Do It Go

After two sybaritic nights at Oberoi just outside Jaipur and a night in Jaipur proper, we cancelled our flight to Udaipur so we can drive there. We contacted our travel agent to arrange different resevation days at one of the Udaipur five star hotels with which we are booked. We first drove to Pushkar. Pushkar is small, so it was easy to explore in a car and had some fantastic shopping. We loved the bargaining part with all the various vendors, that was totally fun. But, we decided we needed our own personal guide and we managed to find the perfect driver, escort and interpreter. He was our dream come true for all of the rest of our travels.
 
We got caught up in a wedding parade and were coverd with sweet smelling leys byt the groom’s brother. It was night time and suddenly, all the lights go out in Pushkar. Our wonderful interpreter pushed us into a shop. We asked what was going on and he saved us from walking into exploding firecrackers. Apparently, something that happens after a wedding parade. We were starving, so he found us a fabulous pizza joint, funny that, a pizza and not India food. Our interpreter really did know us better than we knew ourselves, we didn’t realize we were craving different food other than Indian fare with which we’ve only had since we’ve been hear.

 
The next morning, our personal guided had us visit a holy tank and we got blessed. Then he saved me again, I almost walked into a cow. My husband was treated to the best barbar shop ever. He said he had never had a better shave and hair cut. I have to agree, his hair cut looks smashing.  Our personal guide could go all the way to Udaipur with us and he even offered to guide us around there also. We couldn’t resist, he was so marvelous and we got spoiled by him in the few days we knew him. He was an extra expense we thought was well worht breaking our budget for. We decided that from now on we will only travel by car hire and with our own personal guide.

Tags: hotels, Udaipur
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Travelling back to the place where I was born, Punjab, to show my grandchildren their heritage brought back so many memories. I know longer have any relations in this region between Pakistan and India, so I had to book a room in one of the Punjab hotels for the duration of my stay.

I told my grandchildren that a generation ago, the turban was the crowning glory of all Punjabis. It didn’t matter if you were a Muslim, a Hindu or a Sikh. The Muslims and the Hindus have stopped wearing their turbans, but it remains an article of faith for Sikhmen whose religion forbids them to cut their hair.  My grandchildren really liked the idea on never cutting their hair. I don’t blame them, the way my daughter cuts their hair is a crime. But, anyway, I continued to tell them about the kurta, a long straight-cut loose shirt teamed with pyjamas which are a loose baggy salwar, a kind of sarong called a loongi or sometimes a tehmat makes up the traditional dress of men. My grandchildren also liked the idea of wearing pajamas as regular daytime clothes.

In the winter, I told them, the Pujabi wears colorful sweaters which wives and mothers are very skilled at making. Then a blanket finishes the ensemble. But, when the urban, educated Punjabi goes to work, he will wear a shirt and pants, or even a suit just like the Westerns wear. My grandchildren wondered why wear a suit when you can wear a blanket? I pointed out to them the traditional Punjabi shoe, called juttis. It seems the juttis has retained its popularity with both the rural and urban Punjab man. I and my grandchildren can see why, they are elegant and comfortable.

Now, for the Pujab woman, it’s hard to tell if she’s Hindu, Sikh, Muslim or even Christian by what she wears. They all dress in salwar topped with a kameez, a garment that can be fitted like a dress loose like the kurta, and accessorized by a rectangular scarf 3 meters long called the chunni or sometimes called duppatta. My grandchildren didn’t know why the women didn’t all want to look different. I smiled at my grandchildren and told them that they are most fortunate to have the freedom to wear what they please, well as free as my daughter allows.

Tags: Dressing Punjab Style, hotels, juttis, kurta, salwar
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Located on the banks of the Yamuna River in India, Delhi is the second largest city in India and the eighth largest city in the world. With a population of almost 16 million people, this metropolitan city is Delhi. The official name is National Capital Territory of Delhi. The city boasts of income levels higher than average. Due to the major political, commercial and cultural influences, Delhi has become quite the cosmopolitan city. There are ancient and exquisite buildings, such as the world’s tallest freestanding brick minaret, the Qutub Minar, and the Humayun’s Tomb built in 1560.

When exploring Delhi you will find that is a whole new adventure in itself; it is a maze as you navigate the mansion lined crowded streets. Vehicles of all descriptions are bustling hither and yon, whether it is buses, trucks, rickshaws, carts, cars, they are all going somewhere. So getting where you want to go is definitely part of the excitement. Delhi hotels Asia are another integral part of this adventure. Beautiful, statuesque buildings, richly decorate, these hotels are found throughout the city and are there for your comfort. There are many to choose from such as the world renowned Taj Mahal, The Imperial built in 1931 with its Victorian charm blended with Art Deco, the Oberoi New Delhi or the Maidens Hotel. All offering the finest in amenities, swimming pools and spas, hot tubs, fitness centers, wheelchair accessibility and of course the fabulous restaurants offering mouthwatering cuisine.

There is more than plenty to do in Delhi with all the wonderful museums, forts and monuments, the ornate and breathtakingly beautiful places of worship, exhibits, parks, gardens, art displays, street festivals, shopping. And the nightlife is abundant with the numerous nightclubs and bars, all flashing their festive decorations and bright colors, the hip music for dancing or just plain listening and watching. Rock and rolling or reading, it’s your choice in Delhi.

Tags: Art Deco, Asia, Delhi, hotels
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This past summer season in Canberra, provided wine makers with a few scares, as far as their grapes were concerned.  Canberra is becoming quite a player on the scene of world wide wine, however the heatwaves of the summer past post a threat to the harvest in the fields throughout the country.  It was so hot during their summer, that the schools were closing down do to lack of proper air conditioning facilities.  And many of the most prestigious companies did loose grapes, reports from the vineyards were that some of them experienced losses of up to eighty percent of their entire crops, which adds up to a more than one hundred million dollar loss for the combined vineyards in the state.  However, one Canberra wine maker stated that it was just thesefluctuations in the weather, just these kinds of challenges that make the life of growing grapes exciting.  Elements change the flavors in the wines, and sometimes those flavors appear in the strangest of ways, such as a certain breeze blowing all summer that infuses the flavors of the lavender or roses growing near by.

