The vibrant Deepavali Festival is an important event for Hindus around the world. Just as in Hindu communities the world over, the Hindus of Malaysia celebrate this occasion with great joy and festivity. Deepavali is the Festival of Light, a celebration of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Accordingly at this joyous occasion a multitude of oil lamps are lit to dispel evil and darkness. The event falls on the final day of the final month of the traditional lunar based calendar. The origins of the festival are steeped in myth and legend and several explanations are given for the event. In Malaysia most Hindus consider the festival to commemorate the slaying of the demon Narakasura by the might of Lord …

The vibrant little nation of Bhutan boasts an intriguing culture punctuated by Buddhist spirituality that lends it a charm all its own. Of particular note is the annual “Tschechu”, which is a religious festival that translates to “tenth day”, and is hosted by the various religious institutions of the country. The best way to experience the excitement of a tshechu is from a Bhutan hotel such as the splendid Uma Bhutan. Tschechus are celebrated in a variety of ways that differ from city to city, and an ideal way to experience all of it is via a series of Bhutan tour packages that the hotel can easily help organize for you. Held to celebrate the birthday of the renowned Guru Padmasambhava, tshechus occur on the …

The vegetarian festival in Thailand held in the month of October is an event of spirituality together with astounding religious acts that are carried out as devotions to the gods for obtaining blessings. The festival which has its origin from the Chinese immigrants who visited Thailand some time back, has today developed into a fully fledged ceremony with street shows of people in trances as well as religious rituals performed in the temples, in exclusive culinary preparations and people observing certain precepts in view of the event. Spanning over a nine day period in the ninth month of the Chinese calendar, the festival is the result of the belief that the Chinese immigrants who fell ill with Malaria, recovered due to a religious ritual they …

Part of what makes Bangkok such a fascinating city is the fact that you can find sprawling modern development side by side with cultural attractions steeped in religious traditions. The Erawan Shrine in Bangkok is one such example and is definitely worth seeing when in the Thai capital. If you are looking for a unique way to see the sights of the city then Bangkok cruises such as those offered by Anantara Cruises Thailand are just what you are looking for. This Bangkok cruise tour takes you along the Chao Phraya River and past some of the most famous landmarks of the capital. Make sure to also plan a visit to the Erawan Shrine which can be found in the Pathum Wan district and which features a statute of …

While the 31st December, the eve of the New Year is a special one for almost everybody all over the world, it is even special for Singaporeans. The Singapore New Year countdown is indeed everybody looks forward to. Celebrate this event at one of the most comfortable luxury hotels Singapore has on offer and a recommended choice would be The St. Regis Singapore which offers Singapore luxury suites fulfilling every possible need of its visitors. New Year is an important event for all since it signifies the ending of a year and the beginning of a new one, thereby signifying new beginnings. It is a symbol of hope which is why the dawning of the New Year is celebrated in a large bout of fanfare …

One of the best ways to soak up local culture is to experience cultural festivals in a country. Thus when heading to Thailand try plan your trip to coincide with the celebration of Loi Krathong, a charming festival that takes place throughout the country. Those heading to Hua Hin during the festival and looking for Hua Hin hotels by the sea can consider Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort. This luxurious hotel Hua Hin has to offer also features the very best in contemporary comforts, making your stay all the more memorable. Also known as the ‘Festival of Light’, Loi Krathong takes place on the twelfth lunar month when the moon is at its fullest. This generally falls in November and on this particular day one can see throngs of …

It was on the 11th November 1968 that Maldives became a republic after being a monarchy for a considerable time. And this day is celebrated all over Maldives on the 11th November each year, when much rejoicing and commemorations can be witness in all parts of the archipelago. If one wishes to participate in the Republic Day activities and capture the spirit of the celebrations, look for Maldives accommodation in a reliable Maldives hotel such as the Adaaran Club Rannalhi of which the reputation as a desirable abode for holidays precedes it. Many events and parades of different nature take place on the streets on this day as part of the celebrations but the most highlighted are the delightful parades of the National Security Services and the National Cadet …

The Loi Krathong Festival is one of the most anticipated celebrations on Thailand’s event packed calendar. The event is celebrated throughout the country and the festivities even spreads to parts of Myanmar and Laos. It is an interesting and somewhat unique festival. There are many places in Thailand where one can take part in the Loi Krathong Festival, although Bangkok, the Thai capital, is one of the best. The festival’s name literally means ‘Floating Decoration’ or ‘Floating Crown’, and refers to the practice of releasing miniature floats on the river. The festival, which typically takes place between the eleventh and twelfth month of the lunar calendar, was originally dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, the three main Hindu deities. However, after becoming a Buddhist nation, …

A country full of vibrancy, constant movement and development – Vietnam is guaranteed to be a unique cultural experience like no other. With streets full of motorbikes transporting huge televisions and refrigerators wrapped onto them with string, there is always something unusual to witness in this fascinating Southeast Asian city. One event in particular that will fascinate and thoroughly entertain all visitors is the Vietnamese Kiep Bac Festival. This festival is essentially a pilgrimage to the Kiep Bac Temple, which honours the saint Tran Hung Dao and has been carried out for centuries. An old Vietnamese custom, this festival occurs on the 20th day of the 8th lunar month and interestingly displays a revival of a famed battle on Luc Dau River consisting of a …

Eastern Asia is one part of the world etched with rich culture and tradition. From festivities to rituals to food, each occasion, activity and cuisine is both colorful, interesting and has a symbolic history behind. Visitors to countries like Thailand never fail to be awed by the meticulous detail and fascinating stories that govern each event in the country. It is no different for the famous Hungry Ghost Festival whose name in itself is quite the crowd puller. The ‘Hungry Ghost’ festival is one interesting event that makes its way into the calendars of the Thai’s Singaporeans and the Chinese. The Chinese pay great importance to the satisfaction of their dead ancestors. They believe that their good fortune in this life rests on this deed. …