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In Editor's Picks 3 Mins Read

Have A Spectacular Mid-Autumn Celebration at VivoCity this September!

Looking to spend some quality time with your family and friends this Mid-Autumn festival?

Looking for the best spot to take some nice selfies and photos with your family and friends this Mid-Autumn festival?

Look no more because…

This Mid-Autumn, VivoCity and The Walt Disney Company Southeast Asia invite you to celebrate the love of family and friends and a month long of Disney magic under the starts with their Disney Tsum Tsum Mid-Autumn Celebration of Love.
Taking place from now till 30 September 2018 at VivoCity Sky Park Level 3, this Mid-Autumn celebration is a visual spectacle and a sight to behold, where over 2000 Tsum Tsum themed lanterns will light up the night sky. As one of Asia’s largest lantern installations, you can expect nights of revelry and festivities with your favourite Disney and Disney-Pixar Tsum Tsum characters.

Derived from the Japanese term meaning ‘to stack’, Disney Tsum Tsum is best loved for its range of collectible stuffed toys and mobile game, which are based upon the beloved characters from Disney. Conceptualised to reflect the different forms and expressions of love- couple love, family love and friendship love; this Mid-Autumn event showcases Disney Tsum Tsum themed Mid-Autumn lantern installations in four different zones at the VivoCity Sky Park.

Fairytale Garden

Mid-Autumn Festival 2018 @ VivoCity

Set in a magical and romantic garden, this area celebrates the love stories of five iconic Disney princesses. Journey with Snow White on a whimsical set featuring the dwarfs and their cottage. Hop onto the magic carpet and fly to the Arabian city of Agrabah to meet with Jasmine, Aladdin and Genie. Relive the romantic scene where Belle and Beast shared their first dance. Ride the Pumpkin Coach made for Cinderella by her Fairy Godmother. See Mulan in her Chinese pavilion and find her friends Li Shang and Mushu.

Tunnel of Love

Mid-Autumn Festival 2018 @ VivoCity

Stretching 40m long, the tunnel of love features Disney Tsum Tsum lanterns of over 30 different Disney and Pixar characters, many of whom have had iconic friendships that have lasted through the ages. Walk through this beautiful lit tunnel of stacked Disney and Disney Pixar Tsum Tsum lanterns and spot your favourite best pals like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, Buzz and Woody, Nemo and Dory, and Mike and Sully.

Wishing Wonderland

Mid-Autumn Festival 2018 @ VivoCity

 

Perched over the water, this area showcases the Ice Palace and the beloved sisters from Disney’s Frozen, Anna and Elsa as well as their friends Sven and Olaf. Celebrate the magic of family and release a Mid-Autumn Disney Tsum Tsum themed floating lantern wish at Disney’s Frozen themed wonderland. To pen down your wishes, simply head to TANGS Customer Service Counter at Level 1 and purchase a wishing card at $2. 100% of the gross proceeds will be donated to the Childen’s Cancer Foundation.

#CoupleGoals

10m tall and made out of 1500 lanterns, this larger-than-life centrepiece is an ode to the most loved Disney couple, Micky Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Celebrating their 90th anniversary this year, this is truly a love for the ages. This installation holds a new record in Asia Book of Records as the largest lantern sculpture.

Admission is FREE and if you’re planning an evening picnic, don’t forget to get your mooncakes from the VivoCity Atrium at Level 1 where there are more than 40 different exhibitors showcasing their mooncake offers!

So what are you waiting for?

Mark your calendars and spend some quality time with your family and friends at VivoCity this Mid-Autumn!

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In Business 4 Mins Read

Co-working Conundrums – A Guide to Singaporean Co-working Spaces

Singapore’s multi-ethnic, multi-lingual demographic contributes to the diversity that makes living and working in the country worth it. In addition, this diversity, the quality of life for professionals in the city is quite high with many earning a substantial salary. Throw in the many beautiful sites and diversions, and you have a country rife with opportunity and resources.

Furthermore, the business and residential landscapes support industry from around the world. Singapore’s coworking scene is looking to reinvent itself while incorporating more of life into many of its workspaces. With many variations on the coworking space, professionals working in the city or stopping in for a short while can find something to fit out their outfit.

Let’s take a look at what you need to know to get the most out of your coworking space in Singapore.

Contemporary Coworking

The typical coworking office places professionals in a shared space where they have the opportunity to rent a hot desk or a dedicated desk. Furthermore, professionals benefit from this low-cost alternative that provides them with office equipment and amenities. Take a look at Servcorp’s coworking Singapore’s site at http://www.servcorp.com.sg/en/coworking/ to view one version of the way coworking spaces operate.

