Author Archives: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Faneuil Market Place – Where the old mingles with the new

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The Faneuil Market Place has been part of Boston’s historical landscape for centuries. Once completely rundown, this area has now been transformed into a shopping hub and a vibrant gathering spot for locals.


Though French in name the market place was once named by Forbes Traveller as one of 25 most visited sites in America. The satire of the area is constantly changing to attract the attention of its foreign as well as local visitors.


To date what stands as part of the original Faneuil Hall dates back to 1742, and the lower floors of the building provide visitors with an idea of its once active retail history. The building in the center is where the Quincy Market Colonnade is situated and it’s also here that tourist could feast on a selection of confectionaries and local cuisine.


A highlight of the Faneuil Market Place is the famed grasshopper weather vane. There are many stories that surround this little feature including one where knowledge of the weather vane was used as a test to distinguish between spies during America’s revolutionary period. Spies would be asked to name the object on Faneuil Hall. Those who couldn’t answer correctly were convicted as spies. Historically the site is also the place where famous speeches by Samuel Adams were made and is included as a stop on the tour called the ‘Freedom Trail’.


Shopping for souvenirs is absolutely ideal, as many shops offer plenty of options. The restaurants and bars that line the marketplace are more often than not bustling with people. The site is also a good place to observe and become familiar with local customs and lingo.


What’s special about the market is that it capitalizes on merchandise and food that is largely available ‘only in Boston’. For shoppers who are fond of rummaging around at chain stores, the market offers many to look through. Shoppers usually pick up unique little souvenirs and gifts under the canopies that read ‘Quincy Market’. The numerous push carts loaded with items are virtually spilling with little handicrafts and give-aways.


What adds to a good vacation is how the day ends and if tourists wish to pamper themselves at one of the many Boston luxury hotels, then there is much the city has to offer in terms of choice. Among those the more popular ones include The Langham Boston which caters to both business and leisure travelers alike. This luxury hotel in Boston is located in close proximity to the Faneuil Market Place, which makes exploring this site all the easier.

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Full Moon Parties – Party Till the Sun Comes up at Koh Samui’s Vibrant Full Moon Parties

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Full Moon Parties worldwide should take note as the signature event on Haad Rin beach in Koh Phangan is getting bigger and better each year with its ever increasing popularity among the globe’s party people. Having originated in the late 80’s the Full Moon party has evolved in size and scale from its early days when a group of tourists chose this crescent shaped venue for an intimate gathering on full mooned nights with music and friends. Tipped as the most spectacular location in Thailand from which to view the full moon, Koh Phangan continues to captivate revellers to this day when they flock to its white, sandy beaches for some harmless fun and frolic once a month.


Drawing crowds of up to 30,000 people a night the Full Moon Party is a jam-packed event filled with music from international and local DJ’s, UV painted multitudes and fantastic entertainment. Beginning in the crimson coloured hours of dusk the beachfront is lit up with dozens of lamps and lined with quaint tables for the party to follow. Next the dancing masses take centre stage as the revelers dance the night away to every conceivable genre of music spinning under the receding light of twilight. Whether it’s Trance, House, Techno, Reggae, Drum n Bass, Dub, Goa or pop hits the 15 sound systems strategically placed on Haad Rin beach will keep your toes tapping and grooving to the infectious rhythms of the night. Vibrant fireworks displays and jugglers are also scattered along the venue which is also lined with several eateries offering scrumptious snacks and meals amidst the breezy atmosphere of the beach. Those who wish to simply unwind with a refreshing beverage are also welcome to do so as the moonlit atmosphere along the Gulf of Thailand offer breathtaking vistas and the soothing rush of waves crashing against the shores. Home to a plethora of cosy beach bars such as the Cactus Bar, Green Mango Bar and Drop-In Bar other popular drinking venues in Haad Rin include Zoom, Boom Boom and the Vinyl Club while The Orchid is also frequented by regular full moon party attendees.


