Phuket has risen from its lazy traditional village to become a popular tourist hub in the east with its pristine beaches and warm waters drawing tourists from around the globe to bask in and enjoy the sun, sand and surf in this tropical paradise. Kathu is actually one of the three districts of Phuket Island. Muang and Thalang are the other two and Kathu includes the popular Pantong Beach and Kamala Beach as well as the island between Pantong and Phuket. Kathu used to be a tin mining industry based village especially in the 19th and early 20th century and although the tin industry is not flourishing as it used to, the little town has retained its traditional cultures and practices. The Kathu Festival is …

Yas Island located near the city of Abu Dhabi brings an amazing extravaganza in this holy month of Ramadan. That is the one and only SummerFest Abu Dhabi, spanning throughout the month of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr. This amazing show began on the 27th of June 2013 and it is happening until the 17th of August. The SummerFest Abu Dhabi is actually a family friendly wonderland featuring lively concerts, dramas, international stars, celebrity appearances, premieres, summer play grounds, fun fair rides and various other games. This magnificent extravaganza is held in four action packed halls at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and du forum on Yas Island. With the gargantuan three-story obstacle course, rock climbing sites, zip lines, a gigantic maze and extreme …

Guangzhou is one of the most prosperous found in China, and it is also the capital city of Guangdong Province. A hub for cultural, political, educational, scientific, and economic activities in the Guangdong Province, it is a lively locale that must be explored. Tourism is one of the major industries that flourishes in this city. The varied number of restaurants and dining locations that are scattered throughout the area could be seen overflowing with visitors throughout the year. There are a huge number of attractions to keep travellers of all stripes entertained and spellbound. The White Cloud Mountain is one spot that would awe and inspire both the younger and older generations. The Five Ram Statue in Yuexiu Park has been one of the places …

Known to be the holiest month of the year according to the Islamic calendar, the period of Ramadan is a sacred time of the year for all Muslims. With a mostly Islamic population the city of Dubai is at the heart of the celebration as millions of devotees observe the customs and rituals associated with the holy period with great religious fervour and devotion. Ramadan for the year of 2013 will officially commence on the 10th of July and conclude on 9th August this year, precisely a month and one day in duration. Marking the revelation of Islam’s holy text, the Quran, the festival begins with weeks of fasting that culminate in the Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr. The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing …

Lasting just over two months, this Dubai summer event single handedly pulls crowds to its enclaves and leaves its patrons begging for more. Though at first glance it seems like a great place for the kids to spend their summer holidays, the adults get hooked on soon enough. It’s not just the colours, the flamboyance or the cheery nature at the venue, it is also the food, and the excitement and the joy of seeing the children have the time of their life. ‘Modhesh’ is the official mascot of the summer surprise initiative; he is a well behaved role model for all children while being their best friend as well. The yellow squiggly creature with a broad and bright smile plastered to his face has …

According to Chinese mythology, the seventh lunar month is ghostly in nature, with spectres roaming about the earth and spirits making their presences felt by the living. The origins of the tradition are not well known or publicised, and although the customs that are put into action seem to heavily relate to Chinese folk discipline, the commemoration seems to be practiced by Taoists and Buddhists. Unlike other times of the year when descendants pay homage to their ancestors, during the period of the Ghost Month, the deceased are supposed to visit their kith and kin that are still alive. It is customary for Buddhists to offer merit to their forefathers by way of performing good deeds and other meritorious actions. However, the Ghost Month calls …