Articles by Pushpitha Wijesinghe on ArticleSnatch.com

Absolute Tropical Tranquility â Kalutara Beach

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 06:48:29 -0500

Located just 40km from Sri Lanka’s commercial hub, Colombo, lies the bustling and vibrant city of Kalutara. This energetic and colourful city has been a prominent part of Sri Lanka throughout history, and was a main spice trading centre during the Portuguese Era of Sri Lanka. Kalutara is popular among many tourists, as the city provides an excellent view of the exotic and intriguing lifestyle of Sri Lanka. One of the most famous features of Kalutara is its beautiful strip of beach, which truly is the embodiment of tropical tranquility. This magnificent strip of coastline is one of Sri Lanka’s finest beaches, and attracts many locals and tourists on a daily basis. This wonderful strip of shoreline, with its many Palmyra trees, soft white sand, and warm sparkling water is one of the best places to visit in order to just bask in bliss. With the shimmering tropical sun shining brightly overhead, the Kalutara Beach is an ideal place to just laze in the sun and get a tan or have a relaxing dip in the warm clear waters of the sea. **End Summary** Topics: attractions in sri lanka]]> places to visit in sri lanka]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

History of Travel - Old Town and Canal Wuxi

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:46:55 -0500

Wuxi is a city crisscrossed by many canals, most built during the Ming Dynasty, and even a more recent one built after 1949. Emperor Qin built the first canal 2,000 years ago to link northern China to its southern part. Known as the Grand or Imperial Canal the 1,720 mile waterway from Beijing to Hangzou is reputedly the world’s oldest and longest and passes through many cities including a 14.6 km very scenic stretch that runs through Wuxi starting from the south gate of the old city to the north gate, bisecting the city. The canal was considered Wuxi’s cultural lifeline. It linked the city with the outside world for centuries. Visitors privileged to take a trip on the canal will be taken back in time when most of the commerce in the area took place on this canal and now old houses looming on the sides and ancient bridges arching overhead are what remain of the past. One of these typical Chinese bridges, the subject of many paintings and postcards and one in a reasonable state of preservation is the 16th century Qingming Bridge built during the Ming Dynasty. **End Summary** Topics: old town and canal]]> attractions in wuxi]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Get close to nature at Udawalawe National Park

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:32:04 -0500

Udawalawe National Park is considered to be the third most visited national park in Sri Lanka and it is located between the Uva and Sabaragamuwa Districts of the country and thus can be found more towards the Southern part of the island. It is a popular tourist destination and is visited not only by foreigners but also by a large number of local wildlife and nature enthusiasts. The reserve was established in 1972 as a sanctuary for wild animals, who were displaced during the building of the Udawalawe reservoir. Over the years the farmers cultivating in the area have been gradually removed and provided with alternative areas for farming. The national park is perhaps the most popular spot in the country to go elephant watching as there are a large number of pachyderms who have made this place their home. For wildlife enthusiasts, it is a perfect place to go watching not just for elephants but also a wide range of birds such as cormorants, painted storks, Sri Lankan hornbills, Sri Lanka jungle fowls, red faced malkohas and a variety of species that are both endemic and migrant. **End Summary** Topics: udawalawe national park]]> sri lanka elephant safaris]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Walk To The Edge Of The World at World's End Nuwara Eliya

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 03:02:53 -0500

Ever wanted to walk to the edge of the world to see what it is like? Well, any visitor to Sri Lanka can definitely do that, at a breathtaking natural site known as World’s End. What awaits is a sight that gives one the feeling of peering over the end of the world with mist covering everything beyond the cliff, and a sheer drop as far as the eye can see! The World’s End is located in Sri Lanka, bordering its Badulla, Nuwara Eliya and Ratnapura Districts. To get to this awe inspiring place one has to walk through the highest plain of the country known as Horton Plains. It is similar to a walk depicted in fairy tale stories with wild flowers of vibrant hues swaying in the wind and waterfalls and creeks with cool fresh water guiding the traveller along the way. Most of the visitors are lucky enough to spot more than just a few wild sambhurs, a type of deer species, particularly at night. For those who like to be close to nature, this is indeed an ideal place to visit. **End Summary** Topics: world's end nuwara eliya]]> sri lanka attractions]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Temple of Dawn of ravishing sunrises and sunsets

