Singapore Food Trail officially opens at Singapore Flyer
Singapore's first 1960s-themed food street, Singapore Food Trail, was officially opened on Friday morning.
Singapore Tourism Board's Chief Executive, Aw Kah Peng, said the Singapore Food Trail introduces a novel concept in the local food experience.
The 16,000 square feet dining haven at the Singapore Flyer boasts a strong mix of heritage hawkers who represent Singapore's original and most famous hawker foods. It is part of the attraction's S$10 million plan to roll out fresh offerings.
Select Group Limited invested S$2 million in the project.
Its Executive Director, Jack Tan, said what makes the Singapore Food Trail stand out is its authentic decor and design that bring out a realistic 1960s atmosphere in the heart of the city.
He said: "We are creating a road with food stalls just by the side of the road to bring back the old times where we (used to) sit by the roadside for meals."
Ms Aw said: "This is for everyone, everyone who loves food. And I think there are a lot of people who love food, not just in Singapore, but everywhere in the world.
"So we certainly know that this is already going to add to everything else that we already have, but with a very special flavour, which is to bring back the memories that we have from the 1960s."
The Singapore Food Trail features 17 heritage hawkers, which include many established names.
Many of them have been in the business for 30 to over 50 years.
The oldest stall at the Singapore Food Trail is High Street Tai Wah Pork Noodle which started in 1939 and was originally located along the Singapore River.
Businessman David Ho, who recently visited the Singapore Food Trail with his family, said: "It was quite a fascinating experience for us, especially my children, to get a feel of what life was like during our parents' and grandparents' time. With good hawker food and a charming 1960s atmosphere, it really gives you a taste of the good old days."
The Singapore Food Trail is open from 10.30am to 10.30pm from Sunday to Thursday, and from 10.30am to 11.30pm on Friday and Saturday.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday 25 February 2011
Monday 21 February 2011
Joo Chiat is Singapore's first Heritage Town
Joo Chiat is Singapore's first Heritage Town
Joo Chiat is Singapore's first Heritage Town and the National Heritage Board (NHB) is funding the area's plans to showcase more of its rich legacy to the tune of S$100,000.
This part of Singapore seems to have two faces to it. On one hand, there are shophouses exuding the old world charm of Singapore in the 1960s and 70s. And on the other, swanky cafes and eateries, offering the modern worker a welcome reprieve from a hard day at the office.
However, those are not the only reasons why Joo Chiat has been crowned Singapore's first Heritage Town.
Alvin Tan, Director of Heritage Institutions with the National Heritage Board, said: "Joo Chiat was awarded our Heritage Town for 2011 because of the quantity and the diversity of heritage activities that they're proposing as well as the extent of community involvement from grassroots organisations to associations such as the Peranakan Association and the Eurasian Association."
And such programmes will be boosted with fresh funds from the National Heritage Board.
The government also hopes other constituencies will emulate Joo Chiat's desire to preserve its legacy.
Information, Communication and the Arts Minister Lui Tuck Yew said: "By engaging the population through programming in the heartlands, partnerships to develop heritage content and so on, we strive to encourage and promote more active participation and co-ownership of our shared heritage."
The search for Singapore's next heritage town will occur in 2013.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Joo Chiat is Singapore's first Heritage Town and the National Heritage Board (NHB) is funding the area's plans to showcase more of its rich legacy to the tune of S$100,000.
This part of Singapore seems to have two faces to it. On one hand, there are shophouses exuding the old world charm of Singapore in the 1960s and 70s. And on the other, swanky cafes and eateries, offering the modern worker a welcome reprieve from a hard day at the office.
However, those are not the only reasons why Joo Chiat has been crowned Singapore's first Heritage Town.
Alvin Tan, Director of Heritage Institutions with the National Heritage Board, said: "Joo Chiat was awarded our Heritage Town for 2011 because of the quantity and the diversity of heritage activities that they're proposing as well as the extent of community involvement from grassroots organisations to associations such as the Peranakan Association and the Eurasian Association."
And such programmes will be boosted with fresh funds from the National Heritage Board.
The government also hopes other constituencies will emulate Joo Chiat's desire to preserve its legacy.
Information, Communication and the Arts Minister Lui Tuck Yew said: "By engaging the population through programming in the heartlands, partnerships to develop heritage content and so on, we strive to encourage and promote more active participation and co-ownership of our shared heritage."
The search for Singapore's next heritage town will occur in 2013.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Battlestar Galactica reopens
Battlestar Galactica reopens
The world's tallest duelling roller-coaster the Battlestar Galactica re-opened on Monday after eleven months of being grounded.
The ride, which is the star attraction of Universal Studios Singapore, was forced to shut down just a week into the opening of the theme park.
Routine tests had detected a fault in one of the seat support structure of the ride, leaving one seat detached from its frame.
The fault was attributed to fatigue cracks detected in a welded component of the seat's support structure, the part which attaches the coaster's seat to its frame.
All welded components for the seats have since been replaced with a new machined part.
Justin Ko, a 24-year-old marketing executive, brought his 61-year-old step father, from Australia to the park.
"I brought him here to try it out, because you know he's all the way from Australia and if a 61-year-old man can take it like I told him, anyone can take it really...anybody," he said.
Another visitor, 22-year-old student Lee Leann, said: "We just planned to come today and we found out it was opened. We are quite excited. We are quite lucky, fortunate that it's today."
Universal Studios Singapore said it took nine months to fully complete testing the ride.
This involved thousands of simulated ride cycles using water dummies and coming up with a revised engineering model using computer simulation and actual on-site conditions.
From the model, engineers came up with a revised design for the ride which was then field tested.
A unit was also sent to Germany and put through an accelerated simulation where engineers simulated the entire lifespan of the equipment.
This is to ensure the revised model met the longevity requirement of the ride.
Donald Maclean, Ride & Show Director with Universal Studios Singapore, said: "It took nine months to complete the process because of the level of due diligence that required and also because of the fact that with the park opened 10 hours a day, our window of opportunity for testing is quite limited in the overnight hours.
"We found that there was one of the welds that was overstressed in actual field operations. Sometimes that happens in theme park rides that new and unique so what we did was we removed that weld and have it replaced with a solid steel machined part and we also added a gusset which was able to provide us with a second load path or some redundancy. That way we were able to ensure that the longevity requirements are met."
Still, not everything went smoothly at the Cylon section of the roller coaster as Channel NewsAsia witnessed guests disembarking just before it took off.
At least three engineers were seen inspecting the ride, which was then put though one more round of cycle test, before guests were again allowed onboard.
