Author Archives: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Aesthetic Connections – Arts and Crafts in Si Kao

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Famous for its 5 km long crescent shaped beach and the many secluded beaches on wooded limestone islands close by, Si Kao is never far away from some of the key attractions in the area such as limestone caves, pristine forests and the marine wildlife park. Part of the Trang Province, Si Kao comprises of 21 of the 46 islands that make up the province. Added to its natural beauty Si Kao is part of the rich cultural heritage of Thailand that dates back several hundred years with artistic traditions that have been handed down through the generations.

Intertwined with religion and ritual, Manor Nora or Chakri, the traditional dance drama of Southern Thailand is one that many visitors get to see in Si Kao. The graceful stylized movements, particularly the hand movements of the female dancers with their long curved elongated nails, the colourful costumes and traditional songs performed to the accompaniment of cymbals, drums, Java pipes and castanets contribute to the visual and auditory experience provided by these inimitable dances. There are 12 poses and 17 movements of the dance of which various combinations are performed at different occasions as appropriate. There is even a modernized version made more palatable to visitors. Shadow plays, a popular theatrical tradition in Si Kao feature well loved figures in dramas such as lords, ladies, giants and clowns, cut out from animal hide and held up behind a lighted screen to create shadows which are manipulated by a puppeteer who also describes the action in song. Traditional musical instruments add the required noise and excitement to the performance. Shadow plays are a feature at temple fairs and rural celebrations and tend to go on all night. ‘Li Kae Pa’ is another form of popular traditional drama where only three performers enact a whole drama clad in colourful and varied costumes to the accompaniment of gongs, cymbals, pipes and tambourines.

Long known for their craftsmanship the traditional crafts of the area are still very much alive. While providing interesting shopping options for visitors they also showcase the skill of rural crafts people. Products that were made from natural materials of the locality for daily use of rural folk are now popular souvenirs. Mats with intricate geometric designs and colourful inserts woven from pandanus, containers called ‘muk’ to store miscellaneous items, sting ray leather products particularly shoes and bags, baskets for various uses, handbags and hats made of cattail reed stems, carved religious and other statuary are some of these. Products made from Thep Tharo scented wood with insect and ant repelling properties, rubber wood toys, batik cloth as well as hand woven and dyed colourful traditional damask cloth are some of the most popular products of the area. Local women’s groups still maintain this weaving heritage, contributing to the host of products that provide interesting browsing among the handicraft shops in Si Kao.

Enjoy the luxury and comfort of Anantara Si Kao Thailand enhanced by the amazing natural beauty of the location. Equipped with a series of well appointed, spacious family oriented rooms and suites this Krabi resort hotel is never far away from the white sandy beaches, clear blue water and year round gorgeous weather – the components for ideal beach holidays. This one of the exceptional Krabi resorts sets the tone for memorable stays with access to plenty of water based action, excellent food and beverage options, great service, the amenities and refinements of a luxury hotel enveloped in the relaxing ambience so necessary for a rejuvenating holiday.

Nightclubs Guide to Bangkok!

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The energetic nightlife scene in Bangkok offers plenty of thrills for die hard clubbing enthusiasts who have a wide range of eclectic clubs to choose from. One of the best areas to party at night is RCA, a special nightlife zone that is home to clubs that host international DJs and live concerts. 808, Overtone Music Cave, Inch and Route 66 are among the popular clubs in the area. Those planning a club hopping tour of the city can also head to such nightlife hotspots as Q Bar and Bed Supperclub in Sukhumvit, while not to be missed are Khao San Road’s Café Democ, Lava and Immortal.
Those in search of a centrally located serviced apartment Bangkok from which to explore the capital’s nightlife can stay at Anantara Baan Rajprasong Bangkok. Each of these Bangkok serviced apartments come with contemporary comforts and conveniences and offer easy access to the city’s business and leisure hubs.

Nightlife In Wuxi – Have a Thrilling Time

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Wuxi is a metropolitan city located in the southern part of China’s Jiangsu Province. It is a little over a hundred kilometres from the bustling city of Shanghai which lies to the east. Wuxi is bounded by Lake Taihu to the south and the Yangtze River to the north. The city itself is networked with little canals and waterways that make the land extremely fertile. In fact, Wuxi is referred to as the ‘Land of Fish and Rice’. Endowed with a rich history, there are many monuments and museums here that are worth visiting. Wuxi is considered one of the ten best tourist cities in China, partly due to its rich heritage and culture and partly due to its modern infrastructure and nightlife.

While some might say that the nightlife in Wuxi is up and coming, others would argue that it has already arrived. Bars and nightclubs are still a new phenomenon in the city, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. The newness fuels the excitement and the energy, and has brought about delightful and unique innovations. The nightspots are usually frequented by expats and tourists, although they are gaining popularity among the locals as well. 

Some of the best clubs and bars are located along the popular Zhongshan Road, and more can be found along Wuai Square. Of course none of them can be compared to 1912 Street, dubbed appropriately enough the ‘1912 Wuxi Bar Leisure Corridor’. 1912 Street is located along a canal and contains a number of unique bars and nightclubs and offer visitors a multitude of choices. There are at least twenty different themed bars. The most popular are Jason’s Bar, the Beatles Music Nightclub (for those feeling a little nostalgic), Marceau Bar and Soho Bar. 

