Author Archives: caleb

New Year Celebrations in Indonesia, a festive extravaganza

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Just like other people around the globe, Indonesians welcome the New Year with great joy and festivity. The excitement naturally begins on December 31st, when Indonesians like their counterparts in other countries prepare to bid farewell to the year that is drawing to a close. It is a time for reflection on the twelve months that have passed by, and to celebrate the successes and milestones that have been achieved.

In Indonesia many of the public festivities are centred on the urban areas, where families and friends get together to party the night away. Groups of people get together in car and motorcycle convoys in which they roam the streets of the big cities, notably the capital Jakarta.

Since many Indonesians work on New Year’s Eve the celebrations really get into swing after office hours. Many Indonesians purchase celebratory items like fireworks, paper trumpets and paper hats on their way to their homes where the children will be awaiting them eagerly.

Popular restaurants, hotels and discotheques offer festive specials like promotional meals, dancing and other entertainment. In the capital Jakarta the festivities will typically include a musical show, a countdown for the New Year and the indispensable fireworks display. Indonesians eagerly watch these sensational fireworks displays, when a vast quantity of spectacularly colourful fireworks is released. The major locations for the celebrations are the National Monument, the Ancol Dreamland resort and the Taman Mini recreational area.

On the other hand the island of Bali is another delightful place to usher in the New Year with foreigners as well as locals enjoying themselves in the picturesque surroundings of Kuta Beach. Many of the local establishments such as nightclubs, bars and cafes will organize special performances and entertainment presentations.

Indonesians are by and large a friendly and hospitable people who will welcome you to their festivities and celebrations. With so much to see and do Indonesian has become a very popular venue for holidaymakers who wish to usher in the New Year in style.

When in search of luxury hotels Indonesia has to offer, a traveller can opt for a choice such as Starwood Indonesia. Indonesia 5 star hotels of this calibre ensure a pleasurable stay with plush comforts and attentive service.

 

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 new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

New Year Celebration in Maldives – Heralding a New Beginning

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If you are looking for a unique way to ring in the New Year, then consider heading to the Maldives where you can combine a fun holiday in the tropics with much celebration and festivities. An ideal option would be to stay at a Maldives island resort such as Kuramathi Island where you can herald in the New Year in an intimate getaway by the sea. This luxurious resort features charming Maldives villas that provide an ideal home away from home in this tropical paradise.

Those wanting to witness the pomp and pageantry of locals during New Year can head to such destinations as the capital Male, where one can witness a variety of festivities. December 31st see the city streets come alive at night with dancers, drummers and musicians performing in certain areas as well. Houses and residences are often decorated in lights and restaurants are open till late. It is a great time to try out local dishes too and foni boakiba, kuli boakiba and gula are worth sampling. Resorts also sometimes have their own firework displays providing a truly enchanting spectacle as the New Year rolls in.

New Year’s Day – Celebrating in Langkawi

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An archipelago of numerous islands in the Andaman Sea makes up Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah. Known as the land of all one’s wishes these pretty islands offer a getaway to paradise. It is an entirely duty-free area and the entire island is full of activities to keep visitors engaged with. From scenic waterfalls to picturesque rice gardens and thrilling adventure parks to rustic villages, the time spent here will give you a diverse range of experiences. The highlight of Langkawi is its many beaches, soft sandy shores that can be quiet sanctuaries or happening party hotspots depending on what you are looking for.

Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach in Langkawi and stretches continuously for 2 kms. Pantai Kok in contrast is a quiet beach with less people. It also has many waterfalls located in its vicinity. Datai Bay is the most expensive beach in terms of prices. Pantai Tengah is known as ‘Middle Beach’ and is very popular among families. Tanjung Rhu has mangroves, limestone crags, ancient limestone caves and pristine beaches, making it the spot for those who love nature.

These beaches are very popular for parties especially during New Year’s. Watching a breathtaking display of fireworks and floating lanterns, while the waves lap at your feet is an ideal setting in which to share with that special someone as you await the stroke of midnight. Bonfires are lit on the beach and tourists and locals dance together ushering in a brand new year. Food and drinks are plentiful and there are activities for the little ones as well. The hospitable character of the locals makes you feel extremely welcome and sets the perfect mood for a party.

