I Pretended To Be A Kid And Got An Insider Look At KidZania – Here’s What I Found Out

Have you ever wondered or fantasized about what life would be like if you were in a different career?

Well, I do it all the time. What if I was a policewoman? What if I worked at an ice cream factory? Having always been curious about what people in other careers did, I decided to give them a try at KidZania Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_28250" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Excited to visit KidZania Singapore![/caption]

For those of you who haven’t heard of KidZania Singapore, it is an interactive indoor theme park that brings together inspiration, fun and learning through realistic role-play. Located at Sentosa, think of it as a kid-sized world that for the most part functions true to life. Think buildings, streets, vehicles and even a working economy!

[caption id="attachment_28251" align="alignnone" width="1600"] SCDF Fire Department[/caption]

Through exploring this 81,000 square feet space, and “working” like productive citizens of a society, children learn about different careers while gaining some understanding of how the world works. After all, you’re never too young to learn these things!

[caption id="attachment_28252" align="alignnone" width="1600"] KZ Express: KidZania Singapore’s postal service[/caption]

Here, there are more than 65 role play activities and over 40 establishments you’ll recognize from the real world including Esso, Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Lim Chee Guan, and more! The people at KidZania Singapore have already done the math – you’ll need 5 full days to complete every activity in KidZania Singapore!

While the theme park is designed for kids aged 4 to 17, that didn’t stop 25 year old me from crashing the fun.

Entering the park, I was blown away by this kid-sized city I never knew existed.

[caption id="attachment_28253" align="alignnone" width="1600"] The airport is KidZania Singapore’s only entrance[/caption]

Trying Out Other Careers

1. Being An Armored Guard

The first job I tried was being an armored guard.

I wore my vest like the rest of the kids and was told to transport money to 2 different locations – Nanyang Optical and 7-11. I was given a clipboard which flipped over to reveal a map of the KidZania Singapore grounds. My locations were marked ‘1’ and ‘2’.

I was instructed to do 3 things once I got to each of them: say ‘kai!’ (KidZania Singapore has its own language!) when I met the person-in-charge, say that I’ve come to deliver money, and ask them to sign on my clipboard to indicate that they’ve received it.

[caption id="attachment_28254" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Trying to find my way to 7-11[/caption]

With 2 (tiny) bags of money in my vault, and a clipboard in hand, I felt quite official – probably what the kids here feel too. I didn’t have much trouble finding my way to where I needed to go, but I did get plenty of weird looks from adults because clearly, I am too old to be doing this.

[caption id="attachment_28255" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Rolling in kidZos[/caption]

In exchange for my efforts, I got some kidZos – the currency in KidZania Singapore. For every job you do, you earn kidZos. Here’s a fun fact I found out: as with the real world, some jobs pay better than other. Working as a surgeon, for example, will give you one of the most kidZos in KidZania Singapore!

Like real currency, you can use your kidZos to buy things to take home. You can even use your kidZos to get a college degree, which will let you earn more kidZos when you work subsequently! Talk about realistic!

2. Being A Mountaineer

Another job I got the chance to try was being a mountaineer.

My agenda was simply to finish the high element course – easy peasy, or so I thought.

[caption id="attachment_28256" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Very seriously listening to instructions[/caption]

After one of the Zupervisors put me into my harness, I was ready to go.

[caption id="attachment_28257" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Terrified of falling[/caption]

While it seemed like a good idea at first, I quickly regretted my decision once I found myself on higher ground with nothing but a rope before me. Still, the Zupervisors at the station gave me very specific instructions on how to complete each challenge e.g hold on to the zaza (the KidZania Singapore term for ‘carabiner’), lean forward, do this, do that. I trusted them, and I was alright.

The harness and carabiner system used is extremely safe. Essentially, the entire course comes with ‘railings’, whether it’s the railings of the stairs or the supporting ropes that come with the various challenges. These ropes and stair railings are all linked such that you can drag your zaza through all of them, as you move through the course. You move your zaza with you as you go, and it serves as a failsafe in case you fall!

Initially, I was afraid to tackle each challenge, especially given the knowledge that this was designed for kids a fraction of my weight and height. After being assured multiple times that no kids have ever fallen from this course, I finally manned up and finished it.

Behind The Scenes

After getting a chance to play like a kid at KidZania Singapore, I got to take a look behind the scenes to understand the hard work that goes into running this city for kids. I quickly learnt that there was a lot that underpins this huge operation, and that there are plenty of neat technologies in place to aid the operation.

Tech In Security

Running an operation for kids comes with unique challenges – specifically, safety.

At peak periods (e.g school holidays) KidZania Singapore accommodates up to 1,500 people. Also, at KidZania Singapore, children are treated like adults and explore the world independently of their parents, which makes having good security measures in place even more necessary, both for the safety of the child and the peace of mind of parents.

