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Thursday, 31 December 2009
Indoor Segway Circuit
Singapore's only indoor Segway circuit opens at Changi Airport
Segway personal transporters have made their way among the check-in rows of Changi Airport's Terminal 3, establishing Singapore's only indoor Segway circuit.
The ride was introduced as part of ongoing efforts by Changi to create buzz and excitement for travellers passing through the airport.
Three rounds on the circuit cost S$10. But airport visitors need to pay only S$5 for two rounds, for every S$20 spent at Changi in a single receipt.
Visitors and travellers have only until February to zip around these futuristic-looking two-wheelers.
Segway personal transporters are already available at Sentosa.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Segway personal transporters have made their way among the check-in rows of Changi Airport's Terminal 3, establishing Singapore's only indoor Segway circuit.
The ride was introduced as part of ongoing efforts by Changi to create buzz and excitement for travellers passing through the airport.
Three rounds on the circuit cost S$10. But airport visitors need to pay only S$5 for two rounds, for every S$20 spent at Changi in a single receipt.
Visitors and travellers have only until February to zip around these futuristic-looking two-wheelers.
Segway personal transporters are already available at Sentosa.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
New Year's Eve 2009
Nightclubs, eateries plan bigger parties & more unique setups for NYE
Nightclubs and eateries are pulling out all the stops to prepare for New Year's eve celebrations and they're hoping the unique setups and bigger parties will help chase away the recession gloom of 2009.
Come December 31, nightclubs in Singapore want customers to party like it's already 2010.
Bernard Lim, chief executive officer, LifeBrandz, said: "Traditionally, we always put in a big effort for New Year's Eve. After all it is clearly the biggest night for all of us."
Tay Eu-Yen, executive chairman, The Butter Factory, said: "What we used to spend in terms of New Year's Eve itself - decor and party packs and all that, they have doubled or tripled in numbers."
Other clubs said their private rooms are also fully booked.
Checks with several restaurants showed many are having special menus and extra tables to deal with the expected surge in patrons.
While eateries and clubs are spending more on preparations for the New Year, they said they're looking at the extra costs as an investment aimed at drawing in more customers in the coming year.
But even with the plethora of parties, some are opting for a more intimate setting.
Said one man in the street: "I'll be meeting a couple of friends this weekend but that's about it."
Singaporeans will also be able to party the night away by tuning in to MediaCorp's Celebrate 2010 @ Marina Bay.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Nightclubs and eateries are pulling out all the stops to prepare for New Year's eve celebrations and they're hoping the unique setups and bigger parties will help chase away the recession gloom of 2009.
Come December 31, nightclubs in Singapore want customers to party like it's already 2010.
Bernard Lim, chief executive officer, LifeBrandz, said: "Traditionally, we always put in a big effort for New Year's Eve. After all it is clearly the biggest night for all of us."
Tay Eu-Yen, executive chairman, The Butter Factory, said: "What we used to spend in terms of New Year's Eve itself - decor and party packs and all that, they have doubled or tripled in numbers."
Other clubs said their private rooms are also fully booked.
Checks with several restaurants showed many are having special menus and extra tables to deal with the expected surge in patrons.
While eateries and clubs are spending more on preparations for the New Year, they said they're looking at the extra costs as an investment aimed at drawing in more customers in the coming year.
But even with the plethora of parties, some are opting for a more intimate setting.
Said one man in the street: "I'll be meeting a couple of friends this weekend but that's about it."
Singaporeans will also be able to party the night away by tuning in to MediaCorp's Celebrate 2010 @ Marina Bay.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
Nov visitor arrivals continue upward trend
Singapore's November visitor arrivals continue upward trend
Tourism figures continued its upward trend with visitor arrivals to Singapore registering the highest growth for the year at 8.4 per cent in November.
Singapore greeted 830,000 visitors last month - mostly from Indonesia, China and Malaysia.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said the number of days tourists stayed in the country also saw its first year-on-year growth of 0.7 per cent, reaching an estimated 3.1 million days.
Average occupancy rate for the hotel industry in November was also positive at about 84 per cent, marking a 3.8 percentage point increase from the same period last year.
However, average room rate registered a decline of 15.1 per cent to S$198 last month, compared to the same period in 2008.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tourism figures continued its upward trend with visitor arrivals to Singapore registering the highest growth for the year at 8.4 per cent in November.
Singapore greeted 830,000 visitors last month - mostly from Indonesia, China and Malaysia.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said the number of days tourists stayed in the country also saw its first year-on-year growth of 0.7 per cent, reaching an estimated 3.1 million days.
Average occupancy rate for the hotel industry in November was also positive at about 84 per cent, marking a 3.8 percentage point increase from the same period last year.
However, average room rate registered a decline of 15.1 per cent to S$198 last month, compared to the same period in 2008.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday, 28 December 2009
Tourist attractions gear up for 2010
Tourist attractions in Singapore gearing up for 2010
Tourist attractions in Singapore are pulling out all the stops to draw in visitors this festive season.
And they are not stopping there. Many of them said visitors can expect more promotions and events in 2010. For example, visitors can feed flamingos at the Jurong Bird Park, as part of the attraction's Latin Fiesta-themed year-end celebrations.
Its sister attractions, the Night Safari and the Singapore Zoo, are also planning similar activities, including appearances by Wild Tarzan Santa and an elephant showcase.
Meanwhile, Sentosa is hosting a range of family-friendly activities, including sand sculpting, playing of percussions and puppet storytelling. And they are not the only ones hoping to cash in on the tourist dollar this festive period.
Others are hoping the opening of the two integrated resorts will help boost business by helping to attract tourists here.
Between April and November 2009, Sentosa saw an increase in visitorship as compared to the same period last year. And it expects visitorship to the island to more than double to 15 million to 20 million over the next few years when Resorts World opens.
While some operators remain unsure about what the year ahead will bring, most are already gearing up for 2010, with new packages, promotions and new attractions ready to draw in the tourists.
Noel Hawkes, vice president, Resort Operations, Resorts World Sentosa, said: "We are going to open with a bang. It is going to be 20 attractions within Universal Studios, which includes the fabulous duelling roller coaster, the Madagascar, Revenge of the Mummy... Jurassic Park and many, many more.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tourist attractions in Singapore are pulling out all the stops to draw in visitors this festive season.