Singapore’s take on the coworking space has grown to include spaces that cater to a variety of populations. Female-centred coworking spaces and industry-specific spaces offer a variety of perks including daycare for working parents and activities centred on professionally relevant topics. There are also spaces that focus on nurturing start-ups.

Sense Of Community

One of the most important aspects of the coworking space is the social interaction that it provides its occupants. While the purpose is to work, much of the networking that takes place in the community is the foundation of such businesses. The culmination of networking in the coworking space is usually connecting with mentors who act as a resource and collaborating with others in the space.

The collaboration is important because, if successful, can raise your business’s visibility in the Singapore business community. Furthermore, the collaboration is one way to learn about an array of industries while working toward business growth. Ultimately, when joining a space, consider whether the outfit has a sense of community.

Prime Location

Regardless of the industry, location is extremely important when looking for a space. In general, offices that are located near CBDs tend to offer businesses more in terms of access to resources and traffic. In Singapore, businesses that are near Marina Boulevard, Market Street, and other prime locations are attractive and prestigious. The benefit to coworking is because you are essentially paying for space on an as-needed basis, your rent is going to be drastically reduced.

Coworking Etiquette

Coworking is primed for social interaction and this social interaction is pretty much a part of Singaporean culture, as business relationships are founded on family ties and friendship. Even so, being overly social in the coworking space does have its drawbacks, namely, lack of productivity. To avoid offending others at work, avoid some of the following behaviours.

Most coworking spaces come with cafés and lounges, and so if networking or even just hanging out, seek those areas so that you will not distract others who might be working. Also, hot desking presents opportunities to spy on your neighbour’s work, which might be sensitive, so try not be too intrusive. Finally, if you need to listen to some music while working, bring your own earplugs so that you will not disturb your neighbours.

Finding Space In The Coworking Singapore

The coworking format in Singapore runs similar to most. However, professionals benefit from spaces that cater to their various needs while providing a community with their services. In your hunt for office space, consider the many opportunities, including networking, that a coworking space can offer your business.

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In Editor's Picks 3 Mins Read

Get Cheesy with Pizza Hut’s Cheesy 7 Pizza!

I have never been quite a fan of cheese and I can be very picky about the kind of cheesy products that I eat. Yes, cheese tarts are certainly not my cup of tea and likewise, mac & cheese as well. But well, things take a turn when it comes to Japanese Cheesecake, Swiss Cheese Fondue and Cheesy Pizzas.

Just a week ago, Pizza Hut Singapore launched their new Cheesy 7 Pizza and I was privileged to be one of the first few to try them!

The Delivery Service

I was pleasantly surprised when the delivery rider arrived 5 minutes earlier than the scheduled time. With lots of rampant complaints about food not being delivered on time by other service providers, I wasn’t expecting much but Pizza Hut has exceeded my expectations in terms of being punctual! As the saying goes, to be early is to be on time and to be on time is to be late.

Pizza Hut’s New Cheesy 7 Pizza

The next litmus test for Pizza Hut would be the overall quality, taste and texture of its new Cheesy 7 Pizza.

Having tried the Cheesy 7 Pizza, one word that I will use to describe the whole experience is, “Cheesilicious”. No, such a word doesn’t exist in the English dictionary but well, the whole experience is really cheesy and/plus delicious.

For those of you who don’t really enjoy the usual thick Cornicione (pronounced as “cor-nee-cho-nay”) that makes you so full; you will be happy to know that the Cornicione of Pizza Hut’s Cheesy 7 Pizza is pretty much 70% cheese and not so much of the “bread”. No, it’s not called the crust. The crust essentially refers to the bottom of the pizza and the circular ring surrounding the pizza is called the Cornicione.

The Cheesy 7 Pizza is truly a melding of nations and textures of cheese heaven, resulting in a harmony any cheese lover will savour.

And why is that so?

It’s because 7 best-loved cheeses from Switzerland, United Kingdom, Italy and the Netherlands have converged into the most delicious and crispy pan pizza that you can enjoy any time without breaking the bank!

In the case of Pizza Hut’s Cheesy 7 Pan Pizza, the alchemy of heat in the oven, melding the mild Swiss Emmental, the sharp and hard English Cheddar, the aromatic Italian Parmesan, the semi-hard Dutch Edam and Gouda, the pliant Italian Mozzarella, and rounding up with smooth English Cream cheese – the result is so much more than the mere sum of the 7 cheeses, but an indescribable taste and texture of pure ecstasy.

