Category Archives: Far East

Top Hong Kong Cultural Celebrations during the Spring Season

hong-kongSpring in Hong Kong is a time of celebration! From salubrious weather to gratifying shopping and an array of cultural fests, the season is marked by a great zeal and enthusiasm in the ‘Asia’s World City’. Here are some popular cultural carnivals that happen to express the real essence of Hong Kong, blending its contemporary persona with ancient rituals and bizarre customs.

Birthday of Tin Hau

Hong Kong boasts an influential maritime heritage, and the Birthday of Tin Hua, the goddess of the Sea, is an annual reminder of that! The locals flock to the temples of the deity and pray for safety, security and well-being of their fishing business. One of the famous places to witness this cultural extravaganza is Shap Pat Heung in Yuen Long, where a colourful parade of fa pau (floral wreaths) takes place, followed by the lion dances and a noisy procession of brightly decorated fishing boats. It generally falls on the 23rd day of the third lunar month (11th May in 2015) and attracts a huge number of holidaymakers who buy tickets aboard flights for Hong Kong.

Cheung Chau Bun Festival

The century-old Cheung Chau Bun Festival is still one of Hong Kong’s most important cultural carnivals. Held in the fourth lunar month, the week-long event sees loads of merrymaking with fascinating Taoist ceremonies, lion dances, drum beating and exciting games and competitions. The locals, dressed in cultural costumes, parade statues of deities through the narrow alleys of the island. Many unique rituals are performed to keep the real essence of the fest alive, and this is what makes it one of the world’s top, quirky local festivals. Quite naturally, a fair share of travellers who grab flight tickets’ for spring holidays in Hong Kong partakes in the carnival.

Birthday of the Buddha

hong-kong-aAlso called the Buddha Bathing Festival, it surely reflects the spiritual sides of people in Hong Kong. A number of rituals, taken from the life of Lord Buddha, are practiced and make for a unique cultural experience for those who join the festivity after disembarking their Hong Kong flights. Devotees visit the temples and pay homage to the deity by bathing statues. Various cultural performances, group chanting and holistic sessions add to its spiritual significance. Eating the special green cookies signifies the passing of the hard time in life and remains a highlighted ritual of the event!

Top Three Destinations That are Perfect to Celebrate the New Years Eve if You are in Thailand

New Years Eve is a time when the world basks into glorious celebrations. Of course, every country has its own way of celebrating this international festival and Thailand is no exception. Holidaymakers who are planning to book their trip to Thailand in the last week of December might want to stay there to enjoy the New Year as the ‘City of Angels’ has a number of destinations to offer unforgettable New Year celebrations. Here is a quick look at just three of them.

Bangkok

bangkokCountless restaurants, extravagant shopping malls, pumping nightlife and luxurious river cruises – there is no dearth of entertainment in Bangkok. A large number of party animals from all around the world book flights tickets to Bangkok each year to join the adrenaline pumping fun. Though there are many venues that are popular to celebrate but the best one is of course the Central World shopping mall. The celebration features marvellous fireworks, a beer garden and live entertainment with DJs and Bands.

Pattaya

pattayaHailed as one of the top destinations to enjoy New Years Eve in South East Asia, Pattaya offers an amazing blend of ancient culture and modern world charms. Bali Hai pier is where it is all happening. It is the centre of attraction in the New Years Eve as all the major events and activities will be held here. One thing that you should not miss the magnificent firework; do remember to choose the right spot to enjoy the view at its best. Visitors must also take a walk along the Pattaya Beach Road to catch the best of the celebrations.

Phuket

phuketThe largest island of Thailand cannot be ignored when it comes to New Year celebrations. Those who love beach parties would be delighted to know that Phuket throws some really insane beach parties, especially on the advent of New Year. Surin Beach is, of course, the hot spot as this is where the crowd will be and this is where it is all happening. Star studded night, top DJs playing; amazing fireworks and an unforgettable experience are all you can get in Phuket.

