Monthly Archives: October 2016

Quintessential Indian Tribal Festival – Pushkar Camel Fair 2016

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Witness the grand beauty of a quintessential Indian tribal festival at the world’s largest camel fair in the holy city of Pushkar, India. The ancient fair is being held for over 100 years now, but even today its vibrancy and grandeur continues to attract travellers from all around the world.

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During the fair, which will be held from 8th to 14th November in 2016, the serene city of Pushkar will turn into a lively site full of dynamism. This amazing cultural event, which has become a global tourist attraction, is held every year.

Highlights

Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony of the fair is a mega event, which is held amidst lively local music and a gathering of hundreds of brightly dressed camels & horses with riders sitting atop in colourful traditional Rajasthani attire.

Cattle Fair

The Pushkar Fair was originally started as a fair for the sale and purchase of cattle, including camels, horses, cows, goats, and sheep. The fair maintains its traditional charms, with a large number of beautifully dressed cattle being bought and sold.

Handicrafts

While the men are busy in the inspection, haggling and bargaining of cattle, the women, children and visitors may check out the countless make shift stalls that sell various traditional items including saddles and strings of cowries for cattle; traditional silver and bead jewellery, patchwork and printed textiles, and colourful Rajasthani footwear for women and men.

Incomparable Glamping

Although, travellers can choose from a variety of accommodation options right from resorts and cheaper hotels, it is the luxury glamping facilities offered by many local companies that actually make the visit an experience of a lifetime.

Adventure Sports

Sports lovers can head straight to the adventures section, which offers adventure experiences ranging from quad bike racing, paramotoring, jeep safaris, horse riding, and certainly Camel riding.

Hot Air Balloons

To give travellers more reasons to be happy, the Pushkar camel fair hosts a Hot Air Balloon Festival. So, hop onto a balloon and view all the festivities from the top.

Sunset Safari

Many local companies offer Sunset Safaris, which are camel-back rides in the evenings over the peaceful golden sand dunes. These rides take you to a spot from where one may enjoy a beautiful sunset.

Holy Dip

Witness grand spiritualism at the festival as scores of Hindu pilgrims take a holy dip in the sacred waters of Lake Pushkar. Pilgrims bathe in the holy waters as they believe that this will absolve them of their sins.

Contests

Various types of interactive and competitive contests are held during the festival. The festival becomes lively during the friendly Kabaddi and Cricket Matches held between a home team of locals and a team of tourists. Then, there is the photo contest Frame the Fair, which carries a hefty reward. The Moustache, Turban Tying, and Matka Race contests are traditional cultural competitions open to all visitors.

Best Places in the US to Celebrate Halloween

halloween

Planning to visit USA this month? Then you’re in for a fantastic travel experience! Why? Well, this is the time when Halloween is celebrated extensively in different parts of the country.

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Held annually on 31st October, this festival is something everyone should check out and participate in with absolute enthusiasm. As you may not be aware of the places where it is celebrated in a fabulous way, we have listed some of them below.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

Sleepy Hollow, a village in Mount Pleasant, New York, celebrates with live music, hayrides, street fairs, and parades during Halloween. One can participate in evening lantern tours that encourage ghost-seekers to go to the eerie Sleepy Hollow Cemetery – the grave of Irving and the tomb of vampire Barnabas Collins are located here. One will also get to see the stunning Gothic Revival Lyndhurst Castle as well.

Salem, Massachusetts

Often called the ‘witch town’, Salem conducts fun-packed events, special programs, and live shows in October. Haunted hayrides, gothic mansions, and the Headless Horseman can be seen. The list doesn’t end here! Salem Witch Museum has amazed people as it provides insights into the perception on witches. City visitors must expect heavy crowds and traffic here at the time of Halloween.

Little Five Points, Atlanta, Georgia

Little Five Points, a district on the east side of Atlanta, Georgia, hosts the Little Five Points Halloween Festival and Parade. Kitchens, food trucks, and stalls dish out tacos, wood-fired pizza, and smothered barbeque brisket. This year, the food vendors participating in the event include Tex’s Tacos, Delicious Finger Foods, Genki Noodles & Sushi, and Tropical Delight Pineapples.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Already known for casinos, nightlife, and fine dining options, Las Vegas celebrates Halloween in a wonderful and significant manner. Innumerable individuals wearing inventive and elaborate costumes head to the Strip and meet others dressed in a similar fashion. Fright Dome is not for the faint-hearted! There are haunted houses, scare zones, and premium rides. Las Vegas will win the hearts of people unconditionally.

Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville Zoo conducts its very own annual Halloween party which is truly one-of-a-kind! The zoo turns into a living storybook with costumed characters. One can opt for an exciting adventure in Pirates Cove and get through the giant hay-maze! You may also spot wild animals such as wolves, jaguars, rhinos, giraffes, and polar bears.

Upcoming Wine and Food Festivals in New Zealand

The beauty of New Zealand can’t be put into words. Suffice to say that the destination is called God’s Own Country and the denizens of this spectacular land certainly know how to live it up. This is evident by the colourful events and festivals held in different parts of the country. Here, we have mentioned some of the upcoming food festivals.

Taste of Auckland

Peek into Auckland’s food scene at the Taste of Auckland. There will be a variety of mouth watering delicacies as well as workshops by renowned personalities such as Depot, Miss Clawdy, Farina, Bracu, Maldito Mandez, Kazuya, Miss Moonshine, and many more. It will be held in Auckland from 17th to 20th November, 2016. Watch the top chefs of Auckland in action as they bring new flavours and delicacies to the table.

Kapiti Food Festival

One of the new entries to the top festivals in New Zealand, Kapiti Food Festival attracted around 130 participants from all across the nation.  Enjoy a delicious range of commercial food and beverages inclusive of sauces and dressings, liqueurs, dips, pesto, chocolates, condiments, wine, olive oils, coffee, ethnic food, and breads. It will be held on 3rd December, 2016 from 10 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon.

F.A.W.C! Food and Wine Classic

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F.A.W.C! is a 10 day event organised throughout the spectacular Hawke’s Bay in New Zealand. In November 2016, visitors will enjoy an array of 80 amazing events while hundreds of people will participate. The event will also be graced by eminent personalities, including Ray McVinnie, Josh Emett, Nadia Lim, and Al Brown.

Gisborne Wine and Food Weekend

Don’t miss the Gisborne Wine and Food Weekend, which will be held at three different venues. Enjoy the festival at any of the venues, namely Matawhero Wines, Millton Vineyards, and Wine Central Showgrounds Pavilion. With a history of 20 years, it showcases myriad varieties of food and wines. Undoubtedly, the sparkling collection of wine attracts connoisseurs from all corners of the world. It will be held on 22nd and 23rd October, 2016.

Historical Attractions in Rabat, Morocco

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Morocco is a North-African nation bordering the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Its capital ‘Rabat’ is widely popular for historical spots, vibrant nightlife, and scenic beauty. It is well-connected with other Moroccan cities and towns.

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Rabat is home to a number of tourist attractions, some of which we have researched and shortlisted below. Do check them out for a satiating travel experience.

Rabat Archaeological Museum

Opened in 1932, the Rabat Archaeological Museum is home to several archaeological artefacts. Most importantly, it has national museum collections. There’s also a prehistoric section, which displays human remains from the middle Palaeolithic Period (probably Neanderthals) to the Neolithic Period (4000 B.C.). Numerous old tools are presented that give a clear picture of what the potters and herdsmen used in the bygone eras.

Mausoleum of Mohammed V

Mausoleum of Mohammed V is the final resting place of three important members of the royal family. Locals come to this holy spot to pay respects to these leaders. The monument is beautifully decorated with ostentatious zellige mosaics and spiralling designs. The sliding doors and ceiling have also been carved in astounding motifs and designs. Needless to say, Mausoleum of Mohammed V is open to non-Muslims too.

Dar al-Makhzen

The Dar al-Makhzen is the official residence of the king of Morocco. The existing building was built in 1864, to replace an older palace. The palace lies at the last part of mechouar – a big parade ground. The complex features Collège Royal, a cookery school and a ground floor library. As the public is not allowed to step into the palace grounds, one may view Dar al-Makhzen’s exteriors from a distance.

Kasbah des Oudaias

Kasbah des Oudaias is a pictorial location in Rabat with white houses, providing jaw-dropping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Most of the houses here were made by Muslim refugees from Spain. When tourists will walk in the street, they’ll encounter very few people. This means one will be away from the heavy crowds and can enjoy the true delights of the city in absolute peace.