One key security feature is the security bracelet kids are given at the airport (read: entrance) prior to entering KidZania Singapore. This contains key information about the child, including the child’s name, age, gender and their accompanying adults’ name. If a child runs out of KidZania Singapore on their own, the sensors will have their details reflected on the system so security staff can immediately track down the child.

[caption id="attachment_28258" align="alignnone" width="1600"] The Immigration Office of KidZania Singapore is the only exit of KidZania Singapore[/caption]

Also, as an additional precaution against children leaving KidZania Singapore unsupervised, there is only 1 entrance (the airport) and 1 exit (the immigration office) to KidZania Singapore, excluding emergency exits.

Tech In Human Resource

Another snazzy piece of tech that helps KidZania Singapore manage their 300-strong staff – including interns, part-time and full-time staff – is the Smart Board.

[caption id="attachment_28259" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Learning the KidZania Singapore language on the Smart Board[/caption]

Think of it as a huge iPad. It lets you surf the net, draw, save your ideas, and email them to all involved with the mere touch of a button.

This Smart Board comes in especially handy when it comes to remote training. People overseas or at home can dial in through Skype to view whatever is going on on-screen live. Given the large staff size at KidZania Singapore, this allows more people to undergo training at once, doing away with the need to hold multiple sessions or fly abroad for meetings.

[caption id="attachment_28260" align="alignnone" width="1437"] Staff clocking in and out is automated at KidZania Singapore[/caption]

Another feature that helps with the management of such a large group of staff is KidZania Singapore’s automated Human Resource (HR) system. Staff tap their staff pass on the machine to clock in, and their picture will also be taken and recorded by the system.

This system is integrated with the payroll system such that the entire process, from when staff clock in to work to when staff receive their pay, is seamless and almost fully automated.

Tech In Logistics

Finally, and perhaps the most interesting way tech is being integrated into KidZania Singapore’s operation is the RFID tagging of uniforms.

[caption id="attachment_28261" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Over 2000 uniforms to keep track of[/caption]

There are over 2000 uniforms to keep track of at KidZania Singapore, spread across all the roles Zupervisors play in KidZania Singapore. Some of these uniforms are linked to certain establishments, some are for performances, some are assigned to full-timers, and some are shared by different staff members.

This Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) tagging is an ID system that helps with identification and tracking of the uniforms by using small radio frequency identification devices. These tags are inserted into most of the uniforms.

[caption id="attachment_28262" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Trying my hand at ‘checking out’ a t-shirt[/caption]

When a Zupervisor takes their uniform out of storage, they tap the RFID tag against a reader at the uniform storage room to ‘check out’ their uniform. When they return it, they tap it again and an app called “Follow Suit” keeps track of who has taken or returned the uniform. Aside from this, a third party contractor washes all the uniforms at KidZania Singapore, and these washes are also tracked by the system.

[caption id="attachment_28263" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Seeing the Follow Suit app in action[/caption]

This straightforward system provides a fast and effective way for the people in charge to track where a uniform is, as well as the activity of a uniform to see if it is due for a wash, needs to be replaced, has gone missing, etc.

Automation Serves Both Businesses And Employees

Several of the technological implementations, including the RFID tagging, the Smart Board and integrated HR and payroll system was funded by Employment and Employability Institute’s (e2i) Inclusive Growth Programme (IGP).

The funding dispersed to KidZania Singapore was meant to help automate manual processes and increase productivity. Because the grant is tied to a firm commitment on the company’s part to pass on these productivity gains in the form of salary increments, both full-time and part-time staff at KidZania Singapore were able to get pay increments.

Because some of the more manual tasks have been automated, KidZania Singapore is better able to cope with the challenges of management of staff and uniforms, so staff can focus their attention and energy towards a more important job – delivering the KidZania Singapore experience to children.

HR Best Practices

KidZania Singapore’s partnership with e2i did not stop at productivity funding through IGP. KidZania Singapore has partnered e2i to hold two mass recruitment fairs and collaborated on a 10-week Place-and-Train programme to train newcomers to take up leadership roles. KidZania Singapore is also very open to hiring mature workers, back-to-work women and fresh graduates without working experience, as long as they have a positive attitude.

Such inclusive workplace practices are certainly of merit and KidZania Singapore was recently given an award at the National Trades Union Congress’ (NTUC) May Day Awards 2017 under the Future Growth, Jobs and Skills category, honouring partners who advance the interests of working people in Singapore.

Fun Times At KidZania Singapore

I had so much fun experiencing KidZania Singapore and learning more about the inner workings of this amazing world. I loved how realistic everything was, down to the tiniest detail, and also, the energy and excitement of the people who work here, making KidZania Singapore what it is.

