Music, movement, colour and culture; those are the ingredients that make Balinese dance somewhat hypnotic in its effect as it sweeps you out of this world. Like the lush natural beauty that adorns this quaint and remarkably picturesque island, culture has an almost artistic touch in Bali. Be it song, dance or a mere religious ritual there is so much of essence in each performance. Bali being an island etched with rich culture boasts an array of dance performances. Largely dramatic, these performances give you a taste of authentic Bali like nothing else. The Balinese dance is in fact an ancient tradition that goes way back in time. It is primarily religious in nature, but there are those performed merely for entertainment as well. The …

Barong Dance is the most popular of all the Balinese Dances. It depicts the typical traditional dance form; where a story -typically a myth or legend- is narrated through a series of choreographed movements and expressions. Indonesian myth and legends have links to the religion that precedes the island; Hinduism. Their tales are so powerful that when emulated in the form of dance it becomes almost hypnotizing. The Barong Dance is one such performance; powerful and intense this dance is the very epitome of the battle between the good and the evil. The Barong Dance is purely classical and is comprised of a series of traditional moves. The tale narrated through this dance is actually a very interesting one. The dance begins with the beast …

Celebrating the birth, enlightenment and the death of Lord Buddha, Vesak is a veritable celebration of light. Celebrated by Buddhists all over the world, Sri Lanka cloaks itself in bright lights, lanterns and much festivity during this time of the year, enveloping the whole of the country in a sense of joyful celebration. There are many Sri Lanka hotels which offer guests accommodation during this time amongst which Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara offrs the additional advantage of treatments of Ayurveda Sri Lanka is quite famous for. Vesak in Sri Lanka falls on a full moon poya day in the month of May and is celebrated for a period of two weeks. During this time, entire families get together to make colourful lanterns and gigantic pandols decorated with multicoloured lights …

Known to be the largest International Trade Fair for Beauty Products, Cosmetics and Perfumery in the Middle East, the Beautyworld Middle East is once again being held in 2014 from 27th May to 29th May 2014, allowing all those beauty conscious individuals a chance to truly explore the world of cosmetics. Finding   accommodation in Dubai during this period will not be an issue since Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa is a reputed Palm Jumeirah hotel that is known to cater to every single need of discerning travellers. Evolving steadily over the past 17 years since its inception, this show-stopping beauty show features a wide range of cutting edge products and services from around the world, thereby serving as a one stop destination for all your beauty needs, …

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 …

Rich in culture and history, the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan also features a wide range of annual festivals which offer unique insights into the country’s heritage and its people. Travellers can make use of Bhutan tour packages that take you to regions where one can witness these cultural celebrations in all their splendour. Another option would be to stay at a centrally located Bhutan hotel such as Uma Bhutan which is ideally placed in the Paro Valley, making for an excellent base for your travels. When it comes to festivals in Bhutan, there is much to choose from. Tshechu is a festival celebrated in order to honour the birthday of Guru Rimpoche though the exact date of the event can vary from place to place. Thimphu Tshechus and Paro …