Resort World Sentosa ESPA Tropical Relaxation Deal

ESPA Tropical Relaxation for Two
How about getting away from Singapore by staying "in" Singapore? Being 10 minutes away from the business, entertainment and shopping centers of one of the most crowded cities in the world? Then you should consider a staycation on Sentosa Island. There are several hotels for your choice but the best is to be alert about a deal and then grap it.

Resort World Sentosa has 5-Star hotels to offer: Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Hotel Michael and Equarius Hotel. And now there is a deal running for these hotels: ESPA Tropical Relaxation for Two. This Resort World Sentosa deal is a package which includes, One-night stay at a choice of Hard Rock Hotel Singapore Deluxe Room or Hotel Michael Deluxe Room, Festive Hotel Deluxe Family Room or Equarius Hotel Deluxe Room; daily breakfast for two; 1-hour ESPA Fitness Class for Two; 60-Minute ESPA Personalized Massage for Two and 2-Course Lunch at Tangerine for Two.

See details here.

AirAsia introduces Sky Shuttle between Singapore and Senai Airport

AirAsia and Causeway Link has introducing the Sky Shuttle, a joint effort to transport AirAsia guests from Singapore to Senai Airport in Johor Malaysia. Customers will be able to book Causeway Link e-ticket after confirming their AirAsia flights.

With Causeway Link e-tickets, you can board a cross border bus of Causeway Link at either Newton MRT (CW5), Queens Street Bus Terminal (CW2) or Kranji MRT (CW1) to CIQ Malaysia (1st Link).

Located strategically in the Iskandar Malaysia, Senai International Airport is primarily a domestic airport. AirAsia flies from Senai Airport to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur, Miri, Penang and Sibu in Malaysia and Surabaya in Indonesia. Also Firefly flies from here to Kota Bharu, Kuala Lumpur-Subang and operates charters to Langkawi and Malaysia Airlines flies to KL. So, the airport serves as a cheaper alternative to Changi Airport for these destinations.

If you are not a AirAsia customer, you still have several alternatives to travel between Singapore and Senai Airport. The City Lounge provides bus services to the airport, city centre and Kranji MRT Station in Singapore, thus increasing the accessibility of the airport. From Singapore, you can take a public bus service or 'restricted' taxi to Kotaraya Bus Terminal. From the bus terminal, you can change to an express bus service provided by the airport to get to Senai airport. However, if you take a public bus over the Causeway, it is extremely inconvenient for you with luggage since there is a need to disembark and re-board the bus on both the Singapore and Malaysian sides of the border to pass immigration and customs which is one level up from street level.

Below is the Cross-Border Bus Schedule from Singapore to Senai International Airport.

Public Service Bus Number	CW1	CW2	CW5
Bus Route	Kranji MRT Station -CIQ	Queen Street - CIQ	Newton Circus - CIQ
Timing for First Bus	0440	0600	0600
Timing for Last Bus	2300	2345	2330
Frequency	Peak: Every 5-10mins	Peak: Every 5-10mins	Peak: Every 15mins
	Non-Peak: Every 10mins	Non-Peak: Every 15-20mins	Non-Peak: Every 20-25 mins

Here is the Sky Shuttle Bus schedule from Senai International Airport to Singapore.

CIQ (JHB) to Senai International Airport	Senai International Airport to CIQ(JHB)
0600	0700
0800	0900
1000	1100
1200	1300
1400	1500
1600	1700
1800	1900
2000	2100
2330	0030*

Luxury car rent in Singapore

Be it for a night out of a lifetime, a dream wedding carriage or for a grand entrance to turn heads. Or just to have the feeling a piece of being rich and at full control in a luxurious beast. You can rent a luxurious car for a day or more.

Motorway Group, a leading conglomerate of the automobile lifestyle in Singapore, offers a wide range of cars from SsangYongs to Lamborghinis and from exotic cars to sports beasts. The car choices available for rent are Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, Ferrari F430 Spider,  Porsche 911 Carrera S PDK, Porsche 911 Carrera S Aerokit, Mercedes Benz SL500 V8, Porsche Boxster S, BMW 320i Convertible and Saab 93 Linear 2.0T Convertible.

These are not ordinary cars so the rental prices are not ordinary. The price of renting a luxurious car depends on the model: a Saab 93 Linear 2.0T Convertible rental price is 500 Singapore Dollars per month while renting a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder will cost 3,888 Singapore Dollars per day. But anyway, most people rent these cars once in a lifetime for a special occasion like marriage so the prices in that sense may be suitable for some.

Motorway also offers annual membership to drive luxurious cars: $2000 per year Silver Membership provides you $2,000 in rental credit, priority booking, privilege weekend package and a minimum of 20% off all rental rates. Second plan, $5,000 gold membership a year provides $5,000 in rental credit, priority booking, privilege weekend package, one complimentary additional nominated driver and a minimum of 30% off all rental rates. The company also has some promotions.

A Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder will cost you 3,888 Singapore Dollars per day
to rent from Motorway Luxe Rentals.

See also :

Prestige Car Rental Bangkok

See the details at Motorways Luxe Rental.

Capella Singapore Hotel on Sentosa Island

When you are staying in Capella Singapore, located on Singapore’s premier resort destination, Sentosa Island, you can easily forget that you are just 10 minutes away from the business, shopping and entertaintment districts of Singapore, one of world's most densly populated cities. The luxurious resort sits peacfully on a knoll residing on 30 acres of lush tropical forest and offers an inspiring natural setting. The hotel has 112 rooms, suites, villas and manors, the guests of this luxurious resort are assured a personalised experience amidst beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Capella Singapore offers the most spacious accommodation in Singapore: premium rooms to suites; villas to colonial manors. The property and staying is a gorgeous experience. In fact, Capella Singapore is officially one of the best Singapore hotels. The hotel was ranked among some of the best hotels in the world in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2012 and is the only hotel in Singapore to be named among the top 50 in the world and also the only Singapore hotel in the Top Resorts in Asia in the recent Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2012. It is officially rated 37 out of 50 Top Hotels Overall and also Top 5 out of 15 Top Resorts in Asia. This is also not the only award received by the luxury resort this year. Back in April 2012, the hotel became the only hotel in Singapore to be named among the top 100 hotels in the world by global luxury resource, The Robb Report.

Some of the other well-known properties that Capella Singapore has been listed alongside include Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, India; The Peninsula, Bangkok; Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, Istanbul, Turkey, to name a few. Capella Singapore’s sister property, Capella Pedregal, Los Cabos ranked 57 out of the Top 100 Hotels Overall.

In addition to hotel accomodation, Capella Singapore offers the opportunity for extended stays with full access to the hotel’s facilities via The Club at Capella Singapore.  These long stay offerings include 72 sea-facing suites and duplexes and 9 manors with private pools.  For more information or to plan an event at Capella Singapore.

Capella Singapore Hotel on Sentosa Island

The hotel belongs to Capella Hotels and Resorts which serves top-tier travelers and residential property owners. The group has opened world-class properties in gateway cities and high-profile resort destinations around the world, including: Breidenbacher Hof, a Capella Hotel (Düsseldorf, Germany); Capella Ixtapa (Ixtapa, Mexico); Capella Pedregal (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico); Capella Singapore (Sentosa Island, Singapore) and The Setai Fifth Avenue.  Capella has also announced plans for: Capella Bahia Maroma (Riviera Maya, Mexico); Capella Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand); Capella Georgetown (Washington, D.C.); Capella Nahui (Riviera Nayarit, Mexico); and Capella Niseko (Niseko, Japan). 

