Audience: Sports

Always Wanted To Be A Pilot? Get Your Licence To Fly Without Emptying Your Bank Account!

Always wanted to try flying a plane but never had a chance? You can now realise your dream to fly at Singapore’s very first private Flight School!

Formed by a group of experienced private aviators, Flight School is the only private school in Singapore. Additionally, it provides realistic training with sophisticated full-motion flight simulator.

Get Your Private Pilot Licence at Flight School

If you’ve seriously considered learning to fly, you would have thought that getting a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is an unrealistic and unattainable dream.

Just thinking about how much you’ll have to pay in order to practice with a real plane would have made your knees go weak.

However, Flight School keeps the cost low, and your unattainable dream may just be possible!

At Flight School, they offer a comprehensive 12-week ground school in-classroom programme to help aspiring aviators like you prepare for the FAA (USA) Private Pilot Knowledge Test.

The best part of all, the full-motion Redbird MCX flight simulator is being used instead of a real plane, making it a whole lot more affordable to train for a license.

“By removing the need to practise in a real plane, it is possible for a learner pilot to prepare for the FAA Private Pilot test at a fraction of the time and cost of going the traditional route,” said Mr Lim who is, himself, a certified private pilot.  “Flight training is now more accessible, affordable, and within reach of anyone.”

Redbird MXC Flight Simulator

Learning to fly on a flight simulator?

It sure doesn’t sound like the real deal – it’s definitely different from manoeuvring a real plane, right?

Fret not, because this badass simulator accurately replicates the controls of single and twin engine aircrafts that are commonly used for flight training.

Furthermore, the Redbird can also be configured for advanced flight training, including multi-engine and instrument flight training.

Trainees can clock up time ‘abroad’, train under any weather conditions and ‘land’ at any airport in the world with this simulator.

It is very much cheaper than renting an aircraft, and a whole lot safer too!

By the time trainees get into a real plane, they will feel a sense of familiarity with the instrument layout, controls, and sensation of flying an aircraft.

Full Motion Flight Simulator Experience For Everybody

What if you’re interested to try but not keen on the license?

Flight School also offers simulation sessions for adults and children aged 7 years and above.

You can explore the joy of flying an aircraft from as short as 45 minutes to as long as 180 minutes!

Teenagers aged 13-16 can also join Flight School’s Young Aviator’s Programme.

This special programme aims to spark students’ interests in Math, Science, Technology and Engineering through hands on learning.

Flight School Open House

Flight School will be hosting an open house from 26 to 27 November and 3 to 4 December 2016!

There will be fun games for children, aviation-related talks for adults, all day long snacks and FREE flight simulation sessions for all (aged 7 years and above).

While the Open House does not require any pre-registration, you will need to book your flight simulation session in advance to guarantee a spot.

Slots are running out really fast, so click Noreen and Clare, had the opportunity to try the flight simulator. Here’s their experience:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM1Htpkg8OK/?taken-by=claregwendolyn

Flight School Open House
Date: 26 & 27 November, 3 & 4 December 2016
Time: 9am – 7pm
Venue: Flight School, WingsOverAsia Hangar 66, 66 Seletar Aerospace View, 797509 (Next to Seletar Airport Control Tower)
Website:

Programmes available at Klook x KopiPass: Enjoy Free Coffee While Planning Your Holiday Activities!

Singapore: The Wild Edition. Get Down & Dirty With These 6 Hidden Nature Activities!

What?! Singapore has a wild side? Before thoughts of living like Bear Grylls start creeping into your mind, we are referring to living on the wild(er) side in Singapore – nature activities catered for the adventurous, nature-loving enthusiasts.

Sounds like your type of thing? Step out of your comfort zone with these hidden nature activities. Start living on the wild side – Singapore edition.

1. Hike to the Wetlands of Chek Jawa

Venture to this unknown nature wonderland hidden off the mainland of Singapore – Chek Jawa’s Wetlands.

[caption id="attachment_16087" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Credit: fryap.wordpress[/caption]

This is perhaps your only chance to touch and see this ancient-mariner which happens to be as old as dinosaurs!

