Monthly Archives: April 2015

Night Safari, Singapore: Take your Wildlife Fantasies to a New High!!

The Night Safari, opened in 1994, is one of the best tourist attractions in Singapore and attracts more than a million visitors every year. Here, one gets the chance to see around 2,500 wild animals in wonderfully simulated natural habitats. Guided safari tours are offered in the night, promising visitors a peep into the world of some of the planet’s most fascinating wild animals.

Night Safari by Greg Walters/ CC BY

Night Safari by Greg Walters/ CC BY

Attractions

Perhaps, the biggest attraction here is the guided tram ride that takes tourists to 7 different artificially created geographical zones of the world, including the rugged foothills of the Himalayas and plains of Equatorial Africa. While traversing the varied landscapes and vegetations, you may spot an array of enchanting animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. The tram guide shares fascinating facts about the landscapes and wildlife of different geographies. Besides spotting and admiring the unique wildlife, you may enjoy a meal in a traditional village ambiance at their Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant. The thrilling Thumbuakar performances, entertaining animal shows, and adventure-packed walking trails are some of the other attractions.

Night Safari by Alexander Baxevanis/ CC BY

Night Safari by Alexander Baxevanis/ CC BY

Opening Hours and Tickets

Night Safari is open every day of the year and the timings are 7:30pm-12:00pm. The first ‘Creatures of the Night Show’ begins at 7:30pm. Ticket prices, as shown on their official website, are 42 SGD for adults and 28SGD for children. Admission for kids less than 3 years of age is free of cost. Admission fee usually covers entry to the park and a tram ride.

Night Safari by Allie_Caulfield/ CC BY

Night Safari by Allie_Caulfield/ CC BY

Useful Tips

•    Don’t forget to apply mosquito repellent to protect your skin from mosquitoes and other insects.
•    Wear comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to explore the walking trails.
•    Don’t share your food with animals. It’s strictly prohibited.
•    Maintain an adequate distance from the animals. Be with your group while trekking across the trails.

Three Fascinating Experiences for Adrenaline Junkies in the Himalayas, India

himalayaaaPlanning an adventure holiday?

himalayaaSeeking a real encounter with nature? Perhaps, there is no better place than the Himalayas in India. Be it, trekking to explore its pristine mountainous beauty, rafting on the gushing white waters, or camping to experience nature and local cultures – this mighty mountain range offers extraordinary experiences for all. We have handpicked some enthralling excursions that tourists can enjoy in the Himalayas.

Trekking

himalayaTrekking is perhaps the best way to discover the Himalayan Mountains at their pristine best. The region features scores of trekking trails that promise a great experience. One of the most popular treks is the one to the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by lofty hills, the valley is renowned for its exotic fauna and flora, particularly the endemic alpine flowers. The unique topography and high altitude desert in Ladakh also make it a haven for trekking enthusiasts.

White Water Rafting

The experience of rafting in the untamed rivers of the Himalayas is truly exhilarating. Rishikesh is one of the most popular places for rafting in India. Here, the River Ganges has several rapids that delight rafting-enthusiasts of all abilities. Sangam in Ladakh, where the river Zanskar and Indus confluence, also draws adventurers from far and wide. The Zanskar gorge is simply gorgeous, and rafting in the river is the best way to experience the beauty of the region.

Mountain Biking

Soothing breeze, sunny skies, and breathtaking views of mountains, valleys and waterfalls – biking in the Himalayas is an experience of a lifetime. You can choose from a number of exciting routes and untouched terrain that this part of the Himalayas boasts. The Manali-Ladakh route is one of the most popular biking routes in India. The one from Thakurdwara to Ramnagar on the outskirts of Corbett Park is perfect to explore the rugged beauty of the Garhwal region. Foreign tourists can easily hire bikes or just sign up with one of the many companies that conduct such tours.

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Hurry up! Our cashback deals are available for a limited duration. Cashback rewards on booking of long haul and short haul flights are available only until 30th April 2015. Cashback deals on hotels, and package holidays (hotel + flight) are also available for a limited period only.

Enchanting Hill Stations in the Lap of the Western Ghats, India

The mighty Western Ghats in India packs in an array of natural wonders, including many picturesque hill stations that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With summers round the corner, many of you would probably want to plan a trip to these places. Well, here’s our pick of some of the best of such hill getaways in the Western Ghats.

Ooty

ootyOoty, a picturesque hill station in the Nilgiri Mountains, exudes a cool, pristine aura. This peaceful destination is surrounded by lofty hills, covered with tea plantations and lush forests. Numerous trekking trails through lush tracts of wilderness make it a heaven for adventure freaks, especially trekking enthusiasts. Furthermore, the cycling trails along the forested roads and lush tea and coffee estates provide a refreshing break from the madness of city life. This charming hill station also boasts beautiful lakes, gardens, and viewpoints.

