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 …

Floating away like colorful dreams across the March skies of the paradise island, will be hot air balloons of many colors and shapes during a happy festive time. While those below view the spectacular sight enraptured, the ones on high will be speechless at the vista spread beneath their feet. The Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival in Sri Lanka, will come alive in its vibrant form in the month of March, when the weather is fine and the sun shines bright all day. The event, which is organized by Air Magic, which is a leading hot air ballooning company in Sri Lanka, will last for 10 fun-filled days in Colombo, and is visited by many enthusiasts from all across the world. Close to 40 participants …

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 …

One of the most significant festivals celebrated by the Miao and Li ethnic communities of Sanya is the Chinese Valentine’s Day, which falls on March 3, according to the lunar calendar. Witness and participate in the festivities of this famous event, made all the more enjoyable when residing at a luxury hotel in Yunnan such as the Anantara Xishuangbanna. With gracious hospitality and elegant interiors, you will be able to enjoy your time at this quality hotel Yunnan has to offer in the region. Single young people and couples who are unmarried eagerly look forward to the Chinese Valentine’s Day, which is when they will be able to focus their energies on finding a partner, or declare their love for each other. The most populous …