Wuxi is an important hub for industry and commerce and the local infrastructure, such as public transport, is excellent. Tourists can make travel even easier by finding a hotel in Wuxi with a central location. A place like the Millennium Wuxi offers delightful accommodation in the heart of the city, while providing a sanctuary free from the noise and crowd. The Wuxi hotel is just a stone’s throw away from a number of good restaurants and nightspots.

Zouk Out

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Considered to be one of the biggest dance music festivals in Asia, Zouk Out in Singapore attracts large crowds from all corners of the world. This major annual event has featured performances by Stereo MCs, Armin Van Buuren, James Lavelle, Peter Kruder, Sven Väth, Richie Hawtin, Gilles Peterson, Masters at Work, 2ManyDJS and Paul Van Dyk. Having three times won the “Best Leisure Event Experience” award offered by Singapore Tourism Board, Zouk Out received its largest turnout of people amounting to 26,000 in 2008. To enjoy an exceptional Singapore hotel promotion, choose M Hotel Singapore for your accommodation needs.  Pampering you with exemplary comforts and service it is highly preferred Singapore city hotel.

Chinese Acrobat Ballet – Adding a new twist to a mundane dance routine

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Chinese Acrobatic Ballet is a combination of the ballet classic “Swan Lake”, which is woven around a story involving a princess and her prince, and traditional Chinese acrobatics. Comparable to ballet which is dished out the world over, Chinese Acrobatic Ballet is one of the most gracious and artistic dance forms seen today.  This acrobatic version of Tchaikovsky’s ballet-classic, Swan Lake personifies power; grace and perfection of China’s acrobatic traditions add a totally new facet to this classic ballet by portraying something very different.
The highlight of Chinese Acrobat ballet is that actors can execute more intricate performances in the air, rather than limiting the dancers to the floor. Together with a mix of traditional classic ballet and daring   acrobatic presentations, it has earned critical acclaim from audiences. Their show Acrobatic Swan Lake was a hit in China and became a spectacle around the world. (150 performances were booked in Vegas alone), ample proof of its appeal across geographical borders. The play is adored by the many for its unique sequence of ballet and melody.

The world famous Guangdong Acrobatic Troupe of China founded in 1951 is China’s leading acrobatic company. They are credited for introducing Chinese Acrobat Ballet which has been applauded by the dance affectionnadoes around the world. The company entices its audiences through an astonishing production which push their imagination to the limits. It is an electrifying presentation of traditional Chinese folk acrobatics within a lively modern perspective.

The storyline of the Chinese Acrobat Ballet, Swan Lake varies slightly from traditional version. The four swans that are depicted in the traditional version are swapped by quartet of tiny frogs, effortlessly performed by four boys.  To make it further intriguing and challenging, they play amazing dance routines on the podium arousing indescribable interest in the audience.

The crowd participation at acrobatics shows have been dwindling for years, until the advent of the acrobatic version of “Swan Lake” which has brought this type of performance back to vogue.

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Bangkok Nightlife – Party Rocking Till the Break of Dawn!

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When the sun goes down on Bangkok, the Thai capital comes alive as its many night time entertainment centres and dining venues come alive and offer a truly energetic nightlife experience. One area popular for its lively nightlife is Khao San Road which is home to an eclectic mix of bars, eateries and roadside vendors. Ratchadapisek or RCA is an area popular with the younger crowd looking to enjoy a modern clubbing experience, while Ratchaprasong is also a famous haunt amongst partygoers. Chidlom is a more upscale area where one can find elegant wine bars and restaurants. Travellers interested in seeing the city in a whole new perspective can enjoy Bangkok cruises such as those offered by Anantara Bangkok Cruises Thailand. This Bangkok cruise tour offers luxurious accommodation and journeys to famous city landmarks.

Nightlife in Guangzhou – Partying After Dusk!

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Guangzhou is a much preferred destination in China for those seeking an entertaining and interesting nightlife. With trends from all over the world pouring in and with the city continuing its trend of modernization, it now features a range of pubs, restaurants, cinemas, coffee houses and various other attractions that give one a diverse array of lively venues which to visit once the sun has set.

For those preferring a relaxing evening the best option would be a boat ride on the Zhujiang Yeyou. Also known as the ‘Pearl River Night Cruise’ this is the ideal way to explore the various attractions located along the banks of the river as well as to view the beauty of Guangzhou by night. For a cultural exploration and to experience the aesthetics of the Orient, try the Cantonese Opera. Locally known as Yue Ju it is a style of opera popular in this area and it is sung in a traditional dialect. The melodies and tempos are soothing and harmonious and provide one with an interesting way of experiencing the vivid culture of Guangzhou.

Bars and pubs are a plenty in this city and one can easily find one that suits the mood as well as the pocket. From the most exotic to the very casual, all pubs and bars let one enjoy a good evening of fun. Most of the pubs boast an authentic Chinese atmosphere but there are a few of those that feature a more western setting. The city also features a couple of cinemas where one can take in the latest movies.