Hotels in Thailand winning 2012 Agoda.com Gold Circle Awards

Agoda.com is (or should be) the first online booking site to come to mind  when you are looking for an Asian hotel online. Since 2009 Agoda.com gived its hotel partners (hotels listed in Agoda) Gold Circle Awards based on several criteria such as number of positive customer reviews, their utilization of Agoda.com’s custom-built Yield Control System (YCS), aggregate scores for customer reviews, top-performing properties, competitive pricing, and for showing an understanding of the complex business dynamics that define the industry.

Commenting on this year’s awards, Mr. Errol Cooke, Director of Hotels – Global at Agoda.com said, “We are delighted to recognize our hotel partners for the 2012 Agoda.com Gold Circle Awards. Now in their fifth year, the awards are recognized as a mark of excellence in online distribution. This year, we have awarded hotels across the globe for their commitment to online revenue management and consistently offering great value at a fair price to Agoda.com customers.”

This year in 2012, 494 hotels have won the prestigious award. So if you choose one of these hotels for your stay, they can almost be assured that your stay will be relaxing, comfortable, and up to the standards that Agoda.com customers have come to expect.

Thailand, the tourism hub of the South East Asia, had 56 winners, almost 12% of all the winners around the world!

Here are some of the best hotels to stay in Thailand. 

Thailand

Hua Hin/Cha-am 

Cher Resort
Anantara Hua Hin Resort & Spa 

Hin Num Sai Suay Hua Hin 

Dusit Thani Hua Hin

Tanawit Hotel & Spa

Koh Chang (Trad) 

KC Grande Resort & Spa

Kacha Resort & Spa, Koh Chang

The Dewa Koh Chang

Koh Samet 

Vongdeuan Resort

Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa

Kanchanaburi

Sabai @ Kan Resort

Khao Lak 

Khaolak Laguna Resort

Ramada Resort Khaolak

La Flora Resort & Spa Khao Lak

Phuket 

The Kee Resort & Spa

The Racha

Indigo Pearl Hotel

Banyan Tree Resort

Rayaburi Hotel Patong

Sugar Palm Grand Hillside

Baan Laimai Beach Resort

Koh Samui 

Ark Bar Beach Resort

Hansar Samui 

Nora Resorts & Hotels

Montien House 

Al's Group Hotels & Resort

Krabi 

Railay Bay Resort & Spa

Railay Great View Resort and Spa

Aonang Nagapura Resort and Spa

Ao Nang Buri Group

Haleeva Sunshine Hotel

Koh Phi Phi 

Phi Phi The Beach Resort

Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort And Spa

Tohko Beach Resort

Koh Lanta 

Pimalai Resort and Spa

Lanta Sand Resort & Spa

Long Beach Chalet

Koh Phangan 

Haadyao Bayview Resort & Spa

Dakanda Villa Beach Resort

Chantaramas Resort & Spa

Koh Tao 

Sensi Paradise Beach Resort

Dusit Buncha Resort

Koh Lipe

Mountain Resort

Hat Yai

V.L. Hatyai Hotel

Khao Yai

Muthi Maya Hotel

Khon Kaen

The Glacier Hotel

Pattaya

Baywalk Residence

April Suites Pattaya

LK The Empress

At Mind Serviced Residence

Furama Jomtien Beach Hotel

Bangkok 

lebua at State Tower

Grande Centre Point Sukhumvit - Terminal 21

Anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort and Spa

Grand Millennium Sukhumvit

Hansar Bangkok Hotel

Ramada Encore Bangkok Hotel

Best Western Plus @ 20 Sukhumvit

Novotel Bangkok On Siam Square Hotel

Jasmine Resort Hotel

Pai

Pai Island Resort

Chiang Rai 

Wiang Inn Hotel

Chiang Mai 

Chiang Mai Plaza Hotel

Rati Lanna Riverside Spa Resort

The Chedi Chiang Mai Hotel

The Twenty Lodge

Chiangmai Boutique House

Here is the complete list of award winning 494 Agoda partner hotels around the world.

4 SMRT Bus Drivers arrested for SMRT strike

4 male SMRT drivers are were charged for their roles in the illegal SMRT strike. They have been charged in the Subordinate Courts this afternoon at 5pm under section 10(a) of the Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) Act (Chapter 67) read with section 109 of the Penal Code (Chapter 224). If they are found guilty, they can be fined up to $2,000 or imprisoned for a term not exceeding 12 months, or both.

This Monday, 171 bus drivers went on strike to protest about their wage difference to Malaysian drivers and living conditions in the dorms. 88 of them continued with the strike on Tuesday. On Wednesday, it was announced that 20 SMRT bus drivers were called to Police Cantonment Complex to help with police investigation.

According to The Channel News Asia, representatives from the Chinese Embassy were seen at the Subordinate Courts on Thursday. All four SMRT drivers are China national. They are He Jun Ling, 32; Gao Yue Qiang, 32; Liu Xiangying, 33; and Wang Xianjie, 39 and according to media, they are not bailable under the statute and will be remanded for a week at the Central Police Station.

He Jun Ling faces an additional charge of making a post in the Chinese baidu titled "The insults and humiliations suffered by Singapore drivers (SMRT) (where is the dignity of the People's Republic of China bus drivers).


According to court documents, the post contained the following statements in Chinese:

"But why don't we think of it the other way around, if a few hundred Chinese Nationals take the lead, I am afraid the management of SMRT will be fired instead, not that we do not know the traffic situation in Singapore, a few hundred bus drivers do not report got work for a few days there will be public outcry in Singapore, Lianhe Zaobao, MyPaper and the English papers will all wait on us, trying to find out the reason(s) for the action. Land Transport Authority will have to start questioning SMRT." 

Baidu screengrab of SMRT bus driver's post
Source : Yahoo SG

"Rational and hot-blooded fellow workers have to take action! Let's go on MC together tomorrow 26, Monday and 27, Tuesday. We have to depend on ourselves for our dignity and interest, MC (whether paid or not paid) is nothing when compared to your own interest, just tens of dollars isn't? When it comes to fighting for our dignity it is far more important than tens of dollars. Please relay the message to as many as possible, not afraid of traitor(s), Monday morning at the entrance to hostels at Ang Mo Kio and Woodlands please inform those who are not aware, insist not to board the company transport. Boycott and despite those who are not taking any action, they will suffer guilty conscience. It concerns the interest if everybody, everyone should take part."
Source : Police arrested 4 male PRC nationals for illegal strike. They will be charged at 5pm 

Denise Ho Wan Si caught kissing girlfriend Deng Jiuyun

 Hong Kong-based Cantopop singer Denise Ho Wan-Si (何韻詩), who has announced her sexual orientation on stage at the "Dare to Love" event at the Hong Kong Pride Parade 2012, was photographed kissing her Taiwanese girlfriend, 29-year-old Deng Jiuyun (鄧九雲) on the streets of Taipei on November 25. According to PopularAsian web site, Denise and Jiuyun’s relationship have been rumored since the beginning of the year, after they met in theater project, Jia Bao Yu <賈寶玉>.

