The Maldives provides you with quite a good blend of the modern and the traditional Islamic customs and most of the festivals are marked by important religious days. Ramadan being the most important celebrations of any Islamic nation, it is celebrated widely in Maldives as well. Marking the end of thirty days of fasting, this reputed day falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is celebrated annually, heavily marked by a lot feasting, spreading the goodwill and joy of the season. Visiting the Maldives during this time of the year could prove to be a bit of a challenge as the business hours are cut down by half but nevertheless you definitely would get a chance to experience Muslim traditions and customs …

Although Christmas in not a public holiday in China; it is celebrated with the same grandeur and glamour exhibited in more opulent nations. Like Valentine’s Day or any other commercial festival, Christmas brings with it plenty of decoration and a whole festive holiday spirit. When you look at the many streets lined with sparkling Christmas trees and hear Christmas carols echo in the distance, you would really be surprised that Christmas is not a religious festival in China. Despite Christianity not being a primary religion in China, the country houses a substantial amount of churches. After all, China does have a population of 1.3 billion people and the Christians, according to statistics, make about 2 % of this population. Nevertheless the younger generation of China …

The Spring Lantern Festival is enthusiastically celebrated in China, neighbouring nations and by the Chinese diaspora around the world. In Hong Kong it is an occasion of joy and relaxation, when all sections of society unite to celebrate the event as one. The festival which occurs on the15th day of the earliest month of the lunar calendar falls on the final day of the New Year festivities. The event is also known as the Chinese Valentine’s Day as couples take the opportunity to spend cherished moments together on this occasion. In times past single people would try their hand at matchmaking pursuits on this special day. As you might expect on this night a myriad of lanterns are constructed, with innumerable colourful lanterns adorning storefronts, …

Colourful costumes overflowing with grandeur, energetic movements and thudding drum beats characterize this lively yet elegant dance portraying the proud and rich heritage of the Sri Lankan nation. Originating from the central hills region of the country, there are plenty of hotels Sri Lanka amongst which Hotel Hilltop is amongst the hotels Sri Lanka in which one can lodge in while exploring this ancient art. It is said that the origins of the dance lies in the Kohomba Kankariya, originally performed by Indian shamans who came to the island to cure a king who had a recurring dream. The Kandyan Dance is a venerated art form and follows a tradition of its own. In the olden days, this dance was performed by dancers who belonged …

The ceremony known as Pagerwesi is an important part of being a Balinese, as it is celebrated across all economic backgrounds, observed with great reverence and due ceremony. If you’re on the island during the time of Pagerwesi, ensure you check in at one of the Bali luxury villas in the city such as the luxurious Alila Villas Uluwatu. Offering you stylish Bali boutique villas graced by attentive hospitality and sumptuous luxury, your time in Bali is sure to be unforgettable here. Otherwise known as Rerainan Gumi by the locals, it is celebrated every 210 days on what is known as the Wednesday of Shinta, which is the first week according to the local Pukawon calendar system. Pagerwesi translates to “iron fence”, and stands for an element of protection …

A town in Bali, Indonesia, Ubud has a rich history and is noted for a number of festivals. Travellers on the lookout for Ubud accommodation can go for an option such as Alila Ubud Bali, a preferable Ubud hotel. Travellers to the region looking to get a unique cultural experience will truly enjoy Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, which brings brilliant writers, visionaries, musicians, artists and performers together to celebrate all forms of storytelling including poetry, plays, graphic novels, song writing and travel writing. Having long been Bali’s centre of fine arts, music and dance, Ubud also plays host to the Ubud Jazz Festival, one full of entertainment and vigour.