Regular 9″ Cheesy 7 pizza are available for dine-in at $23.50 and delivery or takeaway at $25.50. Large 12″ Cheesy 7 pizza are available for dine-in at $29.50 and delivery or takeaway at $33.20.

Since National Day is just around the corner, why not have a gathering of friends and family members and have a cheesy indulgent night out together? I promise you, it will not burn a big hole in your pocket!

Availability

The new Cheesy 7 Pan Pizza will be introduced in 2 phases:

From 26 July to 12 September, Cheese lovers can enjoy the Cheesy 7 Pizza available in Original, Hawaiian and Chicken Pepperoni variants.

From 13 September to 7 November 2018, Cheesy 7 Pizza will be launched in a new variant – Meaty Medley Trio, and Cheesy 7 Original will still be available.

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In Editor's Picks 3 Mins Read

Focusing on Health and Wellbeing When Going Through Big Life Changes

When you’re going through big life changes, it can be difficult finding the time, energy or motivation to look after yourself. However, failing to maintain your health and wellbeing is only going to make the situation worse.

Here, you’ll discover how to focus on your health and wellbeing when you’re going through difficult times.

Don’t Ignore Your Emotions

With any big life event, there’s a tendency to try and block out negative emotions. You push them to one side because you either don’t feel ready to deal with them, or you’re simply hoping they’ll magically disappear if you do. However, your emotions aren’t going to just go away purely because you push them to the back of your mind. They’ll still be there, ready to resurface at any given moment.

Holding on to negative emotions is extremely bad for the health. So, it’s crucial you start to deal with them as early as possible. The sooner you address your emotions, the sooner you’ll be able to eliminate those negative thoughts and feelings.

Make Sure You Have Plenty of Support

Whatever big change you’re going through, it’s really important to seek support. If it’s grief, seeing a grief counsellor can prove to be extremely beneficial. It won’t take the pain away, but it will help you to deal with your grief in a healthier manner. If you’re going through a divorce, seeking support from family and friends is crucial, along with a good divorce lawyer from a firm such as WithersWorldwide.

Surround yourself with as much positivity and support as you can. It will be much more difficult to take care of your health and wellbeing if you’re going through the change alone.

Make Exercise A Regular Part of Your Routine

One thing you’ll definitely want to continue is exercise. It’s the last thing you might feel like doing, but exercising regularly is known to combat depression. Even if you just do 5-10 minutes on the days where you’re really not feeling it, it’s going to make a huge difference to your overall health and wellbeing.

The healthier you feel, the happier you’ll ultimately feel. It will also lessen the emotional effects the traumatic life event is causing.

Overall, going through a major life event can be stressful and emotionally difficult. However, the above advice can really help you to ensure you don’t forget about your health and wellbeing throughout this difficult time.

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In Editor's Picks 6 Mins Read

Doing a Home Makeover? Here’s What You Can Do

There are some home makeovers that are time-consuming and costly while there are some that are quick, affordable, or don’t cost anything at all. No matter what you have in mind, a makeover is a simple way to transform your space to reflect your needs or to add improvements to an occupied space.

Here are some ideas and tips for your home makeover.

Reposition Furniture

If your living room or bedroom is looking kind of dull and you want a makeover that is quick but doesn’t cost money; you can reposition your existing furniture. Small items like mirrors and picture frames can be easily moved from place to place. You may need help from someone if you plan to move bigger furniture such as your sofa set or a heavy wingback furniture.

If you’re feeling up to it, you can even rearrange all the furniture in your house. If you think the table in the bedroom would look good in the dining room, then, by all means, put it there. There are no limits on how you can rearrange your furniture.

Update Furniture & Appliances

If you constantly move your furniture and appliances, you would know first-hand of their conditions. If you think your things have seen better days, it’s time to update them with newer things. Depending on your budget, you can choose to invest in worthwhile items like a bigger fridge, a better oven, and so on.

This is not only limited to appliances, you need to get new furniture if you need to. If one of your doors is looking dated and unreliable, you can replace it with newer ones with better locks. Speaking of locks, keys can be annoying to keep in one place and there’s the issue of giving everyone a copy for the front door and other rooms. If you find this bothersome, consider getting some skeleton keys so you can open any door in your house in case keys get lost.

New Paint

Breathe new life to your furniture by adding a fresh coat of paint to them. Whether you want to refresh a peeling cabinet or to match all furniture in one room, repainting is one of the easiest methods for a makeover. You can also make it fun by having the kids join in the colour of the paint and in the repainting.

