Author Archives: maggie

Miss World 2013: A Night of Glamour, Splendour and Excellence

Posted on by

The annual Miss World Pageant takes centre stage this September with pomp and splendour as contestants from eighty one nations are expected to flock to Indonesia where one of them will be crowned “Miss World 2013”. While the history of the competition can be traced back to 1951 where the first pageant was conducted as part of the Festival of Berlin, now, over half a century later, the pageant still continues to attract contestants from all parts of the world. As a result, the 2013 edition will witness delegates from states such as Brunei, Guinea, Uzbekistan and even Kosovo.

It is also the first time Indonesia will host the pageant and it is also the first time a Southeast Asian nation has been selected to do so. Marking another unprecedented development in pageant history, the 2013 edition will exclude the bikini event and replace it with a separate non-bikini event in an attempt to soothe the cries of outrage from conservative religious groups in Indonesia. The cultural landscape of the country as well as the diverse representation of states that are expected to feature in this years’ pageant ties in well with Indonesia’s national motto ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ which means ‘Unity in Diversity’.

The pageant will take place at the Sentul International Convention Centre on the 28th of September and before the night is over, one of the eighty one contestants will be crowned this year’s Miss World! The Centre’s seating capacity being well above ten thousand, the Miss World pageant is gearing up to be a spectacular event already.

For those who wish to witness this grand competition in all its glory, making early reservations at a boutique hotel Bali is imperative as accommodation is in high demand during the time of the competition. Enjoy the diverse landscape of Indonesia while enjoying the pageant and opt to stay in a Bali luxury hotel that is capable of catering to your every need, such as the L Hotel Seminyak whose charming interior and superb service will only seek to add to your tropical vacation.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

China Industrial Control Automation & Instruments Fair 2013 – Get to know the latest developments in the field of automobile

Posted on by

China Industrial Control Automation & Instruments Fair 2013 is one of the most interesting technological shows that one should not miss if you are in China during this time. Travellers residing at well-situated serviced apartments Tianjin would get the perfect opportunity to take part in this great event which will be held between 21 – 24 August 2013. Somerset International Building Tianjin is one of the perfect Tianjin accommodation options available, especially for the international business travellers to the city. Business personalities visiting this great fair would get the opportunity to witness all the latest products for automobile, aerospace and shipbuilding industry. This year’s exhibition and fair will take place at the Binhai International Convention & Exhibition Centre and the organizer of the fair are expecting the participation of thousands of local and international automobile enthusiasts from all around the world.

During the Kite Festival –True Balinese Fun

Posted on by

As the bright blue sky fills up with a myriad of colors and shapes, a sense of joy dawns upon the entire village. Young, old, rich poor step out to their porches to witness this beauty.

Cheers of competitors echo through the streets and the sense of thrill and happiness in this event is infectious. There is only one event that brings out such a lot of spirit; it is none other than the Bali Kite Festival. Every year Sanur Beach booms with life as the Kite competition takes place and every year the vigor is the same; the fun is the same and every year tourists are drawn to this little beach to bask in the spirited ambience of this festival.

The kites you will find in this festival are certainly something to awe. Some of them are so enormous that they actually block out chunks of the sky. Many a times you may wonder how they actually stay up in the sky. As the kites of many shapes and colors soar up in the sky, traditional music is played in the background. As with most other occasions in Bali, kite flying also has a religious significance to it. The tradition actually began as a means to pass messages to the Gods and even today you find some traditional Kites. The ones that are shaped as birds and fish are actually those that depict Hindu deities. At every point of the festivals prayers are chanted for luck in this game and luck throughout the year.

The Bali Kite Festival is one occasion that is actually a whole load of fun. The atmosphere is full of good cheer, free flowing beer and cheap food. It is one place to get a glimpse of traditional Bali that is exhibited by the many traditional costumes, tales and rituals.
After all that fun you are sure to experience at the kite festival, come home to the Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. The luxury you experience at Anantara is always un matched. From all the Uluwatu Hotels, it is always the first choice. The comfort and services you get here makes it also the best of all the Bali Resorts.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

Dubai Summer Surprises 2013 – for the family and the shopaholic alike

Posted on by

Dubai Summer Surprises also known as DSS was commenced in 1998, in order to promote Dubai as a summer attraction for tourists from world over. Over the years it has gained much in popularity and today, it is one of the biggest highlights in the summer calendar in Dubai. Since it is an annual fest, not only foreigners but also locals eagerly look forward to this occasion and wait to get great bargains at more than 6,000 shops and other establishments during this time.

