Category

Travel

Category

Visiting Milwaukee for the first time? Or perhaps you have just moved here having purchased one of the Milwaukee houses for sale. Whatever the case may be, don’t miss out on these 10 things you really need to do in this midwestern city.

Tour the Craft Breweries

One of America’s brew capitals, Pabst has been here for years, but there have been many small craft breweries popping up too, with 32 opening between 2009 and the end of 2019 according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. A few of the local favorite brewery tours include Lakefront Brewery where you’ll get four samples and a pint glass, Sprecher Brewery which includes 10 samples paired with artisan cheeses, and Stock House Brewing  with tours that include a pint glass and a beer.

Explore the Milwaukee Public Museum

This museum features 17 permanent exhibits, with one of the most popular, “The Streets of Old Milwaukee”, which contains fully furnished models of shops and homes from the city in the late 19th century.

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s Art Museum is located inside a unique building that has the appearance of a bird, with the “wings” flapping when it opens. Inside you’ll find more than 20,000 works of art spanning from the 13th-century to the present day.

Explore Motorcycle History, Pop Culture and More at the Harley Davidson Museum

Even if you aren’t a motorcycle enthusiast, this Milwaukee institution is another must-visit. It covers the history of one of the most famous bikes, Harleys, which dates back to 1903 right here in Milwaukee. It also includes pop culture and films that have featured the brand, along with many antique models.

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Sample the Delicious Eats at the Milwaukee Public Market

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

You can sample all sorts of affordable gourmet foods at this public market just south of downtown. It offers a lively scene with a wide range of eats, and you can even take a cooking class here too. 

Enjoy Animal Encounters at the Milwaukee County Zoo

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s zoo is home to more than 2,100 mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish in specialised habitats that span 190 wooded acres. It also hosts wildlife shows and a variety of special events. Some of the highlights include the Humboldt penguin where you can enjoy underwater viewing of their 15,000 gallon tank and the Sterns Family Apes of Africa.

Take a Tour of the Jelly Belly Warehouse

If you like Jelly Bellys, you have to take a tour of the warehouse that is located a half-hour’s drive south of the city. You’ll tour via a free express train to learn more about them, and of course, you can enjoy samples and buy some to take home too.

Catch a Brewers’ Game

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Milwaukeeans love their baseball – if you’re visiting, catching a Brewers’ game is a great way to mingle with the locals while having a good time; and if you’ve just moved there, you’ll definitely want to find out what it’s all about.

Smell the Flowers at the Mitchell Park Conservatory

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Also known as The Domes, this conservatory in Mitchell Park includes three distinct areas, with the Tropical Dome housing various rainforest plants from five different continents, a waterfall and tropical birds; the Desert Dome with cacti, arid-land bulbs and shrubs; and the Floral Show Dome with changing seasonal displays.

Paddle Through Downtown Milwaukee

Image Credits: Visit Milwaukee

Get a different perspective of the city by kayaking along the Milwaukee River. You can bring your own, rent the gear, or join a tour. It’s a fun way to work off all that beer and cheese you’re bound to indulge in while you’re here. 

Got other things to recommend in Milwaukee? Share with us in the comments below!

Vast bluff-top vistas, snow trails cut through lush forests, and the ice-coated waters of Lake Tremblant lend loads of opportunities for fun when you plan a winter visit to Mont-Tremblant, Quebec.

The charming, whimsical village of Mont-Tremblant centres around the winter recreational hub of the Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort and the expansive wilderness of Mont-Tremblant National Park sprawls just an hour’s drive north of the city centre. 

Residents are fluent in French, and other European influences are evident in the city’s architecture, cuisines, and culture. Make room in the luggage for all of your cold-weather gear; a Mont-Tremblant winter vacation promises to be packed with chilly adventures.

