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In Travel 4 Mins Read

5 Best Family Holiday Destinations Around The World

It’s December and that means its time for the holiday season!

While most people choose to set up their Christmas trees and call their family over for a gathering, there are also a lot of other people who choose to travel the world with their family.

In this post, we will be covering the best family-friendly locations from around the world.

Australia

Australia is one of the top family-friendly destinations on earth because of its sunny beaches, wildlife tours and so much more. Although many tourists may have the wrong impression that Australia is a small country, the matter of the fact is, Australia is huge! A road trip from Sydney to Brisbane will take you over 11 hours!

Australia is home to many indigenous animals such as the Kangaroo, Koala, Wombat and Dingo; and they are mostly unseen in other parts of the world.

Apart from wild animals and amazing natural landscapes, Australia also has one of the most iconic landmarks in the world- the Sydney Opera House. 

If you have never been to the land down under, you should definitely consider it for the perfect outback road trip.

Singapore

One of the most iconic countries in Asia, Singapore offers something for everyone. A melting pot of cultures, Singapore is home to people from all walks of life and what this essentially means is that Singapore has got varying degrees of cultures, languages and amazing cuisines.

If you want to experience the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of a multicultural country, Singapore is the perfect place!

For a complete list of places to visit in Singapore as a family visit the Joyscape site.

Japan

Also known as the land of the rising sun, Japan has been a top travel destination among travellers for many years now and has a good combination of new-age establishments and old-school charm.

You may not know this but Japan is very well-known for its cuisine and they have exclusive chocolates and confectionaries that cannot be found in other parts of the world.

Cities like Tokyo has a lot to offer in terms of museums, food, events, and other children-friendly attractions whereas Kyoto is known for its natural beauty and the life of the yesteryears that has been well-preserved. Children and adults who are into cartoons, manga and animes would definitely love to visit Japan.

Iceland

The Nordic island nation is known for its breathtaking beauty. Not only is Iceland a perfect location to enjoy nature’s finest creations such as volcanoes, hot springs, big range mountains and more; there are also ample opportunities for rafting, horseback riding and wildlife spotting!

One of Iceland’s most popular outdoor lagoons, known for its purified mineral water, is Blue Lagoon. Other popular Icelandic destinations include Pingvellir that is known for its natural beauty and historic shrine.

Iceland has plenty of mesmerising waterfalls that you can bring your children to visit and the popular ones include Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.

Ireland

Although Ireland is a relatively small country, there are many options that are available for holiday goers. With numerous old castles that will captivate you and your little one, Ireland is also known for its beautiful natural landscape and popular spots that include Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry.

If you are a nature lover, there are also national parks such as Killarney National Park and Connemara National Park that you can visit too.

So there you have it- the 5 best family holiday destinations.

Just so you know, all the countries that we have shared in this article have a high safety index. Some are known for their breathtaking natural beauty and some are known for their good mix of local culture and history.  We are pretty sure these holiday destinations would offer you and your children a great time together!

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In Editor's Picks 8 Mins Read

Our 2018-2019 Refreshed Travel Guide to Batam

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.

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

The Whiskey Library: A Storied Collection Of Rare and Unique Whiskies

A new chapter to a distinctive and unforgettable whiskey adventure story opens this month with the launch of The Whiskey Library. Ensconced within the ornate and luxurious interior of The Vagabond Club- Singapore’s preeminent luxury boutique hotel with 41 individualistic and elegantly appointed rooms and suites; the Whiskey Library offers over 1,000 bottles of thoughtfully curated rare and refined award-winning whiskies from around the world, and comes with a Membership Programme to beguile guests with a love of whiskey and give them access to the captivating vagabond experience.

Adventure awaits within the vintage art deco exterior of The Vagabond Club. Each room within the luxurious hotel is an oasis of comfort and calm bathed in natural light, bearing the touch of the genius French designer Jacques Garcia, executed in his renowned over-the-top, maximalist panache with Parisian-chic flair.

With the unique Membership Programme, guests who sign up will enjoy 10-room nights at The Vagabond Club (fully transferrable) as part of the S$3,000 annual membership fee.