The growers and makers in Canberra were lucky, and produced a crop of five thousand tons.  A record for the region, and the only region that actually increased production from the previous year.  And many of the region’s wineries that were not so lucky throughout the heat waves and the thunderstorms, have looked to the region in Canberra to replenish the stock that they themselves lost.  That said, this winter is one of the best times to travel to Canberra to taste the wines, and celebrate.  Canberra, Australia hotels book special packages and offer information on the wineries and the festivals.  The Canberra Harvest Festival took place in April, and the winter festivals begin.  The Fireside Festival is underway and will continue through August with entertainment, incredible food, bonfires and of course, the wines of Canberra.  Throughout October, the Murrumbateman Moving Feast always more of the same, indulgence in the fine wines and cuisine of the city, and many tastings held for the public.  Then for two days in November, the 7 and the 8, it is all about Wine, Roses and All that Jazz.  Live jazz in the vineyards, accompanied by food and wine.  The winter is a great time in the vineyards of Canberra.

Tags: Australia, Canberra, fireside festival, hotels, live jazz, Wineries
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Mallorca is one of the four main Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea of the coast of Spain. It is the largest of the four and also the most heavily populated. It has an incredibly diverse culture, which reflects the many influences various societies have had on it throughout the centuries. As with all of the Balearic Islands, the main tourist season is through the summer. Not only does this fill the streets and businesses with tremendous increase in volume, it also creates many part time jobs for a resident that contributes to their annual income. The tourist industry is so regular and stable, that many people can plan on the extra income every year and plan their annual budgets accordingly.

There are so many historic landmarks and areas on Mallorca that it is nearly impossible to visit all of them during a short summer vacation. Many people return yearly, which as been the case for Spanish royalty for centuries. While they have their own summer residents, most people who visit this beautiful island stay in one of the many fine Mallorca hotels. Being an island that is greatly oriented toward tourism, the hotels and many of the businesses and restaurants are aimed at provided the best services possible.

There are many things do and see on this island. A day trip can take you into the heart of the midland where ancient ruins are a prime attraction. There is also a vibrant plant and wildlife that is fascinating to learn about while enjoying the great views. There are fabulous beaches all around the island and different regions are characterized by different sand, water and surrounding geographic aspects. There are many marinas that offer lessons in scuba diving and also have excellent tours available. The inland has some spectacular tour packages as well, and viewing Mallorca from a helicopter can be an incredible experience.

Tags: helicopter, hotels, Mallorca, part time jobs, tourism
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It’s one of the world’s hotspots for the most gorgeous beaches, and it seems only natural that for hotels, Formentera can also offer richness beyond the imagination.  The hotels are known for the generous island hospitality from the staff, the sumptuous amenities, and the sense that one might be staying in one of the most beautiful places on earth.  It could very well be that, as Formentera has long enjoyed a reputation of being one of the best-kept secrets of world travelers in the vault.  Its distance from the mainland of Spain makes it far enough to provide an excellent resting spot, but close enough to maintain a healthy level of international culture.

Some of the world’s biggest celebrities find Formentera to be a wonderland, where they can truly get away from it all and still enjoy the beach.  As supermodel Kate Moss’ preference might suggest, Formentera has a lovely atmosphere of solitude, and the beaches are extremely clean.  The cultural life of the island also has a lot to offer, catering to international guests who know how to party.  This is certainly helping the careers of the young deejays from Moba Sound, who are finding their way into the cultural fabric of the place.  Started by two locals, Gioele Brizio and Dany B., the idea behind Moba Sound is cultural interchange, something that’s definitely natural to the island culture.

Performing and producing all over the Balearic Islands, there is the most activity between Ibiza and Formentera.  Here, Moba Sound collaborate with other artists, work to find acts that they would like to produce, and working as deejays themselves.  They’re creating a very good reputation for themselves, making electronic beats that have new generations of locals and travelers dancing to infectious rhythms throughout the night.  There is always something to do on the island, even with a very small population, and dancing to the world rhythms of Moba Sound will help solidify the connection between the body and the world.

Tags: Deejay, Formentera, hotels, Moba Sound
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When one travels to Dubai, consideration must be placed on the traditional culture, traditional modes of communication and relations.  For example, if one enters one of the restaurants in the five star Dubai hotels, or upon arriving at the home of an Arab for a dinner party, female guests will be taken off to be with the women.  Offers of food or drink should be accepted, as Arabs react to guests in this manner, a very polite and respectful manner, and to turn down and offer, one may be deemed impolite.  Sharing food and drink is an elemental aspect of relationship and friendship in Arab countries.  One of the key phrases to learn should one not speak the language fluently is “Ahlan wa sahlan”.  This means simply, welcome.  When one visits Dubai this will be a phrase heard over and over.

There are other greetings and pleasantries one may learn, as it is always nice to be able to respond when visiting and conversing, or just saying ‘hi’ to those living in the country in which one is spending time.  And in Dubai, should one mispronounce words, no problem, as the people of Dubai are always encouraging when one at least make the attempt to speak the language.  It is important to note however, that while considerations are taken on the part of the Arabs, one must never joke, or profanely use the language as it is their belief that language is God’s words.  Proper respect is given to language throughout the country and one could cause unnecessary offense to take that lightly.

In Dubai, never pop in on an Arab friend.  Warning must always be given in the form of former plans or a phone call, especially if female members are at home.  And once in the home of an Arab friend, avoid complimenting their personal possessions.  Tradition states that should one compliment the possession of the other, the owner is required to give that possession to the one that did the complimenting.  This can make for embarrassing and uncomfortable situations.  And if this intrigues some, be aware that the tradition also states that the correct response for receiving the complimented item, is to return with a gift more valuable than the one you received.  So be careful before you state your admiration for the beauty of your friend’s Rolls Royce.

Tags: Behavior, Dubai, five star hotels, hotels, language, traditions
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The most savvy traveler will always hold a special place in their heart for five-star hotels in New Delhi.  These hotels are a magnificent combination of tradition and dedication, and speak of the best that Delhi hospitality can bring.  The interiors are sumptuous, and suggest an atmosphere of decadence and luxury.  They are places to totally refresh the mind, body, and spirit, and the city is one of the most incredible places on earth to get a sense of perspective again.  The whole human drama plays itself out here every day, and often several times a day.