Denise’s relationship with Jiuyun did not come as a surprise to fans who have been following the pair’s banter on Weibo. Even before Denise admitted to being a lesbian at a gay pride parade, fans have been referring to Jiuyun as their “Yi So” (wife of Denise). 

It was understood the Denise is currently rehearsing for her theater project with Jiuyun in Macau. Jiuyun has met Denise’s parents and gets along well with them.  

Denise’s manager declined to comment over the photograph of Denise and Jiuyun kissing each other.
Source : Denise Ho Caught Kissing Rumoured Taiwanese Girlfriend Deng Jiuyun

Denise Ho Caught Kissing Rumoured Taiwanese Girlfriend Deng Jiuyun

On Nov 10, 2012, Denise Ho has announced her sexual orientation on stage at the "Dare to Love" event at the Hong Kong Pride Parade 2012 and called herself tongzhi, a Chinese slang word for gay:

"I am a 'tongzhi'!" Denise Ho Wan-Si told the crowd at Hong Kong's LGBT pride parade on Saturday. Tongzhi means comrade in Cantonese and is a widely used term in Hong Kong, Taiwan and China to mean gay. 

She is the first mainstream female singer in Hong Kong to have come out, following in fellow pop singer Anthony Wong's footsteps last year. 

The 35-year-old singer explained her decision to come out despite her belief that her sexual orientation should be a private matter. 

"For many years, when I faced questions from the media, I always felt that sexual orientation is a personal matter, that there is no need to label yourself or tell the public. But in 2012 when one would expect more acceptance and progress (in terms of gay equality), I find that there is still discrimination and prejudice. I feel that silence is no longer an option," she said to great applause. She acknowledged that coming out can be a diffcult decision for many as one may face discrimination at work, with friends and at home.
Source : Pop singer Denise Ho comes out as gay at Hong Kong pride parade

SHINee World Concert II in Singapore on Dec 8th

SHINee’s back! Freshly returning from the SMTown Concert III, South Korean contemporary R&B boy group is back to wow Singapore with their sharp moves and powerful vocals! SHINee staged their first world tour “SHINee World” in Singapore on 10 September 2011, which saw tickets selling out in 45 minutes. SHINee, consisting of members Onew, Jonghyun, Key, Minho and Taemin, are known for their smooth R&B tunes, sleek dance moves and iconic fashion style featuring high-top sneakers, skinny jeans and colourful sweaters dubbed the “Shinee Trend”. They are in a concert tour called Shinee World II (promoted as SHINee CONCERT "SHINee WORLD II"). This  is the second concert tour by South Korean boy group, Shinee. The tour, travelling to different cities across Asia, began in Seoul on July 21, 2012.

Dazzling girls from all over the world with sold-out concerts from all over Asia, SHINee is back to rock the Indoor Stadium! With hit tracks like Ring Ding Dong, Lucifer and their latest single Dazzling Girl, SHINee will give you a performance you cannot afford to miss.

Standard ticket prices are S$238 and S$178. But here is the deal: You can get admission Ticket to SHINee World Concert II in Singapore at 40% off by a deal. So you can pay only $142.80 instead of $238. Just follow the link here to grap the deal.

SHINee World Concert II One Night Only Performance

Dazzling girls from all over the world with sold-out concerts from all over Asia, SHINee is back to rock the Indoor Stadium! With hit tracks like Ring Ding Dong, Lucifer and their latest single Dazzling Girl, SHINee will give you a performance you cannot afford to miss. 

Let the “Maknae” Taemin amaze you as he shows off his powerful dance moves and popping skills. Get your adrenaline rushing with a hot and sassy performance from SHINee’s Flaming Charisma Minho! Be wow-ed by the strong and unique vocals of the main vocalist of the group, Bling Bling Jonghyun.  

Expect the unexpected from a performance staged by the Almighty Diva, Key. Be moved by the touching smooth vocals of the lead vocalist and leader Onew. Sing along and dance to the beat by the 5 shining boys of SHINee! Don't forget to memorize your fanchants too! - Source : Admission Ticket to SHINee World Concert II

10 Singapore hotels win agoda 2012 Gold Circle Award

Agoda.com, Asia’s leading hotel booking site, has announced the 2012 recipients of its prestigious Gold Circle Awards, recognizing hotels that lead by example in the competitive hospitality industry.

Launched in 2009, the awards are given to Agoda.com partners who are committed to accommodating the unique needs of the online booking industry, which has seen significant and steady global growth as technology continues to make online booking faster, easier and more convenient.

Previous Gold Circle Award winners were chosen because of their outstanding performance on  Agoda.com, a high number of positive customer reviews, and their utilization of Agoda.com’s custom-built Yield Control System (YCS). This year, however, the bar has been raised a bit higher, and new judging criteria make the list even more exclusive.

Agoda.com now also takes into account a greater amount of data, including aggregate scores for customer reviews, top-performing properties, competitive pricing, and for showing an understanding of the complex business dynamics that define the industry.

Commenting on this year’s awards, Mr. Errol Cooke, Director of Hotels – Global at Agoda.com said, “We are delighted to recognize our hotel partners for the 2012 Agoda.com Gold Circle Awards. Now in their fifth year, the awards are recognized as a mark of excellence in online distribution. This year, we have awarded hotels across the globe for their commitment to online revenue management and consistently offering great value at a fair price to Agoda.com customers.”

Resorts World Sentosa - Hard Rock Hotel is one of the hotels awarded with agoda 2012 Gold Circle.

When guests of any of this year’s 494 winners see the Agoda.com Gold Circle Award upon arrival, they can be assured that their stay will be relaxing, comfortable, and up to the standards that Agoda.com customers have come to expect.

Among dozens of hotels, 10 of them are in Singapore. Following Singapore hotels are awarded with the Gold Circle by agoda.

• Hotel 81 Management Pte Ltd 
• York Hotel Singapore
• Carlton Hotel Singapore
• Resorts World Sentosa - Hard Rock Hotel
• Grand Park Orchard
• Royal Plaza on Scotts
• Oasia Hotel Singapore 
• Goodwood Park Hotel
• Riverview Hotel Singapore
• PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road

See the full list of 2012 Gold Circle Award winners here.

Singapore's Biggest Pool Party at Hard Rock Hotel Pool

Singapore's biggest out of control pool party is back! This Saturday on December 1st 2012, you can get wet and wild at Resort World Sentosa Hard Rock Hotel Pool  at the GET WET Party! The party will feature music from Eclectic Soul Orchestra "Live", Dodgy Yamamoto, Bamrah Bros & special guest, Joachim W. (Indulgence, SG) and
Victoria (New Asia, SG) but no one is going there for the music! It is more for booze, babes and pools! The party is marketed as the biggest, sexiest event of Singapore and to earn these titles it will feature a FHM models bikini contest for all the party babes.

Here are the details:

Spring break party direct from Las Vegas. Bikinis & Speedos, sandy beaches & hot tubs, sexed up a notch with some Hardrock™ glitter and a hint of "Girls Gone Wild". The temperature is rising, its hot, so let’s get wet in a 5 STAR hotel!