Members will also have privileged access to 80 lockers, each with its own gilded and tasselled key, evocative of a bygone era of old world charm and hospitality, kept on-site in a specially designed wood-crafted armoire placed in a private space at The Vagabond Club’s salon.

Each locker will store up to 15 bottles of whiskey. Members can bring one of their own bottles for every two bottles purchased at The Whiskey Library. Members will also enjoy special bottle pricing, access to the Vagabond Club gym, and reserved seating at regular Whiskey Club events and experiences.

Each bottle at The Whiskey Library has been carefully collected from the finest distilleries from Scotland, Ireland, Japan, the US and other countries around the globe, with the collection comprising predominantly single cask and limited-edition bottles. Just as with a great literary work, each bottle is a unique work of art that stirs the imagination, beguiles the mind and excites the spirit.

The creator behind The Whiskey Library is luxury hotelier Satinder Garcha. Motivated by his love and passion for artistry, Garcha has spent two years bringing his dream to realisation.

“What started out as a vacation with friends travelling around Scotland and visiting distilleries soon turned into an eye-opening journey of discovery; a discovery of the depth of craftsmanship, the artistry, the culture and the incredible history behind whiskey making. These elements combined inspired me to bring these untold stories to Singapore where anyone and everyone can experience the profound pleasure of enjoying truly great whiskies,” says Garcha.

“No two bottles are the same. Each is unique, each has its own story, and many bottles will be unfamiliar even to the most experienced connoisseur. To me whiskey is art, and the craftsmanship behind our whiskies in The Whiskey Library is truly astonishing,” adds Garcha.

Designed for what Garcha calls “a club for vagabonds seeking a unique and hidden experience”, the warm and beautifully appointed Whiskey Library hosts up to 75 guests who, while relaxing and enjoying their whiskies, will be entertained with bespoke experiences such as specially curated sung and told Jazz stories, intimate theatre, book readings, artist evenings, musical showcases, and even independent film premieres. Guests will also be able to enjoy delightful small bites prepared by the Chef de cuisine at The Vagabond Club.

In keeping with the theme of artistry and luxury, the vitrines housing the whiskey collection and other crafted white spirits were designed and hand-crafted by local woodsman Mr Ng – one of the few remaining craftsmen in Singapore who continues to create unique furniture pieces. Designed to enhance the decadent elements of the hotel surrounds, the armoires feature brass claw feet to complement the similarly brass Allahbuksh-designed Rhino reception desk.

Akin to the Allahbuksh family from Rajasthan who crafted the enchanting Banyan Trees at The Vagabond Club, Mr Ng has contributed much to the artistry ambience in Garcha’s hotel portfolio.

Bespoke elements such as artisanal ice and an international selection of the finest of cigars, together with the extensive collection of whiskeys, bourbons, and other crafted spirits bring a truly complete and unique experience to guests of The Whiskey Library.

The Whiskey LIbrary is perhaps one of the world’s great whiskey bars! Check them out today!

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

Sucimurni Retreat Women’s Edition Launches at Tanjong Jara Resort

Following the successful return of the Sucimurni Retreat, the award-winning luxury destination, Tanjong Jara Resort, will launch a special edition entirely dedicated to women. Taking place from 17th to 19th November; the Sucimurni Retreat, Women’s Edition, will be a unique getaway for mothers, daughters and girlfriends to rest, recharge and discover Sucimurni, the Malay concept that emphasizes purity of spirit, health and well-being.

This exclusive retreat will allow guests to learn a new concept of relaxation through a weekend of female-focused classes and workshops led by renowned wellness professionals. The retreat will include, but not limited to signature WeBarre classes, Yin yoga and sound & breath meditation session by Align Origins, wellbeing and batik workshops led by The Busy Woman Project and The Batik Boutique respectively, and a cooking class to learn the secrets of Malay kitchen from the resort’s resident Chef.

