Singapore is a multicultural city where “East meets West” in a splendid fashion. It has many areas divided by the ethnicity of the people such as Chinatown and Little India and the country has four official languages. Therefore, you will always come across many festivals and celebrations of all kinds. Buddhist Festivals The main Buddhist holiday that is celebrated is Vesak Day in May and it marks the enlightenment and death of the Buddha. On this day you will find many devotees visiting the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple to light many lamps and lanterns and offer fresh fragrant flowers. You will best be able to witness this beautiful site by staying at an accommodation such as Hotel 81 Cosy, which is one of the most affordable …

Religious festivals play a major role in the culture of the Maldives and since it is a fully Muslim nation, these events are not surprisingly, linked to Islam. From vibrant celebrations to reflective observances here are some of the main festivals held annually. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday In commemoration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, the Maldives joins the Islamic world in celebrating Mawlid un-Nabi on the third month of the Islamic calendar (Rabi al-Awwal). Mosques resounding with prayers, street processions, recitation of Sufi poems and communities coming together in harmonious festivities create an atmosphere of unity and reverence. Ramadan Experience the serene aura that blankets the Maldives during the holy month of Ramadan. A key aspect of this period is …

Thailand, a land of rich traditions and vibrant culture, hosts a plethora of festivals throughout the year, each offering a unique blend of spirituality, colour, and joy. Dive into the heart of Thai celebrations with these unmissable festivals that showcase the country’s cultural diversity: Loy Krathong | img via flickr 1. Songkran: Thai New Year Water Festival When: April 13-15 Where: Nationwide Highlights: Experience the world’s largest water fight as Thais and visitors alike come together to celebrate the traditional Thai New Year. Water splashing symbolizes purification and cleansing for the year ahead. You can witness this from anywhere including serviced apartments Bangkok such as Chatrium Residence Riverside Bangkok. 2. Loy Krathong: Festival of Lights When: November (date varies) Where: Nationwide, with grand celebrations in Chiang Mai …

Vietnam, with its rich tapestry of traditions, boasts a myriad of festivals that offer a glimpse into the country’s vibrant culture and heritage. Here are some must-experience festivals that will immerse you in the lively spirit of Vietnam. 1. Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): Celebrated in late January or early February, Tet is the most significant and widely celebrated festival in Vietnam. Experience colourful parades, traditional performances, and the iconic Dragon and Lion Dances. Don’t miss the festive atmosphere and traditional dishes associated with Tet. 2. Huong Pagoda Festival: Taking place in the Perfume Pagoda, near Hanoi, this festival spans from January to March. Join pilgrims on a boat journey to the pagoda, nestled amid picturesque limestone mountains. The festival is a blend of …

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Botswana by partaking in its lively events and festivals that celebrate traditions, arts, and the spirit of the nation. From colourful cultural gatherings to wildlife-centric celebrations, here are some highlights to add to your Botswana itinerary: Maun International Arts Festival: Held annually in Maun, this festival is a vibrant celebration of arts and culture. From traditional dance and music performances to contemporary art exhibitions, the Maun International Arts Festival showcases the diversity of Botswana’s artistic talent. Engage with local artists, attend workshops, and experience the dynamic cultural scene in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Kalahari Desert Festival: Venture into the heart of the Kalahari Desert for a unique cultural experience at the Kalahari Desert Festival. This event …

In the vibrant tapestry of Thai festivals, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival stands out as a celebration of spiritual cleansing, cultural traditions, and a culinary exploration of plant-based delights. Delve into the vibrant spectacle that is the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Origins and Significance: A Tapestry of Spiritual Practices The roots of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival trace back to the early 19th century when a Chinese opera troupe fell ill while performing in the region. To appease the gods, locals adopted a vegetarian diet and engaged in rituals. Today, the festival is a blend of Taoist practices, vibrant processions, and vegetarian feasts. The Nine Emperor Gods: Guardians of Purity Central to the festival is the veneration of the Nine Emperor Gods, revered in Taoism. Devotees believe that …

One of the most magnificent events in the Sri Lankan Buddhist culture is the Esala Perahera held in the scenic hill country. Commencing in August from the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, this graceful parade circles around the city with several squads of dancers and performers. Here are some things you should know before you plan to witness this event. Where and When? You will have to travel to Kandy and find accommodation first, as this event takes place at night. Esala Perahera this year will take place from 14th to 24th August for a duration of 10 days. The parade will march through most streets close to the temple and will last for a few hours. It’s best to find accommodation in the heart …

This coastal city in Bình Định province, Vietnam was once flourishing in agriculture and fishing as their primary commercial activities. Quy Nhon has now become a widely popular tourist destination that attracts travellers from all corners of the world. While you may be planning a vacation to Quy Nhon, be sure to note if your trip coincides with any of the below festivals in the city. Kick Up a Session of Martial Arts The Vietnamese traditional martial arts are honoured once every two years on a platform created especially to discuss all things martial arts, delegation meetings, exchanges and promoting this art on a global scale. Participants of this event will be able to reside at a Quy Nhon hotel. The Bình Định traditional martial arts …

The long-standing independent archipelago, the Maldives is among the top tropical destinations in the Maldives. The country was not always a tourist destination; in fact, it was predicted that the country would never be a tourist destination, owing to its location. However, the country is now one of the most visited destinations. Just like the tourism industry, the country’s independence was hard-fought. Colonial occupation Like many other South Asian nations, the Maldives too was colonized by the Dutch, the British, and the Portuguese. The Maldives was captured by the Portuguese in the year 1558; they ruled the country for the next 15 years. And in 1573, Muhammad Thakurufaanu freed the country and became the sultan of the country. The Sultanate He served the country for …

Consisting of various ethnic communities, Singapore is a true cultural melting pot; due to this, there are various festivals held in the city that are well worth experiencing. Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is celebrated by Chinese communities across the world and Singapore is no different. Usually, in January or February, this event sees areas like Chinatown come alive with festivities. Easy to reach from a hotel in Farrer Park, this locale is where one can streets lit up as well as dragon and lion dances. Thai Pongal A festival observed by Hindu devotees generally in January, Thai Pongal is popular in Southern India. Singapore has a strong Indian community too in the area known as Little India near Park Hotel Farrer Park; here, one can …