Author Archives: Caliope Sage

Justin Timberlake Live on Yas Island – Timberlake to rock Abu Dhabi

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Starting out in the Mickey Mouse Club as a child and moving onto the hit 90’s boy band N’Sync and thereafter releasing hit singles, Justin Timberlake has managed to rocket to fame in a short period of time for his music and lately for his acting career as well.

2013 saw the 33 year old singer/actor dominate the global charts with his bestselling album 20/20 experience and 20/20 experience 2 of 2. The du Arena at Yas Island Abu Dhabi will feature Timberlake bringing this thrilling album as part of his World Tour to an eagerly awaiting audience on the 23rd of May 2014.

Timberlake last visited the UAE in 2007 as part of his Justified Tour which was staged at the Abu Dhabi Emirates Palace. The concert wowed an astounding 13’000 strong fan base and ticket sales for the 2014 Tour which began in mid January have already taken off.

Whilst the 2007 tour featured much loved hits such as What Goes Around Comes Around, Rock Your Body and Cry Me a River, it is hoped that the 2014 edition will feature these along with newer hits such as Mirrors, Suit & Tie and Let the Groove get in.

Yas Island is a much loved and much used famous arena for International performers and concerts and is a mere 45 minute drive away from Dubai and 10 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi.

With 4 Emmy Awards and 9 Grammy awards under his belt, Timberlake is fast moving onto a promising acting career as well as owning two thriving restaurants. He was also named Favourite Pop/Rock Male Artist at the 2013 American Music Awards. Happily married to actress Jessica Biel in 2012, Timberlake is an all round artiste with much promise.

For those visiting the UAE during this time, getting your hands on these concert tickets is a must. Looking for a hotel in Abu Dhabi will prove easier not only in terms of getting to the concert but also in order to enjoy the sights and sounds of Abu Dhabi at leisure. If looking for such accommodation Abu Dhabi then visitors should consider the luxurious and well facilitated Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi.

Beautyworld Middle East 2014 – A place for all your beauty needs

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Known to be the largest International Trade Fair for Beauty Products, Cosmetics and Perfumery in the Middle East, the Beautyworld Middle East is once again being held in 2014 from 27th May to 29th May 2014, allowing all those beauty conscious individuals a chance to truly explore the world of cosmetics. Finding   accommodation in Dubai during this period will not be an issue since Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa is a reputed Palm Jumeirah hotel that is known to cater to every single need of discerning travellers. Evolving steadily over the past 17 years since its inception, this show-stopping beauty show features a wide range of cutting edge products and services from around the world, thereby serving as a one stop destination for all your beauty needs, enabling the visitors to learn about the latest market trends from across the globe.

Lotus Lantern Festival – In honour of wisdom and light

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Paying tribute to a millennial tradition, the Lotus Lantern Festival held with the aim of paying tribute to Buddha’s coming into the world, is a grand and vibrant event celebrated over a period of 3 days. It would be a good idea to seek out an appropriate Seoul apartment to fully soak in the activity during this period. Somerset Palace Seoul is a recommended Somerset Palace Seoul offers comfortable Seoul serviced apartments that would prove to be ideal for the purpose. According to Buddhist beliefs, lanterns, more importantly light signifies wisdom. Therefore, the lantern festival is held in respect for the Lord Buddha, who brought immense wisdom and enlightenment to his followers. Bringing throngs of foreign and local tourists together, Seoul sees hundreds and thousands of magnificent lotus lanterns of various sizes lighting up the city during this time. Also to be expected during this period is parades, performances and songs, all in honour of the great Lord Buddha. The Lotus Lantern Festival is essentially a family oriented festival. One sees entire families getting together and making lanterns of different shapes and colours while engaging in the multitude of programmes arranged just or the occasion.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Chonburi Festival in Thailand – Buffaloes to the fore!