And they are not stopping there. Many of them said visitors can expect more promotions and events in 2010. For example, visitors can feed flamingos at the Jurong Bird Park, as part of the attraction's Latin Fiesta-themed year-end celebrations.
Its sister attractions, the Night Safari and the Singapore Zoo, are also planning similar activities, including appearances by Wild Tarzan Santa and an elephant showcase.
Meanwhile, Sentosa is hosting a range of family-friendly activities, including sand sculpting, playing of percussions and puppet storytelling. And they are not the only ones hoping to cash in on the tourist dollar this festive period.
Others are hoping the opening of the two integrated resorts will help boost business by helping to attract tourists here.
Between April and November 2009, Sentosa saw an increase in visitorship as compared to the same period last year. And it expects visitorship to the island to more than double to 15 million to 20 million over the next few years when Resorts World opens.
While some operators remain unsure about what the year ahead will bring, most are already gearing up for 2010, with new packages, promotions and new attractions ready to draw in the tourists.
Noel Hawkes, vice president, Resort Operations, Resorts World Sentosa, said: "We are going to open with a bang. It is going to be 20 attractions within Universal Studios, which includes the fabulous duelling roller coaster, the Madagascar, Revenge of the Mummy... Jurassic Park and many, many more.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
New Year's Eve party
New Year's Eve party to be held at Labrador Park
With just about a week left to the end of the year, planning for New Year's Eve parties has shifted into high gear.
People will be celebrating not just in downtown Singapore but further in the heartlands as well, where grassroots organisations are planning an all-night event starting from 10pm till 6.30am the next day.
The event is being organised in an effort to get Singaporeans and new citizens to mingle amidst the festivities.
Adding some spice to the night will be EZ50 dance group from China that will come on at about 4am.
The event will be held within the tranquil surroundings of Labrador Park.
Organisers said that they already have about 1,000 people committed to attend the party. But since admission is free, they hope to see up to 10,000 people.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
With just about a week left to the end of the year, planning for New Year's Eve parties has shifted into high gear.
People will be celebrating not just in downtown Singapore but further in the heartlands as well, where grassroots organisations are planning an all-night event starting from 10pm till 6.30am the next day.
The event is being organised in an effort to get Singaporeans and new citizens to mingle amidst the festivities.
Adding some spice to the night will be EZ50 dance group from China that will come on at about 4am.
The event will be held within the tranquil surroundings of Labrador Park.
Organisers said that they already have about 1,000 people committed to attend the party. But since admission is free, they hope to see up to 10,000 people.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Integrated Resorts outlook in 2010
Integrated Resorts in Singapore upbeat about outlook in 2010
Three years in the making and Singapore's two integrated resorts will finally open soon and the operators are upbeat about the prospects.
Resorts World Sentosa, due to open in a matter of weeks, expects to attract 13 million visitors in the first year alone.
The resort said it has been receiving thousands of enquiries from the public everyday. And one of the most talked about attractions is Universal Studios. The theme park is expected to attract some 30,000 visitors each day.
Visitors will encounter ferocious dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies and if that is not thrilling enough, a pair of duelling roller coasters should do the trick.
Resorts World Sentosa said with 60 F&B outlets, six hotels and retail options, there will be no lack of things to see and do.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Three years in the making and Singapore's two integrated resorts will finally open soon and the operators are upbeat about the prospects.
Resorts World Sentosa, due to open in a matter of weeks, expects to attract 13 million visitors in the first year alone.
The resort said it has been receiving thousands of enquiries from the public everyday. And one of the most talked about attractions is Universal Studios. The theme park is expected to attract some 30,000 visitors each day.
Visitors will encounter ferocious dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies and if that is not thrilling enough, a pair of duelling roller coasters should do the trick.
Resorts World Sentosa said with 60 F&B outlets, six hotels and retail options, there will be no lack of things to see and do.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Gears up for Youth Olympic Games
Singapore gears up for 2010 Youth Olympic Games
In 2008, Singapore sports made news globally, by staging the world's first Formula One night race and winning the country's first Olympic medal in almost half a century.
Moreover, in 2009, Singapore made sports history hosting the inaugural Asian Youth Games. Competitively, Singapore did well - collecting 30 medals, 9 of which were gold. And swimmer Quah Ting Wen bagged the title of Most Valuable Female athlete of the Games.
A test run for the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, Singapore was also given the thumbs up for organising a great event.
For the YOG, a count-down clock was unveiled at City Hall, and more may be seen around the island.
"We believe that the presence of the countdown clock is important all over the city, so we are thinking of plans to do that - whether that is a possibility to make countdown clocks to be visible across different parts of the city," said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development, Youth and Sports, Teo Ser Luck.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
In 2008, Singapore sports made news globally, by staging the world's first Formula One night race and winning the country's first Olympic medal in almost half a century.
Moreover, in 2009, Singapore made sports history hosting the inaugural Asian Youth Games. Competitively, Singapore did well - collecting 30 medals, 9 of which were gold. And swimmer Quah Ting Wen bagged the title of Most Valuable Female athlete of the Games.
A test run for the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, Singapore was also given the thumbs up for organising a great event.
For the YOG, a count-down clock was unveiled at City Hall, and more may be seen around the island.
"We believe that the presence of the countdown clock is important all over the city, so we are thinking of plans to do that - whether that is a possibility to make countdown clocks to be visible across different parts of the city," said Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development, Youth and Sports, Teo Ser Luck.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Demand for air travel picks up
Demand for air travel picks up, accompanied by rise in ticket prices
Demand for air travel has been picking up in recent weeks especially during this year-end festive period. But that means, unfortunately for travellers, so have air ticket prices.
In July, an air ticket to Europe that usually costs between S$1,200 and S$1,500, plunged to as low as S$600 to S$900 in some cases as carriers slashed fares to stimulate demand.
The recent economic recovery has seen prices, especially for business and economy class tickets, increasing.
Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst, Standard & Poor's, said: "Air fares have gone up in the last few months because of the demand in travelling in both low cost and full service carriers.
"And it will continue to grow in future because of the growing demand for economy (fares), which has gone up 10 to 15 per cent from middle of the year."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Demand for air travel has been picking up in recent weeks especially during this year-end festive period. But that means, unfortunately for travellers, so have air ticket prices.