There is a spectacular sense here that people watching was originated in these streets, or, at the very least, that New Delhi has turned people watching into an art form.  There are multiple languages and cultures that live here, and are carried by human hearts as they move through the city, in a fantastic display of life in the here and now.  There are remarkable local traditions and stories, and in some of the Hindu stories, the place of the monkey god Hanuman signifies devotion, righteousness, and strength.  For many traditional people, the god is present in all monkey forms, and monkeys are creating some interesting situations for the citizens of Delhi.  Rhesus monkeys in Delhi are starting to attack people in droves.  They come looking for food, and their manner of scavenging is rather unpredictable, creating dangerous situations, and even death, as the Deputy Mayor S. S.Bajwa lost his life due to complications from head injuries after being swarmed by rhesus monkeys on his terrace.

Monkeys and humans have always had an interesting relationship, especially when living in close proximity.  It is a long story of negotiations of space, and there are always problems in working it out when the populations start to grow.  But one solution in Delhi is rather new.  Officials are starting to bring in another kind of monkey, langurs, to scare off the rhesus monkeys.  Langurs are a larger, black-face species, that rhesus monkeys are typically terrified of.  The solution is effective for keeping the rhesus monkeys away from where langurs are acting as guards, but the rhesus monkeys are creating new troubles where they are starting to have larger concentration, and the langurs also have their own problems.  The langur’s tail is extremely effective as a weapon, and can actually break the skin.  So there are many who claim that this is merely replacing one problem with another, and the real issue here is a question of ecological balance, which would require a much more complicated set of solutions.

Tags: Delhi, five star hotels, hotels, langurs, Monkey Problem
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For travelers looking for a beautiful holiday on the beach, in a city with a lot of character and history, five-star hotels in Goa should be on the list.  These are fabulous hotels, with a splendid combination of old-world charm and new-world amenities.  Guests will be connected to the world at large with state of the art technologies, and also pampered in the traditions of hospitality that go back many generations.  Goa has a warmth and generosity of spirit that permeates everything.  It is a real travelers paradise, offering beautiful views, a lively urban center, and a complex and complicated history that is evident in the architecture and the decor.  The sense of style is obvious in the interior of the hotels, where tradition meets innovation.

There are many famous people who have passed through Goa at one time or another.  One of its most famous residents was the great expert on India, and Buddhist scholar, Dharmananda Damodar Kosambi.  By all accounts, his was a most fascinating life.  He was born in Goa in 1876, and died in 1947 after deciding to die by fasting.  There is an interesting correspondence between Kosambi and the great M.K. Gandhi about his fasting, where Gandhi continually urged him to desist, but in the end the wishes of the Mahatma were not heeded.  It is an interesting question to ask why he would choose this end for himself, and the answer might be found somewhere in his life.

Dharmananda Kosambi was interested in study and travel from a very early age.  He traveled all over studying both Buddhism and Jainism.  His son, D.D. Kosambi, Jr., would go on to become a very prominent scholar in his own rite.  But Kosambi, Sr., was very interested in studying Buddhism in its original Pali language.  He is one of the great Pali scholars in India, but many of his efforts were fruitless, or at the very least, extremely frustrating.  He would follow ideas all over India, pursuing possible avenues for scholarship in Pali and in Sanskrit.  He taught widely, and in later years, was able to bring his wife and children with him.  There is no doubt that he was extremely devoted as a scholar, and translated many texts that were still widely unknown.  He was also deeply influenced by Marx, and many of his critical studies of Indian culture take on a Marxist perspective.  It is perhaps here that he began to really connect the different strands of scholarship, and he started to examine the colonial legacy left by the Portuguese on his native Goa.  It haunted him, and perhaps was partially what inspired him to become more committed in his religious and political life.

Tags: Dharmananda Kosambi, five star hotels, Goa, hotels
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The traditional dance and music of the Andalusian Gypsies of Spain is the Flamenco.   The roots in this art form come from various cultures, the Moors, the Andalusians and the Gypsies and the dances and the songs have been cultivated over many centuries.  In the early 1,800′s this form of expression became very popular and has since that time, become  widely performed and widely viewed,  many shows being done and seen in the coffee shops, the bars, and the restaurants of the five star Madrid hotels,  and the cafes throughout the entire country.  In the city of Madrid there is a wide variety of shows to see.

One of the most fine and most impressive flamenco shows is performed nightly at the Taberna Casa Patas.  Very well known artists, the musicians and the dancers have performed here in the past, such as Chano Lobato, Remedios Amaya, and La Nina Pastori.  This is a well known venue however is not known to be overrun by tourists, it is a very traditional spot.  Dinner is served before the show begins and throughout the show as well.  Casa Patas is famous for the tapas menu as well as their seafood and steaks, and the house speciality, the tail of a bull.

One of the most established and oldest venues for flamenco is located near the Royal Palace in the older section of Madrid.  This is Cafe de Chinitas and it is set in a palace from the eighteenth Century.  Many of the best, local and international flamenco stars have performed here over the years.  The shows here alternate monthly, and as with the previously stated venue the food here is out of this world.  And then there is the Corral de la Moreria, a venue that began in 1956 and has been known to attract many celebrities, artists and famous sportsman and ever a rock band here and their.  Audience members in the pasts have included the band U2,  the boxing champion Muhammad Ali, Picasso and Frank Sinatra.  It is no wonder as the shows performed here are considered by some to be the absolute best in the world.  These are just three of the many venues that will provide one with a night out of the traditional music, dance and cuisine when traveling through Madrid this summer.

Tags: Famous Flamenco, hotels, La Nina Pastori, Madrid, U2
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There are many opportunities for work in the tourism industry throughout the country of Spain.  Many travel to the city and fund their ‘vacations’ by working in the service industry, such as in the restaurants, bars, or the five star hotels.  Spain is a very laid back and welcoming country, and in most of the cities many of the people and the businesses will give foreigners the opportunities for employment throughout their stay.  And if one is in need of learning the language as well, the people are extremely helpful in teaching one along the way, while still offering employment.  Any traveler from one of the other European countries will find it extremely easy to find work.  There are various regions throughout Spain, and each region speaks with a different dialect, so while most businesses are willing to give outsiders jobs, it goes without saying that should one speak the dialect of a region, finding work becomes much easier.

