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As an avid traveller myself and having been to 23 countries across 5 continents, this post is something that I strongly resonated with and I hope to share with all parents and youth travellers because it is true that we are more likely to take risks during our travels and endanger ourselves. For example, during our trip to Hua Hin, Thailand and Batam, Indonesia; I went Paragliding and Parasailing (not fully understanding the risks sometimes), rode an electric scooter with my Mrs as pillion in Kenting, Taiwan (which was fun but scary and now come to think of it, probably foolish) and went on a Glacier Hike with my Mrs in New Zealand.

Youth travellers have a lower risk cognitive level and are more likely to adopt risk-taking attitudes in their travels, based on several studies such as from Akritidis et al., Cui et al., and Han et al. With the rise of international travel over the last year, International SOS has announced a podcast series to address health and safety concerns related to youth independent travel, to guide them on good habits and tips to travel safely.

Titled “Safeguarding Tomorrow’s Future”, experts from International SOS will share their insights on travel risks that youths may be more susceptible to, and how to prevent or mitigate these risks. The six episodes will be launched on a weekly basis, starting from 15 May 2023.

Lim Hui Ject, International SOS’ Managing Director (Singapore & Brunei), says: “We recognise the many risks associated with youth independent travel and we are glad to be able to step in and offer guidance through our subject matter experts. We have seen a rise in international travel with international trips in the last eight months surpassing the average monthly number of international trips in pre-COVID times. With the overall increase in international travel, we also expect this to include an increase in youth travel as well. With COVID-related restrictions preventing youth from travelling for so long, we worry that their excitement may cloud their decision making when it comes to their travel plans. As a pioneer and leader in international health and security risk management, we would like to act to help guide young travellers, as they begin exploring travelling independently.”

Youth travellers are less likely to think through the potential risks of their travel plans in depth and are easily influenced by social media. Studies by Condor Ferries, a ferry and cruise company in the UK, found that 90 per cent of them have their international travel decisions influenced by social media content. Furthermore, many youths will be travelling for the first time without their parents or teachers to look out for them. Their lack of exposure in travelling independently results in them having less experience in managing any potential risks by themselves.

Dr Low Kiang Wei, Medical Director (Singapore), International SOS adds: “As highlighted in International SOS’ Risk Outlook 2023, looking beyond COVID-19, emerging global issues, such as rising levels of social unrest and the growing impact of climate change, are an additional dimension of worry for youths exploring independent travel. As these issues are likely to stay for the long term, we must equip our youths with the necessary capabilities to deal with these issues.”

The podcast will also feature local university students who have recently gone on overseas trips and are willing to share more about their travel experiences. The series will cover six topics with relevant subject matter experts addressing the risks associated with these topics.

Bala Selvam, Regional Security Manager, International SOS, adds: “By getting the youths to highlight their own experiences and concerns over six different topics, it allows the subject matter experts to address real risks based on the youths’ authentic experiences. It also ensures that youths are provided with holistic advice through the different topics and episodes. This helps the youth to address their checklist of concerns as they plan for their first independent trip.”

To help youths explore travelling independently in a safe manner, the six episodes will cover the following topics:

  1. Staying Safe While Saving Money – Dissecting traditional and shared economy options for travel accommodation and transportation with the focus on how young people can balance staying safe while saving money.
  2. How Extreme Weather Puts Your Trip At Risk – What you need to know about health and safety risks of natural disasters and extreme weather
  3. Caught Up In Crowds – Keeping yourself safe in crowded environments, know the signs and how to protect yourself.
  4. Let’s Party Safely – The medical and security risks of substance ingestion, such as alcohol and drugs, while overseas.
  5. Mental Wellness While Abroad – Unpacking the emotional journey of going abroad to a new environment – how one can cope and seek support.
  6. When Sharing Becomes Dangerous – The potential dangers of sharing of personal details and itinerary while abroad, both online and offline.

Do tune in to the podcast series and I am very sure many will find the topics helpful and insightful for safe travels!

Malaysia is a great place to travel to. With a rich history, a beautiful climate, and quick links to neighbouring countries Singapore and Thailand, it’s an excellent destination for anyone wanting to travel. 

When choosing somewhere to stay, your budget will be a big deciding factor. 

For those on a lower budget, hostels are a safe choice. These low-cost living spaces offer you a bed – and not too much else. But, if you are an adventurous person who likes to spend all day exploring, all you really need is a bed. 

For families wanting somewhere safe to bed down, with enough space for children, renting a house or apartment for the period of time you are there is the best way forward. When it comes to apartments, Malaysia offers two options – condominiums and serviced apartments. Condominiums provide full facilities, security, and parking. Serviced apartments offer the same, plus housekeeping facilities, bellboy services, and room service, just like a hotel. 

For those looking for more luxury, a penthouse, loft, or duplex can be a great choice. Penthouses are the top unit of a residential high-rise. For this reason, a penthouse will offer you beautiful views. They often take up the whole or half of the floor, affording you space and privacy. Plus, you get to feel super unique, as there is only one penthouse in any high-rise. Lofts and duplexes are similar but are often two-story living spaces in a high-rise. To visualize the difference between these housing forms, check out the infographic below.

We were supposed to be travelling to Taiwan for our Babymoon but due to the recent Novel Coronavirus, we changed our plans and decided to go to Bintan instead. 

