Hop on for trishaw ride with a theme
TOURISTS taking a spin on a trishaw in Singapore will soon get more than just a sightseeing ride.
Come September, the itinerary for trishaw rides will be revamped to include food-themed tours, which will feature samplings of Singaporean cuisine recommended by a panel of industry experts, which includes celebrity chef Violet Oon.
The initiative is spearheaded by Trishaw Uncle, the new management of the Albert Mall Trishaw Park.
One of the rides will start at the park which separates Fu Lu Shou Complex and Block 270, Queen Street and will ply Bugis and Little India. The 30-minute tour is priced at $39 per adult and $29 per child.
The revamped Trishaw Park will have a ticketing kiosk, where visitors can enjoy an introductory video before embarking on a trishaw tour. Trishaw- themed souvenirs will also be available.
The park will also have trishaw-rider-friendly amenities, such as a rest area, where they can take a break between trips.
Before the park opens on Sept 1, the 100 trishaw riders employed by Trishaw Uncle will undergo professional training, to boost their communication skills, service quality and road- safety knowledge.
They will also attend a training module offered by the Workforce Development Agency, which will train them to apply effective communication techniques and adopt good service behaviour.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Tuesday, 27 July 2010
Monday, 26 July 2010
Get out
Get out
Singapore makes a good base for exploring South-East Asia, with nearly all of the region's countries and their main tourist destinations — Bangkok, Phuket, Angkor Wat, Ho Chi Minh City and Bali, just to name a few — under two hours away by plane. In addition, Singapore has direct flights to many of the smaller cities in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
For day or weekend trips from Singapore, the following are popular:
* Batam — The nearest Indonesian island to Singapore, just a short ferry trip away. Mainly industrial and infamous for its vice trade, but has some resorts.
* Bintan — Indonesian island just 90 minutes away by ferry, offering both high-end resorts and the "real Indonesia" experience.
* Johor Bahru — Malaysian city just across the Causeway. Not much to look at, but popular for cheap eats and shopping.
* Kuala Lumpur — Malaysia's vibrant capital. 35 minutes by plane, 4-5 hours by bus or overnight by train.
* Malacca — Once one of the three Straits Settlements, now a sleepy colonial town. 3-4 hours by bus.
* Tioman — The nearest of Malaysia's East Coast paradise islands, reachable by bus & ferry or plane.
For those who can afford more time to travel, here are several destinations popular among Singaporeans:
* Bali — One of Indonesia's biggest tourist draws with its nice beaches and good food. About 2 1/2 hours away by plane.
* Bangkok — Thailand's capital and considered a food,shopping and clubbing paradise by many Singaporeans. It is less then 2 hours flight away, or 2 nights by train, assuming you don't stop off in Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth (for Penang).
* Ipoh — The capital of the Malaysian state of Perak, it is famous among Singaporeans for its food. 7-8 hours away by coach, or 1 hour by turboprop flight.
* Langkawi — An island in the Malaysian state of Kedah, just south of the Thai border, famed for endless beaches. Just over an hour by plane.
* Penang — One of the Straits Settlements, with a rich history and fabulous food. About 12 hours away by coach, or 1 hour if you choose to fly.
-Info courtesy of Wikitravel-
Singapore makes a good base for exploring South-East Asia, with nearly all of the region's countries and their main tourist destinations — Bangkok, Phuket, Angkor Wat, Ho Chi Minh City and Bali, just to name a few — under two hours away by plane. In addition, Singapore has direct flights to many of the smaller cities in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
For day or weekend trips from Singapore, the following are popular:
* Batam — The nearest Indonesian island to Singapore, just a short ferry trip away. Mainly industrial and infamous for its vice trade, but has some resorts.
* Bintan — Indonesian island just 90 minutes away by ferry, offering both high-end resorts and the "real Indonesia" experience.
* Johor Bahru — Malaysian city just across the Causeway. Not much to look at, but popular for cheap eats and shopping.
* Kuala Lumpur — Malaysia's vibrant capital. 35 minutes by plane, 4-5 hours by bus or overnight by train.
* Malacca — Once one of the three Straits Settlements, now a sleepy colonial town. 3-4 hours by bus.
* Tioman — The nearest of Malaysia's East Coast paradise islands, reachable by bus & ferry or plane.
For those who can afford more time to travel, here are several destinations popular among Singaporeans:
* Bali — One of Indonesia's biggest tourist draws with its nice beaches and good food. About 2 1/2 hours away by plane.
* Bangkok — Thailand's capital and considered a food,shopping and clubbing paradise by many Singaporeans. It is less then 2 hours flight away, or 2 nights by train, assuming you don't stop off in Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth (for Penang).
* Ipoh — The capital of the Malaysian state of Perak, it is famous among Singaporeans for its food. 7-8 hours away by coach, or 1 hour by turboprop flight.
* Langkawi — An island in the Malaysian state of Kedah, just south of the Thai border, famed for endless beaches. Just over an hour by plane.
* Penang — One of the Straits Settlements, with a rich history and fabulous food. About 12 hours away by coach, or 1 hour if you choose to fly.
-Info courtesy of Wikitravel-
Reservoirs come alive with new facilities
Reservoirs come alive with new facilities
RESERVOIRS are now more than just popular jogging areas they can also be used for many recreational and educational purposes.
For example, under national water agency PUB's Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters programme, Pandan Reservoir was transformed into a water-sports arena, with new facilities conducive to activities such as fishing and sailing.
The $6.95-million facilities were officially opened yesterday by Senior Minister of State for Education and Trade and Industry S. Iswaran, who is also a Member of Parliament for West Coast GRC.
They include a sailing deck for radio control-and-electric boats, a fishing and viewing deck, a fishing jetty, a carpark and an amenities centre, which will also house offices of the national sports associations for canoeing, sailing and rowing.
The ABC Waters programme, first launched by PUB in 2006, was set up to beautify drains, canals and reservoirs to draw more Singaporeans to lifestyle activities close to the waters.
Of the 20-plus projects for the initial phase, which runs from 2007 to next year, five have been completed. The new facilities at Pandan Reservoir, which took 11/2 years to build, comprise the first of these projects to be completed in western Singapore.
SingaporeSailing president Benedict Tan said that the reservoir is an ideal location for lake sailing, where conditions are less harsh, compared to open- sea sailing.
The former national sailor added: "This place reminds me of the Queen Mary Sailing Club, a prestigious sailing spot in London. I won many awards there, so, when I saw the reservoir, it brought back many fond memories."
-News courtesy of Omy-
RESERVOIRS are now more than just popular jogging areas they can also be used for many recreational and educational purposes.