Being a busy town, Guangzhou offers much to see at night and the beautiful setting it affords after sunset provides the ideal time to explore and experience this fascinating nightlife. It features a range of lodging options and depending on your requirements and budgets one can find accommodation in different parts of the city. For those keen on long stays the luxury serviced apartments Guangzhou has on offer are ideal. Ascott Guangzhou is one such serviced apartment Guangzhou which offers the very best in contemporary comforts and helps one enjoy a truly memorable stay.

Uncover Abu Dhabi’s Premier Contemporary Art Space at the Prestigious Salwa Zeidan Gallery

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Tipped to be the country’s foremost art institution cum exhibition space, the Salwa Zeidan Gallery is an iconic edifice at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity. Having opened its doors to the public in 1994 this one of a kind gallery was reopened as recently as 2009 under the royal patronage of HRH Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. Renowned throughout the Gulf as the region’s premier art space for contemporary art, the venue takes pride in displaying the works of the Middle East’s finest artists while nurturing emerging talent within the UAE and its neighbouring countries. Showcasing various modes of contemporary artistic expression, the venue displays paintings, photography collections, sculptures, installations and performance art pieces, while organizing cultural activities the likes of poetry readings and workshops on various art forms.

As a globally recognized curator of individual and collaborative exhibits in association with other world renowned galleries, the venue is a visual treasure trove for art lovers exploring Abu Dhabi. Having served as the venue of choice for Art Dubai 2011, Abu Dhabi Artfair 2010, the Dropping Lines’ Contemporary Emirati Art Show and Abu Dhabi Art 2009 Exhibition, the Salwa Zeidan Gallery has also hosted prestigious events such the Abu Dhabi International Sculpture Symposium in past years.

Apart from displaying the works of reputed Middle Eastern masters the likes of Hassan Sharif, Rose Husseiny, Nedim Kufi and Mohammed Kazem, exhibits by Fatema Al Mazrouie and Kourosh Salehi were also showcased at the venue along with the highly documented Abdul Badi Abdul-Musawwir Solo Exhibition. Highlights at the venue include works by foreign artists such as Yoshin Ogata, Gheorghi Filin, John Van Alstine and Caroline Ramersdorfer, while photographic collections by local greats Kourosh Salehi and Omar Zeidan are also on show at the gallery. International photographers exhibiting their work at the locale include Billy Lee, Vincent Sannier, Rita Grosse-Ruyken and George Lewis.

Travellers on the lookout for elegant Abu Dhabi hotels in the Liwa Desert should look no further than Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Set within a resplendent oasis surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this stylish rest is one of the most picturesquely located Abu Dhabi luxury hotels in the area.

Entertainment in Metro Manila

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Composed of several cities, the urban area known as Metro Manila is a vibrant destination home to numerous entertainment facilities. Visit the iconic public promenade, Rizal Park featuring an array of points of interest. You can savour Asian and Filipino cuisine at the seafood restaurants found here. For an extraordinary shopping experience, stop by at one of this area’s glamorous malls. Experience the unique vibrancy and culture of Metro Manila during your holiday in Philippines. As for accommodation, an ideal choice is The Heritage Hotel Manila. A renowned hotel in Manila, it boasts elegant comforts and modern conveniences, emerging as an exceptional Manila hotel.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre – For a Complete Cultural Experience in Hanoi

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The concept of water-puppetry is unique to Vietnam, and a traditional water-puppet show is a must for all visitors to the country. This form of art is very entertaining and it is also the ideal way to experience the culture and aesthetics of the country.

The tradition of Water Puppetry evolved in Vietnam way back in the 11th Century. Most of the original concepts of this form of art came from the northern Red River Delta Area and it all began with the flooding of their rice fields and where villages needed a form of entertainment to keep them busy when they could no longer work on the their paddy fields. As normal puppetry was anyway part of their culture, the village folk used the water on the rice fields as a unique form of stage to share their folktales with the others.
Today, just as they have done for centuries, the puppets are made out of wood and their features are emphasized using coloured lacquer paint. But Instead of a flooded paddy field the modern version uses a waist-deep pool filled with water. A large stick is used to support the character on the pool which gives an illusion of characters gliding over water, and the puppeteers remain behind a screen manipulating the scenes. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a leader in this type of entertainment.
Background music is generally provided by a traditional Vietnamese orchestra where the instruments include, cymbals, drums, wooden bells, gongs, horns and bamboo flutes. Each instrument is used to depict a particular mood in the story.  Background singing is also used to support the story-telling. And the culture of this water puppetry is such that the puppets are treated like real life beings and there is even impromptu interaction amongst the musicians and the puppets during the show, which makes it even more interesting and entertaining.

A traditional water-puppet show is a must for those visiting Hanoi. They are ideal for all ages and you can easily get a ticket for one of these shows through your Hanoi accommodation provider. For those seeking the best location in town Hanoi apartments in Hoan Kiem Business District serve well. If your idea of a holiday in Vietnam includes all the luxuries and modern amenities try Somerset Grand Hanoi.