Top 4 eco-friendly hotels you should experience in Singapore

Hotels in Singapore are committed to living up to Singapore's reputation as a 'Garden City', upholding eco-friendly practices and high-level holiday experiences for travelers. Check out these 4 hotels for your next trip that are just as luxurious as they are sustainable.

Six Senses Duxton

Opened barely two months ago, the Six Senses Duxton represents the luxury range’s first city hotel and foray into Singapore, though it will be accompanied by a bigger counterpart at Maxwell later in the year. If you are not familiar with Six Senses, they are known for pushing a rustic yet polished hospitality experience that mixes sustainability with wellness.

Sustainability measures are practiced at every level, including the supply chain, the hotel returns story foam boxes back to the suppliers to be reused, while single-use plastics (plastic drinking straws, bottles and paper plates) are not stocked at all.

Oasia Hotel Downtown

Juxtaposed against the towering concrete structures in Singapore’s Central Business District, Oasia Hotel Downtown stands out with its verdant facade. Creepers intertwine with the contrasting crimson panels, while tall trees from the sky gardens peek through, engulfing the entire building and creating a massive vertical garden.

It is not just the exterior of this tropical skyscraper that is impressive though. More greenery peppers the leisure areas, welcoming fauna like birds and insects into its ecosystem. The open design promotes natural ventilation and provides shade, reducing the need for air-conditioning. Rainfall is collected to irrigate the flourishing gardens, emphasising the hotel’s commitment to sustainability.

JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach

One of the latest entrants onto the crowded Singapore hospitality scene, the JW Marriott Hotel South Beach’s approach is as architecturally arresting as it is eco-friendly. Any visitor there would have noticed the soaring metal canopy, its undulating features, designed by British architects Foster and Partners, is meant to mimic ocean waves but the design has also been angled in such a way so as to lower overall temperatures by approximately two degrees.

Not only that, the structure also collects rainwater for usage and has been outfitted with solar panels, the energy collected goes to light up the building’s facade.

Parkroyal on Pickering

When it comes to eco-friendly digs in Singapore, Parkroyal on Pickering is definitely one of the most committed players, especially with its verdant veneer made up of live plants. And they are not just there for show, there are gardens located on every fourth floor, and the ample amount of vegetation help to absorb heat, reducing the reliance on cooling systems.

Part of their water supply comes from a mix of rainwater, as well as Newater (Singapore’s recycled water). Small wonder that the hotel has clinched the Asia’s Leading Green Hotel accolade at the World Travel Awards for three consecutive years.

See more: Top popular street food dishes in Singapore

Source Hiasia

How to spend Christmas in Singapore

Christmas in Singapore may not be as cool as Christmas in many other Asian countries, but this year, Singapore outdoes itself, creating the merriest and brightest holiday atmosphere in all of Asia.

See the lights on Orchard road

The best place to marvel at pretty Christmas lights in Singapore is Orchard Road. Sporting a new theme every year, the most of Singapore's busiest shopping street is also its most dressed out at the holidays. The best-decorated portions of the road stretch from the forum on the West side of Orchard to Orchard gateway in the East. Make a night of it by walking the full length of the road, admiring the creative Christmas displays and dropping inside the malls to see who gets bragging rights for the biggest and best Christmas tree.

Go shopping at the Christmas markets

Tick off the items on your Christmas list at one of Singapore's pop-up Christmas markets. Here are a few of the best Christmas markets in Singapore.

Great Christmas Village: Located in front of Ngee Ann City on Orchard Road, the Great Christmas Village will be opened from 25 November to 25 December. Admission is free. Expect plenty of food vendors, Christmas concerts and stage performances, rides for kids, and several boutiques and brand name stalls offering unique Christmas gifts and treats.

Christmas in Queenstown Located at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Dundee Road, Christmas In Queenstown is open 15 to 17 December and 22 to 23 December. Admission is free. Expect one-of-a-kind handicrafts and artisan goods from local independent shops, live music, and a variety of food stalls.

Festive Market at Christmas Wonderland Located at Gardens by the Bay, the Festive Market is open 1 to 26 December. A ticket is required. Expect the closest thing to European Christmas markets that you’ll find in Singapore offering up tasty treats like fluffy Dutch pancakes and churros and chocolate, plus a wide variety of handmade crafts and gifts.