However, if you are more adventurous and would like to take advantage of this opportunity to travel (because flight tickets are now pretty cheap), you can make your flight booking easy by doing a quick search online and you might find Tigerair flight ticket to be quite value for money for short-haul regional trips.

It has been more than 18 years since I last visited Bintan and the only memory that I have of Bintan was going on a simple family vacation trip to Club Med where I joined the Kids Club and was involved in activities such as archery, flying trapeze, sailing, and many more. 

Currency/Costs 

Many people tend to think that Bintan is a pretty expensive place and we don’t deny that because if you mainly hang around the Bintan Resort Areas for the entire duration of your trip; it is definitely going to be super expensive because of the additional 10% service charge and 11% government tax. What that means is that for every $10 you spend at the Bintan Resort Area, you actually spend  $12.10. This amount could add up quite a fair bit if you are a big spender. 

Just so you know, the currency being used here is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) and not the USD. 

Our Accommodation 

We put up at The Anmon Resort Bintan for 3 Days 2 Nights and it costs us $333.79 after some promotional discounts on Agoda.  

There were a couple of reasons why we chose to stay at The Anmon Resort Bintan: 

  • The Anmon Resort Bintan is relatively new and they opened their doors to welcome guests since 2019. During our stay there, we heard that their official opening is going to take place sometime in March 2020. 
  • Glamping has been a way of life for us whenever we travel abroad. From our first glamping experience at Lake Shoji, Japan to our second glamping experience at Otiake, New Zealand (we haven’t blogged about this yet); we have been searching for our next glamping adventure and The Anmon Resort Bintan was just the perfect answer! 
  • The Anmon Resort Bintan is within walking distance to Treasure Bay and the new Marine Life Discovery Park. The deluxe teepee-style glamping tent that we stayed at was just a 5-minute walk to the new Marine Life Discovery Park. 
  • Shuttle service is provided to-and-fro the Ferry Terminal and The Anmon Resort Bintan. The Ferry Terminal and The Anmon Resort Bintan is just a 8-minute drive away. 

Our Deluxe Teepee-Style Glamping Tent 

Every glamping tent is air-conditioned and comes with an enclosed patio and a private ensuite bathroom. Just so you know, the private ensuite bathroom was something that our previous glamping experiences did not offer so this is where The Anmon Resort Bintan stands out. 

Also, the WiFi connection is amazingly strong and stable throughout the resort. We were expecting the Internet connection to drop at some point but it did not and we suppose one of the key reasons for that is because The Anmon Resort Bintan operates an intuitive Digital Concierge feature that runs on an AI platform to provide guests a 24-hour access to information. Through the Digital Concierge, you can request for toiletries, in-room dining service and many more. 

In case you are wondering, the glamping tent can also sleep up to 4 guests (bedding provided at no additional costs); hence, making it perfect for families with children. 

An access card is required to enter the tent and a safe is provided in every tent to store any valuables or belongings. There is also a mini-bar fridge available to keep all your drinks chilled. We must say, the service at The Anmon Resort Bintan is top notch and very personalised. We totally enjoyed our accommodation experience and will highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a unique dessert-themed glamping place to stay at. 

The Anmon Resort Bintan Facilities and Amenities 

The Anmon Resort Bintan has a full-service restaurant known as the Compass Rose Restaurant and this is where the daily buffet breakfast is served. Personally, we felt that the daily buffet spread did not offer much variety as compared to the experiences that we had in Batam.

An average meal at the Compass Rose Restaurant costs about $18 and if you are in the mood for some Shisha and Bintang Beer, it will cost you $37 and $11 respectively.

One area that The Anmon Resort Bintan impressed us the most was the outdoor alfresco area where you can just unwind and watch a movie while you sip a glass of margarita.

If that does not help to cool you down, you can have a splashing good time at the outdoor container “swimming pool” that is situated just next to the outdoor alfresco area.

The Places and Activities That We Visited and Did 

Treasure Bay 

There are tons of activities that you can do at Treasure Bay; from Bouncy Castle, Slip & Slide, Stand-Up Paddling, and Kayaking to Riding the ATV and Setting off Some Fireworks.

If you buy the 1-day Adult Pass that cost $75 SGD, it includes Slip & Slide, Cable Tube, Mangrove Pontoon Tour, Use of Giant Floats, Lagoon Kayaking, Paddle Boat, ATV, Rodeo Bull, 2-Wheeler Transport, Beach Volley Ball and Beach Soccer. 

For us, we prefer to go a-la-carte because there are more options that are not included in the 1-day adult pass and we also like the flexibility of choosing what we wanted to do.

If you’re a sporty person, the 1-day pass might just be more suitable for you. However, if water sports ain’t your cup of tea, you would be better off with the a-la-carte options. 

Scooting Around Treasure Bay & The Anmon Resort Bintan 

We rented an electric scooter for about $30 to get around Treasure Bay and The Anmon Resort Bintan. Although there is a buggy service that’s available, having an electric scooter makes it very convenient as it saves waiting time. Furthermore, it also allows for many interesting photo stops along the way.

