Sinulog Festival - Cebu City Philippines

In the past, the Cebuanos (people of Cebu as being referred to) were strong followers of Islam and paganism. Their beliefs were changed when Catholicism was brought by the Spaniards to the archipelago during the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the Philippines is the third largest Catholic nation in the world with more than 70 million followers after Brazil and Mexico.

One of the Philippines colorful and sought after festivals is Sinulog. It is celebrated on the third Sunday of January lasting for nine days honoring the miraculous image of Santo Nino (Cebu City's Patron Saint). The highlight of the festival is the street dancing where participants wrap themselves in beautifully tailored costume whilst dancing in a ritual, commemorating the original beliefs of Islam, paganism, and their acceptance of the Catholic faith.

Last year, Sinulog Festival marked its 30th anniversary and made history when it was jam-packed by eight million spectators; a huge success that made Sinulog 2010 the biggest Sinulog ever! This year, Sinulog Grand Parade kicks off on Sunday January 16, 2011 and I'm sure it's gonna be a lot of fun. What are you waiting for? Join the fun! Join Sinulog 2011.

More information can be found on their website  http://www.sinulog.ph/

Christmas In South East Asia

I know it's late but i still believe in "better late than never" junkie. Been busy with so many personal activities related to work. Soo in return, I'll make sure to make a post about New Year before the 1st of January, of course. Anyway, we all know that several countries in the world celebrate Christmas with great emphasis on gift-giving and family get together during Christmas eve, with symbols being attached to almost anything, even bushes and trees in the backyard.

However, each countries has its own variations or difference in some other ways. Traditions and culture play an important role in making it unique. Religion has its part as well, especially in Southeast Asia where Buddhism dominates the countries of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam. Malaysia and Indonesia are dominant followers of Islam, while the Philippines and Timor-Leste are followers of the Christian faith.

Southeast Asian countries may be different, yet very similar in so many ways. And to better explain on how Southeast Asian celebrate Christmas read Christmas in Southeast Asia HERE.

King Bhumibol Adulyadej - Thailand

I would like to use this blog as a platform in greeting the entire country of Thailand a "Happy Father's Day", especially to King Bhumibol Adulyadej as he celebrates his 83rd birthday.

The King was born on December 5, 1927 in Cambridge, Massachusetts and is currently the longest reigning monarch in the world. He married Queen Sirikit on April 28, 1950. Both are deeply loved and respected by their people for their generous compassion.

LONG LIVE THE KING!

Loi Krathong Festival - Thailand

On November 21, 2010 the Kingdom of Thailand and certain parts of Laos celebrated the Loi Krathong Festival. Loi Krathong takes place on the 12th month of Thai lunar calendar, which usually falls in November in western calendar. People gather near the river, ponds, lakes, or simply where there is water to float their krathong.

Photo taken by Art Lunaria

Excerpt from wiki

"Loi" means "to float" and a "krathong" is traditionally made from a section of banana tree trunk. Modern krathongs are more often made of bread or styrofoam. A bread krathong will disintegrate in a few a days and be eaten by fish and other animals. The traditional banana stalk krathongs are also biodegradable, but styrofoam krathongs are frowned on, since they are polluting and may take years to disappear. Regardless of the composition, a krathong will be decorated with elaborately-folded banana leaves, flowers, candles and incense sticks. A low value coin is sometimes included as an offering to the river spirits.

During the night of the full moon, Thais will float their krathong on a river, canal or a pond lake. The festival is believed to originate in an ancient practice of paying respect to the spirit of the waters. Today it is simply a time to have fun.

Interesting, isn't? I went to Nan River here in Phitsanulok and saw thousands of people having fun floating their krathong. Others were partying on the street while eating, drinking, and taking pictures here and there. Some where just contented watching other peoples' activities. It was fun. Really fun. I look forward for another Loi Krathong Festival.

See you next year!

Borneo Bird Festival 2010

Do you LIKE birds? If the word LIKE is not enough for you perhaps we can use a strong word like LOVE? lol...Anyways, if you are into birds, why not take part in Borneo's Bird Festival this year at Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), Sepilok Sandakan, Sabah on October 15-17 ? The photography contest, Borneo Bird Race, childrens' activities and a lot more will surely gonna be a blast.

You can explore the entire RDC where the famous Orang-utans live in luxury. It is just 20 miles away from the airport and 14 kilometers from the town.

And if you would like to learn more about some fascinating facts about the event from workshops, guided tours, and lectures you can do so with a minimal fee. Seats are limited so early registration will secure an added knowledge about birds.

Have fun!

Malaysia at 53!

Malaysia celebrates its 53rd year of independence today, August 31, 2010 or locally known as Merdeka Day from British occupation. I would like to use this blog to promote and greet our Malaysian friends a HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! What a nice feeling of being LIBERATED and FREE! wink...

For more information, here is the 2010 eNewsletter issue of the Tourism of Malaysia.

Once again, HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!..Malaysia truly Asia.

Indonesia at 65!

The largest archipelago in the world with a population of around 240 million is celebrating its 65th year independence! That's right, today August 17, 2010 is Indonesia's 65th Independence.

Click picture for a better view

I would like to greet our Indonesian friends "HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY". May the leaders and government officials be the instrument in making the country more productive and successful. 

Viva Indonesia!

Ramadan

Two days ago, our Muslim friends all over the world and here in Southeast Asia started Ramadan. Ramadan is the time when they abstain eating from dawn till sunset (fasting), and when sexual activities and drinking are also refrained. 

It is the holiest month of our Muslim brothers usually celebrated during August, September,October, November and December. A unification of spiritual reflection and renewal of oneself for the sake of Allah (Arabic translation of God). As what the Prophet Muhammad said "For the person who is fasting, there are two moments of happiness and rejoicing; when he breaks his fast, and when he meets his Lord."

Kao Pan Sa

Kao Pan Sa is a Buddhist lent that lasts for three months and is also known as rain retreat. It is a very old tradition dated back when Lord Buddha stayed in temples to avoid killing insects and other living organisms. In Buddhism, people welcome the rainy season and call it Wan Kao Pan Sa, while the exit is being called Wan Okk Pan Sa. The word "Kao" means enter and "Okk" means exit.

During this time the monks meditate and teach new monks. They can wander in the day but must return and sleep in the same temple for three straight months, just like what the Lord Buddha did in the old times. It is also the time when people refrain from doing bad things like drinking or smoking. They usually light candles at night and pray, while walking three rounds around the temple.

In Ubon Ratchatanee a province of Thailand near the Cambodian border, they have gigantic candles being showcased to the people during Kao Pansa. Wonderful and amazing designs of candles will fill your eyes. Also, the wax sculpting and candle design contest is a must see there. Visiting Ubon will give you a chance of seeing candles far beyond your imagination. Here's the link to the post i made about the amazing candles. Click HERE