For the last fourteen years it has become well known around the world as a boundless shopping festival that attracts many shopaholics and families for a superb break during summer. It is regarded to be the biggest fiesta that is held in this part of the globe and it is said that more than 2.2 million people have attended this occasion. If you are wondering where it takes place, there is no better way to explain it rather than say that the festival takes place in the whole of Dubai.

It is not only an event for the shopaholic to look forward to strike great bargains; there is much to look forward to for children and families as well. The occasion has a children’s area called Modesh World and also a mascot by the name Modhesh and there are many events geared for kids to have a fun filed time during this period. There are separate areas for toddlers, young children and older kids and these diverse play areas offer numerous play activities and even a cinema for children. For a family with young ones this is sure to be a fun filled and an amazing holiday.

In addition to the Modesh World for kids, there are a number of other attractions for the grown-ups ranging from entertainment shows, concerts, countless shopping promotions and even the chance to win many prizes and surprises when one shops at various establishments.

The UAE hotels and the Middle East hotels, such as Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East are usually bustling with guests during this season and it is advisable to book your accommodation early if you plan to attend this festival.

 

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

Google+

Phuket Fantasea Show – Flamboyant Cultural Theme Park

Posted on by

Phuket is an island with many colourful cultural attractions. An ideally located Phuket resort will let you explore all the top tourist attractions in the island and experience every exciting cultural event. Millennium Resort Patong Phuket is one of the top Patong resorts that would offer you a perfect relaxing holiday experience. One of the must visit sites when holidaying in Phuket is Fantasea Show which displays a rich cultural heritage of the country. With the incorporation of the advanced technology and effects, Phuket Fantasea Show boasts many a vibrant shows and segments including Fantasy of a Kingdom Culture Illusion Show, Palace of the Elephant and Carnival Village. This exciting theme park promises to bring joy to the whole family regardless the age and preferences and you could also enjoy other facilities such as Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant and Suriyamas Seafood Buffet Restaurant when you visit the place.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry. Google+

Thai Cultural Shows – Glimpse of a rich cultural heritage!

Posted on by

Thailand never fails to surprise its visitors with these most vibrant Thai cultural shows which would also give a chance to the holiday-makers in the country to get a glimpse of this rich cultural heritage. Some of the Thai cultural shows that a traveller should not miss out are Siam Niramit, Thai Classical Dance Drama, Thai Mask Dance, Thai Village Shows, ancient sword fights and Thai Puppet Shows.

Siam Niramit is a traditional Thai performance presented with the participation of more than 150 traditional performers on a huge stage along with many sound and lighting effects. There are 500 numerous colourful costumes being used during these shows. Siam Niramit is a magnificent opportunity for anyone who is visiting this great enchanted kingdom to get a glimpse of its world-class cultural performance. This breathtaking performance has now even managed to sail into the lists in the Guinness World Records!

Thai Puppetry is another must experienced cultural performance when you are visiting Bangkok. It has been a part of Thai cultural heritage for many long years. “Hung Luang” is the name of the very first puppet performance and it is also widely known as Royal Puppetry. Puppet shows in Thailand were originally performed as a Royal show during functions of the King of Ayutthaya. Thai puppetry evolved throughout many years and there are various other categories such as stick puppets, small puppets and so on. Aksra theatre is one of the popular places where you can head down to enjoy an exquisite puppet show.

One of the finest cultural shows one can experience in Thailand is Thai Mask Dance Drama. In these traditional dance acts, performers need to wear masks and each of these mask represents a specific character in the story. These cultural shows are regarded as both dance and drama, as none of the actors speak but give away their message through dance movements, expressions and mime. These mask dances are colourful and vibrant performances and a visit to one of these shows will give an unforgettable experience.

