The Indonesian festival of Nyepi or traditional New Year is celebrated primarily in the exotic island of Bali. It is primarily a Hindu festivity but non-Hindus conform to the traditional customs as a show of respect for their fellow residents. Festive customs commence two days before the advent of the new year. On this date many hundreds of persons from each of the villages transport artefacts from temples to the beaches so that they can be ritually purified. People attire themselves in vibrantly coloured clothes and make their way to cheerful processions beginning from the early hours of the morning. Women will carry heaped offerings of prepared rice, fruits and other food on their heads whilst men carry a lengthy sheet of white and yellow …

Each year on the 13th of March elephants in Thailand have a special day all to themselves. On this day they do not have to toil for their keep. Elephant day was first mooted in 1998 and is now firmly established as an important national event. Celebrations start a week ahead mainly to draw attention to efforts for elephant conservation and to protect their disappearing habitat. Each region, resort, elephant camp and conservation centre has their own programmes for commemorating Elephant Day. One of the best outcomes of the day is seeing a large number of elephants in one place looking as if they enjoy the attention. On this special day many events are organized to honour and express appreciation for the animal that has …

Chinese New Year is a widely celebrated festival – celebrated either in the month of January or February, depending on the lunar calendar. All around the world, hundreds of communities celebrate this time by lighting beautiful lanterns, conducting parades and spending time as a community or family. The streets are lit up in beautiful lanterns, decorated with Chinese calligraphy. People adorn themselves with new clothes and give gifts to children. Shops offer special deals on all items. For nights on end, long dancing dragons fill the street in the traditional dragon parades, which also feature acrobats and dancers. Fireworks light up the night sky and the streets are filled with the colour red, which is said to be able to ward off beasts. The Chinese …

Indonesia is undoubtedly a top-notch destination in terms of culture, outdoor activities and holiday retreats that one would always want to be a part of. The festivals and events play a major role in showcasing the country’s rich cultural influences of which some go back in time. If one is searching for luxury hotels, Indonesia affords plenty of opportunities to select one that will suit your budget. Starwood Indonesia which features amongst Indonesia 5 star hotels will entice you with a truly memorable experience that will give you the time and space to discover a host of all the upcoming festivals in the country. October sees the ever popular and engaging Kuta Karnival Bali Food Festival which sees foodies the world over commune in Bali for a true taste …

Kerala in India is a destination with a distinctive culture. A 3 Star hotel in Kerala such as Poovar Island Resort presents an ideal option for those in search of a Kerala resort at which to hold their wedding reception. Traditional weddings in Kerala incorporate some unique rituals to mark the unity of two people. Customarily, the bride pays a visit to a temple along with her close relatives on the very morning of her wedding day. Here she prays for a happy wedded life. Usually marriage ceremonies in Kerala are held at large halls which have the capacity for a large amount of guests, among which there are friends and relatives of both the bridegroom and bride. The responsibility of arranging this ceremony belongs …

If you are looking for a unique way to ring in the New Year, then consider heading to the Maldives where you can combine a fun holiday in the tropics with much celebration and festivities. An ideal option would be to stay at a Maldives island resort such as Kuramathi Island where you can herald in the New Year in an intimate getaway by the sea. This luxurious resort features charming Maldives villas that provide an ideal home away from home in this tropical paradise. Those wanting to witness the pomp and pageantry of locals during New Year can head to such destinations as the capital Male, where one can witness a variety of festivities. December 31st see the city streets come alive at night with dancers, drummers and …