Top Three Destinations to Celebrate the New Years’ Eve if you are in Thailand!!

We might have different cultures and thus different festivals to celebrate all across the globe. But there is one that is celebrated by the entire world together – the New Years’ Eve. Of course, every country has its own way of celebrating this international festival and Thailand is no exception. Holidaymakers who are planning to book their trip to Thailand in the last week of December might want to stay there to enjoy the New Year as the country has a number of destinations that offer unforgettable New Year celebrations. Here is a quick look at just three of them.

Bangkok

bangkokWorld class restaurants, extravagant shopping malls, pumping nightlife and luxurious river cruises – there is no dearth of entertainment in Bangkok. A large number of party animals from all around the world book flights tickets to Bangkok each year to join the adrenaline-pumping fun. Though there are many venues that popular celebratory points but the best one is of course the Central World shopping mall. The celebration features marvellous fireworks, a beer garden and live entertainment with DJs and bands.

Pattaya

pattayaHailed as one of the top destinations to enjoy New Years’ Eve in South East Asia, Pattaya offers an amazing blend of ancient culture and modern world charms. Bali Hai pier is where it is all happening. It is the centre of attraction as all the major events and activities will be held here. One thing that you should not miss is the magnificent firework; do remember to choose the right spot to enjoy the view at its best. Visitors must also take a walk along the Pattaya Beach Road to catch the best of the celebrations.

Phuket

phuketThe largest island of Thailand cannot be ignored when it comes to New Years Eve celebrations. Those who love beach parties would be delighted to know that Phuket throws some really insane beach parties, especially on the advent of the New Year. Surin Beach is, of course, the hot spot as this is where the crowd will be and this is where it is all happening. Star studded night, top DJs playing, amazing fireworks, and an unforgettable experience – this is the least you will get in Phuket!

Top Reasons to Visit Singapore this Christmas

singapore-christmas

A place where lifestyle is as sensational as its skyline; culture is as diverse as its archipelagic topography; shopping is an obsession and options for hanging out are both soul and sense-tingling; Singapore hardly disappoints people who buy tickets to sojourn here! But during Christmas, the Lion City turns more magical and draws holidaymakers from far and wide. From the fascinating vigour of the annual fest to a colourful brew of art & history and the cool balmy climate; there is much more than the usual decoration that people visiting Singapore near Christmas can enjoy. Take a look!

Shopping at Orchard Road

The entire Singapore celebrates Christmas in style, but the famous Orchard Road takes the merrymaking to a whole new level. Resplendent in festive fervour, malls and shops in this one of the largest shopping precincts in Southeast Asia offer irresistible Christmas gifts, promotions and deals that make your shopping experience a little more merrier and worth every penny spent on flights and holiday deals.

From the big names in luxury fashion to local vendors selling quirky Singaporean concepts; this area on has a fantastic independent shopping scene which couldn’t get better than this during the festivity of Christmas.

Festive Feast

Christmas celebrations unveil ample of opportunities to feast. Many eateries on the island serve the most delicious cuisines and invite to savour delicious festive foods like potatoes, roast turkey, log-cakes and gingerbread cookies in an amazing festive vibe. You can head to the Ginger Garden at the Botanic Gardens for a sumptuous buffet of over 40 delicacies. Or contemplate a visit to 21 on Rajah, a Christmas communal set dinner that features mouth-watering baked salmon and braised duck leg confit.

Sentosa Island: Where Nature intermingles with Culture and Adventure

Singapore’s Sentosa Island is a holidaymaker’s dream come true destination with some of the island’s most fascinating attractions like Resort World Sentosa, Underwater World, Universal Studio and many sandy beaches. Wonderful dining and nightlife options also make this place a must-visit for all who have booked tickets onboard flights for Singapore holidays.

