Tipped to be one of the most popular public holidays in the island nation of Sri Lanka, the National Day celebrations is a commemorative occasion to mark the country’s independence from Britain. Having gained independence from the British Crown on that hallowed day in February, 1948 the national celebrations of Independence Day recount memories from the colonial era and the hard fought freedom from foreign rule that was won due to the sacrifices and foresight of many national heroes and iconic political forces. Falling on the 4th of February each year, the Independence Day of the island formerly known as Ceylon by its foreign rulers, is a grand occasion that celebrates the country’s progress in the post-colonial era and in modern times with larger than …

While the Northern hemisphere is knee deep in layers of snow during the height of winter, the island nation of New Zealand, nestled just beyond Australia in the Southern hemisphere enjoys the best that summer has to offer. Fondly known by its citizens as the Paradise of the Pacific, the landscape of the island comes alive during this season and makes summer in New Zealand a truly magnificent experience. Summer in New Zealand is never static and is definitely never boring for there is always something happening. The Inter-islander Summer Festival Greymouth Races is simply one such example of the many attractions that has tourists flocking to the Paradise of the Pacific. The most recently concluded races were held a mere five days into the …

Rich in history, Bali has a rich cultural and religious heritage that can be experienced through such events as the Odalan Festival. An ideal base from which to explore the island and observe its many rituals would be Regent Bali, which is amongst the leading luxury resorts in Bali. Situated in the Sanur District, this Bali luxury resort enjoys its own private beach and tropical gardens in which to unwind in. A ceremony that marks a temple’s anniversary, the Odalan Festival pays respect to Hindu deities. Those visiting during the event can look forward to seeing such features as a form of contemplative prayer known as “muspa”. Various traditional performances such as barong dance and shadow puppetry can also be sometimes witnessed at such events. Google+

Nouvel An Chinois or the Chinese New Year is celebrated across the world including in the capital of France, Paris. An ideal way to soak up the atmosphere of this festival and the city’s many attractions is by staying at a luxury hotel Paris such as Le Royal Monceau Paris. Located near the iconic Champs-Elysées, this 5 star hotel Paris lets you enjoy the very best the city has to offer, from luxury accommodation to fine dining. Those visiting during the time of the annual Chinese New Year should make their way to the Chinatown area which can be found in the 13th arrondissement. During the festival period you will find the shops, restaurants and houses in the area adorned in a variety of decorations including red lanterns and …

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 …