Seafood Dinner @ Kampoeng Kelong Seafood Restaurant 

To get to Kampoeng Kelong Seafood Restaurant, a transport was arranged to fetch us from The Anmon Resort Bintan to the Mangrove area where we then had to take a speedboat to get to the Kelong Restaurant. The setting is rather tranquil, serene and we highly recommend it. 

There are also other Kelong Restaurants within the vicinity but we chose Kampoeng Kelong Seafood Restaurant because of its more reasonable pricing.

Although we ordered small portions, our entire dinner which comprises of cockles, butter prawns, seafood fried rice, sambal kangkong, hotplate tofu, and mushroom soup was enough for up to 4 persons and it costs us $80.

Adventure Mangrove Night Tour

We went on an Adventure Mangrove Night Tour that cost us $16 per person and although the entire experience was a safe and pleasant one; we were slightly disappointed as there weren’t that many fireflies.

If you really want a magical experience, the best time to go for this would be between April to June and also, choose a New Moon Phase and not a Full Moon Phase. It can be very distracting to spot some fireflies especially when the moon is fully illuminated.

Sky Lantern and Fireworks

An option to light up a Sky Lantern or set off some fireworks at the main activity centre and if you are planning for a surprise marriage proposal; this is just the perfect setting for it after the magical Adventure Mangrove Night Tour.

The Impromptu Half Day Tour to Tanjung Pinang 

We had a whole day to ourselves and we were deciding how best to spend our time. Hence, we decided to go on an impromptu half-day tour to Tanjung Pinang. The private transportation costs us about SGD$92 for 6 hours and entrance fees to some of the attractions are not included.

Here are some places of interest that we visited during the half day tour:

Gurun Pasir Bintan

Gurun Pasir Bintan (also known as Bintan Desert) is the perfect place to get some Instaworthy shots. The entrance fee costs $4 per person and you can be there for as long as you like.

We advise that you bring along a hat, a tripod, and some sunscreen protection as it can get scorching hot.

Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha (Guan Yin Temple

There are no entrance fees to the temple and it houses one of the tallest statues of the Goddess of Mercy (Guan Yin) in Southeast Asia (this grand and majestic brass statue is 16.8m tall and is coated in 22 carat gold).

What is also interesting about the temple is that it has a dragon fruit plantation that sits right at the front of the temple.

Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisatvva (500 Lohan Temple)

Entrance fees to the 500 Lohan Temple costs $3 per person and the temple compounds are mightily impressive and big. Although the highlight of the temple is the 500 life-sized Lohan/Arhat stone statues (each with intricate physique and facial expressions that is different from the next), some visitors might consider the gigantic Buddha statue at the entrance of the temple to be the highlight instead.

Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market 

We reached Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market at about 1600 hours and we were hoping to see if we could get any souvenirs to bring back.

However, many shops were closed and our driver told us that the best day/time to visit would be in the morning during the weekends. Hence, it was pretty much a missed opportunity for us.

Tanjung Pinang Mall 

As there were nothing much that we could do or see at Tanjung Pinang Traditional Market, we asked our driver to bring us to a mall in Tanjung Pinang where we could do some shopping.

Our driver chose to bring us to Ramayana and honestly, there was nothing much that we could shop for over there. If you really want to do some serious shopping in Tanjung Pinang, head to Tanjung Pinang City Centre instead.

Marine Life Discovery Park

On the last day of our Bintan trip before returning Singapore, we visited the Marine Life Discovery Park (MLDP) that is just a 5-minute walk away from our glamping tent.

The MLDP is a rather new attraction where visitors can learn more about marine life through snorkelling, diving, or touch-pool activities and entrance fees cost $15 per person.

When we were there, some parts of the Marine Life Discovery Park were still under construction and though we managed to do some snorkelling; it was not a pleasant experience as it was really slippery and murky.

At the touch-pool, there are starfishes, sea snails and a baby shark which we had a chance to interact with and we also got to see some sea turtles.

There is also an integrated mangrove and aviary where we learnt about the flora and fauna that forms an integral part of the region’s marine life ecosystem.

Overall

We had a great time in Bintan and we definitely look forward to visiting again!

It’s been more than a year since we last visited Batam and during our most recent trip that took place last week, we noticed that there were a couple of changes that took place in Batam and it is about time that we refresh our travel guide to Batam.

Read on and get the latest update and information about Batam here in this post!

Travelling Within Batam- Grab/Private Driver

In the past, we mentioned that it was easy to travel around Batam by booking a taxi (Blue Bird or Silver Cab). However, It seems that booking a taxi that goes by the meter is no longer the way to go because there are now taxi counters located at major landmarks i.e. Batam Centre Ferry Terminal, Batam Megamall, Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall and etc. Legit taxi companies that run on meters like Blue Bird or Silver Cab are now not allowed to pick up passengers at these major landmarks and it is so disappointing that things have turned out this way because it is really not helping the taxi industry as a whole.

Just so you know, the taxi counters at these major landmarks charge 3 times more the usual price to get around Batam. You can still book a metered taxi like Blue Bird but do note that you will have to walk to the designated/authorised pick-up points which can be some distance away.

Although you can use Grab to get around, do be a little cautious as you don’t want to end up getting into a situation like this. If you want to use Grab, make sure that your pick up location has got no taxi counters around and that there isn’t a line of parked taxis idling.