Those in search of a breathtaking hideaway hotel in Koh Samui will be more than pleasantly surprised at the Anantara Bophut, Koh Samui. Ideally situated in tranquil Fisherman’s Cove along Bo Phut beach it is little wonder that this traditional Thai style rest is considered one of the most captivating Koh Samui hotels in Thailand.

Bastakia Quarter – Unfolding the Architectural Brilliance of Bastakia Quarter

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Nestled amidst its lavish and plush surroundings, there are many attractions that one could witness in Dubai. Strolling around the streets lined with skyscrapers, one could find many museums and galleries, where the city’s history and artistic talent could be vividly seen. Offering more than a handful of places of interest to visit, adventurous travellers and those who simply wish to sit back and relax have many options to choose from making the city one of the best tourist destinations in the world.

However, there is another side to the city that most do not see. Perhaps its most underrated attraction, it’s cultural and heritage sites are as charming as the metropolis’ impressive surroundings. Visiting these sites cemented in the rich and exotic Arab culture are worthy of a visit as the heritage and cultural sites explore the history of the emirate, which was once a pearl-diving town.

Bastakia Quarter is perhaps its main historic and cultural site amongst the many that are spread out in the city. Deemed as an authentic birthright site, the historical architectural brilliance was built in the 19th century. As one of the prominent sites, it is located in Bur Dubai, next to the Creek. History has it that it was built by Persian traders, who had made their living by dealing with textiles and pearls. However, as the city gained a reputation for having a plethora of pearls, the merchants migrated in hope to carry on their business in the tax-free trade economy that existed during the time. Building settlements along the Creek, the Persian merchants used limestone and coral to build their homes.

Since then, Bastakia Quarter has remained as an important architectural settlement in the city and was declared as a conversation area by the Dubai Municipality. The organization undertook the responsibility of restoring a number of homes that have been damaged over the years and changed it back to its previous glory.

Presently, it is the most serene places in the region. Having a picturesque surrounding, Bastakia Quarter attracts many travellers, especially those who are interested in experiencing the ancient settlements in the city. One of the highlights whilst travelling around the area belongs to the distinct style of the houses. Small in comparison, the houses showcase a unique architecture, encompassing the iconic wind catchers and courtyards, most common in the houses that existed during the time. The wind catchers were used by locals as a ventilation device for many centuries and as a traditional air conditioning method. This aesthetic feature has acted as a defining structure in identifying the city’s architecture, a style that can still be seen in numerous structures.

When searching for a Dubai airport hotel, one should consider in Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. Offering the best Dubai hotel deals, guests staying in this hotel will be amidst the city’s major tourist attractions such as shopping malls and entertainment destinations.

Golden Dragon Dance – Spinning and twirling, let the Golden Dragon Dance mesmerise you

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On the northeast side of Tokyo lies a small sea side village known as Asakusa. This village was established in the 7th century. The story goes that two fishermen out at sea one day found not fish but a small golden statue in their fishing nets. This Buddhist statue was that of the deity Kannon. Kannon was revered as a deity of compassion.


On this auspicious day which was the 18th of March 628, a Golden Dragon appeared above the village in the sky to mark the finding of this statue.


Dragons are popular among Asian nations, and unlike their Western counterparts are usually serpentine in appearance, wingless, and comparatively benevolent. Of these the golden ones are a rare breed and are not seen easily as they are invisible.


The appearance of this Golden Dragon in the village of Asakusa, together with the finding of the golden statue catapulted this village to fame. The enshrined statue in the Sensoji Temple grew in importance and popularity whilst becoming a famous pilgrim’s spot.


Thereafter every year, a special Golden Dragon Dance is held to commemorate the visitation of the original dragon nearly 1300 years ago. This dance dragon weighs only 75 kilos and is around 15 meters in length, whereas its live counterpart was thought to be over 30 meters long.


The dragon dances thrice before it disappears from public view until the next year. This dragon is held up on poles and is manoeuvred by 8 men. Whilst the dragon dances, ladies attired as geishas use traditional instruments to play music.


