Don’t leave Singapore without trying this...

Singapore chicken rice

A simple yet beloved dish of succulent poached chicken paired with red chilli sauce and rice steamed with ginger,garlic and chicken stock.

Coffee and tea, Singapore style

Straight ‘kopi’ or ‘teh’ contains both sugar and condensed milk. If this is too sweet for you, order it kosong (without sugar) or o kosong (straight and bitter).

Kaya toast and eggs

This local breakfast favorite is a little like Singaporean soldiers: delicious coconut egg jam that is spread on toast, with accompanying soft-boiled eggs.

Black pepper crab

It’s difficult to go past the world-famous chilli crab, but you’d be missing out if you didn’t also sample the black pepper crab, butter crab or crab bee hoon.

Bak Kut Teh

While the direct translation of bak kut teh (meat bone tea!) leaves a bit to be desired, this Chinese soup is far more delicious than it sounds, consisting of meaty pork ribs simmered in a delicious broth infused with star anise, cinnamon, cloves, fennel and garlic.

Top 10 must-buys in Singapore

                                     No matter how many times you travel to Singapore, there are some things you simply MUST buy while you are there. The shopping experience you will find in Singapore is paralleled only by the Champs Elysees of Paris, France and 5th Avenue, in Manhattan. Clearly, your visit to Singapore will inevitably end up being a shopping trip. In a nation with so much to offer, there are a few items you won’t be able to resist.  

Asian antiques and artifacts

Asian antiques and artifacts will probably be first on your list and they are in abundance in Singapore. With imports coming in from all around the globe and having a rich, ancient history of its own, Singapore offers treasures at every turn. Your best finds will probably be found at Tanglin Shopping Centre, Chinatown and Holland Village.

Cameras are another hot ticket

Cameras are another item in Singapore and with good reason. Peninsula Plaza is probably your best source, but there isn’t a store in Singapore that doesn’t offer analog and digital cameras, photography accessories and photo processing services. Other recommended places to buy cameras are Sim Lim Square and Funan DigitaLife Mall.

Computers are in big demand

These days and Singapore will certainly not disappoint the discriminating shopper. Sim Lim Square, Funan IT Mall, Mustafa Centre and Peninsula Shopping Centre are your best bets, as are stores such as Challenger, Harvey Norman, Challenger and Courts.

Electronics are always

Electronic goods are big attraction in Singapore, especially at places like Funan IT Mall and Mustafa in Little India. Technology gadgets, gamer equipment and all the audio-visual peripheral equipment you can imagine are available in Singapore for your shopping pleasure.

Gifts and curios

Such as statues, wall decorations, Singapore Sling premix and chocolates are always popular. Gold dipped orchids, paper kites and parasols, calligraphy, wooden boxes, posters and other artworks can fill your luggage faster than you realize once you start shopping in Singapore.

Fashion is certainly

Certainly something you have to buy while visiting Singapore. Whether you can afford to browse the abundance of top-dollar designer labels found on Orchard Road or if you prefer the more bohemian, trendy looks of Bugis Junction, there is something for everyone in fashion in Singapore.

Handbags and luggage

Handbags and luggage are another popular purchase in Singapore. Designer labels, hand-stitched one-of-a-kind items and everything in between are available, once you start looking. It is very likely that, by the time you are ready to leave Singapore, you will NEED another bag or another piece of luggage to carry all your purchases!

Watches and jewellery

Watches and jewellery must be part of Singapore’s Top 10 with more choices than anyone could make in five lifetimes. Masterfully handcrafted timepieces, world famous watch manufacturers and affordable standard watches can be found in every shopping district of Singapore. Many visitors find that Singapore’s national inventory of jewellery is simply mind-boggling. Inexpensive bangles to million-dollar crown jewels are all available for a price. You could practically say that the streets of Singapore are lined with gold, as every shop has jewellery and watches for sale.

Textiles, especially for sarees

Sarongs and scarves, are probably the most colorful and varied shopping you can do in Singapore. Brightly dyed, shimmering, metallic, batik, silk, cotton, beaded…you name it, it is in Singapore. Arab Street and Little India are your best bets and walking down the alleys with all the fabrics waving and flapping in the breeze often feels more exotic and luxurious than any designer label display could ever be.

Food may not be seen

Food may not be seen as a normal purchase for foreign visitors but, let’s face it, the food of Singapore is never to be forgotten.You may as well bring some of it home with you. Spices, biscuits, sauces, and even the cooking utensils and serving dishes are all must-buys when visiting Singapore.

Heritage Tour around Colonial Changi(Part-1):

                         Changi, best known for the internationally famous airport Singaporeans are proud of. Or, to some, that delicious nasi lemak at the hawker centre of Changi Village. But Changi is much more than that. More than a dozen buildings and landmarks with significant heritage can still be found in this vicinity with a rich vibrant past.

Development of Changi:

Changi was originally well-known for its coconut and sago plantations in the 19th century. Its actual development only began in the 1920s after the Army Council in London approved a proposal to convert Changi into a defensive fortress of Singapore. In summary, a colonial Changi could be divided in three phases: Artillery Base (1927-1942), Japanese Occupation (1942-1945) and Royal Air Force (RAF) Changi (1946-1971).

