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Miss World 2013 – Global Beauties Taking Centre Stage!

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Due to take centre stage on the 18th of September this year, the 2013 edition of the Miss World beauty pageant is set to take place in the sunny landscapes of Indonesia’s holiday capital Bali. As the world’s most watched and coveted beauty pageant, the Miss World contest is a global brand with its very own fan following as the pageant and the weeks leading up to it are made into a television series by producers of the glamorous event. While the Sentul International Convention Centre in the Nusa Dua Complex is the official venue of the final crowning ceremony the stunning contestants hailing from over 150 nations across the world will take part in a series of mini-pageants in the weeks leading up to the final day, that will factor in to the selection of the winner on the 28th of September.

This year’s Miss World pageant sees three countries make their debut in the history of the beauty contest with Kosovo, Brunei and Uzbekistan sending nationally selected representatives to compete for the title for the first time. Broadcasted live to television audiences around the world which number in the millions, the historic competition is also deemed one of the largest television events of the year. The reigning Miss World, Yu Wenxia of the People’s Republic of China will also be in attendance to handover the crown to the new Miss World of 2013.

The Sentul International Convention Centre will play host to a whopping 11,000 attendees on the final night of the Miss World competition where headlining acts from around the world will also entertain the crowd with performances. Fitted with state-of-the-art audio visual gear the venue is the largest stadium of its nature in all of Indonesia and was thus selected to host the grand event watched by millions on television.

Encompassing an evening gown contest as well as a gruelling round of questions by a panel of esteemed judges one unique feature of this year’s pageant is the elimination of the bathing suit contest in favour of a more modest bathing attire competition, with contestant donning sarongs as a sign of respect for the host nation’s Islamic values.

Travellers on the lookout for luxury hotels in Seminyak should look no further than the W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak. Providing visitors with a tranquil setting for a relaxing holiday it is little wonder this elegant resort is ranked amongst the best 5 star hotel Seminyak has on offer.

Kataragama Festival, a spectacular event

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The town of Kataragama in Sri Lanka is famed as a popular pilgrimage destination for many devotees from all parts of the country and even overseas, attracting Hindus, Buddhists and even the indigenous Veddah community.

Hindu and Buddhist veneration of Kataragama has been practiced for centuries, with followers of these two religions holding slightly different beliefs regarding the site. Tamil Hindus identify the presiding deity of the locality as Lord Katirkaman, who is identified as Skanda-Murugan, also known as Subramanya.

Buddhists, on the other hand, consider the local divinity to be Kataragama Deviyo, a protective deity of Buddhists and their religion. In fact the town is revered as one of the sixteen most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the island.

However there is no doubt that the most looked forward to time of the year at the famed Kataragama Temple is the annual festival season. This much anticipated occasion falls on the full moon day of Esala, which generally occurs in July or August. This is a vibrant and hectic occasion, when thousands of devotees throng the town to demonstrate their devotion to the presiding deity. Drummers show off their artistry and majestic elephants in rich attire are paraded.

Favours are requested from the divinity and firm vows are made. There are those who go to extraordinary lengths to show their complete dedication to the godhead, performing amazing acts of seemingly excruciating rites of self-mortification. Some of these devotees roll bare-bodied across the sandy areas near the venerated temple; others swing, apparently oblivious to the pain, from metal hooks piercing their bodies. Still others dare to walk over red-hot coals whilst the onlookers shout out words of encouragement.

The festival concludes with the water-cutting rite which is performed in the nearby Menik River, which is thought to bring rain and usher in plentiful harvests. With so many distinctive sights, sounds and sensations the spectacular Kataragama Festival never fails to enthral the visitor, irrespective of age or nationality.

Travellers to the island seeking a fine Sri Lanka beach hotel will be pleased by Mermaid Hotel & Club. This attractive Kalutara hotel provides quality accommodations and attentive hospitality that makes your stay all the more memorable.

 

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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Hua Hin Golf Festival – Golfing Fun in Thailand

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While holidaying at a destination that gives you a chance to play on some of the most scenic courses in the region is incentive enough for golfers, the Hua Hin Golf Festival adds even more to the allure of this idyllic coastal getaway. This annual festival generally takes place between August and September and those in search of beach hotels Hua Hin Thailand has to offer that makes an ideal base for their stay can consider Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort. One of the best Hua Hin hotels in the area, this well placed property is also within easy reach of several golf courses including the Palm Hills course.

Attracting amateur and veteran golfers alike, the Hua Hin Golf Festival gives you the chance to play at some of the region’s leading courses that offer significant discounts on their green fees. During the festival period many courses also have exciting competitions and tournaments that add to the excitement of playing here. Palm Hills, Sea Pine, Royal Hua Hin and Majestic Creek are some of the golf courses that have been associated with the festival and let you enjoy a truly unforgettable day out on the greens.

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+

Petroleum Exhibition in Abu Dhabi – A global event for the petroleum industry

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With its central position as a provider of fuel to the world, Abu Dhabi has done its duty by initiating an international exhibition for petroleum and is already to go on board in 2013. ADIEPEC as it is best known for the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference will take place in November 2013 between the 10th and 13th.