Channel NewsAsia understands that a guest had pulled out a camera and the ride was stopped as a safety precaution.
As part of its safety procedures, it is the standard operating procedure for technical crew to check everything when the ride is on an emergency brake. The ride is then tested once more without guests and when it comes back, all safety checks are done again, and guests are allowed onboard.
Universal Studios Singapore did not want to reveal visitor numbers for the day.
Some people Channel NewsAsia spoke to have said that they had put off visiting the theme park for as long as Battlestar Galactica was grounded.
John Hallenbeck, Vice-President of Park Operations with Universal Studios Singapore, said: "We've heard quite a bit that people were waiting for Battlestar Galactica to re-open and it is open now, the park is fully opened and everybody has the opportunity to ride the movies and we're very happy it's back up and running.
"In some regards people thought the park was not fully opened which is not true and now that it is I think we'll see visitorship rise."
Coming attractions for the park includes the Madagascar ride, which will open by the middle of this year and Transformers, which will open early next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The world's tallest duelling roller-coaster the Battlestar Galactica re-opened on Monday after eleven months of being grounded.
The ride, which is the star attraction of Universal Studios Singapore, was forced to shut down just a week into the opening of the theme park.
Routine tests had detected a fault in one of the seat support structure of the ride, leaving one seat detached from its frame.
The fault was attributed to fatigue cracks detected in a welded component of the seat's support structure, the part which attaches the coaster's seat to its frame.
All welded components for the seats have since been replaced with a new machined part.
Justin Ko, a 24-year-old marketing executive, brought his 61-year-old step father, from Australia to the park.
"I brought him here to try it out, because you know he's all the way from Australia and if a 61-year-old man can take it like I told him, anyone can take it really...anybody," he said.
Another visitor, 22-year-old student Lee Leann, said: "We just planned to come today and we found out it was opened. We are quite excited. We are quite lucky, fortunate that it's today."
Universal Studios Singapore said it took nine months to fully complete testing the ride.
This involved thousands of simulated ride cycles using water dummies and coming up with a revised engineering model using computer simulation and actual on-site conditions.
From the model, engineers came up with a revised design for the ride which was then field tested.
A unit was also sent to Germany and put through an accelerated simulation where engineers simulated the entire lifespan of the equipment.
This is to ensure the revised model met the longevity requirement of the ride.
Donald Maclean, Ride & Show Director with Universal Studios Singapore, said: "It took nine months to complete the process because of the level of due diligence that required and also because of the fact that with the park opened 10 hours a day, our window of opportunity for testing is quite limited in the overnight hours.
"We found that there was one of the welds that was overstressed in actual field operations. Sometimes that happens in theme park rides that new and unique so what we did was we removed that weld and have it replaced with a solid steel machined part and we also added a gusset which was able to provide us with a second load path or some redundancy. That way we were able to ensure that the longevity requirements are met."
Still, not everything went smoothly at the Cylon section of the roller coaster as Channel NewsAsia witnessed guests disembarking just before it took off.
At least three engineers were seen inspecting the ride, which was then put though one more round of cycle test, before guests were again allowed onboard.
Channel NewsAsia understands that a guest had pulled out a camera and the ride was stopped as a safety precaution.
As part of its safety procedures, it is the standard operating procedure for technical crew to check everything when the ride is on an emergency brake. The ride is then tested once more without guests and when it comes back, all safety checks are done again, and guests are allowed onboard.
Universal Studios Singapore did not want to reveal visitor numbers for the day.
Some people Channel NewsAsia spoke to have said that they had put off visiting the theme park for as long as Battlestar Galactica was grounded.
John Hallenbeck, Vice-President of Park Operations with Universal Studios Singapore, said: "We've heard quite a bit that people were waiting for Battlestar Galactica to re-open and it is open now, the park is fully opened and everybody has the opportunity to ride the movies and we're very happy it's back up and running.
"In some regards people thought the park was not fully opened which is not true and now that it is I think we'll see visitorship rise."
Coming attractions for the park includes the Madagascar ride, which will open by the middle of this year and Transformers, which will open early next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday 20 February 2011
Marina IR seeks more land to expand
Marina IR seeks more land to expand
Las Vegas Sands, the operator of Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, has sought more land from the Government to expand its operations here as demand is rapidly catching up with supply, said Mr Sheldon Adelson, its chairman and chief executive.
"The demand that this property has created for Mice is rapidly taking us to the point where we'll even have to ration space," he said, adding that it could happen within 12 to 18 months.
Mice refers to meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. The IR's Sands Expo and Convention Centre has 1.3 million sq ft of space for such use.
"We need all the land we can get. We are burdened by our success," he added.
Mr Michael Leven, president and chief operating officer of Las Vegas Sands, said that the Gardens by the Bay nearby could have space for an "additional hospitality product".
He added that the company is looking into developing plots of land near the IR.
Both men spoke to the local and foreign media at a press conference yesterday to mark the grand opening of the IR, which also marked the official opening of its ArtScience Museum.
The United States-based Las Vegas Sands also announced that its US$6-billion (S$7.6-billion) property has drawn 11 million visitors since it opened in April last year. This month, the IR filled 87 per cent of its more than 2,500 hotel rooms.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Las Vegas Sands, the operator of Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, has sought more land from the Government to expand its operations here as demand is rapidly catching up with supply, said Mr Sheldon Adelson, its chairman and chief executive.
"The demand that this property has created for Mice is rapidly taking us to the point where we'll even have to ration space," he said, adding that it could happen within 12 to 18 months.
Mice refers to meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. The IR's Sands Expo and Convention Centre has 1.3 million sq ft of space for such use.
"We need all the land we can get. We are burdened by our success," he added.
Mr Michael Leven, president and chief operating officer of Las Vegas Sands, said that the Gardens by the Bay nearby could have space for an "additional hospitality product".
He added that the company is looking into developing plots of land near the IR.
Both men spoke to the local and foreign media at a press conference yesterday to mark the grand opening of the IR, which also marked the official opening of its ArtScience Museum.
The United States-based Las Vegas Sands also announced that its US$6-billion (S$7.6-billion) property has drawn 11 million visitors since it opened in April last year. This month, the IR filled 87 per cent of its more than 2,500 hotel rooms.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Wednesday 16 February 2011
Gardens by the Bay reaches first milestone
Gardens by the Bay reaches first milestone
Singapore's latest national project, Gardens by the Bay, overcame funding difficulties to reach its first milestone on Tuesday with the capping of one of its two giant conservatories, the Flower Dome.
The project faced rising construction costs when work started in 2007, leading overall cost to increase by more than 10 percent to over S$1 billion.
