Author Archives: maggie

During the Kite Festival –True Balinese Fun

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As the bright blue sky fills up with a myriad of colors and shapes, a sense of joy dawns upon the entire village. Young, old, rich poor step out to their porches to witness this beauty.

Cheers of competitors echo through the streets and the sense of thrill and happiness in this event is infectious. There is only one event that brings out such a lot of spirit; it is none other than the Bali Kite Festival. Every year Sanur Beach booms with life as the Kite competition takes place and every year the vigor is the same; the fun is the same and every year tourists are drawn to this little beach to bask in the spirited ambience of this festival.

The kites you will find in this festival are certainly something to awe. Some of them are so enormous that they actually block out chunks of the sky. Many a times you may wonder how they actually stay up in the sky. As the kites of many shapes and colors soar up in the sky, traditional music is played in the background. As with most other occasions in Bali, kite flying also has a religious significance to it. The tradition actually began as a means to pass messages to the Gods and even today you find some traditional Kites. The ones that are shaped as birds and fish are actually those that depict Hindu deities. At every point of the festivals prayers are chanted for luck in this game and luck throughout the year.

The Bali Kite Festival is one occasion that is actually a whole load of fun. The atmosphere is full of good cheer, free flowing beer and cheap food. It is one place to get a glimpse of traditional Bali that is exhibited by the many traditional costumes, tales and rituals.
After all that fun you are sure to experience at the kite festival, come home to the Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. The luxury you experience at Anantara is always un matched. From all the Uluwatu Hotels, it is always the first choice. The comfort and services you get here makes it also the best of all the Bali Resorts.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

Dubai Summer Surprises 2013 – for the family and the shopaholic alike

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Dubai Summer Surprises also known as DSS was commenced in 1998, in order to promote Dubai as a summer attraction for tourists from world over. Over the years it has gained much in popularity and today, it is one of the biggest highlights in the summer calendar in Dubai. Since it is an annual fest, not only foreigners but also locals eagerly look forward to this occasion and wait to get great bargains at more than 6,000 shops and other establishments during this time.

For the last fourteen years it has become well known around the world as a boundless shopping festival that attracts many shopaholics and families for a superb break during summer. It is regarded to be the biggest fiesta that is held in this part of the globe and it is said that more than 2.2 million people have attended this occasion. If you are wondering where it takes place, there is no better way to explain it rather than say that the festival takes place in the whole of Dubai.

It is not only an event for the shopaholic to look forward to strike great bargains; there is much to look forward to for children and families as well. The occasion has a children’s area called Modesh World and also a mascot by the name Modhesh and there are many events geared for kids to have a fun filed time during this period. There are separate areas for toddlers, young children and older kids and these diverse play areas offer numerous play activities and even a cinema for children. For a family with young ones this is sure to be a fun filled and an amazing holiday.

In addition to the Modesh World for kids, there are a number of other attractions for the grown-ups ranging from entertainment shows, concerts, countless shopping promotions and even the chance to win many prizes and surprises when one shops at various establishments.

The UAE hotels and the Middle East hotels, such as Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East are usually bustling with guests during this season and it is advisable to book your accommodation early if you plan to attend this festival.

 

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Phuket Fantasea Show – Flamboyant Cultural Theme Park

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Phuket is an island with many colourful cultural attractions. An ideally located Phuket resort will let you explore all the top tourist attractions in the island and experience every exciting cultural event. Millennium Resort Patong Phuket is one of the top Patong resorts that would offer you a perfect relaxing holiday experience. One of the must visit sites when holidaying in Phuket is Fantasea Show which displays a rich cultural heritage of the country. With the incorporation of the advanced technology and effects, Phuket Fantasea Show boasts many a vibrant shows and segments including Fantasy of a Kingdom Culture Illusion Show, Palace of the Elephant and Carnival Village. This exciting theme park promises to bring joy to the whole family regardless the age and preferences and you could also enjoy other facilities such as Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant and Suriyamas Seafood Buffet Restaurant when you visit the place.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

Thai Cultural Shows – Glimpse of a rich cultural heritage!

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Thailand never fails to surprise its visitors with these most vibrant Thai cultural shows which would also give a chance to the holiday-makers in the country to get a glimpse of this rich cultural heritage. Some of the Thai cultural shows that a traveller should not miss out are Siam Niramit, Thai Classical Dance Drama, Thai Mask Dance, Thai Village Shows, ancient sword fights and Thai Puppet Shows.

Siam Niramit is a traditional Thai performance presented with the participation of more than 150 traditional performers on a huge stage along with many sound and lighting effects. There are 500 numerous colourful costumes being used during these shows. Siam Niramit is a magnificent opportunity for anyone who is visiting this great enchanted kingdom to get a glimpse of its world-class cultural performance. This breathtaking performance has now even managed to sail into the lists in the Guinness World Records!

Thai Puppetry is another must experienced cultural performance when you are visiting Bangkok. It has been a part of Thai cultural heritage for many long years. “Hung Luang” is the name of the very first puppet performance and it is also widely known as Royal Puppetry. Puppet shows in Thailand were originally performed as a Royal show during functions of the King of Ayutthaya. Thai puppetry evolved throughout many years and there are various other categories such as stick puppets, small puppets and so on. Aksra theatre is one of the popular places where you can head down to enjoy an exquisite puppet show.

One of the finest cultural shows one can experience in Thailand is Thai Mask Dance Drama. In these traditional dance acts, performers need to wear masks and each of these mask represents a specific character in the story. These cultural shows are regarded as both dance and drama, as none of the actors speak but give away their message through dance movements, expressions and mime. These mask dances are colourful and vibrant performances and a visit to one of these shows will give an unforgettable experience.

To experience most of these cultural aspects of this great nation, travellers need to find their comfortable Bangkok resort within the vicinity of the city’s popular entertainment venues. Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa is popularly known as one of the finest 5 star hotels in Bangkok that is centrally located amidst many attractive shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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The Coca-Cola Easter Show – Bringing Easter to Life in Auckland

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The Coca Cola Easter show is a fun and entertaining event that takes place every year at the time of Easter. It is the largest and most awaited event in the whole of Auckland that consists of an array of fun activities which includes a circus and plenty of entertainment rides. The purpose and objective of the Easter show is to bring together both the town and the country sides of Auckland in a one big event of union that showcases the best of both worlds in the spirit of the Easter festivities.

The Coca Cola Easter show had its beginning way back in the year 1843. Its very historic nature gives it a lot of importance every year. Originally the event had a more agricultural and business oriented purpose but this changed with time and in was only in 1910 when it was first hosted as a show case in a whole new location that is now known as the ABS show grounds. Ever since then the show has been growing year after year; every year better than the year before.

This year the Coca Cola Easter show is prepping up to be bigger than ever and better than ever. A whole new set of acts and attractions are lined up with an aim of giving you the best show ever. The Hollywood horrors is the just the perfect dose of spook you will need to vitalize the spirit of Easter. This year 13 ultra spooky scenes from famous Horror movies are showcased to add a haunting thrill to the event, so you better gear those lungs for some loud and shrilling screaming! A couple of Bands are also lined up for performances and so are the Zirca Circus and the Canadian Bush Whackers show. All in all you are sure to have an amazing time this year in the Coca Cola Easter Festival.

For an experience of a spectacular Auckland city hotel, stay at the Copthorne Hotel Auckland City. This is one central Auckland hotel that is perfectly seated in the heart of the city, giving you an excellent access to all the highlights of Auckland city.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Moving to the Beat – Banlieues Bleues

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Every year in early spring, for the past 30 years Parisians have enjoyed a jazz festival that showcases all genres of the medium interpreted by artists from around the world. Known as the Banlieues Bleues, it takes place over about two weeks in multiple locations around the north eastern suburbs of Paris, Seine St Denis. The festival appears to have had a definite impact on the regeneration of the area which was a quiet residential area.

The festival brings together traditional and new styles of jazz from Afro Cuban to New Orleans to acid, blues, gypsy music and experimental jazz performed by both new and established artistes. In fact the festival is all about introducing all sorts of beats, blends and sounds and introducing new exponents of the genre who are encouraged to distribute their music at the festival. Not only is it an opportunity for festival goers to be introduced to new music and new interpretations of jazz standards, it is a platform for performers to present new compositions and for new performers to showcase their skills. Some performers in addition to displaying their musical virtuosity dress up their concerts with the use of costumes and dance. The festival noted for the high quality of its music is packed with superb musicians and provides a rare treat for jazz lovers. Jazz fans can attend individual performances of their choice or get a festival pass to see any three performances and get reduced rates for any other performance they may wish to attend. The staging of performances in multiple locations around the city allows festival goers to discover new cultural venues.

The Banlieues Bleues festival was created by a cultural association who bears the same name as the festival and received institutional and public support to make it happen. They are dedicated to the creation and dissemination of information on modern musical forms not only in regional neighbourhoods but at a national level and raising public awareness of the various types of jazz music.