Day One

Amy Blair from The Batik Boutique will kick-off the retreat with a Batik Workshop where guests will explore the Batik process and unleash their creativity to take home their own personalized Batik Boutique product. Following the batik workshop, Linda Tang, co-founder of WeBarre Singapore, will lead a WeBarre Stretch & Technique session, guiding attendees to stretch out and lengthen all muscles to increase flexibility, improve mobility and reduce the risk of injuries.

Day Two

On the second day, Linda Tang, will start the day with an energising Sunrise WeBarre Signature Multi-Level class, an exhilarating workout inspired by ballet, yoga, pilates and strength training which aims to transform the entire body.

For lunch, Tanjong Jara Resort’s resident Chef Ann will teach attendees her best-kept secrets at the ‘Secrets of Malay Kitchen’ cooking class. Guests will be able to savour their scrumptious creations just before the next session with Jaslyn Koh, founder of The Busy Woman Project, an online platform focusing on mental, physical & emotional health for busy women living in Asia. In WE, Introspective Conversations, the ladies leading the classes and workshops during this weekend, will share their insights and connect with like-minded women on topics such as self-acceptance and self-worth.

To wrap-up the second day with a deep sense of balance and relaxation, Amanda Ling, founder of Align Origins –musician, yoga teacher and sound healing practitioner–, will share with guests the healing wonders of Yin yoga. In this slower-paced practice based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Taoist Yin Yang philosophy, postures allow a sense of release within the deeper connective tissues, fascia and joints in the body. A unique Sound and Breath Meditation session will follow. Focusing on the aspects of Nada (Sound) Yoga, Amanda will teach attendees various breath techniques to induce calmness and inner peace through breathing. Using Tibetan Tingsha bells and Singing Bowls to integrate sound vibrations into each breath, guests will learn how to build awareness to manage stress effectively.

Day Three

Before the retreat comes to an end, guests will partake in the resort’s signature Sucimurni Exercise led by the resort’s very own Resident Naturalist, Captain Mokh. The Sucimurni Exercise held by the beach at sunrise will see guests going through a series of stretches inspired by the main animal chakras, giving them a chance to explore their main energy centres and find inner peace.

The Sucimurni Retreat, Women’s Edition is priced at SGD333++ per room per night, with a maximum occupancy of two adults and one child and is inclusive of:
·       Accommodation

·       Return airport transfers from Kuantan airport

·       Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner

·       One 50-minute massage for two per stay

·       Two barre classes

 

 ·       One Yin Yoga session

·       One sound and breath meditation session

·       One wellbeing workshop

·       One batik workshop

·       Sucimurni exercise

·       One Secrets of Malay Kitchen cooking class
Babysitting services are available at the resort for an additional fee.

For bookings and enquiries, kindly visit http://singapore.ytlhotels.com/

 

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

Wildlife Tours Australia: Why It’s Worth Including in Your Bucket List

Sure thing, Africa will be the first place you’ll imagine if someone suddenly proposes this travel idea, “Hey, why don’t we go on a safari adventure?” And quickly, you drop your bag, sit on your desk and look up pieces of information about travel to Africa. But, is Africa the only continent where you can go on a safari adventure? What if you discover there’s something equally exciting and fantastic somewhere else?

Apparently, it’s easier to decide where to go when you know that Africa is the only place to explore if you’re wishing for some safari adventures. It turns out though that Australia can be a close rival. Wait, what? You read that right. Let’s take a look at what Australia has to offer.

Australia: Where All Sorts of Diversity is Found

If you say the word ‘diversity’, perhaps, Australia is on the top rank among the most diverse countries in the world. In fact, Australia is very diverse in almost all aspects—the people and their backgrounds, the landscapes and terrains, the mix of city and countryside vibe, and a great number of diverse, unique species of flora and fauna. Check out valuable pieces of information on that subject here.

And what do all of these things mean? Yup, you’re right indeed. A tour of just a few days in Australia won’t be enough to explore everything wonderful. In fact, it would be the most awesome option if there’s a way you can do a long-term backpacking journey around entire Australia as you dream of how unique your everyday experiences would be. You’ll never run out of new things to try and see!