Visitors to Tokyo during this period should not pass up the opportunity to be a part of this interesting Golden Dragon Dance Festival, as it is truly a memorable experience. If the visitor is looking for a Tokyo serviced apartment from which to base themselves, then the Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo is one exceptional choice offering some of the finest service apartments Tokyo.

Nightlife in Bali – Music and Ambience to Suit Every Taste

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The name Bali conjures up images of magnificent sunsets, sculpted paddy fields, smiling people, sun-kissed beaches, azure waters and promises of a perfect holiday by the sea – and rightly so. Rustic charm combined with all the right ingredients of modern day comforts can be expected in this island of hedonistic pleasures that was once used by Thai royalty for as a summer resort.


Nightlife is Bali is just what you would expect it to be – loud, vibrant and great fun. But for those who prefer a more leisurely approach to nocturnal escapes would discover that the night markets are open for some late evening shopping and numerous restaurants are open catering to even the most discerning. To add a splash of culture to your nightlife in Bali, make sure to watch the traditional dance called kecak.


Known to be the cultural centre of Bali, Ubud is famous for its performances of the traditional dance kecak. Pura Dalem on Jalan Raya has one of the best evening performances in town every Friday and Monday evening. Staged under majestic banyan trees, visitors will be awed as the performers weave native folklore stories in dance form. The fire dance at the end is a theatrical touch, a perfect ending to the show. Puri Saren & Puri Saraswati at the very centre of Ubud also has nightly performances of this traditional dance form.


For the traveller who likes nothing more than being immersed in the exotic nightlife experience that Bali is more famous for, there are several beaches and areas to visit. The most famous areas for nightlife in Bali are Kuta Beach and Seminyak Beach. Kuta will offer you a range of clubs and bars that are packed with party-goers. For those looking to dance the night away, its best to start your night late, as things get in to full swing only closer towards midnight. Find an array of clubs that many boast unique soirees and spin out music of different genres to suit the masses.


Seminyak takes a more refined approach to Kuta Beach nightlife. Many of the clubs have international DJs who churn out amazing tunes from their turntables.


Of the many bars and clubs available, one that truly stands out is Ku De Ta. Situated along the beach, the list of fine wines and exotic cocktails is truly tempting and worth a try. Ku De Ta also offers a restaurant section which has a famous blend of Australian and Asian cuisine.


While cruising the precinct of Seminyak, step inside the French owned bar Bahiana, a charming salsa bar whose decor is inspired by Cuba, that hosts weekly theme parties. Other popular bars along the coast of Seminyak include Sunset on Seminyak, Kudos Lounge & Bar, Q Bar, Hypnotique Cocktail Bar &Lounge, Hu’u Bar, Obsession World Music Bar and Galaxy Nightclub & Bar.


Looking for a centrally placed Bali luxury resort? For those who wish to remain close to popular nightlife districts such as Seminyak, Anantara Seminyak, Bali is an ideal choice. This luxurious Bali resort not only offers a central location to explore the area, but also world-class accommodation.

The M1 Singapore fringe festival –The core of arts

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Once you look beyond the surface you’ll discover that Singapore is anything but dull or uninteresting. It is wealthy of a blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese and western cultures. Known as one of the world’s most prosperous countries, Singapore is a place where mostly traffic jams are non-existent and the population looks wholesome and clean-cut and it delivers stylish, innovative restaurants and the best shopping of Southeast Asia. And when you need a little break from the urban confines, there is an abundance of radiant reservoirs and leafy swathes in the centre of the island.


Singapore is the host of the annual M1 Singapore Fringe Festival which is about music, theatre, dance, mixed media and visual arts created and presented by international and Singaporean artists. The festival carries a different theme each year aiming to offer the best of cutting-edge, contemporary and socially engaged creations to its international audience. This event is serves as a creative hub, with the purposes of discussion and innovation; a platform for provocative and meaningful art to be noticed and admired.


