Category Archives: Far East

A World of Entertainment awaits you at Bali Arts Festival 2016

The merry spirit of Bali Arts Festival 2016 will enchant every soul with its unique and vivacious essence. Fly down to Bali, a stunning tourist destination, to enjoy a month filled with colours and merriment.

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The 38th edition of the Bali Arts Festival will be held in the city of Denpasar from 11th June to 9th July, 2016. Read on to know what this cheerful art festival has in its kitty for tourists from across the globe.

What does it include?

If culture and traditions pique your interest, come to the festival and discover Bali’s past, culture, people and heritage. Explore handicraft exhibitions and cultural activities together with street performances and more. This enriching festival will rejuvenate you with a sense of excitement and amazement to know more about this beautiful city. As it is always seen, tourists will get an opportunity to witness the whole of Bali celebrating with music, dance and numerous activities.

Every year, the festival is based on a theme and village groups perform classical dances on the same. This year, the festival’s theme is “Pasuk Wetuning Bhuwana: Maintaining Universal Balance and Synergy”. The festival will include art performances, daily exhibitions, shadow puppetry, photography and traditional coconut leaf and bamboo decorations at the Taman Werdhi Budaya Arts Centre in Denpasar.

Explore to the Core!

A month long celebration buoyed by the never ending enthusiasm of the locals, the Bali Arts Festival 2016 will offer a plethora of enjoyable activities. Tourists will get to see village dances, trances performances, classical dances including popular palace dance, musical performances, and also the renowned “kreasi baru” dance from Denpasar.

The Commencement Trail

The festival starts in villages on a merry note. Cultural groups are organised to perform at the Arts Festival. These groups showcase their village’s uniqueness and the resting places of their ancestors through fascinating performances, which have never failed to allure tourists.

The famed cultural event of Denpasar, Bali Arts Festival is truly a fun-packed memorable event. Enjoy with the Balinese people and delve in the magic of art that various ancient villages have possessed for centuries.

Top 5 Festivals in the Philippines

The mood always seems to be colourful in the Philippines. After all, the celebrator frenzy of a number of exciting and colourful festivals throughout the year does its bit to create a merry festive atmosphere.

Philippines

Many of the celebrations involve elaborate costumes, parades and processions. Come, let’s take a closer look at the festivities.

Get Bugged by the Bees in Buyogan Festival

Buyogan Festival is a one-of-a-kind celebration. People dress up and behave like bees-in-action. Costumed children buzz around in a bee-like manner. Other participants put tribal henna designs on their body and face to represent the Abuyog’s ethnic history. Usually, Buyogan Festival is celebrated in the last weekend of August. It coincides with the feast day of St. Francis Xavier.

Masks in the Masskara Festival

Held in the third weekend of October, Masskara Festival is a week-long fiesta. People dress in graceful costumes and dance on the streets. These attires are adorned with exotic feathers, gleaming sequins and multi-coloured beads. The vibrant masks signify the jovial Negrense spirit of putting on a happy face when faced with challenges.

Bangus Festival

One of the country’s most elaborate celebrations, Bangus Festival is highly popular for its cultural fusion. Dagupan City is marked by hundreds of barbecue grills for cooking bangus. There’s the grilling challenge too. Other types of competitions include bangus eating contest and search for the biggest and heaviest bangus. Tourists participating in this festival get the opportunity to dance and socialise with the locals. These dances denote the bountiful harvest of Bangus. It is celebrated in April every year.

Higantes Festival

Higantes Festival is a two-week long celebration in the honour of San Clemente – the patron saint of fishermen. There are multiple activities such as Misa Cantada, song and dance contests, on-the-spot painting competition and art exhibition. There’s a procession with thousands of individuals splashing onlookers with water. The festival also features The Higantes, i.e. huge papier-mâché figures up to 12-feet high and 5-feet in diameter. The Higantes Festival is held on 23rd November every year.