Experience the quintessential Raffles service at Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris, a place which offers all modern conveniences and luxury in its selection of elegant, contemporary accommodation and facilities and amenities that make staying here a real pleasure. As one of prominent 5 Star Hotel Paris, guests enjoy an exceptional location, stylish public spaces, divine dining destinations and an amazing spa and leisure facilities that are really worth trying out. Take advantage of the offers at this luxury hotel Paris to discover a luxury hotel with a difference.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Dubai Festival City: Uncover Dubai’s Premier Retail and Recreational Space

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As a larger than life development project that encapsulates a state-of-the-art mall and recreational facilities in the heart of Dubai Creek this visionary retail and entertainment space is the envy of the world in terms of sheer size and scope.

Ideally situated on the Dubai Creek near the historic heartland of Deira lies what is now known as Dubai’s premier leisure space for the masses. Sprawled across a whopping 5.2 million square feet this monolithic edifice devoted to the country’s favourite past times of shopping, dining and entertainment is fast gaining attraction as one of its most popular tourist hubs. Appropriately dubbed the Dubai Festival City this 3km long recreational space is in fact a city within a city with breathtaking golf course, glimmering mallscape and luxurious dining options to boot. Conveniently located near the Dubai International Airport the venue is also one of the most accessible attractions in Dubai with a visionary design that looks to the future in every sense of the word.

Offering shopaholics a wide range of global brands the Dubai Festival City encompasses more than 600 stores with an impressive 25 flagship outlets of the world’s leading brands. Highlights for fashionistas include Esprit, Marks & Spencer, Nike, Adidas, Nine West, Paris Hilton and Billabong boutiques while the Mont Blanc, Diesel Accessories, Guess Accessories and Just Accessories outlets are also popular among frequent shoppers. Ladies can indulge in their footwear fetish at Chic Shoes, Nocoli and Forever 21 where the latest trends off the runways of Europe are available under one space for convenience. Home to its very own Ferrari flagship dealer the venue also houses large IKEA, Toys ‘R’ Us, Plug Ins, Ace Hardware, Paris Gallery, Magrudy’s and Samsonite showrooms as well.

Movie fanatics can catch the latest thrillers at the locale’s Grand Cinema Complex which boast 12 screens. Bowling fans can also try their hand at the sport at Bowling City while those who wish to discover the Festival City’s most scenic corners can head down to the Canal Walk where one can dine alfresco while enjoying a waterside location. The terraced pathways of the Canal are also breathtaking as the entire space also encompasses a large number of abras. The 250m long Festival Marina, the venue’s signature yachting centre is also found here in addition to a number of elegant restaurants.

Littered with almost a hundred bistros, cost cafes and plush restaurants including the country’s signature Hard Rock Cafe, Dubai Festival City is a foodie’s dream come true. Tipped to have the largest collection of waterside restaurants in all of the Middle East the locale’s true star is the Marina Restaurant Pavilion with its idyllic eateries and riviera-like placement.

Travellers in search of a Dubai airport hotel should look no further than the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. Renowned as a 5 star hotel Dubai counts among its best accommodation providers this luxurious rest offer plush living quarters for holidaymakers and those on business.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

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Thai New Year Festival- Celebrate Songkran

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Although most of the world heralds in the dawning of a New Year on the 1st of January the citizens of Thailand wait till the hot summer days of April to hark in their traditional New Year in grand fashion. Dubbed the Songkran Festival the Thai New Year is a red letter event marked across the country from the 13th to the 15th of April every year. Although the dates for the festival were declared by the yearly consultation of a solar calendar the aforementioned dates have been selected to celebrate the festival in recent times. As a national holiday most Thais head to their hometowns to hark in the New Year with loved ones as family values play a vital role in the festivities which has a deep rooted legacy in Thai culture that dates back centuries.