Most Popular Attractions in Penang – the Best of Sightseeing, Dining & Nightlife!

penang-aLush green hills and magnificent temples – Penang is a beautiful mix of a lot of things that are easy on the eyes. A number of travellers book tickets on flights to Malaysia every year to visit this beautiful place. As there is so much to see, sometimes it becomes quite difficult for a traveller – who is short on time – to decide the ‘what’s’ and ‘where’s’! Here is a quick compilation of the best of everything that Penang has to offer from each important holiday aspect – sightseeing & activity, food and nightlife.

penangSightseeing spot

Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple and the Penang Road of Georgetown – no holiday trip can be considered complete without visiting these iconic places of Penang. Penang hill is known for its panoramic views and a smorgasbord of activities. Hop on the train to enjoy the lush sceneries or simply walk and explore; the heavenly fresh air of the hill is sure to revitalize your senses. Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest Buddhist complexes in the world. The architecture is a blend of Thai, Chinese and Burmese styles which gives the temple a uniquely aesthetic appearance. Why should you visit Penang Road of Georgetown? Because it is perfect blend of contemporary and old world charm and is packed with top notch restaurants, karaoke joints and bustling nightclubs. Travellers can also explore the fashionable boutiques and antique shops here.

Places to Eat

Street food, dining on budget or fine dining – Penang has it all to suit the preferences of varied travellers. Love street food? Try the Mee Goreng at Bangkok Lane. If you are looking for some cheap and decent places to eat, Char koay teow stall, De Tai Tong café and Zealand Seafood are the best places. Luxury travellers who have booked flights’ tickets to Penang and wish to dine at an upscale restaurant, 1885 Restaurant and Kebaya Restaurant are the apt spots.

Nightlife

Over the years, Penang has witnessed a significant change in its nightlife. There are a number of places that blossom as the sun goes down. Auto-City and the Night Market are two of the most popular places to sample the wonderful nightlife of Penang. For lady travellers, F.A.M.E (Glo) at Georgetown is a perfect place. It is considered to offer the best ladies’ night in the country!

Loi Kratong – A Festival When Thailand Wears Glittering Attire

There are several gems that add a splendid diversification to the cultural affluence of Thailand. Loi Kratong is one such gem that creates a mesmeric traditional environment in the month of November every year. Loi Kratong or Loy Krathong is the Festival of Lights which spreads splendour of joy in various parts of the country. Travellers booking tickets aboard flights to Thai cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Koh Samui for the month of November can be a part of this cultural extravaganza. Read more to know how this Thai fiesta is celebrated in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Bangkok

BangkokIf you are disembarking flights at Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, on 07th November, consider spending your evening at Chao Phraya River. As the sun sets, during full moon night in the twelfth lunar month, this area glitters like a cluster of diamonds. Lotus-shaped receptacles are known as Loi Kratong that floats on water. Ritual of this festival is to put a candle, flowers, nuts, food and joss sticks in these receptacles and make a wish before leaving them over the waters of Chao Phraya. This dazzling scene under the shade of moon offers several worth-capturing moments and blissful experience.

Chiang Mai

Chiang-MaiBesides Bangkok, Chiang Mai is another city which is famous for Loi Kratong celebrations. Culture vultures buying tickets to Chiang Mai to participate in Loi Kratong festival can peep into some of the most prominent cultural facets of Thailand. Unlike Bangkok, the fiesta keeps up the spirit for three days. This year, Chiang Mai celebrates this festival from 5th to 7th November. Besides ritual of letting the Loi Kratong float over the waters of Mae Ping River, Chiang Mai also feature an array of activities such as boat races and several other contests. On 5th November, the celebrations start with a lantern parade at Thapae Gate and will reach Chang Klan Road around 2200 hrs. At the starting point i.e., Thapae Gate, one can be a part of contests like Yee Peng Kids Contest and Noppamas Queen Beauty contest. Second day boasts similar enthusiasm with a variety of parades and contests. On final day, fiesta comes to an end with an effervescent show of fireworks.