Tuna Festival

Tuna Festival is a great moment for people wishing to try out a wide variety of tuna dishes. After tasting the delicious cuisines, tourists can participate in the street carnivals and befriend locals. This festive occasion celebrates the abundance of tuna fish. This year, it will be observed on the 5th of September.

Five Colourful Malaysian Festivals

The friendly and warm country of Malaysia is well known for its colourful culture and festivals. Once here, you will see Malaysians celebrating and socialising together in a unique way.

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Best known for its beaches and scenic beauty, it is a perfect holidaying spot. Visit Malaysia and experience its exclusive festivals. Learn about some celebrations that we have jotted down for you.

Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is celebrated mainly by the Chinese community. It is a 15 day-long festival that includes lion and dragon dance and fireworks celebrations. During the festival, Malaysia is decorated with traditional red decorations and lights in order to ward off evil spirits. People get together to cook various dishes and eat, drink and dance together.

Thaipusam

Thaipusam is celebrated by the Tamil community in Malaysia. The festival is celebrated in January and February when the stars are at their peak. It starts with a trip to the Sri Mahamariamman Temple and proceeds to the Batu Caves. Million of devotees from across the globe attend this festival. The highlight of the carnival is to see some devotees pierce their bodies, offer sacrifices and plead for the blessings of the almighty.

Wesak

Wesak is celebrated by the followers of Lord Buddha to pay tribute to Lord Buddha and show the importance of heaven. The festivities begin in the morning when people get together at Buddhist temples to pray and offer food and other gifts to the poor. A grand float procession is taken out during Wesak, with a giant statue of Buddha. It is a sight to watch this procession.

Lantern Festival

Lantern or Moon Cake Festival is also known as Mid-autumn Festival. It is celebrated on 15th August in Malaysia. Shops start selling a variety of traditional moon cakes almost a month before the festival. There are numerous exhibition counters in malls, where you can enjoy the festive feast.

Sabah International Folklore Festival

The state government of Sabah organises Sabah International Folklore Festival in June. The festival aims to enhance the local cultural inheritance. The highlights of the festival are international cultural group, international folk song and music, folk dance and traditional exhibition. The performance is organised by various ethnic groups from Sabah and overseas.

The Colourful Cheung Chau Bun Festival Hong Kong

The spring season in Hong Kong is full of festivities. One of the most exciting and intriguing festivals celebrated is Cheung Chau Bun Festival.

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Travel to stunning Hong Kong to witness the amazing days of celebration from 12th May, 2016 to 14th May, 2016.

The Festival

Celebrated in the lunar month, Cheung Chau Bun Festival is welcomed with the preparation of costumes, papier-mâché sculptures of deities and baking of lucky buns. Celebrated since a century, the festival draws people from across the world.
The colourful festival is delineated as an inherent element of Hong Kong’s culture and tradition. Just a short ferry ride from Central Pier 5 of city, tourists can heartily enjoy the vibrant and unique festival.

Pak Tai Temple

The oldest and apparently the most famous temple in Chueng Chau, Pak Tai Temple has a lot for tourists. Visit to experience a religious aura during the festival. Enjoy the majestic ambiance enhanced by fragrances of incenses that are set up around the temple.

Events and Rituals

The vivacious Cheung Chau includes an array of interesting activities and competitions such as climbing carnival, lion and unicorn dances, Piu Sik Parade, Chinese Opera Performances and kung fu performances. The mystifying merriment and customs ends with the ceremony of sending back the deities to their temples at Pak Tai Temple Plaza.

Apart from all this, the showstopper is the Bun Scrambling Competition, to be held on 14th May, 2016. The participants get on the bun tower to grab as many lucky buns as possible under the belief that they will get lucky throughout the year.

Bun and Bun Tower

The lucky buns are prepared with flour, water, and sugar as the main ingredients and strictly without animal products. Enjoy three distinct flavours of buns; lotus, sesame and red bean paste. Traditionally, the Chinese character stamped on the bun stands for ‘peace’.
The huge bun tower is covered with artificial plastic buns to avoid wastage of food during the festival. Experience the thrill as the locals scramble to collect the maximum number of buns. These few excitement packed minutes have attracted people for ages now.