Add a Bookshelf

If you own a lot of books and feel like it’s cluttering a part of your bedroom or the living room, a bookshelf is a practical answer. You can buy premade bookshelves but if you want to go through the DIY route, you can do so as well.

If you do decide to go through with making your own bookshelf, you can dedicate an entire wall for it. If you particularly have a lot of books and have a blank wall somewhere in your house, you can arrange it to hold your bookshelf and create your own little reading nook. Add some comforting decors like bean bags, chair or some blanket to make it homier and inviting.

Add a New Toilet

An extra toilet is great to have especially if you have a lot of family members who share the house. There may come a time for when you need to urgently use one but find that all the existing ones are in use. If you’re looking to turn your basement into a living space, it is a good idea to add a toilet in there as well.

Basement toilets are easier to install than you think because they don’t need extra piping. If you have sufficient knowledge of installing toilet systems, you can do it yourself. If not, it’s best to leave it to an experienced plumber.

Get New Bedding

We spend 1/3 of our lives asleep so it makes sense to put more effort into investing on what sleep on. A good quality bed may be an investment but it would mean the difference in getting the quality sleep your body needs. Even if you have the greatest bed in the world, you should also get new bedding once in a while including a duvet or a comforter. New bedding has a way of transforming or completing the look of your room.

 Add Something Living

If your theme allows it and if you feel like your space is suffocating, adding something living like houseplants should do the trick. Not only do they generate oxygen and purify the air on the inside, they are relaxing to look at as well. If you’re worried about upkeep, there are many low-maintenance houseplants you can get.

If you’re not feeling confident with your green thumb, you can have fake house plants instead. They introduce a pop of colour and can be used as a smart divider or something to be added to balance the elements of a room. Consider getting artificial flowers as well because they’re pretty to look and they can add aesthetics to any room.

Declutter and Organise

Purging your home of old and unwanted stuff can be cathartic. There’s something about throwing clutter that can be freeing and you end up tidying your house in the process as well. When you get rid of stuff you don’t need, it gets easier to see what things you need and do not need.

The freed-up spaces will give you ideas of what and what not to put. You can even start minimalism if you value the mantra of “less is more.” It gets easier to organize your stuff too.

Conclusion

Home makeovers don’t need to be expensive. There are so many ways you can enhance your living space, many of which don’t involve a lot of money. This doesn’t mean you can’t do a costly renovation if you have the budget, though. If you’re going that route makes sure you know what you want and plan ahead so you can save instead of unnecessarily splurging on stuff you don’t need.

Do you have home makeover tips you want to share? Sound off in the comments below.

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

Indoor vs Outdoor: The Differences of Water Fountains

There are many benefits of installing a water feature in your home. For one, it’s a gorgeous focal point and it will immediately boost the aesthetics of your property. A fountain also increases the value of your home, should you decide to put it up for sale in the future. Indoor fountains can help improve indoor air quality, while outdoor fountains can attract beautiful and helpful wildlife like birds and butterflies. Finally, the soothing sounds of flowing water coming from fountains can help relieve stress.

With all of these things in mind, the only question that remains is what kind of fountain you ought to install in your home. There are a lot of factors to consider, like the design and the placement (on the ground, flush against a corner, or wall-mounted, for example), but the main thing you have to decide on first is where you will put the fountain; is it going to be inside or outside your house?

Here are some of the differences between indoor and outdoor water fountains to help you decide which one is the best choice for you.

Size and Styles

Outdoor fountains are generally much bigger than indoor fountains — just imagine multilayered fountains made of concrete or stone, statues of angels or children holding jars of water, or those styles with huge ponds at the bottom that can house fish and aquatic plants. Indoor fountains, meanwhile, are usually smaller but have a wider range of designs: from a simple tabletop model that you can put in the bedroom to help you sleep to a tall waterfall fountain that you can use to liven up a corner in your living room.

This doesn’t mean, however, that indoor fountains don’t have bigger sizes. In fact, you can see some pretty impressive indoor installations like huge waterfalls that can occupy an entire wall. In the same manner, don’t be fooled that outdoor fountains are limited to those who have a big yard or garden. Bamboo fountains and tower-type models are great examples of outdoor pieces that don’t need too much space.

Maintenance Requirements

Outdoor fountains require more maintenance since they are exposed to sudden temperature changes and harsh weather conditions; various debris like leaves and twigs, and even bird excrement also accumulate in outdoor fountains. Algae is also a common problem for outdoor fountains, especially if they’re placed in an area that gets a lot of sunlight. The maintenance needs of an outdoor fountain also increase exponentially if you keep fish in the pond. This means that there will definitely be times when a professional crew will do a much better job of cleaning and maintaining your fountain.

