Want to be part of something amazing this year? From spiritual festivals to wine battles (yes, you read that right), these exciting events are sure to make 2018 a year to remember…
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Be romanced by Thailand’s Loi Kathrong and Yi Peng festivals
Two of Thailand’s most romantic festivals, Loi Krathong and Yi Peng, converge in Chiang Mai on a full moon in November. Pay respect to the goddess of water before floating krathong (decorated bamboo baskets) down the river. Make a wish, then look skyward to see a flickering fairyland of floating lanterns. Magical.
Get soaked in Spain’s epic Battle de Vino
Sure, we’re not fussy about how our wine is served – but in buckets and water pistols? Head to Haro, in Spain’s Rioja region, to experience the merry summer tradition of Batalla de Vino (Wine Battle). Think Valencia’s La Tomatina, but with wine. A balmy all-nighter of drinking and dancing is where the fun begins, before the sunrise assault. It gets messy, but surely soaking in vino beats a battering of tomatoes, right?
Swap pumpkin plans for Dia de los Muertos in Mexico
Halloween, shmalloween. Ever since Daniel Craig navigated through the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) revellers in the opening of Spectre, we’ve been intrigued. The three-day October event, where life is celebrated by honouring the dead, is startling but joyous. Thanks to the movie, this centuries-old tradition has landed on bucket lists everywhere.
Enjoy the glitz and glamour of the Festival de Cannes
Starry-eyed cinephiles visit France for romance in May. The harbours are awash with Hollywood royalty and the Riviera air thick with chic for the annual Festival de Cannes. Stay glued to the red carpet, catch a movie, or order some Champagne pour deux and toast the sheer fabulousness of it all. 2018 is the perfect year to go, with our Cate (Blanchett, that is) serving as President of the Jury. Oooh la la!
Sample Tasmania’s best produce at The Taste of Tasmania
If a nautical dress code floats your boat then make a beeline for Hobart’s waterfront in December as the Sydney to Hobart yachts sail in to celebrate and commiserate. Heaving witha feast of Tasmania’s finest produce including seafood, cheese, cool-climate wines and boutique ciders, plus free entertainment, it’s enough to tempt even the most dedicated landlubber.
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