Each culture has its share of festivals to celebrate religious events, changing of seasons and happenings of local historical importance. These festivals not only reflect the cultural and religious diversity of a country it also provides an outlet for cultural expression. As such the Caribbean region has its own share of colourful religious and secular festivals. In the Bahamas, Nassau and New Providence Island, Junkanoo is celebrated in two stages, the day after Christmas and on New Years’ Day. Nearly a thousand participants in flamboyant costumes dance through the streets to Goombay music. Prizes are awarded for the best costumes. The origin of the event can be traced to West Africa. Kadooment Day with 18th century roots, linked to its sugar cane industry is a …

Thailand is one of the most festive holiday destinations in the world. With a rich and colourful culture combined with a vibrant modern taste, Thailand is a nation where the party never ends. Throughout the 12 months that make up the year there are events and festivals that will surely entice the eager tourist. Some are traditional and others are modern and each comes with its very own unique platter of delights. If you are around during the month of March, prepare to be treated with the best of Jazz music at the Bangkok International Jazz Festival. Like every other event in Bangkok, the Jazz festival truly lives up to its name. A party that lasts all week long, the festival is colourful, loud and …

Despite its reputation as one of the more straight-laced nations in Asia Singapore transforms itself in to a celebratory epicenter come 31st of December. Globally renowned for its late night New Years Eve parties and iconic fireworks displays the Lion City is a one stop party central like no other in the region. Catering to party-goers of all ages and origin the wide variety of events taking place across the island nation provides the perfect atmosphere to hark in the New Year in style. Whether one is stopping over for a holiday or especially dropping in to welcome the New Year in Asia’s festive heartland revelers from around the world can be guaranteed of a memorable New Years Eve celebration when in Singapore. The Marina …

Showcasing local creativity and giving it the international exposure and regional appreciation it deserves is the prestigious Abu Dhabi Art Fair 2013. Make this event part of your cultural “to do” list when you make your stay at one of the quality Abu Dhabi hotels in the region such as the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi as its central location affords easy access to the art fair, making it an ideal Abu Dhabi city hotel to host your cultural excursions in the city. Venture down to the Saadiyat cultural district during 20-23 November and be treated to the creative offerings of the emirate, showcased in splendour at the 2013 Abu Dhabi Art Fair. You’ll be treated to a stunning array of ingenious art installations as well an impressive host of …

Langkawi in Malaysia is known for its many festivals and events. For tourists the city is paradise to absorb authentic Malaysian culture. Throughout the year the area is adorned with an array of different occasions. Starting from the grand New Year celebrations up until the end of the year, there is some festival to look forward to, each bringing out the best of authentic Malaysia. The culture is intense and beautiful and comes with colour, dance, deep rooted religion and unique skill. One occasion that showcases the craftsmanship of Malaysians is the Langkawi Crafts festival. The Langkawi Crafts Festival takes place somewhere around the month of December. The end of the year is a holiday season throughout the world and Malaysia gets a good number …

Planning to attend a concert of Alicia Keys’ Set the World on Fire Tour when in Dubai? Then make your reservations in advance at a Dubai luxury hotel such as Grand Millennium Dubai, one of the best 5 star hotels Dubai has to offer. The world famous R&B singer, record producer, musician, pianist, songwriter and actress, Alicia Keys embarked on her fifth concert tour on the 7th of March 2013. Set to last till the 29th of November, the tour is held to promote ‘Girl on Fire’, her fifth album. Grammy award winning Alicia Keys first reached stardom with the release of her song “Falling” and thereafter continued to extend her success story with more excellent studio albums and awards. From the very beginning ‘Set the World on Fire’ …