island is home to a fair number of temples and there is always some type of function going on. Travellers who are interested in learning more about foreign customs and cultures can do so by participating in the local celebrations. There are several interesting options depending on the time of the year. Those visiting between August and September may get a chance to take part in the Por Tor Festival.

The Por Tor Festival, more popularly known as the ‘Hungry Ghost Festival’, is a Chinese festival that falls on the seventh month of the Chinese lunar calendar. It is believed that at midnight on the last day of the sixth month, the gateway to the spirit world is opened and the spirits are allowed to freely roam the world. The spirits will usually return to visit their families and relatives. Most people spend their days in prayer to appease their ancestors. They also give offerings of flowers, incense and food. The food offerings are meant to appease the ghosts, as it is believed that a hungry ghost is an angry ghost.

Night time trips are avoided for the duration of the month, although some activities do take place. Tourists will be able to observe and take part in a number of interesting activities. Keep an eye out for the ‘red turtles’. These are actually cakes and can be seen at shrines. Sometimes the turtles bear messages or names on their back. It can be fun to buy one from a bakery and leave it at a shrine.

One can enjoy the Por Tor Festival at a Patong beach resort like the Millennium Resort Patong Phuket. The Phuket resort is situated in the centre of Patong and is a terrific place to stay. Providing guests with easy access to the beaches, nightclubs, restaurants and bars of Patong, it is the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

Google+

Ramadan & Eid Festival 2013 – Celebrate it in Abu Dhabi

Posted on by

Ramadan, sometimes referred to as Ramazan, is the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar. The month, which lasts between twenty nine and thirty days (as it follows the lunar cycle), will be spent in fasting and prayer. In 2013, the month will occur between July and August. It is obligatory for all Muslims to fast between sunrise and sunset, forsaking food and water during this period. It is generally not a popular time to visit Abu Dhabi as the flow of activity in the emirate is disrupted. Offices work shorter hours and many restaurants remain closed during the daytime.

On the other hand, this also means that crowded tourist spots are no longer crowded and that one need not wait in long lines anymore. Since most locals do not venture out during the day, shops stay open well into the night, and a number of them have promotional offers and discounts, making it a terrific time to go shopping. Eating in public during the fasting hours is prohibited and most restaurants only open about an hour or two before the sunset. However, tourists are free to eat within the confines of their hotels. The end of the month is marked by a giant celebration.

Although visiting during the month of Ramadan does pose a few challenges, it is a terrific time to visit the United Arab Emirates. Foreigners can learn a lot about the local culture and practices. It is an especially good time to do sample traditional Emirati meals. One should make a point to visit the iftar (name given to the sunset meal) tents that pop up throughout the emirate. They serve delicious local cuisine and one can even indulge in traditional games.

Hotel prices tend to drop during the Ramadan season, which is another reason why it is the perfect time to visit the place. Tourists looking for a hotel Abu Dhabi UAE that comes with all the latest modern amenities can try the Grand Millennium Al Wahda, which is situated right next to the popular Al Wahda Mall. In addition to a great location, the Abu Dhabi hotel also has a terrific rooftop pool and a delightful spa.

 

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

Google+

F1 Singapore 2013 – Coming This September

Posted on by

Few spectator sports offer the same thrills as Formula One racing. One’s heart rate starts to climb the minute the cars roar past the start line and does not come down until the race concludes. The races are held in several destinations around the world and are widely televised. However, nothing can compare to actually being there. Of all the races, the Singapore Grand Prix has given has given spectators some really good ones over the past few years. Held annually at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, the Singapore Grand Prix is an event that is not to be missed.

The races in Singapore are particularly thrilling as they take place on a street circuit. The constantly shifting landscape ensures that there is no monotony. The track, which is only about five kilometres in length, features twenty three turns and plenty of opportunities to overtake opponents and spectators can get really close to all the action. One need not be a race enthusiast to enjoy a day at the races. The electric atmosphere, the rise and fall of car engines as they whiz by, and the nerve and skill displayed by drivers can be enjoyed by everyone.

So those planning on visiting Singapore this September should definitely try to get tickets to the Singapore Grand Prix. Opportunities like this only come once in a while and visitors should grab the chance when they can. Tickets can be purchased through the race’s official website. The 2013 edition of the Singapore Grand Prix is not just about racing; it will also feature concert and shows by some of the world’s leading contemporary performers. It is just another thing to look forward to at the F1 Singapore 2013.

Tourists can ensure that they miss none of the action by staying at centrally located hotels in Singapore. The Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Singapore offers a chain of conveniently located Singapore hotels, each with the same excellent facilities and high level of service. Their hotels are situated next to the island’s business and leisure centres, so that guests never have to travel too far to enjoy the best that Singapore has to offer.

Hong Kong wine and dine festival

Posted on by

Tourist destinations such as Hong Kong offer best of the best and being based at Hong Kong serviced apartments make it possible to enjoy your stay in the city to the fullest. Citadines Ashley Hongkong is a desirable option of serviced accommodation Hong Kong has to offer. If you are lucky, you will be visiting the city during the time of Hong Kong wine and dine festival. Bringing an excellent blend of culinary delights and fine wines amidst the enchanting backdrop of the harbor, the event also features fantastic live entertainment. This gourmet extravaganza brings the chance for you to taste some great wines from all around the world. Also be sure to sample some of the heavenly desserts featured at the event.

Phuket Fireworks Festival – Phuket in August

Posted on by

August is generally a quiet month in the Thai island paradise of Phuket. However, there is a little bit of excitement towards the middle of the month, when locals and visitors will be treated to an extravagant fireworks show courtesy of Laem Saphan Hin, a small village situated on the outskirts of Phuket Town. The fireworks festival is a grand affair that will delight the young and the old alike. The event is held annually and has gathered quite a following.

During the festival the night sky will come to life in a fiery spectacle which will use up over four thousand fireworks. The visual fiesta ordinarily lasts about forty minutes and can be seen from miles away, although, it is best viewed from nearby. Tourists who happen to be in Phuket in August should try to catch the Phuket Fireworks Festival if possible. It is bound to be an interesting affair.

The Por Tor Festival, or Hungry Ghost Festival, is another major event that takes place in August. Some believe that during the month of the festival, the dead are released to walk free on earth. To appease their newly roused ancestors and to obtain their favour, people give offerings of food. It is a terrific time to observe the local customs and practices and also to sample the delicious local cuisine.

Phuket is probably the most well-known of Thailand’s many islands and receives a fair share of tourist traffic. The island has many great beaches and is the ideal place for a vacation. In addition to beaches, Phuket also has a thriving night scene and is something of a haven for shoppers. Despite all appearances to the contrary, Phuket is fairly large in size and it can be difficult to get around unless one has central accommodation.

Those looking for a Phuket resort with a good location can try the Millennium Resort Patong Phuket. As a renowned Patong beach resort the hotel offers easy access to the many attractions in the area. Not only does Patong have amazing beaches but it also has terrific restaurants, bars, nightclubs and offers terrific shopping opportunities, making it a wonderful place to stay.