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An annual festival in the Chonburi festival of Thailand, the buffalo races are quite popular amongst not only the locals, but also the foreigners. While visiting, there are plenty of luxury hotel resorts in which you can seek accommodation amongst which Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas stand out from amongst the luxury hotels in the region. According to records, buffalo racing in Chonburi is an event that has been in continuation for 70 years during which King Rama VI has also been an ardent viewer. The event is usually held a day before the full moon day in October and is held in great festivity. The buffalos are colourfully decorated in vibrant cloths and garlands of flowers, a sight which is quite delightful to witness. The trick is to ride the buffalo bareback and guide it down the track using only the reins and the whip. The riders are from the local community and it is a test of balance as well as agility for the riders. Great prices await the winners at the end of each event which serves as a great motivational factor for participation.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered. Google+

Arabian Travel Market 2014 – An opportunity for travel and tourism professionals

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Scheduled to be held from 5th to 8th of May, the Arabian Travel Market makes the promise of an exhilarating experience. Featuring a myriad of exciting stalls, workshops, seminars as well as entertainment, 5 star hotels Dubai has to offer overfill with visitors during this time of the year. Grand Millennium Dubai is a recommended Dubai luxury hotel to stay in during the exhibition but it is always recommended to book well beforehand. Known to be a prominent international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for outbound and inbound tourism professionals from all around the world, the Arabian Travel Market brings together buyers as well as the top decision makers representing each and every facet of the leisure travel industry. Unlocking Middle East’s business potential for outbound and inbound tourism professionals, the Arabian Travel Market 2014 will most undoubtedly open up plenty of doors, unveiling to the industry so much of options.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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A Glimpse Into Ancient History-Xi’an, China

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Xi’an was one of the earliest centers of Chinese civilization going back to the Zhou dynasty of the eleventh century. It was home to several emperors and most of the ancient dynasties of China were established in this city. It is the perfect location for those interested in history, Chinese culture and Chinese people. If you are a history buff you can keep yourself busy in Xi’an for over a week since there are so many historical sites to visit. Even if you are not the history type, Xi’an is probably the best place to experience authentic Chinese culture. The city sits in the Wei River valley surrounded by modern developments, and yet you get the feeling that the people of Xi’an have held on to their historical roots.

The Tang Dynasty show is a cultural performance that will give you a taste of what it was like back in ancient China. There are two main venues that host the show; one is Shaanxi Song and Dance Theatre and the other is Tang Dynasty Palace. For the performance held at Shaanxi Song and Dance theatre you have the option of a sit down dinner. The theatre is considered to be one of China’s best cultural entertainment theatre restaurants. Foreign visitors will love the atmosphere of the theatre because you can enjoy delicious meals provided by the Tang Dynasty Palace and also revel in the exhilarating performance.

If you want to grasp the historical essence of Xi’an then you should make a trip to Army of Terra-Cotta warriors. The site was discovered by a local farmer back in the 1970’s and it has now become a popular attraction amongst locals and foreigners alike. The terra-cotta figures are life size and they represent army of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. Some of the other key sites to visit when you are in Xi’an are: Big Goose Pagoda, Hanyang Tombs, Forest of Stone Steles and Huaqing hot springs. While there are a large number of historical attractions to explore in Xi’an there are also some places where you can just hang out. Check out the bazaar in Xi’an Muslim Quarters or Xi’an city wall. You can easily find Xian accommodation if you intend on staying in the city. A serviced apartment Xian would be the perfect fit for those who want some privacy and at the same time a place that is close to all of the tourist attractions. Citadines Xingking Palace Xi’an can be recommended since it includes all of the services plus a gym, sauna, yoga and table tennis rooms.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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BRIDE Dubai 2014 – A golden opportunity for soon-to-be-weds

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Scheduled from 2 – 5 April 2014, the largest and most luxurious bridal and fashion event of the Middle East is due to take place at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, giving a golden opportunity to explore all those bridal fashion trends for all those who are planning on tying the knot. Book a Dubai hotel in advance in order to attend this festival hassle-free and a Deira hotel Dubai such as the Copthorne Hotel Dubai would be the ideal choice of accommodation for the event. Equipped with a whole host of wedding planners, designers, a jewellery pavilion as well as a VIP lounge, BRIDE Dubai 2014 is the perfect platform for exhibitors to showcase their latest products and services as well as for the soon-to-be-weds to explore their options for the big day. The BRIDE Dubai will also feature a number of glamorous performances such as the glamorous Catwalk Show and the Fashion Avenue, incorporating style and convenience under one roof. Planning your big day just got much simpler!

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Naris Day: Celebrating the Birthday Anniversary of HRH Prince Narisaranuvattiwongse

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Throughout the course of time, many iconic events taken place over the years have shaped the manner in which the modern world celebrates various events. Events that are affiliated to religions such as Easter and Christmas are celebrated with vigour alongside holidays such as Boxing Day and various Independence Days. Such commemorative holidays are declared by Governments depending upon the event or its importance, as well as by notable organisations in order to raise awareness of or to celebrate an iconic moment in history. As a result, many organisations celebrate World Cancer Day, World Down Syndrome Day and World Tuberculosis Day while States celebrate events such as the International Workers’ Day and May Day. In the midst of such celebrations, Governments have also declared certain days as holidays in order to commemorate the achievements of a certain distinguished individual of society and the Prince Naris Day in Thailand is one of them.