If you were to ask us for our opinion on how best you can get around Batam, we suggest that you hire a private driver for the entire day. This way, you can save money and time, cover more grounds and visit more places.

Data SIM Card

A lot of our local Telcos like StarHub are offering affordable Data Roaming rates at SGD$5 for one GB of data. If you’re heavily dependent on data like us, one GB is definitely not enough and we would rather you get the Indonesian Data Sim Card which costs SGD$7 for 6GB worth of data.

Our Accommodation- Best Western Premier Panbil Hotel

It was our second time staying at Best Western Premier Panbil and this time around, we booked for an Executive Room that costs $112.15 a night, inclusive of breakfast for two persons. But of course, if you prefer a private enclave, you definitely should check out Batam Villas

The Executive Room

The comfortable 53 square metres room features a choice of king or twin size bed with 55-inch flat screen television, safe deposit box, and complimentary mini bar.  Although the bathroom is very spacious and is equipped with a bathtub, I was pretty hesitant about using it because when I turned on the bathtub tap, brownish water came out of it and I didn’t want to soak myself in murky waters. If you want mesmerising views, be sure to request a room that overlooks Duriangkang Lake & Forest! You will probably enjoy the large room space that comes along with a living room and a kitchenette.

The Hotel Facilities i.e Swimming Pool, Restaurant, Rooftop Bar

If you have the habit of doing some morning exercises to kickstart your day, you will be pleased to know that the hotel has an infinity pool that overlooks the mesmerising Duriangkang Lake and if you like to do some weightlifting, the hotel has a fitness centre equipped with a basic setup for you to pump some iron.

Best Western Premier Panbil’s full-service restaurant, Andaliman Restaurant, serves Asian and International specialities, including buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Compared to other hotels that we have stayed at in Batam, the buffet breakfast spread at Best Western Premier Panbil is one of the best that we have tried and tasted. Offering multicultural cuisines, from western-styled cereals and bakery goods to local cooked selections and fresh tropical fruits, we were pretty much spoilt for choices as there are also live stations for eggs, noodles, and even Japanese sushi too!

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One of the best spots that we like about the Best Western Premier Panbil hotel is the La Bella Vita Rooftop Bar that is located on the 15th floor of the hotel. Offering the best rooftop view in Batam, La Bella Vita Rooftop Bar serves a variety of alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages & Ala Carte Menu. If you were to ask us, Best Western Premier Panbil hotel is definitely one of the best for a group retreat or get-together session!

The Mini-Bus Shuttle Service

Best Western Premier Panbil offers a mini-bus shuttle service that accommodates hotel guests between the hotel and major landmarks such as Batam Centre Mega Mall and Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall. If you’re keen to use the mini-bus shuttle service to get around Batam, be sure to reserve your spot with the hotel staffs at the front desk/concierge desk as they get filled up pretty fast!

Book a stay at Best Western Premier Panbil here!

Our Preferred Massage & Spa Partner- Spa Central Batam @ Nagoya Hill

 

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This may sound bias but the folks at Spa Central Batam have been our long-time friend for many years now and it is always a pleasure for us to visit them whenever we’re in Batam.

There are plenty of massage and spa operators in Batam and it can be quite hard to decide which one to go because there are just so many options. Now, if you haven’t been to Batam or if you have been frequenting Batam but you haven’t found the perfect massage and spa place, may we suggest that you consider Spa Central Batam @ Nagoya Hill?

Spa Central Batam has got two outlets; one in Sukajadi (Batam Centre) and the other in Nagoya Hill. If Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall is part of your itinerary, you might want to consider including a massage and spa session at Spa Central Batam (Nagoya). With sessions as short as 30 minutes to a long session that can occupy you for half a day; there are a lot of options for you to choose from.

Why we love Spa Central Batam @ Nagoya?

Firstly, Spa Central Batam @ Nagoya is Spa Central Batam’s latest outlet and the entire spa experience is designed from scratch. Owned by a Singaporean couple, you can expect 5-star service and treatment, all at a very affordable price! For the Top-to-Toe spa package lasting 4.5 hours that we experienced, it costs only about S$145 per person and it consists of a foot bath, 90-minute aromatherapy massage, 30-minute body scrub, 60-minute hair spa, 60-minute facial, 30-minute foot reflexology and a lunch main course with a drink!

 

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Secondly, the massage and spa therapists are all professionally trained and the ambience is really soothing, cosy, and clean. With a social mission to equip women and single mothers with massage therapy skills to make a living and help them break out of the poverty cycle, be rest assured that the money you spend at Spa Central Batam will go towards charitable causes.

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Last but not least, all you married couples with children/toddlers can now rejoice! Spa Central Batam @ Nagoya will soon be equipped with childcare facilities that will keep your children engaged and occupied so that both of you can enjoy a temporary respite from the busyness of life while indulging in a pampering spa massage and therapy session.

The Number 1 Restaurant in Batam- Anchor Café and Roastery

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Anchor Café and Roastery has overtaken Bella Italia Restaurant as the number 1 Restaurant in Batam on TripAdvisor. Offering a hearty menu that comprises appetisers, main courses and desserts; Anchor Café and Roastery should definitely be on the itinerary for Café Hoppers.

