World Tourist Destinations

'I love visiting India'

Performer Ann Sholem of the National Dance Company of Wales talks about her first performance in India


How did you happen to plan this tour?
We planned the tour as an exchange programme with Stem Dance Company in Bengaluru. They are coming to perform in Wales in May next year. The exchange program has been made possible by support from the Welsh Government, British Council and Wales Arts International.

Is this your first performance here?
It's our first trip to India and as a part of it, we performed in Chennai, Bengaluru and Delhi.

Considering it's your first performance-based trip, what impression do you hold of India?
I have been very familiar with Indian music and Indian dance forms because I have been to India many times before. I especially like seeing the new contemporary India with fresh ideas and the wonderful energy that's coming out of the country. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing stem dance perform in Bengaluru as well as hoping to see as many other dance performances as possible while we are in India.

What, apart from the multi-city performance, fascinated you the most?
The great Indian food! I was really looking forward to it. I wanted to meet many people in India and of course performing to a new audience for the first time was a major thrill. I somehow feel that these cultural exchanges always stimulate new thinking and exciting new artistic collaborations.

What performances did you deliver here?
A great doublebill of new dance from two internationally famous contemporary dance choreographers. We have 11 great dancers in a wonderful passionate show. It's sharp edgy and beautifully performed.

Would you be keen on doing more shows in India or collaborating with Indian artists?
I love visiting India, so the chance to perform there again in the future with more new work would be fantastic. And yes, it would be wonderful to do more exchange programs with contemporary Indian artists in music dance and visual art.

New York diaries

Actor Ali Zafar, who was in New York recently, can't stop gushing about the place as he talks about his favourite spots in the city



Actor Ali Zafar has been to New York a couple of times, but every time before he leaves the place, he already begins planning his next trip to the city. The actor, who was there to shoot for a film a couple of months back, says New York is one of his favourite destinations in the world. He says, "New York is one of those places I can keep visiting again and again. It is not my first visit to the city, but each time I come here, the place surprises me. This time we were shooting at the Hudson River bridge and incidentally at the same time, the Batman crew was also there shooting for their next film. Hudson River is a beautiful location and we were shooting there for a week, but the rest of the time I was pretty much running all around the place." Ali says the best thing about New York is the vibe and the energy of the place. This time he was in the city during the Halloween weekend, when the entire place is buzzing. "The last time too I was in New York, it was the Halloween weekend. Halloween is that time of the year when everyone dresses up and parties. I missed the parade and couldn't get to party. But the last time around, I witnessed the parade, dressed up and went partying all night," he says. He also recommends that the best time to visit New York would be sometime in July and August. His favourite place in the city is obviously The Times Square. "If anyone has a day to spend in New York, I suggest they have lunch at Tribbiani's, head out to the city later and then spend the evening at Times Square. If one has some more time, a Broadway play is the best way to unwind," he says. Ask him what the best thing about New York is and he quips it's the freedom to walk around and just be at ease. "The place has a vibe similar to that of Mumbai. The people, the culture and the energy... everything is lovely. I am that kind of a person who loves to soak up on the city and explore the place on foot. So any place where I get to walk endlessly is the best bet. In New York, I can do that; I can be myself for hours together. I love that feeling. Also, New York is very special to me because I got all the equipment for my music studio from the New York Guitar Centre. And music in an intrinsic part of my life. So the city too holds special importance."

Top 10 Things to Do in Malaysia

Malaysia is a modern nation of amazing ecological beauty and a rich mix of Malay, Indian, Chinese, Arabic, European, Peranakan and other cultures

You can eat and drink your way through Malaysia. From stalls alongside the streets to food markets, from large-scale food courts within shopping malls to gourmet restaurants, its choice of gastronomic offerings is legendary.
Most importantly, Malaysia has world renowned attractions that make a trip here immeasurably rewarding. Here's a list of top things to do in Malaysia.

1. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur
The 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers, standing at 452 metres, are the world's tallest twin structures. Inspired by Islamic architecture, the gleaming mega-towers are joined at the 41st and 42nd floors by a 58-metre long double-decker Sky Bridge that offers spectacular views of Kuala Lumpur.

2. Melaka Historic City, Malacca
The historical city of Melaka is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a thriving port city, Melaka today is a hotchpotch of Malay, Chinese, Indian, European and sundry influences. Boasting a great blend of historic attractions - from the salmon-pink Stadhuys to the Jonker Walk Night Market - Melaka is also home to the famed Nyonya cuisine.
3. Georgetown Historic City, Penang
Georgetown, Penang's capital on the north-eastern corner of the island, is dotted with idiosyncratic Chinese shops, narrow roads, colonial-era mansions, ornate temples and Little India districts. A fascinating fusion of eastern and western influences, the island manages to embrace modernity while retaining its colonial traditions. Its well-preserved heritage buildings are instrumental in Georgetown's UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site status.

4. Sarawak, Borneo
Sarawak, Land of the Hornbill, is located on the north-western shore of Borneo. Experience its colourful ethnic diversity and fascinating array of attractions - from breathtaking beaches to fascinating rainforests, from adrenaline-pumping adventure sports to museums filled with Malaysian wonders. Explore its historic capital Kuching on a walk along its beautiful waterfront.