Venue :  The Pool, @ Hard Rock™ Hotel, Sentosa, Singapore
Date   :  1st Dec’12, Saturday
Time  : 4pm till Midnight!

Pool Party at Hard Rock Hotel Pool

Events
✔ Famous DJs
✔ FHM models bikini contest
✔ Amazing 10 different pools!
✔ RAIN or SHINE event!

Music

☞ ECLECTIC SOUL ORCHESTRA "Live"
☞ DODGY YAMAMOTO, BAMRAH BROS & special guest!
☞ JOACHIM W.(Indulgence, SG)
☞ VICTORIA (New Asia, SG)
☞ TCP (Matteblacc)

And here is the deal. There is a deal to enjoy the party, booze and babes: Deal.com.sg offers 4 Admission Tickets plus 1 complimentary bottle of G.H Mumm Champagne to GET WET and get dunked into the 10 different pools! Only $180 instead of $222.

5-star Resorts World Sentosa - Hard Rock Hotel and its WOW pools!

also ...

VIP Cabanas

Limited available & starting at $1,000++
For reservations, email tables@lnlpresents.com

Cabanas include:
- VIP admission for 10 pax
- Private Pool
- 2 Bottles of Absolut Vodka
- 2 Bottles of G.H.Mumm Champagne
- 10 Cold Beers
- 10 MIX Energy Drink
- 10 Waters
- Assorted Mixers

SuperStar Gemini will cruise through Asian in 2013

Update : SuperStar Gemini, the newly refurbished 50,764-tonnage passenger cruise vessel from Star Cruises, set sail on a maiden voyage from Singapore Cruise Centre’s (SCC) HarbourFront Terminal on 28 December 2012.

SuperStar Gemini,  the newest addition to fleet of the leading Cruise line Asia-Pacific, Star Cruises, will embark on  a series of inaugural cruises across Asia’s hottest cruise ports at the start of 2013. The ship is currently undergoing a US $50 million large-scale refurbishment. The 50,764-tonnage vessel is designed with providing an all-encompassing holiday experience in mind, immersing guests in a resort-at-sea environment. The inside-and-out makeover will include  elegant cabins, stylish restaurants, chic entertainment and recreational venues, swanky retail, beauty & bodycare outlets.

SuperStar Gemini will kick off her inaugural sailing series in Penang (2 - 24 Jan) and a 7 days / 6 nights special cruise (25 Jan – 31 Jan) to Singapore / Ho Chi Minh City / Nha Trang / Hong Kong. The vessel will soak up the tropical fun in Sanya from 1 Feb to 31 March. From April to Oct 2013, the vessel will commence her summer homeport deployment in Shanghai offering over 40 cruises in 4D3N to 7D6N itineraries to a number of highly popular destinations in North Asia.

Captivating shows World-class illusionist and magician Charles Bach, who has wooed audiences from Hollywood to TV viewers the world over, will stop at nothing to amaze SuperStar Gemini audience with his captivating magic shows. Titled “WONDERS by Charles Bach”, his wholesome magical acts are perfect for the whole family with magic infused in dance, comedy and grand illusion that keeps your mind wondering. (*Available from 31st Jan onward).

Star Cruises will bring it up a notch with “Rhythm and Dance”, a production show featuring world-champion ballroom dance couple, Suzanna and Dima from Belarus, and a squad of European acrobats & dancers. This  spellbound entertainment show will excite the audience with  breathtaking  acrobatic  performances that will keep guests  on the edge of their seats, while the dance numbers will surely move the audience to the dance floor.

For some quality music moments, guests  can  indulge in melodies that are evocative of the good times in “Twice as Nice” (from 25 Jan onward). Featuring Westley Stevens, the crooner of the Grammy-nominated number  You Make Me Feel Brand New, and her stage partner Shelly Dartez,  the show brings to life  classics from  70’s and 80’s. “Chinese Legends”, available from April onward, will showcase Chinese household tunes immortalized by superstars such as Andy Lau, Anita Mui, Leslie Cheung, Jacky Cheung and Faye Wong.

Star Cruises's SuperStar Gemini 

Carefree excursions 

Since SuperStar Gemini will be homeported in various Penang, Sanya and Shanghai, guests have the option to choose different shore excursions that would highlight the best local tourist attractions to them.

From Shanghai-homeported cruises, guests can leisurely experience the tourist hotpots in the ports of Busan, Jeju and Yeosu. In Busan, guests  can  also  check out “Spaland”, which consists of a staggering 22 spas  filled with  natural spring water pumped up from 1,000 m underground and other distinctively themed international saunas. Guests also have the option to soak up the sun in the hugely popular Haeundae Beach or Bulguksa Temple, a site steeped in history and was designated a World Cultural Asset by UNESCO in 1995.

In Jeju, we will provide excursion options in which guests can visit the must-see Mystery Road, a place where gravity is deceptively defied, and Dragon Pond, brimming with crystal clear streams and rolling greens. While in Yeosu, guests will be awed by Suncheon Bay, one of the top five coastal wetlands in the world. They will be in the amidst of something special as the bay will play host to the International Garden Expo from April to October 2013.

Agile mind and body 

The TV game show sensation “Minute to Win It” has been “geminized”! Guests onboard SuperStar Gemini will have tonnes of fun testing their hand-eye and limps coordination in a series of quirky games, such as catching tennis ball with buckets attached to their heads or stacking up dices at the tip of a plastic stick held by the mouth. Contestants that reach the final in this fast-paced game will be rewarded with tempting prizes. Guests can also challenge their intellect agility in games, such as “Higher or Lower”, “What’s Next?” and “Crazy Friendly Feud”.

These are just snippets of what SuperStar Gemini has lined up.  With a slate of new entertainment, shore excursions and recreational activities in the making, SuperStar Gemini is showing how eager it is to welcome a new generation of cruise holidaymakers. Resort-at-sea is best exemplified on SuperStar Gemini and she is a determined lady that pledges to offer more as the launch day draws near …..

Star Cruises, together with Norwegian Cruise Line, is the third largest cruise operator in the world that owns a combined fleet of 18 ships visiting over 200 destinations in the world, offering approximately 35,000 lower berths.

The fleet cruises to over 200 destinations and islands in Asia-Pacific, North and South America, Hawaii,
Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Mediterranean and Bermuda.

Star Cruises is represented in more than 20 locations worldwide with offices and representatives in Hong Kong, Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam.

Apply Myanmar visa online

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia with a population of 55.6 million.  The country lies on the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea coast with Bangladesh and India to the west, China to the north, and Laos and Thailand to the east. Myanmar is mostly tropical and has three seasons: the hot season, the cold season, and the monsoon season.

There are several ways to apply to Myanmar visa. Since April 2012, travelers that require visa to enter Myanmar can apply and get their E-Visa in 4 easy steps online so you would not need to visit a Myanmar Embassy to apply for a visa:

1. File in the secure online application form - Applicant is required to enter all the necessary information in the application. The Myanmar Embassy advises travelers to apply for e-visa at least one month before your date of travelling to Myanmar.
   
2. Confirm and pay the processing fee - Applicant needs to recheck all the information is correct before proceed to the next step. Make the payment with Credit/Debit Card via eNETS. Acknowledgement email with application code will be sent to applicants.
   