To experience most of these cultural aspects of this great nation, travellers need to find their comfortable Bangkok resort within the vicinity of the city’s popular entertainment venues. Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa is popularly known as one of the finest 5 star hotels in Bangkok that is centrally located amidst many attractive shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

Google+

The Coca-Cola Easter Show – Bringing Easter to Life in Auckland

Posted on by

The Coca Cola Easter show is a fun and entertaining event that takes place every year at the time of Easter. It is the largest and most awaited event in the whole of Auckland that consists of an array of fun activities which includes a circus and plenty of entertainment rides. The purpose and objective of the Easter show is to bring together both the town and the country sides of Auckland in a one big event of union that showcases the best of both worlds in the spirit of the Easter festivities.

The Coca Cola Easter show had its beginning way back in the year 1843. Its very historic nature gives it a lot of importance every year. Originally the event had a more agricultural and business oriented purpose but this changed with time and in was only in 1910 when it was first hosted as a show case in a whole new location that is now known as the ABS show grounds. Ever since then the show has been growing year after year; every year better than the year before.

This year the Coca Cola Easter show is prepping up to be bigger than ever and better than ever. A whole new set of acts and attractions are lined up with an aim of giving you the best show ever. The Hollywood horrors is the just the perfect dose of spook you will need to vitalize the spirit of Easter. This year 13 ultra spooky scenes from famous Horror movies are showcased to add a haunting thrill to the event, so you better gear those lungs for some loud and shrilling screaming! A couple of Bands are also lined up for performances and so are the Zirca Circus and the Canadian Bush Whackers show. All in all you are sure to have an amazing time this year in the Coca Cola Easter Festival.

For an experience of a spectacular Auckland city hotel, stay at the Copthorne Hotel Auckland City. This is one central Auckland hotel that is perfectly seated in the heart of the city, giving you an excellent access to all the highlights of Auckland city.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

Google+

Moving to the Beat – Banlieues Bleues

Posted on by

Every year in early spring, for the past 30 years Parisians have enjoyed a jazz festival that showcases all genres of the medium interpreted by artists from around the world. Known as the Banlieues Bleues, it takes place over about two weeks in multiple locations around the north eastern suburbs of Paris, Seine St Denis. The festival appears to have had a definite impact on the regeneration of the area which was a quiet residential area.

The festival brings together traditional and new styles of jazz from Afro Cuban to New Orleans to acid, blues, gypsy music and experimental jazz performed by both new and established artistes. In fact the festival is all about introducing all sorts of beats, blends and sounds and introducing new exponents of the genre who are encouraged to distribute their music at the festival. Not only is it an opportunity for festival goers to be introduced to new music and new interpretations of jazz standards, it is a platform for performers to present new compositions and for new performers to showcase their skills. Some performers in addition to displaying their musical virtuosity dress up their concerts with the use of costumes and dance. The festival noted for the high quality of its music is packed with superb musicians and provides a rare treat for jazz lovers. Jazz fans can attend individual performances of their choice or get a festival pass to see any three performances and get reduced rates for any other performance they may wish to attend. The staging of performances in multiple locations around the city allows festival goers to discover new cultural venues.

The Banlieues Bleues festival was created by a cultural association who bears the same name as the festival and received institutional and public support to make it happen. They are dedicated to the creation and dissemination of information on modern musical forms not only in regional neighbourhoods but at a national level and raising public awareness of the various types of jazz music.

Experience the quintessential Raffles service at Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris, a place which offers all modern conveniences and luxury in its selection of elegant, contemporary accommodation and facilities and amenities that make staying here a real pleasure. As one of prominent 5 Star Hotel Paris, guests enjoy an exceptional location, stylish public spaces, divine dining destinations and an amazing spa and leisure facilities that are really worth trying out. Take advantage of the offers at this luxury hotel Paris to discover a luxury hotel with a difference.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

Google+

Dubai Festival City: Uncover Dubai’s Premier Retail and Recreational Space

Posted on by

As a larger than life development project that encapsulates a state-of-the-art mall and recreational facilities in the heart of Dubai Creek this visionary retail and entertainment space is the envy of the world in terms of sheer size and scope.

Ideally situated on the Dubai Creek near the historic heartland of Deira lies what is now known as Dubai’s premier leisure space for the masses. Sprawled across a whopping 5.2 million square feet this monolithic edifice devoted to the country’s favourite past times of shopping, dining and entertainment is fast gaining attraction as one of its most popular tourist hubs. Appropriately dubbed the Dubai Festival City this 3km long recreational space is in fact a city within a city with breathtaking golf course, glimmering mallscape and luxurious dining options to boot. Conveniently located near the Dubai International Airport the venue is also one of the most accessible attractions in Dubai with a visionary design that looks to the future in every sense of the word.