 

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When we were there, we had their All-Day Breakfast Sets, Chicken Tenders, a Lemon Meringue Pie, and a cup of Mocha Coffee. The portions are really huge and for the price that we paid, we felt that it was pretty worth it. Furthermore, Anchor Café and Roastery’s coffees are really exceptional because the owner has built direct trade relationships with coffee farmers throughout Indonesia.

The Best Souvenir to Get in Batam- Kueh Lapis

 

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Layer Cakes (Kueh Lapis) remain the best souvenir to get in Batam and the best place to get it would be Diana Layer Cakes. They don’t take in orders through Facebook anymore but you can still drop by their place or give them a call. For a 1KG layer cake from Diana Layer Cakes, the cost is about S$25 and it is one third the price of what you can get in Singapore.

Well, we hope that this refreshed guide to Batam has been helpful and if you have any questions for us, don’t hesitate to drop us an email or comment.

So you’re finally going on a trip, eh? You’re finally leaving your comfort zone. Well, good! The world’s your oyster, one that you open with your passport. There’s plenty to discover and more to experience.

But before you fly off to lands unknown, learn a few things first; for knowledge is power, and it may well save your life.

Here are a few crucial things that you should know before you travel the world.

Check Your Gear

Prep time is half the fun of travelling. There’s a certain kind of excitement that experienced travellers get when browsing stores for stuff they’ll bring on their next trip. You may feel that too, once you rack up some mileage on your visa.

That said, prepping your gear isn’t just for fun. It’s also for your own good.

You’ll be a stranger in an unfamiliar land, and the commodities and conveniences of home will no longer be within your reach, particularly when going to areas untamed by civilisation, to meadows and groves where you commune with nature and soul.

Often, you’ll have just yourself and your favourite weekender bag, and its contents, to rely on.

Thus, make it a habit to check your gear, days before your trip. Go over your pack, and review what you need and what you don’t need. Packing too much can unnecessarily burden you; packing too little may leave you stranded somewhere without even basic necessities like food or water and without the hope of rescue.

Check the Culture

One of the many things that can fumble a traveller’s stride is the culture shock. It’s usually the first gale that greets one so used to the comforts of home. The impact can strike so overwhelmingly and so frustratingly that one can become homesick in a matter of days.

Experiencing how other people live in other parts of the world is part of the fun in travelling. But if you don’t do your research in advance, you could be on the receiving end of sudden culture shock. Then all your preparations will be for nought as you hurry to book a return flight home.

What you see in the movies isn’t always the truth; it’s often embellished by false fluff for production value. You expected the romances of Casablanca but then get chased by bulls in Pamplona. You expected Mickey Mouse, but it was actually Dio.

So be a smart tourist. Be informed. Do a quick search about where you’re going. Read up on the news from your destination, and set proper expectations so you’ll be prepared for the reality.

Check the Weather

Lastly, check the general weather and environment of your itinerary. It’s not always sunny in Philadelphia; storms can come a-knockin’ too. That’s part of life. But if you don’t prepare for such times, it may be the death of you.

This may seem like it’s part of common sense, but it’s still too vital to be left unsaid. Not anticipating bad weather can ruin a good time. Worse yet, your chiselled-for-the-beach body may get wet not because of the sea but because you’re sweating under the 34.4 degrees Celsius average temperature of Ethiopia.

Keep yourself up-to-date on the weather around your target destination/s. Download an app so that you can check anytime and make adjustments accordingly.

Envoi: Bon Voyage!

The fundamental point of all these things is to be prepared. As mentioned earlier, prep time is half the fun of travelling.

Be a smart traveller and prepare well. Check the three items noted above, and you’ll get the most out of your time abroad. Make sure to book airport transportation from a reliable Car service company if you are scheduled to catch a flight!

Travelling solo as a woman can be rather daunting. But the reality is, there are many women who travel solo and are more independent and confident because of it!

Courtesy of YOTEL Singapore, here are the top 5 must-dos for ladies who are embracing solo travelling for the first time:

1.  Stay In Touch & Connected

When you’re travelling alone, it’s always important to keep your loved ones updated on your whereabouts. Dealing with a bad connectivity or limited internet access can be frustrating, especially during talk time, so be sure to check your lodging’s internet capabilities. YOTEL Singapore, for instance, offers unlimited and super-strength WIFI for all guests – so, you won’t have to worry about the internet being patchy when you on a video call with mum.

(Image by Bruce Mars)

2.  Location! Location! Location!

We all know that picking a good location to stay is important, but even more so when you’re travelling alone for the first time. Staying in a city centre can definitely help you feel more secure, and it’s a great spot that’s typically walking distance from public transport. Take YOTEL Singapore for example, it’s situated in the heart of Singapore’s shopping district and just minutes away from buses and trains – easy peasy!

(Image by Kaique Rocha)

3.  Be A Smart Packer & Pack Light

Packing light doesn’t mean looking like a hobo, you can still take your cute outfits along, but striking a balance is key! Pack a good mix of clothes and shoes suitable for activities that you’re planning to do – adventures, nightlife or a trip to the museum – and bring pieces that you can mix and match to wear them in more than one way. Rolling your clothes instead of folding them is also another great way to save on baggage space. And of course, apart from a girl’s beauty essentials, skip the shampoo, soap and conditioner which hotels like, YOTEL, readily provide.