But with more public and private funding and the use of cost-efficient technology, the project was able to take off, said National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan.
"We managed to do some value engineering, bring the cost down slightly and then ask for more funds. And I think the Finance Ministry was very understanding and managed to give us the funds. And we're also of course going for corporate sponsorships," he said.
For example, the Kingfisher Lake - one of two main lakes in Gardens by the Bay - was sponsored a million dollars by Japanese company Kikkoman last year.
Securing the final glass panel of the Flower Dome conservatory on Tuesday, Mr Mah described the "Capping-Up" ceremony as a milestone in a "long journey".
He said that the Flower Dome, along with the second conservatory the Cloud Forest, are not just "architectural icons" but an "amalgamation of architectural, environmental engineering and horticultural excellence."
The Flower Dome will feature Mediterranean-type plants, while the Cloud Forest, which is under construction, will mirror tropical high elevation regions like those in South America and Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
The two conservatories were designed with environmental sustainability in mind, applying cutting-edge technologies that provide energy-efficient solutions in cooling.
The facade of the 1.2-hectare Flower Dome is made up of 3,300 special glass panels, which let in the sunlight while keeping the heat out. This allows the conservatory to mimic the cool-dry climate of the Mediterranean.
To ensure energy efficiency, only areas occupied by plants and visitors will be cooled.
The conservatory is divided into smaller gardens featuring plants such as poppy flowers from California and Cat's Paw plants from Australia. One of the gardens - the Flower Field - will have changing displays including tulips and lavender.
The conservatory will also have an event space which can be rented out for weddings and other functions. There will also be two restaurants within the conservatory - one serving Mediterranean cuisine and the other, Chinese.
The Flower Dome is part of Bay South - the first of three gardens in Gardens by the Bay.
Construction for Bay South is expected to be completed by November, and opened to the public in June next year.
Explaining the time difference, Mr Mah said the plants need time to grow.
NParks says previews of Bay South will be arranged for organised groups from February next year.
It adds that the preview period will help the Gardens ease into its operations and allow the public to provide feedback.
The public will also get a sneak peek of the Flower Dome in November this year, during the World Orchid Conference.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's latest national project, Gardens by the Bay, overcame funding difficulties to reach its first milestone on Tuesday with the capping of one of its two giant conservatories, the Flower Dome.
The project faced rising construction costs when work started in 2007, leading overall cost to increase by more than 10 percent to over S$1 billion.
But with more public and private funding and the use of cost-efficient technology, the project was able to take off, said National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan.
"We managed to do some value engineering, bring the cost down slightly and then ask for more funds. And I think the Finance Ministry was very understanding and managed to give us the funds. And we're also of course going for corporate sponsorships," he said.
For example, the Kingfisher Lake - one of two main lakes in Gardens by the Bay - was sponsored a million dollars by Japanese company Kikkoman last year.
Securing the final glass panel of the Flower Dome conservatory on Tuesday, Mr Mah described the "Capping-Up" ceremony as a milestone in a "long journey".
He said that the Flower Dome, along with the second conservatory the Cloud Forest, are not just "architectural icons" but an "amalgamation of architectural, environmental engineering and horticultural excellence."
The Flower Dome will feature Mediterranean-type plants, while the Cloud Forest, which is under construction, will mirror tropical high elevation regions like those in South America and Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
The two conservatories were designed with environmental sustainability in mind, applying cutting-edge technologies that provide energy-efficient solutions in cooling.
The facade of the 1.2-hectare Flower Dome is made up of 3,300 special glass panels, which let in the sunlight while keeping the heat out. This allows the conservatory to mimic the cool-dry climate of the Mediterranean.
To ensure energy efficiency, only areas occupied by plants and visitors will be cooled.
The conservatory is divided into smaller gardens featuring plants such as poppy flowers from California and Cat's Paw plants from Australia. One of the gardens - the Flower Field - will have changing displays including tulips and lavender.
The conservatory will also have an event space which can be rented out for weddings and other functions. There will also be two restaurants within the conservatory - one serving Mediterranean cuisine and the other, Chinese.
The Flower Dome is part of Bay South - the first of three gardens in Gardens by the Bay.
Construction for Bay South is expected to be completed by November, and opened to the public in June next year.
Explaining the time difference, Mr Mah said the plants need time to grow.
NParks says previews of Bay South will be arranged for organised groups from February next year.
It adds that the preview period will help the Gardens ease into its operations and allow the public to provide feedback.
The public will also get a sneak peek of the Flower Dome in November this year, during the World Orchid Conference.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
S'pore Yacht Show to be held on Apr 8-10
S'pore Yacht Show to be held on Apr 8-10
With its Formula One race and integrated resorts (IRs), Singapore is being dubbed the Monaco of the East.
Now that reputation will be further sealed when it hosts the Singapore Yacht Show from April 8 to 10 this year.
It will be the first time the event is being staged outside of Europe and the Middle East.
South East Asia could be the next playground for super yachts, and Singapore could be the anchor.
The Singapore Yacht Show, to be held at One Degree 15 Marina in Sentosa, aims to provide a platform for industry players to meet and do business.
The Superyacht Singapore Association estimates the Asia Pacific market to be worth some 350 to 500 million US dollars (S$447m to S$639m).
Organisers of the show expect about 20 boats and some 5,000 visitors.
Traditional industry leaders like Europe and the US are seeing a decline, and are looking at alternative winter destinations besides the Caribbean.
Many of Asia's millionaires and billionaires are also looking to ride the wave of alternative lifestyle options.
Andy Treadwell, MD of Informa Yacht Group, said: "There has to be a hub, there has to be somewhere where you come to do the business, there has to be somewhere where the owners can fly in with easy access and Singapore has all those communications and facilities. This is a financial hub and a great place for business."
Business ripples could also benefit the region, as Singapore targets up to 200 super yachts by 2015, up from the 16 in 2006.
There will also be economic spin-offs.
Arthur Tay, executive chairman & CEO, SUTL Group, said: "They will enjoy Singapore, go to the IRs, see our parks, do big shopping and visit their private bankers."
There is even a company building such yachts, but more facilities and support services are needed as the sector makes a bigger splash.
Besides boats, the organisers are looking at staging a golf tournament in conjunction with this year's show and there are even plans to bring in a motor sports event should the Changi Motorsports Hub be up and running by next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
With its Formula One race and integrated resorts (IRs), Singapore is being dubbed the Monaco of the East.
Now that reputation will be further sealed when it hosts the Singapore Yacht Show from April 8 to 10 this year.
It will be the first time the event is being staged outside of Europe and the Middle East.
South East Asia could be the next playground for super yachts, and Singapore could be the anchor.