Look to stay at a Langkawi beach resort that also organizes New Year eve bashes for their guests. No matter what time of year you visit, a good option would be Westin Resort Nusa Dua Bali. This 5 star hotel in Langkawi features a private beachfront providing an idyllic setting to enjoy a fun day by the sea. It also provides the very best in modern comforts and conveniences and lets you enjoy the very best the region has to offer.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Chinese Lunar New Year’s Day – Colourful Celebrations in The Lion City

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Declared a public holiday each year the Chinese New Year is no ordinary cultural festival in the Lion City of Singapore. Marked during the last days of January this engaging local festival is celebrated with great pomp and pageantry by the island nation’s Chinese community although it is equally popular among Singaporeans of all faiths and visitors alike. The 2014 Chinese New Year falls on the 31st of January and this year harks in the Year of the Horse. Also known as the Lunar New Year and the Singapore Spring Festival this one of a kind event brings together the traditions of the Chinese celebration with all its customs and rituals and combines it with vibrant parades and street parties.

Taking place from the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar to the 15th the public holidays for the Lunar New Year officially lasts till 1st January, 2014 only. It is customary for Chinese residents of Singapore to engage in household refurbishments and cleaning to rid the space of bad luck according to Chinese beliefs. Purchasing new clothes and visiting loved ones also hits an all time high during this period where exchanging red hued Hong Bao money pouches is also a common practice. Chinese New Year’s Eve dinners also known as “reunion meals” are also a prominent feature during the festival when the Chinatown area is littered with red lanterns, sweetmeats, and night markets. The Chinatown Street Light-Up ceremony and the parades down Kreta Ayer Square also encompass lion dances, fire displays, and other colorful performances.

The Chingay Parade is perhaps the nation’s most popular feature at this event as the mega carnival with giant floats, magicians, dancers and fire-breathers takes centre stage on the Marina Bay waterfront on the Formula One Pit Building grounds. The River Hangbao festivities are also conducted during the conclusion of the New Year when the entire region comes live with lanterns, fireworks, street performers, and fantastic shopping opportunities.

Travellers in search of a luxury hotel in Singapore should look no further than the elegant Sheraton Towers Singapore. Conveniently located this 5 star hotel in Singapore provides stylish accommodation for business travellers as well as holidaymakers.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

New Year Celebrations in Negombo – Heralding the New Dawn

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Known for its pristine sun drenched beaches and exciting water sports, the island of Sri Lanka offers the perfect coastal getaway. This enchanting tropical paradise providing many exciting experiences that take you on a unique journey of discovery, as you learn more about the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage as well. A great destination to visit the whole year through, Sri Lanka is also an ideal place to herald in the New Year. Spending the 31st of December on the coast is well worth experiencing and one of the best locales to do so is in Negombo.

Located along the West Coast, Negombo is conveniently situated near the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake making it a great base for those entering and leaving the country. Being a coastal town, Negombo is an idyllic locale, well suited for sun bathing, swimming, water sports and cultural sightseeing too.

It is in this backdrop that one can look to celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. New Year celebrations in Negombo are mostly centred along the beach areas which are major attractions in themselves. The shore lined with soft golden sands and bordered by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean gives you the chance to enjoy the laidback island lifestyle as you await the midnight hour.

Beach parties are popular events that take place during this time and the coastline offers the perfect setting in which to party and dance the night away. Amidst all this revelry one may also find firework displays which light up the night sky. As midnight approaches the frequency of fireworks and crackers increase providing a unique New Year audiovisual experience. One can also visit the pubs in the area which provide plenty of food and drink to keep you satisfied.

When the New Year finally dawns, look to be on the beach where you can share this special moment with family, friends or that special someone.

If you are heading to this picturesque part of Sri Lanka and are looking for a beach hotel Negombo has to offer, then consider Club Hotel Dolphin. This hotel in Negombo provides an ideal base from which to explore the town as well as celebrate the New Year.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Cultural Events in Sri Lanka – Colourful Multicultural Celebrations

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A land of various ethnicities, traditions and religious beliefs, Sri Lanka has a wide range of cultural events each year that showcase the island’s rich heritage. If you are planning a holiday in Sri Lanka look to witness some of the events that are taking place during the course of your stay. One of the best ways to explore the country is by signing up for sightseeing tours and Sri Lanka Holiday Travel is one option worth considering. Featuring some of the best holiday travel Sri Lanka has to offer, this well known tour operator takes you to key locations around the island.