Indulge in a few Christmas-inspired treats

Walk into almost any luxury hotel cafe in Singapore this time of year and you’re sure to find a plethora of lavishly-decorated cakes and yule logs, delectable gingerbread men, and all sorts of other Christmas-inspired treats to tempt your sweet tooth. The Fullerton Hotel, Goodwood Park Hotel, and the Grand Hyatt are particularly well-known for offering some of the best, most extravagant Christmas delicacies.

Give ice skating in the tropics

Feeling brave this holiday season? Ice skating is one of the most popular holiday traditions in countries a little further north of the equator, and while you wouldn’t normally expect that tradition to carry over into the tropics, Singapore makes sure that if you want to make a fool of yourself on the ice, you totally can. There are two permanent ice rinks in Singapore – The Rink at JCube in East Jurong and Kallang Ice World at Kallang Leisure Center. Both rinks offer 2-hour skating sessions and the price of your ticket includes skates rental.

See more: Celebrating Christmas in Asian countries

Source: Internet

Christmas in Asia: the must-visit destinations in Singapore

Christmas vacations have become a trend now. And there are many destinations around the world that celebrate this festival with all glit-and-glam. If you are planning to visit Singapore during Christmas holidays, you will be glad to know that this country has some wonderful celebrations hosted on various venues. Check out some of the stunning places to visit where you can witness celebrations of Christmas in Singapore, at its best.

Orchard Road

Hands down, the best place to marvel at pretty Christmas lights and take selfies with reindeer in Singapore is Orchard Road. Sporting a new theme every year, Singapore’s busiest shopping street is also its most dressed out at the holidays.

The best-decorated portions of the road stretch from the forum on the west side of Orchard to Orchard Gateway in the east. Make a night of it by walking the full length of the road, admiring the creative Christmas displays, and dropping inside the malls to see who gets bragging rights for the biggest and best Christmas tree!

Christmas Village

This glitzy European-inspired Christmas Village makes its debut this year alluding to the theme of “Endless Wonders”. There are more than 25 pop-up stores with exclusive brands such as Haagen Dazs, Starbucks, SK-II, Tiffany & Co. Live bands and carollers will also stage daily gigs, boosting the festive spirit as you indulge in retail therapy and a slew of amusement rides. After feasting on delicious Yuletide treats and shopping for artisanal gifts, swing by Hitachi’s Santa House and snap a selfie or two with Santa. This is one of the best Christmas celebration in Singapore.

The Season of Joy 

Located at the Capitol Kempinski Hotel on Stamford Road, The Season of Joy is open 6-24 December 2019. Admission is free. Expect all sorts of festive fun with an 8-metre tall Christmas tree, a skating rink, photos with Santa, and 50+ booths offering up Christmas goodies, mulled wine, and holiday gifts and games. While you are out this way, pop on over to CHIJMES where you will find an Instagram Wonderland, perfect for keeping your holiday selfie game going strong.

Christmas Wonderland

Foodies, this one is dedicated to you! Savour, in partnership with Christmas Wonderland, is hosting Singapore’s premier gourmet festival that will delight even the most sophisticated of gourmands. With delectable cheese tasting and a decadent selection of specially selected hams and turkey to whet your appetite, you can certainly have a sampler of what Christmas is going to taste like. Acclaimed celebrity chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants will be present to showcase their culinary masterpieces for an elevated dining experience. Wine and dine until you are absolutely full and contented!

See more: Do not miss these beautiful islands when visiting Singapore

Source Internet

Singapore and Japan have the most powerful passports in the world

Singapore and Japan are ranked #1, according to the latest 2019 Henley Passport Index. This proves that these two countries have the most powerful passports in the world as of October 2019.

Once again, Singapore’s passport has come on top. According to the Henley Passport Index, the city has tied with Japan for first place, granting its citizens access to 190 countries (out of a maximum of 227) without a visa in advance.

Following the two countries are South Korea, Finland, and Germany in second place, with visa-free access to 188 countries. In third place are Denmark, Italy and Luxembourg. This data comes from the International Air Transport Association, which is the world’s largest and most accurate database of information.

According to CNN, Finland’s rise in ranks is mainly due to Pakistan’s change in their visa policy, which now allows for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for 50 countries. Notably, the U.S. and U.K. have dropped to 6th place, the lowest rank they have held since 2010. Taking into consideration Brexit measures, the U.K. is not likely to maintain its position.

Afghanistan has once again ranked at the bottom place, allowing visa free access to only 25 countries.

The steady increase of visa-free access has proven that many countries value its passport strength for their economic and social progress. For the majority of the index’s history, the top spots have been traditionally held by countries within Europe or the US – that is, until last year. Asian countries are increasingly coming up on top when it comes to economic activity and both global mobility, the study reveals.

