Author Archives: pushpitha

Shinju Matsuri – festival of the pearl

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Shinju Matsuri is perhaps one of the longest running, multi cultural festivals being held for over 40 years in Western Australia. The festival rekindles the early day romantic allure of Broome, a world-renowned producer of South Sea Pearls. The prosperity of these pearls drew Japanese, Chinese, Malay, Koepangers, Filipino and Europeans to Broome; adding to its multi-cultural spirit and energy which is celebrated to-date with the Shinju Matsuri festival.

Those visiting the festival would find it convenient to seek accommodation at a Broome Hotel that is in close proximity to the festival premises such as the Oaks, Broome.

Shinju Matsuri festival with its colourful spectacle of history, culture, music, taste and fragrances opens up exciting 10 days for the locals as well as visitors. Being a festival that recognizes the many different cultures that have enriched Broome’s community over the years; its key elements that represent the different communities, their unique character as well as Broome’s rich history and natural beauty – magically come together within this parade to showcase the harmony and prosperity of a thriving city.

On the first day of the festival which usually falls in September, ‘Sammy’ the dragon is awakened signifying the official opening. Thus follows ten days of camaraderie and celebration until the culmination of the festival at a grand closing ceremony.

The Chinese Float parade – a colourful display of Chinese culture and tradition, Mardi Gras – a carnival inspired event of fun and frolic, are some of the long standing family favourites of the festival. The festival also comprises a kids comedy gala, traditional dance workshops as well as film festivals and quiz nights that reawaken fond memories of a bygone era.

Adults visiting the festival may also enjoy features such as cabaret performances, magic and circus shows while the art aficionado will take pleasure in indulging in an invigorating show of visual arts by the talented artisans of Broome.
Shinju Matsuri is a cocktail of culture and entertainment that enlivens the city and delivers a memorable experience for all that attends.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) – For Any Formal Occasion

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Sri Lanka is a small South Asian island nation located just south of India. Known for its rich history, beautiful coastal features and booming tourism industry, Sri Lanka is fast becoming a hub of development in the region, and a great exhibition and convention centre Sri Lanka is the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall. If you are planning on having any formal occasion in Sri Lanka get in touch with Nkar MICE, an excellent solution for meetings, incentives, conferencing and exhibitions.

The Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) is one of Sri Lanka’s iconic landmarks, and has hosted a number of international and regional events. Located in heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, the BMICH is equipped with facilities and services, making it a suitable forum for any type of occasion, be it a business exhibition, convention, meeting or a panel conference.

Built in 1973 by the People’s Republic of China as a gift to Sri Lanka, the BMICH is named in memory of S.W.R.D Bandaranaike; a former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Since then it has been the host of the Non-Aligned Movement Summit of 1976, the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2013, the World Conference of Youth 2014, and many other multi-lateral and regional forums and conferences. Within the premises one can find many conference halls with modern facilities, many exhibition halls, delegation rooms and many other technical services. With its own catering service, police detachment and VIP services, the BMICH is fully equipped for any high profile or formal meeting, convention or conference. Adjoining the BMICH is the Sirimavo Bandaranike Memorial Exibition Centre, which covers an area of over 4500m2 and is a convenient solution for smaller events. This centre also has many delegation rooms, lounges and technical facilities.

All in all, the BMICH complex is an ideal solution for any meeting, conference or convention to be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Suphanburi Tingkajad Festival – a colourful cultural parade

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A beautiful festival that dates back to at least 100 consecutive years and considered to be a ritual of the Mahayana Buddhism is held in the month of August. If you are planning a holiday at a Bangkok resort, you could consider a stay at Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa that lies in close proximity to the venue of this festival.