Having had 15 successful years behind it had helped this year’s conference that is scheduled to be held in even grander style with much attention to various important areas associated with the industry of petroleum. As the conference keeps its topics and themes in close association with the trends of the industry, this year’s theme has been named as ‘gas as a primary and useful resource of energy’, that is in keeping with the latest trend and interest of the world at large.

This event is one of the best global platforms to discuss relevant issues pertaining to the industry and also to come to conclusions as well as consensuses as the exhibition attracts over 50,000 international delegates and over 1,500 suppliers of the industry. In addition professionals from all over the world share their experiences for the betterment of the industry as a whole. The exhibition is said to hold more than 1,500 exhibits spread over a generous space with over 8,000 minutes dedicated during the whole exhibition to exchange and transfer knowledge. This annual event is definitely the largest regional gas and oil conference with about 50 sessions and 235 speakers who expected to deliver and share their experiences. The event that is put together by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and UAE’s Ministry of Energy is scheduled this year to be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

Accommodation Abu Dhabi need not pose a problem for any visitor to the conference as the city has its own abundance of luxurious dwelling places in the hospitality industry to pamper weary travellers. Eastern Mangroves, Abu Dhabi offers a range of refined living spaces, tinged with sophistication as well as the country’s own authentic feel about it. For the discerning traveller who is looking for a renowned hotel in Abu Dhabi, this serves as the perfect paradise with luxurious interiors and spectacular views.

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+

The Peak to Peak Queenstown – Competing Between the Summits

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If you happen to be in New Zealand during the season of snowflakes and snowmen, this is one event to look forward to. The unique race takes place from one sand peak to another powder white mountain summit, namely the Remarkables Ski Area to the Coronet Peak in Queenstown New Zealand. The event coincides with the school holidays of the local schools, making it a popular event that kids look forward to annually.

The competition includes mountain biking, running, paddling, skiing and snowboarding between the peaks. The organizers have all the gear and equipment you require, therefore you only need to sign up and be present on the day to join in the fun. Competitors can enrol individually, in pairs or in groups of five at a reasonable rate, with guaranteed fun. In case the weather turns sour, there is a reserve day on which the events will be continued or held afresh.

The routes to be taken by each respective event are detailed prior to the contest and can be read and understood by the competitors long before, so that they are in a better position to take home the gold. The cyclists have a daunting challenge whenever new snow falls on the surface and it becomes precarious to manoeuvre around as well, but with the guards and crew members along the path, it is a safe adventure to embark upon. There are two cycling tracks to choose from, one along the mountain range and the other winding up at the Coronet Peak Ski Area.

Kayakers will require grit and brawn to conquer the quest which takes participants from Frankton Beach to Queenstown Bay, a paddle of just over a half a dozen kilometres. The run kicks off at the Frankton Beach and concludes at Coronet. Whichever event you enter for, there will be plenty of competition and good company.

Any Queenstown hotel would usually many competitors during the month of August, making it hard to book a luxury hotel Queenstown unless you make an early booking. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a popular choice amongst travellers to the city and makes an ideal base from which to set off on your excursions.

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+

Dubai Sports World 2013 – A Celebration of Sports

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Popularly known as DSW, the Dubai Sports World is an annual event that attracted over 100,000 participants last year. Every year from 21st June to 21st August, Dubai goes sports crazy and the event is not only for sports fanatics but an event for the entire family; it is fun unleashed!

Taking place in a completely air conditioned indoor arena you do not have to worry about sweating it out in the sweltering heat. Located at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre it is only a short drive from the airport. There is also a metro stop that makes it very easy to reach the venue. Be it football, basketball, volleyball, rugby, tennis, cricket or any other sport that takes your fancy, you can find it here.

Every Friday is for family fun. Face painting, dodge ball, beach paddle, handball and kiddies’ activities like sack races, piggy back races, hula hoop contests, rope jumping contests and even kangaroo ball chase can be found here. Want something more intensive? Sign in for the boot camp.

Thinking about moving your body for something more than sports? Break dancing, hip hop and capoeira are the most watched competitions apart from amateur DJ competition and beat boxing contests. Epic Saturday’s are all about sports and dance together. Non-stop Zumba with over 400 participants is very demanding but if you are up for it then dance away in rhythmic Latin style for two hours. Visitors can also enrol their kids for a coaching programme where they will be coached by some of the best people in the industry. There is an Active Sports Academy and a Football Centre.

The DSW is not all about participating in sports but also staying fit. One can choose to be a part of Wonder Woman, Yoga Sessions, the Sports Training & Performance Gymnasium as well as the Corporate Fitness & Wellness programme.

Accommodation for your entire duration can be arranged at any of the UAE hotels. There are many Middle East hotels operated by world renowned names. Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East comprise of four hotels in Dubai, namely Grand Millennium, Millennium Airport Hotel, Millennium Plaza Hotel and Copthorne Hotel, each offering a truly memorable stay.

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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Champakulam Moolam Boat Race – Exciting snake boat racing

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Champakulam Moolam boat race is the oldest and the most well known snake boat race in the city of Kerala in India. The annual event takes place on the Pamba River that flows through the village of Champakulam which is the starting point of the race.

