Monthly Archives: June 2016

Top Fourth of July Events in New York

Home to the Empire State Building, Times Square, Statue of Liberty and other popular sites, New York City is remarkably fast-moving and a thriving centre of art, culture, fashion and finance. Foodies can have a delightful time at restaurants that grow vegetables on their roof gardens and bars that serve pre-Prohibition-era cocktails.

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Art connoisseurs can explore museums stocked with Japanese sculptures, post-modern American paintings, and Himalayan textiles. There’s something for everyone in the vibrant ‘Hong Kong on the Hudson’!

If you happen to stay in New York City on the 4th of July, you’re in for a treat! This city leaves no stone unturned in celebrating USA’s Independence Day.

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks

Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks 40th anniversary celebration will be held over the East River at 09:25 PM for 25 minutes. Four barges will be placed between 23rd and 37th Streets, and there will be a double barge under the Brooklyn Bridge. This means more visitors will be able to watch the spectacular pyrotechnic show from a distance. Saluting the American spirit, there’ll be an amazing score of patriotic favourites performed by the much-admired United States Air Force Band. The rhythmic vocals by Jennifer Holliday and the USAF Band will keep the audience entertained as well.

Jersey City Freedom and Fireworks Festival

Hosted at the Liberty State Park, Jersey City Freedom and Fireworks Festival includes live music, children’s entertainment, amusement rides and a smorgasbord of food and drink options. Performers who will present their talents include Annie Minogue Band, Eliza Neals, Shayfer James and JUDAH TRIBE. At night, the beautiful fireworks display by Grucci will highlight the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Travellers need to keep in mind that parking is extremely limited at Liberty State Park and the nearby areas on this festive occasion, thus public transport is advised.

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest

Every year thousands of people gather on the corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues in Coney Island to witness and enjoy Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, one of the most interesting events in the competitive eating. As the name suggests, contestants need to eat the maximum possible hot dogs and buns in a limited period of time. The one who eats the most, wins! Started in 1972, this exciting contest has been running quite successfully year after year. Following the same trend, Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest of 2015 was a huge hit! Quite surprisingly, Matt Stonie, the male winner ate 62 hotdogs and buns in 10 minutes flat.

French Restaurant Week

Hosted by over 120 participating restaurants such as GLOO, Antibes Bistro and Cafe Centro, French Restaurant Week allows people to enjoy special prix-fixe menu options during dinner or lunch. This promotional event entices travellers from around the world as they get a wonderful opportunity to taste the best cuisines at attractive rates. French Restaurant Week will be running from 4th to 17th July this year.

Travel Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi during Ramadan

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar, is observed by the Muslims as a month of fasting to celebrate the first disclosure of the Quran to Muhammad.

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The fasting starts at dawn and ends by dusk. As many countries and cities commemorate this festival on a large scale, tourists must be aware of certain things.

Food and Drink

Tourists need to be careful as eating, drinking and smoking at a public space is strictly prohibited during Ramadan. Car and bus travellers must stick to this rule as well. Foodies should be aware that most of the restaurants and bars are closed during the day. Many of them open only after dusk, but do not play live music. These places extend their hours at night for innumerable consumers. Contrarily, 4-star and 5-star hotels can provide special facilities for the international travellers. Getting meals delivered by room service is a convenient option!

Schools and Companies

Corporate travellers need to keep in mind that private businesses and government offices tend to lessen their working hours during Ramadan. For example, this time the public sector is supposed to operate from 9AM to 2 PM. However, keeping things diverse, private companies can have a different work schedule. Business meetings should be kept short and precise. Morning is the best time as business partners tend to be more attentive! Schools run for a shorter period of time.

Shopping

The shops are closed in the daytime but re-open after sunset. The bigger businesses shut at around midnight while the smaller ones continue till dawn. To entice potential customers, there are attractive discounts on clothes and electrical items. Shopaholics can visit popular shopping malls like Yas Mall, Marina Mall, and Abu Dhabi Mall for a delightful experience. Some of the malls may even feature shopping festivals!