When travelling to Bangkok on either business or pleasure during august, you could visit the Suphanburi province and witness this spectacular festival which is bound to be a stress reliever. Many poor people attend this parade for free meals and the other provisions. There are different parts included in this spectacular parade, a few being the Chinese exhibitions, donations offered to the Chinese monks that makes lot of merits.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Drawing on Traditions – Kecak Dance in Uluwatu

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Kecak dance is said to have its origins in trance rituals of Bali. This was combined with music and dance that is an integral part of Balinese life and a dance drama performed by a group of men, based on the epic Ramayana was born. Originally a men only dance, it is performed by about 50 to 150 men with bare upper bodies wearing checked sarongs, sitting in concentric circles swaying in a trance like rhythmic manner who throw up their arms, stand and lie prone in unison, chanting ‘chak a chak a chak’ to the accompaniment of the gamelan suara as they depict various scenes from the Ramayana. The voice of the narrator rise high above the chanting explaining the unfolding drama. Many dance troops now incorporate female dancers for the lead roles and have the central figures of the drama decked out in gorgeous costumes and body paint. The lead actor dances in the middle of the ring of dancers acting out various incidents of the epic while the dancer’s movements make interesting patterns even coiling and uncoiling like a giant snake. The chant sets the dance apart as well as giving it its name. Starwood hotels and resorts in Indonesia are found in several major cities and holiday destinations throughout the country making in easy to travel to Indonesia.

The Kecak dance was specially developed for western audiences with the assistance of Wayan Limbak a popular Indonesian traditional dance exponent whose advice was sought to popularize the dance and to preserve the essential cultural elements that make it special. The dance always starts in the reddish glow of a tropical sunset and extends into the night lit only by torches that enhance its dramatic quality, giving it a primeval air. Pura Luhul Uluwatu perched high up on a crag by the ocean is where visitors can catch this dramatic dance performance every day at 6 pm, in one of the most dramatic settings.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Celebrate Ancestor’s Day in Cambodia’s Sacred Pchum Ben Festival

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Travellers in search of five-star Siem Reap accommodation will be more than pleased with the Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa. Providing guests with a central location this idyllic rest offers modern amenities to suit business travellers as well as holidaymakers.

Renowned as one of Cambodia’s most sacred religious festivals the marking of Pchum Ben or Ancestor’s Day holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Khmer residents the world over. This annual religious ceremony in Cambodia falls on the 15th day of the 10th month in the Khmer calendar with dates in the Georgian calendar alternating between the months of September and October. The 2013 Pchum Ben festival for example was marked from the 3rd to the 5th of October while the dates of this year’s festival falls between 21st and 23rd September.

The national holiday which pays tribute to one’s ancestors also denoted the end of the Buddhist lent period known as Vassa. As an ancient festival that is deeply rooted in Cambodian culture Ancestor’s Day is a day set aside to pays homage to deceased loved ones going back nearly seven generations. Tributes are made in the form of religious sutra chants by Buddhist monks that take place over night. Cambodians believe that it is during this sacred day when the gates of the underworld or hell are opened and is linked with the world of the living. As a belief that is deeply rooted in the cosmic power of King Yama or the monarch of hell the sprits and ghosts of deceased relatives are said to be especially active during this hallowed day when blessing are bestowed upon them in the form of offering food to Buddhist monks and Pail sutra chanting ceremonies conducted at temples. Believed to aid them ascend their temporary abode in hell or alleviate their suffering in some measure the merits committed by living relatives are said to benefit the welfare of relatives in both heaven and hell during Pchum Ben
Visiting the temple with food offerings is a traditional practice and custom of Pchum Ben which literally translates to “meeting and collecting”. The deceased ancestors are believed to bless the living relatives with happiness and good fortune after receiving merit due to the pious activities carried out by their loved ones on this day.

 

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Heralding the New Year – Songkran Festival

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Although Songkran, celebrated in Thailand from 13 to 15th April each year is known as a water festival where spraying water on everyone seems to be the primary activity, it in fact heralds the Thai New Year. Coming at one of the hottest months, many people make this an excuse to get soaked and to have weeklong celebrations. Occupying a prized location, Citadenes Sukhumvit 16 Bangkok offers convenient access to important business and commercial locations and fun city activities.

Businesses and offices shut down and half the population of Bangkok leaves for their home towns for long awaited family reunions. Water splashing, besides being a fun activity, is a symbol of washing away the misfortunes of the previous year, beginning the New Year afresh. This is similar to cleaning out houses that is also part of the festival. Originally a small symbolic bowl of water was poured over relatives and friends but now buckets, garden hoses and water guns have entered the picture. The first day of Songkran is also National Elders Day. Young people sprinkle perfumed water on the palms of their elders and ask for their blessings. The second day of Songkran is National Family Day. Many families start the day by giving alms to Buddhist monks. Other Songkran rituals include bathing Buddha images in perfumed water at home and in temples and carrying out merit making activities according to Buddhist beliefs. In Sanam Luang a Buddha image is taken in procession through the streets for devotees to sprinkle water on it.

