Here’s A Look At Funan’s New Revamped Look – And It Is Cool AF!

If you’re really into technology or if you’ve gotten replacements for your electronic gadgets over the years you would have stepped into Funan DigitaLife Mall at least once. The mall which has been closed since June, is known for selling electronic gadgets and computers. The former IT mall will continue to be closed until 2019, where it will reopen its doors as a mixed-used complex. But lucky for us, we got a sneak peak at what the new Funan will look and IT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND.

The New Funan

Funan artist's impression 3_Bird's eye view (1)

At 887, 000 sq ft the new and improved Funan will house offices, serviced apartments and 6 floors chock full of retail stores.
For comparison, the nearby Raffles City stands at only 421,720 sq ft! If you think Funan is losing its roots as the one stop shop for IT you are sorely mistaken! Funan is implementing a tech experience to its customers. Targeting mobile customers, you can now pick up your purchases at the Funan concierge or even get it delivered!

According to Mr Lim Ming Yan President and Group CEO of CapitaLand Limited,

“With community, connectivity and convenience at its core, Funan will cater to the new breed of consumers who favour a collaborative environment and authentic experiences that reflect their passions and tastes.”

Inside

To support healthy living and an increasingly car-less society, Funan is gearing towards providing services for bicyclists! Bike shops and shower facilities are in the works, cyclists can now rejoice! YES to keeping fit AND smelling fresh on the go!

If you’re not a cyclist, do not fret! Golden Village is offering a multi-sensory experience in its new Funan home. (Does this mean 4D cinema experience?!) Kopitiam, another major tenant will be featuring robotic vacuum cleaners and self-ordering kiosks! And if that isn’t getting you excited, a 50-lane rock climbing wall that will span 4 floors is being erected by Climb Central!

Also Read: Orchard Central Is Home To UNIQLO’s Brand New 3 Storey Flagship Store!

6 Real Reasons Why We Secretly LOVE Changi Airport

Changi Airport has consistently topped the list of the ‘World’s Best Airport’, we’ve actually won this award for 4 consecutive years! Let’s be honest, this isn’t a surprise. Changi Airport is clean, comfortable, has great 24 hour eateries and being a Singapore product is (of course) efficient! While Changi Airport has great basic amenities it’s the other attractions that make our airport the best in the world. Here’s 5 reasons why Changi Airport is great for travellers and locals alike!

1. The Exhibitions

Honestly, I’ve been to a handful of airports across the world and I’m pretty sure Changi Airport might just be one of the rare airports where locals head over just for the fun of it. There are a probably a few reasons for that;

  1. The open layout; So while the airport may be crowded, you don’t feel overwhelmed.
  2. Don’t lie: You’ve spent late nights here cramming for exams.
  3. THE EXHIBITIONS.

One thing that non-travellers can enjoy when they’re at Changi Airport is the exhibitions. Changi seem to come up with a theme ever few weeks because every time I head down there to pick or send someone off there’s a new display up!

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A theme park in a mall, has been seen and done. But a rollercoaster in the airport? Now that’s something I have to see. The Great Adventure exhibit targeted children from everywhere around the world.  The exhibit has sand pits, stamps engraved with Chinese characters and of course the mini roller coaster!

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Star Wars(Image credit: Hobbit(Image credit: Winter Wonderland Kids(Image credit: Yahoo)

Christmas means huge Christmas trees, falling snow, Father Christmas and of course presents! Changi Airport held its own by erecting its own miniature castle!The kids were in for a treat with a glimpse of Santa Clause and falling (artificial) snow! Who needs crowded shopping malls when Changi Airport is already providing some Christmas cheer!

2. Charging Points

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If you’ve been crazy about Pokemon Go and are on the look out for Hotspots, look no further. Like many shopping malls and local attractions, Changi Airport has jumped on the bandwagon of making it a Singapore Pokemon Hotspot. Don’t just take my word for it, look at what a friend of mine caught in just 2 hours at Changi Terminal 1 and 3!