Munnar

munnarThis peaceful hill town, located in Kerala’s Idukki District, is perfect for holidaymakers craving serenity in the lap of the nature. Its captivating tea plantations, romantic viewpoints, lovely lakes and waterfalls, and interesting floral life promise a memorable holiday experience. Wildlife enthusiasts are in for a treat as Munnar is near Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, a couple of famous wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala.

Vythiri

This hilly hamlet is a hidden gem compared to its more famous neighbour, Munnar. The fresh air and untamed wilderness of Vythiri is the perfect antidote for the ones suffering from the chaos of city life. Take in the breathtaking views of the Karalad Lake, which is also a great place for angling and boating. For bird watching and kayaking, head to Pookat Lake. A freshwater aquarium and spice emporium near Pookat Lake are other attractions here. The ones who are up for an adventure may trek to the hills of the Vythiri region or go on wildlife tours to the nearby Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Kodaikanal

This small hill station in Tamil Nadu is packed full of attractions and remains one of the most popular of tourist destination in South India. Enjoy spectacular views of the mist-clad valleys, visit the nearby lakes, waterfalls and tea plantations, or go on arduous treks – you have plenty of things to do and see here. The cool climate of Kodaikanal makes it a perfect choice for romantic couples and families alike. Some not-to-be-missed attractions here include Kodaikanal Lake, Bryant Park, Bear Shola Falls, the infamous Guna Caves, and Coaker’s Walk.

Holidays in New York: Three Interesting Events in May 2015

new-yorkWhenever you visit the New York City, it is highly likely that you would find some event or festival going on here. The month of May is no exception. Check out these popular events lined up for May 2015.

Columbia University Film Festival

This popular annual film festival is scheduled from 01st to 07th May at Columbia University School of Arts and Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Into its 28th year now, the Columbia University Film Festival will premiere several short films and also host teleplays and screenplays. On the final night i.e., 07th of May, the jury will announce the names of winners.

Queens New Music Festival

The borough of Queens is ready to rock New York from 13th to 17th May with its gala annual event, Queens New Music Festival (QNMF). The first gig will be held at Church-in-the-Gardens, whereas the Secret Theatre will host the rest of the performances. QNMF aims to promote the local talent of Queens. Musicians and composers from this borough and other parts of New York get an opportunity to establish a fan base. On the other hand, tourists get a chance to appreciate the talent of budding artists. This year, do consider catching up on the performances of Ensemble 365, Iktus Percussion and Eco-Music Big Band.

NYC Craft Beer Festival

Beer lovers planning a visit to New York during May ought to add this festival to their itineraries. The Hand Crafted Tasting Company is hosting this three day festival (28th to 30th May) at Pier 15. During these three days, you will get the chance to taste a variety of craft beers, while admiring the scintillating views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The festival will kick-off with the Brewmaster’s Connoisseur Experience at 7 pm. On the following day, 29th May, you can participate in two sessions, whereas the third and final day has as many as three sessions.

Some Not-to-be-missed Attractions in Hawke’s Bay. New Zealand

Gone are the days of Hawke’s Bay being passed off as just another colonial province; the destination has now become one of the most sought after weekend getaways in New Zealand. While the award-winning wineries here are the show stoppers now, other attractions such as picturesque beaches, fabulous art deco architecture, and discerning culinary culture offer loads of delightful distractions. Located on the East Coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Hawke’s Bay welcomes you with a fascinating blend of nature, history, and culture. Here is a quick guide on some must-do activities in the region.

Hawke’s Bay by itravelNZ®/ CC BY

Hawke’s Bay by itravelNZ®/ CC BY

Explore Art Deco Napier

No visit to Hawke’s Bay is complete without admiring Napier’s exquisite art deco architecture. So striking is the design and look of the city’s buildings that even the ones who have no inertest in architecture are impressed. Head to the Art Deco Centre to see some of these spectacular buildings! The architectural marvels found in the CBD and around Marine Parade are also worth exploring.

Biking Tour to the Nearby Vineyards

Wine enthusiasts would be glad to know that the Hawke’s Bay is home to over 70 vineyards, many of which are nationally acclaimed. Rent a bike and paddle your way to some of these award-winning wineries. Mission Estate is one of the local favourites and also among the oldest wineries in New Zealand. Apart from their excellent wines and overall hospitality, you will be awed by the gorgeous views en route. The Gimblett Gravels and the Ngatarawa Triangle, two neighbouring wine regions, are other favourite biking destinations.