The wildest Songkran celebration takes place in Bangkok on a 5km stretch of street near Patpong. It is packed deep with Thais and tourists in holiday mood wielding water spraying gadgetry. Fire trucks stationed at intersections ambush the revelers with their powerful water hoses providing a respite from the scorching heat. Elephants too are used as water sprayers. Some Thai communities celebrate Songkran a week later than the rest of the country also with water splashing but tempered with cultural activities. Beauty pageants, food fairs and sand sculptures honouring the Buddha are also part of the Songkran festivities. As a highly rated Bangkok apartment hotel, Sukhumvit 16 offers comforts and conveniences to suit the needs of its diverse clientele.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Kecak Fire & Trance Dance – Loose yourself in Bali’s most captivating Dance Performance

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The many intriguing cultures of the very traditional city of Bali extend into the world of the performing arts. Dance makes a very important part of the Balinese lifestyle and is etched with a spiritual aura. There are several occasions where one can enjoy such Balinese performances. In fact, most of these dances make an important part of the religious functions in Bali but since Bali is extremely popular with the tourists, Balinese Dance can be enjoyed as a separate performance itself.

One of the most popular Balinese Dance performances is the Kecak Fire and Trance dance. There is something thoroughly captivating about this dance ritual that makes it a must see for those visiting Bali. The best part about this dance is that it has made its way into almost every 5 star Ubud accommodation there is. An excellent hotel to enjoy the authentic Kecak dance is at the Alila Villas Bali. Offered as a part of the fun and fiery ‘Flames’ dinner, the dance perfectly complements the ambience of the evening.

The Kecak dance is actually a depiction of the Sanghyang exorcism ritual from the stories of the epic Hindu deity, Ramayana. The dance consists of a chorus of around 100 or more men clad only in a loin cloth. Forming rows of circles, they move their bodies together, left and right all the while rhythmically chanting the words cak ke-cak ke-cak ke-cak. Gradually the rhythm picks up speed and one by one they raise their trembling hands to the air. The dancers actually imitate the Ramanayas troops of apes. The Temple at Taman Ka ja, The Batuba Village, the Ubud Village and the Ubud Temple are all other excellent locations to enjoy an authentic dose of the most popular Balinese dance there is. The Kecak Fire and Trans Dance is the one thing that completes your holiday in Bali.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Ramadan in Dubai, a Venerated Occasion

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The month of Ramadan is significant for Muslims around the world, and it is celebrated with fervour in the United Arab Emirates. In Dubai, perhaps the most open and cosmopolitan of the Emirates, Ramadan is one of the most important times of the year, and a special occasion for the Muslim faithful. Well-informed travellers intending to visit the Emirate during this time and who desire a comfortable Palm Jumeirah hotel will find an appealing choice in Dubai the Palm Resort & Spa. This attractive resort offers excellent accommodations and attentive hospitality.

According to Islamic tradition Ramadan is considered to be one component of the five central pillars of the religion. At this time of the year Muslims are encouraged to focus on their spiritual life and display great generosity towards the less fortunate. During this special month of the year, healthy Muslims are required to fast from sunrise to sunset, and to also refrain from drinking liquids, smoking and engaging in sexual activity during this period. However pregnant women, young children, the sick and the elderly are exempted from these requirements.

In Dubai many festive events are organized during this month, and the commercial sector experiences an upturn in business. Emirati traditions and hospitality are very much in evidence at this time of the year. Particularly the evening meal of ifthar, when the faithful break their fast, is considered to be a social occasion; throughout the city ifthars are organized where people of diverse nationalities join together in the spirit of the festival.

A number of educational and cultural events are also organized at the time of Ramadan. These are intended to educate the public regarding the significance and importance of this special time of the year. People are instructed on how to behave and conduct themselves during Ramadan. Contests are held where competitors engage in the recital of the Holy Koran, in which the most skilled in recital receive cash awards.