                           In 1927, prominent British general Webb Gillman (1870-1933), who had Gillman Barracks named after him, surveyed the Changi area. It was a land of swamps and forests, with three hilly areas later known as Fairy Point Hill, Battery Hill and Temple/Changi Hills. The only accessible route from the city was an unpaved track that ended at the rural police station at the old Changi Village. The early permanent roads built in Changi were the New Road, Quarry Road and Artillery Road, all of which reflected the historic significance of the early development of Changi. After the war, they were renamed as Netheravon Road, Cranwell Road and Martlesham Road respectively, after other RAF stations in the United Kingdom. The construction of Changi was suddenly put to a halt in 1930 when Britain was hit by the Great Depression. However, with Japan’s ambitions in the east began surfacing in the early 1930s, the British resumed the work on the Changi defense. By the mid-1930s, the basic military facilities at Changi were ready. The Royal Engineers moved into the Kitchener Barracks, whereas the Robert Barracks were reserved for the Royal Artillery. Selarang Barracks became home for the Gordon Highlanders, the infantry battalion from Scotland. The Anti-Aircraft Regiment later arrived to live at the India Barracks located on the east side of Changi Road. Sport facilities, cinemas, clubhouses and schools were also built for the welfare and the benefits for the military personnel and their families. By 1941, the development of Changi as a self-contained base was completed. It took 15 years for Changi to transform from a swampy land of forest to a modern military base.

A New Air Base

                       When Changi was occupied by the invading forces after the British surrendered Singapore in February 1942, the Japanese forced thousands of POWs to build an airstrip. It took more than year before the new runway was ready for the first aircraft to take off in late 1944. After the war, the airstrip was not destroyed by the returning British forces. Instead they capitalized on it and handed the airfield over to its Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1946. This permanently changed the face of Changi, as it evolved from an artillery base to an air base. The withdrawal of British military presence from Singapore began in 1968. The Seletar Air Base was taken over by the Singapore government a year later. But the British was keen to hold on to RAF Changi until 1971. The Selarang Barracks was renamed as Selarang Camp, whereas the Roberts and India Barracks became part of Changi Camp (now Changi Air Base). Majority of the former Kitchener Barracks was placed under the management of the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).

The Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay :

                              Esplanade - Theaters on the Bay is one of the world's busiest arts centers, officially opened on 12 October 2002. This architectural icon with its distinctive twin shells, is sited within Singapore's civic district, just by Marina Bay at the mouth of the Singapore River. Esplanade aims to be a performing arts center for everyone, and its programs cater to its diverse audiences. Its program line-up spans all genres to encompass music, dance, theater and visual arts, with a special emphasis on Asian culture. Esplanade houses world-class performance spaces, supported by a comprehensive range of professional support facilities and services. Its two main venues are the 1,600-seat Concert Hall, with acoustics by Russell Johnson of ARTEC Consultants, and the 2,000-seat theater, an adaptation of traditional European opera houses in horseshoe form.

Man made marvel:

                         The Esplanade's 2,000 seat Theater is a form of an adaptation of the horseshoe form of a traditional European opera house. Spread out over four levels, it is designed for all genres of the performing arts, including but not limited to Asian and Western arts, Musicals and plays, classical, traditional and contemporary forms and advanced multimedia performances, whether they are large scale, or intimate in size.Although the theater is considered large with 2000 seats, the viewing distance between the furthest seat and the stage is just 40m, thus allowing patrons a clear view of what's going on on stage.There are only five other halls in the world with such state-of-the-art acoustics.

 The design:

 

                            The building was designed by two architectural firms working in conjunction: by DP Architects (DPA) of Singapore and the London-based Michael Wilford & Partners (MWP), although the later left the project in May 1995.The original design, presented to the public in 1994, consisted of unadorned glass cases over the theaters, and initially elicited criticisms from the public, including calling it "two copulating aardvarks". Critics also accused that the design is insensitive to Singapore's location and climate as it would have created a greenhouse in the tropical climate of Singapore, but according to DPA director Vikas Gore some form of shading was always intended[3], and a cladding of aluminum sunshades was added to the final design.The unique architectural design has been said to have an appearance similar to either a durian (a tropical fruit) or the eyes of a fly. Many Singaporeans casually refer to the Esplanade as "The Durian".

Facilities:

                              The Esplanade contains world-class performing spaces, coupled with a wide range of professional support services and facilities. Other than performing venues, the Esplanade also contains meeting venues, as well as other lifestyle and arts related services. The main highlights of the Esplanade - the concert hall and Theater, are connected to the main concourse via a foyer, while the Esplanade Mall is accessible through an entry point located between these 2 halls.

Concert Hall:

 

                            The Concert Hall is able to comfortably seat 1,600 people over four levels in an intimate setting. Types of seats include Stalls, Foyer stalls, and Circles 1, 2, and 3. There are another 200 seats in the choir stalls behind the concert hall stage, which may be converted into Gallery seats for an additional 200 people. There are also four exclusive VIP Private Boxes, which provide a close-up view of the performances.