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:23:40 -0500

Inspired by the Goddess of Dawn and depicting the mountain ‘Meru’ which is the centre of the universe according to Buddhist theory, the Temple of Dawn is truly a mesmerizing site both at sunrise and even sunsets. With an 80 metre high khemer style pagoda covered with glistening porcelains of intricate patterns on its walls which is duly enhanced by four satellite prangs, the temple draws a delightful vision across the Chao phraya river from where its view can be greatly appreciated. The temple of dawn, otherwise known as the Wat Arun Rajawararam is one of the most alluring temples and prominent landmarks in Thailand and is located on the Thonburi west bank of the Chao phraya river. Originally built on a different location, the temple changed its location to the current one during the time of Rama 1and was reconstructed by Rama 11. The central prang is definitely the most alluring sight of the temple, receiving the sunlight well at both sunrise and sunsets with its colourful porcelains pieces. The four satellite prangs are also decorated by porcelain as well as seashells. **End Summary** Topics: Temple of Dawn Anantara Bangkok Sathorn Bangkok Hotel]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Mui Ne Beach â Vietnam's Most Popular Beach

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:27:33 -0500

Filled with dramatic landscapes and bright colours, Vietnam is a country with a great historical heritage. While life in the villages and other rural areas remain slow and unchanged, the pace of life in the cities is breakneck and exhilarating. The streets, from the biggest roads to the smallest byways, are always buzzing with activity. The local cuisine is a blend of strong flavours, with little subtlety. Bold, vibrant and vivid, Vietnam is all that and more. This is a country celebrating a clean break from its tragic history and enthusiastically embracing its future. Those planning a vacation in Asia should consider this rapidly evolving tourist destination. Mui Ne beach was once a long, lonely stretch of gorgeous land, but has been transforming rapidly with rows of major developments that line the coast. The dynamic tourist destination has completely shrugged off its identity as a sleepy little fishing village, although one still exists on the east end of Mui Ne beach. The coastal town of Mui Ne is located in the southeastern part of Vietnam and is part of the Binh Thuan province. It is quite close to the city of Phan Thiet. **End Summary** Topics: mui ne beach]]> vietnam hotel]]> resort in mui ne]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

The historic Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:04:23 -0500

Wat Phra Si Sanphet is a historic site in Ayutthaya, Thailand. It is believed to have been constructed in as in the year 1448 as the king's own private chapel. It is also said that the palace grounds were donated by King Borommatrailokanat as a setting to build a royal monastery and the royal palace has been believed to have been shifted further to the North. There have not been any monks in the Wat and it has been reserved only for Kings. The Wat has been used as a setting for regal festivities and to conduct royal rituals. It has also been used as a burial ground of the remains of the King and the members of the royal family and the three massive bell shaped structures at the site are still very much intact. The main vihara at the setting is said to have housed The 55 feet tall bronze standing Buddha statue was originally covered in gold in 1500 during the reign of the 9th king known as Ramathipodi. It was referred to as Phra Si Sanphet. Even though the original Buddha statue is no longer there, the place is named after that image. **End Summary** Topics: Wat Phra Si Sanphet]]> Bangkok Cruise Tour]]> Bangkok Cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Wat Mongkhon Bophit â A Landmark in Ayutthaya

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:47:24 -0500

The Wat Mongkhon Bophit is a temple situated to the south of Wat Phra Si Sanphet and the Royal Palace ruins in Ayutthaya. It is famous for the Phra Mongkhon Bophit, which is a giant bronze statue of the Buddha, sitting in meditation. The metal sculpture has drawn comparisons to the Buddha statue in Wat Phanan Choeng. Measuring nearly seventeen metres in height, the statue was originally placed outside the Grand Palace, which is found to the east, but was relocated upon the orders of King Songthom. He also had a mondop (a pillared hall or pavilion) built to contain the statue. However, during the reign of King Phra Chao Sua, the mondop was destroyed in a fire started by a lightning storm. The fire also damaged the spectacular statue. Another structure was built to house the statue, and the bronze statue itself underwent some reconstruction. The Fine Arts Department carried out extensive re-constructive work on the sculpture in 1957, closely following the original design, and the Buddha statue was entirely covered in gold in 1990, to celebrate the 60th birthday of the Queen. **End Summary** Topics: wat mongkhon bophit]]> bangkok cruise tour]]> bangkok cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Yoga Retreat In Maldives â Unite the Mind and Body