3. Receive an approval letter within 3 working days - Within 3 days, applicants will get visa approval letter via email. Print out the letter with barcode (black and white print is accepted but needs to be clear) and bring along with passport, then show them to Immigration officer at Myanmar arrival checkpoints.
   
4. Receive your visa upon arrival to Myanmar - Upon arrival to Myanmar arrival checkpoints, present visa approval letter and passport to the Immigration officer to get passport stamped.

This online e-visa application only allows for a tourist visa to Myanmar. You are also required to travel with the passport for which the E-visa is issued for. If the visa application is not approved or visa expires without use, the processing fee will not be refunded.

You can go to http://www.myanmarevisa.gov.mm to apply to Myanmar e-visa online.

Ritz Carlton Hotel Kuala Lumpur

One of the best things about Kuala Lumpur is that it offers some of the world's cheapest 5-star hotels. Its downtown Golden Triangle, main shopping and nightlife district, has a five-Star hotel strip which offers great accommodation alternatives for tourists in the middle of KL. Ritz Carlton Hotel Kuala Lumpur is one of the best luxurious hotels in the area famous for its great location, good service, big, clean and comfortable rooms and afternoon tea. And all these comes with  $157 per night.

Location
As we have said. The Golden Triangle is Kuala Lumpur's main shopping and nightlife district. The district is located to the northeast of the Central KL and roughly covers the area north of Jalan Pudu, south of Jalan Ampang and west of Jalan Imbi and Jalan Tun Razak. Golden Triangle includes the shopping area of Bukit Bintang, the office towers of Jalan Raja Chulan, the Jalan Sultan Ismail five-star hotel strip, the Jalan P. Ramlee party street, and the entire Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) (not to be confused with KL's traditional City Centre) which is home to the Petronas Twin Towers, Suria KLCC shopping centre, KLCC Convention Centre and the KLCC Park.

Rooms
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur features 365 guest rooms and suites including the duplex Ritz-Carlton Suite and four Penthouses. The most basic room type, 430 square feet Deluxe Rooms comes with one king or two twin beds, feather beds, duvets and plush extra-large pillows,  marble bathroom with separate shower and tub, rainforest shower heads, high-definition flat panel televisions with DVD/CD player and great skyline views of Kuala Lumpur. 495 square feet  Executive Deluxe Rooms an extra study. The hotels suites are Executive Suite (Grand Deluxe Room), Premier Suites, Two-Bedroom Suite and 1,500 square feet The Ritz-Carlton Suites. The suites comes with  personalized in-room or check-in and out, personalized stationery complimentary limousine service, complimentary pressing service within an hour and complimentary Afternoon Tea for two in The Lobby Lounge (reservations required).

 Ritz Carlton Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Restaurants & SPA
The hotel has a SPA offering massage, skincare, hair care and nail care services. There are several restaurants in The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Kuala Lumpur: An Award-winning Cantonese restaurant named Li Yen, The Lobby Lounge famous for its afternoon tea, a luxe-elegant restaurant with open ‘theatre’ kitchen serving daily breakfasts.

Other 5 star hotels in Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle area

Park Royal Hotel

Traders Hotel by Shangri-La

Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur

Pavilion Residences

Count down to 2013 at Singapore Flyer

You can countdown to a brand new year, 2013, at 165-metre tall Singapore Flyer, as you indulge in Singapore Flyer’s unique in-the-sky flight experiences, and party the night away with music and exciting activities and events for everyone.

Here is the press release by Singapore Flyer for New Year Countdown to 2013:

You can check in to Singapore Flyer’s posh Sky Party countdown capsules for a trinity of merriment! Be greeted by new, spectacular aerial views of Singapore’s cityscape, a flute of premium Moet & Chandon champagne and an open bar in the skies, backed by the spectacular Marina Bay fireworks when 2013 arrives.

Good choices don’t end, as Celebrity Chef Eric Teo lends his touch of finesse to the popular Full Butler Sky Dining experience. On the eve and New Year’s Day, let your taste buds tingle over his intricately prepared 4-course creations, hosted over magnificent views from the Flyer and personalized in-capsule butler service.

Now for the party! Be whisked off your feet to the dance floor by Hopstacles, an active dance crew made up of youths bonded by their common passion for dancing. Be it Hip Hop, Popping or Street Jazz; be sure to catch their live performances as we boogie all the way through on New Year’s Eve. Aspiring young singers and veteran performers from Cacophony.SG, a music and dance interest group under The Frontier CC YEC and winners from SIM UOL Music Fest complements with their melodious vocals and swift moves.

For the young and young at heart, usher in the New Year on a high with MegaBounce at Singapore Flyer – the first-ever bungee assisted trampolines in the City. Be ready to be tossed over 8 metres mid-air, whilst performing gravity defying flips and turns for the ultimate fun factor.

Singapore Flyer is a good place to countdown to 2013.

Before it ends, get a glimpse of the Christmas Village in the Tropics at Singapore Flyer that will enthrall guests on a journey through the understated countryside before climaxing into a village set aglow with over a million bright LED lights adorning gift sheds, buildings and landscape.

And from 8pm up until 1am, get pumped up and party to your heart’s content with our in-house DJ spinning the most popular hits of today.

Make the last day of the year count and welcome 2013 with a bang at Singapore Flyer! Flight operations at Singapore Flyer will be extended till 1am (last flight at 12:30am).

For updates on special $10 tenants’ deals and activities at Singapore Flyer this New Year’s Eve, join us on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/singaporeflyer.

You can also book your flight tickets online (www.singaporeflyer.com) or over our mobile ticketing web app (“mTix”) and get at least 10% off tickets today!

Gangnam Style Psy will perform in Singapore Marina Bay Sands

Korean star PSY has been a phenomenal success in 2012. And he will be in town in Singapore this Saturday. On December 1st 2012, Korean super pop star PSY will be in Singapore for a free one-hour public showcase at Marina Bay Sands' Event Plaza! Marina Bay Sands has announced the news from its website:

"Everybody’s doing it… But we’re doing it for real and YOU CAN TOO! Let’s Get PSYched at Sands!

Worldwide phenomenon PSY, performing “Gangnam Style” is coming to Marina Bay Sands and we have a treat in store for you!

We are giving away 4,000 free tickets to watch PSY perform only at Marina Bay Sands on 1 Dec. "

Unfortunately, all the tickets have been snapped up in just few hours. Those lucky ones (the ones submitted the required information in the form and were directed to the confirmation page) can show up in person on Wednesday 28th November between 12pm and 8pm at the ticket collection venue to collect your ticket to this awesome showcase!

Get PSYched at Sands!

Tiger Airways Announces First Intrastate Route Fares Between Sydney and Coffs Harbour On Sale! (Press Release)

Coinciding with Tiger’s fifth birthday celebrations, the airline today announces its fifth new destination for 2012 with fares between Sydney and Coffs Harbour on sale from Monday 26 November 2012 from 59.95* each way.


According to Tiger Airways press release, Four weekly return flights between Sydney and Coffs Harbour will commence from Friday 15 February 2013, providing over 1400 visitor seats weekly through Sydney and Coffs Harbour airports, departing Sydney and returning from Coffs Harbour airport in the early afternoon. From late March, an additional fifth weekly service will increase the number of weekly seats to 1800 weekly through both airports.