Beach Hopping

The coastal beauty of Hawke’s Bay is rare and timeless. The 360 km long coastline here boasts a variety of beaches that appeal to one and all. Some are serene and secluded, while others are crowded with locals and tourists. Waimarama Beach is a popular coastal resort, famous for its gorgeous beauty. Waipatiki Beach is another picturesque venue that attracts tourists with its lively settlement of native bush and a vast stretch of soft sands. Ocean Beach is relatively less developed and is popular among surfing enthusiasts as well as couples.

Drink and Dine to Your heart’s Content

Hawke’s Bay’s dining and clubbing scene is also impressive. Head to the West Quay, and you’ll be baffled with the choice of swanky bars, clubs, and restaurants, serving excellent local fare along with a wide selection of wines. Napier is also considered a party town, with its eclectic array of dining and drinking avenues. Some popular places to quench your thirst here are the Gintrap, Thirsty Whale, and Emporium.

Top Attractions to Add to Your Nassau Itineraries

bahamasNassau, the capital city of the Bahamas, often serves as the starting point of one’s holiday in this island nation. While beaches are the most prominent highlight of the city, the magnificence of Nassau goes beyond the sun, sand, and the surf. Read on to know about the beaches and other popular attractions that promise a memorable holiday in the city.

Clifton Heritage National Park

The Clifton Heritage National Park boasts rich history and an abundance of natural beauty. With an area of 156 acres, this is the largest ecological and leisure park in the Bahamas. The park is dotted with artistic wooden sculptures and the ruins of the prehistoric Lucayan Indian village. Jaws Beach and Rocky Beach offer quiet moments away from the bustle of city life. The walk over the Stone Steps here is a lovely way to peep into the intriguing past of the Bahamas.

Cabbage Beach

bahamas-beachNassau is home to numerous beaches but Cabbage Beach is perhaps the most prominent one. Located on Paradise Island, the Cabbage Beach is a 2 km stretch of soft white sands dotted with swish hotels and resorts managed by world-renowned hospitality brands.

bahamas-beachhBook your stay at Hotel Riu Palace, Atlantis, or One&Only Ocean Club to experience the luxurious vibe of Nassau. The beach is also flanked by Australian pines, sea grapes, and palms. During weekends, it becomes a hot spot among locals and tourists, alike.

Dolphin Encounters

In Nassau, you will get several opportunities to spend joy-filled moments with various marine creatures. Hire a boat from Nassau to Blue Lagoon for an exciting day at Dolphin Encounters. Be a part of lovely shows like Dolphin Swim and Dolphin Encounter to swim with Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins.  Besides, you can also touch and feed the dolphins. Also, make sure you buy tickets for Sea Lion Encounter tours in the warm waters of Blue Lagoon.

Three Exciting and Popular Attractions of Panama City

Panama City, with its beautiful coral atolls, museums, parks, zoos and colourful neighbourhoods, makes for a delightful tourist getaway. The many attractions here can often confound visitors, making it hard for them to decide what to see and what to do. We thought about short-listing top three of the all-time favourite attractions in the city. Here, check out these attractions.

Panama City by Matthew Straubmuller/ CC BY

Panama City by Matthew Straubmuller/ CC BY

Panama Canal

Panama Canal by Lyn Gateley/ CC BY

Panama Canal by Lyn Gateley/ CC BY

An epic man-made marvel, Panama Canal is undoubtedly Panama City’s most fascinating and popular tourist attraction. This 80-kilometre ship canal connects the Atlantic Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean. The best way to explore the diversified beauty of this canal is to go on a cruise here. Miraflores Visitors Centre is an interesting attraction of the canal that houses four giant halls. Each of these halls showcases artefacts from the canal’s construction days and also its marine ecology. A nearby restaurant serves delicious snacks and offers excellent views of the canal.

Summit Botanical Gardens and Zoo

Situated in the Soberania National Park (20 minutes from downtown Panama City), the Summit Botanical Gardens and Zoo is home to over 15,000 plant species and a diverse wildlife. The popular wildlife attractions of the zoo, such as jaguars, tapirs, monkeys and scarlet macaws, are housed in their recreated natural habitats. The zoo’s most prized exhibit is the Harpy Eagle – world’s largest bird of prey. Summit is another highly popular attraction that’s loved for its remarkable collection of palm trees.

Religious Colonial Art Museum

Dating back to the 18th century, the Religious Colonial Art Museum is located in the former St. Dominic of Guzman’s Chapel. The museum houses an interesting array of colonial-era artefacts such as paintings, sculptures, and sacred relics finely crafted from bone and silver. The marvellous gold altar remains the star highlight of this popular art museum. Temporary exhibits are also displayed, and some of the most famous ones so far have been the Jesus Resuscitated, Pelican, and the Virgin of Perpetual Aid. Besides the exhibits, the old building in itself is of great architectural and historical interest.