(Image by naina.co)

4.  Always Have A Plan B

Ask any seasoned traveller and they’ll tell you that nothing ever goes to plan. Be it getting lost or going to a museum that happens to be closed, it’s always important to be prepared and have a Plan B so that you don’t waste time researching during your trip. Also remember to always keep important names, addresses and numbers on hand – grabbing the hotel’s business card at the reception is a quick way to do this and it certainly comes in super handy if you don’t speak the local language.

(Image by @theoccasionaltraveller)

5.  Embrace Meeting New People!

Travelling solo doesn’t have to be lonely. There are always plenty of opportunities to make new friends while you’re exploring a new city. The best place to start could even be in your hotel lobby! Have a chat with them and who knows, maybe you’ll end up exploring the city together. You could also join a tour to mingle with other tourists or join online travel communities like Meetup or Facebook groups to see if they organise events in the area that you’re travelling to. By the end of your trip, you’d have met a whole new bunch of people!

(Image of Mission Control, by YOTEL Singapore)

Last but not least, always trust your gut. If you’ve got a sinking feeling that something isn’t right, then it probably isn’t, so always be on your guard!  

Psst… I just have to share this with you!

Guests looking to book with YOTEL can register for a membership that will save at least 10% each time they book their stay in New York, Boston and Singapore. Membership is simple and easy, with no blackout dates and no restrictions – all you need to do is just sign up here.

Indonesia.

Is it a place you currently have on your bucket list of countries to visit?

With some of the most beautiful destinations and places to see and experiences to have, it’s easy to understand why so many people would like to go there at least once in their lifetime. There are of course other popular destinations such as Jakarta or Bali that many of us would have already heard of but while there are other places to see and many things to do in the region; here are some tips that could come in handy if you ever decide to visit Indonesia. So if you are looking for everything that you would need to know about your next holiday to Indonesia, read on to find out more.

The Places To Visit

Indonesia as a region may have been on your bucket list, but where should you go? 

There are many popular destinations within Indonesia that are worth considering. From beaches to city vibes, I thought I would share with you some of them.

Bali

If you think Indonesia, chances that the next word to pop into your head will be Bali. One of the most popular destinations in Indonesia, Bali really needs no introduction but I am going to tell you a little bit about it anyway. Bali has long been a place for people to take vacations, thanks to the wonderful luxurious resorts that adorn the sparkly shoreline. Even then, there are also many backpackers and tourists who are on a shoestring budget but still taking in the beauty of this destination. Bali is certainly a place that rocks many buckets lists for sure. If you are looking for a more ancient Bali vibe, heading north will give you all of the thrills.

Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia that is home to more than nine million people, is a sprawling city. Many people use Jakarta as a pit stop for a few days of fun and sightseeing before heading off to some of the more remote islands or the popular resort of Bali. The Kota Tui Old Town in Jakarta is definitely worth a visit. If you are planning to buy a property in Jakarta, websites like https://rumahdijual.com/gedung-dijual might be helpful. Jakarta is definitely worthy of a stop before heading somewhere for a bit of relaxation, but don’t forget that it is also a great hub for business and investment opportunities.

 

Gili Islands

Want a tropical paradise, then look no further than the Gili Islands. A trio of islands between Lombok and Bali, these little gorgeous nuggets of tranquillity are not to be missed. The two smaller islands, Gili Air and Gili Meno, are quite secluded and laidback whereas the larger of the three, Gili Trawangan, is a much livelier place to see. A real hive for backpackers, the rustic bars at Gili Islands is filled with a mix of cultures and people from all over the globe.

Lombok

Hate following the crowds? Then Lombok is the next best alternative to the ever-popular Bali. Despite its growing popularity in recent decades, most of the Eastern Island in Lombok is still underdeveloped, which makes it a real beauty for some tranquillity. With less of the commercialised bars, clubs and restaurants, and more of the rustic and simple features, Lombok is a great place if you are after some time of pure thinking space with no distractions other than the beautiful weather and ocean. 

When Should You Travel To Indonesia?

One of the big considerations when travelling to Indonesia is the weather; thus make sure you travel during the best season. The best time to visit Indonesia is between May and September where the days are dry and sunny. Websites like https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/weather are especially helpful should you need more information about the current local weather in Indonesia.

The Best Things To Do In Indonesia

For some people, a holiday is often just about finding a decent sun lounger with a bar close by in a great beach resort. There is nothing wrong with that and as we have already pointed out, destinations like Bali would suit that kind of holiday style. However, if you want to see and do some of the more popular things, here are some suggestions:

Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is part of a collection of volcanoes that are active and is part of the Tengger Massif. It isn’t the tallest of them, but it is certainly one of the most well-known and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Indonesia. Sitting at 7,641ft high, it is certainly something to be marvelled at and definitely worthy of a visit.

Ubud

If you are looking for something cultural, then look no further than the heart of Bali. Nestled against the stunning terraced rice fields, which are also a sight to behold, Ubud holds dance and musical performances in the city daily. If you want to learn about the Balinese culture, Ubud is definitely the place.

Borobudur

Finally, no trip would be complete without heading to the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur. Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty, the temple design follows Javanese Buddhist architecture, which blends the Indonesian indigenous cult of ancestor worship and the Buddhist concept of attaining Nirvana. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Borobudur is Indonesia’s single most visited tourist attraction.