Meanwhile, indoor fountains can be taken care of easily with DIY methods. Truth be told, as long as you regularly change the water and give it an occasional scrub and rinse, an indoor fountain hardly needs any maintenance. Just pay extra attention to the pump when you clean the fountain to make sure that it doesn’t have any defects, so the water can circulate properly.

Materials and Construction Style

Common materials used in both indoor and outdoor fountains include concrete, glass, natural stones like marble and granite, and steel and metal. Bamboo and driftwood are also ideal materials for both indoor and outdoor fountains; they are rather neutral in appearance and can, therefore, be matched with any kind of interior design but still sturdy enough to withstand outside elements.

Additionally, for indoor fountains, ceramic, resin, plastic, mirrors, and other delicate or lighter materials can be used. Indoor fountains can also incorporate small moving elements like water wheels and spinning glass balls to add to their visual appeal.

Final Considerations

One final thing you have to consider in choosing a fountain is its purpose. Say you went with an outdoor fountain — do you want it to be simply an ornament to provide visual interest and soothing sounds or do you want it to serve as a bird bath? If so, then you better pick a style that has a deep enough pool for birds to wade in. Determining the purpose of the fountain will help you narrow down the choices even more, resulting in a perfect match!

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

4 Chocolate-Based Goodies You’re Gonna Love During the Warm Months

Chocolate will always be in season, no matter how hot or cold the weather gets. Whether it comes in its traditional milk chocolate bar form, as a refreshing chocolate drink, as a sweet confection, or as something else entirely, there’s no doubt that chocolate will always be among the world’s most popular treats. Here are some chocolatey goodies that should help you beat the heat while satisfying your cocoa craving this summer.

Plant-based Chocolate Milk

When it comes to keeping cool while also getting your dose of creamy chocolate goodness, nothing can get the job done better and in a more delicious manner than a tall glass of ice-cold chocolate milk. No chewing involved; you just pour it out, drink it in, and enjoy!

Of course, there is a downside to this tasty treat, and that’s why full-cream chocolate milk isn’t exactly great for you, especially if you’re watching your weight and waistline. In this case, you should definitely swap your regular, full-fat chocolate milk for a healthier alternative such as Elmhurst’s peanut-based chocolate milk.

Because this particular type of chocolate milk is derived from peanut, it has absolutely no cholesterol and has a very low saturated fat count, in addition to not causing lactose intolerance. Elmhurst as a brand is also known for using no emulsifiers or added food gums to their product, so you can rest assured that you’re only getting what you pay for, with no artificial ingredients.

But does it taste just like regular dairy chocolate milk? It actually does, and it also packs the same amount of protein per glass, which makes it’s perfect as a post-workout drink or as a daily beverage that you can add to a healthy diet. So, if you’re on a chocolate kick this summer, do it the healthy but tasty way with chocolate peanut milk!

Low-Calorie or Homemade Chocolate Ice Cream

Another chocolate-based treat that’s perfect for summer is none other than chocolate ice cream. It’s much cooler than a chilled beverage and just as easy to enjoy; just scoop some into a glass or bowl, add some garnishing like some chopped peanuts or bananas for a deeper and more exciting flavour profile, and you’re all set! Just don’t overdo it, otherwise, you may not only pack on the pounds but also an ice cream headache as well! As an alternative to traditional, calorie-packed ice creams, consider low-calorie choices such as Breyers Delight Creamy Chocolate Ice Cream or Snow Monkey Cacao Superfood Ice Treat, which offers the added benefit of being dairy free.

If you’re a wizard in the kitchen, you can also make your very own ice cream, and a healthier version to boot! Simply swap the full-fat dairy milk you intend to use with a low-fat alternative, such as skimmed milk or nut-based milk. You can also control how much sugar is going into your ice cream, making it even less of a fattening treat to enjoy.

Chocolate Ice Pops

If you’re looking for an extra-cold treat that doesn’t take a lot of effort or work to prepare, then chocolate ice pops could be for you. Simply pour chocolate milk into an ice pop mould, stick it in the freezer to harden overnight, and enjoy it the day after. It’s a treat that kids of all ages—as well as adults —will love. Just remember to eat it quickly, otherwise, it’ll drip all over the floor and make a mess!

You can also spruce up this particular treat by making its fruity version instead. Blend fruits like strawberries or banana into a thick milky smoothie, but use chocolate milk as the base instead of regular milk. Pour this mixture into the ice pop mould to harden just like before, and enjoy!