Navigating the City

This snow-drenched destination is nestled in the Laurentian Mountains, just a 90-minute drive northwest of bustling Montreal. Arrive by air via the Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport and combine your visit with a tour of this world-class city. While you’re at it, find a luggage storage service in Montreal and only take what you need on your adventure into the mountains.

Or, make it a one-stop visit and fly into the Mont Tremblant International Airport, just a short drive north of all of the resort action. Shuttles offer easy transportation to nearby hotels, and rental cars are available, too.

There are other ways to access the attractions in Mont-Tremblant. Taxis run throughout the city, and large groups can book a luxury motorcoach. Take advantage of the Mont-Tremblant Public Transit buses to pop around the city with ease, or tighten up the snow boots and experience this small city on foot.

Where to Stay

The options for lodging in Mont-Tremblant are diverse. Chalets and mountain cabins offer tranquil and scenic escapes, while lakefront lodges and chain hotels offer convenient amenities and easy access to the ski resort. 

Land one of the short-term vacation rentals near Mont-Tremblant, and you can cosy up in a tiny house or sprawl out in a condo on the slopes. Wherever you choose to stay in Mont-Tremblant, you can expect mountain views, endless opportunities for outdoor fun, and relaxing resort vibes.

Winter Recreation

Mont-Tremblant is bursting with winter recreational opportunities. This place comes alive when the snow flies. Most winter fun kicks off in December, though some adventures can be enjoyed before the temperature drop.

Kick-off your winter trip in Mont-Tremblant with a journey down the resort’s snow-covered hills. Seasoned skiers should be able to hit the slopes as soon as the boots are locked, though first-time snow sliders might want to read up on some tips. Trails range from beginner-level to treacherous; maps and brochures can be downloaded or acquired at the resort.

Seek out some freestyle fun at one of the resort’s snowparks. Focus on flips and forms at the Progression Park, or start slow at the family-friendly Mitik Park, where new talent can hone some skills.

Alpine touring is another way to experience the region during winter. Equipment is available for rent, and passes are required to access the resort’s groomed trails. This hybrid of cross-country skiing and hiking will get the blood pumping while providing fantastic vantage points from the rugged terrain. Once you’ve wrapped the route, you’ll incorporate a little downhill skiing in the mix; with a speedy ride back down the mountain.

Venture beyond the ski hills for some more snow-themed explorations in Mont-Tremblant National Park. The Diable sector is where most winter activities can be enjoyed. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular pastimes here. As rental equipment is available, you don’t need to bring your own gear.

While visiting this Quebec national park, expect to see some wildlife. Though animal residents don’t frequently travel the forests in the frigid winter months, critters can still be spotted. Backcountry ski or hike along the snowy trails where moose and deer may cross your path. Eastern wolves are also known to roam these woods, too, though it’ll probably be harder to catch a glimpse of these elusive predators.

Wrangle up your own pack of canines when you go dog-sledding near Mont-Tremblant. Tours typically span an hour, with hot chocolate stops along the way. Some routes are kid-friendly, while others can get a little wild. Bundle up, meet the pups, and prepare for a one-of-a-kind winter adventure.

Want to lounge on ice for a while? Head out for some ice fishing on one of the nearby lakes. Book an ice-fishing tour, and guides will provide the gear and even drill the hole; all you’ll need to do is hunker down and wait for a bite.

Come In from the Cold

When the winter winds blow a little too much, and your muscles need a break, take cover in some of Mont-Tremblant’s best indoor attractions. Enjoy some live entertainment or test your luck at the Casino de Mont Tremblant, or spend a day perusing the shops along the walkable village streets. Stock up for sugar cravings at a sweet shop or snag some awesome European apparel at one of the high-end boutiques.

And then there’s the food. What better way to rejuvenate and relax than with some gourmet cuisine. Sample French-inspired fusions with a side of stunning mountain views, or settle into a spot at one of the village bars for some pub fare in a low-key atmosphere. Want crepes? You’re covered, and there are a few cafes, too.

