Religious festivals play a major role in the culture of the Maldives and since it is a fully Muslim nation, these events are not surprisingly, linked to Islam. From vibrant celebrations to reflective observances here are some of the main festivals held annually. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday In commemoration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, the Maldives joins the Islamic world in celebrating Mawlid un-Nabi on the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi al-Awwal). Mosques resounding with prayers, street processions, recitation of Sufi poems and communities coming together in harmonious festivities create an atmosphere of unity and reverence. Ramadan Experience the serene aura that blankets the Maldives during the holy month of Ramadan. A key aspect of this period is …

Thailand, a land of rich traditions and vibrant culture, hosts a plethora of festivals throughout the year, each offering a unique blend of spirituality, colour, and joy. Dive into the heart of Thai celebrations with these unmissable festivals that showcase the country’s cultural diversity: Loy Krathong | img via flickr 1. Songkran: Thai New Year Water Festival When: April 13-15 Where: Nationwide Highlights: Experience the world’s largest water fight as Thais and visitors alike come together to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year. Water splashing symbolizes purification and cleansing for the year ahead. You can witness this from anywhere including serviced apartments Bangkok such as Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok. 2. Loy Krathong: Festival of Lights When: November (date varies) Where: Nationwide, with grand celebrations in Chiang Mai …

One of the most magnificent events in the Sri Lankan Buddhist culture is the Esala Perahera held in the scenic hill country. Commencing in August from the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, this graceful parade circles around the city with several squads of dancers and performers. Here are some things you should know before you plan to witness this event. Where and When? You will have to travel to Kandy and find accommodation first, as this event takes place at night. Esala Perahera this year will take place from 14th to 24th August for a duration of 10 days. The parade will march through most streets close to the temple and will last for a few hours. It’s best to find accommodation in the heart …

China has a rich heritage with captivating cultural traditions that are linked with festivals throughout the year. Here are such events that are well worth witnessing on your holidays. Chinese New Year Festival The Chinese New Year Festival is the nation’s most important festival and goes back over 4,000 years. Be it in Beijing, Shanghai or Xi An, China hotels provide guests with an ideal chance to enjoy the festivities. These usually include red lantern decorations, food-filled gatherings, lion and dragon dances and fireworks. Chinese Lantern Festival The Chinese Lantern Festival or Yuan Xiao Festival is held on the 15th day following the Chinese New Year. All manner of lanterns are on display, some set afloat on waterways and others released in the air. The Xian City …

The Dubai Expo 2021 will be a celebration of human advancements and how they have helped reshape the face of the earth. It was supposed to be held in 2020 but was postponed due to the coronavirus. The World’s Greatest Show Thanks to the subject material and the grand way that Dubai is known to celebrate conventions, the Dubai Expo is often dubbed the World’s Greatest Show. Celebrating Human Brilliance and Achievements Many luxury hotels in Dubai will fill up come October as dignitaries from all over the world will flock to the metropolis to celebrate human brilliance and achievements. Lots of innovations will see the light of day at the Expo. Dubai at the Forefront As always, Dubai will be at the forefront of all …

Poson Full Moon Poya Day celebrates the arrival of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. It is a day that is celebrated with light and colour and neighbourly harmony, a very special occasion second only to the Vesak Festival for Buddhists ihttps://www.flickr.com/photos/lakpura/15369289710n Sri Lanka.   Observing Poson with the locals There are many sites of significance to Buddhists all over Sri Lanka, each more wonderous and full of stories as the next. If you stay in the Fortress Resort and Spa, you will only be less than half an hour away from the Japan Peace Pagoda which is a Buddhist temple with breath-taking ocean views. Peace Pagoda The Japanese Peace Pagoda, Unawatuna is one of the eighty as of the year 2000, peace pagodas built under the guidance …