Rich in history, Bali has a rich cultural and religious heritage that can be experienced through such events as the Odalan Festival. An ideal base from which to explore the island and observe its many rituals would be Regent Bali, which is amongst the leading luxury resorts in Bali. Situated in the Sanur District, this Bali luxury resort enjoys its own private beach and tropical gardens in which to unwind in. A ceremony that marks a temple’s anniversary, the Odalan Festival pays respect to Hindu deities. Those visiting during the event can look forward to seeing such features as a form of contemplative prayer known as “muspa”. Various traditional performances such as barong dance and shadow puppetry can also be sometimes witnessed at such events. Google+

Nouvel An Chinois or the Chinese New Year is celebrated across the world including in the capital of France, Paris. An ideal way to soak up the atmosphere of this festival and the city’s many attractions is by staying at a luxury hotel Paris such as Le Royal Monceau Paris. Located near the iconic Champs-Elysées, this 5 star hotel Paris lets you enjoy the very best the city has to offer, from luxury accommodation to fine dining. Those visiting during the time of the annual Chinese New Year should make their way to the Chinatown area which can be found in the 13th arrondissement. During the festival period you will find the shops, restaurants and houses in the area adorned in a variety of decorations including red lanterns and …

Celebrated around the world on January 1st, New Year’s Day is an event that attracts much revelry and partying the world over. It is a time of year when people band together regardless of country, class or creed and join hands to face the new dawn and the endless possibilities it will bring. The event is generally marked by lighting fireworks at the magical stroke of midnight as the night sky is lit up with a dazzling array of lights. Each country however, has special ways to celebrate this occasion. In America, one of the most popular places for festivities is Times Square in New York City where you can countdown the famous ball drop. In China such major cities as Beijing and Shanghai give …

Renowned as one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India, Pondicherry has a great historical background as a French colony. Pondicherry is one of the francophone locations in the world and you can still witness the colonial past etched into the great city and lives of the locals. This coastal town in South India still has remnants of colonial statues, churches and buildings. This popular tourist destination in India boasts of several architecturally significant churches influenced by the unique fusion of cultural heritage. The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine are some of the significant churches you can visit during …

Separated by a strip of peninsular, Had Rin Nok and Had Rin Nai are two entirely different beaches on two sides of the island peninsular of Ko PhaNgan in South Thailand. Had Rin Nai also known as Sunset Beach is the quieter and peaceful of the two, boasting of resorts and more family friendly accommodation options. This stretch of coast is considerably narrower than its twin and the sand slightly rough to the touch, while the sea is considerably shallower during the off season time. In contrast, Had Rin Nok, known as Sunrise Beach, is a thriving, bustle of activity, home to the famous Full Moon Party that is held every month around the time of the full moon. Clubs and backpacker accommodation line the …

The popular Chingay Parade is one of the most popular events that are held on the day of the customary Chinese New Year. At present it has developed into a major street event which boasts the presence of the procession of myriad colors. The origin of this parade comes from China even though it is an annual street pageant that is taken place in both Singapore and Malaysia to commemorate the date of birth of the Chinese gods. The term Chingay was created by the Chinese people living in South East Asia. Chingay means True Art according to Penang, and a mini adorned stage according to Singaporeans. You will witness a glamorous show off jugglers, dragon dancers, clowns, lion dancers, acrobats and percussionists bringing to …

Boasting a rich history, Malaysia offers a truly unforgettable holiday adventure and those wanting to experience the country’s rich heritage should definitely visit during the annual Kuala Lumpur Festival. The best way to experience the very best of what the country has to offer is by choosing from tour packages to Malaysia offered by such reputed travel specialists as Paradise Vacations. Their special holiday packages cater to your specific needs and budgets. Featuring traditional and international cultural performances in the capital, the Kuala Lumpur Festival takes place in numerous venues across the city. Be it traditional songs, classical music concerts, plays or even exotic local cuisine, you can enjoy them all at this festival. From Chinese Opera to traditional dance and shadow puppetry to dancing contests, the Kuala Lumpur …

It is that time of the year again. Resolutions, new ones and old keep you busy, getting ready for the dawn of a new year. It is that time of the year to take a good look at all that surrounds you. Count your blessings and appreciate family. The real reason behind celebrating New Year’s Eve is a mix of all these aspects. The festivities and glamour are all directed towards the appreciation and celebration of life. But this day means much more than celebrations to most. It is a valuable time to rethink the months gone by, and take the good memories as you step on into the future. It is also a time for letting go of bad memories to make way for …

Dubai is a vibrant city having rapidly developed to become a leading tourist destination. For travellers including those who are staying at luxury hotels and resorts, preferably of a luxury hotel group such as Raffles, there is plenty to see and do in the region. Festivals held in the city bring about a spirit of harmony and excitement. With a culture rooted in Islamic traditions, Dubai mainly celebrates religious festivals such as Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. However the world famous, Dubai Shopping Festival has achieved continued success over the years attracting visitors from all corners of the world. Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring …

A laidback, sleepy, sheep-farming valley turns into a passionate wine making arena during the annual Gibbston Harvest Festival in Queenstown, New Zealand held in March on the third Saturday of the month. It does not fail to attract everyone from professional connoisseurs to simple wine appreciating enthusiasts to indulge a taste of the exquisite produce made by small boutique wineries, local vineyards and many a fine food establishment that are spread about the area. The festival is celebrated to mark the harvest of wine from Gibbston and to salute and toast the spirit of the community that has turned itself into a high profile winemaking body! This festival not only celebrates the Central Otago wines and the grape harvest produced by vineyards and wineries in …