The Singapore Yacht Show, to be held at One Degree 15 Marina in Sentosa, aims to provide a platform for industry players to meet and do business.
The Superyacht Singapore Association estimates the Asia Pacific market to be worth some 350 to 500 million US dollars (S$447m to S$639m).
Organisers of the show expect about 20 boats and some 5,000 visitors.
Traditional industry leaders like Europe and the US are seeing a decline, and are looking at alternative winter destinations besides the Caribbean.
Many of Asia's millionaires and billionaires are also looking to ride the wave of alternative lifestyle options.
Andy Treadwell, MD of Informa Yacht Group, said: "There has to be a hub, there has to be somewhere where you come to do the business, there has to be somewhere where the owners can fly in with easy access and Singapore has all those communications and facilities. This is a financial hub and a great place for business."
Business ripples could also benefit the region, as Singapore targets up to 200 super yachts by 2015, up from the 16 in 2006.
There will also be economic spin-offs.
Arthur Tay, executive chairman & CEO, SUTL Group, said: "They will enjoy Singapore, go to the IRs, see our parks, do big shopping and visit their private bankers."
There is even a company building such yachts, but more facilities and support services are needed as the sector makes a bigger splash.
Besides boats, the organisers are looking at staging a golf tournament in conjunction with this year's show and there are even plans to bring in a motor sports event should the Changi Motorsports Hub be up and running by next year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore: 3rd most expensive city in Asia
Singapore ranks 3rd most expensive city in Asia
Singapore is the third most expensive location in Asia to live in, according to the latest accommodation reports from consultancy firm ECA international.
Taking the top spot is Tokyo, followed by Hong Kong in the second place, and Seoul clinching the fourth spot.
Rents have been on the rise in Asia, boosted by economic growth, strong Asian currencies and the region's growing expatriate numbers.
ECA, which provides solutions for companies placing their staff overseas, said that Singapore's rental prices for an unfurnished two-bedroom property fell by about 17 per cent in 2009 during the global recession.
This pattern was reversed last year when rents in Singapore rose 15 per cent to US$2,810 a month.
However, when Singapore rents are quoted in the local currency, they have increased at the lower rate of 9 per cent year-on-year.
In fact, globally, Singapore went up to 5th position, from 6th in the annual ranking last year.
Regional Director at ECA Asia, Lee Quane said that the assignee numbers are up again in Singapore, following falls during the economic downturn.
Quane added that this has placed pressure on rental accommodation here, particularly in areas popular with expatriates.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong has recorded some of the biggest price increases worldwide, up to 3rd position from 9th over the year.
Between 2009 and 2010, the price of renting two-bedroom property rose by 22 per cent to US$2,830 a month. This contrasts with decline in rentals of around 25 per cent the previous year.
Rents in Shanghai and Beijing, globally ranked 24th and 45th, rose last year after falls in the previous year.
Shenzhen, taking the 114th position, is the cheapest location in China for two-bed apartments, reflecting the big variations in costs across the country.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore is the third most expensive location in Asia to live in, according to the latest accommodation reports from consultancy firm ECA international.
Taking the top spot is Tokyo, followed by Hong Kong in the second place, and Seoul clinching the fourth spot.
Rents have been on the rise in Asia, boosted by economic growth, strong Asian currencies and the region's growing expatriate numbers.
ECA, which provides solutions for companies placing their staff overseas, said that Singapore's rental prices for an unfurnished two-bedroom property fell by about 17 per cent in 2009 during the global recession.
This pattern was reversed last year when rents in Singapore rose 15 per cent to US$2,810 a month.
However, when Singapore rents are quoted in the local currency, they have increased at the lower rate of 9 per cent year-on-year.
In fact, globally, Singapore went up to 5th position, from 6th in the annual ranking last year.
Regional Director at ECA Asia, Lee Quane said that the assignee numbers are up again in Singapore, following falls during the economic downturn.
Quane added that this has placed pressure on rental accommodation here, particularly in areas popular with expatriates.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong has recorded some of the biggest price increases worldwide, up to 3rd position from 9th over the year.
Between 2009 and 2010, the price of renting two-bedroom property rose by 22 per cent to US$2,830 a month. This contrasts with decline in rentals of around 25 per cent the previous year.
Rents in Shanghai and Beijing, globally ranked 24th and 45th, rose last year after falls in the previous year.
Shenzhen, taking the 114th position, is the cheapest location in China for two-bed apartments, reflecting the big variations in costs across the country.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Bumper year for tourism in 2010
Bumper year for tourism in 2010
Indonesian wife Esther Mathadinata is a regular visitor to Singapore, where she enjoys shopping, visits the integrated resorts and goes for routine medical check-ups.
The 50-year-old has been flying to and from her hometown of Bandung in West Java every two months since 2007 to visit her 22-year-old son, Mario.
"She comes to visit me whenever she's free," said Mr Mathadinata, who studies at the Singapore Management University.
Madam Mathadinata is among 2.3 million Indonesian tourists who visited Singapore last year, a 32 per cent jump from 1.74 million in 2009.
Indonesia has consistently been Singapore's top visitor- generating market.
Singapore Tourism Board's assistant chief executive of the international group and corporate-development group, Mr Leong Yue Kheong, said that last year's growth was due to the increase in the number of low-cost-carrier flights between Singapore and Jakarta.
He was speaking at a media conference yesterday at Hotel Fort Canning, where he shared details of the tourism sector's performance last year.
A check with the Changi Airport Group (CAG) showed that airlines such as Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air increased the number of flights from Jakarta last year, while KLM and Qatar Airways have started flights between Singapore and Bali.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Indonesian wife Esther Mathadinata is a regular visitor to Singapore, where she enjoys shopping, visits the integrated resorts and goes for routine medical check-ups.
The 50-year-old has been flying to and from her hometown of Bandung in West Java every two months since 2007 to visit her 22-year-old son, Mario.
"She comes to visit me whenever she's free," said Mr Mathadinata, who studies at the Singapore Management University.
Madam Mathadinata is among 2.3 million Indonesian tourists who visited Singapore last year, a 32 per cent jump from 1.74 million in 2009.
Indonesia has consistently been Singapore's top visitor- generating market.
Singapore Tourism Board's assistant chief executive of the international group and corporate-development group, Mr Leong Yue Kheong, said that last year's growth was due to the increase in the number of low-cost-carrier flights between Singapore and Jakarta.
He was speaking at a media conference yesterday at Hotel Fort Canning, where he shared details of the tourism sector's performance last year.