Hassan Tower

An apt reminder of a mosque that was never completed, the Hassan Tower is 40-foot red stone minaret created during the rule of Yacoub El Mansour – a sultan of Almohad Dynasty. Its foundation began with a plan of constructing the biggest mosque on the planet. However, four years later, the concerned sultan passed away, leaving the tower or minaret unfinished.

Popular Restaurants in Mexico

Mexico City is a gorgeous destination that has everything a traveller desires, be it tourist attractions or thrilling activities. Besides, the city is also very well known for restaurants that catch the fancy of food lovers. The information below will introduce you to a world of cuisines, snacks, and beverages you may not have tasted before!

Popular Restaurants in Mexico

Porfirio’s

If you wish to eat the best Mexican cuisine in Mexico, Porfirio’s is perhaps the place to be! It has mastered this unique cuisine with fine and contemporary touches. Not only that, the food is presented in an extraordinary manner. Those who want to have tasty beverages will be happy to know that the restaurant offers 100 diverse labels of tequilas and mezcales. As Porfirio’s is a well-known place, advance online booking is recommended.

Biko

Biko is a popular Basque restaurant that specialises in techno-emotional cuisine. The menu is an exciting amalgamation of Spanish and Mexican cuisines. Customers can choose from two distinct categories – one being traditional and another indicating forward and creative methods exemplified by Chef Gerard Bellver. Fresh and local ingredients are used for producing the best flavours. Unsurprisingly, Biko was ranked 31 in the S.Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2011.

Asador Libanés

Asador Libanés is a small but modern restaurant famous for mouthwatering Lebanese cuisine. The prices here are reasonable. During the week, three types of package meals are available, which include side dishes as per one’s taste and preferences. Desserts can be ordered too. For obvious reasons, the Asador Libanés can be a great reminder for people who have been to Middle East before. The finger-licking Shawarma must be tried!

Bistro Bec

Bistro Bec remains distinguished by its Franco-Spanish cuisine, popular terrace, and welcoming atmosphere. Different varieties of cocktails and martinis are offered too. The French cuisine served here is one of the best in the region and is simply identifiable by its variety of flavors. The chefs have experimented with numerous ingredients and procedures for years.

Bakea

With scrumptious cuisine and excellent service, Bakea steals the heart of food lovers!  This hidden gem provides Basque-French menu listing appetizing dishes such as rack of lamb, eggplant flan, and crab-filled canelloni. There are daily specials to entice people further. The cottage-like setting and peaceful ambience of the restaurant makes it apt for couples. Over a period of time, Bakea has gained many regular customers.

Take a look at the Natural Wonders of Argentina

Argentina is a huge country with a unique blend of endless natural and man-made attractions. Indeed, it is blessed with a wide variety of natural bounty, which has made it a favourite destination with travellers visiting South America. Discover Argentine landscape of frozen glaciers, sky-scraping mountain peaks, peaceful vineyards, breathtaking waterfalls, thick forests and harsh deserts. Let’s explore some of the most popular natural wonders of this country so that you don’t miss these in your next visit to Argentina.

Iguazú Falls

Iguazú Fallsby Ross HuggettCC BY

Iguazú Falls by Ross Huggett CC BY

Iguazú Falls is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the natural wonders of Argentina. The falls is located close to the Argentine borders of Paraguay and Brazil. The Iguazú Falls is part of the Iguazú National Park on the Argentine side and is considered to be one of the biggest waterfalls in the world, much taller and wider than Niagara Falls of the USA. Travellers can enjoy thrilling and awe-inspiring views of the falls and surrounding forests from a network of well-maintained walkways, observation decks and viewing platforms.

Ushuaia

Ushuaia is known as the southernmost city in the world and is nestled between the southern Andes and the Beagle Channel. It is a popular base for adventures of land and sea into the region called the End of the World, which includes Antarctica cruises and glacier explorations. Travellers can enjoy some fantastic winter sports and spot rare and exotic wildlife.

