Known as the “west’s most western town” the city of Scottsdale is located towards the east of Maricopa County in the state of Arizona. Regarded by the New York Times to be the desert version of Miami’s South Beach, Scottsdale has a thriving nightlife with trendy bars and restaurants. Over the years it has successfully moulded itself into an upscale retreat for both local and international tourists hosting a vast array of trendy boutique stores and the latest abodes anywhere in the USA. The city’s relatively small population size ensures that the metropolis is kept exclusive without the hustle and bustle of larger cities such as Los Angeles and New York. Originally the home of the Pima Indians, the first European settlers to the area …

Numerous attractions and sites are found in Koh Samui. Located southwards of Lamai Town is the Wat Khunaram which houses the mummified body of the town’s most famous priest, Leung Pordaeng. According to history, Leung Pordaeng renounced all worldly possessions with the aim of following Buddha’s teachings. Before his death which he himself predicted, the Samuian initiated those around him to prepare for his death by building a casket. Despite his death having occurred more than 20 years ago, to-date this body remains on display showing little sign of deterioration. Many Samuians revere this sacred preservation of Leung Pordaeng’s body as nothing short of a miracle. Proving the teachings of Buddhist doctrines where attainment of supreme nirvana can be achieved through leading an exemplary life …

A fact that sometimes gets lost between the allure of the beach and the call of the blue ocean, is that Maldives is a country that bears a rich heritage and has many strong traditions. Their culture shows the influence of neighbouring countries like India, Sri Lanka and even Arab and East African countries, but the end result is undeniably, uniquely Maldives. When visiting this delightful country, the name of which has come to be synonymous with the word ‘paradise’, it is a must to remember to soak up a little of its culture. It is definitely something that would enrich your trip. Bodu Beru is the most popular style of music and dance in Maldives. Almost every inhabited island has a dedicated Bodu Beru …