In the city the night market stays open until the early hours of the morning, offering a multitude of dining and shopping options. Not to be missed is the Majlis where visitors can enjoy an array of excellent Arabian foods every night of this month.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

National Day (Hari Merdeka-Independence Day): A Celebration of Malaysian Spirit

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With the conclusion of the Thirty Years War in 1648, the European powers came together to sign the Treaty of Westphalia that established political boundaries in Europe. With the establishment of such boundaries, many countries, especially the Portuguese, the Dutch, the French and the English, sought to extend their land and assert power over other entities as well. With the great era of exploration in the period that followed the Thirty Years War, troops from various European countries landed in modern day Asia, Africa and Australia in search of bountiful land that could be annexed to their own. The centuries that followed saw the colonial powers propagating their social and legal systems to their respective colonies and laying the groundwork for a truly global world today. The twentieth century saw many such colonies gaining formal and legal independence from their colonial rulers and these nations now enjoy a ‘National Day’ to commemorate gaining formal independence. National Day celebrations are always immensely interesting for foreigners and for those staying in Beach Resorts in Langkawi during their in Malaysia. Choosing to take part in Hari Merdeka, the Independence Day of Malaysia, is a worthwhile experience.

Malaysia received formal independence as the Federation of Malaya in 1957 after being colonised by the British for several decades. The celebration takes place on the 31st of August each year. The original celebration in 1957 was graced by the presence of the King and Queen of Thailand, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, The Crown Prince and Princess of Japan and other Heads of Government from South Africa, India, Burma and the United States of America. The annual celebrations include a parade at Merdeka Square, Malacca Town, Kuching, George Town and Putrajaya which can be witnessed by tourists residing in hotels such as The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa.

The proceedings of the parade commence at eight in the morning, with the Arrival of the Sovereigns. This is followed by the Royal Inspection, the National Anthem and the raising of the national flag. To commemorate the true Malaysian spirit, a number of cultural performances are also included and therefore, is a wonderful event to visit in Malaysia for a tourist.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Uncover London’s Signature Sporting Event at the Iconic Wimbledon Championships

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Tipped to be the most coveted sporting events in the British calendar the grass lawn Grand Slam that is Wimbledon is no ordinary summer tennis tournament in merry old England. Holding the distinct honour of being the oldest tennis competition in the globe the Wimbledon Championships as it’s officially known is also the most prestigious tennis event of the calendar year. Often compared to the Olympics due to its rich history and grand traditions, winning a trophy at this iconic event is the dream of many a tennis player regardless of nationality and age. As the only major Grand Slam that is played on grass courts Wimbledon differs from the three other majors in the tennis year, the Australian Open, US Open and the clay court Roland Garros tournament also known as the French Open.

The 2014 installment of this renowned championship will be the 137th in the event’s history as the first tournament was organized by the All England Club which still hosts the competition, as far back as 1877. Conducted in the grass courts of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club the contest includes men’s, women’s and doubles contests, taking place across two weeks during the latter half June and the first weeks of July. As the only tournament in which the game is played on the original surface of what was then known as “lawn tennis” Wimbledon is considered the most challenging of the four Grand Slams.

Complete with a strict dress code for players, tennis games at Wimbledon are also synonymous with royal patronage and attendance as well as the consumption of strawberries and cream by on-looking fans.

The reigning champion this year is none other than Britain’s own Andy Murray who claimed the title for its native country after a drought of decades in which the championship was won by tennis greats from other nationalities including U.S’s Pete Sampras and Switzerland’s Roger Federer who both secured the men’s singles title a record seven times.

Boasting the largest prize money for a tennis tournament the Wimbledon championships dispended a whopping total of £22,560,000 in 2013. The 2014 contest is due to kick off on the 23rd of June,2014 and the tournament will conclude on the 6th of July crowning new men’s, women’s and doubles champions.

Travellers on the lookout for luxury 4 star UK hotels should look no further than the elegant rests of the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels UK group. Offering guests a variety of UK hotel specials for business and leisure travel this reputed name in the hospitality industry pulls out all the stops when it comes to unforgettable holidays in England.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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