Travel is a popular way to celebrate a wedding anniversary. When anniversary couples travel to places that are also commemorating special events, it becomes a double celebration. There are annual festivities that welcome the participation of visitors and, thus, provide anniversary and travel memories of a lifetime.
Hong Kong International Races
The Hong Kong horse racing calendar, which generally runs between September and June/July, offers some of the most exciting horse racing events in the world. Day racing and night racing take place in two spectacular settings: at the heart of Happy Valley on Hong Kong Island and in Shatin, part of the New Territories. The Hong Kong International Races are held in December, when the world's top owners, trainers, jockeys and horses visit Hong Kong to try to win the rich prize money.
December is one of the best months to be in Hong Kong because of the cooler temperatures. In addition to the races, taking in sightseeing, dining and shopping would make an unforgettable anniversary trip. If you can't make a trip in December, time a visit to coincide with some of the other special events. In June, travelers can attend a Chinese water festival such as the annual International dragon boat races, which pit international teams of champion rowers against each other.
Roman Spring
Few places could be more romantic for an anniversary trip than Rome, a city of scenic and historical pageantry, plus incomparable Italian cuisine and extensive choices in hotel accommodation. In late March, thousands of vases of azaleas adorn the famous Spanish Steps of the city to celebrate the arrival of spring. Easter and Holy Week in late March to April are also special events in the Italian calendar, with citywide celebrations centered at St. Peter's Square. Time a trip to take in selected special events.
Simultaneously explore ancient and living history in The Colosseum, The Pantheon, St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square, the artistic and architectural legacies of Michelangelo including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, the Bridge of Angels, the Trevi Fountain, the piazzas and cobblestone streets. Rome is also called "the Eternal City," so as omens go, it is an ideal anniversary choice.
It is said that a visit to Rome lasts a lifetime in memories and that a coin tossed into the Trevi Fountain with a well-placed wish can lead visitors back to Rome before long.
City of Light
To be in Paris at any time is a treat, but to celebrate an anniversary there is an event to remember. Parisians are proud of their history and heritage, never more so than on July 14, France's National Day. A large military parade takes place along the Avenue des Champs-Elysees and fireworks light the night sky. Paris is, in fact, called the "City of Light" to mark its conversion to gas lamps in the 1800s. To witness the street lights flicker on along the Champs-Elysees towards dusk is a magical sight.
Watch the world go by at sidewalk cafés, try the delicious pastries and French bread that are Parisian trademarks, and sightsee at famous landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. No visitor to Paris should miss the opportunity to ascend to the very top of the Eiffel Tower, all 1665 steps or 324 meters (more than 1,000 feet). For art lovers, there is The Louvre, the home of "Mona Lisa" among other priceless works of art.
Tags: Hong Kong, special events, anniversary trip, City Light, Hong Kong International