Madness of Kings, Andradina, São Paulo, Brazil

Andradina is a municipality in the state of São Paulo in Brazil. It is located in the region of Araçatuba and Andradina. The Cultural Centre pioneers of Andradina: better known as the old station, is undoubtedly the Andradina postcard. The commune has a theatre (external), circumflex, where there has already been a scene of festivals, concerts, musicals, dances. The natural beauty can be seen in the woods and fields all around.
A tradition is maintained there. Of Portuguese origin, the sources say that the tradition came to Brazil in the 18th century. In the period from December 24th , Christmas Eve, until January 6th , the Epiphany, a group of singers and musicians roam the city singing verses about the visit of the magicians kings to the child Jesus. Ranging from door to door looking for offers, especially to collect food, animals, for the realization of the Saints Kings. The ‘Folia de Reis’ (madness of Kings), inherited from developed and Portuguese settlers in Brazil with its own characteristics; expressions preserved from generation to generation; it is a Catholic holiday that celebrates the three magicians kings. Homes visit, which lasts from the end of December until the day of the Kings, is made by organized groups, which many are motivated by social and philanthropic purposes. Properly dressed with costumes and instruments, approaches to magicians and other characters through music, dance and poetry, people who belong, enchant the population. In some cities, it is possible to admire a wonderful Nativity life-size. In addition to the musicians and singers, the group often also consists of dancers, clowns and other folk figures properly characterized according to local legends and traditions. All are organized under the direction of the master of the Kings and follow in the footsteps of the flag, performance of traditional rituals of beauty and cultural richness with veneration. In addition to this part, you could not miss the stalls of food, drinks and games, which sets the tone of the profane.

Tips

If you want to spend the holidays in the period of the ‘Folia de Reis’, it is better to make an appointment with any hotel or with owners of houses to rent for not you find without any place to stay.
This time of year is extremely hot; do not forget to take with you sunscreen and fresh clothes.

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa, Jamaica

The Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa is located on a rocky peninsula on the north coast of Jamaica, 7 km from downtown Lucea, 12 km from Tryall Golf Club, 35 km from Montego Bay and 30 minutes from the airport. It is an all-inclusive luxury complex with suites that overlook the sea, garden or pool. The rooms are luxurious, spacious, with flat-screen TV, hot tub, minibar, teapot and coffee maker, wi-fi service and a balcony as the villas have a terrace and outdoor shower. There are 6 swimming pools, a spa, 10 restaurants, 13 bars, a nightclub, a playground, a children’s club, a few shops and a beauty salon. The complex has direct access to the beach and you have the possibility of practicing water sports. The Resort shares facilities with the hotel of the same name. As the site is quite large, there are shuttles that pass regularly.

Tips

This hotel can accommodate families with more than 2 children in the same room. There is also paying child care if you need it. If you like to walk, the site allows it but bring the appropriate shoes because there are climbs and descents everywhere. There are also other possibilities of activities close to the complex such as horseback riding, golf or just car rental. If you like seafood, enjoy the restaurant by the beach as it is its specialty. Bring shoes to get into the sea, it’s convenient.

The Casse-Noisette Market, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

The Casse-Noisette (Nutcracker) Market is a Christmas market philanthropic in Montreal on the ground floor of the Convention Center Galleries. This event was created in 2010 by Les Grands Ballets in favor of the Nutcracker Fund for Children. You will find many exhibitors who were selected for their rarity, quality and originality of their products and each exhibitor will give 10% of its sales to the Nutcracker Fund for Children Grands Ballets. These funds are used to help children from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend a performance of the ballet and also to participate in educational workshops. The funds are also used to restore the costumes and scenery of the show. This lets around 2,800 children to participate.

Tips

The event takes place from November 29th to December 9th 2018 and it opens at 11:00.
You can reach the place by subway; go down at the Place d’Armes metro station (orange line) or by bus; lines 55 or 129.
Go with your family and friends, it’s for a good cause and the admission is free.