Due to the tourism, there are opportunities to work in various cities and villages along the coastline.  More than half of the population living in Spain works in the service industry, and many in the country alternate jobs, working in the industry during the season and picking fruit during the off-season.  For those skilled at water activities and sports, there are many positions available, through teaching scuba diving, to surfing, to sailing and windsurfing.  One of the more popular spots for diving are the Medes Islands.  More that 60,000 dives are taken into the waters of the Mediterranean here each year.  Many of the schools located here cater to English speaking tourists, so this may be a better location to find work if one does not speak on of the dialects.

And of course there are the Balearic Islands, which provide a wide range of opportunities for seasonal work.  Many who work on the islands do so while they are taking their own vacations as well.  The club scene in Ibiza is legendary, and the staff in most of the clubs and bars are internationally diverse.  Mallorca has many opportunities for work in the bars and restaurants and tends to be a bit less trendy and more relaxed.  There are many British owned businesses on the islands as well, for those seeking jobs, that are a bit more suited for older people, without the party atmosphere.  In all, this is a great way to travel, especially in these times when vacations may be a bit out of the financial reach of some, they are able to finance vacation time, by working in the vacation spots of Spain.

Tags: Balearic Islands, hotels, Medes Island, Spain, work
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The focus of the Barcelona’s Botanical Gardens is to be of service to the ecosystem and to society.  This particular garden not only showcases some of the most incredible plants of the Mediterranean, but is dedicated to the documentation and conservation of the heritage of the natural world of Catalonia.  This region, and the city of Barcelona in particular, has a long history of botanical traditions, farming and gardening.  Many of the city buildings and five star Barcelona hotels are surrounding by blooming plants year round.  The Botanical Garden’s staff seeks to ensure that these cultural traditions remain.  They provide educational activities for all, from the amateur home gardeners to the scientists that travel to the Garden for lectures and seminars.  Many schools throughout the city take tours and classes throughout the year.  The Garden receives support of the Botanical Institute of Barcelona.  The Garden boasts and large reference library and one of the most extensive collections in their herbarium in all of Catalonia.

The buildings in the gardens were designed by two well known Spanish architects,  Josep Lluis Canosa and Carlos Ferrater.  The genius behind the design for the landscaping was Bet Figueras, and a horticulturalist and a biologist were instrumental as well, Artur Bossy and Joan Pedrola, respectively.  The team had a few aspects to consider, which was the structural layout of the vegetation, and designing that layout to fit withing the mountain that it was being created on.  The result is one of the most incredible gardens in the world.  The winding paths are a perfect way to spend the afternoon.  And the perfect way to be able to see most of the plants of the region, all in one place.  This garden and the research that has been conducted here has influenced all of the cities parks and created a city that is not only one of the most incredible to walk around, but one that has begun to conserve and protect the environment as well.

Tags: Barcelona, Botanical Garden, Catalonia, hotels, spanish architects
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Last November, a giant sand painting was created in Barcelona, Spain.  Luxury hotels,  cafes, and city walls of Barcelona have long been known to provide the street artists with the ‘canvases’ in which to express themselves, artistically, politically, and philosophically.  This sand painting is no different.  The piece is titled ‘Expectation’ and is the work of Barcelona artist Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada.   The artist had a consultant in architect Alex Gimenez Imirizaldu.  The painting is a portrait of United States President Barack Obama.  Rodriguez-Gerada used a graphics system, and a topographical map to plan the piece of art work, before the 2008 elections took place in 2008.  The artist stated at the time that the work was on such a grand scale because of the sense of hope that Obama’s supporters had felt, and that the entire world felt, about the campaign and about the man that Obama is.  Obama had evoked such a yearning for change that extended the boundaries of his own country and affected most all other countries in the world.

Rodriguez used six hundred and fifty tons of colored sand to create the piece that signifies the impact that the election had for the world, the power that was felt in the idea of a man such as Obama, is in modern times and history, without precedent.  The artist’s choice to create this massive mural with sand has symbolic connotations as well.  Many indigenous tribes of the world such as the Monks in Tibet, the Native Americans in the United States and the Aborigines of outback Australia, all practice the art of sand painting during rituals of healing ceremonies.  This is a metaphor very easy to distinguish as the idea of Obama’s leadership created the idea that with him leading the U.S., not only would the U.S. be able to heal, but again, the entire world would also.  There are many examples of street art in Barcelona,  and this is one piece that is most brilliant and astounding.

Tags: Barcelona, Expectation, hotels, Naitive Americans, Obama, Rodriguez-Gerada, Spain
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Elephants symbolize Thailand, they symbolize power and prosperity and grace, fit for a king.  The elephant’s place in the history of Thailand spans the literature, the legend, the folklore of Buddhism and the architecture and art of the entire country.  Many of the buildings including the best hotels Phuket has constructed over the years, was done with the help of these gentle giants.  This is an animal that is highly intelligent, extremely loyal, and has the abiltiy to learn a remarkable number of tasks and commands.  These animals are capable of forming lasting friendships and thus are treated as one of the family when they are owned by private citizens.  The elephant makes no differentiation between kings or paupers, it is the deep connection they are capable of creating with the humans of whom they serve.

The population of the elephants has decreased over the years.  About half the elephants now in Thailand are domesticated with the other half living in the wildlife reserves.  Tourism has become one the only ways for the owners of elephants to make a living currently.  Logging was banned 10 years ago, and the main occupation for the beasts was the hauling of the trees.  Most of the elephants of Phuket now ‘earn a living’ through tourism.  They do so in the safari sector.  Trips are taken through the jungles and and along the rivers, and most of the elephants from other regions have been transported to Phuket for this occupation.  This is beneficial for the owners, as to feed an elephant is quite expensive and the money made from the companies such as the Siam Safari Nature Tours and those treks set up by the Khao Sok National Park,  provide the means to care for the elephants in the way that they deserve to be cared for.