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!

The Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean to the west of Morocco, is made up of 7 separate islands. This family-friendly holiday destination has always been a hit due to year-round sunshine, beautiful scenery and a wide range of things to do. Four of the islands being Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, are the most popular and they are visited by millions of tourists every single year.

Here are 3 things to do and see in the Canary Islands.

1. Mount Teide, Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the islands and the most popular with tourists and home to Mount Teide. Standing at 3,718 meters, Mount Teide is an active volcano located in Teide National Park and it creates an amazing backdrop to the already beautiful views. You can visit by car but some of the roads can be a bit windy and narrow; hence if you are feeling apprehensive about it, it’s not a good idea to drive there. Many travel companies organise day trips which some people find far easier than getting there on your own. The easiest way to get near the top is by cable car. Once there, you can take in the amazing views from Spain’s highest peak. If you want to hike to the summit, you will need a permit from the National Park office. Many companies do organise treks, but you will need to be fairly fit as the trek can take several hours, and in the blazing heat, it might not be as easy as you think.  

2. Charter a Yacht

If you are a keen sailor or just want to spend some time on the water, what better way to explore than with a Canary Islands yacht charter. Many people, particularly those travelling in larger groups or with friends, prefer to do this rather than staying on land. There are many different yachts to choose from, and they come with a range of on-board facilities such as refrigerators, hot water supply, and music players. Many additional services can also be purchased. Yachts can be chartered from several of the islands, but you must book in advance because they can get booked up very quickly. If you are not comfortable sailing yourself, you can hire a skipper to come on board with you, leaving you time to sit back, relax, and take in the wonderful Canary Island scenery.

3. Carnival Season, Lanzarote

Lanzarote is the third most populated and fourth-largest island in the Canaries. Each year, usually between February and March, each municipality hosts its own Carnival. The island transforms into a wonderful array of colour, music, and tradition; which is an amazing and very memorable experience. Each carnival has a different theme each year, usually voted for by the locals, and dates are agreed to ensure the carnivals don’t overlap. Whether it be a jungle or pirates’ theme or even a carnival with a hint of Bollywood, you are sure to have an amazing time and get a real sense of the local Lanzarote community spirit.

Got any other suggestions on what one can do and see at the Canary Islands? Share them with us below!

Are you travelling during the festive period? If you are, this article might come in handy if you ever find yourself stuck in a hit-and-run car accident.

When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it’s important to gather as much information as you can and talk to the police.

Texas drivers flee accident scenes for a number of reasons, such as:

When one of the drivers leaves the scene, it can complicate the insurance claims process.

Call 911

Your health is the most important thing. Call 911 if you were in the vehicle when it was hit, or if someone was injured in the accident.

Seek medical attention even if you have no apparent injuries. It’s not uncommon for car accidents to cause delayed injuries, where symptoms don’t present until days after the incident. If you wait too long to see a doctor, you hurt your chances of filing a personal injury claim.

Gather Information

While you’re waiting at the scene, gather and write down as much information as you can to report to the police, including:

  • The other driver’s license plate number
  • The make, model and colour of the vehicle
  • Approximate year of the car
  • Time and location of the accident
  • Direction the driver was heading
  • Contact information of witnesses

Jot down every detail – no matter how minor. This information may help the police locate the driver.

Make sure that you speak with any witnesses at the scene and gather their contact information. Your insurance company may want to speak to these witnesses to get an account of what happened.

Take Photos

If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene and your vehicle, especially if there is damage. Take some close-up photos of the damage to show the police and the insurance company. If any paint has transferred to your vehicle, take photos of that as well.

File a Police Report

Report the hit-and-run to the police within 24 hours of the incident. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime and should be reported to the police.

Make sure that you get the name, badge number, and phone number of the officer so that your insurance company can follow-up.

If you don’t report the hit-and-run, you may be considered “at fault” by your insurer and it could impact your premiums. Filing a report may also mean that the police locate the fleeing driver who will then be held accountable for their actions.