Penang Island Jazz Festival 2014 – A Must Visit Event for Penang Travellers in December

Known for its rich heritage and breathtaking views, Penang Island draws a large number of tourists every year. Among the many attractions in Penang, the jazz festival has a prominent place. Every year the island hosts an incredible jazz festival that is attended by a number of music and fun lovers. Penang Jazz Festival is all about music, fun, artist performances, jazz and loads of entertainment.

Inception

Though the idea of jazz festival in Penang took birth somewhere in 1996 but the final shape of the festival came in after eight years. In 2004, The Capricorn Connection organized the two day/ one stage event with some workshops and a mini jazz gallery; the idea was to create a festival experience. Over the years, due to its growing popularity, a number of other supporting activities have been added. Some of the most noteworthy ones are Fringe Stages, “Jazz with a Heart” Charity, Island Jazz Forum, Community Drum Circle and After Hours Jazz Jam.

About the Festival 2014

Bigger, noisier and better – this is the 11th edition of the Penang Jazz Festival and it is bound to be entertaining. As the festival has aged well through the years, it has established itself as one of the most popular attractions in Penang. A number of performers will rock the “Jazz By The Beach” stage this year. Some of the prominent ones are Crystal Bowersox, Carmen Souza, Monoswezi, Laila Baili Trio, CNIRBS and Jo Yeong Duk Trio. Apart from the performances, the festival will have workshop exhibitions, Sunrise @ TSG, After Hours Jazz Jam, Creative Malaysia Fringe Stages and the “Island Music Forum Sessions”. Over the course of time, the festival has witnessed a lot of talents, local as well as from the international acts from USA, UK, Australia, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, Germany, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, Brazil, Hungary, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, etc.

Highlights of the Festival

•    Jazz by the Beach
•    Fringe Stages
•    Sunrise @Tropical Spice Garden
•    Island Music Forum Sessions
•    Workshops
•    Jazz Gallery
•    After Hours Jazz Jam and More!

The Dates

The festival is starting on 4th December and will continue to rock the island till 7th December.

Locations

Bayview Beach Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, PARKROYAL Penang Resort and Tropical Spice Garden are the key locations.

Popular Guided Tours in Hong Kong for First-Timers

hongkong

The populous and bustling city of Hong Kong features on the itineraries of many travellers who wish to net tickets to China to explore its myriad oriental charms. However, for first-timers who alight from their flights in Hong Kong, venturing into the break-neck pace of the city-life may seem too daunting a task to undertake. Unless, of course, some well planned and carefully executed tours come to the rescue of bewildered travellers.

Explore Hong Kong from its Watery Lanes- Boat Tours for Amateurs

The Container Port in Hong Kong is the third busiest port in the world. Many guided tours start off from this point as the area is an ideal place to witness the transformational outlook that the city has donned over the course of time. With frequent stops at places like Aberdeen Harbour, Deep Water Bay and Stanley, paying for tickets aboard one of the boat cruises leads to some exquisite chances to witness the eventful life of the fishing communities, exotic markets and food stalls that line that the waterfront.

Splurge To Your Heart’s Content with Shopping Tours

Many travellers who board flights to Hong Kong are keen to explore its exhaustive array of offerings that one can purchase from the city’s multifarious shopping venues. Shopaholics can find their haven in many places like Causeway Bay, Island Beverly Center and Harbour City. Hong Kong has something to offer to varied shoppers, be it classy and pricy designer creations or the insanely affordable and cheaper versions of the same. In Hong Kong, with innumerous mind-boggling options, it is quite easy to end up spending the money reserved for the purchase of return tickets!

Gastronomic Sojourns for Foodies are Possible with Food Tours

Gourmands from all parts of the world admit to the fact that Hong Kong is one of the places in the world that is rightly acclaimed as a ‘food paradise’. However, for first timers, it may be quite cumbersome to find the best dimsum joint and wonton soup cart. The guided food tours not only bring out the best of culinary outcomes that Hong Kong has to offer, but also enlighten tourists about the significance of food-culture in the city.