Recital Studio

 

                       The fan-shaped Recital Studio is able to contain 250 people and is a good venue for small scale and intimate chamber musical performances, as well as presentations and meetings. In addition to its timbre flooring, the studio's wall and ceiling finishes are designed in order to ensure good acoustics. The Studio is also commonly used as a rehearsal space for orchestras and choirs.

Theater Studio:

                      The Theater Studio, with a capacity of 220, is a small setting for experimental theater and dance presentations. The performance space, equipped with movable and retractable seating, offers a wide variety of configurations . Although small, it is equipped with adaptable staging, lighting and sound systems, therefore enabling it to accommodate different kinds of performances. As it is approximately the same size as the Theater stage, the Theater Studio is also commonly used for full production rehearsals.

Outdoor Venues:

                        The Esplanade features two outdoor performing venues. They are the Waterfront Stage and the Stage@Powerhouse, located along the promenade. These venues stage regular free performances, meant to liven up the arts scene. Other than that, the building also features a large roof terrace with a panoramic view of Marina Bay and the city area. There are also courtyards and open spaces which can be used for various activities.

10 Ways to Save Money in Singapore:

You don't have to become Singa(poor) to enjoy a few days or longer in this multinational city! Use these money saving tips to enjoy Singapore on a budget.Always the bane of backpackers and budget travellers, saving money in Singapore isn't easy, but it is possible. Many travellers unfortunately only plan a few days in Singapore, or give it a miss entirely once they hear how expensive the city/country really is.

Get a CEPAS/EZ-LINK Card:

Many travellers make the mistake of not purchasing Singapore's excellent transportation card when they first arrive. Instead, they pay for each bus and train journey which quickly adds up.An EZ-Link card costs S$15 and includes S$10 worth of credit. You can purchase and add credit to cards at MRT train stations and mini-marts. Having an EZ-Link card will also save you a lot of time waiting in queues at ticket machines in MRT stations.The EZ-Link card can be used on the LRT, MRT (trains), and excellent public buses. By using an EZ-Link card, you pay only for the distance travelled, rather than a flat fare like everyone else -- just don't forget to tap your card on the reader as you exit the bus!

Don't Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass

The Singapore Tourist Pass is similar to the EZ-Link card, however, it allows for unlimited rides during a one, two, or three-day stay. The Tourist Passes aren't cheap: A one-day pass costs around S$18 which includes a refund for returning the card. You would need to take four or five rides on the MRT per day to just break even! Unless you really get a thrill out of riding trains around the city, chances are that you'll spend a lot of your pass time walking around the sights and less on the train.

Drink the Water

Unlike other countries in Southeast Asia, the tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. This is good news, as a bottle of water can cost around S$2 at mini-marts! Buy a small bottle of water, then refill it for free.

Eat in Food Halls

Singapore is blessed with some of the best food courts, food halls, and hawker stalls found anywhere in Asia. A notch above the street food typically found in places such as Thailand, a delicious meal can be enjoyed for between S$4 -- S$6 in food halls. You can eat for under S$3 if you don't mind Chinese noodles and noodle soups.The food courts found in posh malls and at the bottoms of nearly every skyscraper are priced slightly higher than standalone food centers. Check out the sprawling food center in Chinatown, or the cheap-yet-delightful Lau Pa Sat food center near the Raffles MRT stop.

Don't Drink or Smoke

5. Thanks to excessive taxation, vices come with a heavy price in Singapore. A pack of Marlboro cigarettes runs around S$12, and drinking is terribly expensive even by US or European standards. Entry into nightclubs can be up to S$30 which includes one watery drink.If you still crave a socializing atmosphere, opt to buy drinks from the 7-11 located at the end of Clarke Quay, then hang out around the water. Just look for the pedestrian bridge covered with people lounging around.

Enjoy the Parks

5. Although Singapore appears to be mostly concrete, the city is blessed with an excellent park matrix which spiders through the city. The parks and skyline views can be enjoyed for free, and a complex interconnecting system links parks to each other via a skywalk.

Take Advantage of Freebies

5. Savvy travellers can find art displays, public performances, and street performers along the riverfront, esplanade, and city centre -- particularly on weekends.Entrance to museums in Singapore is expensive, however, several days or evenings a month the entrance fee is waved for special exhibitions. Check at the counter and inside of free attractions magazines for promotion dates.If you cannot time your visit for open museum days, consider purchasing the three-day pass which allows you unlimited museum visits for S$20.

Only Shop in the Right Places

Singapore has more shopping malls than you could explore in months. Even ultra-modern Changi Airport is practically one big mall which happens to have the occasional airplane land or take off.Many of these malls are ridiculously expensive. Instead, do your souvenir and incidental shopping in cheap shops around Chinatown and Little India.Purchase your snacks, drinks, and toiletries from the big supermarkets located under many of the big malls rather than in mini-marts. VivoMart beneath VivoCity -- the largest mall in Singapore -- regularly has food and drink specials.

Make a New Friend

Accommodation in Singapore is expensive. A bunk bed in a crowded hostel dorm costs around S$20; a night in a modest hotel may require you to give blood. Couch surfing with one of the many expats living in Singapore is a great way to sleep for free, and also gives you a local's insight into how to enjoy Singapore on a budget.