Dress Code

In the holy month, international travellers should dress more modestly. They need to cover themselves from the shoulder to the knee. Revealing or tight clothes should be avoided in public places such as malls and gyms. Shorts, miniskirts are a big no-no! Although hotel areas might be slightly flexible regarding this, everyone should adhere to the laid-out norms.

Top Summer Events and Festivals in Canada

Canada comes alive with sound, music and loads of fun during summer. Scores of tourists flock to the destination to join the different events and festivals held during the season.

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We have listed the top six festivals/events celebrated in Canada during summers.

  1. Caribbean Festival Ontario:  Celebrate the immense diversity, culture, cuisines and music of the Caribbean held in Toronto from July to August. It has attained significance as North America’s most important and anticipated cultural festival. The festival will enter its 48th year this summer.
  2. Jazz Festival at Montreal:  Montreal can proudly claim to be the host of the largest jazz festival in the world. Hundreds of jazz concerts attract revellers in millions and the best part is that most of the concerts don’t require entry tickets. Apart from jazz, the festival also hosts concerts of different genres such as blues, reggae and electronica. This year, it will be held from 29th June to 9th July.
  3. Vancouver Fireworks:  Fireworks, pyrotechnic show and music is what this festival in Vancouver is all about. The sky lights up with a spectacular display of fireworks. This annual celebration of light has since 1990 become one of the best in the world and pits the best designers and competitors against each other. For three nights, Vancouver’s sky dazzles with lights and sound.
  4. Halifax Busker Festival: This festival lasts for 6 days and is held in the month of July and August. The world’s top street performers display their exquisite skills and showcase their talents, leaving the audience enthralled and amused. Musicians, comedians, acrobats and dancers perform to the best of their abilities.
  5. Toronto International Film Festival: The Toronto Film Festival is held every year in the month of September. It is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world and ranks only below the Cannes in terms of the presence of film stars. In fact, you are highly likely to spot your favourite film celebrity here.
  6. Cobuerg Sandcastle Festival: This annual festival is held in the month of July and is known for bringing together both amateur and professional sand sculptors. You can learn the nuances of sand sculpting or just laze around treating your eyes to the spectacular creations of the best artists.

Marvellous Attractions in Miami Beach

It may not be an exaggeration to call Miami Beach one of the most scintillating places in the world. As the name suggests, it is especially popular among beach lovers.

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The pastel buildings from the 1930s add a dash of old world charm to this beautiful place and attract many tourists every year. It sure makes sense to grab a flight to this awesome destination in the US for your holiday. Get familiar with some of the main attractions in Miami Beach.

South Beach

You will be enthralled here. Located in the southern tip of the Miami Beach, South Beach is an ideal party destination that attracts countless tourists. This happening place also offers marvellous views of the ocean. So, after partying hard, one may simply relax by flopping down on a beach chair and gazing out at the ocean.

Collins Avenue Shopping Districts

This is a must visit place for shopaholics. There are over 30 designer shops here that offer a wonderful cosmopolitan shopping experience. If you are looking for upscale retail therapy, there is a sea of choice to take your pick from. Some of the major shops here are Versace, Kenneth Cole and Armani.

Lincoln Road

Lincoln Road is a colourful place full of life and offers a plenty of things to do. Help yourself to indescribably great food at the restaurants here or go shopping for a wonderful experience. This traffic free stretch is also a lovely place to indulge in some people watching by simply strolling around at a leisurely pace.

South Pointe Park

The tranquil environment of South Pointe Park is said to inspire poetry in some. The park has walking paths, food stand and a lovely grassy area. It also features a miniature water park, which attracts kids. Besides, fantastic views of the ocean make this place all the more delightful.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a paradise for the one who loves nature. Home to a variety of native plants and trees, this garden is also a scintillating picnic spot. It has three themed areas, namely Japanese garden, edible garden and water garden. You can know about the history of the garden and the plants here from the tour guides.