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:35:04 -0500

Consisting of nearly 1200 coral islands forming twenty six coral atolls, Maldives lies to the southwest of India. The country is famous for its amazing beaches, historic sites and friendly locals, all of which make it one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Surrounded by the warm, friendly waters of the Indian Ocean, the beaches of Maldives are all terrific places for scuba diving and other water related activities. The country's extensive coral reefs support a variety of aquatic life, from colourful angel fish and clown fish to giant manta rays and even whale sharks. Some of the planet's best diving spots are located here, and tourists should not pass up the chance to go scuba diving in Maldives. Scuba diving at night is especially exciting, and increases the chances of meeting sharks. Other adventure water sports include jet skiing, wind surfing, para gliding and kayaking. Adventure lovers will be delighted to find that Maldives is a place of non-stop excitement and high octane fun. However, the laid back beach island does not disappoint those who want a much quieter vacation either. **End Summary** Topics: yoga retreat in maldives]]> maldives resort]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Luxuriate in the calming lifestyle of the Maldives

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:20:03 -0500

The lifestyle you witness in the Maldives will differ according to whether you are in one of the thousands of islands or in one of the luxury resort islands. The islands of Maldives have a long history with influences from many different ethnicities, religions and regions. Originally a Buddhist country due to its influence from India and Sri Lanka, the country is now an Islamic country with Sunni Muslims due to the influence of the Arab nations and Egypt. Looking at the physical attributes of the Maldivian people, one can easily see the influence the country has had from many different regions of the world as the people from various islands look, speak and act according to which region they have most been influenced by. South East Asia plays a big role as does the Middle East and Africa. These contributing factors have led to the varied lifestyle seen among the islanders. However when island hopping what is most prominent is the easy and laidback lifestyle adopted by those who are content with their life on an island. **End Summary** Topics: maldivian lifestyle]]> visiting maldives]]> maldivian people]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Wat Khunaram - The temple that displays the mummified statue of a monk

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:17:15 -0500

Wat Khunaram temple is home to one of the most remarkable sightings of a mummified Buddhist monk who passed away nearly two decades ago. The mummified corpse of this Buddhist monk, who entered a spiritual life at the age of 50 is displayed in a meditating position, just as he was at the time when he passed away. It is said, that his body simply did not for unexplained reasons, undergo the normal process of decomposing and therefore his relatives and friends made his corpse lie in a glass casket in an upright posture as he was found. Wat Kuunaram can be found between Na Muang waterfalls and Hua Thanon district in Ko Samui and is mostly known for this famous mummified monk, who was in real life known as the Luang Por Daeng Piyasilo. The temple complex, which is an admirable construction and can be visited without a fee, consists of two temples, the smaller one of which houses the monk’s remains. The next larger one is beautifully crafted and together they manage to project an unusual but unique temple which can be visited free of charge. **End Summary** Topics: wat khunaram]]> koh samui resort]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

The vivacity of the Festivals of Maldives

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:52:18 -0500

If it’s not the beaches it’s those jubilant festivals. Whatever it is, Maldives always has some attraction to keep its steady influx of tourists excellently entertained. What’s more they themselves derive much amusement out of these festivals that take place right around the year. The festivals, at least most of them have a religious basis or origin but have evolved into national events joined by all communities, not just the majority. Needless to say these sun kissed islands and golden beaches are excellent venues for any function or item be it serious or religious or simple fun and frolic. The Ramadan festival takes a special place and is held in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Gifted with the longest holiday in the annual calendar the event sees the communities feasting and getting ample pleasure from either a traditional game or music and dancing that includes both modern as well as traditional features. From among other religious events ‘ Kuda Id’ also is a promising event that takes place over three days which are considered public holidays. **End Summary** Topics: Festivals of Maldives]]> Maldives Island Resort]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Memorable Underwater Wedding Ceremonies on Valentine's Day