Offering shopaholics a wide range of global brands the Dubai Festival City encompasses more than 600 stores with an impressive 25 flagship outlets of the world’s leading brands. Highlights for fashionistas include Esprit, Marks & Spencer, Nike, Adidas, Nine West, Paris Hilton and Billabong boutiques while the Mont Blanc, Diesel Accessories, Guess Accessories and Just Accessories outlets are also popular among frequent shoppers. Ladies can indulge in their footwear fetish at Chic Shoes, Nocoli and Forever 21 where the latest trends off the runways of Europe are available under one space for convenience. Home to its very own Ferrari flagship dealer the venue also houses large IKEA, Toys ‘R’ Us, Plug Ins, Ace Hardware, Paris Gallery, Magrudy’s and Samsonite showrooms as well.

Movie fanatics can catch the latest thrillers at the locale’s Grand Cinema Complex which boast 12 screens. Bowling fans can also try their hand at the sport at Bowling City while those who wish to discover the Festival City’s most scenic corners can head down to the Canal Walk where one can dine alfresco while enjoying a waterside location. The terraced pathways of the Canal are also breathtaking as the entire space also encompasses a large number of abras. The 250m long Festival Marina, the venue’s signature yachting centre is also found here in addition to a number of elegant restaurants.

Littered with almost a hundred bistros, cost cafes and plush restaurants including the country’s signature Hard Rock Cafe, Dubai Festival City is a foodie’s dream come true. Tipped to have the largest collection of waterside restaurants in all of the Middle East the locale’s true star is the Marina Restaurant Pavilion with its idyllic eateries and riviera-like placement.

Travellers in search of a Dubai airport hotel should look no further than the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. Renowned as a 5 star hotel Dubai counts among its best accommodation providers this luxurious rest offer plush living quarters for holidaymakers and those on business.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.

Google+

Thai New Year Festival- Celebrate Songkran

Posted on by

Although most of the world heralds in the dawning of a New Year on the 1st of January the citizens of Thailand wait till the hot summer days of April to hark in their traditional New Year in grand fashion. Dubbed the Songkran Festival the Thai New Year is a red letter event marked across the country from the 13th to the 15th of April every year. Although the dates for the festival were declared by the yearly consultation of a solar calendar the aforementioned dates have been selected to celebrate the festival in recent times. As a national holiday most Thais head to their hometowns to hark in the New Year with loved ones as family values play a vital role in the festivities which has a deep rooted legacy in Thai culture that dates back centuries.

images (4)

The first day of the festival coincides with the Rod Nam Dum Hua custom when Thais pay tribute to their elders on National Elders Day. During the first day various cultural practices are observed such as younger members of the family pouring aromatic water on to the palms of their grandparents or elders in a ritual that displays humility while asking for the blessings of the older members of the family. The second day of the festival is known as National Family Day and is devoted to meritorious activities one performs with members of the family and close relatives. Thais flock to Buddhist temples early in the morning to offer alms to priests and bathe the Buddha statue of the temple with incensed water as well as at the Buddha image home. Meritorious activities hit an all time high during this holiday as a visit to the nine holy temples of the country is considered a must by devout Buddhists. The religious edifices in Rattanokosin such as Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaeo, Wat Benchamabophit see an influx of visitors both local and foreign origin during Songkran.
Splashing passers- by and loved ones with water on the streets of Bangkok is another familiar Songkran ritual as the act of throwing water is believed to cleanse one of the misfortunes of the year past and hark in the New Year with a refreshing start. Today this custom has evolved in to a popular New Year activity as Thais with water guns and pales of water occupy certain areas of the city where a big splash party takes place almost simultaneously every year.

Bangkok_April_Holiday_Songkran

Travellers in search of Sukhumvit serviced apartments should look no further than Citadines Sukhumvit 11Bangkok for all their accommodation needs. Providing guests with the best in contemporary amenities these Bangkok serviced apartments offer luxury and comfort in the heart of the Thai capital.

Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
Google+