When the new services commence on 15 February 2013, it will be the first time in the airline’s five year history that Tiger will touch down in Coffs Harbour. The new Sydney – Coffs Harbour route will also become the airline’s only intrastate route (all other domestic routes Tiger flies are interstate).

Tiger Airways Australia Commercial Director, Carly Brear says that today’s new route announcement from
Tiger is more good news for consumers as Tiger Airways continues to expand its services around Australia.
“Coffs Harbour is a great tourism destination for leisure seekers with a fantastic year round climate and classic Australian surf beaches and resorts, making it popular with couples and families in particular.


“Tiger will be the only low fare operator on the Sydney – Coffs Harbour route and we’re confident our
services will prove popular, stimulating demand and providing significant tourism and economic benefits to
both markets.”

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris, today welcomed the announcement by Tiger Airways that Coffs Harbour would be its first NSW regional flights destination.

Tiger Airways route map

“This is excellent news for regional NSW.  This significant increase in air services to regional NSW is a great
opportunity for tourism and local businesses and will grow the visitor economy in our state,” he said. Local member, Andrew Fraser MP, said, “I’m delighted that Tiger Airways has selected Coffs Harbour as its
first regional NSW destination. Coffs Harbour is the key tourism destination for the mid-north coast. I can
assure all visitors of a warm welcome to the Coffs Coast and that they will enjoy our terrific weather, tranquil
rainforests, sandy beaches and great festivals and events.”

Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight welcomed the new services to Coffs Harbour. "This is tremendous news and will well and truly put Coffs Harbour on the map as one of the major holiday and flight destinations in the state - and beyond. It's going to be great for tourism and great for our community and I am thrilled that this potentially massive boost to our local economy has come so early in my term as Mayor."


Sydney Airport chief executive officer, Kerrie Mather congratulated Tiger for continuing to expand its route
network – it’s first route to regional NSW.  "This new Coffs Harbour route is fantastic news for holiday makers, a boost for tourism in regional NSW and continues the growth of regional services from Sydney Airport.”

Tiger Airways fifth new destination confirmed for 2012 follows on from previous announcements of a return
to Cairns, Hobart, Adelaide and Mackay earlier this year.

The airline urges people wanting to seek the best value airfares to sign up to the e-newsletter on the website
homepage to be kept informed about the latest news and sales information directly from Tiger Airways
Australia.
 
Tiger Airways flights between Sydney and Coffs Harbour are on sale tomorrow (Monday 26 November 2012) from around 9pm AEST for travel period 15 February 2013 – July 2013.

Pounce online today to snap up the best fares! Book early and fly cheaper. For information and booking
details, visit www.tigerairways.com.


Key facts:
• Flights between Sydney and Coffs Harbour commence Friday 15 February 2013 departing Sydney
Airport and returning from Coffs Harbour regional airport in the early afternoon.

• From February, four weekly services between Sydney and Coffs Harbour on Monday, Wednesday,
Friday and Sunday – a fifth weekly Saturday service commences from 31 March 2103.  

• Tiger Airways operates the newest fleet of aircraft in Australia with average age of each aircraft
around four years old.  

• Since Tiger Airways commenced operations in Australia on 23 November 2007, the airline has carried
close to 10 million passengers around Australia.

High Flyers Show in Jurong Bird Park in December 2012

Shows have been synonymous with Jurong Bird Park for 30 years. This December holidays, the Birds n Buddies Show will make way for the conservation-driven High Flyers Show. In line with the new show, guests visiting the Bird Park this December will experience glitz and glamour the moment they arrive at the Park.

From the Palm Plaza to the ticketing entrance, guests will enter a world where colour lives, resplendent with colourful macaws and golden hoops centered around showbiz. Next stop – the Penguin Coast walkway, which transforms into a Walk of Fame! One photo wall will be lined with photographs of Shows dating back 30 years, and the other will showcase bird stars from the High Flyers Show. To satisfy the need for posing with flair, a giant photography backdrop with props awaits at Penguin Coast for guests to feel like stars. During weekends at 1.45pm, head back to Penguin Coast where all-time bird stars will make a special guest appearance at the Walk of Fame. Guests will hear more about their stories of stardom from the presenter, and have a chance to take a photograph with the bird stars.

More photography opportunities abound – A flock of young flamingos are eager to have their minutes of fame! Happening daily after the High Flyers Show, for 15 minutes at 11.45am and 3.45pm, guests can mingle with them and have an exclusive photograph taken with them after the new High Flyers Show at the Pools Amphitheatre.

Vicky, a great pied hornbill, flies to a Show Presenter in the High Flyers Show

An exclusive segment with a great photographic opportunity has been added to the weekend Penguin Feeding sessions. As guests learn more about these tuxedoed creatures, one lucky child who can answer a simple question will be invited to try his / her hand at feeding the African penguins in this up-close opportunity.

After seeing and taking pictures with so many feathered stars, it is also time to ponder – what makes a star? Held over the December weekends at 10.30am and 11.45am at the Breeding & Research Centre (BRC), A Star is Born is a programme for children between the ages of 6-12. Here, they will find out why birds are talented and gifted with abilities to sing, dance and draw from our avian experts!

Jurong Bird Park Activity Details - December 2012

After a day out at Bird Park, hang out at Terrace Kiosk right next to the Pool’s Amphitheatre for some yummy treats! Available all day throughout December, these cool treats and snacks are available at special combo prices starting from $7.90 for a hot dog set with fries and a drink. While at the Bird Park, do grab some specially priced retail merchandise at Wings, Feathers and Lory Loft while stocks last, like the motif mug at $22.90 which comes with a choice of either a free flamingo or penguin plush worth $15.90.

December will be a star-studded one out west at Jurong Bird Park, so make tracks here soon! There is no extra charge for the activities, but normal admission rates of $18 (adult) and $12 (child) apply.

Giant Panda Forest opens its doors with Kai Kai and Jia Jia

By this Thursday on November 29th 2012, Singapore will have the 16th zoo in the world (and Singapore will become the 11th country in the world) where you can see Giant Pandas outside China. The Giant Panda Forest, housing new foreign entertainment artistes of Singapore from China,  Kai Kai (凯凯) and Jia Jia (嘉嘉), will open to the public for a special preview. The opening will be in time for the year-end school holiday season.

The Giant Panda Forest is the most important highlight of upcoming River Safari, a new park located between Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. River Safari will be Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park and other than The Giant Panda Forest, it will offer will many freshwater attractions combined with river boat rides as its main highlights. The River Safari will only be opened in the first quarter of 2013 so The Giant Panda Forest will be accessible from a temporary gateway in Singapore Zoo. Visitors of Zoo will need to top-up their zoo ticket by 5 SGD per adult and 3 SGD per child to enter The Giant Panda Forest.

We are pleased that the giant pandas have settled into their new home and look forward to welcoming visitors who are excited to see Kai Kai and Jia Jia. By bringing visitors up close to these endangered bears, we aim to educate Singaporeans and tourists alike on the importance of conservation,” said Ms Claire Chiang, Chairman of WRS. Source : RIVER SAFARI’S GIANT PANDA FOREST OPENS NOVEMBER 29

Tickets to the giant panda exhibit will be on sale daily from 8.30am starting 29 November. These tickets can be purchased at Singapore Zoo’s ticketing counters and are valid only on the day of purchase. Tickets are on a first-come-first-served basis to accommodate an optimum number of visitors in the Giant Panda Forest at any one time.