In July, an air ticket to Europe that usually costs between S$1,200 and S$1,500, plunged to as low as S$600 to S$900 in some cases as carriers slashed fares to stimulate demand.
The recent economic recovery has seen prices, especially for business and economy class tickets, increasing.
Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst, Standard & Poor's, said: "Air fares have gone up in the last few months because of the demand in travelling in both low cost and full service carriers.
"And it will continue to grow in future because of the growing demand for economy (fares), which has gone up 10 to 15 per cent from middle of the year."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
50% off at post-Christmas sales
Orchard Road shops offering up to 50% off at post-Christmas sales
Christmas may be over but cash registers are still ringing in the dollars.
Bargain hunters were out in full force on Saturday as the annual post-Christmas sales got underway. And with some stores slashing prices by almost 50 per cent, it is no wonder even tourists have their eyes on the best buys.
On the day after Christmas, crowds streamed into Orchard Road and some Singaporeans said they are planning to take full advantage of the post-Christmas sales. Even the rain was not enough to dampen their enthusiasm.
A quick check along the Orchard Road shopping belt revealed many shops offering discounts - with products like shoes, books and toiletries going for up to 50 per cent off their regular prices.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Christmas may be over but cash registers are still ringing in the dollars.
Bargain hunters were out in full force on Saturday as the annual post-Christmas sales got underway. And with some stores slashing prices by almost 50 per cent, it is no wonder even tourists have their eyes on the best buys.
On the day after Christmas, crowds streamed into Orchard Road and some Singaporeans said they are planning to take full advantage of the post-Christmas sales. Even the rain was not enough to dampen their enthusiasm.
A quick check along the Orchard Road shopping belt revealed many shops offering discounts - with products like shoes, books and toiletries going for up to 50 per cent off their regular prices.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SIA step up security checks
Changi Airport, SIA step up security checks
Passengers flying to the US from Singapore can now expect stricter security checks, including body searches.
These are among the global stepped-up measures requested by US authorities, following a foiled bomb attack over Detroit on Christmas Day.
Singapore Airlines operates 35 flights to the United States every week.
And on Friday, security measures on-board were tightened to include - among other rules - requiring passengers to be seated during the final hour of the flight.
In-flight entertainment systems will also be shut off then, and blankets will have to be removed.
And like Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific and South Korea's Korean Air, the use of cabin phones will also be restricted.
But once travellers arrive in the US, they can also expect more security checks.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
Passengers flying to the US from Singapore can now expect stricter security checks, including body searches.
These are among the global stepped-up measures requested by US authorities, following a foiled bomb attack over Detroit on Christmas Day.
Singapore Airlines operates 35 flights to the United States every week.
And on Friday, security measures on-board were tightened to include - among other rules - requiring passengers to be seated during the final hour of the flight.
In-flight entertainment systems will also be shut off then, and blankets will have to be removed.
And like Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific and South Korea's Korean Air, the use of cabin phones will also be restricted.
But once travellers arrive in the US, they can also expect more security checks.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
Friday, 18 December 2009
Riding the movies
Experience big screen action when Universal Studios Singapore at Resort World Sentosa opens in late December
RESORTS World Sentosa promises a unique way to be in the movies when it officially opens in the first quarter of 2010. For parked inside this massive 49 hectares of fun and entertainment on Singapore’s Sentosa Island (some one-tenth of the whole island) is the 20 hectares Universal Studios Singapore.
Within this are seven theme zones with 24 attractions – 18 of which are Universal Studios’ firsts (either new or specifically designed for this venue).
Among them is the world’s tallest pair of duelling roller-coasters – the Battlestar Galactica (Cyclon versus Human) – with one side seated and the other suspended as the two coasters propel thrill-seekers on a nail-biting 87-second-long ride along a 992-metre-long track that goes up to 42 metres in height!
Other attractionss include the world’s first Transformers attraction (opening in 2011); Lights! Camera! Action! hosted by award-winning director Steven Spielberg; Accelerator, an ‘inter-galactic’ whirling-twirling ride; Treasure Hunters; Dino Soarin’; Donkey Live; and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure.
Some favourite rides have also been given a new twist such as Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic Park River Rapids and the Waterworld Stunt Show.
Resorts World Gentings, which is developed by Genting Singapore, has invested over US$1 billion on this theme park to ensure that visitors “get the chance to experience and ride the movies”.
“We are very excited to be here in Singapore,” said Douglas Trueblood, Universal Studios Parks & Resorts general manager, sales and marketing.
“One of the mantras of Universal Studios is we give visitors the chance to see the inside and go behind the scenes. We will be bringing in 18 new rides and shows which makes Universal Studios Singapore truly unique and unlike all the other Universal Studios.”
Universal Studios Hollywood began giving tours of its studio lots way back in the silent movies era. Around 1964, these tours became part of the company’s money-spinning ventures with tours added of the stars’ dressing rooms, actual production sets and staged events.
Over the years, attractions such as hi-tech rides, stunt shows and staged shows have helped turn the tours into a theme park visit.
Since then, Universal Studios Hollywood has opened four other parks - two in Orlando, Florida; one in Osaka; and now, in Sentosa island, Singapore.
For more, log on to www.rwsentosa.com
News courtesy of The Sun Daily, Malaysia
http://www.thesundaily.com/article.cfm?id=39741
RESORTS World Sentosa promises a unique way to be in the movies when it officially opens in the first quarter of 2010. For parked inside this massive 49 hectares of fun and entertainment on Singapore’s Sentosa Island (some one-tenth of the whole island) is the 20 hectares Universal Studios Singapore.
Within this are seven theme zones with 24 attractions – 18 of which are Universal Studios’ firsts (either new or specifically designed for this venue).
Among them is the world’s tallest pair of duelling roller-coasters – the Battlestar Galactica (Cyclon versus Human) – with one side seated and the other suspended as the two coasters propel thrill-seekers on a nail-biting 87-second-long ride along a 992-metre-long track that goes up to 42 metres in height!
Other attractionss include the world’s first Transformers attraction (opening in 2011); Lights! Camera! Action! hosted by award-winning director Steven Spielberg; Accelerator, an ‘inter-galactic’ whirling-twirling ride; Treasure Hunters; Dino Soarin’; Donkey Live; and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure.