A check with the Changi Airport Group (CAG) showed that airlines such as Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air increased the number of flights from Jakarta last year, while KLM and Qatar Airways have started flights between Singapore and Bali.
-News courtesy of Omy-
'New crown jewel' of Marina Bay
'New crown jewel' of Marina Bay
WHEN the first of three waterfront gardens in Marina Bay opens in June next year, it will transform the financial district into an icon of flourishing flora.
When ready, Bay South will feature two conservatories which employ cutting-edge cooling technology to promote plant growth.
At 54ha, Bay South is the largest garden in the Gardens by the Bay project spanning a total of some 100ha by the National Parks Board. The other two gardens are Bay East and Bay Central.
One of the two conservatories, called the Flower Dome, will showcase olive trees among others, and flower varieties from the Mediterranean, such as tulips, chrysanthemums and roses.
At 1.2ha, or about the size of two football fields, it will also house two restaurants and a 2,306-sq-m space which can accommodate up to 1,000 people.
Its sister structure situated nearby, a 0.8ha glass dome called Cloud Forest, will feature flowers and plants which grow in high altitudes, such as those from places like South America and Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
About 226,000 plants worldwide are expected to be featured in both conservatories.
Yesterday, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan helped to put the Flower Dome's last glass panel in place in a ceremony that marked the completion of its 16,000-sq-m facade.
-News courtesy of Omy-
WHEN the first of three waterfront gardens in Marina Bay opens in June next year, it will transform the financial district into an icon of flourishing flora.
When ready, Bay South will feature two conservatories which employ cutting-edge cooling technology to promote plant growth.
At 54ha, Bay South is the largest garden in the Gardens by the Bay project spanning a total of some 100ha by the National Parks Board. The other two gardens are Bay East and Bay Central.
One of the two conservatories, called the Flower Dome, will showcase olive trees among others, and flower varieties from the Mediterranean, such as tulips, chrysanthemums and roses.
At 1.2ha, or about the size of two football fields, it will also house two restaurants and a 2,306-sq-m space which can accommodate up to 1,000 people.
Its sister structure situated nearby, a 0.8ha glass dome called Cloud Forest, will feature flowers and plants which grow in high altitudes, such as those from places like South America and Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
About 226,000 plants worldwide are expected to be featured in both conservatories.
Yesterday, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan helped to put the Flower Dome's last glass panel in place in a ceremony that marked the completion of its 16,000-sq-m facade.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Friday 11 February 2011
All train services on KTM lines restored
All train services on KTM lines restored
After nearly a week of disruptions due to floods in Malaysia, commuters from Singapore are now able to travel by train to Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian Railway (KTM) said all affected services have been restored and are operating normally.
But while departure times have not been affected, commuters can still expect delays in their arrival times, by more than 30 minutes.
KTM said the trains will still need to slow down at certain stretches where works to repair the damaged tracks have just been completed.
Train services on KTM's southern and eastern sectors were disrupted following floods on January 30.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
After nearly a week of disruptions due to floods in Malaysia, commuters from Singapore are now able to travel by train to Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian Railway (KTM) said all affected services have been restored and are operating normally.
But while departure times have not been affected, commuters can still expect delays in their arrival times, by more than 30 minutes.
KTM said the trains will still need to slow down at certain stretches where works to repair the damaged tracks have just been completed.
Train services on KTM's southern and eastern sectors were disrupted following floods on January 30.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sing dollar expected to strengthen
Sing dollar expected to strengthen
The Singapore dollar, which has risen 11 per cent in the past one year, can climb even higher. Analysts said it could reach 1.20 against the US dollar by the end of this year.
For some exporters, it is a problem. In a survey by the Singapore Business Federation, 52 per cent of Singapore companies have cited the stronger currency as a challenge this year.
But market watchers said the Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) top priority is to tame inflation. And to do that, the central bank may allow for faster appreciation of the Singapore dollar when it reviews its monetary policy in April.
Last year, the MAS allowed the Singapore dollar to appreciate at a rapid clip to pre-empt rising inflation.
With inflationary pressures in Asia continuing to mount, the MAS and other central banks are seen maintaining a hawkish stance, which means higher interest rates as well as stronger currencies.
China's central bank raised interest rates for the third time in four months on Tuesday, and on Wednesday morning, it fixed its US dollar-yuan reference rate at a record high. That drove Asian currencies higher on Wednesday.
Thio Chin Loo, senior currency strategist at BNP Paribas, said: "That will lend a hand to Asian currencies because before the China rate hike, Asian currencies were doing better already from a weaker USD in general, but also the market seems to be rewarding currencies where central banks are seen to be trying to tackle inflation."
A strong dollar, which is Singapore's main weapon to deal with inflation, makes locally manufactured goods more expensive in Western markets.
But with other central banks in the region also tightening policy, most Asian currencies may rise in sync. And that, experts said, will protect Singapore's export competitiveness.
David Cohen, director of Asian economic forecasting at Action Economics, said: "They are always going to be nervous about a potential loss of competitiveness, but as long as China continues to allow some appreciation, the others would not feel quite so vulnerable, and at the same time, as long as the growth continues strong, maybe they will feel a little more willing to tolerate appreciation."
Economists said Singapore's non-oil domestic exports will record a healthy 12 per cent growth this year. While that is half of last year's growth, the export performance will still be in line with global economic expansion, which is threatened by sovereign debt worries in Europe, uncertain recovery in the US and tensions in the Middle East.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Singapore dollar, which has risen 11 per cent in the past one year, can climb even higher. Analysts said it could reach 1.20 against the US dollar by the end of this year.
For some exporters, it is a problem. In a survey by the Singapore Business Federation, 52 per cent of Singapore companies have cited the stronger currency as a challenge this year.
But market watchers said the Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) top priority is to tame inflation. And to do that, the central bank may allow for faster appreciation of the Singapore dollar when it reviews its monetary policy in April.
Last year, the MAS allowed the Singapore dollar to appreciate at a rapid clip to pre-empt rising inflation.
With inflationary pressures in Asia continuing to mount, the MAS and other central banks are seen maintaining a hawkish stance, which means higher interest rates as well as stronger currencies.
China's central bank raised interest rates for the third time in four months on Tuesday, and on Wednesday morning, it fixed its US dollar-yuan reference rate at a record high. That drove Asian currencies higher on Wednesday.
Thio Chin Loo, senior currency strategist at BNP Paribas, said: "That will lend a hand to Asian currencies because before the China rate hike, Asian currencies were doing better already from a weaker USD in general, but also the market seems to be rewarding currencies where central banks are seen to be trying to tackle inflation."
A strong dollar, which is Singapore's main weapon to deal with inflation, makes locally manufactured goods more expensive in Western markets.