The event promises a variety of ticketed and free artistic exchanges and interactive events, dance, covering music, theatre and visual arts followed by talk-back sessions with the artists. The festival’s rational motto is “Art teaches nothing except the significance of life” and it brings radical art to venues throughout Singapore. This fantastic thought-provoking feast was created with the culture vultures in mind.


The theme of the festival in 2010 was ‘Art and the Law’, whilst in 2011 it was ‘Art and education’ and in 2012 it will be ‘Art and religion’, looking for creations in disciplines that will suit the theme perfectly. This is a volunteer driven festival featuring the participation of people with a keen interest in the arts and in meeting people, whilst a prior experience in arts is an added advantage.


The traveller to this fair sunny isle in the tropics have a plethora of accommodation choices, And for a Singapore hotel reservation, do some online research and make your pick, whereas Copthorne King’s Hotel Singapore, the 4-star boutique hotel Singapore can be highly recommended.

Sigatoka Sand Dunes: A Blend of Nature and History

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Among the numerous natural attractions of Fiji, one that tops the list is its splendid stretch of sand dunes that lies along the Coral Coast. The Sigatoka Sand Dunes that can be found directly along the mouth of the Sigatoka River is rated as one of the most famous and they are positioned around 3 kilometres from the town of Sigatoka.


The biggest river in Fiji is the Sigatoka River and the sand dunes are the result of coastal dune forming processes and corrosion in the coastal hinterland. The widespread dune system occupies an area of 650 hectares and consists of a series of shifting sands of different ages and actions. The height of the sand dunes varies from approximately 20 to 60 metres.


For more than a million years the sand dunes have been forming. Therefore the site has always been a haven for researches and archaeological excavationists. Pottery relics which are over 2600 years old have been discovered from the site of the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. One of the biggest burial sites in the Pacific has also been uncovered here. Other archaeological relics such as machinery, human remains and stone tools continue to be unearthed at the site of this major natural and historical attraction.


Almost 50 percent of the area is unbalanced, particularly in the east. However new village communities continue to blossom around the Sigatoka Sand Dunes. There are also numerous luxury accommodation in Yanuca Island for those who wish to observe, explore and discover the famous and significant Sigatoka Sand Dunes. Scientists, researchers and even leisure travellers can easily plan their stay at a nearby Yanuca Island resort and further explore this unmatched historical site. For example, Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort and Spa, Yanuca, Fiji Islands offers the vacationer of any age a supreme tropical escape.

Auckland Arts Festival 2011 – The celebration of arts in one fabulous festival

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The Auckland Arts Festival explores the universe of possibilities under the human imagination and their expression through art. Since its inauguration in 2003, the festival has become a premier attraction not only for the city but for the region. The festival consists of a range of arts well spiced with different flavours of the world making it extremely palatable, hugely entertaining and widely stimulating for a broad minded audience.


This year’s festival is going to even surpass expectations. The themes which encompass the infinite universe of the human imagination and the thrill of discovery and travelling to exotic worlds of art undoubtedly sound promising. The different segments range from Theatre, Music and Dance to Art. As for the actual items, Douglas Wright’s dance act is sure to be one stunning masterpiece that is going to be as thrilling as predicted. On a different note special acts from Vietnam as well as India are designed for Eastern preferences with the latter featuring mellow, tantalizing Rajastani music that never goes out of style or mind. From the ancient folk dance water puppetry of Vietnam, there is a bigger shift of pace to the highly sophisticated seductive cabaret that is aptly called smoke and mirrors with its seductive, smoky and spellbinding brilliant performances. From the ‘sound of the ocean’ that is a much acclaimed global masterpiece to the folk dance and contemporary melodies of China to India’s famous classicals, the music is going to be raw and original and in its very unfamiliarity delightful and appealing.


The festival spans over several days and it would indeed be an equally glorious experience to stay over at an Auckland hotel with a central location and reputed quality of services and comforts. Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City has that distinct advantage of not only being within easy reach of the central business district, but also having a magnificent view of the harbour through each of its guest rooms. Rated as a four star Qualmark hotel, this is one superb Auckland New Zealand hotel to reside in while visiting the city during the festival days.