All about Diving in the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Perhaps the most effective form of stress reliever, diving has enticed people since decades. Many divers and enthusiasts have whole-heartedly agreed that this sport has given them valuable minutes of peace and quiet. Beyond this, they have even compared it to the beauty of meditation.

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Realising the benefits of diving, we would like to introduce you to a popular location called ‘The Phi Phi Islands’.  The Phi Phi Islands are in Thailand, between Phuket and the Strait of Malacca. It has attracted innumerable travellers with its spectacular limestone cliffs and beautiful reefs. The white sparkling beaches, cool coconut palms and rich vegetation make this destination all the more appealing. The details below will be highly useful for both amateur and professional divers.

Diving Sites

There are multiple remarkable diving sites to choose from. For example, Koh Bida Nai is a well-known spot that offers wonderful views of rock formations with stunning shades of oranges and whites formed by the minerals of the rocks. Another location called Bida Nok has steep cliffs covered with a vast array of soft corals. Some of the other diving sites are Garang Heng, Hin Dot, Maya Wall and Loh Samah Bay.

Diving Season

The Phi Phi Islands can be visited by divers any time of the year. However, the months of February to May are considered to be the best. During this period, the visibility is higher. Nevertheless, divers don’t need to change their travel plans if they are visiting this destination sometime else as the climate is most favourable any time of the year.

Diving Tours

Interested divers can explore the flora and fauna life of the aquatic world with diving tours. For the convenience of the travellers, there are half-day tours, one-day trips, night dives, and three day tours with multiple dives. The company offering these tours will select the diving sites based on the current season. Lucky divers may even get the opportunity to watch the sun go down as they enjoy the waters.

Diving Courses

There are diving centres that offer a variety of courses to people who want to master the art of diving. One such institute is Sea Bees. It offers courses such as Open Water Diver, Introductory Dive, Scuba Diver and Advanced Adventure Diver. Divers can enrol for any of these to get proficient in diving. Of course, there are other institutes which can prove valuable too.

Four Incredible Bali Experiences

Bali is an ideal destination for your next trip. The island is known for its marine life, iconic safaris, the Uluwatu sea temple and beaches.

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Here, you can enjoy many beautiful moments and indulge in fun filled activities. The unique attractions and green waters of Bali make it an ultimate escape. The island is full of surprises for a perfect holiday.

Go for Bali Safari and Marine Park

Bali Safari and Marine Park is one of the best places for adventure and fun. You can find over 60 species of colourful animals. The freshwater aquarium, feeding displays, and animal and cultural shows are the highlights of this place. You can visit any time between 9:00am to 5:00pm. Also, don’t miss the traditional Balinese fire-dancing show and scrumptious BBQ in the N’kuchiro Bar & Grill.

Watch the Sunset at Uluwatu Temple

The Uluwatu Temple is Bali’s best sea temple. Located 70-metre high on top of a cliff, with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, it is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Bali. During sunset, locals and tourists gather to view the brilliant sunset. And at that time, the Kecak dance is performed at the temple. It is a traditional dance of Bali. Reach the temple at 4:00 pm so that you get tickets and seats before the performance.

Visit Pod Chocolate Factory and Cafe

Visit the chocolate factory, located within an elephant camp. The Pod Chocolate factory and cafe tour is a different experience altogether. Once here, you will get a chance to learn how cocoa beans are harvested, and later made into chocolate. If you want, you can even try making your own chocolate. The highlight of the visit is the three ‘Honey Bears’ who were rescued from hunters. You can hug them and click photographs.

Enjoy at Asia’s best Water Park

Waterbom is voted as Asia’s best water park. Waterbom Water Park is suggested to every traveller who wants to relive moments from his or her childhood. There are numerous water slides and fun filled activities to do there. You can go for the snake-themed Constrictor, gentle lazy rivers and much more. You can even try fish spa therapy.

Indulge in a World of Flavours at Gourmet Japan 2016

Treat your taste buds to a plethora of cuisines and delicacies that will leave you asking for more. The renowned celebration of Japanese culture and cuisines will soon welcome you to witness its fifth edition.