If a place like this can ignite such wonder and amazement in a 20-something year old like me, what more a young child!

[caption id="attachment_28264" align="alignnone" width="1600"] Some of the friendly Zupervisors at KidZania Singapore[/caption]

If you haven’t been to KidZania Singapore already, make a date with this world with your nieces, nephews or your own kids! Explore the world of possibilities with them. You never know what you might ignite in them during your time there!

What’s more, they even have an adults-only event titled Back-to-Kidz for adults just like myself to relive our childhood aspirations, and job hop as we please! The next run is scheduled for 4 August 2017, and tickets are on sale at Website

NTUC members get a 20% off return voucher, details here.

This article is written in collaboration with the Labour Movement to encourage good HR practices.

Get Nauti In August On Board This Party Ship – The Largest Foam And Water Gun Party At Sea

Party people, if you’re still recovering from your post-Ultra blues, here’s something that will cheer you up!

There’s another party happening very soon, and this one will take you off Singapore island.

[caption id="attachment_28316" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Poseidon 2016[/caption]

Ready Set Sail is back again, and it’s bigger, better, and more exciting than ever! The first, largest foam and water gun party at sea, this two-day event will be happening on 26 – 27 August.

Some of you may remember 2016’s glorious Poseidon. After a successful maiden voyage, this cruise party will be returning once again, bringing a party experience like no other to those of you who love fun and are always on the hunt for new thrills.

A Beer Carnival On Board

This year, Ready Set Sail will be premiering its first ever beer carnival at sea. Expect games including ping pong, jenga, card games, roulette, and a dunking machine, but with a boozy twist. After all, isn’t everything more fun with a beer?

[caption id="attachment_28699" align="alignnone" width="2000"] Cruise highlights[/caption]

After the beer carnival, participate in the largest foam and water gun party at sea!

Have a splashing good time to the beats of renowned DJs in the industry the likes of up-and-coming DJ Yang & Dangerous, who will be spinning to mainstream EDM, bootlegs and mash ups. Groove and dance into the wee hours of the morning to other award-winning guest DJs like Mixmischiefs, Nicolette, Joshua Dillon, Debi, and more!

[caption id="attachment_28200" align="alignnone" width="1511"] DJ Line-up at Ready Set Sail 2017[/caption]

This party promises to be bigger and better than the one before, and everyone on board can look forward to being treated to a unique adventure!

A Priceless Adventure

Wondering what the price tag is on this one-of-a-kind experience? This experience will cost between $45/person (no cabin, 2 beers, all meals) for a normal tier ticket, to $2000/party of 10 if you book yourselves some VVIP tier tickets. As with any cruise, party packages are inclusive of drinks and all meals.

[caption id="attachment_28201" align="aligncenter" width="681"] Early Bird Prices (Valid till 22 July 2017)[/caption]

A cruise party, minus that hefty price tag you’ll find with many others like it, this is the most affordable way to check “cruise party”off your bucket list!

A total experience that begins with you boarding a ship, and literally drifting away from all your problems on shore, you’re bound to have an amazing time drinking, partying, and playing at Ready Set Sail!

[caption id="attachment_28206" align="aligncenter" width="891"] Poseidon 2016[/caption]

For the best price, purchase your tickets NOW as early bird promotions are now on sale! This window will close on 22nd July 2017, so make sure you book your tickets early to avoid any disappointment!

To purchase tickets to Ready Set Sail 2017, click here. Take note that all ticket prices are not inclusive of a $45 embarkation fee per pax.

Also read Skip The Hawker Centre, You Can Now Get Your Nasi Lemak And Chendol Fix At McDonalds

Cool SIA, You Can Now Enjoy Local Favourites Like Laksa On Your Next Trip Overseas

Can’t get enough of local food?

Pretty soon, locals and foreigners alike will get to enjoy local favouites when they fly Singapore Airlines.

The #2 airline in the world will be changing up its menu as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations. A collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board, this will be happening in conjunction with the Singapore Food Festival.

Starting next month, local delicacies near and dear to our hearts like chicken rice and carrot cake will be served as part of SIA’s new in-flight menu.

[caption id="attachment_27684" align="aligncenter" width="991"] Laksa (Image Credit: Chicken Rice (Image Credit: Fried Carrot Cake (Image Credit: Changi’s Jewel Is Like A Futuristic Playground – Bounce On Sky Nets And Play Among The Clouds

(Header Image Source:

SIA La, Singapore Airlines Clinches #2 Spot In Global Airline Ranking

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has been named the world’s second best airline at the 2017 World Airline Awards. This comes shortly after Singapore’s Changi Airport was named the best airport in the world for the fifth year running.