Tags: Buddhism, Elephants, folklore, hotels, Khao Sok National Park, Phuket island, Siam Safari Nature Tours, Thailand, tourism
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The island of Phuket has so much to offer to tourists, that it is easily becoming the most popular, and populous of all the islands in the Andaman Sea.   This island is so impacted by tourism that the financial needs created by the Tsunami in 2004, have been met and the damages have been completed restored.  Much of the reputation for the island comes from the beautiful beaches, among the most popular are Kata, Karon and Patong.  There are a variety of activities from which to choose and a list of accommodations that one will certainly have no problem finding a five star hotel.  Phuket has an incredible Aquarium that houses a large collection of marine life, of salt water and fresh water fish.  They also have quite a collection of sea turtles sure to thrill children of all ages.

There is an exciting park on the island, which is the Crocodile Farm.  This is not only an adventurous activity center, but one that focuses on conservation, preservation and farming.  This park contains exhibits of alligators, crocodiles and elephants, all of which are part of daily shows that happen all week long.  Many liken the shows to the famous Steve Irwin antics and the scared faces and gasps from the audience are evidence that this is one tense but exciting experience.

For those looking for a bit calmer adventure, the Orchid Garden and Thai Village offers many options.  There are shows of boxing,  sword fighting, and elephants, and dancers performing traditional Thai classical moves, dances that represent the various cities of Thailand, but with a focus on those of Phuket.  Much of the rich culture of the country can be experienced here.  And that goes without saying, that traditional Thai food is outstanding.  There are four very fine restaurants located on the property to choose from.  As well as a market place wherein artists sell their crafts, and can be observed as they are working.  This is an all out cultural experience, of the art, the music, the food, and the soul of this amazing island.

Tags: Andaman sea, boxing, crocodile farm, hotels, Phukiet, Thai food
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The Wildlife Sanctuary and the National Parks are just one of the many aspects of the island of Phuket that attracts lovers of nature and tourists from around the globe.  Most of the major and central districts of the city are filled with an assortment of fauna and flora that not many parks and sanctuaries of the world have managed to collect.  Two of the most visited centers on the island, both close to the five star hotels Phuket offers for accommodations and services are the Gibbon Primate Rehabilitation Center, and the Insectarium and Butterfly Garden.

The rehabilitation center was built in 1990, and focuses on saving the wild monkeys from extinction.  This division conducts research on how to best protect wild animals, that are now living in the major metropolitan areas on the island.  Another focus of the team of researchers is the re-introduction of the Gibbons that were bought for pets and domesticated but are not longer wanted, back into their natural world and habitat.  The center is filled with gardens and parks as well, and is a ‘fun’ experience, but an educational experience as well.

The Insectarium and Butterfly Garden is one of the most visited of its kind in all the world.  This too, is a conservation site, that is one of the most splashy and colorful spots on the island.  Most upon entering, are amazed at just how many colors there are out there in the natural world.  This is an educational trip as well, as in the Insectarium, the various species of plants are shown to influence the cycles of life of the various insects, all right in front of your eyes.  The backdrop for these two gardens is the lush tropical rain-forests along the pristine beaches of Phuket.   The native birds will chirp and the waterfalls will fall, and the entire experience is breathtaking and mind-blowing.

Tags: beaches, butterfly garden, hotels, National parks, Phuket, Thailand, tropical rain forests, Wildlife
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Finding the right muse can take a lifetime, but in the meantime the searching of this elusive muse and having them stay in ones life makes for an interesting journey. I had no idea when I met Uni at a friends housewarming party that he would create the winds of poetry to stir within me and pour out and land upon him so beautiful and exacting. The art of flirting boldly found voice when Richard stood behind me in a grocery store checkout line and made for bushings and several attempts at hair fixing. One time, when I was eating in one of the many Singapore Luxury Hotels, my waiter of name I do not remember, made me draw his loveliness on my cloth napkin and write below his manly figure just how much he lights up midnight.

I have had female muses also, like Beverly, her smooth alabaster skin required henna and body-paint blurs that go on for days. My twin sister’s compassion for those who suffer calls me to reach out and encompass all that cross my path with my knowing of healing arts. Renny’s laughter and her joyfulness moved me to coax my body and soul to dance harmoniously with the light of day.

I know you have your muses too. But, I ask you to find the muse in everyone you meet. Even the people you may not like, they are and will be a muse that will bring out from the depth you can not reach by yourself, a beautiful and newness of thought; something wonderfully original and marvellous. If you manage to captivate your muse and make them want to stay with you, then you are blessed with a life filled with awe inspiring days and a warmth that was never known that could be reached and deeply felt every time you open your eyes and see the world as your muse sees the world.

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Offering ample urban delights, lovely beaches, and luxury hotels, Dubai (UAE), is a breed apart.  Situated between old and new worlds, Dubai offers the finest of creature comforts along with the most cutting edge modern delights.  Exquisite beaches and stunning shopping malls are just the beginning here.  Annually, there are a host of festivals, with international film celebrities, rock and roll musicians, and literary giants, participating in the cultural life here.  It is truly an international city, with a focus on developing the local talents, and a keen eye toward global culture.

It may come as no surprise, then, that there is a sports café opening here, by none other than Argentine world football great, Maradona.  Diego Armando Maradona is one of the most visible and famous soccer players  in the history of the Beautiful Game.  Perhaps most well-known for his two goals against England in  1986, goals called, “the Hand of God,” and “the Goal of the Century,” he retired from the game at the ripe old age of 37.

Set to open at the end of the year, The Maradona Sports Café will be modeled on Planet Hollywood-style eating establishments, and will be a lively gallery of world soccer culture, featuring memorabilia from such football giants Zico, Dunga, Garrincha Pele, and of course, Maradona himself.   The chain of cafes will also have large-screen televisions showing some of the greatest moments of football in televised history.

Not simply a living testament to the greatness of football, these cafes also serve a larger, humanitarian purpose.   The soccer great’s brother, Remigio Maradona, is a Permanent Observer on the UN’s Economic and Social Council, and he has arranged to have a portion of the profits here to benefit the battle against global malnutrition.  These new cafes, then, will serve multiple purposes, in promoting and contributing to the cultural life in Dubai, giving football fans a new and exciting place to hang out, and contributing to the betterment of the world at large.