Hike up the mountains or sail to the islands, one after another. You’ll find that there is no shortage of wildlife creatures in Australia—they’re even abundant. You can swim with the whales, meet and greet the cutie kangaroos and koalas, get awed by the different, lovely birds on a birdwatching adventure, and discover various species of reptiles. And there’s a whole lot more! The scenic views are even enough to make your heart skip a beat! Learn more about that by visiting Aus wildlife tours.

A Learning Experience in a Classroom the Size of a Country

There is no doubt that travelling makes us smarter. We get to learn a new culture and new words from another language, we are able to taste new cuisines, uncover history, and discover art; and when we derive such new learnings, we also develop our creativity which helps us become more productive at work or at school.

Thus, we can compare wildlife tours in Australia to a wonderful learning experience in a classroom that’s the size of a country. It would be a unique experience for the whole family, especially if you have young children. It will help them fully immerse themselves in an interactive learning experience when they get to learn about wildlife creatures not just in pictures, books, and videos, but in their natural habitat as well.

Grow Your Love for Nature

When we go on wildlife adventures, we allow ourselves to have a close encounter with nature. This interaction helps us to grow our appreciation of our planet’s beauty and as well as its rich diversity. Seeing the beauty of diverse creatures and observing their life in their natural habitat compels us to grow our love for nature and to take care of our environment.  https://biofriendlyplanet.com/nature/environment/50-ways-to-make-your-life-more-environmentally-friendly/

It also motivates us to start making sustainable and eco-friendly choices in our daily lives; as we know that a single piece of trash we throw or a single foolish thing we do against the environment, could impact the lives of other creatures, especially those nearing extinction. In addition, growing our appreciation for nature moves us to teach our kids to be gentle with animals, take care of them, plant trees, and take every effort to care for the environment.

There are so many things to learn and discover while you’re on a wildlife tour. You can even choose one based on your interests. Love the ocean? Go whale-watching, diving, or snorkelling. Want to meet marsupials? Say “Hi” to kangaroos and koalas. Want something even wilder? Meet and greet reptile species! There’s no doubt that including off-the-beaten-track experiences in your travel bucket list is a must when you visit the land down under!

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In Travel 4 Mins Read

Top 5 Things to see and Do While You’re In Singapore!

Are you planning on a trip to Singapore? Or are you a local who has yet to explore every nook and cranny that your friends have been raving about? Whatever the situation may be, this guide might just be the help you need to plan out your trip to Singapore. We have rounded up the top 5 must-see things to do and hopefully, anyone who has never been to this city-state will have a great experience when exploring these places.

Psst… you can book all these activities from Klook where it’s convenient and wallet-friendly too.

1. Take a Walk on the Wild Side

If you have never been to a tropical Zoo; then Singapore Zoo, River Safari, Night Safari, and Jurong Bird Park are all excellent attractions in their own right and they tend to be on the itinerary of most first-time visitors to Singapore. A stroll through the river-themed River Safari will bring you through the greatest rivers in the world and let you experience the wildlife of the Amazon and the Nile. Here’s where you can also find the loveable giant pandas, Jia Jia and Kai Kai.

2. Explore the Iconic Gardens

There is no doubt that Gardens by the Bay is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Singapore. Your trip to Singapore is incomplete if you don’t visit this amazing place. Enclosed in two massive greenhouses are some unimaginable and unusual exotic plants and greenery that you don’t often get to see.

The garden also features statuettes cuddled up between the trees and mesmerising waterfalls.  At night, the garden comes magically alive with the beautiful lights that light up the giant Supertree Grove. Even people who may not find flora and fauna exciting might just find a new sense of connection and closeness to nature.

3. Stuff your Tummy with the Best Tasting Local Delights

If you don’t have the time to visit the most famous food market in Singapore, Lau Pa Sat, fret not because they are still open after 7 pm and there are also many other hawker centres that are located at the heartlands where you can plan a nice time out with your family members and friends.

You’ll get spoilt for choices as there are so many food options that are available. Whether it’s the tantalising chicken satay or the stuffed Murtabak, be sure to try as many local delights as you can as they are rather affordable. Just dress comfortably though; as it can get quite hot and stuffy in Singapore’s rather humid weather.