For example, under national water agency PUB's Active, Beautiful and Clean (ABC) Waters programme, Pandan Reservoir was transformed into a water-sports arena, with new facilities conducive to activities such as fishing and sailing.
The $6.95-million facilities were officially opened yesterday by Senior Minister of State for Education and Trade and Industry S. Iswaran, who is also a Member of Parliament for West Coast GRC.
They include a sailing deck for radio control-and-electric boats, a fishing and viewing deck, a fishing jetty, a carpark and an amenities centre, which will also house offices of the national sports associations for canoeing, sailing and rowing.
The ABC Waters programme, first launched by PUB in 2006, was set up to beautify drains, canals and reservoirs to draw more Singaporeans to lifestyle activities close to the waters.
Of the 20-plus projects for the initial phase, which runs from 2007 to next year, five have been completed. The new facilities at Pandan Reservoir, which took 11/2 years to build, comprise the first of these projects to be completed in western Singapore.
SingaporeSailing president Benedict Tan said that the reservoir is an ideal location for lake sailing, where conditions are less harsh, compared to open- sea sailing.
The former national sailor added: "This place reminds me of the Queen Mary Sailing Club, a prestigious sailing spot in London. I won many awards there, so, when I saw the reservoir, it brought back many fond memories."
-News courtesy of Omy-
Saturday, 24 July 2010
Take a cable-car ride in style
Take a cable-car ride in style
FANCY sipping champagne while taking in a panoramic view of Keppel Harbour and Sentosa, all in the comfort of a crystal-adorned, glass-bottomed cable car with plush leather seats?
Now you can, at a whopping $888 for a round trip. This VIP cabin which carries up to four passengers is decked out with Austrian Swarovski crystals, and boasts ambient lighting and a state-of- the-art sound system.
Half of the proceeds from this cabin will go to a charity that is yet to be decided upon. The special cable car is part of the revamped cable-car system that links Mount Faber to Sentosa.
The renowned attraction, dubbed the Jewel Cable Car ride, reopens today after a 10- month hiatus and a $36-million overhaul. Its completion marks the end of a five-year masterplan by Mount Faber Leisure Group to turn the location into a lifestyle destination.
Ms Susan Teh, the group's chief executive, said: "It's a historic moment for all of us. This unique cabin is something that will differentiate us from the rest of the world as it delivers a dazzling experience for Singaporeans and tourists alike."
Those who prefer a more affordable ride can hop on one of the 67 black-and-chrome regular cabins, each of which holds up to eight people. Previously, each cable car could take only six people at a time.
A one-way journey which takes around 13 minutes at a speed of 3m per second costs $24 for adults, while a return trip is $26. These used to cost $17.90 and $18.90, respectively.
Children aged three to 12 years now pay $14 for a one-way ride and $15 for a round trip, while those aged below three years ride for free.
-News courtesy of Omy-
FANCY sipping champagne while taking in a panoramic view of Keppel Harbour and Sentosa, all in the comfort of a crystal-adorned, glass-bottomed cable car with plush leather seats?
Now you can, at a whopping $888 for a round trip. This VIP cabin which carries up to four passengers is decked out with Austrian Swarovski crystals, and boasts ambient lighting and a state-of- the-art sound system.
Half of the proceeds from this cabin will go to a charity that is yet to be decided upon. The special cable car is part of the revamped cable-car system that links Mount Faber to Sentosa.
The renowned attraction, dubbed the Jewel Cable Car ride, reopens today after a 10- month hiatus and a $36-million overhaul. Its completion marks the end of a five-year masterplan by Mount Faber Leisure Group to turn the location into a lifestyle destination.
Ms Susan Teh, the group's chief executive, said: "It's a historic moment for all of us. This unique cabin is something that will differentiate us from the rest of the world as it delivers a dazzling experience for Singaporeans and tourists alike."
Those who prefer a more affordable ride can hop on one of the 67 black-and-chrome regular cabins, each of which holds up to eight people. Previously, each cable car could take only six people at a time.
A one-way journey which takes around 13 minutes at a speed of 3m per second costs $24 for adults, while a return trip is $26. These used to cost $17.90 and $18.90, respectively.
Children aged three to 12 years now pay $14 for a one-way ride and $15 for a round trip, while those aged below three years ride for free.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Tuesday, 20 July 2010
S'pore Flyer resumes operations after 2-day closure
S'pore Flyer resumes operations after 2-day closure due to air-con glitch
The Singapore Flyer - the world's largest observation wheel - resumed operations at 2pm Tuesday.
The Flyer was closed on Sunday afternoon at 1pm after one of its electrical cables supplying power to the air-conditioning systems was struck by lightning.
Thereafter, the management evacuated the some 200 passengers and stopped the wheel.
The Singapore Flyer says the air-conditioning repair works have now been completed.
It says the Flyer also has a lightning protection system.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Singapore Flyer - the world's largest observation wheel - resumed operations at 2pm Tuesday.
The Flyer was closed on Sunday afternoon at 1pm after one of its electrical cables supplying power to the air-conditioning systems was struck by lightning.
Thereafter, the management evacuated the some 200 passengers and stopped the wheel.
The Singapore Flyer says the air-conditioning repair works have now been completed.
It says the Flyer also has a lightning protection system.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Cable Car rides to re-open to public on July 21
Cable Car rides to re-open to public on July 21
The cable cars between Mount Faber and Sentosa island will return July 21, after S$36 million overhaul.
Mount Faber Leisure Group, which manages the service, hopes to see a 20 per cent increase in ridership - compared with 1.7 million in 2009.
After a nine-month absence, the longtime attraction now sports a fresh new look.
They're now wheelchair-friendly, with an interactive touch-screen.
Eight people can fit into a cabin at once, two more than the previous ones.)
A round-trip between Mount Faber and Sentosa Island costs $26 - about $4 more than a ride on the old cabins.
And they're set to make Sentosa a hotter attraction.
Mike Barclay, CEO, Sentosa Development Corporation, says: "It's a great ride! So I think in itself it's going to attract a lot of people to come back, enjoy Sentosa again and re-acquaint themselves with the Cable Car.
"In terms of overall visitorship, we have always said that we projected, going from about six million a year to somewhere between 15 and 21, 22 million a year. And based on the last two or three months, we've seen something like a three-fold increase in visitorship. So we are in-line with our projections."
The fleet's crown jewel, a special cabin fit for royalty, adorned with crystals and leather chairs, that costs $888.
Mount Faber Leisure Group says half the amount from hiring the special cabin will go to charity.