Tags: Cafe, Dubai, hotels, Maradona, Remigio, Sports
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A stunning blend of urban adventures and luxury hotels, Chennai is India’s fourth largest city in terms of size, but number one in hospitality.  With a rising presence in the global technology field, top-notch local sports teams participating in the international sports arena, and of course, beach, plenty of beach, there is something for everyone here.

One of its more intimate attractions is the famous coffee.  Known as Indian filter coffee, or Madras coffee, it’s a local treat that has an international reputation.  This sweet, milky coffee is made with milk and dark roasted coffee beans with chicory.  The coffee beans can be from a wide variety such as Peaberry, Arabica, and Karnataka, among others.  The wide appeal of this coffee comes from its very intricate and complicated brewing process.  There are special machines made expressly for this purpose, and the method of preparing involves two separate concoctions of water, and then mixing the milk and sugar in a very particular manner.

There are many households who will begin their preparations for Indian filter coffee the night before, so that the members of the house can be greeted with this wonderful treat first thing in the morning.  It’s a far cry from setting the timer and putting the grounds in a basket, the way it’s done for the mass-produced coffee makers sold around the world.  This method requires great care, and much attention, so that it is, really, an art form.   Without the great care needed for the preparation of this sensational coffee, the result could be a bitter surprise (pun intended!).  For those who are willing to take the time to learn, the result is fantastic, and there are actually tons of recipes and discussions, and much debate, over how best to prepare Madras coffee.  To become proficient in the art is to enter into a long tradition, one that continues to define the culinary feats of Chennai.

Tags: Channai, coffee, hotels, India, Indian, Madras
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India is known as ‘The Mother of Beads.’ It gets the honor because it is home to three major bead industries, glass, stone and clay for well over 4000 years and began in Arikamedu, India. This region was populated by sophisticated people called the Harappan or Indus Valley Civilization. Back in the day, they exported these gem minerals beads to Mesopotamia, the Levant and then to Egypt. Through the years, bead making centers have changed, but the source for agates and carnelians has always been found in the riverbeds of lower Narmada River.The source of the stones remain the same and also the way in which they are turned into beads has changed very little. Evidence of large-scale drawn-glass beadmaking has been found by archeologits in Arikamedu. Glass was used to create false gems and the production of these glass beads continued with little interruption up to the 17th century, constituting the largest and longest-lived glass bead industry.

The traditional tools to make the beads were handmade bows, a sheep’s knuckle and a bowl of water. In this current century, electricity has been added to a few steps in the grinding and polishing. Also, the technology of the double-tipped diamond drill, but the drill is powered by a ‘hand-driven’ bow. Mass Manufacturing of beads has made the traditional hand-made bead a lucrative business for the bead artisan due to the fact that they are hand-made by the traditional way.

India’s Beads have played a diverse role throughout time, as religious artifacts or a medium of exchange and currency. Beads with blue dots were traded for palm oil. Yellow beads were often traded for gold.  India’s beads also have a significant spiritual meaning. The traditional bead craft is done by women who sit together in the shade protected from the hot afternoons, picking up the beads, one by one to form the tight honeycomb patterns that depict their world. Depicting parrots, peacocks, trees or a lotus flower. Enticing more tourist, not only Mumbai Bombay Hotel have been known allow the trading of beads by the locals in and around their establishment, but at the local farmer’s markets and coffeshops, you will find bartering going on and India’s beads used as trade.

Tags: Beads, Bombay, hotels, India, knuckles, Mesopotamia, Mumbai
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When traveling in Manhattan this summer, those tourists and vacationers will want to leave for walks, from the rooms of the best hotels.  New York City is currently home to the ‘living’ sculptures of Christian Jankowski.  Many who have visited the city, or who live there are quite familiar with the amount of street performers, the musicians and the theater that happens on just about every corner and in every subway station.  One may assume upon looking at Jankowski’s work, that this is just another public performance.  However, these are bronze sculptures, realistic interpretations of those who have performed over the years on the streets.   Jankowksi has been inspired over the years, by these folks, and pays tribute to them for that inspiration.

The three sculptures that are on display currently, were inspired by a trip Janowski had taken to Barcelona, Spain.  Performers there, presented themselves as art, as bronze sculpture.  One in the form of Julius Caesar, another as Che Guevara, and third was a woman, who presented herself as the piece by Salvador Dali, ‘The Anthropomorphic Cabinet Woman’.  These are historical forms, real, and the imagined…as in the Dali sculpture.  Janowski was so moved, that he created replicas of those who were pretending to be sculptures.  Many performers do just the same thing, along Hollywood Boulevard and on the Santa Monica Pier.  Painted and motionless, only to move at the last moment, thoroughly terrifying those walking by.  Janowski’s work will be on display at the entrance of Central Park throughout the summer of 2009.  Central Park contains many famous works by sculptors.  Over the years many have been viewed and become even more well known as they appear in films based in the city.  This is just one of New York’s many sites, that should not be missed.

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For luxury hotels, Singapore is in a dynamite location. An island microstate with a booming economy, Singapore is one of the best city’s in the world to do business. It is also a fantastic location for art. Visual art, music, and performance are all on the rise, and some of China’s most innovative practitioners are working here.

In 2004, a ban was lifted on public funding of performance art in Singapore, and this has resulted in a new wave of young and daring new artists. Mostly coming from art school, they are studied in the contemporary trends of new art, and also devoted to advancing the dialogue among artists within Singapore. This is part of an exciting period of innovation within Chinese art in general. The new generation of Chinese artists is enjoying a rather unprecedented popularity. And, as Chinese citizens are avid art lovers, there is also a great deal of money changing hands over the new works and projects.

One young innovative artist in the Singapore scene, and also coming to her own in international realms, is Chia Chu Yia. Her background is painting, like many artists who move to live forms, and her form is decidedly performance art. Her work takes her body as the object on display, and she uses herself as the mediator between global climate change and her art work. Her performance, then, is decidedly engaged in the display of public identity as a forum to ask elemental questions about the human being in nature in the contemporary world. The body and mirrors, direction and placement, are metaphorical concerns that drive Chia Chu Yia‘s work. Her work, visual art, installation, and live performance, is shown in Singapore and is also traveled to the U.S., Australia, Malaysia, and Peru.