Volunteers are trained to properly handle these fascinating creatures. You’ll learn to measure their length, identify their gender and breeding status before releasing them back into the mudflats. A science lesson like no other! This activity occurs once a month so do remember to register online beforehand.

Horseshoe Crab Project
For more information, visit the website here.

3. Explore Jurong’s Abandoned Railway Line

Surprisingly, Jurong’s abandoned railway line has yet to be declared as out-of-bounds by the Government, so feel free to go on this one-of-a-kind jungle and tunnel walk.

[caption id="attachment_16090" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Credit: Credit: Website

5. Cycle and Trek Pulau Ubin

Just a short bumboat ride away, Pulau Ubin is set to whet your appetite for adventure!

[caption id="attachment_16651" align="aligncenter" width="1698"] Credit: Credit: Credit: here.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s city life with these wild activities you never knew Singapore had! Get muddy and dirty with Singapore’s wild side. Get your trusty shoes on and get ready to take on Singapore’s wild side!

(Header image credit: 15 Must Eat, Must Drink And Must Try Spots In Singapore!

A Breath Of Fresh Air: 7 Insanely Unique & Crazy Activities In Singapore!

When we do miraculously squeeze out free time to kickback and engage in the recreational activities that we so desperately need, we find ourselves swept up in this disconsolate state of inertia.

What you need is something different, something with a kick to get you right out of this slump.

Here at DiscoverSG, we might just have the right thing for you. Here are 7 recreational activities so outlandish and so unheard of, you might just have to try them out.

1. Jetpack

As far as unique activities go, JetPacking really takes the cake.

Imagine hovering across the water courtesy of a pressurised, water-propelled jetpack.

Capable of soaring to a whopping 30ft and hitting speeds of up to 25mph, Location: 36 Siloso Beach, Sentosa, Singapore 099007
Price: Cadet Training – $228 (45 mins) & First Officer Training – $298 (60 mins)
Tel: 6376 4336
Email: [email protected]

2. European Swordsmanship

Let’s face it, we’ve all wanted to try swinging swords around like they do in the movies. This is now possible with growing interest in European Swordsmanship in Singapore.

3. Slacklining

Slacklining will quite literally have you on your toes as you sidle across suspended lines of cord.

Choose from a multitude of varying heights and distances and put your balance to the test in this enthralling activity.

[caption id="attachment_15513" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Credit: The Straits Times[/caption]

While incredibly unique and engaging, slacklining also promotes good body posture and core strength.

Credit: The Borneo Post[/caption]

Essentially a medieval-themed combat archery with elements of dodgeball and paintball – quirky doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Hone your dexterity, team spirit, and focus, all while having a great time with your peers.

[email protected]

Aside from being safer and more environmentally-friendly, Laser Clay Shooting offers you a realistic shooting experience.

Use authentic deactivated 12-bore shotguns which produce lifelike gun shots and clay breaking sound effects. Take your focus and coordination to the next level and fire away!

Credit: MyActiveSG[/caption]

Derived from volleyball, Bossaball also incorporates principles from football, gymnastics and even capoeira.

Now take into account the trampolines and you get one of the craziest, most exhilarating modern team sports. Time to show off some spectacular flips and tricks.

Bossaball Singapore
Location: 10 Raeburn Park #02-08, Singapore 088702
Tel: 6100 6292
Email: [email protected]

 7. SurfSet

Touted as one of the world’s most peculiar workout routines, SURFSET draws inspiration from the sport of surfing.

Workout routines are carried out on the SURFSET board, designed to accurately simulate the physical demands of surfing in the ocean.

Furthermore, elements of aerobic fat burning, muscle building and core training are integrated into the workout. This makes for an extremely intense workout.

The multitudinous physical benefits of this activity however, are there for all to see. Get in surfer shape (without getting sunburnt or even wet).

Cycle X Makan – 5 Best Food And Night Cycling Paths In SG

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Full-Time Mum And Entrepreneur Jaime Teo

Jaime Teo. Most Singaporeans only know her as a Miss Singapore Universe winner and as Daniel Ong’s better half. But really, the 38 year old mumtrepreneur (a mummy entrepreneur) is more than just a pretty face! She may not be on our television screens as much but she’s been really busy. Her newest venture? Partnering up with popular sportswear label Under Armour! Here are 5 facts about Jaime Teo that might just surprise you!