Susan Teh, CEO, Mount Faber Leisure Group, says: "It's going to be a very luxurious ride, where you're able to actually have, you know, champagne in the cabin and you're able to have even the iPod docker to hear the own music that you would love."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The cable cars between Mount Faber and Sentosa island will return July 21, after S$36 million overhaul.
Mount Faber Leisure Group, which manages the service, hopes to see a 20 per cent increase in ridership - compared with 1.7 million in 2009.
After a nine-month absence, the longtime attraction now sports a fresh new look.
They're now wheelchair-friendly, with an interactive touch-screen.
Eight people can fit into a cabin at once, two more than the previous ones.)
A round-trip between Mount Faber and Sentosa Island costs $26 - about $4 more than a ride on the old cabins.
And they're set to make Sentosa a hotter attraction.
Mike Barclay, CEO, Sentosa Development Corporation, says: "It's a great ride! So I think in itself it's going to attract a lot of people to come back, enjoy Sentosa again and re-acquaint themselves with the Cable Car.
"In terms of overall visitorship, we have always said that we projected, going from about six million a year to somewhere between 15 and 21, 22 million a year. And based on the last two or three months, we've seen something like a three-fold increase in visitorship. So we are in-line with our projections."
The fleet's crown jewel, a special cabin fit for royalty, adorned with crystals and leather chairs, that costs $888.
Mount Faber Leisure Group says half the amount from hiring the special cabin will go to charity.
Susan Teh, CEO, Mount Faber Leisure Group, says: "It's going to be a very luxurious ride, where you're able to actually have, you know, champagne in the cabin and you're able to have even the iPod docker to hear the own music that you would love."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday, 19 July 2010
Marina Bay's latest attractions
Marina Bay's latest attractions
VISITORS can expect to be wowed by a visual feast on display at a new gallery that traces Marina Bay's development, and by a new promenade there. These are the latest attractions of the bay, which Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong hopes will become as symbolic of Singapore as the Bund is of Shanghai.
The Marina Bay City Gallery's centrepiece is an interactive model of Singapore's city centre, including areas like Raffles Place and Marina Bay.
The model, mounted on a glass tabletop measuring 10.4m by 6.5m, is illuminated by a light-emitting diode (LED) screen underneath. Every 20 minutes, the LED screen provides a two-minute visual display that depicts Marina Bay from dawn to nightfall, to a soundtrack of original music and sounds recorded from the bay.
Visitors can use the touch-activated information panels on the tabletop to light up 20 landmarks, like the Singapore Flyer and the Marina Bay Financial Centre. The gallery also has other interactive touch-screens that tell visitors more about the bay.
Eco-friendly features have been incorporated into the gallery, such as solar panels on the roof which along with other solar panels on three new shelters along the bay supply 10 per cent of the power for the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.
Admission is free to the $10-million gallery, located along Marina Boulevard and run by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).
The gallery is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, and is closed on Sundays, Mondays and public holidays. Both the gallery and promenade were opened yesterday by Mr Lee.
The 3.5km promenade includes the waterfronts along the Esplanade, Clifford Pier and a newly developed 1.5km stretch along Marina Boulevard and Marina Bay Sands.
-News courtesy of Omy-
VISITORS can expect to be wowed by a visual feast on display at a new gallery that traces Marina Bay's development, and by a new promenade there. These are the latest attractions of the bay, which Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong hopes will become as symbolic of Singapore as the Bund is of Shanghai.
The Marina Bay City Gallery's centrepiece is an interactive model of Singapore's city centre, including areas like Raffles Place and Marina Bay.
The model, mounted on a glass tabletop measuring 10.4m by 6.5m, is illuminated by a light-emitting diode (LED) screen underneath. Every 20 minutes, the LED screen provides a two-minute visual display that depicts Marina Bay from dawn to nightfall, to a soundtrack of original music and sounds recorded from the bay.
Visitors can use the touch-activated information panels on the tabletop to light up 20 landmarks, like the Singapore Flyer and the Marina Bay Financial Centre. The gallery also has other interactive touch-screens that tell visitors more about the bay.
Eco-friendly features have been incorporated into the gallery, such as solar panels on the roof which along with other solar panels on three new shelters along the bay supply 10 per cent of the power for the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade.
Admission is free to the $10-million gallery, located along Marina Boulevard and run by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA).
The gallery is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays, and is closed on Sundays, Mondays and public holidays. Both the gallery and promenade were opened yesterday by Mr Lee.
The 3.5km promenade includes the waterfronts along the Esplanade, Clifford Pier and a newly developed 1.5km stretch along Marina Boulevard and Marina Bay Sands.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Marina Bay to become the Bund of Shanghai
Marina Bay to define S'pore the way the Bund defines Shanghai
The Marina Bay will be a key platform and catalyst for Singapore's future growth.
Speaking at the official opening of the waterfront promenade at Marina Bay on Sunday, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Marina Bay will boost Singapore's position as a financial hub for Asia.
Mr Lee said the new Marina Bay will define Singapore in the same way the Bund defines Shanghai.
He said: "The private sector has shown its confidence in Marina Bay. Already, it has attracted $20 billion of private sector investments in real estate. And we've got firms, local and international ones from around the world - America, Australia, Europe, the Middle East - they've come, they're optimistic and bullish about the development. In fact, they would like us to develop it further."
Marina Bay is not just for businesses.
With the completion of the 3.5km waterfront promenade, which follows the opening of the Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands integrated resort earlier this year, visitors can now walk around the whole Marina Bay and take in the magnificent views.
Prime Minister Lee said: "I came here one evening a few weeks ago, walked along the helical bridge, walked most of the way around the Bay, and it was full of people - families, children, courting couples, tourists - taking in the sights, enjoying the atmosphere."
With the upcoming Youth Olympic Games and Gardens by the Bay to open soon, Mr Lee said the area promises to be a vibrant destination for all Singaporeans and tourists.
He said the development of Marina Bay mirrors the government's efforts to build best homes for Singaporeans.
And this is possible, as long as the economy prospers and people work together.
Mr Lee also launched the Marina Bay City Gallery.
URA's group director (Urban Planning and Design), Fun Siew Leng, said: "The Marina Bay City Gallery shows the transformation story of Marina Bay - how it's been developed over the last 30 years, from planning to implementation to what you see on site today. It tells the fascinating story of all the different events that happen in this area since the 1800s up to now."
The gallery's centrepiece is a model of the entire Marina Bay area.
Visitors can make the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands integrated resort light up, by just touching the interactive panels.
Admission to the gallery is free.
To celebrate the opening of the waterfront promenade, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has organised a two-day carnival, which started on Saturday.
It expects about 80,000 people to gather at Marina Bay area to enjoy the performances and activities.