4. Scream Your Heart out At Universal Studios Singapore

There’s much to see and do at Sentosa and one of the highlights of visiting Sentosa is to check out the exhilarating rides at Universal Studios Singapore. You can plan out a full-day trip here as you probably would want to conquer all the rides that are available at Universal Studios Singapore.

As you swing off the world’s tallest duelling roller coasters and get drenched on a whitewater rafting experience; don’t forget to get some souvenirs from the souvenir shops at the various themed zones. You can pre-book your Universal Studios Singapore entry ticket from Klook.

5. Experience the Mythological Ten Courts of Hell

Have you ever been to a place where everything seems to be strange and wonderful at the same time? If not, then you must visit Haw Par Villa; it is a park that’s filled with many statues that depicts the scenes from Chinese mythology and legends.

The best highlight of the park is the Ten Courts of Hell. Here, you will see a small-scale tableaux showing the human sinners being punished in a range of dreadful and ferocious ways – in graphic details.

Hopefully, the above must-see and things to do in Singapore will let you have a great time. Plan out a perfect outing in Singapore with Klook and create many beautiful memories today!

Ps. If you are looking for the best bars in Singapore to soak in the view while sipping a drink, you definitely got to check out 9 Best Bars to See the Singapore Skyline!

Author Bio
This blog post is written by – CollectOffers Singapore

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In Travel 3 Mins Read

Make Moving Abroad Work For You

It does not matter whether you are planning to move to France, Mexico, Australia, or any other corner of the world; there are just so many things that need to be considered. More and more people are moving overseas today but you need to plan and prepare effectively to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. With that in mind, read on to discover some tips on making moving abroad work for you.

Plan, plan, and plan some more – It is never too early to start planning your move overseas. This is especially the case if you need to sort a visa or you need car transport companies. The sooner you get started, the better. It will make your move a lot easier.

Download free messaging and video calling apps – Luckily, you are not going to need to spend a fortune on calling home, as the likes of Skype, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger have made this possible for free with a good Internet connection.

Learn the language – You don’t need to master the language, but it is a good idea to learn the basics at least. This will help you to get by with greater ease. This will also earn you some respect from the locals because they will appreciate that you have put in an effort to learn their language to communicate with them.

Rent first – In most cases, it is better to rent before you buy so you can get a good understanding regarding the best location and property type for you.

Save up more money than required – No matter how good your budget is, it is likely that you will end up needing more money than expected. Don’t leave yourself short.

Don’t go back to your home country in the first year – Of course, it can be tempting to return to your home country, but you should avoid doing this in the first year. If you do this, you can end up feeling unsettled.

Sort out health insurance before you move – One of the worst things you can do is leave health insurance until you arrive. What happens if you were to fall ill or suffer an injury in your first few days? You could end up blowing your entire budget on a medical bill. Make sure you research thoroughly before you move abroad. Every country has their own health system.

Don’t take clutter with you – Last but not least, you need to sort out your clutter before you move. The last thing you want to do is fill your new home with things you do not really need. Not only will this make your new home cluttered but it will cost you much more money than needed in terms of moving fees and shipping costs.

Hopefully, you now feel more prepared for your big move overseas. Good luck!

 

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

3 Things to Know Before You Travel

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!

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In Editor's Picks 4 Mins Read

The Top 5 Holiday Destinations in Southeast Asia

One of the many great things about Singapore is its strategic location. As a central hub in southeast Asia, it’s incredibly convenient and easy to go to many of the beautiful places around the area. Whether you intend on taking the family along, just your partner or you just want to fly solo, you can be sure that you’ll find the right place for you. There are tons of picturesque places nestled in nature, so make room in your memory (phone, camera or otherwise!) and click away so you can do postcard printing in Singapore when you get back to get the most precious keepsakes of your journey!

Now, beauty lies in the eye of the beholder and all that – but it has a little something for everyone. With that spirit in mind, we’ve shortlisted a few places that stand out as travel destinations for those looking for solitude, romance or a bit of adventure!