Some favourite rides have also been given a new twist such as Revenge of the Mummy, Jurassic Park River Rapids and the Waterworld Stunt Show.
Resorts World Gentings, which is developed by Genting Singapore, has invested over US$1 billion on this theme park to ensure that visitors “get the chance to experience and ride the movies”.
“We are very excited to be here in Singapore,” said Douglas Trueblood, Universal Studios Parks & Resorts general manager, sales and marketing.
“One of the mantras of Universal Studios is we give visitors the chance to see the inside and go behind the scenes. We will be bringing in 18 new rides and shows which makes Universal Studios Singapore truly unique and unlike all the other Universal Studios.”
Universal Studios Hollywood began giving tours of its studio lots way back in the silent movies era. Around 1964, these tours became part of the company’s money-spinning ventures with tours added of the stars’ dressing rooms, actual production sets and staged events.
Over the years, attractions such as hi-tech rides, stunt shows and staged shows have helped turn the tours into a theme park visit.
Since then, Universal Studios Hollywood has opened four other parks - two in Orlando, Florida; one in Osaka; and now, in Sentosa island, Singapore.
For more, log on to www.rwsentosa.com
News courtesy of The Sun Daily, Malaysia
http://www.thesundaily.com/article.cfm?id=39741
Heavy rain, strong winds expected
Heavy rain, strong winds expected in Singapore from Dec 18-20
The National Environment Agency's Meteorological Services Division said on Thursday that a monsoon surge is expected to intensify from December 18 to 20.
Moderate to heavy intermittent showers are expected, accompanied by moderate to strong winds.
Coupled with high tides of up to 3 metres, this could result in flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas of Singapore such as Lorong Buangkok, Jalan Seaview, Meyer Road and Everitt North Road.
In the event of flash floods from heavy storms, the public can call the PUB at 1800-284-6600 for assistance, to report obstructions in drains or to check the flood situation.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com
The National Environment Agency's Meteorological Services Division said on Thursday that a monsoon surge is expected to intensify from December 18 to 20.
Moderate to heavy intermittent showers are expected, accompanied by moderate to strong winds.
Coupled with high tides of up to 3 metres, this could result in flash floods, particularly in low-lying areas of Singapore such as Lorong Buangkok, Jalan Seaview, Meyer Road and Everitt North Road.
In the event of flash floods from heavy storms, the public can call the PUB at 1800-284-6600 for assistance, to report obstructions in drains or to check the flood situation.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
20-litre ruling takes effect now
20-litre ruling takes effect now
THE ban on the sale of petrol and diesel over 20 litres to foreign cars within a radius of 50km from any point of entry into the country will take effect today.
Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the ban, which was aimed at preventing the smuggling of petrol and diesel, would be in place until a new mechanism for the management of oil subsidy is implemented in May next year.
With the ruling, he said, only Singapore-registered vehicles were allowed to leave Malaysia with more than 20 litres in their tanks as the authorities in the republic had already imposed a ruling that all vehicles crossing its borders must have their tanks at least three-quaters full of fuel.
However, he said, if these vehicles needed to refuel within the 50km radius of the Singapore-Malaysia border, they were allowed to buy not more than 20 litres of fuel.
News courtesy of The Star
http://thestar.com.my/
THE ban on the sale of petrol and diesel over 20 litres to foreign cars within a radius of 50km from any point of entry into the country will take effect today.
Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the ban, which was aimed at preventing the smuggling of petrol and diesel, would be in place until a new mechanism for the management of oil subsidy is implemented in May next year.
With the ruling, he said, only Singapore-registered vehicles were allowed to leave Malaysia with more than 20 litres in their tanks as the authorities in the republic had already imposed a ruling that all vehicles crossing its borders must have their tanks at least three-quaters full of fuel.
However, he said, if these vehicles needed to refuel within the 50km radius of the Singapore-Malaysia border, they were allowed to buy not more than 20 litres of fuel.
News courtesy of The Star
http://thestar.com.my/
SIA quits Penang-Singapore route
SIA quits Penang-Singapore route after 30 years
After three decades of serving the Penang-Singapore air route, Singapore Airlines (SIA) has finally called it a day.
SIA decided to terminate its flights between the two islands on Dec 1 with the emergence of several budget airlines on the route.
“The mushrooming of the budget airlines in this region had eroded the traditional airline market, like the Penang-Singapore sector,” an industry insider said.
SilkAir, SIA’s regional wing, has taken over the route. SilkAir now flies three times daily between the two islands.
News courtesy of The Star Online
http://www.thestar.com.my/
After three decades of serving the Penang-Singapore air route, Singapore Airlines (SIA) has finally called it a day.
SIA decided to terminate its flights between the two islands on Dec 1 with the emergence of several budget airlines on the route.
“The mushrooming of the budget airlines in this region had eroded the traditional airline market, like the Penang-Singapore sector,” an industry insider said.
SilkAir, SIA’s regional wing, has taken over the route. SilkAir now flies three times daily between the two islands.
News courtesy of The Star Online
http://www.thestar.com.my/
SIA to fly to Munich from March 28
SIA to fly to Munich from March 28
SINGAPORE : Singapore Airlines (SIA) will fly to Munich, Germany using the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft from March 28 next year.
The five-times-weekly flights will operate the Singapore-Munich-Manchester route, departing Singapore on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Munich will be SIA's second destination in Germany after Frankfurt, which is served with two daily flights, one of which carries on to New York.
The addition of these flights increases SIA's frequency between Singapore and Germany to 19-times weekly.
As a result of the Munich flights, SIA customers travelling between Singapore and Manchester will also enjoy more flight choices, up from the existing three flights a week.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
SINGAPORE : Singapore Airlines (SIA) will fly to Munich, Germany using the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft from March 28 next year.
The five-times-weekly flights will operate the Singapore-Munich-Manchester route, departing Singapore on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Munich will be SIA's second destination in Germany after Frankfurt, which is served with two daily flights, one of which carries on to New York.
The addition of these flights increases SIA's frequency between Singapore and Germany to 19-times weekly.
