The mere mention of Hong Kong, one of China’s special administrative districts, brings to mind images of a grand city, its skyline dotted with skyscrapers whose lights illuminate the night sky. Hong Kong’s importance as business centre in Asia stemming from the rapid economic development it witnessed in the past fifty years has also ensured its status as a major global financial centre. Hence, life in this city is fast paced and quick and often, those travelling to the city do not have the opportunity to experience the city. Hence, especially for those visiting the city on business, the Hong Kong Flower Show would prove to be a welcome change of pace. Conducted from the 15th to the 24th of March this year, the Flower …

With the Dubai Summer Surprises running in its 15th year, Dubai has been able to seal their place in the International Summer fun agenda. Begun in 1998 in a bid to encourage friendly relations and added tourism revenue, the Dubai Summer Surprises is the summer extension of the Dubai Shopping Festival. During this Summer Surprise which runs for around 10 weeks each year, usually between the months of June and August, each week is dedicated to a different ‘surprise’ or theme. These ‘surprises’ are varied and are decided by the government departments involved in the event. Some of these are the color surprise, art surprise, adventure surprise, heritage surprise, sweet surprise and the continuous finale – back to school surprise. Whilst adults have shopping and …

Tipped to be one of the most colourful and engaging local festivals in Thailand, Songkran is an annual event of truly monumental cultural significance. Three months after the rest of the world celebrated the dawn of a new year, this vibrant festival harking in the new year in the month of April is one of the best reasons to head down to Bangkok this holiday season. Also known as the Thai Water Festival, the Songkran festival of 2013 is due to take place from the 13th to the 15th of April with the days declared a public holidays all across the great nation. Formerly calculated according to the Thai lunar calendar, the event is now marked according to the Georgian calendar and typically falls between …

Wreathed in festivities, colour and joy, the Songkran Festival celebrates the dawning of a new year in great ardour. Originally calculated according to the astrological charts, the dates have now been fixed between tyhe 13th and 15th of April. Visiting Thailand during this time of the year can be a unique experience and one of convenient Bangkok serviced apartments available within the area would be the ideal accommodation choice. Citadines Sukhumvit 11 Bangkok is a one of the best Sukhumvit serviced apartments available within the area conveniently located in the middle of all the hustle and bustle so that the visitors would not miss out on any of the fun. However, be prepared to be douched by buckets of water if one intends to roam the streets during this …

Though Maldives depends on its neighbours for most basic necessities such as food and drinking water, the nation of many islands has an abundance of scenic venues, transcending beaches and bountiful natural formations. In spite of its tiny dimensions, the many atolls are full of activity, customs and culture. To witness the splendour of the chain of islands, a fair amount of jet sitting or boat riding is required as there are no bridges between them. Being a predominantly Islamic nation, the various religious rituals and celebrations pertaining to Islam are practiced widely throughout the country. The father of the religion, Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is a day of celebration, happiness and much festivities in the country. As per the religious calendar, the much awaited day …

History reveals that Al Gharbia has not been only a beautiful coast, but also a protective frontier that safeguarded the nation in the early parts of the 19th century. Al Gharbia, in Abu Dhabi has always been famous throughout the world for the golden sandy beaches that spread for miles. Over the years the village men have capitalized on the natural blessings and commenced promoting numerous sports and fun activities along the coastal line. Hence, today the area stands as a bustling hub for both local and foreign tourists. One of the favourite events at the Water Sports Festivals is Kite surfing, which is a spectacular sport that requires relatively high skills to harness the wind power. Al Gharbia winds are ideal for the activity …