Earlier Sunday, Prime Minister Lee flagged off some 20,000 participants for The New Paper Big Walk@Marina Bay at the Singapore Flyer. He then took a walk to the Youth Olympic Park, The Helix and the Mist Walk at the Marina Bay waterfront promenade.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
The Marina Bay will be a key platform and catalyst for Singapore's future growth.
Speaking at the official opening of the waterfront promenade at Marina Bay on Sunday, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Marina Bay will boost Singapore's position as a financial hub for Asia.
Mr Lee said the new Marina Bay will define Singapore in the same way the Bund defines Shanghai.
He said: "The private sector has shown its confidence in Marina Bay. Already, it has attracted $20 billion of private sector investments in real estate. And we've got firms, local and international ones from around the world - America, Australia, Europe, the Middle East - they've come, they're optimistic and bullish about the development. In fact, they would like us to develop it further."
Marina Bay is not just for businesses.
With the completion of the 3.5km waterfront promenade, which follows the opening of the Helix Bridge and Marina Bay Sands integrated resort earlier this year, visitors can now walk around the whole Marina Bay and take in the magnificent views.
Prime Minister Lee said: "I came here one evening a few weeks ago, walked along the helical bridge, walked most of the way around the Bay, and it was full of people - families, children, courting couples, tourists - taking in the sights, enjoying the atmosphere."
With the upcoming Youth Olympic Games and Gardens by the Bay to open soon, Mr Lee said the area promises to be a vibrant destination for all Singaporeans and tourists.
He said the development of Marina Bay mirrors the government's efforts to build best homes for Singaporeans.
And this is possible, as long as the economy prospers and people work together.
Mr Lee also launched the Marina Bay City Gallery.
URA's group director (Urban Planning and Design), Fun Siew Leng, said: "The Marina Bay City Gallery shows the transformation story of Marina Bay - how it's been developed over the last 30 years, from planning to implementation to what you see on site today. It tells the fascinating story of all the different events that happen in this area since the 1800s up to now."
The gallery's centrepiece is a model of the entire Marina Bay area.
Visitors can make the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands integrated resort light up, by just touching the interactive panels.
Admission to the gallery is free.
To celebrate the opening of the waterfront promenade, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has organised a two-day carnival, which started on Saturday.
It expects about 80,000 people to gather at Marina Bay area to enjoy the performances and activities.
Earlier Sunday, Prime Minister Lee flagged off some 20,000 participants for The New Paper Big Walk@Marina Bay at the Singapore Flyer. He then took a walk to the Youth Olympic Park, The Helix and the Mist Walk at the Marina Bay waterfront promenade.
News courtesy of Channel Newsasia
Thursday, 15 July 2010
Night Festival
Night Festival back for 3rd year this Friday & Saturday
The annual Night Festival is back for the third year this Friday and Saturday, and it is set to dazzle the public and turn the Bras Basah precinct into a magical playground.
Visitors can look forward to over 40 performances, including films and roving acts.
There will also be activities - from outdoor performances and graffiti murals to social dancing and even sporting events.
Presented by the National Museum of Singapore, the Night Festival line-up will also feature a mix of international and local acts.
To facilitate the smooth running of the festival, Stamford Road will be closed to traffic on the following days:
1. Thursday, July 15, from 1am to 5am
2. Friday, July 16, from 1am to 5am
3. Friday, July 16, from 9.30pm to 3am (Saturday, July 17)
4. Sunday, July 18, from 12am to 4am
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The annual Night Festival is back for the third year this Friday and Saturday, and it is set to dazzle the public and turn the Bras Basah precinct into a magical playground.
Visitors can look forward to over 40 performances, including films and roving acts.
There will also be activities - from outdoor performances and graffiti murals to social dancing and even sporting events.
Presented by the National Museum of Singapore, the Night Festival line-up will also feature a mix of international and local acts.
To facilitate the smooth running of the festival, Stamford Road will be closed to traffic on the following days:
1. Thursday, July 15, from 1am to 5am
2. Friday, July 16, from 1am to 5am
3. Friday, July 16, from 9.30pm to 3am (Saturday, July 17)
4. Sunday, July 18, from 12am to 4am
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Garden Festival
Singapore Garden Festival charms visitors with garden & floral displays
The Singapore Garden Festival is back for the third time to charm visitors with the works of top designers, as well as garden and floral displays.
President S R Nathan opened the festival, which is being held until July 22 at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre.
On display are some 250,000 tropical and temperate plants, as well as 31 masterpieces by award-winning garden and floral designers from 17 countries - with four winners from Singapore.
The centrepiece is a five-metre tall display called The Man Who Planted Trees.
It is grown and nurtured by hundreds of people from the public - and is the fruit of labour of the community.
The eight-day festival is expected to draw over 300,000 visitors.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Senior Minister of State for National Development, Grace Fu, said: "Community gardening is indeed blossoming as Singapore transforms from a Garden City to a City in a Garden...We need the community to help nurture and grow it."
For the first time in the festival, two Singaporean designers were awarded top honours.
John Tan's garden, "The Tree House - Modern Kampong Lifestyle", was the winner for the Best of Show - Landscape Garden category. His garden depicts a modern kampong house that reflects the lifestyle of the future, but yet retains the old character of wooden houses.
Damian Tang's "The Mysterious Jungle of Pandora" came out tops in the Best of Show - Fantasy Garden category. His garden replicates a rich jungle environment shadowed by underlying tones of danger and the unknown that would captivate and overwhelm the senses.
Jim Fogarty of Australia was named the inaugural recipient of the SGF Horticulture Excellence Award. The award was given in recognition for best plant use and plant quality in his Landscape Garden entitled "Daintree".
Germany's Brigitte Heinrichs took home the Best of Show in Floral Windows to the World category with her work entitled "Design with Nature".
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Singapore Garden Festival is back for the third time to charm visitors with the works of top designers, as well as garden and floral displays.
President S R Nathan opened the festival, which is being held until July 22 at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre.
On display are some 250,000 tropical and temperate plants, as well as 31 masterpieces by award-winning garden and floral designers from 17 countries - with four winners from Singapore.
The centrepiece is a five-metre tall display called The Man Who Planted Trees.
It is grown and nurtured by hundreds of people from the public - and is the fruit of labour of the community.
The eight-day festival is expected to draw over 300,000 visitors.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Senior Minister of State for National Development, Grace Fu, said: "Community gardening is indeed blossoming as Singapore transforms from a Garden City to a City in a Garden...We need the community to help nurture and grow it."
For the first time in the festival, two Singaporean designers were awarded top honours.