There is an interesting historical occurrence linked with the race that took place in 1545 A.D which reflects the bond shared between the Hindus and the Christians. At the beginning, a great water carnival was organized and for almost five hundred years this tradition has continued uninterrupted with the boat race, imbibing the strong religious harmony in Kerala in which the village Champakulam is located.

Both tourists and locals throng the village of Champakulam to enjoy the colourfully adorned snake boats races with great enthusiasm and beauty. The boat race is a much enjoyed event in Kerala with excitement and fanfare filling every household. Both locals and foreigners gather at the banks of the Pamba to watch the elaborately decorated snake boats which are more than 100 feet in length. These vessels are a very interesting sight with the front section that reflects a snake that has its hood raised. The racers also go through a rigorous training before the event since it is considered a great prestige to win.

Unlike other boat races all you need to take is good cheer and enthusiasm to watch it since tickets are not required even for tourists. But if you want a good view of all the excitement you need to reach the location ahead of time. The oarsmen chant different rhythms while they row; this gives them the extra boost to complete their task successfully and the crowds gathered cheer gleefully for their respective favourites; even tourists take part in the cheering as the race becomes more competitive.

If you are travelling to the Southern part of India make sure you visit Kerala and stay to catch a glimpse of the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race. Find a Kerala resort that is close to the excitement of the city and close to the sunny beaches. A beach hotel Kerala such as Poovar Island Resort is a great place to stay at and offers an exciting holiday experience.

The Coronation Festival – The Investiture Jubilee

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Six decades ago, a young, enthusiastic and vibrant member of the royal house ascended the throne and continued as the monarch, watching her children and grandchildren grow up and prepare themselves to become rulers of the most celebrated imperial family. This year, the Buckingham Palace, the home of Queen Elizabeth, who celebrates sixty years of being at the helm, will open its doors to the public and convert its grounds to a dais upon which the United Kingdom portrays its originality and uniqueness to the world.

The Coronation Festival 2013 is scheduled to take place from the 11th to the 14th of Julyand will be the epitome of British flair, local artistry, handicrafts and quintessential cuisine. This festival will showcase the advancements in British technology over the last sixty years, the excellent interior and home designing styles of the British, live demonstrations of the British culinary arts, music and dance. Those present will also be able to learn about QEST, the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust, which propagates local crafts with both modern panache and ancient intricacy.

Visitors can purchase day tickets and stroll through the sprawling grounds, observing the exhibits, basking in the beauty of the lush greenery and intimating themselves with the lesser known facts of England and the royal family. However, those who wish to watch some classical music, theatrics and dance performances should choose to procure tickets for, what is known as the ‘Evening Gala’, which is on from 6.00 pm. Local artists Laura Wright, Katherine Jenkins, the national youth orchestra and even international soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa will perform at the Buckingham Palace Gardens promising an unforgettable evening of entertainment for young and old alike.

This absolutely special occasion in the Buckingham Palace has made all the 4 star UK hotels put on their thinking caps and initiate some amazing deals. Be sure to check on the UK hotel specials before you hop on board an aircraft and make your way to the royal house in time for the pomp and pageantry. Opting for majestic abodes such as those offered by Millennium and Copthorne Hotels UK would be an ideal way to celebrate this regal event.

Bangkok International Fashion Fair – In Step with the Latest Trends

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Showcasing some of the latest trends and fashion ware in the region, the Bangkok International Fashion Fair (BIFF) is a must attend event for fashionistas. Those in search of centrally located Bangkok serviced apartments from which to head to the BIFF can stay at Ascott Sathorn Bangkok which makes a great starting point to your adventures. Featuring contemporary comforts and conveniences, these Sathorn apartments are perfect for both business and leisure.

Attracting around 700 local and foreign companies and big names in the fashion industry, the Bangkok International Fashion Fair also has a vast number of booths where one can see everything from the latest trends to items related to manufacturing fashion ware. Home to such specific zones as garments, textiles, fashion accessories, footwear and leather goods, the BIFF is a great place to see the very best of designer clothing from some of the region’s most renowned designers. Also on display are silk and ethnic products which are very much a Thai speciality.

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+

Drinking Fun at the Beijing International Beer Festival

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Lovers of beer and such festivals as Oktoberfest, can enjoy a wholly satisfying drinking experience when visiting the Beijing International Beer Festival. The festival generally takes place at the Xiedao Resort and those in search of centrally located Beijing accommodation from which to begin their visits to such events can consider Ascott Beijing. This luxury apartment in Beijing offers easy access to the retail and business district and is well suited for corporate clientele as well.

The Beijing International Beer Festival takes places during summer and the warm weather of the capital provides the ideal conditions in which to enjoy a cool pint or two. Apart from famous German beers, this annual event also attracts a variety of breweries giving you the unique chance to savour the taste of beers from around the world, each with their own distinctive quality. There is much more to the festival than merely sampling these refreshing beverages however, and amidst the Bavarian-style tents you will come across food stalls, exhibitions and even live entertainment that provide plenty of fun while you swig your favourite beer!

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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