But with other central banks in the region also tightening policy, most Asian currencies may rise in sync. And that, experts said, will protect Singapore's export competitiveness.
David Cohen, director of Asian economic forecasting at Action Economics, said: "They are always going to be nervous about a potential loss of competitiveness, but as long as China continues to allow some appreciation, the others would not feel quite so vulnerable, and at the same time, as long as the growth continues strong, maybe they will feel a little more willing to tolerate appreciation."
Economists said Singapore's non-oil domestic exports will record a healthy 12 per cent growth this year. While that is half of last year's growth, the export performance will still be in line with global economic expansion, which is threatened by sovereign debt worries in Europe, uncertain recovery in the US and tensions in the Middle East.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Pay more due to higher fuel surcharge
Passengers to pay more due to higher fuel surcharge
Passengers will have to pay more this year as various airlines increase their fuel surcharge.
Earlier this month, both Qantas and British Airways raised their fuel levy, while Singapore Airlines (SIA) has increased its surcharge twice in the last two months.
Analysts said airlines are scampering to cover the cost of rising jet fuel, which has jumped 33 per cent from a year earlier to around US$116 per barrel.
Apart from raising fares, airlines are also taking other steps to protect their margins from being eroded by more expensive fuel.
Vacations and business travel this year will become costlier.
Analysts said airlines are raising prices and surcharges as the aviation industry revives and as jet fuel price soars.
Jet fuel, which is derived from crude oil, has seen its price rise as the current unrest in Egypt stokes fears of disruptions in supply of crude from the Middle East.
Shailaja Nair, managing editor, Platts, said: "The volatility in crude prices will always affect the final prices of jet fuel. The fear was that if the unrest became worst and if the strikes affected labour at the Suez Canal, whether people will be able to come to work and all...so that was the fear that if there was disruption in the Suez Canal, then international crude prices will go up because obviously crude can't move. "
The benchmark North Sea Brent crude oil futures hit a 28-month high of above US$102 early this month. It is a level not seen since the peak of around US$140 before the financial crisis.
To sidestep the volatility in jet fuel prices, most airlines hedge their exposure.
Analysts point out that some airlines like SIA and Southwest have been very successful at this.
SIA said its general policy is to hedge between 20 to 60 per cent of its annual fuel requirement.
According to analysts, another way to save fuel cost, which accounts for about 40 per cent of operating cost, is to fly fuel-efficient aircraft.
Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst at Standard & Poor's, said: "Flying fuel-efficient aircraft does not mean you are going to reduce your cost. It only works if you can fill your fuel-efficient plane with enough passengers to make it economically viable. But at the end of the day, it still its better to fly fuel-efficient aircraft like the A380, the upcoming A350 and 787 Dreamliner, because that would mean at least a 10-15 per cent reduction in your fuel cost. "
Overall, the International Air Transport Association expects jet fuel to cost US$110.5 per barrel, on average, this year.
Meanwhile, it might be cheaper to fly budget airlines, as a particular low-cost airline in Singapore said all its airfares are without surcharge.
Tiger Airways' Singapore Managing Director, Stewart Adams, said that "customers enjoy the lowest fares, and do not pay any fuel surcharge, because we are successfully managing our own costs."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Passengers will have to pay more this year as various airlines increase their fuel surcharge.
Earlier this month, both Qantas and British Airways raised their fuel levy, while Singapore Airlines (SIA) has increased its surcharge twice in the last two months.
Analysts said airlines are scampering to cover the cost of rising jet fuel, which has jumped 33 per cent from a year earlier to around US$116 per barrel.
Apart from raising fares, airlines are also taking other steps to protect their margins from being eroded by more expensive fuel.
Vacations and business travel this year will become costlier.
Analysts said airlines are raising prices and surcharges as the aviation industry revives and as jet fuel price soars.
Jet fuel, which is derived from crude oil, has seen its price rise as the current unrest in Egypt stokes fears of disruptions in supply of crude from the Middle East.
Shailaja Nair, managing editor, Platts, said: "The volatility in crude prices will always affect the final prices of jet fuel. The fear was that if the unrest became worst and if the strikes affected labour at the Suez Canal, whether people will be able to come to work and all...so that was the fear that if there was disruption in the Suez Canal, then international crude prices will go up because obviously crude can't move. "
The benchmark North Sea Brent crude oil futures hit a 28-month high of above US$102 early this month. It is a level not seen since the peak of around US$140 before the financial crisis.
To sidestep the volatility in jet fuel prices, most airlines hedge their exposure.
Analysts point out that some airlines like SIA and Southwest have been very successful at this.
SIA said its general policy is to hedge between 20 to 60 per cent of its annual fuel requirement.
According to analysts, another way to save fuel cost, which accounts for about 40 per cent of operating cost, is to fly fuel-efficient aircraft.
Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst at Standard & Poor's, said: "Flying fuel-efficient aircraft does not mean you are going to reduce your cost. It only works if you can fill your fuel-efficient plane with enough passengers to make it economically viable. But at the end of the day, it still its better to fly fuel-efficient aircraft like the A380, the upcoming A350 and 787 Dreamliner, because that would mean at least a 10-15 per cent reduction in your fuel cost. "
Overall, the International Air Transport Association expects jet fuel to cost US$110.5 per barrel, on average, this year.
Meanwhile, it might be cheaper to fly budget airlines, as a particular low-cost airline in Singapore said all its airfares are without surcharge.
Tiger Airways' Singapore Managing Director, Stewart Adams, said that "customers enjoy the lowest fares, and do not pay any fuel surcharge, because we are successfully managing our own costs."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Chingay Parade kicks off on Friday
Chingay Parade kicks off on Friday
This year's Chingay Parade, which will kick off on Friday, promises to be an international affair.
The overseas performers hail from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and even Germany and Denmark.
On Thursday, they were hard at work practising for the big show.
Some foreign participants are taking part in the parade for the first time.
Danish gymnast, Stefan Graversen, said: "It's our first time in the parade. So we're looking forward to it a lot. We're going to move a mat and then jump on it. And then the girls are.....going to show Danish gymnastics."
Other first-timers in the parade include a Sri Lankan group.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Jayathri Samarakone, said: "When I came to Singapore two years ago, I really thought I should get the Sri Lankan performers to participate in Chingay. And I'm really very honoured and happy today that 40 participants from Sri Lanka are taking part."
The Chingay Parade will be held over two days (11-12 February) at the Pit Building (next to the Singapore Flyer).
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
This year's Chingay Parade, which will kick off on Friday, promises to be an international affair.