John Tan's garden, "The Tree House - Modern Kampong Lifestyle", was the winner for the Best of Show - Landscape Garden category. His garden depicts a modern kampong house that reflects the lifestyle of the future, but yet retains the old character of wooden houses.
Damian Tang's "The Mysterious Jungle of Pandora" came out tops in the Best of Show - Fantasy Garden category. His garden replicates a rich jungle environment shadowed by underlying tones of danger and the unknown that would captivate and overwhelm the senses.
Jim Fogarty of Australia was named the inaugural recipient of the SGF Horticulture Excellence Award. The award was given in recognition for best plant use and plant quality in his Landscape Garden entitled "Daintree".
Germany's Brigitte Heinrichs took home the Best of Show in Floral Windows to the World category with her work entitled "Design with Nature".
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday, 14 July 2010
YOG opening ceremony promises a treat for senses
YOG opening ceremony promises a treat for senses
The inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) opening ceremony next month promises to be a treat for the senses, with fireworks, elaborate costumes and colourful displays.
The ceremony will be held at the Marina Bay floating platform.
The organisers say construction of the stage is nearly complete.
It will be partially filled with more than a hundred tonnes of water for the event to create a "reflecting pool".
Over 100 youths will perform on top of and around the pool.
In addition, close to 40 locally-composed music have also been commissioned for the opening ceremony.
One of them is composed by Geraldine Ho, who was part of the Women's Hockey team that bagged gold for Singapore during the 1993 South East Asian Games.
The 37-year-old composed "For What We Believe", which will be heard at the Youth Olympics Opening Ceremony.
Miss Ho, composer and singer, "For What We Believe", said: "I wrote this as an athlete to other athletes. It will motivate them and that they will feel the song and go through all odds and chase the stars."
Adding colour to music are these locally-designed costumes.
Frederick Lee, costume designer, YOG opening ceremony, said: "The youth, the energy and all that. So sometimes when it comes to design things like that most important is it inspires a global unity and also the national pride."
The YOG will take place from August 14 to 26.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) opening ceremony next month promises to be a treat for the senses, with fireworks, elaborate costumes and colourful displays.
The ceremony will be held at the Marina Bay floating platform.
The organisers say construction of the stage is nearly complete.
It will be partially filled with more than a hundred tonnes of water for the event to create a "reflecting pool".
Over 100 youths will perform on top of and around the pool.
In addition, close to 40 locally-composed music have also been commissioned for the opening ceremony.
One of them is composed by Geraldine Ho, who was part of the Women's Hockey team that bagged gold for Singapore during the 1993 South East Asian Games.
The 37-year-old composed "For What We Believe", which will be heard at the Youth Olympics Opening Ceremony.
Miss Ho, composer and singer, "For What We Believe", said: "I wrote this as an athlete to other athletes. It will motivate them and that they will feel the song and go through all odds and chase the stars."
Adding colour to music are these locally-designed costumes.
Frederick Lee, costume designer, YOG opening ceremony, said: "The youth, the energy and all that. So sometimes when it comes to design things like that most important is it inspires a global unity and also the national pride."
The YOG will take place from August 14 to 26.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday, 12 July 2010
Full electronic toll payment at Lima Kedai
Beginning 10.00 am on 15 July, only electronic toll payment through PLUSMiles card, Touch ‘n Go card or SmartTAG will be accepted at Lima Kedai Toll Plaza on the Secondlink.
Currently, all toll transactions at the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza on the Secondlink and the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Toll Plaza at the Johor Bahru Causeway are conducted electronically.
According to the PLUS Expressways Managing Director, Noorizah Hj Abd Hamid, “This initiative is aimed at ensuring smooth travel and reduce congestion and thus, supporting the Government’s call to preserve the environment as well.”
“As such, all cash transactions at Lima Kedai toll plaza will no longer be available. Electronic toll payments will ensure faster transactions at the toll plazas resulting in more convenience to highway users especially during festive seasons and long holidays.”
PLUS urges those who ply the Secondlink to get their PLUSMiles or Touch’n Go cards from any of the PLUS Customer Service Centres or petrol stations such as Petronas, Shell, Esso, Caltex and BHP in Johor Bahru.
-News courtesy of Plus-
Sunday, 11 July 2010
Tiger Airways passengers lost items in luggage
10 Tiger Airways passengers lost items in luggage
In the past six months, some ten passengers who flew on a particular Tiger Airways flight have filed claims for missing items from their luggage.
They said they discovered this when they arrived at their destination.
Passenger Steven Liang said: "The security lock on my suitcase was missing. I opened my suitcase and saw that it was very messy inside. My brand new iPhone was missing. I bought it in Hong Kong."
Mr Liang said this happened when he flew to Shenzhen, China on Flight TR2952 on May 26.
He said he had asked the airport staff in Shenzhen for help. He was shown a chart containing information on luggage arrivals from international flights.
From the information on the chart, he realised that there had been 10 cases of missing items on this particular flight since December. The highest amount lost was 10,400 renminbi, which is more than S$2,000.
The budget carrier states on its website that it tries to respond to letters within 21 working days.
It lists its hotline and fax numbers as well as mailing address on its website, but does not provide an email address for feedback or complaints.
However, MediaCorp understands that several of the victims who had contacted Tiger Airways still have not heard from the airline.
Tiger Airways told MediaCorp it had received the complaints, but said it was not responsible for the loss of items.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
In the past six months, some ten passengers who flew on a particular Tiger Airways flight have filed claims for missing items from their luggage.
They said they discovered this when they arrived at their destination.
Passenger Steven Liang said: "The security lock on my suitcase was missing. I opened my suitcase and saw that it was very messy inside. My brand new iPhone was missing. I bought it in Hong Kong."
Mr Liang said this happened when he flew to Shenzhen, China on Flight TR2952 on May 26.
He said he had asked the airport staff in Shenzhen for help. He was shown a chart containing information on luggage arrivals from international flights.
From the information on the chart, he realised that there had been 10 cases of missing items on this particular flight since December. The highest amount lost was 10,400 renminbi, which is more than S$2,000.
The budget carrier states on its website that it tries to respond to letters within 21 working days.
It lists its hotline and fax numbers as well as mailing address on its website, but does not provide an email address for feedback or complaints.
However, MediaCorp understands that several of the victims who had contacted Tiger Airways still have not heard from the airline.
Tiger Airways told MediaCorp it had received the complaints, but said it was not responsible for the loss of items.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, 8 July 2010
Tiger launches low-cost priority boarding service
Tiger launches low-cost priority boarding service
Budget carrier Tiger Airways has launched a low-cost priority boarding service called boardmefirst.
