The holiday destination of Maldives is home to over 21 dolphin and whale species. A Maldives resort such as Velassaru Maldives makes for a desirable choice for any traveller in search of a Maldives Island hotel. Being among the most ideal places on the continent to experience close encounters with these sea creatures, Maldives is truly a paradise for the leisure traveller. Take part in one of the many available boat trips to see these magnificent mammals. Keep an eye out for spotted and Bottlenose dolphins as well as Spinner Dolphin who will entertain with you their acrobatic skills. During such trip, you are also bound to catch a glimpse of the majestic Blue Whale. Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn …

The Xishuangbanna province is undoubtedly one of the tourist destinations that is very rich in its cultural offerings. With so many interesting aspects of Xishuangbanna, one cannot simply explore the beautiful culture here over a mere span of a few days. Therefore, one of the best ways to discover the heart and soul of this vibrant community is to take in the famous Mengbalanaxi Cultural Show. The word “Mengbalanaxi” derives from the Dai language, which roughly translates to “mysterious and beautiful hometown”. This show is truly worth witnessing, and it presents a fantastic cultural opportunity for kids and adults alike to enjoy, as it beautifully brings to light the historic origins of Xishuangbanna along with local festivals, beliefs and traditions. The show is a very …

One need not be a car enthusiast to recognise iconic names in the industry such as Ferrari, Aston Martin or Lamborghini for these trademarks have become ingrained into our consciousness. Such terms are also associated with a sense of power, exhilaration and most of all, speed. Watch all these, and more, come together to compete at the 2013 Formula 1 Ethiad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this November! Sanctioned by the ultimate governing body for racing events, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Formula 1 Grand Prix races are organised globally. While these races have been predominantly conducted in European nations, recently the FIA has expanded to including non-European countries as hosts as well. As a result, Abu Dhabi will host the 2013 Formula 1 …

Polo was always known as the sport of kings ever since it was introduced to the world through the courts of the Mogul emperors of India. Coutts Polo at the Palace, which is an annual two-day sports spectacular, and it is one of the gulf region’s most prestigious events, as well as a fashionable occasion. It attracts high fliers who are keen on and associated with the sport, in addition to skilled equestrians, haute monde fashionistas, and local and international socialites. Ever since it debuted in 2009, Coutts Polo at the Palace takes place every November in the gardens of the Emirates Palace (a sumptuous hotel), Abu Dhabi. The Coutts team from the host city, the Maserati Team from Milan, the Faberge Team from London, …

Though relatively “young”, the cinema of Sri Lanka is one that has steadily evolved over the decades and has made a unique name for itself. Of course it is also important to note that the country offers numerous backdrops that filmmakers can take advantage of, some of which can be used as settings of foreign countries. Those interested in film production Sri Lanka has to offer can make use of the services of Nkar Filmeye. One of the leading production companies in Sri Lanka, it provides such services as scouting locations that suit your shooting script. The first Sri Lankan film was Kadawunu Poronduwa (The Broken Promise) which was produced by S.M.Nayagam in 1947. Other notable cinematic creations include Rekava (The Line of Destiny) and Gamperaliya (Changes in …

The charming French-Indo town of Pondicherry comes alive each year during the festive season of Deepavali, the “Festival of Lights” that celebrates the Mother Goddess in Hindu mythology. Soak in the excitement and colour of the city when you check into Pondicherry accommodation that is centrally located, such as the stylish Hotel Atithi that presents all visitors with an elegant Pondicherry hotel from which to commence exploration of this iconic Indian city. Deepawali, or Diwali, especially, is a time of great celebration and joy, with the festivities starting a week before the actual Diwali, and goes on for a week after. All ages are decked out in their Sunday best of ornate silks and scintillating jewellery. It is a public holiday in the country, with …