Dubai is a vibrant city having rapidly developed to become a leading tourist destination. For travellers including those who are staying at luxury hotels and resorts, preferably of a luxury hotel group such as Raffles, there is plenty to see and do in the region. Festivals held in the city bring about a spirit of harmony and excitement. With a culture rooted in Islamic traditions, Dubai mainly celebrates religious festivals such as Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. However the world famous, Dubai Shopping Festival has achieved continued success over the years attracting visitors from all corners of the world. Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring …

Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a thriving metropolis that offers a fascinating visitor experience. Encompassing the coast, the city has a rich history, while also showcasing more modern development in its thriving cityscape. From shopping malls to local markets, casinos to nightclubs and lush pockets of greenery to a wide range of restaurants and cafes, Colombo has it all and is definitely worth exploring. The city also has a bourgeoning art scene and those interested in this form of creative expression should look to visit Kala Pola 2013 when next here. This annual street art fair dates back to 1993, when 35 artists displayed their creations. Inspired by such similar events as Oxford University’s, Turl Street Art Festival, this colourful fair has …

A laidback, sleepy, sheep-farming valley turns into a passionate wine making arena during the annual Gibbston Harvest Festival in Queenstown, New Zealand held in March on the third Saturday of the month. It does not fail to attract everyone from professional connoisseurs to simple wine appreciating enthusiasts to indulge a taste of the exquisite produce made by small boutique wineries, local vineyards and many a fine food establishment that are spread about the area. The festival is celebrated to mark the harvest of wine from Gibbston and to salute and toast the spirit of the community that has turned itself into a high profile winemaking body! This festival not only celebrates the Central Otago wines and the grape harvest produced by vineyards and wineries in …

Sri Lanka travel is made easy by Jetwing Travels which offers a variety of Sri Lanka tours. This tropical island is not only blessed with natural beauty but also boasts a rich culture and history which are reflected in various local festivals. Most of the festivals are either national or religious and are celebrated in grand scale. Each April, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is held which incorporates a range of age old traditions. Perhaps the biggest religious festival in the country, Vesak is celebrated all across the nation with much fervour. Deepavali, Ramazan and Christmas are also among the festivals observed in the country.       Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has …

Thanksgiving is a holiday for all communities residing in America and Canada. This state holiday is celebrated on the 4th Thursday every November and is known for its many festivities. In Canada thanksgiving is celebrated on the 2nd Monday of every October. This customary day is dedicated for friends and families to get together in harmony and celebrate a special feast. This meal habitually comprises of cranberry sauce, turkey, potatoes, pumpkin pie, stuffing, gravy and also vegetables. It is a day of giving thanks for what you have received during the year and for the family and friends in your life. Beverly Hills is such a city in the United States that celebrates this holiday in a very joyous and grand style. There are many …

Vietnam boasts a rich history and cultural heritage which can be experienced through the many festivals that take place throughout the year. If you are on the lookout for a Vietnam hotel that offers a luxurious base from which to set off on your explorations, then Anantara Mui Ne Resort & Spa is an ideal choice. This resort in Mui Ne is set amidst a picturesque beach setting and is a great place to unwind after a visit to local festivals. Among the cultural events you can witness when on your journeys include the Lim Festival in Ha Bac which features the singing of quan ho folk songs between boys and girls, the festival of Dong Da hill which commemorates the liberation of Thang Long by King Quang Trung …