Author Archives: Catalina Forbes

Discovering Senado Square in Macau – A Stroll Back in Time

Posted on by

While Macau may be full of glitz, glamour and gaming at its lavish casinos, this destination has a rich history too. A great place to start your journey of discovery would be Senado Square.

Getting There

Senado Square can be found in the Historic Centre of Macau which has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Within a 12 minute drive from Hotel Okura Macau, this site can be reached by public bus services including the following routes which have stops nearby: 3, 6A, 18A, 33, N1A.

What to Expect

A visit to Senado Square with its old world charm offers a fascinating contrast to the atmosphere you will find at luxury hotels in Macau. Home to neo-classical buildings, a mosaic-tiled pavement, an old post office and Chinese herbal medicine stores, the square will take one back in time.

Key Attractions

There are three notable structures here that are part of the Historic Centre of Macau; the 18th century senate building known as Leal Senado, Macau’s oldest church, the 16th century St. Dominic’s Church and the Holy House of Mercy which also dates back to the 16th century.

Exploring Further

Senado Square makes an ideal starting point to your Macau adventures since it’s close to other sites of interest most notably, the Ruins of St. Paul. Also within easy reach are the Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady, the Kuan Tai Temple and the Macao Museum which are well worth a visit too.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

 

The Vesak festival in the heart of Colombo – An eye-catching multicoloured spectacle

Posted on by

A main Buddhist religious festival celebrating the triple anniversary of Lord Buddha. In Sri Lanka, a majority Buddhist country, this festival brings about brightly lit streets full of creative and intricate lanterns to admire.

File:Colombo - Lake.jpg

Mayakaru at English Wikipedia, Colombo – Lake, CC BY 3.0

What is Vesak?
The birth, attainment of enlightenment and passing away into Nirvana are the three notable events that Vesak symbolizes. The day is spent in reflection, with devotees offering flowers, lighting lamps and burning incense in the name of God. Several traditional ceremonies occur throughout the island on and before the days leading to Vesak. The day of celebration varies each year.

How is it celebrated?
Numerous roadside stalls are erected in the evenings, distributing passers-by free drinks and refreshments! Performances and theatre performances close to various temples are a common sight during the season of Vesak. Beautifully designed bamboo lanterns adorn houses, Colombo hotels and the streets in most towns around the island! 5.3 kilometres from The Kingsbury Hotel you’ll find Bauddhaloka Mawatha, where the spectacle of Vesak is truly mesmerizing.

Where else is it celebrated?
Vesak is one of the most looked forward to the festival in the Buddhist Calendar. Buddhists all over the world commemorate this day and countries such as Sri Lanka, Japan, Nepal, Korea, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Bangladesh celebrate Vesak at a grand scale.

Celebrating Easter in Macau with family – The best Easter adventure yet

Posted on by

Easter is a tradition embedded in Macau’s history and culture, a festive affair celebrated widely across the city. Symbolizing a new beginning, Easter in Macau brings about a new hope.

Image result for Macau

Brenden Brain, Casino Lights In Macau, CC BY-SA 3.0

 

The traditions
During your holiday, step out of one of the luxury hotels in Macau and experience the traditions of Easter all around you! A strong Catholic presence is maintained in Macau, as many people travel to Macau for a significant religious experience. The most anticipated parts of Easter are the procession from the Cathedral across Senado square, St. Dominic’s Square, Travessa Do Bispo and back to the Cathedral. The cathedral is a 17-minute drive from Hotel Okura Macau. The Easter procession is one that represents reflection, giving you the chance to experience the true tradition of Easter in Macau.

The culture and cuisine
Another great way to celebrate Easter with your family is to enjoy the Easter Sunday brunch in Macau. You’ll have plenty of choices to choose from, depending on what you’re craving for. The joyful gathering is ideal for family gatherings. Interactive activities for children such as egg hunting, arts and crafts, games and so much more ways to celebrate the holiday.

History and Adventure
Macau displayed some of the best European architecture on Chinese territory and Easter in Macau is also a tribute to this. Create lasting memories with your children during the Easter season as Macau has numerous places for the perfect Easter holiday! The remarkable history and culture found in the heritage sites and attractions make this holiday quite an adventure!

 

A Cheerful Christmas in Bangkok City – Festive Cheer in the City of Angels

Posted on by

Planning to head to Bangkok this Christmas and wondering if the Thai capital will have a festive Christmassy cheer? The answer is a resounding “YES”! Here are some of the activities you can look forward to enjoying.

Catch the Special Christmas Trees & Lights

The city gets a Christmas makeover during the season and you can look forward to seeing a great many Christmas trees, lights and festive décor. Ratchadamri Road home to hotels the likes of Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel is a great place to see such decorations as are popular malls which include CentralWorld Square, Siam Paragon, MBK and Siam Discovery.

The Christmas Tree, Bell, Decorate A Christmas Tree

Visit the Festive Christmas Markets

During the season, you will also find colourful Christmas markets being set up, each offering lots of shopping opportunities. Highlights in the past include the German Christmas Market and the Great Gatsby Christmas Market, easy to reach if you are staying at a Siam hotel in Bangkok.