Celebrated on the birthday of HRH Prince Narisaranuvattiwongse on the 28th of April annually, Prince Naris Day was celebrated in 2013 with a lecture by the Prince’s grandson, MR Chakrarot Chitrabong at the Siam Society. This lecture embodied details about the life of the Prince and his achievements which lead to his epithet “The Great Craftsman of Siam”. Alongside the lecture, a number of other events took place as well. These included the exhibition of some of the newly discovered work completed by the Prince as well while the family is planning on launching a book complete with all his designs as well as a selection private designs that were never seen by the public.

HRH Prince Narisaranuvattiwongse was a well known designer in his time and was the son of King Rama IV. His designs have endured even today and the best example is the ordination hall of Wat Rachathiwat. His private residence is now open for public viewings, but it is best to inquire from your City hotel Bangkok prior to visiting in order to confirm the time and dates on which it is open. Most Bangkok City hotels will happily make this inquiry for you. Visiting the shopping central of Thailand also means that you can opt to explore the shopping district after visiting Ban Plainern and what better place to reside in than in the heart of the shopping district at Atrium Bangkok.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Ride the Rapids of Bali – White Water Rafting in Bali

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Located between Java and Lombok is the popular Indonesian island of Bali. Considered to be one of Indonesia’s most famous tourist destinations, Bali offers a great combination of a tropical climate, stunning scenic beauty and a unique culture. Visitors of the island can enjoy its beautiful beaches, breath-taking landscapes and its many cultural attractions; inclusive of traditional and modern dance and arts.
Bali, being an exotic and tropical island, also offers a wide range of recreational and leisure activities to choose from. Of these one of the most exciting and exhilarating activities is white water rafting. White water rafting involves rafting through raging rapids and waves of rivers and is considered to be a truly adrenaline pumping extreme sport. If you enjoy riding the cool raging waters of tropical rivers with stunning tropical scenery in the background, then head on down to Bali and ride the rapids!
The island has many service providers and operators who offer white water rafting facilities, making it rather easy to plan our a day with the rapids. Bali has many famous white water rafting routes that travel through various jungles and other attractions, which give the white water rafting experience an adventurous aspect too.
Three of the best sites to engage in white water rafting in Bali are the Ayung River, the Telaga Waja River and the Melanggit River. One can experience the thrills of this sport at these rivers, as they all contain rapids which range from level 2 to level 4! Of these rivers the Telega Waja River is the most challenging and is sure to test your physical and mental strength. The white water rafting operators of the island are certified institutions and will ensure your safety while you engage in this exciting and thrilling activity, so you can go ahead and enjoy yourself to the maximum. So, for a thrilling and exhilarating experience in the area, ride the rapids of the rivers of this paradise.
Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa is one of the most sought after of Krabi resorts that one might consider staying at. The resort affords a variety of fine restaurants, spa therapies and recreational and leisure facilities making it one of the most ideal Trang Resort for a tranquil and soothing vacation.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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Water-Splashing Festival – A great boisterous affair!

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A fascinating festival welcoming the New Year, the Water Splashing Festival is a much looked forward to event amongst the Chinese.  Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort & Spa is a preferred hotel in Yunnan among those who flock to the city in time to witness the festivities as this hotel Yunnan has to offer is placed ideally in the middle of all the happenings so as to not miss anything. The water-splashing Festival is considered to be the most important festival of all by the Dai ethnic community. Held during the sixth month of the Dai calendar, the festival falls mid-April and is also known as the Festuival for Bathing the Buddha. In the Dai language, the festival is also known as “Shanghan”, “Jingbimai” or “Hounan” and lasts for three days in total. The first day sees the people bathing and changing into new cloths to go and worship the Buddha and engage in religious activities. Devotees flock together on temple grounds to make a tower with sand after which they listen to Buddhist scriptures sitting around the sand tower. Afterwards, the Buddha statue is carried out and splashed with water by the village women as a part of ritual. Initially, people gently sprinkled water on each other as a sign of respect as part of a cleansing ritual welcoming the New Year but since the festival falls during the hottest month in South East Asia, people generally end up dousing vehicles and even strangers with water as part of the merrymaking.

 

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Calliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.

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