Author Archives: Sumaira Narayan

Christmas in Singapore – A Magical Way to Experience the Season

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Whoever says that Christmas isn’t complete without the steady fall of snow and the cold temperatures clearly has never experienced the magic of the breath-taking Christmas celebrations in Singapore. Although the weather is warm and tropical during the months of December, in Singapore the magic of the season greets you wherever you may visit in Singapore. Full of things to do and places to see, Christmas in Singapore is a truly magical and marvellous time of year.

Singapore is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year, but during the month of December, the festivities and Christmas spirit make it truly spectacular. To see streets beautifully lit up in dancing and twinkling fairy lights, the best place to visit is Orchard Road. This road is mainly known for its amazing shopping destinations, but during the festive season, the streets are filled with exquisite lights and colours. While on Orchard Street, you can also do plenty of Christmas shopping, as the shops there are filled with plenty of things that would make ideal gifts for all your love ones.

Shopping and bustling about the busy streets of Singapore can work up quite an appetite, and the best place to satisfy this hunger with some exquisite cuisine are the all-you-can-eat buffets offered at many of the hotels in Singapore. The buffets will satisfy any craving you may have, whether you want gourmet treats or a homely Christmas dinner.

If you want to add a more traditional and simple feel to your Christmas in Singapore, be sure to visit some of the beautiful churches in the city, where you can truly feel and appreciate the Christmas spirit. The windows of the St Andrews Cathedral, situated close to Orchard Road, are adorned with breathtaking stained glass, and are a sight not to be missed.

Christmas in Singapore is a magical time, where the spirit of the season can truly be felt. This makes Singapore a very popular holiday destination during the month of December, with hundreds of sights to see and activities for all your loved ones. Choosing the right 5 star hotel in Singapore plays a huge part in making your Christmas in the city that much more special. One hotel that is guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit is the Sheraton Towers Singapore. With its beautiful rooms and exotic spa, this luxury hotel in Singapore will make your tropical Christmas extra fun.

Langkawi Harvest Festival – an exciting celebration

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The island of Langkawi is fast gaining popularity as a charming tourist destination, and its quaint offering of local festivals and traditions is an excellent way to mingle with the locals and learn more about Malaysia’s customs and society. When you’re in Langkawi, check into a luxury Langkawi beach resort that will enable full enjoyment of this unique location. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa is one of the finest options for a 5 star hotel in Langkawi with its gracious accommodation and friendly hospitality. When you’re here, make the most o f the local culture by participating in the various events happening throughout the year, especially during the month of December. The Langkawi Harvest Festival is one such even, where you can take part in a fun variety of traditional games that are associated with the harvest season of the rice paddy cultivated in the area. You’ll be given a front row seat to witness how the rice is harvested and celebrate with the local farmers at the abundance of the crop produced.  The Langkawi Craft Festival is another intriguing event at Kedah’s Craft Complex that celebrates the local talent of craftmakers across the island. You’ll be able to purchase some neat items that make great gifts, or try your hand at some of the local crafts such as batik painting.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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New Year’s Eve in Dubai – Party like it’s 2013!

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One of the world’s most foremost tourist destinations, Dubai is surpassing London, New York, and Paris for New Year revelers looking for a fantastic show to kick off a brand new year in 2014. Be smart and book accommodation in Dubai as early as possible, as hotels fill up fast. Consider The Palm as a possible option of a luxury Palm Jumeirah Hotel to host your new year’s shenanigans. On New Year’s Eve, ensure you head over to downtown Dubai, home of the world’s tallest building in the form of the Burj Khalifa, which unleashes a spectacular visual feast that rivals some of the best western NYE shows. To secure a prime viewing spot, make sure you use public transport and be downtown by 8pm at the latest, as that’s when the crowds get thicker, amped and ready to party into the wee hours of the New Year after ringing it in in style. The entire season is a feast for the senses no matter where one is, as Dubai’s reputation for wanting to best all the rest results in vibrant hotel galas (again, book early!), exciting night club parties, and last but not least, the city’s spectacular skyline, which is set ablaze with a mesmerizing fireworks display with the resplendent Burj Khalifa tower as its focal point, bathed in rings of multi-coloured fire as its fireworks display. The New Year celebrations always feature star-studded events, in some prestigious locales as the QE2, docked at the Port Rashid in Bur Dubai, Visa Lounge within the Festival City area, and the Burj Khalifa itself, featuring the 2ndworld’s largest observation deck. So with many, many glittering events to choose from, ring in 2014 in style and flash in Dubai and experience a NYE party of a lifetime.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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The Dubai Pre-owned Boat Show 2013 – a prestigious maritime launch

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Offering a day of excitement for the entire family is the Dubai Pre-owned Boat Show 2013, which will take place at the Dubai Creek Marina, from the 21st to the 23rd of November. Make this exciting aquatic event part of your stay at a luxury Dubai airport hotel such as the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. With elegant interiors and attentive service, it is an ideal 5 star hotel Dubai has to offer its international travellers. The Dubai Pre-owned boat show is an excellent networking event for prospective buyers and sellers of a wide selection of boats. Guests are able to peruse everything from jet skis to yachts. Based on the success of the event in previous years, more than 7,000 participants are expected this year, with more than 80 boats being listed for sale at this prestigious event.