Singapore Zoo – The Wonderful Display of Wildlife

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Housing over 2,500 animals of 315 species, the Singapore Zoo is located in an environment representing a rainforest. Inspiring visitors by letting them experience the wonders of nature; the zoo has gained a favourable reputation locally and internationally. Its efforts to provide the best healthcare for the animals and initiatives taken for conservation and breeding programmes are highly admired. It is an award winning zoo granting an experimental learning experience. The governing authority has designated the zoo as a rescued wildlife centre.


Plenty of shows take place at the zoo to entertain and educate the visitors whilst maintaining the animals’ natural behaviours and instincts through activities which they hope will deepen their understanding towards the creatures. Three special animal presentations namely Splash Safari, Rainforest Fights Back and Elephants at Work and Play take place at least twice per day daily. It displays the inimitable bond between the animals and their trainers.


At ‘Australian Outback’, you get to meet the marsupial that glides; a special lizard and a bird that tends to swallow metallic objects to help its food get grinded. But undoubtedly the most special creature here is the Kangaroo. Agile wallabies and grey kangaroos skip about freely letting guests have an up close encounter, particularly during feeding-sessions.


At Cat Country, guests are seen having face-to-face encounters with big cats such as leopard and jaguar. A rare unforgettable experience, one can surely enjoy the time spent at the glass-fronted enclosures containing the fierce cats.


Elephants of Asia is arguably a must visit at the zoo, where there is a showcase of the great mammal living in a vicinity. The attraction contains a bathing pool, a mud wallow, rustic thatched huts and a viewing loft with Myanmar-influenced architecture.


A number of other interesting places in the zoo include the fragile forest, Reptile garden, Primate Kingdom, Critters Longhouse, Wild Africa and more. The zoo’s enchanting tropical rainforest environment itself offers a sensational experience.


Travellers to this vibrant country seeking Singapore boutique hotels have to wonder no more. Hotel Fort Canning Singapore boasting state-of-the-art amenities complete with impeccable service will cater to all your needs. This marvel of a boutique hotel in Singapore is located amidst the luxuriant greenery of a historical park with panoramic views.

Kuala Lumpur Night Life – The Nocturnal Vibe of Kuala Lumpur

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Kuala Lumpur among other things is famous for its nocturnal vibe. With an assortment of venues open till late at night, the nightlife in Kuala Lumpur is anything but dull. Often the party starts at 10:00pm, the venues filled with people of all ages, where the rhythm and the excitement of the crowd are almost tangible.


The night life in Kuala Lumpur includes a variety of things to do. Visiting the bustling ‘pasar malam’ (night market) is one of them. Not only is it a shopper’s paradise but is also an excellent place to socialize while savoring delicious hawker food and sipping on your favourite beverage.


The Golden Triangle, the commercial hub of the city is a thriving area for bars and night clubs. Some of the popular bars are; El Nino, themed around Latin-American music and culture, The Citrus Rouge, a place to enjoy a whiff of a cigar, fabulous cocktails, an active dance floor with live jazz music; and Bravo, a bar cum cafe with many small dance floors and a sprinkling of pool tables. The Beach Club Café is another party place with cheap drinks and a buzzing atmosphere.


If you’re looking for a place to go dancing, Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock Café is a must-visit. The Embassy, Emporium and Zouk are a few other clubs that offer some of the hottest DJ music, cocktails and dance floors that allow you to let your hair down.


Live music in Kuala Lumpur usually means one thing: karaoke. The city is overrun with places where you can sing to the tunes of golden oldies and many contemporary songs that are sure to keep you entertained.


When exploring the variety of nightlife in Kuala Lumpur, a Kuala Lumpur luxury hotel such as the Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, will provide you with a safe and comfortable place to unpack and hit the hot spots of Kuala Lumpur.