Observed in the Hindu calendar month of Bhaadrapada, the Vinayak Chathurthi festival usually falls between 19 August and 20 September lasting for a period of 10-12 days ending on Anant Chaturdashi. Book a Pondicherry hotel during the festival to take part in all the activity and Hotel Atithi is known to offer comfortable Pondicherry accommodation allowing you to participate the festivities with peace of mind. It is said that this is the day that Shiva declared his son Ganesha as superior to all the gods and it is believed that on this day, Ganesha bestows his presence on earth for his devotees on this day. Hindus prepare for this festival several months before hand by creating clay statues of the Ganesha which are then installed in houses and public places in pandals. …

The Middle East has always been known for its wild and raw edge. Perhaps it is the vast expanses of dry and harsh desserts that almost compels one to be daring enough to survive it; and that’s what makes up most of the Middle East. With the rough desserts dawns a whole world in itself; on the one hand you get the dessert culture and on the other you get the sport. And like with any new way of life, it is both fascinating and intriguing to learn about. The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) is a fantastic place to stop by and absorb an authentic touch of the Arabian life style. Although its key focus sectors are hunting and Equestrian, at …

A fascinating aspect of Thai culture is the nine-day purge known as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Held each year in the month of October, the festival includes an unusual parade that may take you aback the first time that you witness the strange sights. People pierce their tongue, cheeks and other parts of the body with sharp metal objects. Some even go to the extent of carrying large metal tools through their piercings. For instance, some carry bicycles, large swords and rifles which are pierced through the cheek and the tongue and balanced by both hands. The ritual is intense and is somewhat gruesome to watch, and it is not the type of thing that most tourists are accustomed to. However, the strength and the …

Vietnam is a country that boasts a vibrant array of cultural festivals that each showcases a different facet of its bejewelled society. One such example amongst many others is the festival of Keo Pagoda, which lasts for three days in honour of the famed Buddhist Monk of yore, Khong Lo. The festival is held twice each year; in the spring of the fourth day of the first lunar month and in the autumn from the 13th to the 15th day of the ninth lunar month. Emphasis, though, is given to the ninth lunar month’s 14th day as it is not only Khong Lo’s birthday but the 100th day after the official date of his death. Come closer and listen well, for legend tells of the …

Hong Kong, one of the Special Administrative Region’s of the Republic of China, is one the most developed region’s in Southeast Asia. Known for its magnificent skyline and vibrant society, it is also one of the world’s most important financial centres. Hong Kong’s rich heritage, historical and cultural landmarks, recreational attractions and events, and unique lifestyle have also made it popular amongst tourists. An annual event which has gained international repute in just a short span of years is the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival. Celebrating some of the finest wines in the world, accompanied by exquisite dishes, this enthralling event is both grand and lively. Attracting wine and food lovers from all over the globe this festival was even recently added into the …

The southwest province of Yunnan in China is home to the prefecture of Xishuangbanna, which offers a splendid cultural offering that is worth discovering. It is home to the Dai ethnic community, which accounts for 34% of the state’s population and the annual water-splashing festival in the month of April is a fun event celebrated and enjoyed to the fullest by locals and visitors alike. The best way to soak up the festivities is from a quality hotel Yunnan has to offer its visitors, such as the Anantara Xishuangbanna. With its elegantly-appointed interiors and scenic locale, it is an ideal hotel in Yunnan to host your stay. When you visit Xishuangbanna during the month of April, which coincides with the Chinese New Year, you are …