While some people may be put off from travelling as far as Indonesia for a holiday, it is certainly worth the long journey. With so much to see and do, you may end up feeling like one holiday there won’t be enough. Couples, backpackers, students on GAP years or even families will all benefit from some of the amazing things this region has to offer. I certainly think it should definitely be a place for you to consider visiting in the future.

Lagardère Travel Retail Singapore is delighted to partner Belgian chocolatier Godiva to stage the extraordinary Chocolate Fashion Show in Changi Airport Terminal 2 transit, in conjunction with the launch of Godiva Gold Discovery, the chocolatier’s latest luxury collection. The Chocolate Fashion Show presents three astonishing dresses created by contemporary designer Anne-Sophie Cochevelou, which combine state-of-the-art fashion and representations of Godiva’s iconic chocolate boxes, including the new Gold Discovery Collection.

The first-ever staging in an Airport, the presentation promises to elevate the travel retail experience and introduce stunning fashion masterpieces to travellers from all over the world. Visitors to Changi Airport can look forward to shopping for decadent chocolates and at the same time, be delighted by Godiva’s artistry and creativity.   

 Image credit: Anthony Lycett
Image credit: Anthony Lycett

The Tradition to Modernity Showpiece Dress is displayed artistically on a static mannequin that can be admired from all angles by passing shoppers and travellers. Classic Gold Collection boxes edge the hem; the skirt is formed by triangular brown godets, and the bodice of Godiva Coeur-like lace; an array of new Gold Discovery boxes form the collar, and imitation chocolates decorate the headpiece.

 Image credit: Anthony Lycett
Image credit: Anthony Lycett

The Empress Dress, with bustles of Gold Discovery boxes and garlands of chocolates, adorns a model in a photo booth to encourage shoppers to pose for a free instant photo ‘wearing’ the dress, upon purchase of a box of Gold Discovery or two boxes of Gold Ballotin.

 Image credit: Anthony Lycett
Image credit: Anthony Lycett

The Heart of the Collection Dress is decorated ingeniously with Coeur Grand and Iconique gift boxes. Around the stage are beautiful displays of Godiva Gold Discovery, where a trained hostess engages with shoppers and offers samples during peak times.

This collaboration is a tripartite partnership between Changi Airport Group, Lagardère Travel Retail Singapore and Godiva. The Chocolate Fashion Show is located at Terminal 2 transit and will be exhibited from 20 January 2018 to 28 February 2018.

Godiva Gold Discovery is a 28-piece collection of ganaches, pralines, mousses and caramels, including two delicious new pieces, presented in a contemporary gold gift box embossed with the signature ‘G’ and the Lady Godiva emblem. Tied with a gold satin ribbon and decorated with a refined hangtag, the collection is the epitome of premium gifting.

The ganaches are in sumptuous flavours of passion fruit & pink pepper, white chocolate & bourbon vanilla, intense coffee, raspberry rose, and 85% dark chocolate. The luxurious caramels are chocolate caramel and salted caramel.

The elderberry mousse and the lychee strawberry mousse in the collection are joined by a delicious new Mexican origin chocolate mousse.

Among the pralines is an exotic new pistachio praline which sits alongside the signature hazelnut pralines in white and milk chocolate, an almond praline with whole roasted almond, the hazelnut praline with caramelised macadamia nuts, and a caramelised pecan praline.

Retailing at SGD$102.20 (Duty-Free Price), the Godiva Gold Discovery will be available in selected SO Chocolate and The Chocolatier shops in Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 transit.

Have you noticed how popular travelling has become today and do you have any idea as to why it has become so popular?

Well, first things first!

Who doesn’t love seeing new places? Who doesn’t love meeting new people? Who doesn’t love experiencing new cultures?

If you thought to yourself- I don’t like any of that stuff… than travelling might not be the thing for you. But if you thought to yourself… I LOVE all of that stuff, then you are about to learn how traveling to new places is about to change your life for the better.  

Some people may feel a little overwhelmed the moment they leave their house. Some might feel anxious and some might feel scared. It’s not as easy for some people as it is for others. It all depends on your comfort level around new people and in new places.

But really, how will it change your life?

Surrounding oneself in a new place and around new people who speak a completely different language than you can be really exhilarating. You even might find yourself questioning what you are doing there but I can assure you that you are there to experience life in a new way. When you put yourself out of your comfort zone, fun things start to happen. Most of all, you learn that experiences are far more valuable then immaterial things.

The quote, “Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer” holds so much truth. Not only does travelling make you richer with experience but it also teaches you new perspectives and keeps your mind open to different ways of life.

No place in this world is the same. In every country; there are different beliefs, religions, and cultures. Exploring different places will help you open your mind and be more accepting of others.

Ready to travel?

Book your tickets and hotels, pack your bags and GO!

If you’re looking for ideas and ways to finance a trip, you should check out ineedmoneyasap.com 

Although Jacqueline and I often frequent Northern and Central Taiwan, we haven’t had the luxury of time to explore the Southern part of Taiwan yet and boy were we glad when we were presented with an opportunity to travel to Southern Taiwan.

In this blog post, we present our unofficial travelogue to Kenting, Taiwan’s best spot for summer activities!