Participants will get the chance to peruse over 25 retail offerings encompassing fishing and boating suppliers, insurers and financers who will handle the details of major transactions, as well as leisure providers and media publications spotlighting the event. Families are guaranteed a fun time, and can relax amidst the musical stylings of a live band and DJ, attempt to tempt lady luck in some exciting raffles, and more. A kids’ corner will ensure that the little ones are well taken care of, while the adults talk money and boats, before sailing away into the Arabian Gulf on a fine vessel that will spirit you away on a whirlwind adventure!

2013 Abu Dhabi Art – creativity celebrated

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Showcasing local creativity and giving it the international exposure and regional appreciation it deserves is the prestigious Abu Dhabi Art Fair 2013. Make this event part of your cultural “to do” list when you make your stay at one of the quality Abu Dhabi hotels in the region such as the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi as its central location affords easy access to the art fair, making it an ideal Abu Dhabi city hotel to host your cultural excursions in the city. Venture down to the Saadiyat cultural district during 20-23 November and be treated to the creative offerings of the emirate, showcased in splendour at the 2013 Abu Dhabi Art Fair. You’ll be treated to a stunning array of ingenious art installations as well an impressive host of large-scale sculptures. Look forward to a brand new section featured this year, entitled “Artists Waves”, which places at its locus the creative offerings of Abu Dhabi artists in the form of a curated exhibition. There will also be a fascinating line-up of various talks and panels by professionals in the field that are designed to give you a theoretical insight into these intriguing pieces. Witness some of the finest works featured in renowned art galleries, and special children’s arts tours are designed to foster artistic appreciation early on.

Kuwait International Arabic Books Exhibition – a unique literary event

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If you’re visiting Kuwait during the month of November, make sure you check out the Kuwait International Arabic Books Exhibition, which runs from the 21st to the 30th of November, 2013 at Mishref. If you’re looking for accommodation close by, an array of fine Kuwait hotels await your pleasure. Consider the Al-Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort, which is an ideal Kuwait resort to host your stay, as it boasts five-star hospitality and a charming ambiance that makes it the perfect home away from home.  The Kuwait International Arabic Books Exhibition affords an ideal opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the world of the Arabian literary market. It attracts authors and publishers from across the region looking to make a splash with the next big name on the market. Professionally speaking, it is a fantastic networking opportunity if you’ve ever thought about producing a book for the Arabian market. For book lovers, there will be author signings of a variety of tomes spanning different genres, and book fans will get the opportunity to converse one-on-one with their favourite literary artists. You’ll also get to learn more about the latest goings-on in the field, meet up-and-coming authors and celebrate established names. So head on down to the Kuwait International Fairs Ground during the last week in November for a truly unique literary event.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore 2013 – an exciting way to see the city

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Singapore is one of the most beautiful cities in the world; the streets are lined with hundreds of interesting sites and breathtaking architecture. Anyone travelling in this modern city is bound to see some unforgettably beautiful things. But for anyone looking to take in this city in a more interesting way, rather than a taxi, train or a bus, should definitely consider participating in the annual Standard Chartered Marathon, Singapore, held on the first Sunday of December.

Taking part in this internationally known marathon guarantees a more interesting view of this beautiful city, as the route passes through some spectacular sites. Although the 2013 race route is yet to be announced, the 2012 race was very successful, and this year’s race organizers are striving to live up to the previous year’s very high standards. Some of the sites you are guaranteed to pass include Sentosa, Esplanade or the beautiful Orchard Road.

The Standard Chartered Marathon has several categories, an event for every member of your family. The events include the Full Marathon, the 42km Ekiden; a relay for teams of six members, the Half Marathon, 10km Run; which also includes the wheelchair race, and the 750m Kids Dash. This marathon is guaranteed to be a fun-filled day that will make your trip to Singapore much more memorable. For those needing more incentive to run in this exciting event, cash prizes of up to 50,000$ are offered to the winners, as well as cash prizes for competitors who get placed 10th and below.

Registrations for the Standard Chartered Marathon close on the 30th of September, 2013. If you are looking for an interesting way to tour the streets of Singapore, make sure to get your entries in as soon as possible. Another way to get involved is by volunteering to help with this fun-filled event, assisting the people who make this event run smoothly and maximizing the fun.

After an exhausting but fun-filled day at the marathon, relax and unwind at a quality 5 star hotel in Singapore that affords access to many of city’s world-class entertainment and dining venues. Consider the Sheraton Towers Singapore as one possible option, as its spacious rooms, luxurious spa and swimming pool and exquisite dining makes it an ideal luxury hotel in Singapore to host your stay.