Tiger Airways Singapore managing director Rosalynn Tay said this new service will complement other services like allowing passengers to pay in proportion to the weight of check-in luggage and selecting their seats.
These ancillary services have been contributing to Tiger's revenue streams.
Boardmefirst is now available on its international flights and costs S$6 per passenger per flight sector when booked online.
Ms Tay said it is offered so passengers do not have to chalk up expensive miles.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Budget carrier Tiger Airways has launched a low-cost priority boarding service called boardmefirst.
Tiger Airways Singapore managing director Rosalynn Tay said this new service will complement other services like allowing passengers to pay in proportion to the weight of check-in luggage and selecting their seats.
These ancillary services have been contributing to Tiger's revenue streams.
Boardmefirst is now available on its international flights and costs S$6 per passenger per flight sector when booked online.
Ms Tay said it is offered so passengers do not have to chalk up expensive miles.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Fullerton heritage gallery launched
Fullerton heritage gallery launched to promote area's rich history
A gallery has been set up to capture and preserve the rich heritage and history of the Fullerton precinct.
Heritage trails and markers will be introduced to allow the public to better understand and appreciate the history and heritage of the area.
The precinct includes many historic buildings, such as the The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Waterboat House, One Fullerton, Clifford Pier, the recently re-opened Customs House and the new Fullerton Bay Hotel which opened on Thursday.
The buildings in the Marina Bay area have seen dramatic transformations over the years.
From 1928 to 1996, the Fullerton Building housed Singapore's first General Post Office, along with other colonial governmental offices. Today, it is home to The Fullerton Hotel.
Bala Subramanion, Singapore's first local Post Master General, said: "In those days, it was like a stable. But now it looks like a palace, transformed into a palace!"
A walking trail has also been proposed to help visitors appreciate the area's history and heritage.
Acting Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts, Lui Tuck Yew, said: "A lot of the early history of Singapore is centred around the Fullerton Building, around this side of the Bay because all that we see across the Bay never existed until recent years.
"But as we are able now to walk around the entire Bay, we ought to put appropriate markers in place so that we have a better understanding of the development that has taken place over the years."
Mr Lui also launched the Fullerton Heritage Gallery, which aims to bring to life the rich significance of the precinct. Spread out over 800 square feet, the gallery contains photographs, stamps and even a vintage weighing scale.
Mr Lui said preserving and revitalising the precinct is all the more important given the rich social and historical significance of the Fullerton Building.
Over the years, it housed many important arms of the government, such as the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
The precinct, which is supported by the National Heritage Board's Heritage Industry Incentive Programme, saw contributions from individuals and organisations to preserve various aspects of Singapore's heritage.
Mr Lui praised the efforts of the Fullerton Heritage team, some of whom received training on the history of the Fullerton precinct to help them better understand the background of the area.
The precinct launch also saw the return of the Foundation Stone to its original position outside the Fullerton Building.
Part of a proposed monument paying tribute to Singapore's early founders, the stone was erected outside the Fullerton Building in 1970 by Singapore's first President, Yusof Ishak. It was moved to the National Archives of Singapore in 2000 when development works in the area began.
Visitors to the gallery can also look out for eye-catching post boxes at the gallery's entrance.
Once found on the streets of Singapore, the pillar post boxes are now almost impossible to find in this part of the world. The ones at the gallery's entrance had to be specially shipped over from the United Kingdom. And more than just a display, they are actual working post boxes.
There are only three pillar post boxes in Singapore, with the third located in front of the Philatelic Museum.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A gallery has been set up to capture and preserve the rich heritage and history of the Fullerton precinct.
Heritage trails and markers will be introduced to allow the public to better understand and appreciate the history and heritage of the area.
The precinct includes many historic buildings, such as the The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, The Fullerton Waterboat House, One Fullerton, Clifford Pier, the recently re-opened Customs House and the new Fullerton Bay Hotel which opened on Thursday.
The buildings in the Marina Bay area have seen dramatic transformations over the years.
From 1928 to 1996, the Fullerton Building housed Singapore's first General Post Office, along with other colonial governmental offices. Today, it is home to The Fullerton Hotel.
Bala Subramanion, Singapore's first local Post Master General, said: "In those days, it was like a stable. But now it looks like a palace, transformed into a palace!"
A walking trail has also been proposed to help visitors appreciate the area's history and heritage.
Acting Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts, Lui Tuck Yew, said: "A lot of the early history of Singapore is centred around the Fullerton Building, around this side of the Bay because all that we see across the Bay never existed until recent years.
"But as we are able now to walk around the entire Bay, we ought to put appropriate markers in place so that we have a better understanding of the development that has taken place over the years."
Mr Lui also launched the Fullerton Heritage Gallery, which aims to bring to life the rich significance of the precinct. Spread out over 800 square feet, the gallery contains photographs, stamps and even a vintage weighing scale.
Mr Lui said preserving and revitalising the precinct is all the more important given the rich social and historical significance of the Fullerton Building.
Over the years, it housed many important arms of the government, such as the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
The precinct, which is supported by the National Heritage Board's Heritage Industry Incentive Programme, saw contributions from individuals and organisations to preserve various aspects of Singapore's heritage.
Mr Lui praised the efforts of the Fullerton Heritage team, some of whom received training on the history of the Fullerton precinct to help them better understand the background of the area.
The precinct launch also saw the return of the Foundation Stone to its original position outside the Fullerton Building.
Part of a proposed monument paying tribute to Singapore's early founders, the stone was erected outside the Fullerton Building in 1970 by Singapore's first President, Yusof Ishak. It was moved to the National Archives of Singapore in 2000 when development works in the area began.
Visitors to the gallery can also look out for eye-catching post boxes at the gallery's entrance.
Once found on the streets of Singapore, the pillar post boxes are now almost impossible to find in this part of the world. The ones at the gallery's entrance had to be specially shipped over from the United Kingdom. And more than just a display, they are actual working post boxes.
There are only three pillar post boxes in Singapore, with the third located in front of the Philatelic Museum.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tuck into tingkat feast at Singapore Food Fest
Tuck into tingkat feast at Singapore Food Fest
TAKE a relaxing cruise down the Singapore River while enjoying piping hot food with authentic flavours from five Chinese dialect groups from a tingkat (tiffin carrier).
Think Teochew carrot cake, Hainanese chicken-rice balls, fried Hokkien noodles, Cantonese dessert fu chok tong shui (sweet bean-curd skin) and Hakka soon kueh (steamed rice- flour dumplings stuffed with vegetables).
The 45-minute, $35 "tingkat cruise" is part of the Singapore Food Festival, now in its 17th year, which will be held from next Friday to July 25. This year, the theme for the festival is focused on authentic specialities from the Cantonese, Hainanese, Hakka, Hokkien and Teochew communities.