1. She Was Part Of A Singapore-Taiwan Girl Group

2. She Loves To Bake

Any mum out there can attest that raising kids is no walk in the park. For mumtrepreneur /FLY artist/wife Jaime Teo, she says all her roles are easy to fulfil with supportive husband, Daniel Ong by her side. Being a mummy, is a 24 hour ‘cannot quit’ job and while it can be a full load with so many things on her plate, Jaime still manages to spend time with daughter, Renee Ong!

Check out Jaime Teo’s Instragram, she’s always uploading videos of daughter, Renee!

4. She’s Fitter Than You

While balancing her very busy schedule, Jaime still manages to keep fit, by running, rock climbing and even working out at home. Which goes to show all you really need for a workout is an exercise mat and some really good workout music!

Mumtrepreneur , Jaime Teo’s latest venture is partnering up with Under Armour, the popular sportswear label, to help other ladies adopt a fit and healthy lifestyle like she has!

Hard to believe that Jaime used to battle weight and body issues since a young age, but this former Miss Singapore Universe has certainly come a long way!


UA Women: Empowering One Another

Want to get some tips on getting a workout in despite a busy work schedule? You’re in luck! Jaime Teo will be speaking at the UA Women: Empowering One Another event, where she’ll be giving the crowd tips of crafting a healthy lifestyle and the different types of exercises to give you that extra boost of energy!

And she’s not alone, Sarah Pang, Singapore’s National Tennis Player will also be holding a tennis clinic for Tennis novice and experts alike!

Empower Yourself: How to Manage Your Energy
Sarah Pang, Jaime Teo, and Marie Choo
Sat, 22 October 2016
9.30am – 10.30am
Hometeam NS Balestier (Cookyn Inc)

Tennis Clinic with Sarah Pang
Sat, 22 October 2016
8am – 9.30am
Hometeam NS Balestier (Tennis Courts)
Equipment: Workout attire and tennis racquet

Want to find out more about UA Women: Empowering One Another? Check out their event page HERE

Find out more information about Under Armour at their 5. She’s A Risk Taker  [caption id="attachment_16374" align="alignnone" width="1011"] Jaime Teo’s Instagram[/caption]

With numerous acting gigs under her belt, winning Miss Singapore Universe, a successful cupcake company, a happy family life and now a fitness junkie, Jaime Teo seems to have it all.

But getting there hasn’t been a walk in the park, Jaime above all things is a risk taker. And if we can learn something from this mumtrepreneur , its taking risks is better than regretting never risking anything.

(feature image: Jaime Teo Instagram)

Also Read: How Does Floating Freely Feel? We Tried It Out At Palm Ave Float Club!

7 Best Places For Team Sports: Grab Them Buddies & Get Some Exercise!

Ask any kid what their favourite lesson in school is, and the answer will no doubt be, “PE lesson!”

The days of school and PE lessons were undoubtedly one of the fondest times of our lives.

I’m sure we all remember how much fun we had bonding and competing with our classmates and teammates in a wide array of team sports and activities.

Wanna relive those days? Grab a few buddies and experience that same sense of camaraderie and team spirit again!

Basketball

Many of us enjoyed playing basketball because of how inclusionary yet intense it was. Regardless of skill level, people could participate in some shape or form, all while having some good competitive fun.

Naturally, we long for the opportunity to experience those fleeting, carefree spells of exhilaration and ecstasy once more.

Lace up and recapture those moments here:

SG Social Basketball
Visit the official SG Social Basketball group page to find out more about the location, time, cost and how to be involved.
Group page: Football

A crowd favourite back in good old PE class, we had tons of fun regardless of the conditions, be it makeshift goalposts or dingy patches of uneven grass.

Fancy a throwback to the glory days? Craving some good competitive footballing action or a simple fun-filled kick-about with your friends?

Get your fix of football action here:

U Soccer Interest Group
For more details, contact U Sports at:
Tel: 6582 3459
Email: [email protected]

Floorball

One for the sun detractors, Floorball is probably one of the most high-octane indoor sports out there.

Clashing sticks, jostling through literal heaps of people, and sprinting end-to-end brings about whopping amounts of adrenaline.