As a result of the Munich flights, SIA customers travelling between Singapore and Manchester will also enjoy more flight choices, up from the existing three flights a week.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Optimism on tourist arrivals in 2010
STB optimistic that tourist arrivals will be better in 2010
SINGAPORE: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) expects more holiday makers and business travellers to come to Singapore next year.
STB said it is cautiously optimistic that tourist arrivals in 2010 will surpass this year's 9 to 9.5 million visitors.
Among its trump cards will be the two integrated resorts and the Formula One Grand Prix.
High octane events like the F1 race have revved up the tourism scene in Singapore. It has also spiced up the nightlife, with F1 Rocks concerts attracting some 30,000 party goers in September.
In view of the good response, the Singapore Tourism Board aims to do more next year.
The event attracted more than 10,000 participants and saw S$2.2 billion worth of deals sealed this year.
Asia is likely to be where most of the visitors will be coming from. STB said currently, almost all of its top 10 markets are Asian, making up 70 per cent of total arrivals to Singapore.
And what's a visit to Singapore without visiting the two aces in the pack - the integrated resorts? Each attraction is expected to contribute a value add of S$2.7 billion or 0.8 per cent to Singapore's GDP.
With economic recovery underway, their prospects look bright. But some observers said it is too early to tell if they will live up to expectations.
Neo Boon Siong, director, Asia Competitiveness Institute, said: "We have a lot more competition now in Macau and elsewhere. So I think you have some positive effects, but it may take a while for us to learn how to reach those new tourist markets.
"It will not be an immediate big bang, I suspect. There will be incremental activities, but it will be largely an experimental market for the next couple of years."
And Singapore being plugged into the world could be exposed to some downside risks ahead.
Song Seng Wun, regional economist, CIMB-GK Research, said: "It could be US unemployment rising far more sharply then expected. Unemployment rate is already 10 per cent and it could go higher and for longer as well.
Despite the uncertainties, STB is cautiously optimistic about 2010. One key challenge though is manpower training and raising service standards.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com
SINGAPORE: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) expects more holiday makers and business travellers to come to Singapore next year.
STB said it is cautiously optimistic that tourist arrivals in 2010 will surpass this year's 9 to 9.5 million visitors.
Among its trump cards will be the two integrated resorts and the Formula One Grand Prix.
High octane events like the F1 race have revved up the tourism scene in Singapore. It has also spiced up the nightlife, with F1 Rocks concerts attracting some 30,000 party goers in September.
In view of the good response, the Singapore Tourism Board aims to do more next year.
The event attracted more than 10,000 participants and saw S$2.2 billion worth of deals sealed this year.
Asia is likely to be where most of the visitors will be coming from. STB said currently, almost all of its top 10 markets are Asian, making up 70 per cent of total arrivals to Singapore.
And what's a visit to Singapore without visiting the two aces in the pack - the integrated resorts? Each attraction is expected to contribute a value add of S$2.7 billion or 0.8 per cent to Singapore's GDP.
With economic recovery underway, their prospects look bright. But some observers said it is too early to tell if they will live up to expectations.
Neo Boon Siong, director, Asia Competitiveness Institute, said: "We have a lot more competition now in Macau and elsewhere. So I think you have some positive effects, but it may take a while for us to learn how to reach those new tourist markets.
"It will not be an immediate big bang, I suspect. There will be incremental activities, but it will be largely an experimental market for the next couple of years."
And Singapore being plugged into the world could be exposed to some downside risks ahead.
Song Seng Wun, regional economist, CIMB-GK Research, said: "It could be US unemployment rising far more sharply then expected. Unemployment rate is already 10 per cent and it could go higher and for longer as well.
Despite the uncertainties, STB is cautiously optimistic about 2010. One key challenge though is manpower training and raising service standards.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com
Sunday, 13 December 2009
Religious & Cultural Exhibition
China-Singapore Religious & Cultural Exhibition 2009
Theme: Together Towards A Better World - Harmony Friendship & Progress
Date: 16 - 22 Dec 2009
Time: 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
Venue: Convention Hall 603, Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre
Website
http://www.china-singapore2009.com/
Theme: Together Towards A Better World - Harmony Friendship & Progress
Date: 16 - 22 Dec 2009
Time: 10:30 am to 8:30 pm
Venue: Convention Hall 603, Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre
Website
http://www.china-singapore2009.com/
City Square Mall celebrates Xmas
City Square Mall celebrates festive season with eco-friendly Xmas tree
Singapore's first eco-friendly mall is celebrating the festive season with a Christmas tree that is green in more ways than one.
The Christmas tree is made of recyclable metal frames which can be re-used for up to 10 years.
It also uses LED lights which consume less energy, and the lights can be powered by people. The public can peddle the Christmas tree carriage by making a S$5 donation to the Singapore Environment Council.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Singapore's first eco-friendly mall is celebrating the festive season with a Christmas tree that is green in more ways than one.
The Christmas tree is made of recyclable metal frames which can be re-used for up to 10 years.
It also uses LED lights which consume less energy, and the lights can be powered by people. The public can peddle the Christmas tree carriage by making a S$5 donation to the Singapore Environment Council.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Jetstar new route to China
Jetstar to launch direct flights from Singapore to Shantou
Low-cost carrier Jetstar will launch direct flights from Singapore to Shantou, a city located in the Guangdong province of China.
Flights will begin next year in February.
Currently, it takes 10 hours to travel there. The new flight will take less than four hours.
Jetstar will operate the new route three times a week.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
http://www.channelnewsasia.com
Low-cost carrier Jetstar will launch direct flights from Singapore to Shantou, a city located in the Guangdong province of China.
Flights will begin next year in February.
Currently, it takes 10 hours to travel there. The new flight will take less than four hours.
Jetstar will operate the new route three times a week.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
http://www.channelnewsasia.com
Zoukout
Singapore's biggest beach party ZoukOut returns
Singapore's biggest beach party - and possibly the region's too - ZoukOut is back for the ninth year running.
And while many party-goers are in it for the music, organisers have also added new elements, guaranteed to make a wild splash.
Wave House Sentosa is hosting one of the party's many stages.
Revellers also tried their hands at 'surfing the tube' at Siloso Beach's latest lifestyle attraction.
Another new stage features live acts with tunes ranging from Brazilian Samba-Funk to Indie-Alternative.
