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 …

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 …

While Macau may be full of glitz, glamour and gaming at its lavish casinos, this destination has a rich history too. A great place to start your journey of discovery would be Senado Square. Getting There Senado Square can be found in the Historic Centre of Macau which has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Within a 12 minute drive from Hotel Okura Macau, this site can be reached by public bus services including the following routes which have stops nearby: 3, 6A, 18A, 33, N1A. What to Expect A visit to Senado Square with its old world charm offers a fascinating contrast to the atmosphere you will find at luxury hotels in Macau. Home to neo-classical buildings, a mosaic-tiled pavement, an old post office …

The traditional New Year celebrations in Sri Lanka is a time marked by families getting together and various customs being observed by the country’s Sinhala and Tamil communities. A National Holiday The traditional New Year or the Sinhala and Tamil New Year generally falls on 13th and 14th April each year. In the villages, it is also celebrated as a harvest festival and it is a national holiday as well. Look to book family or honeymoon hotels in Sri Lanka in advance during this time; places like Amaya Hunas Falls, Kandy give you a chance to experience some of the New Year festivities. Rituals and Customs The New Year period is marked with a series of auspicious times at which various customs are followed. These include boiling milk in …