See more: The best destinations to celebrate Christmas in Asia

Source: Internet

Top classic Singaporean desserts you should try

Desserts in Singapore are a melting pot of diverse influences. They come together in a colorful smorgasbord of food that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From icy cool dishes to jellies and cakes, here are the most popular delicious local desserts you’ve got to try when traveling to the sunny island.

Ice Kachang

This list would not be complete without what might be the mother of all Singapore desserts, Ice Kachang. There are red beans, jelly, chendol and attap chee (palm seed) hidden under a mountain of shaved ice, then soaked in the rainbow and doused with evaporated milk. A hit of Ice Kachang is sublime in the hot and humid weather. At many stalls, you can also add extra toppings like sweet corn, mango, durian or chopped peanuts.

Durian Pengat

The durian pengat is a stinky-fruit lover’s decadent delight, though non-durian lovers may also be converted if they only dare to give it a try. The dessert has its roots in Malay and Peranakan communities, where pengat refers to fruits or root vegetables cooked in a concoction of coconut milk and sugar. In the case of the durian pengat, the durian is cooked to a silky smooth mousse-like consistency, topped with extra durian for a double helping. Some innovative versions have it topped with butter croutons and dollops of palm sugar syrup, which only makes this well-loved dessert all the more flavourful.

Cheng Tng

Served hot or cold, this golden colored soup typically contains dried longans, white fungus, barley, gingko nuts and sweet syrup. Ingredients can vary. Some vendors may add other yummy additions like dried persimmon, sweet potato or lotus seeds. As a hot dessert, cheng tng is a warming and comforting treat – simply satisfying. If the weather is just too hot, have the dessert icy cold instead. So sweet and cooling.

Pulut Hitam

This dessert of Indonesian origin has all the typical Southeast Asian ingredients: coconut milk, pandan leaves and palm sugar. Black glutinous rice is painstakingly boiled until soft and creamy, then simmered with palm sugar and pandan leaves and served with swirls of coconut milk. Also a fixture of many dessert stalls in Singapore’s hawker centres, pulut hitam is both a filling snack and dessert of choice for many locals.

Ice Cream Sandwich

Ice cream carts can often be found in Singapore’s city centre, offering ice cream sandwiches instead of conventional cones or cups. These colourful carts are helmed by ice cream uncles or aunties (the endearing term Singaporeans give to these traditional vendors), delighting both kids and adults. They play a vital role in preserving an old-school Singaporean way of eating ice cream: sandwiched in fluffy pandan-flavoured bread, or crispy wafer slices. Flavours are typically chocolate, vanilla or strawberry, but if you are lucky, you can also find durian, sweetcorn or red bean varieties for a truly Singaporean take.

Read more: Taste the traditional sweets from Asia

Source Internet

Best street arts destinations in Singapore

Did you know that despite Singapore’s reputation for clean streets and strict rules, there is a flourishing street art scene? Here are the spots where you can find the best street art in Singapore.

Victoria Street

Fans of Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic‘s works don’t have to go to Penang to see his art – he has several works, featuring his trademark images of local children playing, scattered along this stretch of road between Arab Street and Jalan Sultan. The piece with an actual supermarket shopping cart is especially popular. Also of note is the giant camera-shaped building that houses the Vintage Cameras Museum, with a mural by Singaporean artist Ceno2 on its side.

Haji Lane

Hipsters love Haji Lane for its many indie boutique retail outlets – but what attracts the photographers are the Insta-worthy murals that cover the walls of the shophouses near the Beach Road junction. Colombian artist Didier Jaba Mathieu’s futuristic pop-colour characters feature prominently, but don’t miss the alleyway that connects to Arab Street which features works by Ceno2, Yok & Sheryo and local crew ZincNiteCrew.

Aliwal Street

Pop into the alleyway behind the Aliwal Arts Centre and you’ll find an ever-changing canvas of works on the back walls. This is thanks mostly to local crew RSCLS, who have a studio space in Aliwal Arts Centre alongside many of Singapore’s prominent performing arts groups. Pop over to Sultan Arts Centre across the street to find graffiti shop The Blackbook Studio and you may even chance upon the artists at work on the long panels in its yard.

Tekka Centre

A popular market and hawker food spot in Singapore, there are several murals to be found around the market complex. This is thanks to the annual ARTWALK Little India, an outdoor arts festival that commissions local and international artists to create works celebrating the culture of this Indian heritage district. Check out Buffalo Road, Race Course Road and Bellilos Lane for various murals that pay tribute to past landmarks and customs unique to Little India.