Top Four Off-Beat Attractions in Hong Kong – Enjoy A Unique Holiday!

Attractions-in-Hong-Kong

Hong Kong is one of the most acclaimed holiday destinations in the Fareast, and most of its top attractions/activities are often talked about a lot! So we bring you some amazing experiences that may give a unique, fresh perspective of the Asia’s World City!! Book your flights’ tickets and get set to explore Hong Kong in an altogether new way!

Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Gardens

Drive down to Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Gardens, near the China Border outside of Funling, to relish appealing natural beauty, unique flora & fauna as well as organic yummies. Here, you can witness scenic pathways, beautiful streams and waterfalls as well as interesting exhibits. Also learn about the native art, environment and habitats before enjoying locally produced delicacies in any of the restaurants here. Surely, this strangely eclectic place is worth every penny spent on flights and other holiday deals for the destination.

Chung King Mansions

The Chung King Mansions, located along the “Golden Mile” of Nathan Road, comes alive with the gathering of ethnic minorities, African traders and holidaymakers from across the globe. The place literally brings the whole world together, and wandering here is simply a mesmeric experience. Chill out at restaurants that serve global delicacies or shop for interesting antics and souvenirs!

Hiking across Lamma Island

Hiking across Lamma Island will offer you some of the best experiences in Hong Kong. While trekking through the island, different species of trees and birds can also be seen. Don’t miss a meal of fresh seafood at a beach-facing eatery at the island! The historical Kamikaze Cave also catches the fancy of hordes of tourists who spend on flights for enjoying holidays in Hong Kong.

Ferrying to the Bays off Sai Kung

A ferry ride to the bays off Sai Kung is a great way to explore not just the region’s natural magnificence, but also its rhythm and vitality. Popular places to head to include the Lantau island, Cheung Chau Island and Lamma Island. Experience the great natural beauty around Hong Kong from an entirely unique perspective as you relive the exhilaration of a boat ride! Camping, swimming and surfing are other recommended activities during the excursion!

Cheung Chau Island Flaunts a Supremely Serene Side of Hong Kong!

Pak-Tai-TempleHad enough of Hong Kong’s glitterati? Exploring countryside might be a good escapade. Plan a day or two at Cheung Chau Island to immerse in a not-so-flashy lifestyle. Owing to its proximity to Hong Kong Island, numerous locals love to plan their weekends here. Few decades ago, Cheung Chau was a notorious hideout for pirates but today, you can surf on the rolling waves, gorge on delectable seafood and experience a sense of serenity at its historical temples. Here is a list of few attractions enticing travellers to invest in tickets to Cheung Chau.

Cheung Po Tsai Cave

History lovers boarding flights bound for Hong Kong must surely consider visiting this cave in Cheung Chau. According to a legend, the notorious pirate, Cheung Po Tsai kept all his loot in this cave. There are numerous signs in and around the cave depicting a navigable route that led people to the bounty! From here one can admire the captivating views of the dazzling coastline.

Pak Tai Temple

This is the one of the most prominent temples among the local fishing community. It is dedicated to the God of the Sea, Pak Tai and features an impressive design marked by several animal images, particularly the lion stones. Other highlights in this temple are Favourable Wind Ear and Thousand Li-Eye. If you are grabbing tickets aboard flights to enjoy a spring in Hong Kong, you can be a part of annual Bun Festival where magnificent towers of sweet buns are to be found.

Ancient Rock Carving

These carvings are located near Tung Wan Beach and have been added to the list of declared monuments of Hong Kong. According to archaeologists, this rock carving is around 3 millenniums old!!

Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre

Adventurous souls visit this centre especially to glide through the waves! This windsurfing centre is strategically located between two popular beaches – Kwun Yam Wan and Tung Wan Beach. From here you can rent surfing gear as well. After an eventful stint in the waters, surfers can enjoy a drink at open-air bar, located at the second floor of the centre.