Besides the tingkat cruise, foodies can expect a gastronomical stroll down a food street along Clarke Quay's Read Bridge. Famous restaurants and hawkers, such as Yeh Lai Siang Gourmet, which is famed for its Hainanese chicken-rice balls, will hawk their wares along the food street.
Said Yeh Lai Siang Gourmet owner Tan Hwee, 51: "Many have never tried authentic Hainanese food before. We hope to make use of this opportunity to showcase the real taste and flavours of the Hainanese."
The stalls will be open from 4pm to 11pm daily. The festival will also get chefs skilled in preparing dishes from their dialect groups to conduct culinary master classes for those who are interested in learning how to whip up these morsels.
These classes, which will be held during the festival at various locations, will cost $55 to $208 per participant. To end the festival with a big bang, a buffet-style Heritage Feast will be held on the last night, where customers can dig in to more than 100 dishes from the five Chinese dialect groups. Last year, 354,000 visitors attended the festival. Twenty per cent of the visitors were tourists.
Singapore Tourism Board, which is supporting the event, is confident of achieving a similar response this year, given the programme and the record number of tourists who have arrived here since the two integrated resorts opened, said its director of precinct development, Mr Andrew Phua.
-News courtesy of Omy-
TAKE a relaxing cruise down the Singapore River while enjoying piping hot food with authentic flavours from five Chinese dialect groups from a tingkat (tiffin carrier).
Think Teochew carrot cake, Hainanese chicken-rice balls, fried Hokkien noodles, Cantonese dessert fu chok tong shui (sweet bean-curd skin) and Hakka soon kueh (steamed rice- flour dumplings stuffed with vegetables).
The 45-minute, $35 "tingkat cruise" is part of the Singapore Food Festival, now in its 17th year, which will be held from next Friday to July 25. This year, the theme for the festival is focused on authentic specialities from the Cantonese, Hainanese, Hakka, Hokkien and Teochew communities.
Besides the tingkat cruise, foodies can expect a gastronomical stroll down a food street along Clarke Quay's Read Bridge. Famous restaurants and hawkers, such as Yeh Lai Siang Gourmet, which is famed for its Hainanese chicken-rice balls, will hawk their wares along the food street.
Said Yeh Lai Siang Gourmet owner Tan Hwee, 51: "Many have never tried authentic Hainanese food before. We hope to make use of this opportunity to showcase the real taste and flavours of the Hainanese."
The stalls will be open from 4pm to 11pm daily. The festival will also get chefs skilled in preparing dishes from their dialect groups to conduct culinary master classes for those who are interested in learning how to whip up these morsels.
These classes, which will be held during the festival at various locations, will cost $55 to $208 per participant. To end the festival with a big bang, a buffet-style Heritage Feast will be held on the last night, where customers can dig in to more than 100 dishes from the five Chinese dialect groups. Last year, 354,000 visitors attended the festival. Twenty per cent of the visitors were tourists.
Singapore Tourism Board, which is supporting the event, is confident of achieving a similar response this year, given the programme and the record number of tourists who have arrived here since the two integrated resorts opened, said its director of precinct development, Mr Andrew Phua.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Monday, 5 July 2010
New fare system kicks in
New fare system kicks in, but some commuters have to pay more
A new fare system kicked in on Saturday for those taking buses and trains.
Public transport operators are using a new formula to calculate fares based on the distance travelled.
The transfer penalty has also been removed.
However, some commuters felt they had to pay more for their fares.
One commuter said: "This is more expensive. It charged us more by 20 cents."
Another commented: "It is a bit more expensive only. I still have to take (public transport), what to do?"
A third noted: "For people like me who always like to transfer, it is slightly cheaper, but not much cheaper."
These responses are within the Public Transport Council's expectations. With the new fare system, it expects 60 per cent of commuters to enjoy savings in their weekly fare expenditure.
However, one in three commuters would see a fare increase.
One reason is that they may hardly make any transfers and so they would not benefit from the removal of transfer penalties.
In addition, the temporary three per cent fare rebate offered last year by public transport operators expired on Saturday.
A commuter said: "We have a monthly budget for our travel, so we have to recalculate everything to find out the best route.
"But mostly, I do not think it will affect (me) because when I am going from office or going to office, it is only a straight bus; in the fare stage now, it is like a 2-cent increase."
The Land Transport Authority said the idea is to get everyone to pay the same transport fare for the same distance travelled.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
A new fare system kicked in on Saturday for those taking buses and trains.
Public transport operators are using a new formula to calculate fares based on the distance travelled.
The transfer penalty has also been removed.
However, some commuters felt they had to pay more for their fares.
One commuter said: "This is more expensive. It charged us more by 20 cents."
Another commented: "It is a bit more expensive only. I still have to take (public transport), what to do?"
A third noted: "For people like me who always like to transfer, it is slightly cheaper, but not much cheaper."
These responses are within the Public Transport Council's expectations. With the new fare system, it expects 60 per cent of commuters to enjoy savings in their weekly fare expenditure.
However, one in three commuters would see a fare increase.
One reason is that they may hardly make any transfers and so they would not benefit from the removal of transfer penalties.
In addition, the temporary three per cent fare rebate offered last year by public transport operators expired on Saturday.
A commuter said: "We have a monthly budget for our travel, so we have to recalculate everything to find out the best route.
"But mostly, I do not think it will affect (me) because when I am going from office or going to office, it is only a straight bus; in the fare stage now, it is like a 2-cent increase."
The Land Transport Authority said the idea is to get everyone to pay the same transport fare for the same distance travelled.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday, 4 July 2010
World Cup fever at Changi Airport
World Cup fever at Changi Airport
World Cup fever has hit Changi Airport. All three terminals at the airport have seen passengers glued to the screens to catch the football action before boarding their flights.
Footballs fans can catch the matches at specially designed "mini stadiums" which have 10 TV screens each.
On average, each match attracts some 400 fans, but a few of the games have exceeded the 1,000 mark.
Since the opening match on 11 June, close to 30,000 passengers from all over the world have caught the World Cup action at Changi's transit areas and another 70,000 have watched the delayed telecasts of these matches.
The service is a winner with the international travellers as it allows them to support their teams while on the go, just like a group of German fans who caught the Germany-Argentina quarter-final match on Saturday night.
"We have been starving for information during the flight from Bali and...here...we saw the perfect game," said a German fan.
"It's a fantastic service that the airport provides," said another.
"I did not think that I will be able to to see this game. So I was very happy that I could have a chance to watch it," said a traveller from Scotland.