5. Menara KL Tower, Kuala Lumpur
Along with the Petronas Twin Towers, the Menara KL Tower is easily Malaysia's most recognizable and popular landmark. The tower stands at 421 metres while its viewing deck at 276 metres, is at least 100 metres higher than the Petronas Twin Towers' Skybridge, and offers great views during the day and sparkling views of the city centre at night.

Christ Church in the main square in Melaka

6. Langkawi Cable Car, Pantai Kok - Langkawi
The Oriental Village in the upper northwest of Langkawi Island, near Pantai Kok, is the entrance for the cable-car ride, which takes you all the way up to Mount Mat Cincang, Langkawi's second highest peak. Feel the temperature drop and the breeze blow as the cable-car ascends over the rainforest and the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls. Take in the fabulous views of the rainforests and the surroundings hills from the top of the peak.

7. Penang Hill, Penang
Penang Hill or Bukit Bendera rises 821 metres above sea level and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island. With the right dose of history and nippy climate, Penang plays host to a variety of attractions ranging from beaches to historical architecture, from cultural hotspots to cuisine. The Penang Hill Railway's Swiss-built funicular that dates back to 1897 is a beautiful way to ascend the hill.

8. Kinabalu National Park, Sabah - Borneo
The Kinabalu National Park, located in northwest Sabah, is Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to the 4095-metre Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak, it has one of the world's largest collections of flora and fauna.

9. Cameron Highlands, Pahang State
Take respite from Malaysia's humid cities and soak up the magnificent views from the mountain resorts of Cameron Highlands, a salubrious hill station located along the Pahang borders. At almost 2,000 meters above sea level, Camerons offers daytime temperatures of around 25°C and 18°C at night with beautiful surrounds.

10. Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, Petaling Jaya
Spanning an area over 80 acres, Malaysia's premier theme park in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, has thrills and spills to offer people of all ages! Divided into three sections; the Wild Wild West, World of Adventure and Waters of Africa, a day out in Sunway Lagoon is a fun-filled encounter to remember!

Come and visit magical Malaysia.

Picture perfect Singapore!

...Is what actor Tejaswini Kolhapure experienced on her recent trip to the island state



A vibrant, multi-cultural, and cosmopolitan island-state, Singapore expresses the essence of today's New Asia. In Singapore, each surrounding area has its own distinct flavour, from the aromatic spice stores of Little India to the tumbledown backstreets of Chinatown or the Arab Quarter, whose cluttered stores sell fine clothes and silks.
Though Singapore is known as the best business destination in the world, actor Tejaswini Kolhapure's trip to this place was for a wedding. "It was a two-in-one trip for me. I had a wedding to attend and I also got to meet one of my closest college friends who live there," says Tejaswini. But what struck the actor the most was the cleanliness. "When I landed I couldn't miss how clean Singapore was — it was like a picture postcard. Secretly, I wished for our Mumbai to be this clean some day." Tejaswini was also glad to get some respite from the Mumbai traffic, "Singapore, I felt, is not a very big city because getting from point A to point B didn't take more than 30 minutes, considering the travel we do in Mumbai. Also when the roads are great, drives are better as well," she adds.
Besides the beautiful sights, and skyscrapers there are great shopping centres in Singapore. Also, it has a buzzing nightlife. "Shopping, particularly for electronics is a must here. I managed to buy things like shoes from my favourite brands and a laptop for my husband. Orchard Street is the most happening place in terms of shopping and night scene. I also got souvenirs for my niece and nephews." Describing the food scene in Singapore, Tejaswini says, "People here are very polite and sweet and the food was to die for. I went to this popular joint called Jumbo where I had the Singaporean chilly crab. It was a bit too sweet though. Next time, I shall have the black pepper one."
Though the actor was disappointed in missing out on Sentosa Island, she lists out three must-do things when in Singapore. "You have to eat at the Jumbo restaurant. Also you must go on this street called Clarkys, which is full of clubs and restaurants by the river. Thirdly, shopping at Orchard Street." Finally Tejaswini brands Singapore to be an impressive package of food, fashion and fun! "It was a wonderful trip. Singapore is not very big but it's very clean and everything there is in order. Also, it's so green, with a fabulous shopping scene and excellent food," Tejaswini ends.

Viva la Espana!

Spanish events are dotting Mumbai's cultural landscape, as we get to see the city hosting a number of events celebrating Spanish ethos