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Given the range of beliefs and customs in Mauritius, hardly a week goes by without a celebration. One not to miss is the Teemeedee, the Tamil, Hindu, fire walking ceremony.  It is held throughout the year to honor to the various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. For the most part the ceremonies are held in December and January. The devotees prepare themselves for this horrifying ordeal by fasting, bathing and praying. They then walk across the red hot coals without any injury whatsoever.  All the time they are being encouraged to get through the fire. There’s lots of cheering and chanting going on. Although this is a local celebration, the majority of the observers are tourists.

The fiery red embers represent the stretched out sari of the vengeful Hindu Goddess, Draupadi. So why is this Goddess so angry? According to the Hindu religion and the Mahabharata epic, Draupadi was the wife of of a chronic gambler. During a rigged game her husband puts her up as collateral for a bet. He loses.  In fact he loses everything he owns ( including his wife). She contests this travesty arguing that no one has a right to own her or use her as payment for  a lost bet.  Despite her outrage, she’s overpowered and is dealt with swiftly and degradingly. The winner of the bet orders her to strip in front of many others and she refuses.  She then loosens her hair and lets it fall down around her to cover her.  Attempts are made to disrobe her and her sari keeps unwinding and unwinding. The more its pulled away the longer it becomes.  It is for this reason that the Hindu Goddess Draupadi becomes ruthless and unforgiving, hence the burning coals. The Hindu temples in Quatre Bornes and Camp Diable (near Riviere des Anguilles) and the Vale (near Goodlands) are noted for this event.

These places are a bit off the beaten path, so if you’re looking for luxury hotels Mauritius, stick to the areas near the coastline. There isn’t much else to do in these areas.

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Mallorca has many attractive cultural and historic elements on the island. Vacationers have a wide and diverse selection of dining and entertainment options. However, some of the most popular island adventures don’t happen on the island itself, but in the beautiful Mediterranean waters that beckon to tourists and locals alike from just off its shore. Scuba diving is just one of the possibilities for exploration. For sightseers, this activity offers a unique view and chance to explore another world. Tourists staying in 5 star hotels Mallorca often enjoy their first scuba diving experience while vacationing at this beautiful island.

Mallorca is an excellent location for experiences scuba divers to enjoy the riches of this sport. It is also the perfect location for beginners or those with moderate experience. There are numerous diving schools on the island and they speak French, English, German, and of course Spanish, to accommodate visitors from around the world. The waters are a great place to practice diving and are very clear in the summer. This gives the beginner an added sense of security, but also contributes to one of the most beautiful diving experiences possible. In the clear waters it is easy to see the beautiful under-water scenery and divers might even come across one of a number of sunken ships. There are different ways to dive and the clear water is conducive to using nothing more than a simple snorkel, or even go without a breathing apparatus.

El Buceo is a diving school that is located about 30 kilometers Southwest of Palma at the Port d’Andratx. It is an excellent school at a beautiful marina and offers many helpful accommodations to students who wish to participate. They are supervised by highly qualified professional divers and offer students the opportunity to make two dives off a boat in Dragonera Nature Park. They also offer free shuttle service to and from the diving-base, and include free coffee for break. The moderately priced lessons are a great investment for this unique opportunity. And the journey from Palma to Port d’Andratx is full of beautiful scenery and great views.

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Valencia is a great Spanish city, full of culture and rich in historic architecture and landmarks. Entertainment is also a well-recognized aspect of the city. It is the third largest city in Spain and tourists are greatly attracted its grandness. The beaches and the city proper have an exuberant nightlife, and an annual festival attracts some of its greatest attention. Las Falles was a local festival that has become famous. It takes place in March of every year and draws multitudes of area residents and also outside guests that fly in just for the festival. The best Valencia hotels are extremely busy every March during the days of Las Falles.

The festival began as a celebration of Saint Joseph, which has become its tradition. There are a few theories as to exactly when and how it got started and one of them begins it in the middle ages. This is an annual event, though preparations and planning for it occur throughout the year. Each section of the city is organized into groups of people, or neighborhood planning committees. They work hard through the year planning various fundraising events and dinners. Most often the dinners will consist of the Paella. Each of the Casai fallers, the neighborhood groups, will create a special falla, which is a sort of torch that will be burnt during the festival.

The La Crema occurs on the final night, which is around March 19^th, of Falles, and is the point at which the torches are burned. This creates a great bonfire that is known as the crema, ‘the burning.’ The burning begins close to midnight, while there is a separate children’s crema that occurs earlier and in a different location. This is a citywide festival and people run through the streets in a frenzied celebration of la crema. There are also numerous street vendors who sell snacks and miscellaneous items. This festival is very similar to carnival festivals and may have begun around the same time. It is definitely an exciting time for tourists to visit the vibrant city of Valencia.

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The city of Goa has many wildlife sanctuaries.  Some are dedicated to various species of the animal kingdom, and some, such as the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary are species specific.   The best time of year to visit any of these outdoor locations is the winter season, which falls between the months of October through March.  The summer season in Goa is sweltering hot, and the monsoon season, although a beautiful time of year, is quite rainy and stormy.  The winter season is also the peak tourist season, so book  accommodations early in four star hotels.  Goa becomes very crowded and the hotels often times are booked to capacity.

Dr. Salim’s Sanctuary is located along the Mandovi River in Goa, and although the smallest, is the most well known in India.  Dr. Salim was a respected ornithologist in India.  There is a large variety of plants and over four hundred different species of  birds in this small sanctuary , of just under 2 kilometers square.  Local species are housed here as well as some of the migratory and exotic as well.  One must obtain permission to visit from the Forest Department.  The sanctuary sits in a mangrove forest, mangroves being one of the best habitats for animals as well as insects and fish.  Just after the monsoon season, the beginning of winter, is the best time to visit as the birds are out and about, and the migratory species have flown in.  One may also catch glimpses of the other species indigenous to the area such as foxes, jackals and crocodiles.