5. The Entertainment

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Flight delays and transits can be frustrating and boring. But at Changi Airport you might just be glad you get a few more hours to experience these entertainment attractions. There’s something here for any traveller whose bored out of their wits. You can head over to the movie theatre which shows up to date movies, if you’re more of a gaming buff you can head on over to the Entertainment Deck. This place is a Disneyland for anyone itching to get their hands on a gaming platform. Xbox Kinects and PS4s are filled with the most popular games. If you’re a fan of LAN gaming you’re in luck! Changi Airport has their own LAN gaming area!

6. The Giant Slide

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(image credit:Also Read: 6 Absolutely Beautiful Spots In Singapore That You Can Actually Dive In!

Dreaming Of Sandy Beaches From Your Office Cubicle? 2 Hours Is All You Need

One great thing about Singapore is, we’re strategically smacked between wonderful beaches. Yes, they may not be as well known as Hawaii or Maldives but if you’re desperately in need of a beach vacay, how about turning to our neighbours for a sweet escape?

We present you 6 beach getaways near Singapore for 6 types of beachgoers.

1. For the lazy bums – Bintan, Indonesia

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If you’re too lazy and desperately in need of a beach vacay (and Siloso is not an option), just head to Tanah Merah, hop on a ferry and take off to Bintan Island! Although it’s more like a stay-in-a-resort type of getaway, the ride to the island only takes an hour! And that’s what we call a hassle free vacay!

[caption id="attachment_13140" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image source: City Nomads Image source: City Nomads[/caption]

We highly recommend the white sandy Image source: beaches and islands Image source: Image source: Thousand Wonders Image source: Thousand Wonders[/caption] [caption id="attachment_13214" align="alignnone" width="900"]Image source: Bohemian Trails Image source: Image source: Expat Living Image source: Image source: Hayes & Jarvis Image source: Image source: Lomboksup Image source:  For the surfer dudes and dudettes, this is defo the place to go for some wave chasing.  We heard that surfers love the big waves at Bangko-Bangko (also known as Desert Point) and if surfing is not your thing, go snorkeling in the beautiful reefs of the Gili islands or even volcano exploring at Rinjani.

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Lombok is slowly catching up on their tourism so you might wanna visit them soon before it becomes the second Bali.

Getting there: Take a 2 hours and 15 mins direct flight to Lombok via Silk Air.

4. For the party people – Boracay, Philippines

Getting to Boracay might be a bit of a hassle but trust us, all the transits and waiting time will be worth it.

[caption id="attachment_13236" align="alignnone" width="999"]Image source: Wikipedia Image source: Wikipedia[/caption]

This paradise is divided into 5 areas and White Beach Station 1 is where most of the action takes place (read: swamped with tourist). If you go beyond that section, you’ll find turquoise like water with soft silky sand and a peaceful ambience. Boracay never sleeps, especially Station 1 and 2.

[caption id="attachment_13238" align="alignnone" width="878"]Image source: Travel Planner Image source: Image source: Express Miles Travel Image source: Image source: Traveldigg Image source:
for some heart thumping moments. And when they’ve had enough of the sun, head to Kuah town for some duty-free shopping.

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Getting there: Take a 1.5-hour direct flight to Langkawi via AirAsia.

6. For the honey-mooners: Batu Batu, Malaysia

Pulau Tengah may be a privately own island in Johor but there’s one resort on the island where bae and you can enjoy some private time on a paradise nestled between coconut groves, powder white sands and tropical breezes.

[caption id="attachment_13248" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image source: The Holiday Planning Guide Image source: has very limited accommodation so do plan your trip ahead. Especially if you’d like to catch the giant leatherback turtles who visit the shores yearly in July.

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Image source: Batu Batu Resort Image source: Batu Batu Resort[/caption]

Getting there: Take a 2-hour direct bus ride to Mersing (most buses leave from Golden Mile Complex near Lavender MRT), followed by an approx 20-minute speed boat ride arranged by the peeps of Batu Batu.