Chocolate Cake

Having cake during the hottest time of the year may sound a bit counterintuitive – seeing as it’s usually not something you associate with cooling you down—but it works if you chill it first. You don’t even have to deal with the heat from the oven either since there are many non-bake recipes these days that simply require you to chill the entire mixture in your fridge before you can slice out a serving or two.

If you’re puzzled as to what kind of recipe to look for, look for the ones that involve a lot of heavy fudge—those not only taste the best when they’re fresh from the fridge, they’re also so rich that your cocoa craving will be sated after just a few small slices.

There you have it, four chocolate-based goodies to cool you down this summer. Whatever you decide to partake in, however, remember to always follow it up with loads of water, even when you’re outdoors. It’s easy to forget about adequate hydration, especially when you’re enjoying your chocolatey treat!

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In Editor's Picks 6 Mins Read

Busan, South Korea is Lonely Planet’s Best Place to Visit in Asia for 2018

Global travel authority Lonely Planet has today revealed its 2018 Best in Asia list – an agenda-setting collection of the continent’s 10 best destinations to visit in the year ahead.
For this third annual Best in Asia list, Lonely Planet’s in-house Asia experts have named “eclectic” and “vibrant” Busan, South Korea, as the number one destination; while the jewelled architecture and ancient cities of Uzbekistan are in second place; and in third comes Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, “a supercity that somehow keeps getting cooler”.“Asia is such a vast and diverse continent for anyone dreaming of an escape,” Lonely Planet’s Asia-Pacific Media Spokesperson Chris Zeiher says. “Our experts have combed through thousands of recommendations to pick the best destinations to visit over the next 12 months.”“From Nagasaki in Japan, to Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka,” Chris says, “this is a line-up to inspire a multitude of travellers – whether they’re based in Asia, or maybe they’ve already visited some of the region’s heavy-hitting destinations.”Lonely Planet’s Best in Asia 2018 is available online, with accompanying articles to each destination, at lonelyplanet.com/best-in-asia.

  1. Busan, South Korea

 

“A stunning confluence of scenery, culture and cuisine…Busan packs an eclectic offering of activities to suit all travellers: hike hills to Buddhist temples, settle into sizzling hot springs and feast on seafood…at the country’s largest fish market. Poised to steal the spotlight, Busan is East Asia’s Culture City for 2018 and will be at its most vibrant with…colourful events showcasing the country’s cultural heritage, from street art festivals to traditional dance shows.

2. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s historic treasures are now more accessible than ever
Uzbekistan’s historic treasures are now more accessible than ever © Andrii Lutsyk / Shutterstock

“Change is afoot in a country that has remained largely closed off to the wider world due to tight control following the end of the Soviet era. Uzbekistan has long held sway over travellers’ imaginations, with its dreamy mosaic-clad mosques and Silk Road lore…and in 2017 took huge strides in opening up to tourism, announcing visa-free and e-visa schemes, new air routes and extensions to its shiny high-speed rail line, making access to its arsenal of jewelled architecture and ancient cities easier than ever”.

3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

This slick supercity is in no danger of going out of style.
This slick supercity is in no danger of going out of style. ©Dung Pham/500px

“The southern supercity of Ho Chi Minh City somehow keeps getting cooler. Ageing apartment blocks are being colonised by vintage clothes stores and independent coffee shops, innovative breweries arefuelling one of the best craft beer scenes in Southeast Asia, and…eclectic venues are strengthening the local music scene. Add in long-standing attractions The War Remnants Museum and a pioneering street food scene…and this buzzing Asian megalopolis is in no danger of going out of style”.

4. Western Ghats, India

Rare flowers, steam trains and quirky hill stations are all on offer in the Western Ghats
Rare flowers, steam trains and quirky hill stations are all on offer in the Western Ghats. © Nate Hovee / Shutterstock

“The Western Ghats offer…an atmospheric mirror to Shimla and Darjeeling, with added jungle appeal… coffee, tea and spice plantations, charmingly dated colonial outposts, thundering waterfalls, and a steam-powered mountain railway. These rugged hills are Unesco listed as one of the top spots for biodiversity in the world, protecting the neelakurinji flower, which blooms only once every 12 years and will be painting the hills in purple livery from August to October 2018”.

5. Nagasaki, Japan

Nagasaki’s identity transcends one violent act
Nagasaki’s identity transcends one violent act. © SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

“For most, Nagasaki is synonymous with the tragic atomic bombing of August 1945…but remarkably, the city has converted the catastrophe into a call for peace, exemplified by the tranquil Nagasaki Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum. However, Nagasaki’s identity transcends one violent act…visit a new foreign-trade museum housed in Japan’s oldest church, or pass the verdant harbour towards the hiking routes that snake through the surrounding volcanic hills”.