There is some kind of cultural event taking place almost every month in Sri Lanka. January is when Hindus celebrate Thai Pongal in honour of the Hindu Sun God. Part of the celebrations includes preparing a rice dish known as ‘Pongal’. April heralds the Sinhala and Tamil New Year and is a time of family reunions and get-togethers. Ceremonies and traditions take place according to auspicious times and there are a great many festivities and games held during this month. One of the most important cultural events in May is what is known as Vesak and is a time when Buddhist devotees remember the birth and enlightenment of Lord Buddha. Apart from visiting the temple, it is customary for people to create elaborate lanterns during this time. Not to be missed is a chance to witness the Esala Perahera in July or August in the hill capital Kandy. Here one can witness a truly spectacular procession featuring many elephants and dancers.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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FIFA U-17 World Cup UAE 2013 – Watch It Live in the Emirates

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FIFA’s Under 17 Football World Cup will be hosted by United Arab Emirates in 2013. The event is scheduled to take place from the 17th of October and will go on till the 18th of November. This year there are around 24 international teams competing for the title of Under 17 World Cup Champion. According to the FIFA website 52 matches will be played during the course of the three weeks that the World Cup will be held.

The UAE has planned for this event since 2012 and there are six stadiums that will host the matches scheduled including Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium, Fujairah Stadium and Al- Ain Emirates Stadium. National teams representing the African region are Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Morocco and Tunisia, while strong teams from the Asian region include Uzbekistan, Japan, Iraq and UAE are hoping to give it their best at this year’s tournament.

From the qualifying rounds the one team that represents Oceania is New Zealand and it will be interesting to see how they perform in the matches. All football fans are looking forward to the South American line up this year with football powerhouses the likes of Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela and Uruguay all making it through the qualifying rounds.

European football teams include Italy, Slovakia, Croatia, Russia, Sweden and Austria though England is a notable absence. North and Central American teams have some great players coming in with Mexico, Honduras and Panama all promising to bring their “A game” for the tournament this year.

What is attractive about the Under 17 FIFA World Cup is that it introduces new talent and provides a platform for rising football stars. Most of the players go on to play professionally in the national teams and at the Under 17 tournament you can catch a glimpse of these players and their skills.

To avoid disappointment in finding accommodation during this time, make sure to book ahead and choose from the suitable Abu Dhabi hotels on offer. Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi is an ideal Abu Dhabi city hotel worth considering and features a range of modern comforts and conveniences to make your stay all the more memorable.

UAE National Day – Expressions of Joy in the Middle East

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The UAE celebrates its National Day collectively for two days from the 2nd of December. It commemorates the 1971 ending of a treaty signed with the UK in 1892 and the decision of seven separate sheikdoms of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman and Ras Al Kaimah to unify forming the present country also in the same year.

The National Day celebrated in all the emirates usually starts on the final day of November if there is a long weekend involved. The lead up to the big day is celebrated with a series of free public events such as hot air balloon rides, concerts by khaleeji performers, falconry competitions, regattas, carnivals, art shows and night markets. On the day itself residents across the UAE drape the Union’s flag on every possible vantage point, one of the most popular being on vehicles which also feature pictures of their rulers. Young and old Emiratis also take to the streets in fancy dress and in their decorated vehicles that are driven through the streets in convoys.

Abu Dhabi generally hosts a car parade on Yas Island where the best ‘dressed’ vehicles wins AED 25,000 prize money. However each emirate has their own trademark events such as street parades by school children, colourful dancers from various parts of the world, traditional dancers and drummers and even tribal horsemen. In the 2012 celebrations, Abu Dhabi unfurled a 41 foot UAE flag and Sharjah hoisted one on a 123 metre high flag pole.

Dubai’s Festival City featured a show on the Spirit of the Union that focused on landmark achievements of the Emirates.The latest sound and light techniques and 3D effects were employed to present the show making it a unique event. Fireworks displays light up the night sky in the Emirates to end the celebrations. Abu Dhabi had two fireworks displays in their 2012 celebrations, one in the Corniche and the other at Mina Zayed in Gharbia. The display was set to the remix version of a classical UAE song. 17,000 fireworks were shot skywards in two 10 minute long displays from boats, barges and from land.