Call Your Insurance Company

After reporting the incident to the police, call your insurance company to inform them of the accident and discuss your options.

Depending on your coverage, your insurer may be able to help with towing and getting you a rental car if needed.

If you were able to identify the fleeing driver, you may be able to get his or her insurance information from your insurance company. With this information, you can file a claim with the other driver’s insurer.

If you have an uninsured motorist policy, this should cover the cost of injuries and damages caused by the accident.

Kauai is an island located in the central region of the Pacific Ocean. More specifically, it’s an island in the state of Hawaii and the fourth-largest member of that archipelago. Most of its surface is covered by tropical rainforest, giving it the nickname of ‘the Garden Isle’. Even if you don’t know it, you’ve likely seen the breathtaking pinnacles and cliffs of the Na Pali coast, since they’ve been a frequent setting for numerous television shows and blockbuster films. If you happen to visit there and you love hiking, you should check out the Waimea Canyon or the Nounou Trails that lead to the Sleeping Giant mountain ridge.

Even though Kauai offers lots of captivating sights on land, its real visual treasures are lurking under the waters off her shores. While scuba diving anywhere in the state of Hawaii is a great experience, it’s particularly special here in Kauai as it isn’t as touristy or crowded as others. In fact, less than 100,000 people call this island home.

In recent times, scuba diving has gotten popular due to its unique combination of unrivalled adventure, the opportunity to see the glories of nature with your own eyes, and a strong workout along the way.

As a form of recreational activity, scuba diving is truly exciting because you get the opportunity to get up close and personal with marine life; and in some locations, it’s even possible to visit coral reefs, caves, and underwater shipwrecks.

Although scuba diving is usually safe, it does entail some risks and if you’d like to join other scuba divers to scuba dive, find the best scuba diving instructor who will give you the best instruction so that you can learn to scuba dive safely. Look for instructors certified by professional bodies like The National Association of Underwater Instructors or The Professional Association of Diving Instructors. Both NAUI and PADI can also give you lots of information about scuba diving and as well as suggest good places to go scuba diving around Kauai.

Although a diving certification is usually required in most locations, you can learn to scuba dive while in Kauai. So, why not begin your diving journey where it’s beautiful and memorable?

Alternatively, you can take basic lessons at a scuba diving school from where you are based and then transfer your partial certification to Kauai for your open-water dive.

If you’re new to scuba diving and affordability is a concern, rent your scuba diving equipment instead of buying them. Some of the scuba diving gears and equipment that are available for rental include the snorkel, mask, fins, exposure suit, regulator, tanks, weights, and buoyancy compensators. Owning or buying all of these could wind up costing you more than a grand. If you’re just looking for a one-time or the occasional scuba diving experience, then renting certainly makes financial sense. It’s also a lot less to carry on the plane.

Anytime you visit Hawaii is bound to be a good one, but if you visit Kauai, be ready for the beauty and adventure that are waiting for you under those blue waves.

Hi there! How are you doing? Today, I thought about doing some throwback on my recent trip, but then I realised I’ve already done that. I wanted to do some review on some island in the Philippines, but then I was not in the zone yet to cover that story. So, while I was going through a mini writer’s block, I went online and saw some news on Jetstar.

Suddenly, it clicked!

I haven’t been doing airline reviews for quite a while, so, why not spice it up a bit right? So, come with me on this journey to discover the Jetstar flight experience up close and personal. Okay, maybe not too up close and personal because I can’t get you on the plane now. Just use your imagination for now!

Where Can I Find Jetstar Flight?

That’s a good question! Nowadays, you can easily find best Jetstar flights online because as technology advances and develops, so does the opportunity for businesses that are connected to an online system. There are two places you can get cheap flight booking online for Jetstar – the airline’s official website, OR the various online travel companies, which there are plenty to choose from.

