Vietnam is a country that boasts a vibrant array of cultural festivals that each showcases a different facet of its bejewelled society. One such example amongst many others is the festival of Keo Pagoda, which lasts for three days in honour of the famed Buddhist Monk of yore, Khong Lo. The festival is held twice each year; in the spring of the fourth day of the first lunar month and in the autumn from the 13th to the 15th day of the ninth lunar month. Emphasis, though, is given to the ninth lunar month’s 14th day as it is not only Khong Lo’s birthday but the 100th day after the official date of his death. Come closer and listen well, for legend tells of the …

The southwest province of Yunnan in China is home to the prefecture of Xishuangbanna, which offers a splendid cultural offering that is worth discovering. It is home to the Dai ethnic community, which accounts for 34% of the state’s population and the annual water-splashing festival in the month of April is a fun event celebrated and enjoyed to the fullest by locals and visitors alike. The best way to soak up the festivities is from a quality hotel Yunnan has to offer its visitors, such as the Anantara Xishuangbanna. With its elegantly-appointed interiors and scenic locale, it is an ideal hotel in Yunnan to host your stay. When you visit Xishuangbanna during the month of April, which coincides with the Chinese New Year, you are …

September 19th, the 15th day of the 9th lunar month according to the Chinese lunar calendar, has been set aside this year to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival throughout China and amongst Chinese communities all over the world. From the 19th to the 21st of September, people of Chinese origin everywhere will take advantage of the pleasant autumn weather to get together with family and friends to share a meal, in which moon cakes figure prominently, under the light of a moon that is at its fullest. Thousands of people who may have migrated from Hainan Island return home to be with family and friends for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Many decorate their homes in coloured lights and red lanterns on tall bamboo poles. Street markets spring …

The international singing sensation Taylor Swift will be returning to New Zealand with The Red Tour. Make your reservations in advance at an Auckland city hotel such as Copthorne Hotel Auckland City to enjoy exclusive Auckland hotel specials to enhance your experience while you prepare to attend the concert. Taylor’s fourth studio album titled ‘Red’ was released back in October 2012 and features a number of hit singles. The red Tour’s concert in Auckland is set to take place at the Vector Arena on 20th and 30th of November 2013. Swift will be joined by the renowned alternative rock band Neon Trees for guest performances. The performances of the Red Tour feature elaborate costumes, multi-level stages, changing sets, aerialists, dancers and more. You can expect …

Located just south of the Indian peninsula is the tropical island nation of Sri Lanka. Also known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Sri Lanka is nation with a rich heritage and multi-cultural society. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it is home to beautiful golden sandy beaches, magnificent mountains with lush greenery, renowned religious and historical sites, and a booming hospitality industry along with a wide range of recreational and leisure attractions. There are many religious and cultural festivals that are celebrated in Sri Lanka. One such festival which is of immense significance to the Hindu Tamils of the island is Deepavali. This festival, which is a celebration of good triumphing over evil, is also celebrated in India, Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore, …

A traveller planning to enjoy their holiday in Indonesia to the fullest should make it a point to make reservations at a Bali luxury spa resort. An ideal choice of a Bali spa resort is COMO Shambhala Estate Bali. An island rich in natural beauty, Bali has long been a famed tourist destination. Whilst there are numerous attractions for travellers to explore, local events and festivals offer a glimpse into the distinctive local culture. Some of these festivals celebrate the art of woodcarving whilst others include harvest festivals, harvest festivals, colourful parades, fasting ceremonies and more. Experience the wide range of vibrant dances, processions, purification and much more. When it comes to non-religious festivals, there is the country’s Independence Day. Thanuja Silva is a travel …