With 6 stunning beaches to choose from, who is excited for some fun under the sun? Time to start planning your annual leaves and make the bookings! Don’t forget to share these gorgeous beaches with your family and friends and everyone can go together.

Also, read Picturesque & Hidden Spots In Thailand You Must Discover Before They Get Crowded!

Orchard Central Is Home To UNIQLO’s Brand New 3 Storey Flagship Store!

If you’ve been on any social media platforms today, you would know that UNIQLO is opening its first South-east Asian global flagship store tomorrow (Friday, Sept 2) at Orchard Central. This flagship outlet will be the 25th UNIQLO store in Singapore. It joins the ranks of flagship stores worldwide, like the 6 story outlet in China!

Here are a few reasons why you should be waiting in line when it opens its doors tomorrow!

1. It’s HUGE

HUGE(Image credit: UNIQLOSingapore)

If you have yet to catch the sneak peak video of the new outlet, it spans nearly 29,000 square feet over 3 floors!For comparison, the new Sephora at ION spans only 10,000 square feet.

The new Orchard Central outlet still boasts its signature light wood, simple layout and standing mannequins. Something to look forward to? It also holds the largest collection of UNIQLO dresses!

2. Get Featured

Screen(Image credit: UNIQLOSingapore)

In anticipation of its opening, UNIQLO has rolled out a new campaign, #yourstagelivenow. Featuring local talents, you too can be featured on their large screens if you upload a picture of yourself expressing creativity on Instagram or Facebook.

Fun Fact: The new flagship store has 286 digital screens throughout the 3 floors, the most in the company’s history!

3. Learn Something New

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UNIQLO is also collaborating with Singaporean talents, bringing you workshops on; poetry writing, calligraphy and floral arrangements. Sign up for UNIQLO’s e-newsletter for more details!

4. Exclusive Shopping Bags And Uniqlo T-Shirts

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UNIQLO is all about collaborating with regional and local talents, for the new flagship store.Teaming up with local artists in creating exclusive t-shirt designs (showcased in a dedicated UNIQLO T-shirt corner on Level 1).

Something to convince you to stand in line for the opening? UNIQLO in collaboration with 4 local illustrators have come up with 4 different shopping bag designs. You can’t get this just by popping by the store, they’re given out exclusively with a purchase and they’re only available while stocks last.

5. A Little Taste Of The Neighbourhood

uniqlogoodneighbourguide_zpslaqtzqej(Image credit: Makan All Day Long! Singapore’s First Vending Machine Cafe Opens In Sengkang

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5 Adult Playgrounds That Will Make You Feel Like A Child Again

Living in Singapore isn’t just about malls and shopping (don’t get me wrong, I LOVE malls and shopping), you can find some pretty exhilarating and unique things to do on our tiny island. We sourced out some of the best adult playgrounds you can find across Singapore!

1. BOUNCE

Bounce 1(Imagre credit: 2. Laser Tag

Laser Tag 1(Image credit: allows you freedom to choose where you want to play! Bummer is you have to enquire and book in advance! If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional and controlled, opt for Flying Trapeze 1(Image credit: , this GO Kart1(Image credit: and Megazip2

(Image credit: Tripadvisor)

Located in sunny Sentosa, Rope Yoga & Kitesurfing? 6 Thrilling Sports For Adrenaline Junkies

Ambassador Highlights #1: Food Tastings, Secret Life of Pets Preview & Beers!

Here at DiscoverSG we’re all bout local events and amazing eats! This weekend the DiscoverSG team and our brand ambassadors headed down to some exciting events!

Here are DiscoverSG’s Brand Ambassador Highlights this month!

1.La Semaine Franҫaise (The French Week)

OCF Banner (DiningCitySG)

(Image credit: Dining City SG)

Appreciating the taste of French Cuisine tonight.

A photo posted by Kimberley Yong (@kimberleyyong_) on

Presenting two of my favorite dishes from last night’s magnificent spread. Compliments to the chef. . From 10 to 17 September, 25 restaurants across the city will be offering exquisite deals of French Food and Wine to share the best of French classic and fusion gastronomy. During this French week, La Semaine Francaise, all first time or frequent French foodies will be able to experience a 3 course meal at these 25 restaurants for just $40++ for lunch and $58++ for dinner. . This is just one of the many interesting weeks or festivals Singapore has to offer. To keep up with more exciting events, follow @discoversgofficial here on Instagram or visit their website <www.discoversg.com> It’s never a boring week with @discoversgofficial ?

A photo posted by Kimberley Yong (@kimberleyyong_) on

What’s better than a little French Food to spice up your week? Nothing really according to DSG’s brand ambassador Kimberley Yong.

Supported by The French Ministry of Agriculture, DiningCity, played host for this year’s Le Semaine Francaise (or The French Week for us English speakers). Kimberley tasted some delicate french hors d’oeuvres paired with classic French wines against the backdrop of classic architecture.

For the rest of us who missed out on the event, do not fret! From 10 to 17 September, 25 restaurants across the city will be offering dining deals on exquisite French foods and wine. Head down to both fusion and classic French restaurants such as Absinthe, Oso Grill, OCF, Lewin Terrace and Saveur for exclusively crated lunch ($40++) and dinner ($58++) set menus.

The best part of French Week? You receive a complimentary glass of French Red or White wine when you order the lunch or dinner set menu at any participating eatery!

For the full list of participating restaurants: Si Yu Ding Dong

(Image credit: Si Yu)

If you love Asian fusion food and are constantly looking out for new restaurants, we’ve got you covered. Known for its eclectic take on Asian cuisine, Si Yu was there to see it happen!

What did she love best about Ding Dong? The oriental theme and eclectic design of Ding Dong of course!

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(Image Credit: Craving for something sweet? Chef Jet Lo serves up a lighter version of the popular traditional Cantonese dessert.The Ding Dong mango with pomelo and sago is reinvigorated with mango foam sorbet and passionfruit puree. With each bite, accompanying fresh pomelo bits and freeze-fried mango chips add an interesting texture.

3. Secret Life of Pets Preview

Estelle SLoP SLoP

A weekend in Singapore is just not complete if you’re not catching a movie! Thanks to United International Picture, DiscoverSG’s brand ambassadors Estella Ho and Stephanie (piinkmasquerade) were lucky enough to get tickets to the sneak preview of Secret Life of Pets!

Ever wondered what your pets were thinking and doing when you left the house? The brilliant minds behind Despicable Me and Minions have brought to life an animated comedy about the lives our pets lead .

If you’re a animal lover, a child at heart or if you’re looking for something lighthearted to catch this week (out in cinemas 1 September), head on over to your nearest cineplex and catch Secret Life of Pets!

4. Chang Beer Fest

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The weekend is all about kicking back with friends, having a drink or two and getting our hands on some delicious food! The DiscoverSG team and our brand ambassadors (Shivon Chua, Dacia Klee, Anna Ng, Isabel Lee, Rae, Nicole Lee, Vanessa Ho) had an amazing time at the Noise Singapore Festival 2016 – Show Your Support For Our Local Talents!

Disneyland Singapore – A ‘Could Have Been’ For Singapore

1. Disney Castle
(Image credit: 1. The Walt Disney Company Needed Land

Lower Seletar BEFORE
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The Walt Disney companyTheme Park
(Image credit: that theme parks should not be funded by the government and should be essentially run by the private sector (If you didn’t already know, USS is owned by Genting Singapore, a company of the Genting Group).

For a long while, there wasn’t any other news of a Disneyland being built in Singapore. Until 2006, where it was AFter(Image credit: Singapore Through My Eyes)

For now, the Lower Seletar Reservoir still stands with only small developments making it a nice place to sit and chat during cool evenings. While we might just have to settle for Universal Studios for the foreseeable future, I just keep thinking won’t it be AMAZING if a new amusement park was developed at this scenic stretch? It’ll definitely boost Yishun’s street cred!

Also Read: Songkran In Singapore – Get Soaked At USS Soak Out Water Party!

Because Bangkok Is Overrated, Let These Hidden Gems In Thailand Take Your Breath Away

Thailand has long been one of our top favourite travel destinations. Instead of flocking to the usual tourist spots such as Bangkok and Phuket, how about visiting somewhere different and undiscovered?

Head to these 9 picturesque & hidden spots in the Land of Smiles before everyone discovers it!

1. Northern Thailand

Surrounded by dense forests and tall mountains, northern Thailand enjoys a cooler climate compared to the rest of the country. For a long time, it was pretty much cut off from the rest of the world due to political issues. While it has since opened up, the area is still pretty rustic and retains much of its original charm!

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d120922.35102924087!2d98.8788694445744!3d18.716719887593346!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x30da3a7e90bb6f5d%3A0x98d46270a59b4367!2sChiang+Mai%2C+Mueang+Chiang+Mai+District%2C+Chiang+Mai%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859097272&w=600&h=450]

a. Grand Canyon Chiang Mai

[caption id="attachment_12799" align="alignnone" width="2289"]Mind-Blowing-Grand-Canyon-Chiang-Mai Image credit: VacayHack Grand Canyon Chiang Mai[/caption]

Less than an hour away from the city centre of Chiang Mai lies the unexpected and beautiful Grand Canyon Chiang Mai.

There are no insane crowds as of now, because the awesome landscape is still pretty much a local secret. So swim, sunbathe and cliff jump all you want in this offbeat tranquil space before others know about it!

Address: 244 M.3 T.Namphrae A.hangdong, Chiang Mai, Thailand 50230

How to get there: Be adventurous and rent a motorbike! Follow Google Map directions after keying “Grand Canyon Chiang Mai”. You can also arrange a red truck or taxi to bring you there.

b. Phu Chi Fa

[caption id="attachment_12855" align="alignnone" width="1600"]phu-chi-fa-sunrise Image Credit: Book Thailand Now Phu Chi Fa[/caption]

This hidden spot is one of the locals’ favourite places to catch the sunrise, especially during winter from October to February. Because of its remote location and winding roads, it is still an undiscovered and secret spot to most foreigners.

Trek up the 1.8 km trail to the summit and be rewarded with spectacular and breathtaking views, particularly the sea of clouds at dawn! On a clear day, you can even soak in lovely views of the Mekong River and Laos.

Address: Amphoe Thoeng, 130 km from Chiang Rai city. Phu Chi Fa is a mountain located in the area of the Pa Mae Ing and Pa Mae Ngao National Forest Reserve. It’s in Amphur Thoeng in the Chiang Rai Province.

How to get there: 3-hour bus ride from Chiang Rai bus terminal at 1 pm.

2. Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is a haven for many popular beach and island resorts in the country, including the original Thai paradise island – Phuket, Ko Samui and Krabi.

However, there are many more less well-known but surreal beaches and picturesque islands. 

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1011352.8708195522!2d98.43204515739975!3d8.040401747423967!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x30518d792d7f9309%3A0x10223bc2c364c90!2sKrabi%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859313666&w=600&h=450]

a. Railay Bay

[caption id="attachment_13185" align="aligncenter" width="1500"]Credit: RailayBay Credit: Railay Bay is a narrow peninsula near Krabi. It is accessible only by boat. Known for mind-blowing views of the sunset, this small crescent beach comes alive in the evening. But not to worry, you will still be able to find your private space easily on this amazing beach.

railay-beach-climbing-tourImage Credit: Almond Beach Club
Railay Beach rock climbing

Rent a kayak on Railay West Beach from the resorts or right in front of Walking Street. Paddle out to the south of the beach towards the rocky coastline and you can glide through some natural cave tunnels for a fun thrill!

Witness the crumbling limestone cliffs by the bay that will be tinted with rich red and orange colours as the sun sets. Feeling adventurous? Challenge yourself by climbing these towering cliffs for a magnificent bird’s eye view of the pristine beach.

These are just some experiences that will surely guarantee an unforgettable vacay!