Don't Get Busted

Locals joke that Singapore is a "fine" city -- which obviously comes with two meanings. Although you rarely see police officers around the city, rest assured that many people do get fined here for seemingly innocuous activities; the fine-payment kiosks dotted around are a sure indication.

Although you would have to get very unlucky, avoid paying fines by being aware of the following:

The number one reason to get fined in Singapore is for not using marked crosswalks.

Seat belts are required when in a car; the driver cannot use a mobile phone while moving.

Riding a bike on pedestrian-only paths such as around the river is forbidden.

Chewing gum, snacks, and drinks are not permitted on the MRT trains or public transportation.



Transformers- 3D the ride:

The Ride-3D is an immersive, next generation thrill ride-blurring the line between fiction and reality. Fusing HD 3D media and flight simulation technology, this epic ride creates an experience unlike anything this planet has ever seen.Based on the popular movie franchise, this mind-blowing Transformers adventure puts you in the middle of the ultimate war zone.Fight alongside Optimus and try to survive as you protect the AllSpark from Decepticons over four stories tall. Remember, the future of the human race is counting on you.

OPENING HOURS:

Mon to Thurs: 10am to 7pm daily,
Fri, Sat and Public Holidays: 10am to 9pm ,
Sun: 10am to 7pm.
Park Operating hours are subject to change without notice.

Fragrance Creation Workshop

        Ever wanted to create your own fragrance? Sandy from Nose who Knows, a fragrance expert, will guide you through a new world of scents. Take your sense of smell on a journey of pleasure and education as you familiarize with perfume structure and key olfactive facets. Finally let go of your creativity and imagination to compose your own formula !

The objectives 

• Learn the basics of perfume creation 
• Understand the importance of olfactory tenacity and intensity 
• Create a unique fragrance.

The program

• Explanation of perfume composition, from raw materials to creation
• Application of notions of top – middle – bottom notes 
• Presentation of the olfactory facets in a perfume 
• Composing a perfume formula using facets 
• Make a composition 
• Evaluate your creation

Acquired knowledge

• Understanding the olfactory pyramid 
• Identify different facets of a fragrance 
• Introduction to the art of creation

Additionally you will be able to take 3 of your creations home (0.5ml each)! Only 12 participants will have the chance to join this experience. So get you tickets NOW!

Halloween Horror Nights 3

Halloween is coming. This means that the Universal Studios Singapore Halloween Horror Nights is back!

This is the 3rd year Universal Studios Singapore is doing a Halloween theme park. Universal Studios Singapore is serious about scaring you when they use more than 400 scare actors, 3000 prosthetics make up pieces and more than 5 gallons of fake blood every night to create the most horrifying experience. With 3 specially created movie-quality haunted houses, 3 immersive scare zones and a Halloween themed musical show, Halloween Horror Night 3 is a must go for adventure seekers.

Adrift

A storm battered ship is found mysteriously adrift after being lost at sea since 1910. The crew has vanished. But of cos there are some other stuff left behind to haunt you. Adrift is a very nicely built haunted ship. It gives you the feeling that you are really on a ship. In fact, some of the rooms reminds you of Titanic. A haunted Titanic. The area is kinda dark too so beware. You never know who or what is waiting for you round the corner.

Songs of Death

Songs of Death is perhaps the most scary haunted house at Halloween Horror Nights 3. The haunted house is based on a Chinese Opera Academy. Which means there are things like joss papers and other traditional Chinese religion items around. Kinda creepy. Maybe because we can relate to those items. The Convention of Curses isn’t really a scare zone. It is more like a pasar malam with witches and wizards trying to sell their crafts. An interesting zone to visit. Hey, you might meet a beautiful Sorcerer if you are lucky.

Halloween Horror Nights 3 runs for 10 nights over four weekends, from 11 – 12 October, 18 – 19 October, 25 – 26 October and 31 October to 3 November 2013, from 7pm to 1am each evening. The theme park will close earlier on event nights at 5.30pm during this period.

Top 6 reasons to visit Singapore

                         Singapore is undoubted one of the world's most popular visitor destinations. It is the 5th most visited city by international tourist arrivals based on statistics and rankings by the World Tourism Organization.

Vibrant Entertainment and Lifestyle Scene

Singapore is a dynamic destination that offers a diverse range of exciting activities to suit the different interests of visitors, whether they are leisure or business travellers. Its story of continuing transformation delivers unique, personal and fresh experiences. In addition to the popular Singapore Zoo, Botanic Gardens and Night Safari, Singapore now boast attractions that draw even more visitors. Some of the favourites include the Marina Bay Sands casino hotel and its iconic Sands Skypark, Resort World casino resort and Universal Studios on Sentosa and Singapore Flyer, the giant Ferris wheel at Marina Bay. Adding adrenalin and excitement to Singapore's events scene is the world's only FORMULA ONE night race. The Grand Prix Season in Singapore presents opportunities for exclusive experiences for the discerning visitor, from F1 afficionados watching the race from the best suites, to non-race goers who just want to soak up the action outside the race circuit.24-hour entertainment precincts have also increased the appeal of Singapore's nightlife. Discerning visitors have a myriad of activities to indulge in and places to unwind at including nightclubs such as Pangaea, Avalon and Quaich Bar, Asia's largest whiskey bar in Resorts World Sentosa.