Wining and Dining

There is much fun to be had with loved ones in Bangkok during this time; hotels have special Christmas dinners and activities, while areas like Khao San Road and Thonglor feature bars that offer yuletide deals on drinks as well.

Wine, Glass, Alcohol, Glass Of Wine, Drink, Beverage

Reflecting on the True Meaning

Those looking to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas can look to visit one of the churches in Bangkok. The Holy Redeemer Church and the Anglican Christ Church are amongst the churches in the city which offer English services too.

File:Holy Redeemer Church Bangkok.JPG

Iloilo Wanderer, Holy Redeemer Church Bangkok, CC BY-SA 4.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

The Moon Cake Festival – “Reunion of both people and the moon”

Posted on by

Have you heard of the second grandest festival in China? Mid-Autumn Festival is simply a celebration of autumn fantasies with dazzling lanterns and colourful festivities. Do read on!

Image Credit-misbehave, Moon Cakes, CC BY 2.0

Overview

The Moon Cake Festival or the Mid-Autumn Festival has a rewarding history that runs back to 3000 years. This celebration was derived from the moon worship custom which was celebrated during the Shang Dynasty. According to the Chinese lunar calendar, the festival usually falls on the 15th day of the 8th month. From time immemorial, Chinese people used to pay homage to the moon praying for a good harvest.

Customs

On the evening of the festival day, usually, the Chinese people have a meal together with all the family members. Also, there’s a special ritual to pay sacrifices to the moon with a strong belief that moon in return will bring them good luck.

Colourful displays

The Chinese dragon dance is an important highlight of the festivities. The Dragon has an indivisible rapport with Chinese culture since it symbolizes power, wisdom and wealth. It is believed that this dragon dance has the power to chase away evil spirits! If you’re planning to visit China during this festival, reserve your stay prior to your visit at a Macau hotel the likes of Hotel Okura Macau, to witness the colourful lantern festival and many other celebrations.

Moon Cake

Moon Cakes are the must eat Mid-Autumn in China and you’ll come across these traditional Chinese pastries in almost all the houses. These cakes are round, symbolizing reunion and happiness.

Damon Starky is a creative nomadic travel writer, who is well informed and experienced on a wide range of interests that would connect to the needs of any type of traveller. Google+

Sinhala and Hindu New Year Celebrations in Colombo – Experience Festival in Sri Lanka

Posted on by

Celebrated during the auspicious month of April, the New Year Festival is a very important national holiday for both Sinhalese Buddhists and Tamil Hindus in Sri Lanka.

Who celebrates it

The solor festival is celebrated by both the Sinhala Buddhist and Tamil Hindu Communities.

File:A colorful Puthandu welcome to Sinhala and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka.jpg

Amila Tennakoon, A colorful Puthandu welcome to Sinhala and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka, CC BY 2.0

What it’s About

Unlike western celebration where the New Year is celebrated at midnight on 31st of December, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is determined by astrological signs and is celebrated when the sun moves from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries.

Traditional Customs and Rituals

The rituals and customs followed by the Sinhala Buddhist community are similar to those observed by the Tamil Hindus. A variety of rituals such lighting the fire in the hearth, preparing the customary dish of Kiribath, (Milk Rice), entering into the first monetary transaction are only some of the customs which are observed. A very important custom followed by both communities is to boil milk in a new clay pot facing an auspicious direction. Prosperity is symbolized when the milk overflows.

Food

Preparing various dishes and feasting with friends and family is very a important part of the Festival. Traditional sweetmeats such Kaung an oil cake of sorts and Kokis are some of the sweet meats prepared. If you happen to be in Colombo during the festival be sure to try them. Most Colombo city hotels including the likes of Colombo Court Hotel & Spa prepare spreads for their guests.

File:A food treats arrangement for Puthandu (Vaisakhi) Tamil Hindu New Year.jpg

Amila Tennakoon, A food treats arrangement for Puthandu (Vaisakhi) Tamil Hindu New Year, CC BY 2.0

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Tuna tossing festival, Port Lincoln – Smelling something fishy??

Posted on by
Tuna tossing Festival in Port Lincoln is the biggest celebration that is looked forward by the fishermen society of the city as well as spectators from around the world.

tuna fish

Tuna Fish – Photo via Good Free Photos


 

The start

 
The main livelihood of people in Port Lincoln is fishing. So the people look forward to celebrating their earnings every year in January by participating in the Tunarama Festival. The history of this festival dates back to 1962.
 

The festival

 
This unique festival is celebrated with colorful fireworks, dancing, and music. This is also one of the best food festivals in the world where spectators can visit the local places to eat and even do their retail shopping. This is often featured in many informative blogs such as The Dine and Wine.
 

World Championship Tuna Tossing Competition

 


 
The main component of the festival is the tuna tossing competition where competitors try to toss their fish as far as possible. There is even a different version of the competition created especially for small children using miniature fish, which is known as the Prawn Toss.
 

