The period of transit from the last star sign to the first is supposed to be one of defame and bad luck and nothing auspicious is started during that period. In contrast, people try to engage in various religious activities or games and play items abstaining from their usual work, or studying or even for housewives their important household work. The onset of New Year becomes visible even in the weather, as the days grow longer and warmer and sunnier while the mangoes and fruits like Cashew nuts become rounder and riper, their aroma drifting through the villages. The flower called ‘Erabadu’ is one blossom that fills the trees during this particular season and the faithful and timely crowing of the Cuckoo bird is also …

If you want to experience paradise on earth visit Hua Hin, one of the oldest towns that Thailand has. Hua Hin is absolutely beautiful and is known by many both locally and internationally as one of the most romantic destinations to host a wedding. Hua Hin is a very small town. The town having a population of only around 70,000 gives it an authentic and un-spoilt charm. Way back in history Hua Hins unique beauty and serene ambience was recognized by royalty. King Prajadhipok somewhere in the early 1900 built his summer citadel in Hua Hin and named it the ‘Wang Klai Kang Won’ which is translated to ‘Far from Worries’; a perfect description to the tranquility one feels in Hua Hin. Whoever stayed in …

The month of April is the most celebrated month in the Sri Lankan calendar. It is a month for holiday, tradition, unity and pure cultural fun; the month of the renowned festival in the entire calendar; the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. A lot of astrological belief stands behind the significance of this festival. The period of the festival falls at the time when the sun moves from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries. On April 14th the sun stands directly above the island of Sri Lanka. The festival -known as Aluth Avurudu in Sinhala and Puththandu in Tamil- marks the end of the harvest season and commemorates the beginning of a new year in the Saka Era. Culture comes alive during …

Pondicherry is the capital of the Pondicherry Union Territory of Southern India. This being India’s largest French colony, it is referred to as the ‘French Riviera of the East’. The French architectural buildings have been preserved in their original design and many streets still retain their French name. A beautiful blend of the East and West, there is still a significant French influence, especially in the French quarter with boulevards and rues lined with Mediterranean styled houses, bakeries and cafes. In the months of February to March, Pondicherry celebrates one of the most significant Hindu Tamil festivals, the Masi Magam, with much reverence and pageantry. Each year Masi Magam is held on the full moon day of the ‘Magam Nakshastra’, which is month of Masi …

Also known as Rorda Mas, the Maldives Ramadan Festival is one that carries quite a lot of importance in the lives of Maldivians. Maldivian Muslims fast right through the month of Ramadan which falls on the 9th month of the Muslim calendar. This cultural event can only be fully experienced if the visitors lodge in one of the Maldives island resorts that are being raved about quite a lot. Naladhu Maldives is a Maldives Hotel that is popular among the many visitors that visit the country with the aim of participating in the country’s many colourful cultural events. The festival begins with the occurrence of the moon and lasts till the appearance of the next moon. Right through this period, Muslims fast during the day …

A cultural celebration that brings together two ethnic races, the Sinhalese & Tamil New Year offers visitors a chance to experience some unique traditions and fun festivities when in Sri Lanka. Those planning to travel by car around the island during this time can make use of a Sri Lanka car rental company such as Malkey Travel & Tours. Travellers in search of airport transfers Sri Lanka has to offer can also make use of the services offered by this company which has an impressive fleet of vehicles. Taking place during the month of April, the Sinhalese & Tamil New Year is a traditional festival that takes place at the end of the harvesting season. During this time people engage in such activities as cleaning their houses and preparing …