Giant pandas Kai Kai (left) and Jia Jia (right) are in their new home at the Giant Panda Forest. 

Apart from seeing the giant pandas, visitors to the Giant Panda Forest can look forward to meeting other wildlife from China such as the golden pheasant and the red panda. The 1,500 square-metre exhibit – the largest of its kind in South East Asia – simulates the bears’ natural habitat, with lush live plants, boulders and water features. The temperature is kept between 18-22 degrees Celsius year round and humidity is set at 50-60 per cent to ensure the pandas’ comfort.

The two pandas are here for 10 years as part of a joint collaboration between China Wildlife Conservation Association and WRS to raise public awareness on wildlife conservation and develop a breeding programme for these endangered animals.

From Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai by Air Asia X

AirAsia X, a long-haul, budget airline based in Malaysia, has launched sale fare tickets for direct flights between Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur which are planned to start on 19 February 2013. AirAsia X will operate the Shanghai - KL route 6 times weekly. But the frequency of the service which flies between KLIA-LCCT and Shanghai Pudong International Airport will increase to daily from 1 May 2013. The airline will utilize Airbus A330-300 aircraft with a configuration of 12 Premium flatbed seats and 365 Economy seats from Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai and on return flight.

“Barely 5 months since we launched our first flight into the heart of China-Beijing, AirAsia X is spreading our wings further into the People’s Republic of China, with the announcement of Shanghai, one of the world’s largest cities by population. Jointly as a Group (Malaysia AirAsia and AirAsia X, Thai AirAsia and Philippines AirAsia), the addition of Shanghai will be our fourteenth destination in China after Hangzhou, Beijing, Chengdu, Guilin, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Nanning, Kunming, Wuhan, Chongqing and Xian including Hong Kong and Macau; offering our guests excellent connectivity across China.” said Azran Osman-Rani, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia X.

The new KL-Shanghai flight is the latest addition to the existing 11 direct outbound routes operated by AirAsia X from KL to mainland China. AirAsia X customers will also be able to book Fly-thru flights which allows them to purchase two flight sectors and connect via Kuala Lumpur seamlessly. Fly-thru will be available from Shanghai to Australia (Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Gold Coast), Indonesia (Medan, Surabaya, Bali, Jakarta), Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi,) Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh) and Singapore.

An AirAsia X Airbus A330-300. This type of aircraft will serve Kuala Lumpur - Shanghai route.

AirAsia X is a long-haul, budget airline based in Malaysia which started operations on 2 November 2007. Its first service flew from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia, to Gold Coast Airport in Australia.
The airline flies to Abu Dhabi, Beijing, Chengdu, Christchurch, Delhi, Gold Coast, Hangzhou, Kathmandu, London, Melbourne, Mumbai, Paris, Perth, Seoul, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo,  

21 puppies rescued at Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore

Very few can just stay without his or her heart melt after looking at the photo below. 21 puppies, 14 pomeranians and seven pugs, are seen lying side by side in the spare tyre compartment of a car stopped in Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore. The driver of the car was trying to smuggle the poor little puppies to Singapore when he was caught. The puppies are currently under observation at AVA's Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station.

In a statement named Rescue of The Pups the little ones looked sleepy and were kept in a dark and enclosed environment says Immigration Checkpoint Authority (ICA):

Seemingly only a few weeks old, they huddled together for security, warmth and comfort. Take a closer look and count. There were 21 of them!  

2.    On 20 November 2012 at about 11.45am, a Singapore-registered car pulled into the Woodlands Checkpoint for arrival clearance. The lone male driver was visibly nervous. Sensing something amiss, officers from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) directed the vehicle for further checks. Though there were bags in the car boot compartment, the meticulous officers did not leave anything to chances. They lifted the cover of the spare tyre compartment and found puppies sedated, lying side by side.  

3.    A total of 21 puppies (14 pomeranians and 7 pugs) were found. The 27-year-old male Singaporean driver, the puppies and the vehicle were referred to the Agri-food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) for further investigations. The puppies are currently under observation at AVA’s Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station.  

21 puppies, 14 pomeranians and seven pugs, are seen lying side by side in the
spare tyre compartment of a car stopped in Woodlands Checkpoint in Singapore
- Photo :  Channel News Asia

4.    The ICA and AVA would like to remind travellers against bringing live animals, birds and insects into Singapore without a proper permit. Animals that are smuggled into Singapore are of unknown health status. In the case of dogs and cats, the foremost concern is the risk of rabies, a fatal viral disease, which can be transmitted to man by the bite of a rabid animal. Singapore enjoys a rabies-free status but we cannot be complacent as the disease is endemic in the region. As such, AVA strictly regulates the import of animals to safeguard the health and welfare of animals, and prevent the introduction of exotic animal diseases, such as rabies, into Singapore.  

5.    Anyone who imports an animal without a licence is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both.  

6.    Our borders are our first line of defence in safeguarding Singapore's security. The enhanced security checks are critical to our nation’s security. We have tightened our security checks on passengers and vehicles at the checkpoints to prevent attempts to smuggle in undesirable persons, drugs, weapons, explosives and other contrabands. In view of the potential danger of introducing infectious diseases into Singapore, we would like to advise the public against the smuggling of animals, animal products, meat and meat products into Singapore. Source : Rescue Of The Pups

Agoda Singapore hotel deals 2013

Singapore hotels are not cheap. In fact, Singapore hotels rates are among the most expensive in the world and in Asia. So, it is important to hunt for Singapore hotel deals which offer the best value for money for your trip.

Agoda, Asia's leading and fastest growing online hotel reservation service, is one of the first place to look if you are looking for a hotel room in Asia. They regularly list many special Agoda Singapore hotel deals throughout the island. We have listed some of them below, which are valid throughout or most of the 2013. You can visit Agoda Special offers page for hotel deals in Singapore or many other Asian cities.

Here are agoda.com Singapore hotel deals and discounts for 2013.







Marina Mandarin Hotel

Marina Mandarin Hotel is a world class, 5-star hotel located in the heart of the city. Besides breathtaking views of Marina Bay and the financial district, the hotel also offers convenient access to the Marina Square Shopping Mall, Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre and The Esplanade.

Hot deal   : Stay 1 Night/s get 10 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013




Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel

Located right in the heart of the city, 5-Star Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel offers easy access to a variety of shopping and entertainment venues on Orchard Road. The hotel is only a short drive from Central Business District and 25 minutes from Changi International Airport.

Hot deal   : Stay 1 Night/s get 10 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013






Orchard Hotel Singapore

Located in Singapore’s most famous area, on Orchard Road, this property offers contemporary style and comfort, just five minutes from Ion Orchard, Forum Shopping mall and accessible to Orchard MRT. Able to cater to even the most discerning guests, Orchard Hotel Singapore features 653 elegant, homely rooms that are secluded away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hot deal   : Stay 3 Night/s get 20 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013





Pan Pacific Singapore Hotel

Located on Raffles Boulevard by Marina Square, the Pan Pacific Singapore presents the choice accommodation option for business and leisure travelers. The hotel is a mere20 minute away from the Singapore Expo and Changi International Airport and is within easy access of many Singapore attractions, including Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Little India, and Esplanade.