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:49:26 -0500

Everyone planning to tie the knot wants their special occasion to be an unforgettable one and to celebrate it in the best possible way so that it will be narrated in tales through generations to come! Therefore, many couples all over the world go the extra mile to make their day special in a variety of ways. However, those looking for something truly unique need not look further than Thailand. Those who are planning to celebrate their nuptials in the month of February can head to Thailand since that is where the underwater wedding ceremonies take place every Valentine’s Day. Thus, every February a large number of couples dressed in their wedding attire dive to the bottom of the sea to get married and what better time than Valentine’s Day to celebrate this special event! These underwater weddings have even entered the world famous Guinness World Book of Records and it keeps on attracting more and more happy couples who are not just tying the knot, but also those looking to renew their marital vows during a holiday in Thailand. **End Summary** Topics: underwater wedding ceremonies on valentine's day]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Than Sadet-Ko Pha Ngan National Park - a treasure-trove of natural and wilderness

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:38:10 -0500

Than Sadet-Ko Pha Ngan National Park is a nature park that is located in the Koh Phangan region of Thailand. The park was set up on the 31st of December, 1983 and originally it covered an area of 39.12 square kilometers. It was expanded to the present size in February 1999. The park has been named after Than Sadet meaning Royal River and this river forms the biggest waterfall in the islet. A number of kings have visited it and amongst them King Rama V stands out as he liked it very much and visited it as many as fourteen times. This river meets the sea at Than Sadet Bay, and it is also a much loved spot for visitors as the sandy beach is a great spot for visitors to the park to relax and have a good time. The land here is largely mountainous and there are a number of islands in the vicinity as well. The forest is also home to the highest peak in the island and it rises 627 meters above sea level. In the forest there are numerous flora and fauna to explore as well. **End Summary** Topics: Than Sadet-Ko Pha Ngan National Park]]> Koh Phangan Resorts]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Travel back in time at Plern Wan

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:26:01 -0500

Tourists come to Thailand searching for the exotic and the natural. At Plern Wan, one can expect to find just that as it is the country’s very first vintage eco village, thereby creating history. It is situated on a site that spans around three acres and is located at Hetkasem Road in Hua Hin. Here the visitor can expect to travel back in time to the 1950s as it provides the tourist with the experience of living in the region at that period of time. Thus, it serves as s a living museum showcasing the lifestyles of the people and their houses as they were characteristic during the era. Visitors will also find shops selling plastic toys that were commonly used by children at that time and similar attractions. The massive wooden entrance to the Plern Wan cannot be missed by anyone who is passing by and once visitors step in they are sure to be transported to another era. In the evenings the setting takes the atmosphere of a fair, and guests will also be able to observe a ceremony at a temple as it must have taken place in the past. **End Summary** Topics: plern wan]]> hua hin hotels]]> hua hin resorts]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Shopping in Male â A Shopping Paradise in an Island Paradise!

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:23:58 -0500

A country where there are more than a thousand islands, Maldives, offers more than just a beautiful beach backdrop for your photographs. It offers an exciting shopping experience. Being the capital of the country, Male offers an exciting range of shopping arcades and malls to choose from. If the golden beaches drove you to the verge of insanity by their beauty, beware the unassuming dots of islands in the Indian Ocean can send you wild with their shopping opportunities! It is like an all-year round shopping spree with buyers frantically purchasing all the little knick-knacks that catch their eyes before someone else beats them to it. Male offers so many choices of goods to be purchased, from handicrafts to cosmetics, from handbags to electronic items and from clothing to perfumes, all at affordable prices and all of this under one roof. To satiate your hunger pangs while one engages in the calorie busting exercise of shopping, amidst all the other consumer durables one can find some mouth-watering, yummy delights, like local fruits, home-made goodies and sweet meats. If at a bazaar, the vendors on the streets and roadside eateries are good options to try out. **End Summary** Topics: shopping in male]]> maldives shopping]]> maldives activities]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

The much awaited Phuket International Blues Rock Festival

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:11:40 -0500

The Phuket International Blues Rock Festival needs no introduction to its diehard fans and this year the festival is all set to go on board in February. The Bangtao beach off the northwest coastal stretch of Phuket, Thailand is anticipating a number of popular artists and their smashing performances. Needless to say, the festival draws a lot of international artists from many continents to perform at this amazing coming together of incredible music fantasies. The show is scheduled to start with a warm up session and in each day of the three, it is planned to commence at sunset and run well into the night. Even with its glossy exterior and glamour, the show has much soul and depth within. The donation of money for children’s education has been one persistent agenda of the show. In addition, the record breaking success of 2011 means the show has been gathering momentum since its inception. This year too, the diversity of artists extends into new regions and countries. Also by popular demand, the show brings back some of last year’s artists with different and totally revamped performances to match the expectations of their incredible fan base. **End Summary** Topics: Phuket International Blues Rock Festival Phuket Resort]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Rekindle Wedded Bliss in Fantasy Nuptial Destination Maldives