The overseas performers hail from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and even Germany and Denmark.
On Thursday, they were hard at work practising for the big show.
Some foreign participants are taking part in the parade for the first time.
Danish gymnast, Stefan Graversen, said: "It's our first time in the parade. So we're looking forward to it a lot. We're going to move a mat and then jump on it. And then the girls are.....going to show Danish gymnastics."
Other first-timers in the parade include a Sri Lankan group.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Jayathri Samarakone, said: "When I came to Singapore two years ago, I really thought I should get the Sri Lankan performers to participate in Chingay. And I'm really very honoured and happy today that 40 participants from Sri Lanka are taking part."
The Chingay Parade will be held over two days (11-12 February) at the Pit Building (next to the Singapore Flyer).
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SMRT raises late-night bus fares to $4
SMRT raises late-night bus fares to $4
Public transport operator SMRT has raised the fare of all seven of its special late-night bus services from $3.50 to $4.
The increase, which took effect last Wednesday, brings the fare on a par with that of six late-night bus services run by the other public- transport operator, SBS Transit.
An SMRT spokesman said: "We have adjusted fares for NightRider services from $3.50 to $4.00 in view of an inflationary and higher operating-cost environment, which includes higher energy prices."
It last raised the fare from $3 to $3.50 on May 16, 2008.
The affected services NR1, NR2, NR3, NR5, NR6, NR7 and NR8 run on Fridays, Saturdays and eves of public holidays from 11.30pm to 4.30am.
They take passengers from downtown to housing estates across the island like Jurong East, Woodlands and Tampines.
THE STRAITS TIMES
Public transport operator SMRT has raised the fare of all seven of its special late-night bus services from $3.50 to $4.
The increase, which took effect last Wednesday, brings the fare on a par with that of six late-night bus services run by the other public- transport operator, SBS Transit.
An SMRT spokesman said: "We have adjusted fares for NightRider services from $3.50 to $4.00 in view of an inflationary and higher operating-cost environment, which includes higher energy prices."
It last raised the fare from $3 to $3.50 on May 16, 2008.
The affected services NR1, NR2, NR3, NR5, NR6, NR7 and NR8 run on Fridays, Saturdays and eves of public holidays from 11.30pm to 4.30am.
They take passengers from downtown to housing estates across the island like Jurong East, Woodlands and Tampines.
THE STRAITS TIMES
Sunday 6 February 2011
KTM restores nearly all train services
KTM restores nearly all S'pore-Malaysia train services
Commuters from Singapore will soon be able to travel by train once more to Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian Railway or KTM said services have almost been restored, after those in the southern and eastern sectors were disrupted by floods on 30 January.
But it did not state the actual date of re-starting the services.
KTM added that for now, three services remain cancelled.
These are between Singapore and the Malaysian towns of Tumpat, Gemas and Kuala Lipis.
However, all other services are operating as per normal.
KTM added delays may be expected as trains will need to slow down in areas where work to repair the damaged tracks has just been completed.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Commuters from Singapore will soon be able to travel by train once more to Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian Railway or KTM said services have almost been restored, after those in the southern and eastern sectors were disrupted by floods on 30 January.
But it did not state the actual date of re-starting the services.
KTM added that for now, three services remain cancelled.
These are between Singapore and the Malaysian towns of Tumpat, Gemas and Kuala Lipis.
However, all other services are operating as per normal.
KTM added delays may be expected as trains will need to slow down in areas where work to repair the damaged tracks has just been completed.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Saturday 5 February 2011
"Huayi" festival kicks off at Esplanade
"Huayi" festival kicks off at Esplanade
The annual Chinese Festival of Arts, "Huayi", has returned to the Esplanade to welcome the Year of the Rabbit.
The 10-day festival kicked off on Friday evening with some free performances.
And it was a rousing start as visitors were treated to a performance by the Wen Yang lion dance troupe.
Others also got a chance to participate in a sing-along session, featuring evergreen Mandarin songs.
Organisers said this year's festival aims to showcase fresh perspectives of the different Chinese art forms - from dance to theatre.
Other highlights include a concert by local songbird Kit Chan, who is returning to the festival after a six-year hiatus.
This year marks the ninth run of the festival.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The annual Chinese Festival of Arts, "Huayi", has returned to the Esplanade to welcome the Year of the Rabbit.
The 10-day festival kicked off on Friday evening with some free performances.
And it was a rousing start as visitors were treated to a performance by the Wen Yang lion dance troupe.
Others also got a chance to participate in a sing-along session, featuring evergreen Mandarin songs.
Organisers said this year's festival aims to showcase fresh perspectives of the different Chinese art forms - from dance to theatre.
Other highlights include a concert by local songbird Kit Chan, who is returning to the festival after a six-year hiatus.
This year marks the ninth run of the festival.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Huge crowds visit Sentosa this Lunar New Year
Huge crowds visit Sentosa this Lunar New Year
This Lunar New Year holidays saw huge crowds pouring into the resort island of Sentosa.
And with the recent opening of the Sentosa Boardwalk that connects to VivoCity mall on January 29, visitors had more ways to get into the island, while soaking up the sights of the Sentosa Flower Festival
With the new access point, the average waiting time for the Sentosa Express train was cut down by half, compared to the same period last year.
But commuters still had to wait some 45 minutes for the train to Sentosa, due to the large crowds.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
This Lunar New Year holidays saw huge crowds pouring into the resort island of Sentosa.
And with the recent opening of the Sentosa Boardwalk that connects to VivoCity mall on January 29, visitors had more ways to get into the island, while soaking up the sights of the Sentosa Flower Festival
With the new access point, the average waiting time for the Sentosa Express train was cut down by half, compared to the same period last year.
But commuters still had to wait some 45 minutes for the train to Sentosa, due to the large crowds.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
River Hongbao attracts 250,000 visitors so far
River Hongbao attracts 250,000 visitors so far
This year's River Hongbao celebrations attracted about a quarter of a million visitors in the first three days since it opened.
Organisers said that despite the wet weather, the crowds have been streaming in.
The event, held in conjunction with the Lunar New Year, features an array of activities, including performances and exhibitions.
Attending the celebrations on Friday night was Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, who also toured the River Hongbao exhibit.
The festivities will go on till February 13.
Meanwhile, stallholders have also benefited from the crowds.
They said that even though sales were initially down by up to 30 per cent due to the wet weather, things are starting to pick up.
Those MediaCorp spoke to said they are hopeful of raking in profits if the weather continues to hold up.
Hot items being snapped up by visitors include souvenirs and foodstuff.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
This year's River Hongbao celebrations attracted about a quarter of a million visitors in the first three days since it opened.