Play Floorball
Visit the official Play Floorball group page to find out more about the location, time, costs and how to get involved!
Group page: https://www.meetup.com/playfloorball/

Floorball at Valhall
Cost: $10 per game
Visit the official Floorball at Valhall group page to find out more about the location, time, costs and how to get involved!
Group page: https://www.meetup.com/Floorball-At-Valhall/

Table Tennis

Demanding unparalleled amounts of sheer concentration and agility, Table Tennis is truly a sport that pushes you to your limit.

There is even the option of pairing up with a friend and trying your hand at doubles for a more team-oriented experience!

Heighten your senses and put yourself to the test now at:

SG Table Tennis
Visit the official SG Table Tennis group page to find out more about the location, time, cost and how to get involved!
Group Page:  Credit: Netball Singapore[/caption]

If what you’re looking for is a zeal-filled, inclusionary activity that almost necessitates a collaborative effort, look no further.

These are some places you can start building your netball-ing repertoire with your peers at:

Social Netball @ Arena
Visit the official Social Netball @ Arena group page to find out more about the location, time, cost and how to get involved!
Group page: https://www.meetup.com/Singapore-Social-Netball-Meetup/

Play Netball
Price: $3-$5
Visit the official Play Netball group page to find out more about the location, time, cost and how to get involved!
Group page: https://www.meetup.com/meetup-group-gmFHkeLN/

What are you waiting for?

Grab your friends and rediscover the joy of team sports. You’ll be feeling like a kid again in no time!

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

Here Are Some Of The Most Gorgeous Photos Of Tasmania’s Lavender Farm And Southern Lights!

Located off Australia’s south coast, Tasmania is an isolated island state filled with rugged picturesque scenery.

Because it was one of the world’s major apple producers, literally the apple fruit, it became known as the “Apple Isle”. But it’s more than just an apple producer.

Just to put things in perspective, the Apple Isle (68 km²) is 95x the size of Singapore (719 km²)! Despite that, Singapore (5.5 mil) is 10x more populated than Tasmania (517k). What does this mean? Wilderness & beautiful scenery abounds in Tasmania!

Tasmania holds so many gems on its vast wild landscape that you will wanna visit over and over again! Discover why Tasmania is the new MUST visit place for a life full of wilderness!

1. This Mountain-Lake with Southern Lights

For a few days, hike through fascinating glacier-carved valleys, ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, waterfalls and more beautiful scenery. You can end your long walk at Lake St. Clair. Soak in the amazing and tranquil scenery at the deepest lake in Australia!

Even if you don’t feel fit enough for the 65 km long alpine walk, fret not. There is a variety of day walks for visitors who are looking for a great scenic hike at Cradle Mountain.

Don’t forget to look out for native wild vegetation, glacier rocks as well as the photogenic boat shed along the walk. Note that Cradle Mountain is also a hotspot to catch the spellbinding southern lights. So make this your first stop for some awesome Tasmanian wilderness!

2. Check out towering sea cliffs + more spots for Southern Lights

How does walking along one of the most spectacular coastlines, with some of the country’s tallest sea cliffs sound to you? If that’s your idea of fun, follow the Tasman coastal trail within the splendid Tasman National Park.

Discover the power of nature from the impressive rock formations at Tasman Arch. Also, try standing on the edge of the lookout to see if you can spot the bottom of the steep soaring cliffs.

Of course, this popular Tasmania nature spot is also one of the best places to see the impressive southern lights!

3. Roam freely in the largest lavender farm in the world

Many people flock to Hokkaido in summer for the pretty lavender farms. But do you know that the world’s largest commercial lavender farm is actually in northern Tasmania?

Bridestowe Lavender Estate is about a 45-minute drive from the state’s second largest city – Launceston. If you visit the Apple Isle from November to January, seize the opportunity to visit the beautiful lavender farm in full bloom.

Run through the purple lavender fields without a care in the world. Feel in heaven with the aromatic fragrance of the blooming flowers. As you roam freely on the 260-acre huge fields, capture picture-perfect shots anywhere you want.

4. Feel on cloud nine at Mount Wellington

Accessible via a short drive from Hobart CBD, Mount Wellington is one of the top wilderness spots in Tasmania. It offers fantastic bird’s eye views of southern Tasmania as well as great walking and mountain biking trails.