222 Queen Street

Art is in abundance in this district with the Singapore Art Museum, National Museum and various private galleries within a stone’s throw – but of biggest note to street art lovers is the long wall on the side of 222 Queen Street that connects to Waterloo Street. This long wall is an outdoor gallery for various street art projects, the latest being a collaborative project between Singaporean and Thai street artists.

See more: Reasons why Singapore is a worth-visiting destination once

Best family-friendly destinations in Asia

The largest continent on Earth, Asia offers plenty of diversity to suit all kinds of travellers. From dramatic landscapes and gorgeous beaches to lively modern cities and places with rich cultural heritage, Asia has it all. If you’re travelling with the kids, here are some of the best places for a family-friendly vacation in Asia.

Universal Studios in Singapore 

Singapore

Marina Bay

With a plethora of places to stay, a public transportation system that is clean, efficient, and easy to use, myriad places to eat and plentiful attractions, Singapore is a firm favourite for families exploring Asia. The beaches may not be the best, but many hotels have pools and you can stroll along the sands of Sentosa Island and East Coast Park and take trips to interesting islands such as Lazarus, St. John’s, and Pulau Ubin.

Singapore Flyer

Soak up the views from the Singapore Flyer, see the iconic Merlion statue in Merlion Park, admire diverse and colourful religious buildings, like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Masjid Sultan, and Sri Mariamman Temple, and have outdoor adventures at places like the MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore Botanic Gardens, the Southern Ridges, and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Few children can resist the appeal of the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, and there are many museums to stimulate curious minds. See the nocturnal animal kingdom at the amazing Singapore Night Safari.

Universal Studios Singapore

Singapore really comes into its own for families on Sentosa Island, with theme parks and fun activities galore. Enjoy movie-themed rides and shows at Universal Studios Singapore, see the exhibits at Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, ride the luge, soak up the views from the Tiger Sky Tower, marvel at the gigantic Merlion, and step back in time at Fort Siloso. Adventurous kids will love MegaZip Adventure Park, and Kidzania Singapore is perfect for younger children.

Hong Kong

Disneyland Hong Kong

Another of Asia’s super cities, Hong Kong combines the old and the new for a cultural, fun, and family-friendly holiday. Easy to navigate and with plenty of places to eat, drink, and sleep, there’s something to keep everyone happy here.

Hong Kong Disneyland is an obvious choice for a day out filled with laughter and smiles. There are rides to suit all ages, shows, and the opportunity to get up close and personal with beloved characters. The firework show over Sleeping Beauty’s Castle is the perfect end to a magical day. For more thrills and theme-park fun, spend a day at Ocean Park Hong Kong. The combination of rides, shows, play areas, aquatic creatures, and a large aquarium will appeal to kids (and adults!) of all ages.

Causeway Bay

Ride the Peak Tram for iconic views over Hong Kong’s harbour, stroll through the pleasant Hong Kong Park, or take a boat trip to try and spot pink dolphins. See the unusual rock formations in the eight Geoparks, ride the cable car to the large Buddha statue at Po Lin Monastery, and take heaps of cool pictures at the Trick Eye Museum or the 3D Repulse Bay Visual Art Museum.

Shanghai, China

One of China’s most modern cities, Shanghai has a rich assortment of things to do and see for everyone. You can combine theme parks and cultural sites with museums, parks, shopping centres, and more. There are many child-friendly places to stay and finding something tasty to eat won’t be a problem. Try some of the many themed restaurants for an unusual dining experience.

Shanghai Disneyland is often near the top of the list of things to do with the kids, and for good reason. The theme park offers a day of enchantment for all. Cool down on hot days at the enormous Dino Beach Water Park, and watch many animals at Shanghai Wild Animal Park and Shanghai Zoo. Home to an impressive array of marine life from around the globe, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium also boasts the longest underwater tunnel in the world. Watch your kids’ faces light up as you hop on the rail car that travels through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel and soak up the views from the observation deck of the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower.

Oriental Pearl Tower Shanghai

People’s Park is a top place for children to run and play and for adults to stretch their legs, and Century Park has a fishing lake, a beach, walking trails, and play areas. Other lovely parks include Fuxing Park, and Jing’an Sculpture Park.

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

Snap loads of great holiday pictures at the interactive 3D Magic Fun House and cosy up with celebrities at Madame Tussauds. The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum will inspire curious kids and the skilled acrobats at Shanghai Circus World will leave them speechless.

