One of the best ways to get acquainted with the people of a country is through their music and dance. Folk dances make this possible as they are performed by members of the public at social gatherings and are performed to traditional music that has remained unchanged for hundreds of years. However not all traditional dances can be deemed folk dances as some have ritualistic origins and others are court dances. Although small in size the Maldives has a rich cultural heritage and its songs and dances are a window to the history and culture of its people. While many of its dances reflect the influences of neighbouring nations and visiting travelers and merchants, the Maldives has several dances that are quite home grown. Since …

The Martial Arts Festival of Paris better known as Le Festival des Arts Martiaux is a rare festival that brings all of the world’s greatest martial arts techniques to a single arena. However, one must simply lodge in a luxury hotel Paris to fully witness this momentous occasion. Le Royal Monceau Paris is a 5 star hotel Paris that is known for its class, elegance and the ultimate luxuries that it offers each and every one of its guests, taking care to pamper them in every way possible. The Paris experience is simply not complete without a visit to this hotel that is spinning out legends as we speak. This is one adrenaline pumping event to almost everyone who enjoys a good fight. Every year 15,000 visitors come to …

Also known as Double Tenth Day, the National Day of the Republic of China is a significant day in Taiwan that features several ceremonies. Those heading to the capital during this time and looking for luxury hotels in Taipei can consider Regent Taipei. This luxury hotel Taipei has to offer features a range of contemporary comforts and is ideally located in the Zhong Shan district. Taking place on October 10th, the National Day Celebrations in Taiwan include the raising of the Republic of China flag which is done in front of the Presidential Building in Taipei. During this ceremony the National Anthem is sung followed by cultural performances, while military parades are also known to take place. Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name …

The Royal Ploughing ceremony marks the beginning of the rice-growing season and is a traditional festival celebrated in great fanfare and ardour. In order to fully soak in the ambiance of this charming event, visitors usually choose a Sukhumvit hotel to lodge in during their stay. A popular Bangkok hotel that is chosen by many is Grand Millennium Sukhumvit Bangkok which known for the comforts as well as the true Asian experience that it imparts of each one of its guests. The date of this festival depends on astrological calculations and usually takes place in the months of May, June or July celebrating the beginning of the Buddhist lent in the Burmese month of Waso. During the festival sacred oxen are tied to a wooden plough and they are …

Millennium Resort Patong Phuket is a true urban Phuket resort. The neighborhood of this resort includes shopping malls, restaurants and entertainment location making the resort one of the most preferred Patong resorts. The martial art, Muay Thai is one of the most popular spectator sports available in Thailand. The beginning of this sport dates back to the battles with the Burmese during the fifteenth century. The opportunity to witness live crushing elbow strikes, lethal kicks, artful feints and furious punches are fascinating. The cheering crowds and the sounds of the musical instruments make it more interesting to watch. There are specially built stadiums to hold these games and these stadiums attract a large number of tourists for the night time displays.

Phnom Penh is a bustling town that will keep you occupied during your entire stay. Each day will be about discovering new things, engaging in new experiences and all in all, having loads of fun. From one of Asia’s best night life scenes to artistic creations, culinary cuisines to adrenaline rushing adventure, historical sites to overwhelming nature spots, the choice is endless. Starting with the art scene you can begin by taking a stroll down Street 178. With local artists selling beautiful paintings, the possibilities of striking a good bargain is assured. There are also exquisite handmade items and bolts of Cambodian silk, all displayed to delight you. Want to experience some local culture and traditions, Chatomuk theatre is your best bet. Be mesmerized by …