Gear up for the Festivities of Canada Day

Canada will celebrate its 149th birthday on 1st July. Popularly known as Canada Day, the event is marked with lots of fun, complete with music, family events, fireworks and live performances throughout the entire country.

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The day, formerly celebrated as Dominion Day, acquired a more popular character, when it was rechristened as Canada Day later on. It is celebrated as a national holiday across the country.

How is it celebrated?

A host of activities and events are organized by the local governments, which include parades, carnivals, music shows and activities for all age groups. A sense of patriotism engulfs the mood of people and the national flag is on display at all places. Ottawa, being the capital city, celebrates the day in a somewhat more popular and grand manner. Most business establishments and government offices are closed and traffic is minimal. This year is expected to lure around a quarter of a million revellers in Toronto alone to mark the festivities.

If you plan to visit Canada, during this time of the year, then Ottawa is the place to be. Important places like the Parliament Hill and Jacques Carter Park organise huge parties that are flocked by hundreds of people. Cultural activities, entertainment shows and performances are a special feature of the celebrations. The evenings are marked with stellar performances by top artists of the country followed by a thunderous display of fireworks.

Celebrations at Canada Place

Canada Place is one of the most renowned landmarks in the city of Vancouver. The celebrations here are a tribute to the values, heritage and legacy that the country stands for. Watch out for the parade and colourful fireworks later in the evening at the waterfront area of Vancouver. Festivities will include Expo 86, pogo stick demonstrations, food carts, street hockey and a lot more.

Canada Day in Toronto

Like all previous years, this day will be celebrated with much pomp and enthusiasm at Mel Lastman Square in Toronto with live music, performances by dance troupes and brilliant display of fireworks. Also enjoy special water cruises at the harbour or visit Queen’s Park to indulge in a fun filled affair with activities and games.

Top Four Camping Sites in British Columbia

British Columbia, the last unspoiled frontier of North America, is not just any other tourist destination, but offers an experience in itself.

British-Columbia

Camping in this region will gift you with rich memories and also make you a stronger and more resilient person. Here are the top four camping sites in Columbia.

Mount Robson Provincial Park

An ice capped mountain in the heart of the Rockies, Mount Robson stands majestically. With several beautiful lakes like Kinney Lake and Berg Lake in the picturesque landscape, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding your camp site from a range of 77 official camping grounds. The camp sites are open for reservations from May to September. One can catch a flight from London to Vancouver and from there on to Prince George Airport followed by a 300 kilometre drive.

Tofino, Vancouver Island

Canada often conjures images of cold icy terrain which is not entirely true. Tofino, a district located in the Vancouver Island just off the city of Vancouver experiences warm winters and mild summers. Fancy camping along the beach? Tofino is the place for you as it offers a world of other exciting activities too. You may even sight humpback whales cavort in and out of the ocean.

Shuswap Lake Provincial Park

Sandy pebbled beaches, numerous creeks, grassy areas, and hiking and nature trails – all vie for your attention in this extremely popular location, which opens from July till September. If you are lucky, you may even spot the “Shuswaggi”, a serpentine creature. With over 274 camping sites allotted on ‘first come first serve’ basis, this destination should definitely figure in your camping plans. You can easily book a flight from London to Kamloops Airport, from where the lake is just a 1.5 hour drive.

Bowron Lake Provincial Park

Do you find camping in rugged, rough mountains irresistible? If so, you will love the Bowron Lake Park. Turquoise blue lakes and bright sunshine as well as heavy torrents of rain elevate the joy of camping here. An additional attraction is the 116 kilometre canoe circuit through the Cariboo Mountains. Direct flights are available from London to Quesnel airport followed by a 105 kilometre drive.

The Romance of the Top 5 Trekking Trails in Australia

Australia offers some of the most rewarding trekking opportunities. These trail walks take one across the vast wilderness and beautiful landscapes of the country.

