In hushed reverence and quiet veneration, the birth, enlightenment and the death of the Buddha is celebrated by Buddhists scattered the world over on the day of Vesak, the day marked as the most important on the Buddhist calendar. Bathed in the charm of this day, devotees find serenity sublime in the beautiful and symbolic celebrations and rituals that are faithfully followed on the day. In Singapore, where Theravada and Mahayana Buddhists together abide, the rituals followed slightly vary, while the common chord of peace and good deeds as well as repentance bind the hearts and minds of those who celebrate in strong and significant unison. The day of Vesak is celebrated on the 15th day of the 4th month of the Chinese Lunar Calendar …

Starting out in the Mickey Mouse Club as a child and moving onto the hit 90’s boy band N’Sync and thereafter releasing hit singles, Justin Timberlake has managed to rocket to fame in a short period of time for his music and lately for his acting career as well. 2013 saw the 33 year old singer/actor dominate the global charts with his bestselling album 20/20 experience and 20/20 experience 2 of 2. The du Arena at Yas Island Abu Dhabi will feature Timberlake bringing this thrilling album as part of his World Tour to an eagerly awaiting audience on the 23rd of May 2014. Timberlake last visited the UAE in 2007 as part of his Justified Tour which was staged at the Abu Dhabi Emirates …

Sri Lanka is an enchanting island paradise with never a lack of things to fascinate you. Among Sri Lanka beach resorts, Anantaya Resort & Spa Chilaw is one of the finestChilaw hotels. Considered to be both a cultural and religious festival in Sri Lanka, Wesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment and passing away of Lord Buddha. Celebrated on the full moon day of May every year, it is the most important day for Buddhists all across the world. The festival sees the country transforming into a land of colourful lanterns adorning every nook and corner as a celebration of the three most significant events of Buddhism. Hordes of pilgrims visit temples all across the country to indulge in religious activities and attain spiritual bliss.   Thanuja Silva …

When in Bangkok make it point to experience some of the vibrant local festivals. Plan on staying at Bangkok serviced apartments? If so, Ascott Sathorn Bangkok features a selection of elegant serviced apartments Bangkok has to offer. One such festival is Visakha Bucha Day which is held in commemoration of Gautama Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and the passing away. It was on this day that Lord Buddha was born and 35 years later attained enlightenment. On the very same day at the age of 80 Buddha passed away to attain nibbana. Due to these reasons, this day is of great significance for Buddhists all over the world. This day in Thailand is a time for Buddhists to reflect on Buddha’s teachings and indulge in various spiritual activities. Thanuja Silva …

Uluwatu is home to idyllic beaches, a sacred temple (Pura Luhur), and some prime surfing spots. Depending on what time of year you visit, you will also be treated to a fabulous array of local festivals that are wonderful to witness and participate in. Ensure you book one of the fine Bali luxury villas to host your stay in the area, and the Alila Villas Uluwatu features an excellent selection of choice Bali boutique villas. Celebrated all over Bali is the local version of Christmas, Galungan, which occurs every 210 days and lasts for 10. It commemorates and welcomes the gods and ancestors to earth to live at their descendants’ dwelling places. The festivities include dances, the purchase and wearing of new clothes, offerings at the temples in …

Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Easter holiday is an important festival that is celebrated by Christians all over the world. Luxury hotels all around the world celebrate this holiday with much zest and vigour and Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas also offer a range of luxury hotel resorts for those who are interested in spending this holiday in style. Typically the most well-attended Sunday service of the year for most churches, Easter can fall anywhere between the 22nd march and the 25th of April. Many nations follow the practice of colouring hard boiled eggs for Easter, as the egg which stands to symbolize new life has become the traditional symbol of the Easter festival itself. The Easter bunny is the popular anthropomorphic character often associated with gift …