What Does Jetstar Offer?

A LOT.

Okay, bear in mind that Jetstar is a low-cost budget carrier; hence, don’t expect to be served a bottle of fine champagne when you’re on board. Heck, I would be the first in line to go for that if it’s available.

My first Jetstar flight experience in 2006 (13 years ago)!

Comfort Packs

I don’t care if it’s a short-haul or a long haul flight because all I really want is to stay comfortable throughout the journey. So, Jetstar has this wonderful idea of assembling what they call “Comfort Packs” where inside, you will find all the necessary travel essentials that will keep you extremely comfortable throughout the flight. Now, these packs do vary between flights but you might more or less have the things listed below:

  • An inflatable neck support pillow
  • Lip balm and hand cream from Zenology cosmetics
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Earplugs
  • Socks
  • Eye mask (gift from heaven!)
  • Jetstar pen
  • Take-home blanket (another gift from heaven!)

Oh, the list is courtesy from Jetstar’s official website, so don’t call me out for plagiarising.

Entertainment

Apart from reading a book or heading to sleep, Jetstar has got a large collection of entertainment to keep you company.

The in-flight entertainment includes children shows (a big help for those travelling with children), games, music library, plus the latest movies from all over the world. So, you wanna know what’s currently in the movies department? Well, they have Aquaman, Captain Marvel, The Lego Movie 2, and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World – good fun for the kids!

Lounges

For passengers who are in Economy Starter Max or are members of the Qantas Club, travelling will always be comfortable for you even if your flight gets delayed for several hours. Why? Because you get to cosy up in the lounges, of course! But of course, if you have deadlines to meet and got delayed; yeah, I don’t think a first-class lounge will help cool down those frustrations.

Anyways, here in the lounge, you’ll be able to enjoy the unlimited food and drinks, the bar service, free Internet access and many more. If you are rolling with the Business Class, then, I bet you will get access to the highs and ups. Does anyone remember that fine champagne which I mentioned earlier? Maybe wishes can come true after all.

Frequent Flyer

I think this is not something that you will find surprising. If you are a frequent flyer, you will get the VIP treatment that you want. The good thing is, Jetstar’s loyalty programme allows you to benefit from travelling frequently. With Jetstar, you will find varieties of flyer partners like the Qantas Frequent Flyer, Emirates Skywards, JAL Mileage Bank and Lotusmiles.

With quite a big net to collect and spend your points whenever you need it, I must say that this is quite a good reason to take Jetstar.

Alrighty then, I think I am at my wits end with this one and I’m already tired haha but that doesn’t mean you won’t be hearing from me any time soon. I have plenty of other adventures coming in the future and I cannot wait to share my experience so that YOU could pack your stuff and go experience it for yourself.

Until next time, bye-bye!

There is no other summer like it. It’s not quite school holidays, it’s not quite whatever the next thing is going to be. You’re not really a kid but you’re not grown up either. That summer after the last year of school and before you go off to study brings a unique level of freedom as you have no ongoing work for school or university and there’s no career to be worried about yet. So, kick back and enjoy the ride because it won’t happen again.

Here are 5 things you can do during that one free summer:

Go Somewhere

Why not go somewhere? Travel is so much fun because you get to educate yourself and gain experiences that you wouldn’t have at home. Travelling is a classic thing to do and pretty much a cliché, but just because it’s been done before and so many times doesn’t mean it’s not worthwhile. You don’t even have to go on a long summer trip; even a blow-out holiday with your mates can be quite a liberating experience at this age.

Be A Kid – Maybe For The Last Time

I’m sure you don’t consider yourself a kid but while you still have that tentative link to childhood; make the most of being able to act like a child and do childish things one last time. If you are under 18, you may get junior or youth discounts in certain places.