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:06:59 -0500

Often described as one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations the island collective of Maldives is a delightful corner of Asia that witnesses wedding ceremonies on its scenic locales every day of the week. As the venue of choice for the globe’s affianced the resplendent nation is also gaining a reputation as the locale to beat for wedding vow renewals. Having said “I Do” in the conventional way the first time round, happily married couples who are hoping to pledge their eternal devotion once more are opting for an island style wedding that is as exotic as the destination itself. Regardless of whether the ceremony takes place during the magical hours of dawn or at dusk when the atmosphere is enveloped by an orange tinged sunset, Maldivian wedding ceremonies offer a much needed tropical twist to the celebrations. Couples who dream of recommitting to one another on a sun-kissed beach, a sailing dhoni, under a palm tree or even beneath the ocean floor can have their pick at the wide variety of ceremonies on offer. **End Summary** Topics: renewal of vows in paradise]]> attractions in maldives]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

A Sporting Good Time in Maldives â Eco Sports in Maldives

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:47:10 -0500

Maldives, a collection of islands, is well known as a tropical paradise. It has many wonderful beaches, lovely scenery, clear blue ocean waters and a thriving underwater eco-system. All these factors have contributed to the Maldivian islands also being one of the best locations for aqua sports and recreational activities. A category of sports that is rapidly gaining fame in the Maldive islands is Eco Sports. Eco Sports offer a great deal of fun and recreation, while also demanding a certain amount of skill from those engaging in them, and therefore are an excellent form of enjoyment and refreshment. There are many hotels and diving centres in Maldives that offer Eco Sports, which give everyone the opportunity to partake in these sports. Due to the scenic beauty and the magnificent beaches of the island nation, these sports always are a great way to take a break from stress and have pure fun and satisfaction. One of the top Eco Sports of the Maldives is catamaran sailing. Catamaran sailing, unlike normal sailing, is sailing on a yacht with 2 hulls, making the whole experience more stable and relaxing. **End Summary** Topics: eco sports in maldives]]> attractions in maldives]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Beer Pints from All Over the World â The London Drinker Beer and Cider Festival

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:42:47 -0500

Two of the world’s most popular varieties of alcohol are beer and cider. No matter where you may be in the world, nothing beats a chilled beer with a bite to eat, when you need to just relax or wind down for the day. This malt beverage, also responsible for making those stepping out of bars and pubs walk a little bit wobbly, is a drink that is meant to be enjoyed and deliver a refreshing taste, giving the drinker a subtle yet relaxing high. For all those who enjoy the taste and effect of the beverage, come March, there is but one place to be if you are to witness the largest gathering of beer manufacturers from all over the world. That place is the annual London Drinker Beer and Cider Festival, a festival dedicated to the fine malt flavours of the popular drink, and for perfectly seasoned ciders. Taking place in March each year, the London Drinker Beer and Cider Festival spans for 3 glorious days, and attracts a large number of beer and cider manufacturers from all over England and Europe. **End Summary** Topics: festivals in london]]> things to do in london]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Lodi Gardens â A Fine Blend of Nature and Architecture

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 07:09:45 -0500

New Delhi, the capital city of India is believed to be one of the oldest cities in the world with over 5,000 years of history. The capital is divided into two parts; the Old Delhi and New Delhi. The city was planned and established as the capital of the country by the British in 1911, as India was under the British rule at the time. Therefore, the metropolis exhibits the influence of 20th century British architecture in its government buildings. The capital has attracted people from all over the country and is today a multi cultural city. Therefore you will see numerous holidays and religious celebrations in the region which originate from different states in India. Lodi Gardens is a charming place to visit while in the city. This is a garden which spreads over 90 acres. This unique garden contains Mohammed Sha’s Tomb Sikander Lodi’s Tomb, Bara Gumbad tomb and an adjacent mosque which displays 15th and 16th century architecture. The garden also contains many beautiful plants and flowers which bloom mainly during February and March, and also attracts numerous birds. **End Summary** Topics: lodi gardens]]> travel to india]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Go Back to the Times of Ancient China - Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:28:04 -0500