Flight

We took a direct flight from Singapore to Kaohsiung via Scoot and it took less than 4.5 hours. In case you’re wondering, it cost us SGD$548 for two adult return trip tickets and Scoot remains our preferred budget airline for short haul trips! Why Kaohsiung International Airport? Well, it’s the most convenient way to get to Kenting.

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Travelling to Kenting

Upon arriving at Kaohsiung International Airport, we took the southbound bus to Kenting which cost NT$309 (about SGD$14.40) per person for a one-way trip. As the travel duration from Kaohsiung International Airport to Kenting is about 2.5 hours, do stock up on some food and snacks at the convenience shops before taking the long bus ride.

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Just like any other ordinary buses, the seats are comfortable and spacious enough; just don’t expect it to have the services and comfort level of a coach.

Our Accommodation in Kenting

We decided to put up at Kenting Nanwan Resort and we had a room that has a fabulous view of the sea and it even comes with a gigantic bathtub. The accommodation cost NT$9200 (approximately SGD$426) for 2 nights and the rate is inclusive of breakfast.

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If you are planning to celebrate your wedding anniversary or honeymoon, Kenting Nanwan Resort is definitely an accommodation to consider because of its Santorini-styled and nautical-themed rooms.

One of the main reason why we chose Kenting Nanwan Resort was because it is located quite close to a couple of attractions in Kenting.

Travelling Around Kenting

I was told that I could rent a small 50CC scooter from a rental shop even if I do not have a motorcycle license but I decided to just rent an electric scooter (from Kenting Nanwan Resort) to help us get around Kenting instead; since getting into trouble with the law isn’t something that is on my bucket list.

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The rental came with a spare battery and the electronic scooter could hit a speed of up to 30km/hour. But of course, opening the throttle all the way isn’t a good idea as it also drains the battery quite a fair bit. If you haven’t ridden a scooter before, I strongly suggest that you get around Kenting via the public transport instead. You wouldn’t want to risk your adventure becoming a misadventure as the traffic there can be quite hard to navigate around if you’re not an experienced rider.

Also, the weather in May can be really hot and we suffered some pretty nasty sunburns from being exposed when riding around Kenting. Hence, do have your sunscreen protection on before you start riding around!

As usual, Google Maps remains our preferred GPS and mapping system to get around.

Places of Interest Around Kenting

To be honest, Kenting is a place that we will visit again because 2 nights really isn’t enough to cover all the attractions that we had planned to visit.

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During our 2 nights’ stay in Kenting, we visited the following places of interest and they are as follows:

Kenting Street Night Market

There is one main night market in Kenting and it is located at Kenting Main Street. Known as the Kenting Street Night Market, it is about 2KM long and you can expect large crowds of people especially during the weekends.

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Starting from Kenting National Park, the long line of food and game stands stretches to Caesar Park Hotel. There are some interesting food and souvenirs that you can find here and if you want a slice of Kenting’s nightlife, this is the place to be at because there are various bars and pub with various themes.

You might also come across some stalls that sell fireworks and sparklers and should you decide to purchase them; do note that it is illegal to set them off as and when you like. If you choose to buy the fireworks and sparklers and set them off; ignite them only at the open beach areas and at your own risk.

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What we personally enjoyed the most was the affordable and tasty street food and if you have forgotten to bring your beachwear, the shops at Kenting Main Street will have it. Kenting Street Night Market opens from 6 pm onwards till about 11 pm daily and if you don’t like big crowds, visit during the weekdays instead.

Eluanbi Lighthouse

Kenting’s best-known landmark is a still-functioning lighthouse that was built in the 1880s at Eluanbi Cape, the southernmost end of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range and inside Eluanbi Park. The park is a part of Kenting Forest Recreation Area and is served by a separate entrance. Eluanbi Park also features trails through vines and past massive coral rocks, a coastal walkway where locals go fishing, and lookout points.

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From November to March, the park opens from 9 am to 5 pm and from April to October, it opens from 9 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is NTD$60 (about SGD$2.80) for one person.

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Most Southern Point in Taiwan

Taiwan is not a big island. It takes only 1000 kilometres to circle the island. From the northernmost point, Fugui Cape to the southernmost point; it only takes nine to ten hours of driving and there is even a challenge of cycling from the northernmost lighthouse to the southernmost lighthouse in one day every year. The monument of Taiwan Southernmost Point is located between the famous Eluanbi Lighthouse and the ecological reserve area of Longkeng. Facing the ocean, the Pacific Ocean is on the left and the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and Philippine is on the right.

Paradise of Deer

We had great difficulty in finding this place when we were riding around but the effort was well worth it because we had the opportunity to get up close and personal with the Sika Deer! The admission cost NT$100 (about SGD$4.65) and it comes with coupons which you can use to exchange for souvenirs and as well as some feed for the Sika Deer.

The Sika Deer is also known as the spotted deer or the Japanese deer and it is a species of deer native to much of East Asia and introduced to various other parts of the world. For more information, check out Paradise of Deer’s Facebook Page!

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There are many other places that we wanted to visit in Kenting but because of the lack of time; we haven’t got the opportunity to do so and we will definitely consider a second visit again!

Got any questions? Drop us an email or leave your comments in the box below!