Literally feel on top of the world as you look down from the 1,270 m summit!

Of course, at such high altitudes, do prepare warm and windproof clothing as you ascend the summit. Surely you want to be in your best form when walking on cloud nine, don’t you?

5. See adorable native animals up close

Last but not least, how can we forget about Tasmanian wildlife? After all, you can’t be bushwalking in the marvellous national parks with your eyes closed, can you?

Look out for the Tasmanian Devil, the largest carnivous marsupial found only in the wild in Tasmania. The cute bear-like marsupial is a local pride and joy of the island state.

Besides the Tasmanian Devil, there’s a rich variety of fauna that can be found on the island. Keep your eyes open for the likes of adorable wombats, pademelon, eastern quoll as you enjoy the great walks in the numerous national parks.

Essentially, you don’t get to see them up close anywhere else except in Tasmanian wilderness!

With so many natural gems on the Apple Isle waiting for you to unveil, it’s probably hard not to fall in love with the rugged scenery! Filled with activities that will satisfy all, Tasmania certainly deserves more attention than it does now.

Rather than make repeat visits to the usual Australian cities such as Perth, Sydney or Melbourne, why not check out a different side of Australia? Create a unique Tasmanian holiday that will make you wanna live in wilderness!

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

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

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

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

Image 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"] 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

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

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!

[GIVEAWAY] Win ONE WEEK’s Worth Of Yoga Classes At Pure Yoga’s Swanky New Outlet

Need a break from work or want to stay fit? Head down to Pure Yoga’s newest outlet at Asia Square! Recently opened on 25 July 2016, this new outlet is located 5 minutes away from Downtown MRT station. Ideal for CBD yogis, the new Asia Square location is the perfect retreat for working professionals.

Whether you are a fitness junkie or a yoga newbie, Pure Yoga offers a variety of classes that caters to all! We bet you’ll love this warm and beautiful place as much as we did!

Our Experience

Pure Yoga kindly hosted our team for a Media Session. We embarked on a 1 hour Dynamic Yoga Session. All of us left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Our Pure Yoga experience was definitely a fun-filled and lighthearted one! The new joint at Asia Square was huge and welcoming with its large lounge areas and paintings on the walls.

At Pure Yoga, every student is able to progress at their own pace. Friendly instructors are specially-trained to lead classes.  They helped and taught us to correct our pose and postures during the class.

We like how the curriculum is structured in a way where each student will see a progression in his/ her own practice.

More Than 120 Classes Weekly!

Pure Yoga’s internationally certified instructors lead a diverse range of yoga classes. Classes range from traditional to contemporary styles.

Classes are categorised into 5 different Pillars: Healing, Grounding, Dynamic, Hot and Specialised. A yoga newbie can sign up for the grounding or basic classes such as Hatha.

The advanced yogi looking for a challenge can try their specialty programs such as Aerial and Wall Rope yoga!

With 120 classes weekly, there’ll definitely be a class that will suit your schedule. Pure members can also easily book classes to fit their personal schedules.

Classes start as early at 6.30am on weekdays with classes during lunch hours and after-office hours. Working professionals around CBD will surely find a class that accommodates their schedule.

Amazing Facilities

Wind down at Pure Yoga’s cosy chill-out lounge and surf the net with complimentary wi-fi, along with tablet and phone charging facilities. With a wide range of magazines available, you need not worry about waiting for classes to start.

Pure Yoga’s walls exhibit freehand artworks by Spanish luxe-graffiti artist, Victoriano.  It evokes calmness and contemplation. With a modern zen aura emanating from the studios, corridors and lounge, this makes a perfect place for relaxing.

Pure Yoga’s vanity area is designed with earthy tones. You’ll immediately feel cosy and at home! Its large changing area is decked with rainforest showers and complimentary towels and toiletries.

There’s even a spin dryer available. You need not lug your sweaty yoga wear around anymore!

Enjoy Fresh Smoothies And Superfoods At Nood Food

Get healthy at Nood Food juice bar at Pure Yoga’s Asia Square outlet. Organic cold-pressed juices and superfood smoothies, raw snacks, salads, sandwiches and wraps are all available at Nood Food.