China, a nation which has a history dating back to the 3rd Century BC, is one which has a rich and vibrant heritage, full of age-old traditions and customs. Throughout, people have marveled at the architectural skill, culture and lifestyle of the Chinese people, which goes on to show the richness of the Chinese history. However, in the 21st century with development and urbanization fast spreading throughout China, the ancient beauty of China is steadily diminishing. Yet one attraction that still preserves the age-old Chinese buildings, traditions and lifestyles, is the Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Located in the suburbs of Shanghai, the Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is one of the picturesque cities in China, and seems to have not been touched by the modern changes of China. The township sits between the Dianshan Lake and the Dian Mountain, and is therefore a waterside city, which has thus been called Shanghai’s Venice. Throughout the city’s 1700 year long history, the Zhujiajiao Ancient Town has been marveled at for its beautiful “fan” shape, rustic look and its amazing ancient architecture. This settlement also boasts of a beautiful environment and the scenic beauty of the sparkling lake and the Dian Mountain. **End Summary** Topics: zhujiajiao ancient town]]> attractions in shanghai]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Hong Kong Film Festival- Witness the cinematic genius of Asiaâs rising and established film makers

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:27:56 -0500

The area of Hong Kong known as Kowloon is one of the most urbanized parts of the city and offers a host of activities ranging from shopping to business. As one of the most developed cities in all of Asia, Hong Kong is a center for the arts such as film making. As a result, the Hong Kong Film Festival, being the premier film festival in Asia, attracts talent from many nations and displays the up and coming talent that exists in Asia. The Hong Kong Film Festival was organized by the Hong Kong Urban council in 1977, and showcased various world cinema pieces. From then on, the festival grew steadily till 1979, where a standard showcasing of Hong Kong retrospective and modern cinema along with international and Asian cinematic pieces, propelled the Festival to the status that it holds today. Guests that attend the Festival can expect the cream of the crop in terms of cinematic works to be offered. The festivals committee displays unmitigated dedication in its selection of movies, ensuring that attendees of the festival return time and time again. **End Summary** Topics: Hong Kong Film Festival]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Fantastic shopping in Hong Kong

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:21:04 -0500

For the compulsive shopper, Hong Kong is truly the place to be as the city has anything and everything one wants to buy ranging from designer goods, clothes, shoes bags and accessories, to electronic goods, mobile phones and accessories as well as antiques and other knick knacks to take home from a wonderful shopping expedition. Shopping malls, designer stores, flea markets and shopping districts… this city has them all, thus catering to the luxury item buyer right down to the traveller on a shoe string looking for a souvenir to take back home. Among the many areas where various goods can be purchased from, Hollywood Road and Upper Lascar Row are well known for antique items that will look great and add character to any type of household or business. Sham Shui Po and Wan Chai are the two must visit spots for anyone in search of video games as all sorts of games from yesteryear to the latest game in town can be found at a bargain price here. In addition Causeway Bay, Kowloon and Tsim Sha Tsui have a large number of computer shops that sell computers and laptops from almost all brands imaginable. **End Summary** Topics: shopping in hong kong]]> attractions in hong kong]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Celebrating Visual Excellence and Creativity â Hong Kong Independent Short Film and Video Awards

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:18:21 -0500

Hong Kong, one of China’s Special Administrative Regions, is a land which has a vibrant history and culture, along with a colorful and spirited society. This highly urbanized state is quickly emerging as one of the most developed and cultural states in Asia, thereby attracting many foreign visitors and tourists. There are many fascinating aspects about Hong Kong, and one such aspect is its booming film industry. Being one of the top Chinese film making states, the city-state’s cinema industry has become a hub of creative Chinese film-making. One of the most important and significant nights of the local film industry is the Hong Kong Independent Short Film and Video Awards, which celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of Indie films and videos. Since its inception in 1992, the Hong Kong Independent Short Film and Video Awards (IFVA) have served as a competitive platform for film-makers to be recognized for their skill and dedication, and has now become a popular event in Asia. In 2002, IFVA introduced the Asian New Force category into the list of awards, with the intention of discovering talent and unique skills in film-making in all regions of Asia as well, giving IFVA an international aspect. **End Summary** Topics: hong kong independent short film and video awards]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.