The 18th and 19th centuries witnessed some of the greatest explorations instigated by the then euro centric world that eventually gave rise to the British and French empires as each state attempted to explore and conquer as many states as possible. With the rapid expansion of these empires, more than one third of the globe experienced colonial rule for at least a century. However, the intervention from the United Nations and the financial setbacks experienced during the world wars resulted in many of these colonies receiving independence from their colonial rulers and the day in which this independence was received was known as their Independence Day or National Day. Vietnam’s National Day falls on the 2nd of September which honours the Vietnam Declaration of Independence …

The Manchester Pride is an annual festival that celebrates gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual life. The festival has been held for many years, although it only started to gather steam in 2003. Since then, the event has raised over one million pounds for a variety of charitable causes. It is a fun, energetic event and all those who happen to be in the region should try to attend it. In 2013, the festival will last eight days. As usual, the annual event will feature the Big Weekend and a colourful parade (on the twenty fourth of August). One need not purchase tickets to watch the parade as it is open to everyone. This year’s parade theme is ‘Acceptable in the 80s?’, and will focus on …

The festival which is organised in Cha-am City, Hua Hin is one of the most sought after attractions where visitors can witness the pomp and pageantry of local and international kite designs. The ‘Chula’ and ‘Pakpao’ are the two variants of kites that are part of the competition. Out of the Hua Hin hotels on offer, Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort with its well furnished suites and tropical gardens will be the perfect place for you to experience the best of beach hotels Hua Hin Thailand. A highlight of the festival is the competition that takes place between the Chula and Pakpao teams. The objective is to drag your opponent’s kites to your territory. Capture the finest of kite flyers from the world commune at …

Kiep Bac is a scenic village in Vietnam, a dream like valley surrounded by green mountains and canopies of white mist. This place is mostly known for its association with national hero Tran Hung Dao. He used Kiep Bac as his hideout during the 13th century. Vietnam’s supreme commander during the Tran Dynasty, Dao is acclaimed for his military tactics and has won victories against the likes of Kublai Khan. Because of such feats as well as his loyalty, humbleness and simple qualities, he is considered a saint and worshipped by many Vietnamese. The Kiep Bac Temple is a place of worship for those who want to pray to Tran Hung Dao. In fact the temple has a festival occurring on the 20th day of …

The Glasgow Doors Open Day is an annual heritage day celebrated in Scotland during the third weekend in September. It is a unique and popular event as it allows the public to explore the finest buildings, streets, parks and architecture of the city. This amazing event takes place throughout Scotland and it is organized by the Scottish Civic Trust. The Glasgow Doors Open Day began in 1990 and it has since grown in popularity, welcoming many visitors to the city. Its main aim is to showcase Glasgow’s remarkable history and looks to strengthen the pride and awareness among Glaswegians, while also broadening the public perspective of the rich built heritage. So for those who are interested in discovering the beauty of Scotland, Glasgow Doors Open …

Considered the holy month of fasting, Ramazan or Ramadan as it is also referred to, is a sacred time for Muslims the world over including in Oman. Those heading to the sultanate and looking for well placed Oman hotels from which to soak up the local culture during this time can consider Ruwi Hotel Muscat. Conveniently located in the heart of the capital, this hotel in Muscat provides easy access to the city and is a great place from which to begin your adventures. As in other Muslim countries, in Oman too fasting begins from sunrise and lasts till sunset. It is a time of prayer and reflection and is followed by all Muslims. Business hours during this period are often shortened or altered. Social gatherings and meetings usually …