1. Cambodia

Image Credits to Never Ending Voyage

Those looking to escape the city bustle can find comfort in Kampot – where travellers can experience the riverside charm by renting boats, canoes or simply plunging in for a swim! For those who like some good old countryside adventure, you can also wander through their pepper farms. Another option in this country is Mondulkiri – where adventurers can hike or trek to waterfalls and climb beautiful hills!

2. Thailand

Image Credits to Trip Canvas

While the more commercial parts of Thailand like Bangkok may be better known for its bustle and architecture, Kanchanaburi is recognized for its national parks, waterfalls and intriguing caves. Of course, Thailand also hosts an array of beautiful beaches in places like Phuket and Krabi that are perfect for those who enjoy white sand beaches, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

3. Indonesia

Image Credits to Never Ending Voyage

Another country that’s known for its beautiful beaches and a popular honeymoon destination for young couples! Places like Bali are dotted with white sandy beaches. If the idea of cycling around the countryside and exploring quiet coves and secluded beaches appeal to you, this is the place for you! Ubud, known for its rice terraces and its romantic allure, is also a popular choice among travellers.

4. Vietnam

Image Credits to ©Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

Halong Bay in Vietnam is an excellent place to be for cave explorers and seafood enthusiasts (whether you like to look at them or eat them!). But for those of you looking to get a taste of rural life in Vietnam, head to Sapa – a quiet, pretty place with green hills celebrated for being an area run by women alone! A great place for solo female travellers to enjoy some quiet time.

5. Laos

Image Credits to © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet

Si Phan Don in Laos is the place where you go to enjoy bike rides, tranquillity, and peace. The country itself is scattered with beautiful places all over and offers a quieter environment than its neighbouring alternatives. If you’re someone who wants a taste of architecture, mountains, peace, and adventure – Laos has it all. Vang Vieng is just rivers of peace and calm, and it offers a number of adventurous activities like zip-lining and hot air ballooning.

These 5 places are our top picks, but let’s not forget that there’s a vast array of other options too! Philippines and Malaysia, as well as the lesser known countries like Brunei, Timor-Leste, and Myanmar, are all swamped with gorgeous places too. The fact is, every one of the countries that make up Southeast Asia has something different to offer. So, don’t stress it too much, have a happy holiday and take a lot of pictures!

You can have a gander at photojaanic.sg to find fun ideas and advice on travel photography and how to bring your holiday memories into life!

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In Travel 2 Mins Read

Walking Through Gardens By The Bay With The Locomole App

Man-made objects can never compete with the creations of nature. Nature is majestic, beautiful and raw. If there’s any man-made object that comes close to competing with nature, it’s Gardens By the Bay.  An amalgamation of mankind’s capabilities and nature’s beauty, Gardens By the Bay stretches across 250 acres and has more than 1 million plants.

Who would have thought that there are 1 million plant species in this world?

It’s safe to say that Gardens by the Bay is a marvel. It has attracted over 40 million visitors since its inception and has managed to capture the imagination of all.

Popular Things to do at Gardens by the Bay

There’s plenty to do at Gardens by the Bay and because it’s a massive area, it’s easy to get lost and miss out on certain attractions and landmarks. Apart from fascinating sights like the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest that can catch your fancy; there’s a lot more that Gardens by the Bay offer which can get quite daunting.

Supertree Grove

The Supertree Grove is one of the highlights of Gardens by the Bay. It’s a beautiful piece of architecture with stunning lights in the night. The music light show is gorgeous, breathtaking and absolutely worth its time.

Cloud Forest

The Cloud forest is nature at its finest. The lush green interspersed with bits of color will rejuvenate you immediately. The falling water will take you places and give you the feeling that you’re one with nature.

Using Locomole

The best way to make most of your ticket and the day is to take a guided tour with the help of an app! How does an app help you might ask.

Well, Locomole is a hiking trail app that gives you self-guided tours of popular tourist spots. They focus on finding the hidden gems in every tour; so hidden, even the local won’t be aware of its existence. If you are an avid hiker, you should check out this app which is developed by a Singapore-based company.

Using the QR Code

To make the best of your trip to Gardens by the Bay, head on a Locomole tour using the QR code below.

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