Celebrated around the world on January 1st, New Year’s Day is an event that attracts much revelry and partying the world over. It is a time of year when people band together regardless of country, class or creed and join hands to face the new dawn and the endless possibilities it will bring. The event is generally marked by lighting fireworks at the magical stroke of midnight as the night sky is lit up with a dazzling array of lights. Each country however, has special ways to celebrate this occasion. In America, one of the most popular places for festivities is Times Square in New York City where you can countdown the famous ball drop. In China such major cities as Beijing and Shanghai give …

Renowned as one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India, Pondicherry has a great historical background as a French colony. Pondicherry is one of the francophone locations in the world and you can still witness the colonial past etched into the great city and lives of the locals. This coastal town in South India still has remnants of colonial statues, churches and buildings. This popular tourist destination in India boasts of several architecturally significant churches influenced by the unique fusion of cultural heritage. The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine are some of the significant churches you can visit during …

Separated by a strip of peninsular, Had Rin Nok and Had Rin Nai are two entirely different beaches on two sides of the island peninsular of Ko PhaNgan in South Thailand. Had Rin Nai also known as Sunset Beach is the quieter and peaceful of the two, boasting of resorts and more family friendly accommodation options. This stretch of coast is considerably narrower than its twin and the sand slightly rough to the touch, while the sea is considerably shallower during the off season time. In contrast, Had Rin Nok, known as Sunrise Beach, is a thriving, bustle of activity, home to the famous Full Moon Party that is held every month around the time of the full moon. Clubs and backpacker accommodation line the …

The popular Chingay Parade is one of the most popular events that are held on the day of the customary Chinese New Year. At present it has developed into a major street event which boasts the presence of the procession of myriad colors. The origin of this parade comes from China even though it is an annual street pageant that is taken place in both Singapore and Malaysia to commemorate the date of birth of the Chinese gods. The term Chingay was created by the Chinese people living in South East Asia. Chingay means True Art according to Penang, and a mini adorned stage according to Singaporeans. You will witness a glamorous show off jugglers, dragon dancers, clowns, lion dancers, acrobats and percussionists bringing to …

It is that time of the year again. Resolutions, new ones and old keep you busy, getting ready for the dawn of a new year. It is that time of the year to take a good look at all that surrounds you. Count your blessings and appreciate family. The real reason behind celebrating New Year’s Eve is a mix of all these aspects. The festivities and glamour are all directed towards the appreciation and celebration of life. But this day means much more than celebrations to most. It is a valuable time to rethink the months gone by, and take the good memories as you step on into the future. It is also a time for letting go of bad memories to make way for …

Dubai is a vibrant city having rapidly developed to become a leading tourist destination. For travellers including those who are staying at luxury hotels and resorts, preferably of a luxury hotel group such as Raffles, there is plenty to see and do in the region. Festivals held in the city bring about a spirit of harmony and excitement. With a culture rooted in Islamic traditions, Dubai mainly celebrates religious festivals such as Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. However the world famous, Dubai Shopping Festival has achieved continued success over the years attracting visitors from all corners of the world. Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring …