Category Archives: Far East

Three Must-visit Historical and Cultural Attractions in Cebu, Philippines

Cebu is one of the most popular cities and the centre of trade and commerce in Visayas, Philippines. Unlike Manila, Cebu is not so crowded, yet it has all amenities and facilities.

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The destination is full of ancient historical monuments and its culture has largely remained intact over the course of time. If you are planning to catch a flight to this delightful destination, take a look at 3 of the top cultural and historical attractions here.

Fort San Pedro

Fort San Pedro, also known as Fuerza de San Pedro gives you a glimpse into the rich past of Cebu. Built by the Spanish under the command of Miguel López de Legazpi in 1565, the fort stands as a reminder of the Spanish influence in the city. Situated in Plaza Indepedencia, it is the oldest and the smallest fort in the Philippines. By paying a small fee for the entry tickets, you can gain some insight into the way of life under Spanish influence. The fort is triangular and consists of 3 bastions known as San Miguel, San Ignacio de Loyola and La Concepcion.

Basilica del Santo Niño

A few minutes’ walk from the fort will take you to Basilica del Santo Niño also known as Santo Niño Church and Minor Basilica of the Holy Child. Known as the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, it is said to have been built on the exact spot where the revered image of Santo Niño de Cebu was discovered in 1565 under the command of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi.  The Catholic devotees often call the church, the “Mother and Head of all Churches in the Philippines”.

The Taoist Temple

The Taoist Temple, situated in the Beverly Hills Subdivision is built at an elevation of 300 metres above sea level. It is a soaring, vibrant and multi-storeyed monument.

The-Taoist-Temple

Built in 1972 by the Chinese community of Cebu, it is the centre of worship for the followers of Taoism. It’s religious significance, beautiful architecture with vibrant setting and a dragon in the front makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cebu City. The front entrance of the temple has been modelled on the Great Wall of China. You can make a wish and flip a coin in the wishing well here, read more about Taoism in their library and buy souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones from the souvenir shop located inside.

Get Mesmerised at ZoukOut, 2015 Singapore

ZoukOut, one of the biggest annual music and dance festivals in Asia is attended by people from all over the globe. If you love upbeat music, dance, beaches, and partying, this is the place to be. Renowned DJs from all around the world play mesmerising tracks.

ZoukOut-Singapore

After all, the motto of the event is “One World, One Music, One Tribe, One Dance.” If all this sounds interesting, go ahead and book your tickets for the event and get ready to fly to Singapore. You can also buy tickets in bulk if you are planning to attend the event with your friends.

Location

ZoukOut Festival will commence from 8 PM at Sentosa Island’s Silso Beach on 11th December. The festival will have a wide range of both international and local performances which will run until 5 AM next morning. This makes it the only “sunrise beach festival” in Asia, set up by Zouk Singapore, the best club in Asia and the 7th best in the world. You will get a unique opportunity to watch the sun come up with other attendees, and you will come back again in the evening for another round!

Local and International Performers

ZoukOut presents a number of upcoming as well as established DJs from Singapore and various other parts of Asia. Several of the local DJs attending the event are hot favourites at the best of clubs in Singapore. Some of these performers include Andrew Tang, Above & Beyond, Jeremy Boon, R3HAB, DJ Snake and Skrillex. They have been performing in the festival and are geared up for the event with their best soundtracks. The unique style of Damian Lazarus and groovy electro music by Nicky Romero, Dannic and Nina Kravitz will make the crowd dance to their tunes.

Other attractions

When you are not attending the event, you can get familiar with the beautiful Sentosa Island in a unique way. The festival allows you ample time to experience thrilling rides, attractions and other cultural aspects of the island. Some of the places that you may wander to during the daytime are Fort Siloso, Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon and Sentosa 4D AdventureLand to name a few. If you are a film-buff, you may also want to visit the Universal Studios Singapore.

Five Popular Restaurants in Hua Hin, Thailand

Hua Hin has been one of the most stylish and romantic holiday destinations for more than a hundred years. After all, even the members of the Royal Family spent their summer holidays here.

sea-food-thailandWhile Hua Hin has many claims to fame, food remains an intrinsic part of its identity. The chic restaurants provide some of the best dining experiences and most of them specialise in seafood. We recommend 5 popular restaurants to taste some of the most unique flavours in town.

You Yen Hua Hin Balcony

Nestled amidst landscaped gardens offering stunning views of the sea, You Yen Hua Hin Balcony will take you back in time.  Set in a renovated traditional wooden Thai house of the 1920s, this beachfront restaurant boasts an amazing al fresco dining space. The restaurant specialises in local Thai dishes and a combination of various snacks, including Thai salads and the spicy tom yam.

Saeng Thai Seafood

Saeng Thai Seafood, located at a short drive from the fishing pier, offers stunning views of the ocean and has an open-air style of architecture. This pocket friendly place is highly popular among visitors who don’t have much to splurge on after paying for their hotel bookings, flight tickets and other travel expenses. The interior of the restaurant is simple yet pleasant. The menu is extensive and features seafood and lots of other delectable dishes.

Let’s Sea Pub & Restaurant

Let’s Sea Pub and Restaurant, part of a fabulous al fresco resort by the same name, offers its customers a beautiful ambiance along with a vast choice of food, which combines international flavours with the contemporary Thai cuisine. A specialty dish here is sautéed big clams with white wine sauce, lobster gratin and soft shell crab som tam. The Breeze Bar offers a wide array of alcoholic as well as non-alcoholic beverages.

Orchids

Situated near the Hilton Hua Him on the beach stretch, Orchids specialises in the fusion of French and Thai cuisines. With an assorted selection of grilled meat, seafood, steak and more from the food menu and a wide collection of wines, beers, cocktails, and other alcoholic beverages, Orchids endears itself to one and all. Food is prepared with utmost attention to quality and fresh ingredients from organic produce are used. The interiors include traditional Thai art decorations on the walls and stained glass windows.

Jim Daeng

This fabulous place is situated on the Pranburi intersection. The eatery specialises in seafood and traditional Thai dishes made from local organic and natural ingredients. Jim Daeng is especially popular for the full-bodied flavour of the sauces that are prepared and seasoned with local spices and herbs. Some of their most celebrated dishes are grilled tiger prawns, deep-friend fish cake, and stir-fried clams with thick chilli sauce and fish som tam.

Highlights of Thailand’s Loy Krathong Festival 2015

Thailand’s charms are many. Besides its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and wonderful food, Thailand is also a land of numerous entertaining festivals.

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These festivals not only help the country in preserving its ancient traditions, but also attract a large number of foreign tourists. One such festival that attracts tourists in large numbers is the Loy Krathong Festival which is celebrated to pay respects to Lord Buddha. This year the festival will be held from 24th-26th November throughout the country, and will involve everything from boat races to lantern processions and beauty contests. Here’s shedding some light on the major highlights of this year’s festival.

Releasing Floating Lanterns into the River

One ritual that is performed every year is releasing floating lanterns in rivers, lakes and the sea. While some perform this ritual in the belief that it would cleanse their sins, others do this to honour the goddess of water for the year’s agricultural produce. Whatever the reason be, this ritual is performed by most people.

Exciting Boat Races & Fireworks Display

Exciting boat races are held throughout the country during the Loy Krathong Festival. River Ping is where you can catch some of the most exciting races. The prizes are big and the atmosphere is full of fun, so entertainment is guaranteed. The event is signed-off with an extravagant fireworks display.

Grand Krathong Parade

One of the most high profile events of the festival is the Grand Krathong Parade that starts from Thapae Gate and ends at the Chiang Mai Municipality Office. The event is also covered extensively by the media and this adds zing to the whole scenario.

Contests, contests, contests!

The festival organizers also make sure that there are lots of contests including hot-air balloon contest, beauty contest, handmade Krathong contest and many more. The basic idea is to make the festival entertaining for young crowds, something that the festival has successfully achieved in the past few years.

Thailand is a year-round tourist destination, and come November the hotel and flight prices go sky-high. So make all your bookings in advance, and if possible join the festivities along with the locals as that’s the best way to gain insights into the festival.

Murfest 2015 – The Biggest Wellness Festival in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is often associated with splendid nightlife and world class shopping. If you visit this metropolis in November 2015, you will also get the opportunity to explore another side of the city at Murfest, the Malaysian Urban Retreat Festival.

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Be a part of this festival to celebrate the best of yoga, wellness, dance and music. The Hotel Pullman Kuala Lumpur Bangsar is going to host this lively festival from 13th to 15th November. Into its second year, Murfest 2015 is sure to attract locals as well as international travellers with its musical acts, yoga sessions, exhibitions and much more.  Let’s check out major highlights of this Malaysian festival.

Forrest Yoga

Murfest 2015 will kick off with this session. Attend this session to decompress your lower back while creating space in the spine. Sounds crazy? Well, it won’t when Cindy Lee will teach various asanas and exercises at Forrest Yoga on 13th November at 10 am.

Thinking with Ink

This session will be held on 13th and 14th November at 10 am and 8am. At this art therapy class hosted by Melanie Bayoud, you can unleash your inner creativity while building confidence and learning some stress relief techniques.

Hula Hoop Dance

Hula hoop dance is not everybody’s cup of tea but you can learn the basics of this fun exercise at the Hula Hoop Dance sessions of Michelle Hoops. Be a part of this occasion to learn about a range of hula hoop tricks. This event is scheduled on 14th and 15th November at 4pm and 10:30am. Hula Hoop Dance sessions are open for people of all ages.

Urbanite Concert

Urbanite Concert is a must for the fans of world music. Grand Ballroom Hotel Pullman Bangsar will host this concert on 13th November. Buy tickets for the concert and reach the hotel by 6pm to enjoy performances by renowned artists and bands such as Flame of the Forest, Aseana Percussion Unit, Nading Rhapsody and DEBU.

Masala Bhangra Dance Workout

This lifestyle program is based on Bollywood styles and the Indian dance form of Bhangra. Attend this high energy session hosted by Shalini Bhargava to learn a few dance steps and stay physically active. Masala Bhangra Dance Workout will be held on 13th, 14th and 15th November at 1:30pm, 4:00pm and 10:30am.

Popular Dining Spots at the 3 Terminals of Changi Airport, Singapore

TERMINAL 1

Peach Garden Noodle House

Peach Garden Noodle House is one of the most popular food-chains which specialize in Cantonese cuisine. Situated inside the departure transit mall on level 3, the Peach Garden Noodle House serves delicious portions of soups, dim sums, noodles and desserts among others.

Singapore

One of the best aspects of the restaurant is the staff, which offers excellent service. We would recommend the fresh prawn dumpling with noodles. It is simply wonderful.

Ruyi

Ruyi, situated in the departure check-in hall of the public area, is an establishment which serves delicious Chinese fast food. Their specialty dish, the hands-free fried rice, is prepared with eggs, rice, shrimps, oil, barbecued pork, spring onions, diced carrots and a special sauce. You can watch it being cooked here. Ruyi’s menu offers 30 delicious dishes to choose from, and all the food ingredients are weighed in correct proportions. Ruyi provides perfectly filling meals that you will love to have before catching your flight and the food is worth every penny. It is open 24 hours a day throughout the week.

TERMINAL 2

Chinta Manis

Chinta Manis is a Peranakan patisserie which is famous for its kueh-kueh with a modern touch. The ambiance at Chinta Manis is warm and homely and to top it all, they also serve home-made food! The pastry chef, who was previously employed by the Sultan of Brunei, makes handmade kuehs everyday. Some of the best selling items at Chinta Manis are dried mee siam, chendol kueh and ondeh-ondeh.

TERMINAL 3

Gurney Drive Restaurant

Penang food without having to leave the airport

Gurney Drive Restaurant, located on level 3, in the viewing mall, is a ‘hawker food dining place’. It is perfect for a quick bite with a number of different options such as fish cake and the famous kway teow. You can also order refreshing ampala juice, a clatter, or a glass of coke with your meal.

Singapore River Festival – a Fun-packed Event in Singapore

Singapore, well known for its rich culture, hosts several events and festivals during the last quarter of the year. If you are visiting this colourful metropolis in late-October, you can check out several exciting annual events. For instance, Singapore River Festival is one such gala event.

singapore

The 2015 edition of the event is scheduled from 23rd to 25th October at Robertson Quay, Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. There will be plenty of delicious food, live performances, and art exhibitions. Let’s check what all you can enjoy and experience at Singapore River Festival.

Headline Act – La Fura Dels Baus

This is the main event of the festival. There will be spectacular performances by La Fura dels Baus, a Spanish Theatrical Group, which promises a spellbinding experience. The Spanish group is popular for its musical opera, film and theatre productions. The act will take place on 23rd and 24th October at Riverside Point, Clarke Quay. At this show, La Fura dels Baus is going to pay tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Singapore.

Riverside Makers Market

On 24th and 25th October, this market will be set up at Robertson Quay between 5pm and 10pm. Visit this marketplace to enjoy locally made food and beverages. Also, you can buy a range of crafts. Entry to the market is free but you will have to buy tickets to attend workshops. The General Company is going to arrange the craft making workshops. Live Music is another highlight of this market. Local artists and bands such as Cheating Sons, L.A.B., and Steve McQueens will rock the stage with their powerful live performances.

SR Signatures

Handpicked by a panel of critics, SR Signatures is a collection of establishments that dish out some of the best of food along the Boat, Clarke, and Quays. Kobe Beef Hot Stone, 12-Hour Braised Lamb Shank and Avocado Chicken Parmigiana are among the most popular dishes to be sampled. Overall, there will be as many as 40 fabulous dishes out there for you. Besides, there will be a slew of special promotions and discounts.

Asian Cities Dominate the MasterCard Index for Global Destinations

Asian cities have dominated the annual MasterCard Global Destinations Cities Index, taking up as many as five spots in the list of top 10 destinations for international travel.

Asian Cities

Bangkok has again emerged as Asia’s most visited destination, with 18.24 million overnight travellers expected to visit the city in 2015. Overall, the Thai capital is ranked number two, right behind the top-placed London. Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul and Hong Kong have been ranked at seventh, eighth, ninth and 10th spot respectively. Paris, Dubai, and Istanbul are the remaining three cities in the top 10.

At the top of the heap, the English capital is projected to receive 18.82 million international visitors in 2015. London and Bangkok have taken the top two spots in the Index for the last five years.

New York was the top North American city in projected overnight visitors, and sixth in the world. However, the Big Apple, with $17.37 billion, is number two in the world when it comes to projected international visitor spending. London, at $20.23 billion, tops the list in regards to tourist spending.

The Global Destinations Cities Index ranks 132 of the most visited cities in the world. The cities are ranked in terms of total international overnight visitor arrivals and the cross-border spending.

Top Fastest Growing Cities in the World

Among the world’s top 10 fastest growing travel destinations, seven are in Asia. Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo, with an incredible 21% surge, is number one on the list. Chengdu, the capital of China’s Sichuan province, follows in second. Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE, is placed third in terms of fastest growth, while Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is at the fifth position.

Lima, Peru, is the fastest growing city in South America and is ranked ninth, globally. Houston is the fastest growing city in North America.

Top Spots to Satiate your Thirst for Shopping in Singapore

When in Singapore, shopping is almost irresistible. Brimming with world-class malls, lively markets, and independent boutiques, the island nation is a Mecca for shopaholics.

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After all, shopping is Singapore’s national pastime. With so many options available, you must be wondering where to go to quench your thirst for shopping. To help you out, here is our guide to the top shopping spots in Singapore.

Orchard Road

Myriad shopping venues, great deals & discounts, and a festive vibe – this 2.2km shopping boulevard has all this and much more. Most of the malls and shopping venues here are interconnected by underground tunnels, promising an endless and delightful shopping experience. With shopping spots like the Orchard Store, Plaza Singapura, and ION Orchard, and an eclectic array of bars, food joints and entertainment venues, Orchard Road will charm you in myriad ways.

Haji Lane

When it comes to a vintage shopping experience in Singapore, there is hardly a better place than Haji Lane. This narrow alley in Kampong Glam is lined, on either side, with glittering boutiques selling a wide array of local items at reasonable prices. Some of the great buys here include winter-wear, accessories, handicrafts and household items. The place is also famous for its dining spots. Here, you can find a range of restaurants and street hawkers serving local and inter-continental delicacies. Some of the popular shopping stores here are Dulcetfig, Loft, Soon Lee, and Rusty Button.

Mustafa Centre, Little India

At Mustafa Centre, you can shop any time, even in the wee hours of the morning. Open round the clock and selling everything from ethnic jewellery and handicrafts to modern clothing and the latest electronics, Mustafa Centre is indeed one of the best shopping sites in Singapore. During daytime, the place is often overcrowded. So if you want to avoid the chaos and crowds, visit early in the morning or late at night.

Chinatown

If you are hunting for a good bargain, Singapore’s Chinatown won’t disappoint you. The market here is a treasure trove of souvenirs, spices, cheap clothes, jewellery and made-in-China gadgets. Of course, haggling is the key to crack a good deal. However, be polite and don’t argue with shopkeepers.

Top 5 Cultural Attractions in Singapore

Singapore is a hot tourist destination for several reasons. Located in Southeast Asia, it is one of the four financial giants of Asia and has maintained its position as a premium tourist destination for many decades. The country is a cultural melting pot of three major ethnic races, namely Malays, Indians and Chinese. The destination is a unique blend of culture and traditions and yet has almost all the state-of-the-art amenities because of its developed infrastructure. Take a look at five of the top cultural attractions in Singapore.

Thian Hock Keng Temple

Thian Hock Keng Temple is considered to be the oldest and one of the most the respected places in Singapore.

Thian Hock Keng Temple by Pablo Sanchez/ CC BY

Thian Hock Keng Temple by Pablo Sanchez/ CC BY

Located in Telok Ayer Street, Thian Hock Keng was established in 1822 and is divided into two chambers. The main chamber is devoted to the Taoist goddess of the sea, Mazu while the other chamber is dedicated to Kuan Yin, the enlightened Bodhisattva of mercy. In 1973, it was recognized as a national monument and since then this place has become a highly popular tourist attraction.

Niu Che Shui (Chinatown)

Chinatown, also known as Niu Che Shui, is one of the most lively and vibrant neighbourhoods in Singapore. The whole area has a distinctive charm, which makes it one of the most popular destinations in Singapore. The enclave is located in the Outram district. It retains cultural and historical traditions and celebrates some of the most colourful festivals in town. Many culturally rich sections of Chinatown have been declared as national heritage sites by the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

Mosque Hajjah Fatima

Mosque Hajjah Fatima is one of the largest mosques in Singapore and one of the few mosques in the world to be named after a woman.  Built in 1846, Hajjah Fatima Mosque is surrounded by high rise buildings and is located on the way to the beach. It is a lovely example of medieval architecture in Singapore.

The Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple, apart from being very popular, is the oldest Hindu temple of Singapore.

The Sri Mariamman Temple by alantankenghoe/ CC BY

The Sri Mariamman Temple by alantankenghoe/ CC BY

Located in South Bridge Road, near Chinatown; Sri Mariamman Temple is a South Indian temple. Founded in 1827, it is one of the most important national monuments of Singapore and a great place to see the rich art and culture of India.

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, apart from being a Buddhist temple also serves as museum. Located in the heart of Chinatown, it is an incredible example of the Tang Dynasty architecture (Chinese). Established in 2002, this impressive temple is unlike most of the other temples of Singapore. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is home to some great ancient relics related to Buddhism.