The FIFA Official Store at Changi has also benefited from the World Cup fever, with sales surging by 50 percent since the start of the competition.
Changi is confident that by the end of the competition, more than 100,000 passengers would have watched football at the airport.
During the 2006 World Cup, passengers were also able to catch the action at Changi Airport.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
World Cup fever has hit Changi Airport. All three terminals at the airport have seen passengers glued to the screens to catch the football action before boarding their flights.
Footballs fans can catch the matches at specially designed "mini stadiums" which have 10 TV screens each.
On average, each match attracts some 400 fans, but a few of the games have exceeded the 1,000 mark.
Since the opening match on 11 June, close to 30,000 passengers from all over the world have caught the World Cup action at Changi's transit areas and another 70,000 have watched the delayed telecasts of these matches.
The service is a winner with the international travellers as it allows them to support their teams while on the go, just like a group of German fans who caught the Germany-Argentina quarter-final match on Saturday night.
"We have been starving for information during the flight from Bali and...here...we saw the perfect game," said a German fan.
"It's a fantastic service that the airport provides," said another.
"I did not think that I will be able to to see this game. So I was very happy that I could have a chance to watch it," said a traveller from Scotland.
The FIFA Official Store at Changi has also benefited from the World Cup fever, with sales surging by 50 percent since the start of the competition.
Changi is confident that by the end of the competition, more than 100,000 passengers would have watched football at the airport.
During the 2006 World Cup, passengers were also able to catch the action at Changi Airport.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Jewel of Muscat arrives in Singapore
Jewel of Muscat arrives in Singapore
The Jewel of Muscat has arrived in Singapore. A replica of a 9th century Arabian dhow, it is a gift from the Sultanate of Oman to the Government and people of Singapore.
After more than four months at sea, its journey has been described as a triumph of the human spirit.
The ship set sail from Oman and called at ports in India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia on its way to Singapore.
When it finally docked at the Marina Keppel Bay on Saturday, the crew were greeted by Omani dancers, and Singapore's own welcoming party.
At the welcome ceremony, President S R Nathan congratulated the crew for their successful journey.
The ship will be housed as a centrepiece of Resorts World Sentosa's upcoming attraction, the Maritime Xperiential Museum.
President Nathan said: "Being at the crossroads between east and West, Singapore is a fitting place for the Jewel to be based.
"Historically, ships from Arab destinations stopped in Singapore or in ports nearby to await the change of the monsoons, before continuing their journey eastwards to China or the other way."
The 18-metre long ship was built using traditional materials.
Not a single nail or screw was used, and the crew stayed as true as possible to ancient sailing methods.
Saleh Said Al Jbri, captain, Jewel of Muscat, said: "She sailed fast when she wished, and she is slow as well when she so likes.
"But she was keen to reach Singapore, carrying noble meaning and values, and beautiful memories of her hometown Oman."
The Jewel of Muscat project will be remembered as a testament to the excellent ties between Singapore and Oman.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Jewel of Muscat has arrived in Singapore. A replica of a 9th century Arabian dhow, it is a gift from the Sultanate of Oman to the Government and people of Singapore.
After more than four months at sea, its journey has been described as a triumph of the human spirit.
The ship set sail from Oman and called at ports in India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia on its way to Singapore.
When it finally docked at the Marina Keppel Bay on Saturday, the crew were greeted by Omani dancers, and Singapore's own welcoming party.
At the welcome ceremony, President S R Nathan congratulated the crew for their successful journey.
The ship will be housed as a centrepiece of Resorts World Sentosa's upcoming attraction, the Maritime Xperiential Museum.
President Nathan said: "Being at the crossroads between east and West, Singapore is a fitting place for the Jewel to be based.
"Historically, ships from Arab destinations stopped in Singapore or in ports nearby to await the change of the monsoons, before continuing their journey eastwards to China or the other way."
The 18-metre long ship was built using traditional materials.
Not a single nail or screw was used, and the crew stayed as true as possible to ancient sailing methods.
Saleh Said Al Jbri, captain, Jewel of Muscat, said: "She sailed fast when she wished, and she is slow as well when she so likes.
"But she was keen to reach Singapore, carrying noble meaning and values, and beautiful memories of her hometown Oman."
The Jewel of Muscat project will be remembered as a testament to the excellent ties between Singapore and Oman.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, 1 July 2010
Enter a New World at Night Festival
Enter a New World at Night Festival
INSTEAD of shooting moving targets such as rubber ducks in an amusement park, visitors will be "shot" at in the Abusement Park.
The Abusement Park, an interactive display by Singapore art trio Vertical Submarine, which "tortures" visitors and encourages them to laugh at themselves, will be up at the National Museum during the Night Festival: New World 2010.
The festival, which is in its third year, will be held on July 16 and 17, from 7.30pm to 2am. During these times, admission to the National Museum, Singapore Art Museum, Peranakan Museum and The Substation will be free.
Shows will be held at eight sites in the Bras Basah area. The area from the National Museum to Fort Canning Green will be lit and transformed into an entertainment arena, with acts from the 1960s, modern entertainment and futuristic shows.
This year's theme was inspired by amusement parks of the 1960s, such as New World. The festival will showcase the arts, sports and entertainment that made up nightlife in the past, and aims to change the perception that nightlife here revolves solely around partying.
Ms Lee Chor Lin, the director of the National Museum, said: "In many ways, the 1960s was representative of an era of entertainment in Singapore's past a decade that saw us through our independence. People were not wealthy then, but they sure had a good time."
-News courtesy of Omy-
INSTEAD of shooting moving targets such as rubber ducks in an amusement park, visitors will be "shot" at in the Abusement Park.
The Abusement Park, an interactive display by Singapore art trio Vertical Submarine, which "tortures" visitors and encourages them to laugh at themselves, will be up at the National Museum during the Night Festival: New World 2010.
The festival, which is in its third year, will be held on July 16 and 17, from 7.30pm to 2am. During these times, admission to the National Museum, Singapore Art Museum, Peranakan Museum and The Substation will be free.
Shows will be held at eight sites in the Bras Basah area. The area from the National Museum to Fort Canning Green will be lit and transformed into an entertainment arena, with acts from the 1960s, modern entertainment and futuristic shows.
This year's theme was inspired by amusement parks of the 1960s, such as New World. The festival will showcase the arts, sports and entertainment that made up nightlife in the past, and aims to change the perception that nightlife here revolves solely around partying.
Ms Lee Chor Lin, the director of the National Museum, said: "In many ways, the 1960s was representative of an era of entertainment in Singapore's past a decade that saw us through our independence. People were not wealthy then, but they sure had a good time."
-News courtesy of Omy-
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)