How to get there: Take a 15-minute boat ride from Ao Nang Beach in Krabi

3. Northeast Thailand

Northeast Thailand, or Isan as it is commonly known, is home to the best national parks in the country. Here are two fascinating sites in Ko Chang – Thailand’s third largest island. You’ve got to discover it before everyone else does!

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d124861.59596004599!2d102.26155172607647!3d12.048689959804873!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x310413dd86bdba11%3A0x403d84ae1b4d240!2sKo+Chang%2C+Ko+Chang+District%2C+Trat%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859631912&w=600&h=450]

a. Koh Chang’s waterfalls

[caption id="attachment_12802" align="alignnone" width="800"]mind-blowing-waterfall Image credit: Geocaching Kai Bae Waterfall[/caption]

Koh Chang is famous for its waterfalls. One of the better and hidden ones is Kai Bae. Tourists may flock to the other waterfalls, but Kai Bae is a well-kept secret of Koh Chang’s local residents and long term expatriates.

It cannot be found on the tourist map, but good news: the waterfalls is relatively easy to access! Free for all to enter, this hidden waterfall is just 30 minutes from the beach!

The best time to visit is from May to November, where there will be enough water plunging from the top to the plunge pool below. Enjoy the refreshing swim and create memories with your loved ones.

How to get there: It’s so undiscovered, it deserves better directions.

Start your walk at the 7-eleven opposite the entrance to Kai Bae Hut. Take the dirt road leading inland, passing by workers’ homes on the right and Sanook Sanag Resort on the left. Following, you will see the laundry for Sea View Resort on your left.

The dirt road now meanders through a pomelo field, passing by the water tower on your right. A few hundred metres further on, look for a stone walled compound about 50 metres off the road on your left.

Another few hundred metres and you will come to a paved road with a couple of bungalows and a concrete sign in Thai. Look out for a sign in English pointing the way to the footpath leading to the waterfall shortly.

4. Western Thailand

Characterised by high mountains and steep river valleys. Western Thailand is home to most of the country’s less-disturbed forest areas. If you are seeking an adventure after your usual shopping haunt in Bangkok, head to Kanchanaburi. It’s just a 3 hours’ drive from the capital city, and the Thais believe it is one of the most beautiful provinces in the country!

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1975998.9600340114!2d97.91013398589695!3d14.691488059036128!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x30e31ad50641d69d%3A0x4f97bc0e92713e12!2sKanchanaburi%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859669067&w=600&h=450]

a. Srinakarin National Park

[caption id="attachment_13046" align="alignnone" width="2880"]huay-mae-khamin-waterfall Image Credit: Amazing Wallpapers[/caption]

Featuring natural waterfalls, hot springs, and caves, the Srinakarin National Park spans a total area of 1,532 square km. Furthermore, the lush deciduous forest is filled with abundant native wildlife such as leopard cat, slow loris and civets.

Do not forget to check out one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand – the breathtaking 7-level Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall!

How to get there:

By Boat: Charter a boat at Mong Krathae Pier or Tha Kradan Pier, 12 km from the intersection leading to Srinagarindra Dam. It costs 1,500 THB (10 persons) to 3000 THB (30 persons). Upon arrival at Huai Mae Khamin Pier, walk for about 200 metres to the waterfall.

By Bus: Take a Song Thaeo from Wat Thung Lat Ya in Amphoe Mueang passing Ban Ton Maphrao, Ban Nam Mut, Phut Ta Sian and Namtok Huai  Mae Khamin. The bus departs at noon and is about 4 hours’ ride. (Note: Departure time subject to change.)

Admission fee: 300 THB for adults, 200 THB for children

b. Elephant’s World

[caption id="attachment_12863" align="alignnone" width="1600"]elephants-world Image Credit: The World Is Not That Big[/caption]

At Elephant’s World, it’s you who will be working for the elephants, not the other way around!

How is this possible? Elephant’s World is a non-profit elephant refuge that offers an interesting and responsible alternative to the usual tourist elephant camps. Functioning like a “retirement home”, the village houses sick, old, disabled, abused and rescued elephants within the jungle-clad mountains by the River Kwai.