Perito Moreno Glacier

Explore the huge Perito Moreno Glacier, a part of the Los Glaciares National Park. Nature lovers can observe beautiful sights from the well-maintained viewing platforms and trails. Most travellers opt for boat tours to explore the glacier. Some lucky travellers have even been able to witness large pieces of ice breaking from the glaciers! Be adventurous enough to explore the glacier on a foot or just take a helicopter flight – the choice is yours!

Ibera Wetlands

Explore Argentina’s Ibera Wetlands, which are considered to be the world’s second-largest wetlands. It is an ecological preserve, which houses numerous native South American animals including anacondas, armadillos, caimans, capybaras, howler monkeys and over 350 rare species of birds. Travellers can discover the gems of Ibera Wetlands by hiking, horseback riding or by kayaking.

Bariloche

Do you want to visit Switzerland in Argentina? Then, head straight for San Carlos de Bariloche. The city is located on the foothills of the Andes and seems to reflect Swiss-based landscapes, atmosphere and chocolate shops. Bariloche is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes. Apart from sightseeing, travellers can enjoy outdoor activities including skiing, water sports, trekking, cycling, rafting and climbing.

Are these natural wonders incentives enough to book flights to Argentina? These are just a few of the many more spectacular natural wonders that adorn the country. Travel to the amazing country to explore these natural wonders and its rich culture and much more.

Unbridled Merrymaking awaits you at Oktoberfest Brisbane 2016!

Visit Oktoberfest Brisbane 2016 to experience authentic German food, drinks, and festivities in Australia. Oktoberfest Brisbane is the largest German cultural and food and drinks festival in Australia.

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It will be held over 2 weekends; these are 7th to 9th and 14th to 16th October 2016. It is a fantastic occasion for people to understand German culture first-hand and to enjoy a fun day savouring German food and beverages amidst traditional entertainment, shows, and rides thrown in.

Following age old custom, the festival will open this year as well with the traditional ‘Anzapfen’ on 7th October, 2016. The tradition involves the city’s Lord Mayor to tap the first keg of beer, offer the first stein of beer to the Head of State and announce ‘O’zapft is’, which means ‘It is tapped’.

Beer, Beer & More Beer!

Of course beer will be the main attraction and will flow freely at the festival. However, apart from beer there will be various other beverages on offer, making sure that there is something for everyone at the festival. There will be soft drinks, water, non-alcoholic beer, energy drinks, and coffee and tea.

Travellers will be able to enjoy German and Australian wines, German Sekt (sparkling), champagne, Schnaps mixers, and hand-crafted German beers. There will be supplies from 343-year old Bavarian Brauerei (brewery) Tucher Bräu, offering Lager and Weissbier (wheat beer). Australia’s famous Burleigh Brewing Co. will offer delicious German-style Dunkelbier (dark beer).

Food

At Oktoberfest, enjoy authentic German cuisine as you savour delicious Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Bratwurst, Sauerkraut and Schnitzel. Savour many more specialities including baked potato dishes, pretzels, ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’ (coffee and cake), Sacher Torter, and Apple Strudel to complete your German experience.

Some of the notable brands offering delectable delicacies are King of Cakes, Götzinger (sausages), German Sausage Hut, German Potato Hut, Haxen Haus, K&K Schnitzel & Burger Haus, Spaetzle Spectacular, Bald Rock Beef Jerky, the Organic Cotton Candy Company, Bunya Cheese and German Hut Biergarten Imbiss, and many more!

Events

Oktoberfest Brisbane 2016 will see a number of lively and vibrant events. There will be separate, dedicated activities and events for kids. Sundays will be special Family Fun-days, which will include singing, dancing, and yodelling! Participate in the Hat Dance or make merry with the Chicken Dance. Enjoy rides in the festival grounds, pat baby farm animals, and sit down for a German-style puppet show amidst roaming musicians and fashion shows.

There will be plenty of traditional German games, including the action-packed ‘Bavarian Strongmen’ competition. The team-based competition will include Jockey Race, Krapfen (Jam Donut) Eating, and Tug of War etc. Enjoy the Oktoberfest Brisbane Beardmeister competition – a competition looking for the perfect beard and moustache. The Miss Oktoberfest Brisbane is another competition to enjoy. The competition sees women compete through various feats including pretzel eating, stein holding, and milking cows!

Kids

This family festival warmly welcomes children. There will be dedicated areas for their entertainment offering a range of activities, rides, and hands-on workshops for toddlers as well as teens.