Bali – Land of Ritual and Ceremony

Bali is the the land of a thousand temples and a thousand festivals, where religious adherence to a large number of rituals are an integral part of everyday life. A combination of traditional Hinduism and local indigenous beliefs, Balinese Hinduism has a rich tradition of both small and large ceremonies that commemorate everything from the loss of a tooth to the warding off of evil spirits. There are five distinct Hindu Balinese rituals such as the Dewa Yadnya, temple festivals that deal with the worship and reverence of the gods; and Buta Yadnya, which involves ritual sacrifice to allay demonic spirits. Others include Rsi Yadnya, rites honouring preists; Pitra Yadnya, rites relating to death; and Manusa Yadnya, rites to cleanse the inner soul of sin.

Among the major festivals in Bali are the Galungan, a major feast celebrating the annual descent of all the Gods to the earthly realm, followed ten days later by the Kuningan ceremony. Other big festivals are the Nyepi, an annual day of silence on the Hindu-Balinese New Year; Saraswati, a day devoted to Dewi Saraswati, Goddess of knowledge and literature; and the temple festival of Odalan, an annual ceremony of the construction of a temple based on the 210 day Balinese calendar – due the the huge number of temples in Bali there are several Odalan festivals taking place throughout the the island on any given day.

Another important ritual in Balinese culture is the cremation of the departed. An integral part of Balinese life, cremation is a cheerful and communal affair where an entire village comes together in an elaborate ritual whose ultimate goal is placing the ashes of the departed in the sea. This act signals the final separation of soul (roh) from earthly body.

Many visitors to Bali have fallen in love with various ceremonies that celebrate creation both on a grand cosmic scale and on a more intimate personal scale. Some visitors have even opted to remain in Bali, a faraway island paradise where people take the time to celebrate the gods in heaven and the cycle of everyday life on earth – something lacking in today’s fast paced, spiritually bereft world.

Belize – Cultural Melting Pot

The word “Belize” brings to mind the images of unbelievably clear turquoise waters with fabulous beaches, lush green jungles, along with the breathtaking Mayan ruins. But this small nation is also proud of its diverse culture. Here one can find a unique mixture of influences of various cultures and people from various parts of the world.

Rich Diversity of Culture

In the distant past, Belize witnessed many territorial wars where inhuman enslavement of people of various ethnicities took place. But this marred past gave birth to a country brimming with cultural diversity and a mixed population with diverse origins and roots from across the globe with only a longing for harmony and freedom.

Some of the ethnic and national groupings that complete the picture of Belize are:

– Belize Creole, a mixture of African and European origin
– Garifuna, a mixture of African and Carib origin
– Mestizo, a mixture of Native American and European origin
– Mopan Maya
– White, which comes from British descendants and American retirees
– Arabs
– Asian from the Chinese, Taiwanese, Korean and Indian inhabitants.
– Mainland African, especially inhabitants from Nigerian origin

All these ethnic groups try their level best to preserve their own ethnic divergence and their distinct uniqueness.

Music

Soothing and mesmerizing notes of Garifuna music is part of every festive occasion of Belize. The sound of Garifuna music is quite similar to Afro-Caribbean. There are other more popular melodic variants, known as Paranda and Brukdown which the locals love to hymn a lot.

Apart from folk music, modern style of music like Rap, Hip-hop, Heavy Metal and Rock are also popular amongst the youths. To get a taste of the local music, one must definitely plan a visit to the local nightclubs where one can hear both Belizean and international artists.

Art

Without the mention of drama and acting, a description of the Belizean culture remains incomplete. All throughout the year, there are a number of plays hosted at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts and the George Price Center. The true culture of Belize can be seen through the authentic oil and water paintings, color prints, and art crafts displayed at the Fine Arts Gallery. These talents of the local Belizean artists portray the life of Garifuna, the Creole, and ancient Maya.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Belize is a cultural smorgasbord as it is as varied and rich as the several cultures that together make up Belize. Their way of cooking is quite similar to that of the UK, the USA, Mexico and the Caribbean. Rice and beans play a very dominant role in almost all the meals, be it breakfast or dinner. While most of the foods are complemented with chicken, pork, beef, fish or vegetables, it is the coconut milk and fried plantains that add a tropical flavor to any dish. Many of the luxury resorts in Belize offer these famous foods such as tamales, panades, meat pies, escabeche, chirmole, and garnaches in their menus.

Really, this little Central American country of Belize is the most unique and fascinating place to visit. And from the tourism point of view, this small country has got world class facilities. There are many well-known hotels and all inclusive resorts in Belize to make your journey, a memorable one.

To get the best deal out of your vacation, it is better to take the expert advice of a reputed travel planner, so that you can experience enjoy a tension free vacation with your family or friends. From booking your rooms to selecting good all inclusive resorts in Belize to planning a trip to any of the popular destinations, they will do everything to make your holiday in Belize, a memorable one.

American, Continental, US Air, Delta, and Taca Airlines have daily Belize departure flights of about two hours from several U.S. cities to Belize islands.

With its favorable weather, any time of year is a great time to plan your next Belize vacation.

A Visit To The Desert With Maximum Benefits

Deserts in Dubai have been known for their activities. Locals and tourists often visit Dubai deserts to keep themselves entertained. There are very less deserts in the world which are known for their authenticity and Dubai deserts are one of them. Their natural charm and unmatched entertainments attract tourists from different parts of the world. It is a great fun to visit these deserts with family and friends.