A safe, green and clean city

Singapore is considered by many as one of the safest city in the world. Thanks to a supporting government program dating from the ’60s, Singapore is also one of the world’s greenest cities. With a strict cap on the number of vehicles allowed on the island, and with more than 5 percent of the island reserved for nature, Singapore is literally a breath of fresh air. Lastly, the «Lion City» is admirably clean! Littering, spitting and smoking in public places is banned and verbalized, and all possible measures are taken to ensure an extraordinary cleanliness.

Melting Pot of Diverse Cultures

Singapore is a cosmopolitan society where people live harmoniously and interaction among different races is a common part of daily life. Visitors can enjoy the best of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian cultures through the many traditional and religious festivals that fill the Singapore calendar.Singapore is one of the world's best cities to celebrate the Chinese New Year; Hari Raya brings Malay festive decorations and food; the streets of Little India are rich with the sights, sounds and scents of Deepavali; and Churches sing with joy while Orchard road lights up during Christmas. The cultural and religious tolerance is most clearly illustrated by temples, churches and mosques located side by side on the same street.

An accessible and amazing airport

Easily accessible from all over the world, Singapore’s Changi International Airport is surprising! This astonishing airport feels like a tropical city, where everything is designed to make life easier. It feels cozy, with massage spots and an amazing garden bursting with cacti, orchids and a butterfly aviary. Changi looks like a luxury hotel, and you'll almost forget you're there to catch a plane!

Cheap to get around in public transport

Getting around Singapore is quite easy. Singapore public transportation system is among the best in the world. Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), Light Rapid Transit (LRT) or buses takes you to almost every corner of Singapore.

Food capital of the world

The city-state dominates the 'net with food blogs where hungry netizens compare, dissect, argue and swap foodie fodder, scouring the island for new tastes. And nearly every conceivable victual from every earthly corner has a home here. Fancy authentic Egyptian Baba Ghanoush? Arab Street's got you covered. Crave something Nigerian besides a scam e-mail? Find it on Verdun Road in Little India. If it's edible and fits on a plate, bowl, banana leaf or sheet of paper, we'll wolf it with zeal. But if you truly want to sample Singapore’s food culture, head to any of the hawker centers in the heartlands -- there’s a huge variety of stalls there at dirt-cheap prices.

Travel tips for tourists

If you are travelling to Singapore, be sure to carry the following:

•  Sun Glasses - Singapore is usually bright and sunny. 
• Umbrella - Be sure to carry an umbrella in your luggage,as there is some precipitation throughout the year. However, the rain does not last long (usually).
•  Sun block - If you plan to go out during the day time, it is advisable to apply sun block as it is mostly sunny throughout the year. 
• Shorts/Half Pants - Singapore can get real warm. Although air-conditioning is available in all public transports (except a few public buses) and almost all internal areas, it is advisable to carry some light clothing. Do note that some places of worship may require visitors to dress conservatively. 
• Flip-flops - Singaporeans love to wear flip-flops. Be sure to carry a pair, just to blend in. Try sandals if you're not used to flip flops, but beware - in some formal establishments (e.g. catching a show at Esplanade) no flip flops, sandals, or shorts are allowed.

 

Tax Refund Scheme

While you are in Singapore, you can get a refund on the seven percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on your purchases. Look out for retailers displaying the “Tax Refund” logo and spend SGD100 or more to qualify. GST is refunded directly to you at selected retailers, Changi International Airport or Seletar Airport on goods that are brought out of Singapore. A handling fee for the refund service may be deducted from the GST amount. Please note that tax refund is available for departure by air only.

Money Matters

The currency used in Singapore is the Singapore dollar (S$). Money changing services can be found not only at the Singapore Changi Airport but also most shopping centres and hotels around the island. You can also access the automated teller machines (ATMs) located everywhere (even in the most obscure bits) in Singapore, that accept most of the main credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

Cell Phone Usage

Singapore’s international dialing code is +(65). While in Singapore and if you have international roaming service on your cell phone, you don’t have to press +(65) as it will automatically connect you to the local numbers here. However it is suggested to buy a matrix sim card as the call charges are 50% less than your roaming bill and incoming is free.

Consumer Advisory

Most Singapore retailers have fair business practices, but there are a small number of shops and restaurants that might make your shopping experience less than ideal. Here are some smart shopping tips to ensure that your retail experience is a pleasant one.

Always do price comparisons to get the best deals

Prices can vary widely between shops because distributors are not obliged to abide by each product’s Recommended Retail Price (RRP). Ask the retailer also if the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) applies. Also note that purchases above SGD100 in a single receipt entitle you to GST refunds if you leave Singapore by air. Please read the section on the GST Refund Scheme for more information.

Note that purchases made are usually final

In Singapore, retailers generally enforce strict return, exchange or refund policies the moment payment is made. Always ask your retailer about their policies before making payment for your purchase.

Check receipts or invoices for accuracy

Do remember to ask for a receipt of invoice whenever you make a purchase, and keep it for reference. Also check that prices and item descriptions are correct to ensure that you do not pay more than what is required. Remember to check that gifts, when applicable, should be indicated as such.