6. Chiang Mai, Thailand

A new energy has enveloped ancient Chiang Mai, evident in its innovative culinary scene
A new energy has enveloped ancient Chiang Mai, evident in its innovative culinary scene. ©Kseniia Ivanova / EyeEm/Getty Images

“This former capital of the Lanna Kingdom feels plucked from the pages of history, where visitors browse stalls of antique jewellery…among archaic alleyways…yet despite this, a young, creative population has taken up residency in Chiang Mai bringing an exciting buzz…alongside majestic chedis (stupas) are cafés known for their latte art, mural-walled fusion cuisine restaurants and the newly-opened, award-winning MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum”.

7. Lumbini, Nepal

Change is apace in sleepy Lumbini
Change is apace in sleepy Lumbini. © AlexFox / Getty Images
“For decades, Lumbini was somewhere travellers flashed through en route from India to Nepal, unaware they had passed within yards of the birthplace of the historical Buddha. Today, Lumbini is on the ascendancy…a new international airport is under construction offering a safer route into Nepal, and ever-more aweing temples are springing up”. Despite these developments, “the town’s cardinal draw will remain its tranquillity”.

 

8. Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Arugam Bay boasts a laid-back vibe and surf breaks for all levels
Arugam Bay boasts a laid-back vibe and surf breaks for all levels. © Shanti Hesse / Shutterstock

“This surf town on Sri Lanka’s east coast…has managed to retain its cool as holidaymakers swarm the rest of the country’s ancient citadels and hiker-strewn hill stations. Barefooted boarders sprawl outside vegan cafes…but if the turquoise swells can’t tug you in, Arugam has grown its onland offering with…beachside bars and makeshift music festivals; plus a handy proximity to Kumana National Park, home to leopards, elephants and crocodiles.

9. Sìchuān Province, China

Sìchuān is a microcosm of China, with a selection of ancient and modern attractions
Sìchuān is a microcosm of China, with a selection of ancient and modern attractions. ©akedesign/Shutterstock

“Far-flung villages, towering skylines, giant pandas and fiery cuisine; Sìchuān Province is a microcosm of modern China…gain perspective surveying the Lè Shān Grand Buddha or climb Éméi Shān to absolve a lifetime’s sins…ride the first section of the Sìchuān-Tibet Railway to visit time-frozen Tibetan villages…or spot the mushrooming of luring brewpubs and boutique hotels in cosmopolitan Chéngdū.”

10. Komodo National Park, Indonesia

While glimpsing a dragon is a highlight, Komodo is home to a wealth of other wildlife attractions
While glimpsing a dragon is a highlight, Komodo is home to a wealth of other wildlife attractions. ©Anna Kucherova/Shutterstock

“New flight connections have made Komodo National Park more accessible than ever. Aside from laying eyes on the illustrious Komodo dragon, visitors to this cerulean-silhouetted archipelago can hike to hallowed viewpoints on Padar, sample laid-back beachside living on Kanawa and dive with a mind-boggling array of marine life in the reefs. A nature enthusiast’s nirvana”.

Visitors to lonelyplanet.com/best-in-asia also have the opportunity to enter a competition for a chance to win either a trip for two to Busan, South Korea, or a camera drone package from DJI. Terms and conditions apply.

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In Editor's Picks 3 Mins Read

Get High On Tea When You Say “Hi” to Hi-Tea

Bubble tea shops have come a long way and the first bubble tea that I tasted was the Jasmine Milk Tea with Pearls during my secondary school days. Although many bubble tea brands come and go over the last 26 years; tea is still very much appreciated and valued by consumers.

Image Credit: Hi Tea Singapore

Yes, fads will wane eventually but the very essence of tea being a prized commodity will not. As much as I am a coffee person, I am equally a fan of tea too and I find both to be simple pleasures of life that helps take my mind off the busy hustles of life.

Recently, I was introduced to Hi-Tea, a local homegrown tea artisan brand that aims to promote the Chinese tea drinking culture by integrating new tea brewing methods with quality and fresh ingredients to make interesting tea concoctions.

Image Credit: Hi Tea Singapore

With only two outlets (one at Far East Plaza and the other at Northpoint City) in Singapore; Hi-Tea made the headlines when they showcased what could possibly be the world’s first D24 Premium Durian Jasmine Green Tea.