Just imagine if you could be a part of Dubai desert safari tour while paying less! Will it not be exciting? Recently you will come across many such offers which will tempt you more to visit deserts. But be sure that the company you are dealing with offer quality service. Many people have had bad experiences when they booked tickets for fewer prizes or with some offers. While others who were smart enough to choose the right company could enjoy quality service and very less to pay. Don’t simply look at the offer and run to book the tickets make thorough research and then choose a company. When leading Dubai travel services come up with offers then it makes sense to trust them.

Desert Safari Dubai by One World Travels is one of the established travel companies in Dubai. Recently they have a new offer for all their customers. On booking tickets for six people you get one ticket absolutely free. Since the offer is given by a reputed company, people are rushing in to reserve their tickets. When this free ticket comes along with amazing service, breathtaking activities, wonderful environment and mouthwatering cuisines, it makes a perfect trip.

7 Best Countries for Adventure Sports

South Africa

Be it the gilded grasslands of Botswana’s Okavango Delta or the dazzling Mediterranean shoreline of Tunisia, Africa has a hoard of adventure activities on offer. As wide and varied it is geographically, it offers limitless prospects for adventure travel of all kinds – from diving and rafting, whitewater to mountain-climbing and trekking.

For some reason however, adventure in South Africa equates with Safari Travel. It is the best-known area for safari in the country is Eastern Transvaal. It is an uninterrupted stretch of pampas lengthening for approximately 400 miles along South Africa’s northeastern border.

South Africa’s small parks have activities on offer and attractions unique to their particular region. In Natal you will find parks of the Drakensberg Mountains that tender opportunities to trekkers, climbers and birdwatchers. Royal Natal National Park and the Natal Drakensberg Park are similar places filled with fun and excitement.

Also in Natal you will find a cluster reserves, including Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park. These comprise of a lovely territory of savanna and jungle. Hluhluwe Umfolozi is known for large numbers of rhino and Nyala.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is well-known for its volcanic landscape and great adventure sports.  Rafting on the white waters of Ayung and Unda rivers or even snorkeling, ocean rating or racing in the boats at jet speed; you dream it and Bali has it on offer.

Nepal

Nepal is a big name as far as mountain climbing goes. After all it is home to the world’s uppermost peak Mount Everest. But that is not the only place in Nepal where travelers go to. Nepal has got a lot more to offer than mighty Everest and its adjoining peaks. This Himalayan kingdom also offers challenges in form of Annapurna trek, paragliding, wildlife jungle safaris and rafting.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Reef is magnificent as there are tremendous opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive and surf. The marine life here is mind boggling and it is a perfect place to body surf and kite surf. The regions most popular destinations are the Whitsunday Islands including Hamilton Island, Port Douglas and Cairns.

Croatia

This is a famous rafting destination. It has Grade 3 and 4 rafting and kayaking available on rivers. The surge through lush forest and sea kayaking on the coast are some of the perfect places to paddle. If you are out here to try something different then you can opt for a lunge into the Adriatic’s necropolis of vessels or clamber limestone cliffs or even sail between 1200 islands for that matter.

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

These highlands are dream destinations for mountain bikers and hikers. The lochs around the castles, Highland Cows and violet heather in the dreamy Scottish Highlands are spectacular picturesque places to experience the beauty of the country. You can also set off north on the West Highland Way from Glasgow to Fort William or discover Scotland’s foremost national park- Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

Vancouver, British Columbia – Canada

Few cities in the world our blessed with great geographical location. Very few have close proximity to an ocean, rivers, lakes, and mountains, and even fewer can have residents and visitors with activities such as climbing, kayaking, hiking, backpacking and several other exciting and fun filled activities.

Upcoming Adventure Sports Destination:

India: India is one of the upcoming adventure destinations in the world which is ready to make an effect in the near future. Many adventure sports await the trekking enthusiast in India. Indian mountain ranges offer marvellous & enthralling trekking routes. In the gigantic arena of the Indian Himalayas & Karakorams, there are unbounded opportunities for trekking, river rafting, skiing, and mountaineering tours. Between this tempting amphitheatres, the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, occupy the innermost place, which is the favourite destinations for most of the trekkers. The thrill of absolute adventure tours in India is amidst the world’s most stunning places.

Attractive off season Shimla Holiday Packages by marigold Cottages

For people wishing to witness the perfect blend of tranquility and modern life, Marigold Cottages is now offering budget friendly Shimla holiday packages. Off-season packages of Marigold Cottages aim at increasing the occupancy and enabling people to explore and travel Shimla at a lower price. This package will offer accommodation of two nights and three days amidst the panoramic view of greater Himalayas. Welcome drink, breakfast, lunch and dinner are available during your stay. You will find tea and coffee maker in all rooms of Marigold cottage. Facilities of in-house recreation, free of cost staying for kids under five years age and a massive 30% discount on pool tables are some of the unique advantages of this off-season Shimla holiday package offered by Marigold Cottages.
Duplex cottages and studio apartments are available in Marigold Cottages. These cottages are simply a paradise for vegetarians. If you are choosing duplex cottages, you will have facilities like two luxurious bedrooms equipped with all modern facilities, private garden, kitchen facility, valley viewing etc. These are ideal options if you are holidaying with kids. In studio apartments you have facilities like ground floor accommodation, kitchen facility and all modern equipments. They are ideal for senior citizens. 
For people interested in adventurous sports, Shimla holiday packages offered by Marigold Cottage will be an experience for life time. You will have access to trekking, river rafting and walking through hilly villages of Himachal. These packages can be booked online. Marigold Cottages offer secured gateway for your money and information.