 

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+

Sunlight Rock Xiamen – Where Dragons And Tigers Team Up

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China is a country that has many myths and legends that have shaped its history and some of them still remain true till the present day. There are a number of tourist hot spots, which have a rich legend that is closely linked to its existence. What is known as Sunlight Rock, found in the Xiamen area in China is one such place.

According to Chinese mythology, Sunlight rock is the place where dragons and tigers teamed up to protect the entrance to the famous Xiamen Harbour. Hence the premises are also known as the Dragon Rock and also Camel Rock.

It is almost 93 meters high and is a major tourist attraction, all complete with cable cars and a number of other tourist attractions in and around the region.

There are a vast number of calligraphic inscriptions that have been found from this place, suggesting the historical importance of this attraction. According to one of the more than eighty inscriptions that are found here, it is said that once in the 17th century there was a flower garden as well as a bamboo garden located at the foot of the rock. What is interesting is that proving that almost true, archaeologists have unearthed some findings from the Ming Era from this setting. One of the most well known inscriptions found in this place is the “Heroic spirit of the south Fujian sea”.

It is believed that the oldest of the inscriptions found here has been written as far as four hundred years ago and some of them can still be read and understood. This is indeed a wonderful spot to go to understand and come closer to history and heritage of China as well as have a great break exploring the rocks and taking in the breath taking scenery.

There are a number of Greater China Hotels, from which this attraction can be reached. For holiday planner looking for hotels in China can choose Millennium & Copthorne Hotels China, which provide unmatched luxury and a great holiday atmosphere. Whether one is traveling alone, with family or with friends, its guests are sure to have a memorable time.

2013 Coutts Polo at the Palace – In good company always

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Polo was always known as the sport of kings ever since it was introduced to the world through the courts of the Mogul emperors of India. Coutts Polo at the Palace, which is an annual two-day sports spectacular, and it is one of the gulf region’s most prestigious events, as well as a fashionable occasion. It attracts high fliers who are keen on and associated with the sport, in addition to skilled equestrians, haute monde fashionistas, and local and international socialites.

Ever since it debuted in 2009, Coutts Polo at the Palace takes place every November in the gardens of the Emirates Palace (a sumptuous hotel), Abu Dhabi. The Coutts team from the host city, the Maserati Team from Milan, the Faberge Team from London, and Team Buenos Aires compete for the prestigious Coutts Polo Cup during two days of intense competition on one of the most spectacular and best purpose-built polo fields in the world. In order to ensure an exciting sporting event, the game here is played according to a different set of rules geared to keep the players moving, the audience entertained, and to keep them coming to the event.

The game played on the grounds of the Palace has been made simpler to appeal to a wider audience as well as to make it fast-paced and unforgettable. It starts with the exciting Palace Dash, where the opposing sides try to get at the ball in a mad dash across the field, setting the pace for the rest of the game. A smaller field than those used for regular games, it allows the audience to be closer to the action and three players per side instead of the usual four force it to be a more action-filled game needing skill, speed, and innovative tactics. This new way of playing an ancient game has not only heightened its interest but also proved that it can be played successfully in the centre of busy cities.

The off-field activities are as exciting as those on the field. Shaded lavish lounge-like areas provide refreshments and relaxing spaces in VIP tents limited to 250 people and five private chalets serving only up to 50 people. The emphasis is on exclusivity, with only a thousand spectators admitted per game and tickets are in high demand for the 2013 November event.

With fourteen hotels spread out across the region, the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East offer a range of clients the comfort and security of efficiently run hotels in some of the best locations within key cities. These elegant Middle East hotels offer well appointed contemporary accommodation, services and facilities that suit the lifestyles of modern corporate and leisure travelers. Take advantage of great offers at these five star UAE hotels to have extraordinary holiday experiences.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.

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Deepavali in Pondicherry – the festival of lights comes alive in Pondi

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The charming French-Indo town of Pondicherry comes alive each year during the festive season of Deepavali, the “Festival of Lights” that celebrates the Mother Goddess in Hindu mythology. Soak in the excitement and colour of the city when you check into Pondicherry accommodation that is centrally located, such as the stylish Hotel Atithi that presents all visitors with an elegant Pondicherry hotel from which to commence exploration of this iconic Indian city. Deepawali, or Diwali, especially, is a time of great celebration and joy, with the festivities starting a week before the actual Diwali, and goes on for a week after. All ages are decked out in their Sunday best of ornate silks and scintillating jewellery. It is a public holiday in the country, with schools and business closed for several days during the Diwali week, so visitors are cautioned to get any supplies not already available at your hotel. Families will come together in droves during this time of celebration and merriment, as they light fireworks, buy new clothes in commemoration of a new chapter of life, and purchase and exchange sweet meats and savoury dishes with family and friends. The streets and store fronts are bedecked in vibrant lights and myriad decorations to convey the sheer joy of this important religious festival in the Hindu calendar.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.

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