Led by a volunteer guide, you can help take care of Elephants by gathering food, feeding and bathing them. The idyllic environment allows visitors plenty of time and space for intimate encounters with the elephants. Enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience that brings you up close to the lovely animal.

Leave the camp feeling great that you have done something good for the elephants rather than harm them. Moreover, we don’t get such experience in modern Singapore!

Address: 90/9 Moo 4, Baan Nong Hoi, Amphoe Mueang, Tambon Wang Dong, Kanchanaburi 71190, Thailand

How to get there: From Kanchanaburi, follow the 3199 road and turn at the intersection 38/1 for going to Nijiko Resort and Country Club – นจโกะรสอรท แอนด คนทรคลบ and follow the Elephant’s World signs.

With these awesome hidden spots in Thailand so close to Singapore, it seems like your next mind-blowing vacation neither needs to be far away nor expensive!

Rather, what you need is an open mind! Furthermore, there’s so much to do in each of these secret places in Thailand.

You don’t even need to spend big bucks or endure long exhausting flights that sap your energy before you reach paradise! Head to these surreal places before they get too crowded for comfort.

Also, read Singapore’s 63 Islands! Here Are 6 Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd!

LTA Secretly Launched A High Tech Bus Stop – This Is What It Looks Like!

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Travelling with kids? The book shelves are going to keep your kids occupied. Filled with books for kids and adults, this book shelve is a much appreciated addition for any book lovers out there!

4. Useful Additions To The Bus Stop

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Singapore’s 63 Islands – Here Are 6 Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd!

Singapore is actually made up of 63 offshore islands! 62 surround the main island that we live in. If you’re looking to spend your weekends at somewhere less crowded, you can try island-hopping in Singapore! Yes, time to correct that mindset. Singapore is not just a city of one island. It’s SIXTY THREE!

Besides the main island, these are the largest offshore islands; Sentosa, Pulau Tekong, and Pulau Ubin. The smallest island is Pulau Sejarat Kechil. It has a land area of just 0.1 ha!

With interesting islands you can visit without a passport, you can have more fun in the sun! Why not try something unique during your off-day or weekends? You’ll never imagine Singapore as so alluringly attractive with its many hidden islands.

Here are 6 islands you can visit for a quiet day trip away from the city!

1. Pulau Hantu

Located only 30 minutes away from Singapore by boat, Pulau Hantu is a popular haunt for fishing, swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

WaikikiDive-Pulau-Hantu-130730-212758Credit: Credit: Mulloway Dive[/caption]

Pulau Hantu is made up of two smaller islets – Pulau Hantu Besar (Big Ghost Island) and the Pulau Hantu Kechil (Little Ghost Island). The name came about because the mid part of the island “disappears” during high tide.

If you’re not into water activities, both islands are great places to settle down for a nice, cosy picnic. It is also popular with campers and day-trippers who enjoy a unique outdoor experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’d like to camp overnight, a camping permit is required.

How to Get There: There are no scheduled ferries to Pulau Hantu. But you can get there by joining one of the weekend dive trips or by charter boats at the West Coast Ferry Terminal.

2. Kusu Island

Known for its religious Chinese temple and Malay shrines, Kusu Island is packed with people during the ninth lunar month. During this period, Chinese devotees will flock to the island to visit the isolated Chinese temple where Da Bo Gong (God of Prosperity) and Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) reside.

Others make the laborious climb up to the top of the hill to pray at the shrines of three Malay saints. If you’re looking for a quiet refuge, visit the island when it’s not pack during the pilgrimage period.

[caption id="attachment_12026" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Kusu Island Image credit: Straits Times[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12059" align="alignnone" width="1024"]KUSU Image credit: Islandcruise.com.sg[/caption]

There are two lagoons, beach shelters, and barbeque pits for you to laze your day away. Enjoy picturesque views and various aquatic plants and animals. What’s more, you may even get to see countless wild tortoises in the area too! Do note that overnight stays are not permitted.

