eGetinnz supported the mommy blogger community by sponsoring a staycation raffle prize at the Mommy Bloggers Philippines Christmas Party. We introduced the newest travel accommodation booking site and the mommies found eGetinnz to be a new and exciting travel option.
The beautiful landscape of Cameron Highlands in Malaysia is indeed breathtaking. Famous for its winding trails and tranquil surroundings, the extensive hill station was first developed by the British in the 1920’s.
Not only do they have these lush hills but they also have a strawberry farm, butterfly farm and rose garden to explore. Cameron Highlands is a popular tourist destination and is well preserved.
Tea Plantation
Tourists often book the guided “tea” tours to see the vast tea plantations. The tea industry is a thriving one in Malaysia particularly in Cameron Highlands.
Spain has many traditions to behold and witness. They are a culture full of Flamenco music and dance, Spanish guitars, bullfighting and bakalao. They are known for siestas and have a more relaxed approach when it comes to work and studies.
If you’re planning a trip to Spain make sure you go during one of these festivals to enjoy the local culture and festivities.
Las Fallas, Valencia
March- In the Mediterranean city of Valencia there is a week long fiesta paying tribute to Saint Joseph, Valencia’s patron saint. The days are filled with papier-mâché effigies, fireworks, city plaza happenings and plenty of noise.
Semana Santa, Seville
Easter- Semanata Santa is a major celebration during Holy Week where parades and floats of Roman Catholic figures are lined up and toured throughout the city. It’s a somber event but one of great importance to the Spanish culture.
La Fiesta de San Fermin, Pamplona
July- One of the most famous worldwide events, the La Fiesta de San Fermin or more known for its Running of the Bulls gathers thousands to Pamplona to witness and be part of the huge spectale. There have been incidents of harm and even death as locals and tourists try to sprint alongside the bulls.
La Tomatina, Buñol
August- A one of a kind celebration that stars a tomato! The La Tomatina or “tomato war” is held in the town of Buñol outside Valencia. It’s a week long festival to honor Buñol’s patron saint. There are street parties, parades and a final tomato war food fight that lasts hours.
Fiesta de San Isidro, Madrid
May- The Fiesta de San Isidro is in honour of Madrid’s patron. Plenty of concerts and performances can be expected during this fiesta.
Seville Tapas Fair, Seville
February- Spain is known for its delicious tapas so it’s no surprise they would have festival showcasing this delicacy. Being the Tapas capital of the world, Seville hosts a celebration centered on the favorite local dish.
San Sebastian Jazz Festival, Basque
July- The Jazz scene is quite big in the city of Basque even celebrating it with a jazz festival. The best performances can be seen and new talents are always discovered.
Festes de la Merce, Barcelona
September- It’s considered the biggest fiesta in Barcelona complete with parades, giants and fireworks. Include a trip to the museum to see Picasso’s works or a stroll on one of their lovely beaches.
It’s always an adventure to spend the holidays in another city or country. New York City is one of the must have experiences during the holidays. The holiday season starts as early as Thanksgiving and ends with the famous ball drop in Times Square.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The annual pageant always has giant balloons and floats, marching bands, performances and celebrities joining in on the fun. Every last Thursday of November the streets along Central Park West, Columbus Circle, Sixth Avenue, Central Park South, 38th Street, to Herald Square is lined with people awaiting the grand spectacle.
*Central Park West to Herald Square
The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting
One of the most spectacular sights you can witness is the lighting of the 78-foot, 10-ton Norway Spruce tree with over 45,000 LED lights. This yearly event is free and everyone is welcome to watch. Atrip to Rockefeller Center wouldn’t be complete with a skate at the Rink.
*Rockefeller Center on 49th St between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.
New Years Eve Ball Drop at Times Square
Almost everyone turns to Time Square to witness the ball drop as we enter the New Year. The tradition has spread throughout the world and it such wonderful sight to witness.
Thai temples also known as “wats” are the beautiful representations of historical and cultural significance. Buddhism is a central element of Thailandculture. Monks have a certain identity and are surprisingly friendly and many speak English and have kept up with the times.
Thai temples are usually located in a courtyard with housing and small worship areas. The sheltered areas with Buddha statues are known as Bots. These areas are considered more sacred and as such rules of etiquette should be followed.
Step over the threshold not on it when walking into a temple
Dress modestly covering your knees and shoulders
Remove your hats, sunglasses, shoes before entering
Never turn your back away from the Buddha statue but rather back away facing the statue
Don’t touch sacred objects in the worship area
Do not raise yourself higher than the image of the Buddha
Sit with your legs underneath you when worshiping in the Bots area. Avoid pointing your feet at the image of the Buddha
If you are sitting, stand up when monks or nuns enter the Bot
Use your right hand when giving or receiving something from a monk
Women are not allowed to touch a monk or his robes or cross their legs in the presence of a monk
Treat monks with the highest respect
Don’t point at a monk or Buddha statue, either with your fingers or feet.
Don’t touch a Buddha
Smoking, spitting, chewing gum, or eating are not allowed
Don’t photograph or disturb monks or others who are worshiping
Learn a few basic phrases in Thai, like ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’