Top Shopping Malls in Singapore for an Exotic Retail Therapy

singaporeEnjoy a huge range of lifestyle offerings at some of Singapore’s most famous shopping malls. These properties are not just popular with shopaholics, but also draw hordes of movie buffs and foodies. After all, few can resist the charm of numerous upscale stores, cinema halls, and eateries under one roof. Check out our list of some of the most prominent shopping malls in Singapore.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

This sprawling 800,000-square-feet luxury mall is an excellent retail and dining retreat. You can experience a refreshing mix of international luxury brands and emerging labels. The Shoppes is home to numerous celebrated brands including Chanel, Gucci, Burberry, Cartier, Dior, Guess, Miss Sixty and Banana Republic. If hunger pangs set in, head to the leading celebrity-owned restaurants here such as Wolfgang Puck, Mario Batali and Guy Savoy.

Suntec City

Designed with great focus on feng shui, Suntec City symbolizes harmony among the various races in Singapore. This 830,000-square-feet property is segregated into four distinct zones, each showcasing its own character. Suntec City features 150 luxury stores, ranging from exclusive boutiques to international chains. The mall is even home to five soaring office towers and an international convention and exhibition centre. As far as the food goes, prepare to get spoilt for choice by more than 50 big and small restaurants that promise a gratifying dining experience.

Mandarin Gallery

The Mandarin Gallery of Singapore, with its perfect blend of aesthetics and elegance, presents an exclusive shopping experience, which is hard to find elsewhere. The ground level of this boutique style mall lures shoppers with high-end brands like Vertu, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Mulberry and Montblanc. The upper floor is stocked with products from Hansel and a few other local fashion labels. Mandarin Gallery also features restaurants such as Wild Honey, Jones the Grocer, and the immensely popular and usually crowded, Ippudo Ramen.

VivoCity

One of the largest shopping malls in Singapore, VivoCity is a one-stop solution for all your cravings for entertainment and shopping. The convenient location (near the Sentosa Island) makes it a beautiful place for a relaxed and fun-filled shopping experience. The property is also home to an open-air playground for the young ones, and a rooftop amphitheatre. There are many bars and restaurants, including open-air dining along the promenade and a large hawker centre-style food court.

Five Reasons You Should Visit Munnar, the Heart of God’s Own Country!

munnarMention Kerala and most people think of the tranquil charm of its backwaters and the secluded beaches along the Arabian Sea. True, but India’s southernmost state also has a lot more to enthrall you: the fabulous seafood, a rich cultural heritage, and not to mention, the stunning beautiful hill stations in the Western Ghats. One such hill station in Kerala is Munnar, which is truly the heart of God’s Own Country. In Munnar, a fascinating mix of nature, history and adventure allures holidaymakers from far and wide. Here is a look at some not-to-be-missed attractions in Munnar.

Tea Plantations

If you like tea, you will love Munnar. The rolling hills that surround the town are replete with tea plantations that make for a sight to behold. The lush greenery and the aromatic cool breeze rejuvenate one’s mind, body and soul. Besides, there is a tea museum in Munnar, which chronicles the growth of tea industry in the region. Visitors to the museum can also learn the process of tea making.

Attukad Waterfalls

Located about 9kms from Munnar, this scenic waterfall is best explored during or after the monsoon season. It’s a nice place to spend some peaceful moments in the lap of nature. The lush forests that surround the waterfall boast an enchanting variety of flora & fauna.

Blossom International Park

This fantastically manicured park is spread over an area of 16 acres and is dotted with beautiful patches of flowers and plants, water bodies, tree houses, ropeways and playgrounds. It is about 3 km from Munnar and is a famous tourist attraction of the area. The park is home to many rare species of flowers and plants. Facilities for activities such as boating, cycling and roller-skating are also available at the venue.

Exciting Treks

Lofty hills and thick forests around Munnar make the destination a trekker’s paradise. Choose any of the trekking trails that lead to Kodaikanal. Top Station, about 35 km from Munnar, is an ideal point to start the excursion. Making their way through the hilly terrains and thick forests, trekkers come across spectacular sceneries of tea plantations, gushing waterfalls and tranquil lakes. Wildlife enthusiasts would be glad to know that the famous Chinar Wildlife Sanctuary is just about 50kms from Munnar.

Echo Point

As the name suggests, this is a place, where you can hear the echoes of your voice. Surrounded by lush green hills, very close to the Matupatty Dam and Kundala Lake, Echo Point is a photographer’s dream destination! Take a walk up the lush trails of the nearby hills, try boating in Kundala Lake, or just enjoy the scenery and serenity – Echo Point is definitely worth a visit during your holiday to Munnar.