Tokyo, Japan

Thriving, colourful, busy, and modern, Tokyo is a veritable wonderland for kids and adults alike. The bright lights and crowds may be a bit overwhelming at times, but there are heaps of attractions to enchant children and help everyone to have fun. The Japanese capital has many family-friendly accommodations, from Western-style hotels to traditional Japanese abodes and ryokans where you can all sleep on tatami mats and experience local life.

Panda in Ueno Zoo

There are theme parks galore, with something for all ages. Enter the cute and kitsch world of Hello Kitty at Sanrio Puroland or let kids act out a range of scenarios at Kidzania. Then observe many creatures from across the world at Ueno Zoo followed by a few hours at Hanayashiki, believed to be the oldest amusement park in Japan. Or why not channel your inner architects at Legoland Discovery Center?

Of course, few kids can ignore the allure of Tokyo Disneyland! DisneySea is a unique Disney experience, combining all your favourite characters and water-based attractions, while Universal Studios takes you deep into the world of movies.

Tokyo Disneyland

Kodomo no Mori Park

For some outdoor time, check out the city’s many pleasant parks. Walk with dinosaurs in Kodomo no Mori Park, paddle on the lake at Inokashira Park, and soak up the scenes at Futakotamagawa Park, the Imperial Palace Garden, and Shinjuku Gyoen. If you’re up for a hike, head to Mt. Takao. Don’t miss the nearby Monkey Park too.

Read more: 5 places to travel with kids in Asia

Source The Culture Trip

6 food centres to visit in Singapore

Can’t decide where to start on your Singaporean food adventure? Here are our top 6 picks of hawker centres in the country to check out.

Old Airport Road Food Centre

Built on the runway of Singapore’s old Kallang airport, Old Airport Road Food Centre is a favourite hawker centre for locals to get their fix of cheap good hawker food, though this hidden gem has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years. There are over 150 stalls to choose from on the first level, and more sundry shops can be found on the second level. Popular picks that see long queues include Nam Sing Fried Hokkien Mee, Xin Mei Xiang Lor Mee and Dong Ji Fried Kway Teow. Each stall has their own opening hours, do your research before you visit.

Maxwell Food Centre

Maxwell Food Centre is one of the more popular hawker centres with both Singaporeans and tourists in the heritage Chinatown district. It garnered international interest thanks to visits by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay to the Hainanese Chicken Rice at Tian Tian Chicken Rice, now a Michelin Bib-Gourmand recipient and a must-try dish at this hawker center. But if you’d rather skip the perpetually long queue, there are plenty of other stalls that locals love, like Zhen Zhen porridge and Maxwell Fuzhou Oyster Cake.

Chinatown Complex

It’s easy to get lost in Chinatown Complex Food Centre, home to the largest hawker centre in Singapore, with over 260 food stalls on its second floor, offering a generous variety of Singaporean street food fare. From the cheapest Michelin meal at Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle, to international craft beer on tap at Smith Street Taps, there is a whole plethora of choice, all at budget friendly prices.

Tekka Centre

Tekka Centre’s first level houses a bustling hawker centre. Located in Little India, naturally you have to try the North and South Indian food stalls here. Allaudin’s Briyani specialises in tasty briyani rice dishes while Sri Tiffin is where you can get your fix of masala thosai. The name Tekka comes from Teh Kia Kah or Tek Kah, a Hokkien name meaning ‘foot of the bamboos’, a reference to the many bamboo plants growing along Rochor Canal.

Tiong Bahru Food Centre

Tiong Bahru Food Centre has 85 food stalls to choose from, with several hawker food stalls awarded Michelin Bib-Gourmand and The Plate awards – just look for the long queues. A breakfast favourite is Jian Bo Shui Kueh, with its steamed rice cakes topped with diced preserved radish and a dollop of chilli. Tiong Bahru Fried Kway Teow, Teochew Fish Soup and Lor Mee 178 are good places to start your eating journey, though Tiong Bahru does have many indie cafes and restaurants to check out as well.

Lau Pa Sat Hawker Centre

The historic Lau Pa Sat or ‘the old market’ in the middle of Singapore’s Central Business District is a tourist favourite hawker centre, both for its convenient location near the attractions in the downtown area, and its unique octagonal shape and wrought iron arches with its iconic clock tower in the center. The small road next to the food centre is blocked off at nights to allow for satay sellers to take over, recreating a once-famous Satay Street under the stars.

See more: The most crowded places in Singapore

Source: Internet