This year's musical line-up also features the world's number one DJ Armin van Buuren.
The outdoor dance music festival has attracted thousands of revellers annually - many from overseas. And this year it was no different - with nearly 40 percent flying in for the event.
Last year saw some 26,000 party-goers attending the event.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Singapore's biggest beach party - and possibly the region's too - ZoukOut is back for the ninth year running.
And while many party-goers are in it for the music, organisers have also added new elements, guaranteed to make a wild splash.
Wave House Sentosa is hosting one of the party's many stages.
Revellers also tried their hands at 'surfing the tube' at Siloso Beach's latest lifestyle attraction.
Another new stage features live acts with tunes ranging from Brazilian Samba-Funk to Indie-Alternative.
This year's musical line-up also features the world's number one DJ Armin van Buuren.
The outdoor dance music festival has attracted thousands of revellers annually - many from overseas. And this year it was no different - with nearly 40 percent flying in for the event.
Last year saw some 26,000 party-goers attending the event.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Thursday, 10 December 2009
Foreign cars fuel limit
Foreign cars limited to 20 litres of fuel to curb smuggling
Foreign-registered vehicles will only be allowed to pump a maximum of 20 litres of fuel when travelling within a 50km radius from the border, said Domestic Trade, Co-operative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
Enforcement authorities at the checkpoints were also directed to ensure such vehicles leave the country with no more than 20 litres of fuel in the tank, he said.
Ismail added that the directive would be implemented soon.
Ministry officers were in the midst of issuing a circular on the matter to petrol stations in the affected areas in Kedah, Kelantan, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak, he said.
“This measure is to curb the increasing cases of fuel smuggling, as the prices for fuel are subsidised and cheaper in Malaysia compared to those prices set by neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia,” he said.
Ismail said for RON 95, it was sold at RM1.80 a litre in the country compared to RM4.01 in Thailand, RM4.31 in Singapore, RM2.26 in Indonesia and RM5.42 in the Philippines.
“It is unfair if foreigners get to enjoy the fuel subsidy provided by the Government,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby here yesterday.
He said the decision to limit the sale was made under the Control of Supplies (Prohibition of Export) 2000 Regulation.
Ismail warned that petrol station operators caught selling fuel exceeding 20 litres to foreigners risk facing action from the ministry, such as having their licences withdrawn.
In May 2008, the then Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad had barred petrol stations located in border states like Johor and Perlis from selling petrol and diesel to foreign-registered cars.
However, this ban was subsequently rescinded following complaints.
-News courtesy of The Star Online-
Foreign-registered vehicles will only be allowed to pump a maximum of 20 litres of fuel when travelling within a 50km radius from the border, said Domestic Trade, Co-operative and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
Enforcement authorities at the checkpoints were also directed to ensure such vehicles leave the country with no more than 20 litres of fuel in the tank, he said.
Ismail added that the directive would be implemented soon.
Ministry officers were in the midst of issuing a circular on the matter to petrol stations in the affected areas in Kedah, Kelantan, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak, he said.
“This measure is to curb the increasing cases of fuel smuggling, as the prices for fuel are subsidised and cheaper in Malaysia compared to those prices set by neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia,” he said.
Ismail said for RON 95, it was sold at RM1.80 a litre in the country compared to RM4.01 in Thailand, RM4.31 in Singapore, RM2.26 in Indonesia and RM5.42 in the Philippines.
“It is unfair if foreigners get to enjoy the fuel subsidy provided by the Government,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby here yesterday.
He said the decision to limit the sale was made under the Control of Supplies (Prohibition of Export) 2000 Regulation.
Ismail warned that petrol station operators caught selling fuel exceeding 20 litres to foreigners risk facing action from the ministry, such as having their licences withdrawn.
In May 2008, the then Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad had barred petrol stations located in border states like Johor and Perlis from selling petrol and diesel to foreign-registered cars.
However, this ban was subsequently rescinded following complaints.
-News courtesy of The Star Online-
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
Pig's Organ Soup
Pig's Organ Soup
(Non Halal)
Cheng Mun Chee Kee's (正文志记猪杂汤)
Jalan Besar, near corner of Beatty Lane and Foch Rd
$4.00 (Soup with rice)
Business hours 9am－5am (Closed on every Monday)
(Non Halal)
Cheng Mun Chee Kee's (正文志记猪杂汤)
Jalan Besar, near corner of Beatty Lane and Foch Rd
$4.00 (Soup with rice)
Business hours 9am－5am (Closed on every Monday)
Merlion
Malay: Singa-Laut; is an imaginary creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. Its name combines "mer" meaning the sea and "lion". The fish body comes from Singapore's ancient name back when it was a fishing village — Temasek — meaning "sea town" in Javanese. The lion head represents Singapore's original name — Singapura — meaning "lion city" or "kota singa" .The symbol was designed by Mr Fraser Brunner, a member of the Souvenir Committee and curator of the Van Kleef Aquarium, for the logo of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in use from 26 March 1964 to 1997. The Merlion continues to be its trademark symbol since 20 July 1966. Although the STB changed their logo in 1997, the STB Act continues to protect the Merlion symbol. Approval must be received from STB before it can be used. The Merlion appears frequently in STB-approved souvenirs.
Original statue
On 15 September 1972, then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew officiated the installation ceremony of the Merlion statue. The original Merlion statue used to stand at the mouth of the Singapore River, at the tip of the current The Fullerton Waterboat House Garden with Anderson Bridge as its background.
It was conceptualised by the vice-chancellor of the University of Singapore (now known as National University of Singapore) then, Kwan Sai Kheong. Made from November 1971 to August 1972 by the late Singapore craftsman, Mr Lim Nang Seng, it measures 8.6 metres high and weighs 40 tonnes. Its body is made of cement, skin from porcelain plates and eyes from small red teacups. The project cost about S$165,000.
The statue spouts water out of its mouth into the river in a smooth arc until its water pump malfunction in 1998.
Relocation of original statue
The completion of the Esplanade Bridge, in 1997, blocked the views of the Merlion from the Marina Bay waterfront. By then, the original Merlion location was also no longer the entrance of Singapore River. So, in 2002, the statue and its cub were relocated 120 metres to the current Merlion Park that fronts Marina Bay where it stands on a newly-reclaimed promontory in front of The Fullerton Hotel.