Verify what your ‘international warranty’ covers

International warranties are not standardized, and you should always ask and verify that your warranty is valid in your home country. Ensure that both your invoice and warranty card bear your retailer’s stamp and signature. In the case of electronic goods, note down the product’s serial number as well. - Also note that there are no international warranties on the purchase of mobile phones. - A “worldwide local warranty” means that the warranty is available only in the country of purchase – “worldwide” here refers to the availability of the product, not the warranty. - Parallel imported items have no warranty, and retailers usually do not entertain returns, refunds or exchanges.

Check before leaving the store

Before making payment, make sure that you test the item you wish to purchase, and take time to check that the promised accessories and peripherals are included in the package, and work as they should.

Getting Around Singapore:

                    Getting around Singapore is easy, the public transportation system is extremely easy to use and taxis are reasonably priced when you can get one. Very few visitors rent cars.

By Rail:

The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) are trains that are the main trunk of Singapore's transit system. They are a cheap and very reliable mode of transportation, and the network covers most points of interest for the visitor. EZ-link or Nets FlashPay fare cards (described above) are the easiest and most popular ways to use the MRT. All lines are seamlessly integrated, even if the lines are operated by different transport companies, so you do not need to buy a new ticket to transfer. All train lines use contact less RFID tickets. The MRT stations are clean and usually equipped with free toilets. Underground stations have platform screen doors between the train and the platform while most above-ground stations have Half-height Platform Screen Doors (HHPSDs) so there is no risk of falling onto the tracks. The North-East line is fully automated, as is the new Circle Line, the LRT and all upcoming lines, so it's worth walking up to the front of the train to look out a tiny window and realize that there is no driver! There are exceptions though, when a staff member comes in to drive the train. This is common when a train's automatic driving system fails. In this case, a tape will be put up behind the driving area to prevent passengers from interfering with the driver.

 By Bus:

Buses connect various corners of Singapore, but are slower and harder to use than the MRT. The advantage though of this is you get to see the sights rather than a dark underground tunnel at a low price. You can pay cash (coins) in buses, but the fare stage system is quite complex (it's easiest to ask the driver for the price to your destination), you are charged marginally more and there is no provision for getting change. Payment with ez-link or Nets Flashpay card is thus the easiest method: tap your card against the reader at the front entrance of the bus when boarding, and a maximum fare is deducted from the card. When you alight, tap your card again at the exit, and the difference is refunded. Make sure you tap out, or you'll end up paying the maximum fare!

 By Taxi:

Taxis use meters and are reasonably priced and honest, however, a shortage of taxis in Singapore means that they are often unavailable for hours at a time. Outside weekday peak hours, trips within the city centre should not cost you more than $10 and even a trip right across the island from Changi to Jurong will not break the $35 mark. If you are in a group of 3 or 4, it's sometimes cheaper and faster to take a taxi than the MRT. Be aware, however, that taxis are often remarkably difficult to secure, especially during peak commute or shopping hours, or when there is inclement weather. During these times it can be impossible to get through to a booking agent via telephone, and you can expect extended waits in taxi queues. There is a puzzling lack of action to address this persistent and frustrating taxi shortage.

 

 By Trishaw:

Trishaws, three-wheeled bicycle taxis, haunt the area around the Singapore River and Chinatown. Geared purely for tourists, they should be avoided for serious travel as locals do not use them. There is little room for bargaining: short rides will cost $10-20 and an hour's sightseeing charter about $50 per person.

Singapore Shopping Spots

            Most of the visitors like to shop in the Singapore not because they have an incredible variety of goods, but believe it not you get it at much reasonable price if compared to other global markets. Singapore has amazing malls to local neighbourhood selling an extensive range of local goods, arts and artifacts; sealed seafood is a big attraction for the tourists visiting this place. The visitors spend their nightlife in shopping and there are various tourist destinations that are especially set up for this purpose. The top 10 places for shopping in this place are,

Haji Lane:

In Singapore, Haji Lane is the best Place for vintage shopping. It is located at Bugis MRT Station, Kampong Glam, a small alley filled with independent designer stores and rows of boutiques at a great price of Gwen Stefani.

Parco Marina Bay:

It is located at Raffles Boulevard, Millenia Walk near Promenade MRT station. It is a three complex building. In level one you will see the beauty junkies with unique beauty brands like Ahava, Korres and Harnn. The level two caters to fashionistas with fashion labels and boutiques from Japan, Korea and Hong Kong. In level three you will see great food called “Itadakimasu” in Japanese style.

Mustafa Centre:

It is built up of two-complexes in the heart of little Indian style, designed like a round clock and you can find everything from latest electronics to the ethnic jewellery. It is located at Syed Alwi Road in Singapore.

ION Orchard:

It is called as monster mall. It has 333 stores plus 48 residential floors with high fashion brands. You will find all types of items which you need and it is located at Orchard Turn, Orchard MRT station.

Sungei Road Thieves’ Market: It is best place for shopping all things like retro, torn and worn. It is Singapore’s oldest market which stretches between Weld Road and Kelantan Road and offers the best shopping experience. It is located at Jalan Besar, Sungei Road.  