Organisers said that despite the wet weather, the crowds have been streaming in.
The event, held in conjunction with the Lunar New Year, features an array of activities, including performances and exhibitions.
Attending the celebrations on Friday night was Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, who also toured the River Hongbao exhibit.
The festivities will go on till February 13.
Meanwhile, stallholders have also benefited from the crowds.
They said that even though sales were initially down by up to 30 per cent due to the wet weather, things are starting to pick up.
Those MediaCorp spoke to said they are hopeful of raking in profits if the weather continues to hold up.
Hot items being snapped up by visitors include souvenirs and foodstuff.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday 4 February 2011
Rasa Sentosa S$80m makeover
Rasa Sentosa S$80m makeover to boost Sentosa's tourism
Tourism in Sentosa is being given an additional boost with the S$80-million makeover of Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort.
It reopened after a 10-month facelift in January.
The resort, one of 11 hotels on Sentosa, is the only resort in Singapore that has a beach front location.
It undertook the renovation to raise the profile of the island.
Ben Bousnina, GM of Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort, said: "When we knew that the government was really developing and moving the tourism in Singapore and in Sentosa island, then I think it was important for us to bring the standards up and to do a major renovation and build a new destination.
"Fortunately with the arrival of big players like Resorts World and other hotels, everybody is talking about Sentosa island so we are not in a competition."
Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) described the re-opening of Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort as great news for guests exploring new options to stay on the island.
RWS added that with the opening of even more attractions and its wide range of entertainment offerings, Sentosa is now seen as Singapore's premier tourist destination.
Children at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort will have more to cheer with the resort boasting several family-friendly facilities.
This includes a specially customised kids buffet table and a children's clubhouse.
On Shangri-La's move, the Tourism Academy @ Sentosa, said it was a logical step to keep up with the changes on Sentosa.
It added that Singapore could see a record 15 million visitors by 2015, and hotels and resorts have to be ready for such growth.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tourism in Sentosa is being given an additional boost with the S$80-million makeover of Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort.
It reopened after a 10-month facelift in January.
The resort, one of 11 hotels on Sentosa, is the only resort in Singapore that has a beach front location.
It undertook the renovation to raise the profile of the island.
Ben Bousnina, GM of Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort, said: "When we knew that the government was really developing and moving the tourism in Singapore and in Sentosa island, then I think it was important for us to bring the standards up and to do a major renovation and build a new destination.
"Fortunately with the arrival of big players like Resorts World and other hotels, everybody is talking about Sentosa island so we are not in a competition."
Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) described the re-opening of Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort as great news for guests exploring new options to stay on the island.
RWS added that with the opening of even more attractions and its wide range of entertainment offerings, Sentosa is now seen as Singapore's premier tourist destination.
Children at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort will have more to cheer with the resort boasting several family-friendly facilities.
This includes a specially customised kids buffet table and a children's clubhouse.
On Shangri-La's move, the Tourism Academy @ Sentosa, said it was a logical step to keep up with the changes on Sentosa.
It added that Singapore could see a record 15 million visitors by 2015, and hotels and resorts have to be ready for such growth.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Gardens by the Bay moves closer to completion
Gardens by the Bay moves closer to completion date
Singapore's latest national project - Gardens by the Bay - moves closer to its November completion date.
The large-scale green space just minutes from the city centre features 18 giant concrete trees and two special conservatories that showcase plants found outside this region.
Rising nine to 16 storeys above ground, the 18 giant concrete trees - named the "super trees" - are probably a familiar sight to those travelling along the East Coast Parkway.
The tallest tree will also be home to a restaurant, providing a panoramic view of its surroundings.
For a more natural feel, the structure is covered in living matter.
Andy Kwek, Assistant Director (Development), Gardens by the Bay, said: "The super trees are currently 40 per cent completed. We've got all the concrete cores erected and are currently putting in the steel "skins" that give the supertree its form. Thereafter, we will cover the skin with ferns, orchids and flowering climbers."
Construction for the two conservatories are also well underway.
The "Flower Dome", which features plants found in the Mediterranean and semi-arid subtropical regions, is scheduled to be completed by November.
More than 90 per cent of its glass panels have been fitted.
The other conservatory - "Cloud Forest" - which features plants from the Tropical Montane region, will be ready six months later.
Some of the plants that will be housed in the conservatory have already been brought into Singapore.
While the local weather is not conducive for their growth, they can look forward to moving into their special climate-controlled new home in April.
Another feature at the Gardens of the Bays will be the four heritage gardens which will be ready by November.
The gardens showcase the important role of plants in the different cultures of Singapore.
Once the billion-dollar first phase of Gardens by the Bay is completed, visitors can look forward to viewing the various features, as well as a series of horticulture themed events and concerts.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's latest national project - Gardens by the Bay - moves closer to its November completion date.
The large-scale green space just minutes from the city centre features 18 giant concrete trees and two special conservatories that showcase plants found outside this region.
Rising nine to 16 storeys above ground, the 18 giant concrete trees - named the "super trees" - are probably a familiar sight to those travelling along the East Coast Parkway.
The tallest tree will also be home to a restaurant, providing a panoramic view of its surroundings.
For a more natural feel, the structure is covered in living matter.
Andy Kwek, Assistant Director (Development), Gardens by the Bay, said: "The super trees are currently 40 per cent completed. We've got all the concrete cores erected and are currently putting in the steel "skins" that give the supertree its form. Thereafter, we will cover the skin with ferns, orchids and flowering climbers."
Construction for the two conservatories are also well underway.
The "Flower Dome", which features plants found in the Mediterranean and semi-arid subtropical regions, is scheduled to be completed by November.
More than 90 per cent of its glass panels have been fitted.
The other conservatory - "Cloud Forest" - which features plants from the Tropical Montane region, will be ready six months later.
Some of the plants that will be housed in the conservatory have already been brought into Singapore.
While the local weather is not conducive for their growth, they can look forward to moving into their special climate-controlled new home in April.
Another feature at the Gardens of the Bays will be the four heritage gardens which will be ready by November.
The gardens showcase the important role of plants in the different cultures of Singapore.
Once the billion-dollar first phase of Gardens by the Bay is completed, visitors can look forward to viewing the various features, as well as a series of horticulture themed events and concerts.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Happy New Year 新年快乐
在此祝福各位网友
新年快乐
天天好天
年年有余
岁岁平安
事事顺心
Wishing everyone a prosperous new year! Gong xi fa cai!
新年快乐
天天好天
年年有余
岁岁平安
事事顺心
Wishing everyone a prosperous new year! Gong xi fa cai!
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