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Deep gorges, valleys, mountains and magnificent waterfalls will captivate your deepest senses as you trek along the trails.

Great Ocean Walk, Victoria

Stretching for around 104 kilometres, the spectacular coastline of Victoria offers a unique trekking experience and can be completed in about 8 days. The route passes through areas that are home to a wide variety of animals like koalas, wallabies, reptiles and several bird species. Different landscapes such as windswept cliffs, deserted beaches, marine sanctuaries and rugged coasts greet you along the route.

Overland Track, Tasmania

Widely acclaimed as one of the best hiking trails in Australia, this track in the island of Tasmania spans 65 kilometres and can be completed in 5 to 6 days. The diverse vistas and landscapes comprising of waterfalls, lakes and mountains make the journey all the more overwhelming. The season lasts from October to May and prior booking is recommended.

Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

Snaking its way along mountains and ridges, this 223 kilometre long trek is said to offer the ultimate bushwalking experience due to its remoteness and rugged topography. It takes about 14 days to complete the trail but a quicker expedition is possible with the aid of a support vehicle. Summer temperatures can soar as high as 45 degree Celsius, so winters are a better time of the year to make this trek.

Thorsborne trail, Queensland

This 32 kilometre trail in the Hinchinbrook Island is an unspoilt tropical paradise that offers spectacular views of cloud-cloaked mountains while taking you through rainforests, swamps and pristine white beaches. The diverse wildlife comprising of bright butterflies, exotic birds, crocodiles, sea turtles, dugongs and dolphins along the trail render a sight to behold.

Australian Alps Walking Track, Eastern Australia

This trail offers an epic trekking experience along the Australian Alps. Covering a challenging distance of 655 kilometres, the trail passes through alpine national parks, high mountains and expansive high plains. Prior experience in trekking and skills in navigation go a long way in making this endeavour less daunting.

Top 4 Destinations for kids in Bangkok

Bangkok offers plenty of attractions and activities for families with kids. From entertainment parks to intriguing wildlife, the city has enough in its kitty to catch the fancy of the young. Take a look at the top four.

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Funarium Playground

This air conditioned wonderland is designed to keep kids busy and overwhelmed with a number of sporting and artistic activities. Secret passageways, basketball hoops, trampoline, slides, race track cum skating rink, toys, sand pits, arts and crafts centre and dance performances keep the kids enthralled throughout.  It also has a dedicated section for parents to enjoy some peace and quiet while their kids have fun.

Kidzania Bangkok

Kidzania Bangkok is an ‘edutainment city’ in Siam Paragon mall where children can play adults by doing simulated jobs like nursing, news reporting, fire fighting, flying and others. The activities are designed to simulate real world conditions using realistic equipment, complete with relevant uniforms and dress code. Parents are not allowed to interfere in the chores of the ‘city’ and can instead relax at the nearby lounge. Watch your young one as a life saver in the form of a doctor, a heroic fire-fighter or a suave pilot and cherish their innocent delight and happiness.

Siam Ocean World

Located beneath the famous Siam Paragon mall, this ‘world’ boasts one of the largest underground aquariums in South East Asia spanning the size of three Olympic swimming pools.  Dazzle your kids with over 30,000 creatures from various aquatic regions of the world neatly categorized according to their environment. A 270 degree underwater tunnel, dedicated shark tank and LED shows will amaze your kids no end. The fun does not stop here! You may also dive into the water.

Safari World

Tired of seeing animals in enclosures? Safari World, located just on the outskirts of Bangkok, offers an opportunity for a unique yet safe intimate encounter with animals. Spread over an area of more than 400 acres, the animals here roam freely across vast open spaces. Watch the animals in their natural settings and keep a camera handy. You will see fantastic sights such as tigers bathe, zebras graze, and bear cubs cuddle right in front of you. There is also a theme park with animal performances, featuring seven shows, including the hugely popular and delightful dolphin show. And to top it all, you can even feed giraffes from a feeding platform!