Be Aware Of Results Day

While you’re having as much fun as you can possibly get, there is one serious day that you should have marked in the diary and that’s when the exam results are due. Be sure not to forget when it is A-Level results day because if you don’t get the results that you are looking for, you will have to get in touch with alternative options as soon as possible.

Get A Job

If you are going to have fun during the summer, it’s going to have to be paid for and you won’t be wanting to get into any sort of student debt before you’ve even matriculated for your first course. If you get a decent amount of work, you will be able to have a good time and also put a little aside for your first year of study. Getting a job over the summer can be fun and chances are, you’ll meet others of your own age there, thus making it a good social experience as well.

Make Memories

No matter what you do, be sure to make some fun memories; have new and exciting experiences and you’ll have a summer to remember. Try and take photos and videos to remember it by and with almost every phone having an onboard camera, this has never been easier. Just remember not to post anything that’s too embarrassing online because it will be there forever!

Non-Singaporeans relocating to this dynamic island state do so for all sorts of reasons: for temporary or permanent employment, for business or trading opportunities, for family reasons, or simply for a change of scenery.

Those relocating here for the first time inevitably endure some bumps along the way; no move is complete without drama but the acclimation process is far less difficult for those who’ve their common misconceptions cleared before their arrival. Immigrants to Singapore, for instance, are frequently surprised by:

1. The Reasonable Cost of Basic Necessities

Outsiders assume that everything is expensive in Singapore, but this isn’t the case. Street and public transport, in particular, are cheaper when compared to other major global cities.

2. The Sophistication of the Financial System

It’s difficult for locals to believe, but Singapore’s deserved reputation as a financial and business hub for the Asia-Pacific region hasn’t quite reached the four corners of the globe. North American immigrants, in particular, are frequently shocked to learn of Singapore’s global financial system. That’s down, in part, to the presence of regional financial firms such as trust and corporate services provider Asiaciti Trust, which serves clients throughout the Asia Pacific region.

3. The Not-So-Reasonable Cost of Certain Luxuries

Immigrants accustomed to paying “North American” or “European” prices for automobiles and housing may be in for a rude awakening in Singapore.

Autos, in particular, are far more expensive here than in many other parts of the world, since road space comes at a premium and there’s no native automotive industry to speak of. Housing is expensive, too, but that’s pretty common for a small but global city like Singapore.

4. The Fines for Bringing Durian on the MRT

Many locals aren’t even aware of this arcane restriction, although few well-mannered Singaporeans would think to bring the notoriously stinky fruit into a crowded train car in any case.

The durian-on-the-MRT prohibition is indicative of a basic truth about Singapore that’s likely to surprise immigrants from places like China, the United States, and continental Europe because Singapore is a very orderly place, and locals pride themselves for that. People are polite here and the culture has found a way for tradition and modernism to coexist quite comfortably.

5. The Near-Endless Cultural Diversity

Singapore is the archetypal melting pot: a place where diverse cultures and folkways mix to create something greater than the sum of their disparate parts.

Although the majority of its residents are ethnic Chinese, Singapore is also home to large communities of ethnic Malay, Indian, and European. Its religious groups include Taoism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism, among many others.

Simply put, Singapore is a place where you don’t have to look, eat, or pray a certain way to fit in. For immigrants concerned by the city-state’s supposed culture of conformity, this must be a relief to learn.

6. The Difficulty of Securing a Work Visa (To Start)

Recent immigrants to Singapore should assume that they won’t be able to work without first securing a job offer. In other words, don’t expect to arrive in Singapore first and figure out your employment situation later. Moreover, Singapore’s employment regime favours the highly skilled; so, plan ahead.

7. The Ease With Which One May Apply for and Earn Permanent Residency

On the other hand, applying for permanent residency in Singapore is not as difficult as in most other first-world countries. Notably, there’s no waiting period before you can apply; in theory, you can begin the process on your first full day in Singapore.