Chinatown:

It is a very popular shopping mall in Asia, featured with Traditional Chinese medicine shops, Indian temples, souvenir shacks and nighttime hawkers. It is located at MRT Station, Outram.

Little India:

Little India is the centre of the large Indian community in Singapore. It is located at Syed Alwi Road, Racecourse Road, Jalan Besar. It is packed with stalls selling all sorts of Indian goods and also includes amazing restaurants, art galleries and vegetable stalls.

Ann Siang Road:

It road consists of various fashion boutiques, niche book stores and French patisseries. The Ann Siang Road area includes delightful old shop house and makes afternoon stroll wonderful. It is situated at Chinatown MRT station.

Books Actually:

It is a best place for book lovers in Singapore and it is an independent bookshop at Yong Siak Street, Ann Siang Road. This is the best shopping place for books in fiction and literature which includes poetry, essays and literacy journals. It also distributes books under imprint math paper press, hand-stitches note books and produces stationary under Birds &Co. It is very different from the usual bookstores.

Bugis Junction:

The part of the mall is complete with glass ceilings, air-conditioned and kids love getting drenched at outdoor fountain at the Bugis Square. It is situated at the red light district of Singapore and is a wonderful place for the best time.

Sports and Recreational Attractions of Singapore:

Introduction:

Singapore is an island country consisting of 63 islands in Southeast Asia, with a small population of about 5.2 million but a land area of only less than 19,000 square miles, making Singapore the third most densely populated country in the world!And if you are searching for a place to get adrenaline rush , this is the place what you are looking for.

Bowling in Singapore:

 

Singapore has over 200 bowling centres, each offering more than 20 lanes. Most bowling centres open as early as 9:00 a.m. and close between 1:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m., though there are some 24-hour centres, mostly in the Marina South area.

Bum boats in Singapore:

 

Start your visit to Singapore with a ride on a 'bumboat' on the Singapore river. Bum boats are traditional boats that carried cargo back and forth from warehouses to ships. Boats leave from Boat Quay, North Boat Quay, Clark Quay or Clifford Pier.

Water rides:

 

Beat the heat in this water park, with activities for the entire family. There's a kiddie pool for toddlers and action-packed slides and chutes where you ride down fast-moving water on river rafts, or inner tubes. Big kids will want to try the "Black Hole," slide through a completely dark tunnel.

Singapore Popular Food

What to eat in Singapore?

Singapore is Asia's food capital. When it comes to food, Singapore is one place where East meets West. This lens looks at popular Asian food in Singapore: bak kut teh, chai tow kway (fried carrot cake), char kway teow, chilli crab, curry fish head, Hainanese chicken rice, pepper crab, satay and laksa.

Bak Kut Teh

 

Bak kut teh in the Chinese Hokkien dialect means "meat bone tea". The "meat bone" here means pork ribs and the "tea" means soup, so bak kut teh is pork rib soup. The dish consists of meaty pork ribs in a broth of herbs and spices (including star anise, cinnamon, cloves, dang gui, fennel seeds and garlic), boiled together for hours. One can add other ingredients such as offal, varieties of mushroom, choy sum, and pieces of dried tofu or fried tofu puffs. Also, Chinese herbs may include yu zhu (rhizome of Solomon Seal) and ju zhi (buck thorn fruit), which give the soup a sweeter, slightly stronger flavour. Light and dark soy sauce are added to the soup during cooking. Garnishing include chopped coriander or green onions and a sprinkling of fried shallots.Bak kut teh is commonly eaten with rice and sometimes served with youtiao (strips of fried dough) for dipping into the soup. Soy sauce (usually light soy sauce, but dark soy sauce is also offered sometimes) is preferred as a condiment, with chopped chilli padi and minced garlic added.

Chai Tow Kway (Fried Carrot Cake)

 

Fried Carrot Cake in Singapore is known as "carrot cake" or Chai Tow Kway in Teochew (a Chinese dialect). "Chai Tow" means "carrot" but it must be noted that this "carrot" refers to white radish. "Kway" means "cake". Chai Tow Kway is a common dish of Teowchew cuisine. "Chai Tow Kway is made from rice flour and white radish.Fried carrot cake in Singapore is cut into pieces and stir fried with soy sauce, eggs, garlic, spring onion and occasionally dried shrimp. There are two variants: the 'white' version does not use sweet soy sauce, and the carrot cake is fried on top of a beaten egg to form a crust; the 'black' version uses sweet soy sauce, and the egg is simply mixed in with the carrot cake. For those who like it sweet, they ask for the black variant.

Chilli crab

 

Chilli crab iis made with hard-shell crabs, and cooked in thick gravy with a tomato chili base. It is a favourite at seafood restaurants.The dish comes packed fresh spices like galangal, ginger and turmeric, some are sweet-sour and rosy with tomato, others are ribboned with beaten egg, and still others carry the sting of chili oil. Chilli crabs are often served with a few slices of French bread or mantou (Chinese buns) to aid the eater in soaking up and eating the tomato chili sauce. Normal white bread may be used.

