Many festivals in Thailand mark an important event in the history of the nation or a cultural highlight, such as a birthday of royalty or the dawn of a new year. The annual Thao Thepkasattri – Thao Sri Suntorn Festival which is celebrated in Phuket is no exception. This particular event commemorates the heroic deeds of two local sisters, Thao Thepkasattri and Thao Sri Suntorn (also identified by the names Khunying Chan and Khunying Muk). According to local legend these two heroines rallied the local forces at a time when the island of Phuket was besieged by Burmese invaders. These events took place more than two centuries ago, but even today are fervently celebrated by the local residents. The local city organizes many attractive celebrations …

The Dragon Boat Festival in Singapore is a spectacular annual event which is conducted at the Bedok Reservoir located in the environs of the city. At this much looked forward to event you will be able to see dragon boat crews hailing from many different parts of the globe vying for supremacy in this prestigious and keenly contested competition. In this demanding sport, teams of 22 strong and powerful rowers strain every sinew to help their teams to achieve victory. This unique and enthralling sport has its origins in imperial China in ancient times. Like many activities in this part of the world, dragon boating inherits a rich historical heritage. The legend goes that there was once a great minister and poet, Qu Yuan, who …

The mountainous nation of Bhutan offers many attractions for the visitor and there is no better time to visit this fascinating country than during the much anticipated Takin Festival. The festival is named after the Takin, a unique animal which has the distinction of being the national animal of Bhutan. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, grazing placidly in the grasslands. These animals, unmistakable and surprisingly agile, thrive in the mountain environment. The festival is held in the locality of Gasa within the Jigme Dorji National Park which is counted amongst the largest natural sanctuaries in the nation. This part of the country is beautiful and picturesque, offering sensational panoramas of pristine scenic vistas. This lovely natural …

Shanghai’s largest Buddhist Temple, the Longhua Temple, bursts into a bright flurry of festivity, joy, and colour during the third lunar month (April) of each year. If you are visiting the country or the city, witness this air of festivity permeate everything from your flight to stylish serviced apartments Shanghai has to offer all visitors, such as those at the Ascott Huai Hai Road Shanghai which makes for some excellent accommodation Shanghai. Accompanying the vibrant peach blossoms which burst into life during the spring season, the Longhua Temple emerges with its festival best witness by the colourful lights that decorate the temple interior and exterior, lending the site an enchanting air. Coupled with the enthralling tinkling of the bells, the whole site blooms into a sacred spectacle that …

The home of Tamil cinema and the ‘Gateway to the South’, the city of Chennai is one place you just have to come over to. With a range of places to visit, Chennai is an alluring cosmopolitan that will entice beyond your wildest dreams. The festivals of the area that pay tribute to its rich culture is a time of merrymaking colour and joy for all those fortunate enough to be a part of them. A Chennai serviced apartment will be a good choice of accommodation when in the city. Somerset Greenways Chennai which affords serviced apartments Chennai has to offer should be thought of when examining the numerous choices on offer. Karthikai Deepam which is celebrated on a full moon day between November and …

Each culture has its share of festivals to celebrate religious events, changing of seasons and happenings of local historical importance. These festivals not only reflect the cultural and religious diversity of a country it also provides an outlet for cultural expression. As such the Caribbean region has its own share of colourful religious and secular festivals. In the Bahamas, Nassau and New Providence Island, Junkanoo is celebrated in two stages, the day after Christmas and on New Years’ Day. Nearly a thousand participants in flamboyant costumes dance through the streets to Goombay music. Prizes are awarded for the best costumes. The origin of the event can be traced to West Africa. Kadooment Day with 18th century roots, linked to its sugar cane industry is a …