Telstra Street Procession

 
This is the most spectacular part of the festival. Participants dressed in bright and colorful costumes parade along the street with flamboyant vehicles and floats. There is even a competition for the Pageant Personality.

Check out other awesome festivals around the world while you’re here 🙂

Kandy Esala Perahera -A brightly lit religious affair

Phuket Vegetarian Festival – For purification of mind and body

Why ‘Holi’ festival brings so much fun for kids: The wonderful festival of colours.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Kandy Esala Perahera -A brightly lit religious affair

Posted on by

Kandy is one of the highly visited holiday destinations in Sri Lanka and you can see tourists out and about on most days of the year, but during the perahera season, literally, every Buddhist from all over Sri Lanka and the world come to Kandy, especially to the Dalada Maligawa.

Perahera

Perahera | Img. Courtesy: [Ashan96, Perahera1, CC BY-SA 4.0]

When does it happen?

The Esala full moon falls during the first week of July and the Perahera will begin on the last weekend of July and end ten days after. Getting in touch with a few local travel firms, for example, the Connaissance de Ceylan will help you plan your trip in perfection.

Beginning

The sole motive of this full moon festival is to get the blessings from the deities, for a good harvest in the year ahead. Carrying the tooth relic of Buddha, 10 days of ancient rituals, royally decorated elephants, drummers, and dancers create a breathtaking procession that begins on the streets of Kandy.

Destinations

The Esala Perahera includes five Peraheras; five processions from Kandy leave to the Dalada Maligawa, Natha, Lord Vishnu and Katharagama respectively. Lord Vishnu, the Hindu god, is considered to be the Guardian of Sri Lanka and the Hindu goddess of chastity, Pathini, gets the fourth and fifth Perahera, for being the goddess who blesses wars and victories.

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.

Google+

Celebrate this Ramadhan in Style with a Trip to Kuala Lumpur -Partake in Breaking Fast Traditions with Sumptuous Buffets

Posted on by

The religious observances associated with Ramadan are followed by all Muslims worldwide as a testament to their faith. Held during the ninth month on the Islamic calendar, this religious practice involves a month of fasting. The purpose behind this observance is to celebrate when the Quran was first revealed to Muhammad. Those who have heard of this religious observance would very well know of its religious significance. The period of Ramadan is usually around twenty-nine to thirty days, but this may vary based on when the crescent moon is sighted by religious officials. Those who wish to celebrate the festival of Ramadan can also do so by making a trip somewhere abroad. If you wish for a convenient and close by destination, you can always opt to visit Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia where you will be able to find stunning offers during Ramadan.

Resorts and hotels nowadays wish to provide tourists with an experience as opposed to merely a pleasant stay. Therefore, the concept of experiential hotels has really taken off in Malaysia. In line with this concept, certain chain hotels such as Berjaya Hotels and Resorts offer special experiences for Ramadan, in the form of a promising and delicious buffet which hopes to evoke the feel and ambience of a bazaar. At this bazaar, guests will be able to experience Malaysian cuisine in all its glory, but in a far more comfortable setting as opposed to a bazaar out in the streets. One of the highlights of the bazaar is expected to be a Kedah Claypot Fish Head Curry prepared using a recipe passed down for generations. At this Ramadan feast, one can expect several delicious Malay dishes as well as Ayam Goreng Uncle Bakri, Pucuk Manis Ubi Keledek, Lamb Biriyani and Cencaru Bakar.

A visit to Malaysia during this period will also give tourists a wonderful opportunity to witness how the locals observe the religious practices and gain an insight into their culture.

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+

Maldives Holidays and Festivals – Enjoy new experiences- indulge in relaxation

Posted on by

The Republic of Maldives is known for its natural beauty and if you are planning to visit this mesmerizing island you should also be aware of their holidays which revolve around and are influenced by the Islamic faith. Every religious festival and national occasions are celebrated with the same enthusiasm and a sense of unity emanates from these enthusiastic celebrations.

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Muslim calendar and Muslims fast for 30 days during this period and it is considered one of the most important events in this country. Maldives being a predominantly Muslim nation, the government offices in this country open between 9 am and 1.30 pm and private offices close by 3:00 pm. At the end of Ramadan, Eid festival is celebrated; this is the best feast of the year and the best time to explore the cultural splendours of Maldives’ religious faith.

The Kuda Eid Festival in Maldives is one of the famous and richly celebrated annual events in the Republic of Maldives. It is also known as Fithru Eid and marks the end of Ramadan fasting time that runs throughout an entire period of the month among the Muslims. Since Maldives is a Muslim country the Ramadan festival is celebrated grandly across the entire nation. The popular Kuda Eid Festival lasts for three continuous days.

Another one of the most important days in the calendar is the Independence Day. After 77 years as a British protectorate, The Maldives gained independence from the British on July 26, 1965. On this day islands are filled with performances, food and festivals, parades with natives from all walks of life rejoicing together. Kandolhu Island Maldives is one of the popular Maldives luxury resort has to offer during this festive time for visiting guests to stay and be part of this eventful national ceremony.

 

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+