How to Get There: Ferries depart from Marina South Pier daily. Visit their stjohn01 Image credit: islandcruise.com.sg[/caption]

Despite its dark past, St John’s Island has been transformed into an idyllic getaway with an abundance of outdoor activities suitable for all ages.

[caption id="attachment_13024" align="aligncenter" width="780"]Credits: Con Foley Credits: Con Foley[/caption]

Spot dolphins by the water, trek up hills or play a game of soccer in the fields. If you’re tired after a long day under the sun, there are several bungalow chalets and bunks in this island that can accommodate up to 60 people.

Be it a family outing or a get-together trip with friends, you’re bound to enjoy this island and have a comfortable place to stay!

How to Get There: Ferries depart from Marina South Pier daily. Visit their 4. Lazarus Island

If you love the sun and beach is your thing, you’ll adore Lazarus Island. Connected by the short causeway to and from St John’s Island is Lazarus Island, a hidden oasis for beach junkies.

[caption id="attachment_12036" align="alignnone" width="620"]lauzarus island Image credit: tripzilla[/caption]

Compared to Sentosa and East Coast Park, the beach at Lazarus Island is calm and the waters are cleaner.

Since Lazarus Island is undeveloped, it’s perfect for a visit before it gets too crowded or turns into another Singapore resort. Do note that there are no shower points on the island. The nearest ones would be a short walk away at St John’s Island.

How to Get There: Take a ferry from Marina South Pier to St. John’s Island. Lazarus is a jetty-walk away from St. John’s island.

If you intend to stay overnight at these islands, it’s best to pack wisely! Because there are no amenities or shops, you won’t be able to run out to buy facial wash or tissue.

Here are some essentials you’ll need to bring along: all toiletries, wet and dry tissue papers, water and snacks, mosquito repellent and sunblock! If you’re intending to stay overnight with your BF/ GF as a couple retreat, don’t forget to bring along contraception such as Durex! You’re definitely not going to find any store to purchase contraception in these islands. Even if you’ve been with your partner for a long time and STI is not a concern, you still need to prevent against pregnancy if you’re not ready for a family. Always play safe!

5. Sisters’ Island Marine Park

Home to Singapore’s marine biodiversity, the Sisters’ Island is a dedicated site for marine conservation and research. Visitors to the island will be able to observe marine life such as such as sea fans, sponges and sea anemones.

[caption id="attachment_12044" align="alignnone" width="1024"]sister islands Image credit: NParks[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12242" align="alignnone" width="640"]sisters' island Image credit: Islandcruise.com.sg[/caption]

With many trees providing shade for a leisurely picnic and BBQ pit around the area, Sisters’ Island is the place to visit for a quiet weekend day-trip or evening camping a night here. Yes, you can camp overnight with an approval obtained from Sentosa!

For a more unique experience, sign up for a guided walk to learn about the Marine Park’s amazing biodiversity. These walks are conducted free of charge! Click here for more information on the schedules. In addition, to encourage a deeper appreciation for Singapore’s marine biodiversity, NParks is organising guided dive trails.

How to Get There: Charter your own boat from West Coast Pier or Marina South Pier. Boats will be chartered for participants of NParks’ guided walks.

Bonus: Pulau Satumu

Tiny in size, Pulau Satumu is Singapore’s most southern island and is surrounded by crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Home to the Raffles Lighthouse, this island is a beauty!

[caption id="attachment_12050" align="alignnone" width="700"]pulauSatamu Image credit: borntobunk.com[/caption]

Unfortunately, this island is not open for public visit. However, there are some golden opportunities at certain times of the year when you can join a guided tour operated by Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority!

Bored of spending your weekends and free time in the main Singapore island? Call all your kakis and have a fun time out in the sun! It’s time to discover the other side of Singapore you’ve never seen before!

(Header image by mothership.sg, edited by writer)

Also, read Stuck In Singapore? Here Are 10 Uncommon Places To Visit For A Different Kinda Fun!