It seems that the recession has hit Europe pretty badly, as Spain now seems to have descended on Mumbai, with the city hosting a number of events celebrating the rich Hispanic culture and tradition. Be it Spanish, Mexican or Latin American — Mumbaikars seem to slurp up anything that is interesting and have a Spanish touch.
It all started with Zoya Akhtar's on the road drama Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, which was extensively shot in various cities around Spain. In spite of getting mixed reviews, the film made people enthralled by the beauty and culture of Spain. Just after the movie the La Tomatino festival was organised, which also featured in the movie. The festival was first of its kind held in Mumbai. People got to squash, stomp and throw tomatoes on everyone around them without a care in the world. Recently, there also took place Latino Night at Canvas, where people got to sway to the magical beats of the Latin music (Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Zouk, Kizomba, Reggaeton etc.) It was a brilliant night with people dancing to the tunes of sensuous Salsa.
Then for all the food lovers out there, the Festival of Spain in celebration of the European country's National Day was organised. The Consulate of Spain in association with Mediterranean restaurant Amadeus, dished out some Spanish treats, in the presence of some energetic flamenco dancing. Farrokh Khambata of Amadeus said, "This Spanish festivals are an attempt to offer Mumbaikars an insight into Spanish food and lifestyle."
Keeping up with the food culture, is an exciting new initiative by Svenska Design Hotels, who announced the launch of a series of cooking classes on Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine by professional chefs of Miro, who have been taught by Michelin-star chefs from Europe. Finally, the Wedding Cafe; and Lounge also organised a week long Mexican Food festival, bringing in a refreshing combination of Mexican food and margheritas!

Surfing through Sufism


The upcoming annual Sufi festival, Ruhaniyat, promises to bring seldom heard folk tunes from remote corners of the world to the city



Gear up for some soulful music as the eleventh edition of Ruhaniyat — one of the biggest Sufi music festival in Asia — comes to the city. Known to bring on the stage the remote and rural tunes, the two-day long festival is truly a celebration of the folk artists — the actual practitioners of mystic traditions who express complex and deep thoughts in the most enchanting manner.
Says founder, organiser Nandini Mahesh, "For us 2011 is very special as now Ruhaniyat has entered the second decade. It has been a long journey and a very demanding one, with the festival travelling to seven cities of India. But, it has also been a deeply satisfying one too and, it is far from complete. There are so many forms which are amazingly powerful, orally passed down from generation to generation across centuries, hidden in various parts of our country. The carriers of these living traditions create an absolutely enchanting tapestry of music."

This time around, the Mumbai version of the festival will feature some unique and unheard of forms of rural rhythms. "We are forms like Devaram hymns by Nayanmars from Tamil Nadu; these are ancient hymns that date back to seventh century. Another highlight is Waee from Kutch, a one of its kind stylised rendition of Shah Latif's works. Mystic Shabads, Kabirbani and Zikr are the other brilliant forms that will be featured this year," explains Nandini. And that's not all. Also performing at the event will be guest artists Whirling Dervishes from Turkey. Another highlight is the first ever performance of Polyphony, which will be presented on both the days. The festival that opens at the historic Purana Qila in Delhi, will be held in Mumbai on the weekend, and will then travel to Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai and Pune.

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE MUSCAT OMAN Home of Cultural Radiance

Established by Royal Decree, the Royal Opera House Muscat was officially inaugurated on October 14, 2011, amid much excitement and fanfare. A recital of Puccini's masterpiece, 'Turandot', was the highlight of the inaguration. The Opera House is an influential arts and culture platform that enhances Oman's international reputation and reinforces its niche offerings. The organisation serves as a laboratory for creativity and intellectual exchanges; and its high-tech venue pays tribute to and presents diverse artistic and cultural expressions from the Sultanate, the region, and the world.
A towering beacon shedding light on the various trends of the Renaissance march towards growth, Royal Opera House Muscat is an illustration of the undivided attention that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has devoted to the cultural sector since the new dawn of the Sultanate. He has repeatedly asserted that the human being is not only the ultimate goal of any development process, but also its instrument and means. Therefore, sustained investment in educational and cultural infrastructures to promote the wellbeing of the Omani citizens, while strengthening the pillars of the modern State, is a high priority on the list of noble goals that Sultan Qaboos seeks to achieve.
From this perspective and in order to promote the Sultanate's cultural heritage and artistic engagement, Royal Directives were issued to develop a set of structures to broaden people's participation in cultural life. Royal Opera House Muscat has emerged as the leading open house for arts and culture in the country. It was initially conceived in 2001 as the house for musical arts and its development over a decade underwent several changes reflecting the modernist vision of Sultan Qaboos and other requirements that enabled the Royal Court Affairs, with the assistance of various technical experts, to build what is now viewed as a milestone in the evolution of an Omani architectural style.
The newly completed building is a fusion of Omani tradition and modernity. The construction of this iconic and majestic Royal Opera House Muscat building with stunning handmade ornaments, including the sophistication of its rich interior, is in many ways an embodiment of such complexity and multiplicity of references witnessed in Omani architecture.
Sultan Qaboos, on the occasion of the opening, said: "Oman, throughout its long history has played prominent roles in various cultural fields and the time has come now to cap that rich march by means of adopting concepts of international culture and by effective contribution to its promotion. Towards that end, we have established the Royal Opera House Muscat as a centre of cultural radiance for the Omani people and all humanity."
"We have sought in all world forum to foster the constructive role of Oman in the dialogue among civilisations and in enriching cultural exchange and strengthening bonds of permanent friendship and cooperation. We are sure that the Royal Opera House Muscat will play a significant role in disseminating world heritage and reinforcing the principles of peace, coexistence and understanding among all nations and peoples through art events that express a common human cultural heritage of strong meaning and deep impact," he added.