You need not worry about the hunger pangs after your workout. Even acai bowls are available! As ingredients are clearly labelled on the items, you can be sure that you’re eating healthy, nutritious, fresh food!

Itching to visit Pure Yoga’s beautiful Asia Square outlet?

WIN A PAIR OF 7-DAY PASSES TO PURE YOGA!

Simply LIKE and SHARE this post on Facebook and stand a chance to be one of our lucky winners!

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/posts/2066028986956126

Winners will win a pair of 7-day complimentary passes (worth $374.50 each!) to Pure Yoga! A total of 10 pairs of passes will be given away!

This pass allows visits to all Pure Yoga locations in Singapore – Ngee Ann City, Chevron House, Asia Square (Pure Yoga and Pure Fitness)

With this pass,  you can attend 1 yoga class per day and unlimited visits to the gym. (Aerial and wall rope yoga classes not included)

The giveaway will end on 2 September 2016.

Pure Yoga Asia Square 
Address: #06-02 Asia Square Tower 2, 12 Marina View, Singapore 018961
Tel: 65 6100 8866
Opening Hours: Mon & Wed 6.30am – 10.30pm, Tue & Thu 6:15am – 10:30pm, Fri 6:30am – 9:30pm, Sat 8:15am to 7:30pm, Sun & PH 8:30am – 7:30pm

This article is brought to you by Discover SG x Pure Yoga.

Also, read Bounce Your Way To A Stronger Core And Toned Muscles – Trust Us, It’s SUPER Fun

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Free Diving In Singapore – How Long Can You Hold Your Breath Underwater?

A “free” diving course? This sounds too good to be true  – and it is. The “free” in free diving (or freediving) actually refers to diving without standard scuba gear. Instead of having an oxygen tank strapped to your back, free divers simply hold their breaths and explore the depths of the ocean with minimal equipment! Yes, it is actually possible!

One of our writers checked it out! Here is his experience:

This “minimal diving” concept appealed to the practical and penny-pinching side of me: diving with less scuba gear would mean that I get to save on equipment rental! While there might be some incentive in this, it was definitely not the main motivating factor that pushed me to try this elusive (and borderline sceptical) sport. 

Free Diving v.s. Yoga

It was my love for yoga – not the vast blue ocean or a burning passion for diving – that drew me to this sport. As I began to read up more on free diving, I became increasingly fascinated by the parallels between the two disciplines.

For example, proper breathing techniques are fundamental in both yoga and free diving. Body awareness is something yogis are always striving to improve on. This is also equally important to free divers who need to relax their muscles and hold their breaths underwater for a long period of time.

I would say that certain parts of my freediving experience were extremely similar to meditation in yoga.

[caption id="attachment_12448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Convinced that this sport has sufficiently piqued my interest, I signed up for a free diving course with Sitting through a lecture on safety procedures and free diving theories gave me shuddering flashbacks of my university days (just kidding). But it was interesting to learn more about the history of free diving. It was first practised by people who engaged in spearfishing!

[caption id="attachment_12495" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] While I did enjoy this almost meditative part of free diving, my buddy, a water polo player, did not share the same sentiments.

For one, I had difficulty controlling my buoyancy. I was either constantly hitting the floor of the pool, or bobbing up to the surface. As I swam deeper down the pool, the pressure build-up in my ears also began to hinder my movement.

Gradually, with some help from my instructor Bernard, I managed to overcome these obstacles and swam 50m by my final try.

Freediving in Open Waters

Though I did not get to dive in open waters on this half day course, I appreciated that we were able to undergo basic free diving training in a safe and controlled pool environment. I doubt I would push myself as hard or remained calm enough to work on my breathing techniques if we were to undergo training in choppy, open waters.

Now that I have completed the beginner course, I am more than ready to head out to the ocean and descend 15m underwater without any bulky scuba gear.

What a liberating experience it will be! Free diving may seem daunting at first, but it is definitely an activity that will push you out of your comfort zone. It also rewards you with a surreal underwater experience.

[caption id="attachment_12492" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Bounce Your Way To A Stronger Core And Toned Muscles – Trust Us, It’s SUPER Fun