A fascinating aspect of Thai culture is the nine-day purge known as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Held each year in the month of October, the festival includes an unusual parade that may take you aback the first time that you witness the strange sights. People pierce their tongue, cheeks and other parts of the body with sharp metal objects. Some even go to the extent of carrying large metal tools through their piercings. For instance, some carry bicycles, large swords and rifles which are pierced through the cheek and the tongue and balanced by both hands. The ritual is intense and is somewhat gruesome to watch, and it is not the type of thing that most tourists are accustomed to. However, the strength and the …

A fascinating aspect of Thai culture is the nine-day purge known as the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Held each year in the month of October, the festival includes an unusual parade that may take you aback the first time that you witness the strange sights. People pierce their tongue, cheeks and other parts of the body with sharp metal objects. Some even go to the extent of carrying large metal tools through their piercings. For instance, some carry bicycles, large swords and rifles which are pierced through the cheek and the tongue and balanced by both hands. The ritual is intense and is somewhat gruesome to watch, and it is not the type of thing that most tourists are accustomed to. However, the strength and the …

Hong Kong, one of the Special Administrative Region’s of the Republic of China, is one the most developed region’s in Southeast Asia. Known for its magnificent skyline and vibrant society, it is also one of the world’s most important financial centres. Hong Kong’s rich heritage, historical and cultural landmarks, recreational attractions and events, and unique lifestyle have also made it popular amongst tourists. An annual event which has gained international repute in just a short span of years is the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival. Celebrating some of the finest wines in the world, accompanied by exquisite dishes, this enthralling event is both grand and lively. Attracting wine and food lovers from all over the globe this festival was even recently added into the …

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 …

Celebrating its 63rd edition in September 28, 2013, everything is set and ready for the Miss World 2013. Widely known as the world’s biggest beauty contest, the Miss World title is considered as the highest recognition which could be received by a beauty contestant. Together with other competitive events including Miss Universe and Miss Earth, this beauty pageant is known as the most publicized beauty contest in the world. Originated by Eric Morley in 1951, Miss World pageant is the oldest existing competition we get to witness in present day. Surrounded by breathtaking landscape and magical natural scenery, the Sentul International Convention Centre, on the outskirts of Jakarta is the perfect location for this international event. Playing host to some of the prime international events …

The mid-autumn festival held in Singapore was brought by their Chinese ancestors and is still celebrated with much mirth and ardour. A yearly even in August or September, the festival has many legends attached to it. Also called the Mooncake or Lantern festival, the traditional date for the festival is the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Originally a harvest festival over the centuries, it has become a celebration of fertility and harvest. Moon worship is an integral aspect of this event and it is believed that the sun and moon are a couple while all the stars are their children. According to such beliefs, the moon becomes round when she is pregnant and after giving birth she changes to a crescent. Another legend …