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Get ready to lose yourself amidst the mesmerising aromas at the venue and taste distinct cuisines prepared by renowned chefs. Scheduled to be held in Singapore, Gourmet Japan 2016 will be held from 20th April to 31st May, 2016. Food lovers from across the globe vie to book tickets in advance to experience this interesting culinary event. Hop on to know more.

Top Chefs in Action

The popular Gourmet Japan will be graced by International Guest Chefs, Iron Chef Hiroyuki Sakai, Celebrity Chef Hal Yamashita and Iron Chef Chen Kenichi. Numerous other celebrated and renonwed chefs including Chef Leok Yong Shyang, Chef Koichiro Oshino, Chef Kenji Okumura and Chef Akihiro Maetomo will be amongst the attendees. Also meet the three masters of beverages; Hidehiko Matsumoto, Mike Miyamoto and Kan Otsuka during the event.

The Schedule

The spectacular event will exhibit a range of flavours, creativity and techniques from the culinary world of Japan. The month long food festivity from 20th April to 31st May, 2016 will have two phases. People from across the world will attend the event to explore Japanese cuisines and culture.

The first phase will be held from 14th to 17th May, 2016 with promotions by Iron Chef Chen Kenichi and Iron Chef Hiroyuki Sakai at Me@OUE.

The second phase will last from 16th to 21st May, 2016 where guests can meet Celebrity Chef Hal Yamashita at Syun, Resort Worlds Sentosa.

Exciting Workshops

The event will include workshops to teach guests about contemporary and regional cuisines, whilst interacting with experienced chefs. Participate in workshops such as Cooking Workshop and The Art of Japanese Cuisine Workshops to explore culinary arts and signature Japanese influenced delicacies.

What’s more?

There will be special menus by International Guest Chefs Chen Kenichi, Hiroyuki Sakai and Hal Yamashita. So, enjoy month long festivities bringing popular personalities, chefs and food lovers under one roof to celebrate a world of food and flavours.

Top Attractions in Jonker Street, Malacca in Malaysia

Jonker Street, nestled in the heart of Chinatown, allures tourists with its flamboyance and charm. Once famous for antique shops, the street has gone on to become one of the most popular attractions in Malaysia.

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This street is full of shops, temples, restaurants and various attractions. Some attractions are worth mentioning here.

Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum

This impeccably arranged structure resembles the conventional 19th century residence of Baba Nyonya. One of the landmark destinations among tourists, the museum highlights the traditions and culture of Baba Nnyonya as well as the Chinese- Palladian style townhouses.

Cheng Hoon Teng Temple

The world famous and oldest shrine in Malaysia, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple upholds the ideologies of three religions; Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. Delineated as Merciful Cloud Temple, it was built in the year 1646. People come here to worship the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin. Also, the shrine is located close to Sri Pogyatha Vinoyagar, the famous Hindu Temple.

Jonker Walk Night Market

An unexpected side of Jonker Street can be witnessed at Jonker Walk Night Market. Spreading its charm every Friday and Saturday night, the market is an organised gamut of stalls owned by polite hawkers. Live music and performances add to the party-like charm while shoppers can indulge in some amazing retail-therapy.

Geographer Cafe – Jalan Hang Jebat

A blend of history and the present, Geographer Cafe is set in a pre-war shop house at the corner of the street in Malacca. Loved for its vibrancy and welcoming ambiance, it enjoys a good volume of tourist footfalls. One of the best places for food lovers, this cafe  offers lip-smacking delicacies and drinks, without being too heavy on the pocket.

Xiang Lin Si Temple

Built adjacent to the famous Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, this traditional yet newly constructed shrine practices the principles of Buddhism. Xiang Lin Si Temple is also characterised as Fragrant Forest Temple. A sophisticated shrine with minimal decoration, it is admired as a peaceful place for meditation and worship.