Singapore’s New Nightclubs Avalon and Pangaea

Super nightclub Avalon,and Ultra lounge Pangaea-Singapore:

More than 1,580 square meters of space spread over two floors means Avalon can have performers rocking and DJs spinning on the same night. Being able to go from a concert to the dance floor without even stepping outside just made partying that much easier.Guests can pull up to both Pangaea and Avalon conveniently by water taxi. While it's more bumboat than speedboat, it does mean cutting through city traffic and no traipsing from the taxi stand through the mall of Marina Bay Sands in your party finest.It’s all about the experience, and Pangaea’s owner Michael Ault has created a 300-meter-long LED-lit entrance cum decompression chamber to get you in the mood to party by the time you rock up to their velvet rope. And as there is no photography allowed, you can really let your hair down.Avalon Singapore has raised nightlife experience in the lion city to a new level with world-class music, state-of-the-art full-colour lasers, 3D mapping and high-fashion interiors. The present of Avalon makes Singapore become a new party capital of the world.

Flight Experience-Singapore

Fly the B737 without prior flying experience - Singapore:

 Our high fidelity Boeing 737-800 Flight Simulators are used for Pilot Training and have been approved by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia.With twelve stores in eight different countries, Flight Experience™ is the World Leader in Flight Simulator Entertainment. In fact, we have flown over 100,000 satisfied clients! Flight Experience is the only Boeing ‘Official Licenced Product’ in this industry. Key Features: Fully enclosed cockpit Full functioning avionics and computers – FMCs, autopilots and auto-throttles High definition (HD) 180° external visuals that accurately represent the terrain to photo realistic quality 24,000 airports to fly in and out of Countless flight tracks and routes can be flown anywhere in the world The ability to fly around any landmark from London Bridge to the Sydney Opera House Seats up to three people (as well as the simulator instructor) on the flight deck.

Singapore Bird Park

The Colourful Bird Park - Singapore:

Jurong Bird Park is home to the colours of the world, as Asia’s largest bird park with a collection of more than 5,000 birds across 400 species.covers 20.2 hectare open-concept park,Which includes birds discovery centre.It is currently the world's largest bird park in terms of number of birds, and second largest both in number of bird species and land.

Universal Studios Singapore

Universal Studios Singapore

Movie park-Universal studio theme park:

It is all about the blockbusters and the characters of it,Every inch of Universal studio is themed with the blockbuster movies.When it comes to ride that is present in park will give the adrenaline rush.People dressed like holly wood characters will roam around the places in park, which further attracts the public to take picture with them.Children will love this when their comic characters appear infront of them.Approximately, it has over 30 restaurants and food carts, together with 20 unique retail stores and carts located around the park.

Event in October 2013- Singapore

Fashion Week
South Korean pop sensation, Jung Ji-Hoon, better known by his stage name, Rain, will be gracing our shores this October for Fashion Week 2013.

Restrictions:All ages

Ticket Information:

Session Pass: $19.00

Day Pass: $37.00

Season Pass: $277.00

Time

Wed Oct 9, 7:30pm    Wed Oct 9, 9:00pm   

Thu Oct 10, 6:00pm    Thu Oct 10, 7:30pm   

Fri Oct 11, 10:00pm

 Singapore  Flyer

Singapore Flyer -(A moving experince in evey turn )is a giant Ferris wheel in Singapore that was constructed between 2005 and 2008. It is the world's largest Giant Observation Wheel.

 

Book the Package online click here

Under Water World - Sentosa

Tropical oceanarium on Sentosa Island including virtual tours of exhibits and information on programmes, conservation and education. it has more than 2,500 marine animals of 250 species from different regions of the world.

Place:80 Siloso Road, Sentosa  Singapore 098969

Swim With ,Swim With Sharks, Fun Learing.

Night Life in Singapore

Find the hottest and Best Singapore clubs! Singapore nightclubs range from the chic to relaxing. Explore Singapore  nightlife .

Wine and Chill

Drink Culture Singapore,St James Power Station,Shanghai Dolly,Timbre @ The Substation,Ta.ke,Orgo,COAST @ 1 Twenty Six,Bar Opiume

Bar and Lounges

Long Bar,Loof,New Asia,1-Altitude,Bars & Lounges,Drink Culture Singapore
Bar Stories,Barossa,Wild Oats,Wala Wala Café Bar,The Studio Cocktail Bar
Ta.ke,Post Bar,Pangaea,One Rochester,Malted Milk,LeVeL33,Lantern
KU DÉ TA Club Lounge,KPO,Ice-Cold Beer,Crazy Elephant,Boulevard
Beer Market,Balaclava, Tanjong Beach Club,Brewerkz,Orgo,Muddy Murphy’s Irish Pub,Paulaner Brauhaus,The Queen & Mangosteen,COAST @ 1 Twenty Six,Eski,Bar Opiume,Hideout

Dance Clubs

Velvet Underground,Acid Bar,Home Club,Zouk,Dance Clubs,The Pump Room
The Butter Factory,The Arena,St James Power Station,Shanghai Dolly
Phuture,Insomnia,EZ50 Music House,Avalon

Boat Quay

Clarke Quay

Robertson Quay


Beat with the MUSIC

Acid Bar,Home Club,Crazy Elephant,The Pump Room,St James Power Station
Shanghai Dolly,Insomnia,Wala Wala Café Bar,Timbre @ The Substation
Paulaner Brauhaus