Maintenance of original statue
From 5 June till 10 July 2006, the Merlion at Merlion Park underwent maintenance. The last one was right after its relocation. Dirt and stains were removed using high-pressure water streams, and various wear and tear of the statue was mended.
Other Merlion statues
Due to the influence of overseas Singaporeans, Singapore investors and friends of the country, variations of the Merlion statue can be found in Japan and China.
Merlion damage by lightning
On Saturday, February 28, 2009 at about 4.26 pm the Merlion in the Merlion Park was struck by lightning. A breaking news from 938LIVE local radio showed an image with fragments from the Merlion's head on the ground. Examination of the damage was done quickly with wooden scaffolding set up on Sunday, March 1, 2009 for workers to take a closer look at the hole. The incident happened as a result of the lack of lightning protection on the Merlion itself.
~Information courtesy of wikipedia~
Monday, 7 December 2009
Media (Television)
Television wise, Mediacorp monopolised the free-to-air broadcasting industry of Singapore. Mediacorp TV owns 7 free-to-air television channels.
Channel 5
Channel Newsasia
Okto
Channel 8 (Mandarin)
Channel U (Mandarin)
Suria (Malay)
Vasantham (Tamil and other Indian languages)
Mediacorp TV's website
http://www.mediacorptv.com/
Television channels of neighbouring Malaysia
TV1, TV2, TV3, ntv7, 8TV, TV9
Television channels of neighbouring Indonesia
RCTI, SCTV, Global TV, Metro TV, TPI, TVRI, Trans TV, antv, Batam Televisi, Indosiar
Pay-to-view television
There are two pay-to-view cable televsion operators in Singapore. Namely Starhub and Singtel mio tv. The following channels are available through these two operators.
CNN
BBC
CNBC
Fox News
Sky News
Bloomberg
NHK World Premium
NHK World
KBS World
Star World
Star Movies
Star Sports
ESPN
Supersports
HBO
Star Movies
Cinemax
Cartoon Network
BBC Entertainment
BBC Knowledge
Phoenix Chinese Channel
Nat Geo Adventure
National Geographic Channel
Discovery Channel
Discovery Travel and Living Channel
Discovery Turbo Channel
Discovery Home and Health Channel
History Channel
Star Plus (Hindi)
Star Gold (Hindi)
Zee TV (Hindi)
Zee Movies (Hindi)
Colors (Hindi)
Star Vijay (Tamil)
Sun TV (Tamil)
Vannathirai (Tamil)
Asianet (Malayalam)
Channel i (Bengali)
Starhub http://www.starhub.com/tv.html
Singtel mio tv http://mio.singtel.com/miotv/
Channel 5
Channel Newsasia
Okto
Channel 8 (Mandarin)
Channel U (Mandarin)
Suria (Malay)
Vasantham (Tamil and other Indian languages)
Mediacorp TV's website
http://www.mediacorptv.com/
Television channels of neighbouring Malaysia
TV1, TV2, TV3, ntv7, 8TV, TV9
Television channels of neighbouring Indonesia
RCTI, SCTV, Global TV, Metro TV, TPI, TVRI, Trans TV, antv, Batam Televisi, Indosiar
Pay-to-view television
There are two pay-to-view cable televsion operators in Singapore. Namely Starhub and Singtel mio tv. The following channels are available through these two operators.
CNN
BBC
CNBC
Fox News
Sky News
Bloomberg
NHK World Premium
NHK World
KBS World
Star World
Star Movies
Star Sports
ESPN
Supersports
HBO
Star Movies
Cinemax
Cartoon Network
BBC Entertainment
BBC Knowledge
Phoenix Chinese Channel
Nat Geo Adventure
National Geographic Channel
Discovery Channel
Discovery Travel and Living Channel
Discovery Turbo Channel
Discovery Home and Health Channel
History Channel
Star Plus (Hindi)
Star Gold (Hindi)
Zee TV (Hindi)
Zee Movies (Hindi)
Colors (Hindi)
Star Vijay (Tamil)
Sun TV (Tamil)
Vannathirai (Tamil)
Asianet (Malayalam)
Channel i (Bengali)
Starhub http://www.starhub.com/tv.html
Singtel mio tv http://mio.singtel.com/miotv/
Media (FM Radio)
Singapore English language radio stations
BBC 88.9 FM
Gold 90.5 FM
Radio913 91.3 FM
Symphony 92.4 FM
News 938 93.8 FM
Class 95 95.0 FM
Power 98 98.0 FM
987 FM 98.7 FM
Lush FM 99.5 FM
Malaysian English language radio stations
Lite FM 94.6
Hitz FM 97.6
Mix FM 99.1
Fly FM 102.5
Traxx FM 102.9
BBC 88.9 FM
Gold 90.5 FM
Radio913 91.3 FM
Symphony 92.4 FM
News 938 93.8 FM
Class 95 95.0 FM
Power 98 98.0 FM
987 FM 98.7 FM
Lush FM 99.5 FM
Malaysian English language radio stations
Lite FM 94.6
Hitz FM 97.6
Mix FM 99.1
Fly FM 102.5
Traxx FM 102.9
BookFest @ Singapore 2009
(Image courtesy of BookFest Singapore)BookFest @ Singapore 2009
Suntec City Hall 401－404
11/12/2009 till 20/12/2009
10am till 10pm
http://www.bookfestsingapore.com/
Saturday, 5 December 2009
Foreign Missions in Johor Bahru
Japan
Consular Office in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Suite 15B, Level 15, Menara Ansar,
Jalan Abdullah Ibrahim / Jalan Trus
80000 Johor bahru, Johor, MALAYSIA
Telephone Number 607 221-7621
Fax Number 607 221-7629
Office Hour 08:30-12:30 14:00-16:30 (MONDAY TO FRIDAY)
Counter Opening Hour 08:30-12:00 13:30-16:00 (MONDAY TO FRIDAY)
Indonesia
Consulate General of Indonesia in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
No. 723, Jln Ayer Molek
80000 Johor Bahru
Phone: 607-2212000 2223396 2229301
Fax: 607-2248309
Email: krijohor@tm.net.my
Czech Republic
Honorary Consulate in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Hotel Selesa, Business Centre, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir / Jalan Tebrau, Johor Bahru
PO Box 293 83000 Johor Bahru
Phone: 607 2513999
Fax: 607 3321999
Email: johorbahru@honorary.mzv.cz,ivo@mihrconsult.com
Consular Office in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Suite 15B, Level 15, Menara Ansar,
Jalan Abdullah Ibrahim / Jalan Trus
80000 Johor bahru, Johor, MALAYSIA
Telephone Number 607 221-7621
Fax Number 607 221-7629
Office Hour 08:30-12:30 14:00-16:30 (MONDAY TO FRIDAY)
Counter Opening Hour 08:30-12:00 13:30-16:00 (MONDAY TO FRIDAY)
Indonesia
Consulate General of Indonesia in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
No. 723, Jln Ayer Molek
80000 Johor Bahru
Phone: 607-2212000 2223396 2229301
Fax: 607-2248309
Email: krijohor@tm.net.my
Czech Republic
Honorary Consulate in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Hotel Selesa, Business Centre, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir / Jalan Tebrau, Johor Bahru
PO Box 293 83000 Johor Bahru
Phone: 607 2513999
Fax: 607 3321999
Email: johorbahru@honorary.mzv.cz,ivo@mihrconsult.com
Thursday, 3 December 2009
Addition to Komodo dragon family
Singapore Zoo welcomes first addition to Komodo dragon family in 34 years
Bima, a male komodo dragon and a long-time resident of the Singapore Zoo, has been courting a female komodo dragon named Yoko for one and a half years.
