Ramadan, sometimes referred to as Ramazan, is the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar. The month, which lasts between twenty nine and thirty days (as it follows the lunar cycle), will be spent in fasting and prayer. In 2013, the month will occur between July and August. It is obligatory for all Muslims to fast between sunrise and sunset, forsaking food and water during this period. It is generally not a popular time to visit Abu Dhabi as the flow of activity in the emirate is disrupted. Offices work shorter hours and many restaurants remain closed during the daytime. On the other hand, this also means that crowded tourist spots are no longer crowded and that one need not wait in long lines …

Celebrated every year on the 1st of October, the National day of Hong Kong and China was established in 1949 amidst grand festivities at the iconic Tiananmen Square. This signified the start of a golden era in the People’s Republic of China. Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau come alive with celebrations on this day, and public places like Tiananmen Square in Beijing and Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong are treated to spectacular fireworks displays and animated festivities, along with colourful concerts for the public to enjoy. If you are visiting Hong Kong around the time of the National Day, make sure you take part in the festivities and most of all, choose a good place from which you can see the sky line of …

The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed some of the greatest explorations instigated by the then euro centric world that eventually gave rise to the British and French empires as each state attempted to explore and conquer as many states as possible. With the rapid expansion of these empires, more than one third of the globe experienced colonial rule for at least a century. However, the intervention from the United Nations and the financial setbacks experienced during the world wars resulted in many of these colonies receiving independence from their colonial rulers and the day in which this independence was received was known as their Independence Day or National Day. Vietnam’s National Day falls on the 2nd of September which honours the Vietnam Declaration of Independence …

The festival which is organised in Cha-am City, Hua Hin is one of the most sought after attractions where visitors can witness the pomp and pageantry of local and international kite designs. The ‘Chula’ and ‘Pakpao’ are the two variants of kites that are part of the competition. Out of the Hua Hin hotels on offer, Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort with its well furnished suites and tropical gardens will be the perfect place for you to experience the best of beach hotels Hua Hin Thailand. A highlight of the festival is the competition that takes place between the Chula and Pakpao teams. The objective is to drag your opponent’s kites to your territory. Capture the finest of kite flyers from the world commune at …

Kiep Bac is a scenic village in Vietnam, a dream like valley surrounded by green mountains and canopies of white mist. This place is mostly known for its association with national hero Tran Hung Dao. He used Kiep Bac as his hideout during the 13th century. Vietnam’s supreme commander during the Tran Dynasty, Dao is acclaimed for his military tactics and has won victories against the likes of Kublai Khan. Because of such feats as well as his loyalty, humbleness and simple qualities, he is considered a saint and worshipped by many Vietnamese. The Kiep Bac Temple is a place of worship for those who want to pray to Tran Hung Dao. In fact the temple has a festival occurring on the 20th day of …

Experience the excitement, pageantry and historical splendour of the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, which commemorates the cultural merging of eastern and western cultures over 2,000 years ago, completely transforming the Jordanian landscape. Unfolding during late July and early August, its occurrence during low peak tourist seasons ensures that you will be able to check into a luxury Amman hotel such as the Millennium Hotel Amman. Featuring luxury interiors and 5-star service, this hotel in Amman Jordan is a welcome choice to host your stay. Take part in the spirited grandeur of the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts to experience a truly unique Jordanian event that celebrates its vibrant and eclectic cultural make-up. Founded by Queen Noor in 1981, the festival has become …