Emiratis also celebrated the day online when they took to social media networks to express their patriotism and happiness by posting live celebratory pictures, tweets and texts. Even the rulers took to the internet to send their citizens celebratory messages.

For anyone wanting to experience the desert in all its raw beauty Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is probably the best place. Located in the Liwa Desert, this one of much praised luxury hotels Abu Dhabi offers the ultimate desert experience from a luxurious base. One of the leading Abu Dhabi hotels it features expansive accommodation in the form of a well appointed spacious collection of guestrooms, suites and pool villas, great international cuisines from a range of dining venues, relaxing spa treatments and to top it all off, a series of amazing desert experiences.

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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FIFA U17 World Cup UAE 2013 – Football Action in Dubai

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The FIFA Under 17 Football World Cup is scheduled to commence on the 17th of October 2013. The event will run through till 18th of November and 24 international teams are vying for the World Cup. Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Morocco and Tunisia are the teams that will be representing the African region while the Asian teams comprise of Iran, Japan, Uzbekistan, Iraq and UAE.

Europe has a large contingent with 6 countries competing at the sporting event; Austria, Italy, Slovakia, Croatia, Russia and Sweden are the teams that will come under the European wing. North and Central American teams are also part of the FIFA U17 World Cup with Canada, Mexico, Honduras and Panama all taking part. One team, representing New Zealand is part of the Oceania region and is followed by South American teams coming from Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Venezuela.

The FIFA U17 World Cup is in its fifteenth year for 2013 and surprisingly the American team did not qualify for the event. The World Cup is hosted by UAE and there are six venues that were proposed for the games namely the Abu Dhabi Khalifa Bin Stadium, Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium, Ras Al Khaimah, Al- Ain Emirates Stadium, Fujairah Stadium and Sharjah Stadium. Fifty two matches have been scheduled and these will be played out over the three weeks of the tournament.

The U17 World Cup is known to draw in a lot of sport enthusiasts mainly because the games showcase some of the upcoming football stars who are just breaking into this popular sport. There are also many activities that you can participate in if you visit Dubai to watch the tournament, making this a much anticipated event in the Emirati region.

Since the World Cup will draw in a large number of football fans it is best to look for a Dubai hotel and book rooms early. Stay at a Deira hotel Dubai which offers well placed accommodation and great services too. One such option worth considering is Copthorne Hotel Dubai which provides an ideal base for your travels and lets you experience and enjoy the very best this enchanting region has to offer.

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Middle East Exclusive 2013 – Enjoying Luxury Brands Under One Roof

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Middle East Exclusive 2013 is by far one of the most unique events that will be hosted in the region this year. The exhibition calls in representatives from international and regional travel industries and they showcase most of the world’s leading and premier brands to a large number of enthusiastic international buyers and distributors. Airports, duty free operators, shops, hotels, airlines and shipping companies come in to view and purchase the amazing array of products that are available.

The Middle East has always been an excellent business platform because of the number of duty free goods and luxury items that are brought in from across the world. Dubai is a centre for shopping and distributing luxury brands and this exhibition is the ideal location for introducing new products and items. Since UAE is recognized as a hub for tourism the Middle East Exclusive is one of the best exhibitions in the region. At the last event over 200 brands were exhibited. Luxury goods are the highlight of the event: fashion accessories, cosmetics, tobacco products, watches, novelty items, leather goods, fragrances, home décor, tech gadgets and liquors are some of the products that are available.

Even though the targeted audience for the exhibition is large retail companies, even visitors to the exhibition will find some great deals at this place. The Middle East Exclusive is scheduled to commence on the 18th of November and will remain open till the 20th of November at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The exhibition is perfect for those looking to buy products in bulk. You can always arrange for shipping and the wholesale price of items are a definite bargain.

November is one of the peak seasons for tourism in Dubai so it is best to arrange your accommodation in advance. Most visitors opt for lodging at a Dubai airport hotel since it is convenient and located close to the airport. You can choose from a5 star hotel Dubai has to offer along the stretch outside the airport area. If you are aiming for luxury accommodation consider Millenium Airport Hotel Dubai which features some of the very best in contemporary comforts and conveniences that help make for a truly memorable stay.