According to the Singapore Zoo, the diminutive female had not been receptive till late 2008.
Bima and Yoko now have a two-week-old baby, who has yet to be named. The baby is the newest addition to the Komodo dragon family at the zoo - the first in 34 years.
The Singapore Zoo is the first zoo in Asia to have bred the reptile out of its native home in Indonesia.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Bima, a male komodo dragon and a long-time resident of the Singapore Zoo, has been courting a female komodo dragon named Yoko for one and a half years.
According to the Singapore Zoo, the diminutive female had not been receptive till late 2008.
Bima and Yoko now have a two-week-old baby, who has yet to be named. The baby is the newest addition to the Komodo dragon family at the zoo - the first in 34 years.
The Singapore Zoo is the first zoo in Asia to have bred the reptile out of its native home in Indonesia.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Google Street View for Singapore
Google Street View launched in Singapore
Google Street View has arrived in Singapore - making it the first in Southeast Asia to have a virtual street guide based on photographs.
Cars fitted with cameras went around Singapore earlier this year to take the shots. The technology by Google allows users to view and navigate 360-degree street-level imagery, including the country's most iconic sights.
Google said that faces and licence plates are blurred out, and one can see what already is visible on public roads.
The web-based application can also be used on mobile phones. Businesses and organisations can add their own listings onto the application for free.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Google Street View has arrived in Singapore - making it the first in Southeast Asia to have a virtual street guide based on photographs.
Cars fitted with cameras went around Singapore earlier this year to take the shots. The technology by Google allows users to view and navigate 360-degree street-level imagery, including the country's most iconic sights.
Google said that faces and licence plates are blurred out, and one can see what already is visible on public roads.
The web-based application can also be used on mobile phones. Businesses and organisations can add their own listings onto the application for free.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Coach to Malaysia during CNY
Coach tickets to Malaysia during Chinese New Year nearly sold out
The prices of coach tickets to Malaysia are going up.
A ticket to Perak now costs an average of S$97 - a four-year high.
Compared to the last Lunar New Year season, the latest price is about 20 per cent higher.
This is the biggest hike after 16 operators and the Express Bus Agencies Association were fined in early November for price fixing.
They were fined a total of S$1.69 million by the Competition Commission of Singapore.
Operators of express coaches say tickets for February 12 - two days before the Lunar New Year - are almost sold out.
But there is a silver lining: they say ticket prices are usually determined by demand, and they expect a drop of 40 to 50 per cent in January, which is usually considered a slow month.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
The prices of coach tickets to Malaysia are going up.
A ticket to Perak now costs an average of S$97 - a four-year high.
Compared to the last Lunar New Year season, the latest price is about 20 per cent higher.
This is the biggest hike after 16 operators and the Express Bus Agencies Association were fined in early November for price fixing.
They were fined a total of S$1.69 million by the Competition Commission of Singapore.
Operators of express coaches say tickets for February 12 - two days before the Lunar New Year - are almost sold out.
But there is a silver lining: they say ticket prices are usually determined by demand, and they expect a drop of 40 to 50 per cent in January, which is usually considered a slow month.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Shuttle service to Sentosa
Shuttle service to Sentosa in the works
Visitors to Sentosa island could soon hop onto coaches from Changi Airport, Orchard Road and Marina areas, to various drop-off points on the island.
The Sentosa Development Corporation has called for a tender for "experienced and established coach operators" to operate a shuttle service network from March 1, as new attractions and Resorts World Sentosa come on board next year.
Slated to open by November next year, the 620-metre long Sentosa Boardwalk - designed to carry 8,000 guests per hour, in each direction - will allow visitors to walk onto the island.
On Tuesday, two new trains were added to the Sentosa Express fleet, raising its total carrying capacity to 4,000 guests per hour, in each direction.
Island entry has also been made easier - guests can now tap their way into Sentosa with their ez-link cards when they connect to the monorail at VivoCity, and skip the step of buying separate admission tickets.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
Visitors to Sentosa island could soon hop onto coaches from Changi Airport, Orchard Road and Marina areas, to various drop-off points on the island.
The Sentosa Development Corporation has called for a tender for "experienced and established coach operators" to operate a shuttle service network from March 1, as new attractions and Resorts World Sentosa come on board next year.
Slated to open by November next year, the 620-metre long Sentosa Boardwalk - designed to carry 8,000 guests per hour, in each direction - will allow visitors to walk onto the island.
On Tuesday, two new trains were added to the Sentosa Express fleet, raising its total carrying capacity to 4,000 guests per hour, in each direction.
Island entry has also been made easier - guests can now tap their way into Sentosa with their ez-link cards when they connect to the monorail at VivoCity, and skip the step of buying separate admission tickets.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/
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