The Cotigoa is located in the southern part of Goa, in the district of  Canacona, and houses various species of the animal kingdom.  Opened in 1969, it is quite expansive, covering almost ninety kilometers square.  It is second in size only to the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary.  In order to travel to this location it will be necessary to hire a driver.  Once there, there are spectacular views from the various towers.  The Talpona River runs through the center of the park, and is one of the spots many of the animals are regularly seen.  This sanctuary also has a center for Wildlife Interpretation which offers lectures and seminars on the plant-life and the wildlife.  The forests are thick here, and offer home to the species such as panthers, bison, hyenas, and eagles.  It is an incredible sight to see.

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India is rich in cultural history and the arts. Dance is one of the most common and relevant aspects of the arts being integrated into one’s daily lifestyle. Classical Indian dance plays an essential role in many spiritual and entertainment oriented performances. The folk dances of India are just as important and are the ones that are incorporated into regular life. Most of the folk dances consist of simple movements and basic cultural themes. These dances are most often seen at social gatherings such as weddings and festivals. They are also incorporated into life celebrations, such as the birth of a child. In many dances, men and women will dance together, while in others, they are limited to men or women only. They often involve singing and are usually accompanied by instruments. 5 star hotels Goa are an excellent resource for information on where a dance may take place and the nature of its theme.

One of the common folk dances, Koli, derives its name from Goa and the local fisher people. This tradition is known for the same reason the people are, the lively nature of their personalities and dances. These dances generally involve a specific focus, the sea and fishing, which makes obvious sense as it is also tied to the most common occupation, which is also what the village was known for. This dance is performed by both men and women who are separated into two groups. The larger of the two groups represents the background of the story. They work in pairs and their movements indicate the flow of waves and the rowing of boats. The smaller group is also broken into pairs. These pairs articulate the main story of the dance, which usually involves the Kolin (the fisherwoman) advancing on the Koli (the fisherman). This is a ritual oriented dance that is symbolic to the locals and fascinating to tourists.

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Mauritius part the Mascarne Islands is located off the east coast of Africa. The tropical climate which exhibits a warm dry climate from spring to fall and hot, wet and humid for the remainder of the year.  The island is well known for its natural beauty. Author Mark Twain for example, noted in ‘Following the Equator’ his personal travelogue, “You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius”.

The capital and largest city on the island is Port Louis, located on the northwest corner of the island. Originally settled by the Dutch in 1638, it became an item of contention between the powerful European countries, France and England.  Under the French reign of power a flourishing economy was created by the cultivation of sugar. Like many other countries with that grow sugar, rum production became a secondary and very important source of revenue for the Island of Mauritius.  Mauritius won its independence in 1968 and since then has focused upon the expansion and diversification of their economy. As of 2009, the financial services industry, small manufacturing and tourism industry are still experiencing growth.

A paradise for those who want to enjoy the sea or just to soak up the sun, the beaches have become a popular destination for vacationers. There are many types of accommodations ranging from a guest rooms to the five star hotels Mauritius. Grand Bay, one of the first areas of the island developed for tourism, is a shopping & leisure delight. It is also an area most popular with the locals who consider it the place for a vibrant nightlife.  Ile aux Cerfs is perfect for those who prefer to be physically active. There are many water sports available and it has one of the most beautiful beaches. This is an area that must be seen and experienced.

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David Earl is a South African pianist and composer of international recognition and fame. He was born in 1951 in Stellenbosch and made his professional debut at the age of 16, while he was still a student at the Rondebosch Boy’s High School. This premiere was comprised of a concert being broadcast by the South African Broadcasting Corporation. The concert included works by Bach, Chabrier, and Chopin. In 1968 he made his premiere performance with the Cape Town Symphony Orchestra during which he played Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 1. Then in 1971 he moved to London where he studied at the Trinity College of Music. His instructors included Jacob Kaletsky and Richard Arnell. He was recognized by The Times for his first recital at Wigmore Hall, for which it noted that he was powerful and stylish. Following this, the Greater London Arts Association selected him as one of the Young Musicians of the Year in 1975.

His debut as a composer also occurred at Wigmore Hall, when he presented his Piano Suite No. 1 Mosaics in 1977. Earl has become known and respected around the world for his musicianship and his work as a composer. He never lost touch with his ties with the Cape Town Symphony Orchestra, who was fundamental in his early development and continues to be part of his professional career. The Cape Town Symphony Orchestra has helped to launch more careers than Earl’s. One of the organization’s major interests is in education and developing music appreciation skills in youth. Earl returned to perform with the orchestra in 2007 when he performed as the solo pianist for the Cape Town Summer Music Festival’s opening ceremony. The festival also featured the world premiere of Earl’s Piano Concerto No. 2. The festival attracted locals and guests from out of town alike. Many tourists were in attendance, having heard about the festival while staying in one of the Cape Town South Africa hotels.

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One aspect of Thai culture that is often overlooked by Western visitors when making travel plans is the country’s vibrant performing arts scene. Bangkok, in particular, has a strong focus on performance and entertainment. The scene offers everything from local community theatre productions to major touring companies and high budget productions. Studio 9, is an excellent example of Thai performance at a moderate price.

Studio 9 has its home in the Patravadi Theatre, which has been in existence for more than 10 years. Billing itself as Dining By The River, the space is the latest studio offering of the Theatre and includes for its patrons a magnificent evening view of the Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is one of the most enchanting complexes of buildings in Bangkok. It has housed the kings of Thailand since the 18^th century and serves as a major landmark to the city and country. Any traveler to Thailand seeking luxury accommodations in one of the five star hotels Bangkok would be remiss to not seek out this unique and charming theatre space. Studio 9 has the distinction of showcasing some of Thailand’s most distinguished artists, as well as the up and coming, performers. Its range of genres is diverse, offering dance, puppetry, music, theatre and more every Saturday. There is also an open rehearsal on Fridays and Sundays where audiences have the privilege of witnessing first hand how the magic all comes together.

The Patradavi Theatre continues is standard of excellent entertainment with the addition of Studio 9. It remains a unique fusion of performance and dining along the river. The theatre is most known for its presentation of shows with traditional Thai roots, but also focuses on international styles. It hosts the annual Bangkok International Fringe Festival, which features among its many performances a special engagement of contemporary Thai dance. The theatre is so prestigious that the name has become synonymous with performing arts. Patravadi Mejudhon is the founder and artistic director of the company. She has been a pioneering and driving force on the Bangkok arts scene for many years. She opened the doors to the Patradavi in 1992.

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