Asian Wedding Traditions and Rituals

Asian weddings have customs and traditions that date back to hundreds of years ago but their meaning and appeal has never lost its touch. These are meaningful gestures and rituals that despite the influences and infusion of western culture in the ceremony and reception, most couples never fail to incorporate old customs as homage and as tribute to the culture and heritage.

In Japan, brides wear gowns or kimono that is purple in color because the color purple is the color of love in Japan. The gown is also adorned with symbols such as iris flowers to symbolize good fortune. When the bride and groom’s family enters the ceremonial hall, it is customary that they bring gifts such as rice water, salt or fruits as their offering in exchange for the blessing to come for the couple.

A wedding in the Philippines usually starts a year or at least six months in preparation that starts with the ‘pamamnhikan’. This is the event where the groom and his family visit the bride and her family at their home. At this point, the groom will formally ask her parents for her hand in marriage. Other arrangements such as the home and wedding expenses are discussed here as well.

In China, like with most of their celebrations, the color of the celebration is red. Red stands for everything lucky, of good fortune, and of good health. While there are couples who would opt for the engagement ring, a whole roast pig can serve as an engagement gift of the groom to the bride’s family. Gifts are being offered as well to the bride’s family on the days leading to the wedding. For the reception, towards the end of the celebration, firecrackers are being lit to drive away evil spirits through the loud noise.

For a feel of Asia in your wedding, complete your preparation with the traditional touch of Asian ceremony, from the wedding announcements to Asian wedding favors with a twist of modern appeal. There are a lot of people opting for a wedding ceremony in Asia as well, such as in Bangkok or beach weddings in the Philippines such as Boracay. Wedding expenses are not as high as in other countries as well, but the charm of the celebration may even exceed theirs though. More importantly, the wishes and desires of the couple on how their wedding will turn out should be the topmost priority.

Top 5 Vacation Getaway Locations in Asia

Probably the best vacations spots in the world are in Asia. It is so good that some Westerners end up retiring in a peaceful abode in Asia. But for vacation, when you get tired of the snow and the same sunny beach in the US, you can try to visit Asia and marvel at the sights and sounds that are offered.

If you are planning a vacation, or planning a honeymoon, or even buying some Asian goods, artifacts, or asian wedding favors, here are some very interesting tips and facts about the top 5 vacation spots in Asia.

- Hong Kong – Prepare your feet when vacationing in Hong Kong because the most favorite vacation spot in Asia is best travelled by feet. Even upon you arrival, the HK International Airport will greet you with its grandeur and modernity – and that huge airport can be your practice and exercise for your walking tour of the city. Also prepare to stretch your cash as flea bargains and night markets abound in Hong Kong. Cheap finds from foods to electronics to shirts will thrill the shopper in you. For other activities, you can visit Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park and the Peak – which gives you a breath taking view of the city of Hong Kong.

- Palawan – also dubbed as the ‘Last Frontier’, Palawan offers the best and most relaxing nature tour there is. Visit the Underground River – a cave with a smooth flowing and full river inside - for a trip like no other. Add to that the warmth and hospitality of the locals and you are sure to have a grand vacation time. Being an island, you can find beautiful beaches all over Palawan.

- Boracay – White sand beach, crystal clear water and exciting nightlife are some of the things that people return to in Boracay. Included in the top 25 beaches in the world, Boracay is at its best of course during summer where tourists and celebrities stay in the place. For some tourists who truly fall in love with the place, they even stay at Boracay for good.

- Macau will definitely enchant you with its luxurious hotels and equally astonishing casinos. The whole of Macau is a tourist area, so wherever you are in Macau, there is definitely something to do and some exciting place to go. The Venetian Resort Casino Hotel in Cotai Strip even have their own gondoliers (similar to that in Venice) and the ride on the Gondola along with the European gondolier is truly a ‘tourist-y’ experience.

- Bangkok – Even Hollywood movies agree, Bangkok is truly a place that reflects Asian culture. With highly traditional ways and temples abound, even Hollywood movies that is set in Asia has Bangkok as their top choice. Also highly responsive in the tourism industry, Bangkok promotes its tourism by promoting its beaches and local cultural shows.

So grab your bag and bring your cameras and video cams as well. You will need extra batteries as every minute of vacation in Asia is truly a captivating and memorable experience.