Hot deal   : Stay 1 Night/s get 10 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013





Parkroyal on Kitchener Road Hotel

4 Star Parkroyal on Kitchener Road Hotel Little India is is right next to City Square Mall and at the intersection of Serangoon Road. A five minute walk will take you to Farrer Park MRT and a short drive will get you to Singapore's shopping belt, Orchard Road.

Hot deal   : Stay 4 Night/s get 20 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013





Amara Singapore

The Amara Singapore in Chinatown / Tiong Bahru area offers 380 comfortable and well appointed guest rooms suitable for the discerning guest, both business and leisure. The Amara Singapore has all of the amenities, facilities and levels of comfort you would expect from a hotel of this class, and maintains the meticulous standards required by travel and tour operators worldwide.

Hot deal      : Stay 1 Night/s get 20 % discount
Valid until    : December 31, 2013




Albert Court Village Hotel by Far East Hospitality

Restored from the pre-war shophouses through preservation of its former charm, this hotel lies perfectly in the heart of Singapore's Bugis area, retaining its historical architecture with modern conveniences. Some of the world famous shopping destinations including Orchard Road, Mustafa and Sim Lim Square are nearby.

Hot deal   : Stay 1 Night/s get 15 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013





Berjaya Singapore Hotel

Conveniently located in the commercial hub of Singapore, this property is an ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Berjaya Singapore Hotel is also surrounded by a plethora of restaurants, pubs, galleries and Chinatown is just a stroll away.


Hot deal   : Stay 1 Night/s get 25 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013




Furama City Centre Hotel

Furama City Centre sits in the middle of bustling Chinatown and on the edge of the Central Business District. The hotel has easy access to MRT stations, as well as shopping, food, entertainment and Singapore's Changi Airport is only 20-minutes away.


Hot deal   : Stay 1 Night/s get 15 % discount
Valid until : December 31, 2013

Thailand Public Holidays 2013 Calendar

Thailand is the holiday hub of South East Asia. Many visitors from around the world goes to this land of smiles which offers a wide range of holiday experience for holiday goers. "The Land Of Smiles" has also many public holidays. Knowing them help you to plan your visit since during some of these holidays Thais will travel around and make everything, from plane tickets to hotel rooms, very expensive. Many of these holidays follow lunar calendar so their exact date will shift on the western calendar every year.

Below are the public holidays in Thailand and their dates in 2013.

New Year (Wan Khuen Pi Mai)
January 1st 2013
This almost global public holiday, observed on January 1, the first day of the year on the modern Gregorian calendar is a public holiday in Thailand.

Makha Bucha/Magha Puja
February 2nd 2013
Makha Bucha or Magha Puja is an important Buddhist festival celebrated in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos on the full moon day of the third lunar month. This date usually falls in February of the modern western calendar. Makha Bucha Day is for the veneration of Buddha and his teachings on the full moon day of the third lunar month. On this day, Buddhists tend to go to the temple to perform merit-making activities.

In 2013, Makha Bucha falls on Sunday. In Thailand, if holidays fall on a Saturday or Sunday they might be postponed to the following weekdays so expect a 3 days long weekend this year.

King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great Day (Wan Chakri)
April 6th 2013
Thais commemorate the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty and the founding of Bangkok by King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke in 1782. Officially known as King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great Day and Chakri Dynasty Memorial Day.

In 2013, Wan Chakri is falls on Saturday so April 8th 2013 will be a 1 day holiday.

Thai New Year (Songkran)
April 13 - 16 2013
 Prime holiday of the year, The Songkran Festival, is a major holiday period when many Thais return home for family reunions during this period. Although a nationwide holiday, the most famous Songkran Festival celebrations are in the northern city of Chiang Mai, where it continues for six days and even longer. The Festivaa is also a party for foreigners and one of the best times to to visit Thailand for immersion in its culture.

Labor Day (Wan Raeng Ngan Haeng Chat)
May 1st 2013
Labor Day is known as Wan Raeng Ngan Haeng Chat in Thailand and is a public holiday.

Coronation Day (Wan Chattra Mongkhon)
May 5th - 6th 2013
This holiday commemorates the coronation of the reigning King of Thailand, King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day (Changing Dates)
May 11th 2013

Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient royal rite held in Cambodia and Thailand to mark the traditional beginning of the rice-growing season.  Also observed as farmers day, each year's date is astrologically determined and announced by the Bureau of the Royal House Hold.

05/24/2013   Vesakh, Visakha Bucha
May 5th 2013
Also observed as National Tree Day, Vesak is a holy day which is traditionally observed not only in Thailand but  by Buddhists in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan, India, Nepal and the South East Asian countries of Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Sometimes informally called "Buddha's Birthday", it actually encompasses the birth, enlightenment (nirvāna), and death (Parinirvāna) of Gautama Buddha.

Vesak Day in Thailand

Mid Year Day (Wan Yut Klang Pi Thanakhan)
July 1st 2013

Asanha Bucha, Asalha Puja, 1st Day of Lent
July 22nd 2013
Also known as Dhamma Day,  Asanha Bucha is one of Theravada Buddhism’s most important festivals. This festive, commemorating the Buddha's first discourse (Buddha’s first sermon in which he set out to his five former associates the doctrine that had come to him following his enlightenment), the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, falls on full moon of 8th Thai lunar month. In 2013, the public holiday will be on July 22nd.

Vassa, Khao Phansa
July 23rd 2013
Buddhist observance marking the beginning of Vassa, also known as Buddhist Lent, is celebrated on the First waning moon, 8th Thai lunar month, which is July 23rd in 2013.

HM the Queen's Birthday, Mother's Day (Wan Chaloem Phra Chonmaphansa Somdet Phranang Chao Phra Boromma Rachininat)
August 12th 2013 
This day is to commemorate the birthday of Queen Sirikit in 1932. It is also observed as National Mother's Day.

Chulalongkorn Day (Wan Piyamaharat)
October 10th 2013
This day commemorates the passing of King Chulalongkorn, one of the greatest kings of Siam, in 1910. Chulalongkorn managed to save Siam from being colonized and his reforms were dedicated to Siam’s insurance of survival in the midst of Western colonialism. For this reason Chulalongkorn earned the epithet Phra Piya Maharat (พระปิยมหาราช – The Great Beloved King).

Loi Krathong
November 18th 2013   
Loi Krathong is probably the most beautiful and romantic festival in Thailand. Lotus-shaped receptacles (kratong) are decorated with flowers, candles and incense sticks and then floated (loi) in fresh water sources like rivers, lakes and ponds. At this day, people also release sky lanterns known in Thai as khom loi in large quantities to the sky.

HM the King's Birthday, Father's Day (Wan Chaloem Phra Chonmaphansa Phrabat Somdet Phra Chao Yuhua)
December 05th 2013
This day commemorates the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1927. It is also observed as National Day and National Father's Day.

Constitution Day (Wan Rattha Thammanun)

December 12th 2013
Commemorates the promulgation of the first permanent constitution in 1932

New Year's Eve (Wan Sin Pi)
December 31st 2013