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The first day of the festival coincides with the Rod Nam Dum Hua custom when Thais pay tribute to their elders on National Elders Day. During the first day various cultural practices are observed such as younger members of the family pouring aromatic water on to the palms of their grandparents or elders in a ritual that displays humility while asking for the blessings of the older members of the family. The second day of the festival is known as National Family Day and is devoted to meritorious activities one performs with members of the family and close relatives. Thais flock to Buddhist temples early in the morning to offer alms to priests and bathe the Buddha statue of the temple with incensed water as well as at the Buddha image home. Meritorious activities hit an all time high during this holiday as a visit to the nine holy temples of the country is considered a must by devout Buddhists. The religious edifices in Rattanokosin such as Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Benchamabophit see an influx of visitors both local and foreign origin during Songkran.
Splashing passers- by and loved ones with water on the streets of Bangkok is another familiar Songkran ritual as the act of throwing water is believed to cleanse one of the misfortunes of the year past and hark in the New Year with a refreshing start. Today this custom has evolved in to a popular New Year activity as Thais with water guns and pales of water occupy certain areas of the city where a big splash party takes place almost simultaneously every year.

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Travellers in search of Sukhumvit serviced apartments should look no further than Citadines Sukhumvit 11Bangkok for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with the best in contemporary amenities these Bangkok serviced apartments offer luxury and comfort in the heart of the Thai capital.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
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Hong Kong Flower Show: Celebrating seasons!

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Flowers are one of nature’s prettiest creations. What is astonishing about them is that each one is so unique in its appearance, shade and scent. From subtle colour differences to minute details that make them exquisitely beautiful, each flower seems a miracle. Celebrating this annually is the Hong Kong Flower Show.

Held every year in March it is organized by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of Hong Kong. Looked forward to by both local and foreign citizens, it is the most important event in the horticulture enthusiast’s calendar. While participants are primarily those who have some knowledge or have a keen interest in horticulture, the event is not just restricted to them. In fact most visitors are just people who appreciate beauty.

This year’s flower show is scheduled to take place between the 15 to 24 March from 9am to 9pm at the Victoria Park located in Causeway Bay. With Dendrobium being the theme flower and ‘kaleidoscope of spring’ being the theme, one can expect unbelievable displays of not only potted plants but also floral arrangements and landscapes. Commercial stalls located at the exhibition will provide a one stop place for all your horticulture needs. Admission fee is $14 with a special $7 admission for children, students and senior citizens. For groups over 30 the admission has been reduced to half the normal rate so as to encourage large number of visitors.

The event also brings in international organizations, thereby giving visitor’s an opportunity to witness flower spectacles from the world over. It also provides a platform for exchange of knowledge on horticulture. Apart from the exhibition itself other activities like photo and drawing competitions, informative seminars, workshops on floral art and plant maintenance as well as musical and cultural performances will also be held, making this an event anybody and everybody can enjoy.

If you are looking for accommodation in the vicinity then Cosmo hotel is a smart choice. This 4 star hotel Hong Kong provides free shuttle service to Causeway Bay, Convention Centre, Quarry Bay and other places, providing you with an easy and convenient means of transport. Being a popular Hong Kong boutique hotel, it is reasonably priced for the high standards of service offered.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
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Honouring the Sea God – Hung Shing Festival

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The Hung Shing festival held on the 13th day of the second lunar month is held in honour of the historical figure Hung Hei who once upon a time had been a respected astronomer and geographer who worked as the governor of Panyu in Guangdong province during the Tang dynasty. He was later on deified for the service rendered by him towards the merchants’ and fishermen of the province by making use of his extraordinary ability of predicting the weather. It is believed that even after his death, Hung Hei has continued to protect and guard the people of the province against natural disasters just as he had during the time that he was alive.

The festival celebrates the birthday of Hung Shing Tai Wong, the God of the Southern sea. Temples have been built along the South China coast by fishermen in order to venerate this saviour deity and to worship him. The celebrations are of an extremely festive nature as this is a festival that is full of song and dance. Dragon and lion dance performances parade the streets while various games and competitions too are organized along the way.

One unique competition held during the festival season is the Fa Pau competition. A firecracker is shot into the air and the villagers and the participants of the festivities are supposed to catch the firecracker while it’s falling. The person who succeeds in doing so gets to keep a floral wreath known as the Fa Pau. This person is believed to be blessed by Hung Shing and is therefore believed to have good luck and protection from Hung Shing all year round.

Festivities are particularly lively in the Ho Sheung Heung, a village that is believed to be more than 800 years old. The Hau Ku Shek Ancestral Hall is also a must-visit place in the village where the Hung Shing Temple and other ancient remains of this ancient location can be found.

While exploring this vibrant festival, it is advisable to seek out a good Hotel in Jordan Hong Kong to wind down during the stay. One of the Hong Kong Kowloon Hotel, The Langham Palace Mongkok Hong Kong offers luxurious suites to cater to the needs of even the most particular of all travellers. Explore and discover this wondrous festival in comfort.