With so much on offer, Jonker Street in Malaysia leaves every tourist with lots of fond memories. One simply can’t resist buying the colourful affordable stuff sold here. Numerous attractions close to the famous street makes it all the more popular.

Adventures in Phi Phi Island

Discover crystal clear waters, blue skies, white sandy beaches (including the one from Leonardo’s famous Hollywood movie, “The Beach”), exotic aquatic life, mind boggling landscapes and lots more, all at one place – the Phi Phi Islands.

Phi-Phi-Island

This secluded tourist paradise is an archipelago of six heavenly islands. This exuberant destination is laden with numerous fun-filled activities. Water sports, underwater diving, snorkeling, alcohol served in buckets, dedicated party boats, rock climbing, yoga and learning Thai culinary arts are some of the popular highlights.

Snorkelling and Shark Watching

Watching bright and colourful oceanic creatures dwelling in their natural habitat can be a really soothing experience. Abundant in coral rock beds, Phi Phi Island is well known for the number of tour operators who organize snorkelling tours and also provide all necessary equipment. The most sought after spots to experience true underwater magnificence are around Pi Leh, Maya Bay and Hin Klang near Liam Thong beach. Along with snorkelling, some tour operators also organize shark watching tours at the “Shark Point”, located 800 m away from Long Beach, where black tip and leopard sharks are found.

Sea Diving and Scuba Diving

Diving is a very popular activity in Phi Phi Islands as the waters around these islands are thriving with vibrant deep sea flora and fauna. Well equipped PADI centres have proved to be a boon to amateur sea divers and enthusiasts. Many tour operators and PADI centres offer training and organize day as well as night tours to some of the world famous diving sites around Phi Phi Islands. Most exciting diving spots include Shark Point, Anemone Reef and the King Cruiser Wreck.

Rock Climbing on Tonsai Tower

Phi Phi Islands is also well known for its tall limestone cliffs along the coast of Tonsai Bay. The Tonsai Tower is a world class rock climbing site renowned for the 200 m tall limestone tower which has 48 routes. These routes have varying levels of difficulty and some are meant for beginners, while others should only be attempted by professionals.

Most Popular Annual Festivals in Singapore

Singapore is a popular tourist destination with world famous natural as well as man-made attractions and places. Besides, the destination has a rich heritage and diverse culture. People with their own distinctive beliefs, ethics and customs celebrate traditional festivals throughout the year.

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Check out the top most significant festivals of Singapore such as Chinese New Year, the Hindu festival of Thaipusam, the Malay festival of Hari Raya Puasa and many more. If you are booking tickets to the destination, try to be there when one of one of these festivals is celebrated.

Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year starts from mid -January every year. People all over Singapore beautifully decorate their houses. Shopping malls and city streets are jazzed up with lights and colourful decorations. You can enjoy special cuisine and cultural performances at this significant event. The Huayi festival showcases Chinese talent from diverse backgrounds such as theatre, music, and dance.

Chingay Parade

The Chingay Parade is a traditional celebration held every year in Singapore during the 15-day Chinese New Year festivities. The parade showcases performances by Taiwanese acrobats, salsa dancers and modern-day magicians. You can also get a chance to be a part of the performances during the parade. Don’t forget to witness the traditional Chinese lion dance. This is an eye opening cultural show, performed by people from different countries.

Thaipusam Festival

Thaipusam festival is said to be the most majestic festival in Singapore. It is a Hindu festival celebrated on 30th January, in honour of the Hindu god, Lord Murugan. The practices and rituals include piercing of the body with large steel hooks and other sacrificial acts such as walking on fire. You can attend this festival at Sri Perumal Temple from early morning till late evening. You can even enjoy traditional cuisine and Prasad distributed during the celebrations.

River Hong Bao Festival

The River Hong Bao Festival is one of the most important days in the Chinese calendar. It is celebrated to welcome the Chinese New Year. Celebrations continue for 17 days. There are large-scale displays of Chinese mythical characters including the Chinese God of Fortune and the 12 Chinese zodiacs. The beautiful arrangement of bright colourful lights in the evening simply looks blissful.