A Guide to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

Disneyland, synonymous with fun, amusement and recreation and attracts tourists from across the world. It’s a place for kids to witness their favourite television characters in real life and a chance for adults to revisit their childhood.

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Disneyland is not just any another amusement park- it is an experience in its own right. This article is an attempt to familiarise you with the wonders and attractions of the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

Disneyland Park

Featuring seven themed areas- Main Street, Fantasyland, Adventure land, Tomorrowland, Grizzly Gulch, Mystic Point and Toy Story Land, the park is considered to be the lifeline of the resort. With such an impressive array of theme parks, your kids will be spoilt for choice. Castles, cartoon characters, live shows, joy rides, sleds and souvenir shops at this park will definitely steal your attention. Experience the natural and magical life in the Adventure land, complete with forests and cabins where fairies, dwarves and other fairy tale characters come to life.

Frontierland, an imitation of the American Old West, complete with mountains, cowboys, saloons and “uncharted wilderness” offers the perfect outdoor experience.

A visit to Tomorrowland takes one to a futuristic world full of spaceships, submarines, railroads and other attractions. Star Wars movie enthusiasts will rejoice over the fact that there are dedicated sections where you can meet stormtroopers, undergo Jedi training and do a lot more.

Disneyland Hotel

The Disneyland hotel, located in the heart of the resort, is perfect for staying in the midst of an entertaining atmosphere. You can choose from over 400 rooms which offer stunning views of the sea and the garden area. For more comfort and luxury, opt for the Kingdom Club suites that offer great views and excellent amenities. The hotel also has several ballrooms and convention centres.

Disneyland Hollywood Hotel

This hotel is a tribute to the Golden Age of Hollywood, complete with sophisticated styling, latest amenities, tasteful decorations and a piano shaped swimming pool (complete with black and white keys). Here, you will have none other than Mickey Mouse as your waiter, who will amuse you with his antics and at the same time dish out various Asian and seafood delicacies, followed by a range of fine wines.

Six Highlights of Atlanta Cycling Festival 2016

The beautiful and historic city of Atlanta, USA welcomes all to the weeklong Atlanta Cycling festival, starting from June 11th, 2016.

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Avid cyclists from world over participate in this event. Here, we have presented five highlights.

Opening Party

The festival kick starts with a bang! A parking deck is converted into an awesome bicycle event space. Light shows, music and beer, stunning views and the infectious enthusiasm of fellow cyclists- all blend into a night of revelry and fun.

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Visual art meets cycling in this “bikestameet” event, wherein riders travel throughout the city in search of a photo opportunity finally culminating in the Elliot Street Pub. Capture the beauty of the city with your camera and carry home a bundle of fond memories.

The Phoenix Tour

This event, not for the faint hearted, is a 17 mile ride around the SW, NW and SE Atlanta. It also involves exploring the historical pockets of the city. Several hills and bumps along the way make the ride a bit daunting and physically exerting at times. Enjoy sandwiches along the way and savour the official tortilla chip of the 2016 Atlanta Cycling festival, the ‘Paqui’. The event will be held on 11th June at 8:30 am local time.

MACC Casual Ride

The Metro Atlanta Cycling Club invites people to participate in a casual ride through the city streets. One may opt for the shorter ride spanning 18 miles or take the 28 mile longer route. Fellow cyclists will cheer you all along the way. The ride commences on 11th June and it is recommended that you carry a safety helmet, extra tube, air cartridge and some energy bars/drinks.

BeltLine Mountain Bike Ride

Cyclists, who are not fond of pedalling through city lanes, would perhaps like the trails full of dirt and tricky terrain. This event is for more advanced bikers looking for a more challenging experience. The event will be conducted on 14th June at 7 pm local time.

Quick Release Art Print Show

‘Art prints’ themed around cycles and ‘brews’ of Eventide – this is what the event promises on 17th June. The show features limited edition prints of more than 10 bicycle artists, which are sold for $35 each. Entry to the event is free, though a ticket is required to enjoy the beverages.