Image Credit: Hi Tea Singapore

I know the idea and thought of consuming Durian Jasmine Green Tea can be quite mind-boggling or even quirky but even if you’re the smallest fan of durian, you will certainly enjoy this creamy beverage that stops short of being a durian smoothie. The strong Durian flavours give way into the delicate sweetness of the tea, which introduces itself in the back of the throat, giving an aromatic aftertaste.

Costing only $6.80, the Durian Jasmine Green Tea is the ultimate fix to your unfounded durian cravings.

Even if durian is not your cup of tea, you should check out Hi Tea’s range of other cold brew fruits tea; my favourite being the Mix Fruit King!

Image Credit: Hi Tea Singapore

While there aren’t any toppings such as pearls and jellies available, the fresh cut fruits are a delight to have and it brings one’s attention and focus to just simply enjoying the tea.

If you haven’t tried Hi Tea yet, make a trip down to Far East Plaza or Northpoint City today! I wish they have more outlets though; then I will have more reason to drink some tea every day.

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Pizza Hut Buffet 2018
In Editor's Picks 3 Mins Read

New Pizza Hut Pan Pizza Brings Back A Delicious Slice Of Simple In A Complicated World of Foodie Fads

It is pretty hard to define what a simple meal is nowadays; especially when food options can be overwhelming. Many diners also rather spend more time editing and taking photos of their meal than really enjoying the meal or spending some time with friends and families having great conversations over a meal.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/kzNsZHbeoQ5vVNuE6

Pizza Hut would like to bring back the simple joy of a piece of piping hot and tasty pizza in this intricate world, making it much easier for all to have a better pizza.

A “Slice of Simple” with the New and Improved Pan Pizza

Pizza Hut has launched launch their new improved Pan Pizza and it is a culmination of customer feedback; a survey gathering inputs from more than 100 participants and as well as intensive brainstorming within the restaurant team’s of what an ideal pizza meant.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ynJ69eKkUeRwUCG38

The product teams went through repeated product refinement and testing and finally served up the all-new Pan Pizza versions of familiar favourites (such as the Hawaiian, Super Supreme, Pepperoni and BBQ Chicken) with a crispier crust, improved signature sauce and topping close to the edge.

Unlimited Slices of Pan Pizza at Buffet Fiesta

For pizza fans who enjoy an extravagant indulgence and wants to try every flavour of the new Pan Pizza, Pizza Hut is serving 90-minute pizza buffets in selected outlets each week from 25 June to 26 August 2018:

  • 25 June to 8 July: Bedok Mall, Harbourfront Centre, Jurong Point, Lot One Shoppers’ Mall
  • 9 July to 22 July: Bukit Timah Plaza, Causeway Point, The Seletar Mall
  • 23 July to 5 August: Ang Mo Kio, Eastpoint Mall, NorthPoint City (North Wing), West Mall
  • 13 August to 26 August: Bukit Panjang Plaza, Plaza Singapura, Sun Plaza, West Gate

https://photos.app.goo.gl/hPaNe7TqeSWvYQp29

Prices are really pocket-friendly!

Adults can enjoy the buffet at $19.85 on weekdays and $22.20 on weekends, while children, age 5 to 12 years old, can enjoy the buffet at $12.80 on weekdays and $15.15 on weekends. Prices are inclusive of 10% service charge and prevailing GST.

Buffets are available in 2 sessions on weekdays (6:15 pm to 7:45 pm and 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm) and 3 sessions on weekends (4:30 pm to 6:00 pm, 6:15 pm to 7:45 pm, and 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm).

*For this limited time offer, you can make your reservations at http://pizzafestival.pizzahut.com.sg

About Pizza Hut Singapore

Started in 1981 with their first outlet at Jalan Jelita, Pizza Hut Singapore is now the largest pizza chain restaurant in Singapore with 60 outlets. They have an unmatched passion and celebration for their pizzas and they aim to deliver not just a wide array of pizzas, pastas and other quality foods that are always fresh, but also a casual atmosphere that is fun and friendly; all these without compromising what good restaurants have always stood- service and customer satisfaction.

Over the years, Pizza Hut’s service, menu offerings and ambience have evolved in keeping up with the times and trends. Since then, they have embraced the affordable casual dining concept where the emphasis is on creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for their customers. Pizza Hut is the favourite place to be at if you are looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply a relaxing time with friends and loved ones. They aim to make every dining experience a truly memorable one for their customers.

Globally, Pizza Hut spans more than 16,000 restaurants, 350,000 team members, in more than 100 countries.

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