8. The Stunning Variety of Singapore’s Food Scene

The surprisingly reasonable cost of Singaporean street and shop food is worth reiterating here. So too is its stunning variety. This perhaps shouldn’t be surprising, given Singapore’s status as a cultural melting pot, but it’s nevertheless a strong selling point for immigrants not used to a wide array of cuisine choices.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Do you like what you’ve learnt about moving to Singapore? Making your move isn’t as difficult as you’d think — although you’ll want to begin your job search before planning too far ahead. When you’re ready, your soon-to-be-neighbours will be waiting with open arms.

Florida is known for its many fishing opportunities; whether both freshwater or saltwater, and deep sea saltwater fishing in Florida is simply awesome. Whether you are looking for that elusive yellowfin tuna, wanting to hook a monster grouper, or are seeking for a lot of good-sized eaters for the pan or grill; there are many options available, no matter what coastal area of Florida you may find yourself in.

A Wide Array of Options

Depending on where your location is, you must understand that the type of fish available will vary. The type of fish available to anglers on the Atlantic side of the state is going to be very different from anglers who are fishing on the Gulf side, especially in cities like Tampa and St. Petersburg. In addition to this (and as you would have expected), The Florida Keys also offers its own variety of options for adventuring anglers.

If you know what species of saltwater sports fish that you are fishing for, make sure the city you are travelling to has access to that type of fish.

Here’s a short and non-exhaustive list of the popular saltwater species that are available:

  • Amberjack
  • Bull Sharks
  • Grouper
  • King Mackerel
  • Mahi Mahi
  • Marlin
  • Spanish Mackerel
  • Sailfish
  • Snook
  • Yellowfin Tuna

Fishing on the Atlantic Side

There are multiple deep-sea charters found throughout the eastern part of the state (which is also referred to as the Atlantic side). Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, and of course Miami are all incredibly popular spots where thousands of saltwater charter captains are ready to guide paying anglers to the best saltwater fishing grounds the United States has to offer.

Wahoo and Mahi Mahi are common up and down the Atlantic coast and they are easy to find from any port on that side of the state. They are a hard-fighting saltwater fish that is delicious when cooked and they thrive on the Atlantic side. If you’re up north in Jacksonville or Daytona Beach, Sailfish is a great option because it offers itself as an enormous trophy and puts up an incredible fight. Jacksonville is particularly known for its king mackerel (and even some tuna) fishing. Going south to Daytona Beach opens up chances to go after the amberjack and triggerfish.

Cocoa Beach offers anglers plenty of opportunities to find quality-sized mackerel and the popular but rare marlin and tuna. Although West Palm Beach is a unique location that offers a little bit less than some of the other locations, it is the best spot to go to if you’re looking for a trophy-sized sailfish or that big-time bull shark.

Miami offers anglers some top-notch saltwater fishing because they have a little bit of everything; from amberjack to tuna to sailfish.

Fishing the Keys

While the Keys are more like each other than to any part of the rest of Florida, it is worth remembering that there can be major differences from one major Key to the other. Anglers willing to spend their money on a full day charter as opposed to a half day charter will have the time of their lives as they chase Goliath Grouper, Mackerel, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Snapper, and even Tuna.

In other words, there’s a shot at every type of big saltwater fish imaginable in the area.

Fishing on the Gulf Side

Fort Myers, Tampa/St. Petersburg, and Clearwater are all outstanding ports from which to sail out into the Gulf. Grouper fishing is much more common on this side, as is shark fishing and as well as many of the other popular species like Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, amberjack, and more. This gives plenty of options for anglers who want to chase some serious trophies.

In-Shore Saltwater Fishing

There are plenty popular saltwater fishes like the cobia, redfish, snooker, spotted trout, and many more that aren’t on this list (because they tend to be near the shore or in more shallow waters as opposed to out deep).

Even though this article is all about finding the right spot to enjoy some of the best deep saltwater fishing in the world; a day off by the shore at each of these areas can still offer plenty of opportunities for the determined angler.