The world’s Top 100 Airlines were announced by Skytrax at the World Airline Awards held at the Paris Air Show on June 20. Regarded the “Oscars of the aviation industry”, the Awards tracks customer satisfaction of airline services and performance globally.

Singapore Airlines rises one spot from last year, coming in after Qatar Airways which clinched the top honour this year.

This isn’t the only award our national carrier bagged at the Awards. The airline also took home the titles of Best Airline in Asia, the World’s Best Business Class seat and for having the Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering.

Singapore Airlines also ranked 5th for the World’s Best Cabin Staff, 3rd for World’s Best Inflight Entertainment, 9th for World’s Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness, 5th for World’s Best First Class, 3rd for World’s Best Business Class, 4th for World’s Best Premium Economy Class, and 5th for World’s Best Economy Class.

The rankings are based on a survey of 19.87 million airline passengers spanning 105 countries, conducted between August 2016 and May 2017.

Here are the top 20 airlines of 2017 ranked:

  1. Qatar Airways
  2. Singapore Airlines
  3. ANA All Nippon Airways
  4. Emirates
  5. Cathay Pacific
  6. EVA Air
  7. Lufthansa
  8. Etihad Airways
  9. Hainan Airlines
  10. Garuda Indonesia
  11. Thai Airways
  12. Turkish Airlines
  13. Virgin Australia
  14. Swiss Int’l Air Lines
  15. Qantas Airways
  16. Japan Airlines
  17. Austrian
  18. Air France
  19. Air New Zealand
  20. Asiana Airlines

Also read Changi’s Jewel Is Like A Futuristic Playground – Bounce On Sky Nets And Play Among The Clouds

(Header Image Source: WeekendGoWhere)

Hilton Garden Inn Opens In S’pore So You Can Live Luxe On A Budget During Your Next Staycay

Hilton Garden Inn opens in Singapore.

It’s the school holidays and what better way to enjoy it than with a luxe staycation?

Hilton Garden Inn, the award-winning, mid-priced hotel brand has finally opened its doors in Singapore.

Located in the heart of Little India, the hotel’s location is a dream come true for foodies. For cheap and good food, head to the nearby Tekka Market for a hearty meal of Indian food. If you are looking for a place to unwind and people-watch, hop over to Jewel Cafe and Bar for brunch. At night, you can even do some shopping at the nearby 24-hour Mustafa centre or have tipple in Clarke Quay.

Features and amenities at Hilton Garden Inn

[caption id="attachment_27082" align="alignnone" width="1500"]Hilton Garden Inn opens in Singapore. Image Credit: gym at Hilton Garden Hotel Singapore 24-hour gym (Image Credit: Hilton Garden Hotel Singapore)[/caption]

If you are feeling peckish, visit the Pavilion Pantry which stocks a selection of fresh and healthy snacks, cold beverages and ready-to-cook meals to keep your hunger at bay. Alternatively, dine at The Garden Grille restaurant which offers local and international favourites from the à la carte menu.

[caption id="attachment_27083" align="alignnone" width="1410"]Hilton Garden Inn Singapore's restaurant. The Garden Grille restaurant (Image Credit: 3 Belilios Road, Singapore, 219924
Contact no.: 6491 0500

Visit Mini World Heritage Sites For Only $17 – We Promise ‘Everything Is Awesome’

Legos – we played with them as children, and some of us still play with these colourful little bricks even as grown-ups.

If you’re a fan of Legos and the amazing things you can create with them, this exhibition will have you seeing these humble building blocks in a brand new light.

[caption id="attachment_27394" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Taj Mahal, India[/caption]

As part of ASEAN’s 50th anniversary celebrations, Lego has partnered up with the Piece of Peace executive committee to showcase Lego sculptures of various UNESCO world heritage listed sites. Singapore will be the first Southeast Asian country to play host to this UNESCO world heritage art exhibition, Piece Of Peace World Tour Singapore 2017, which will happen at Fort Canning Arts Centre on Jul 27 – Sep 3.

Already, over 2.9 million visitors have seen this exhibition.

[caption id="attachment_27398" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Basilica of Sagrada Família, Spain[/caption]

Expect a showcase of 34 Lego replicas of UNESCO heritage sites from 25 countries, and 9 more from ASEAN countries, which will be assembled by eight local builders. From Greece’s Acropolis of Athens to Australia’s Sydney Opera House, to Japan’s Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, these Lego replicas will leave you amazed by their intricacy and detail.

[caption id="attachment_27396" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Piazza del Duomo, Italy[/caption]

Entry on weekdays are tagged at $13 (child/senior) and $17 (adult), while weekend admission will set you back $15 (child/senior) or $19 (adult). Tickets are available for purchase at Apac Tix.

Here’s a taste of what else you might see at the art exhibition:

[caption id="attachment_27400" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, Japan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_27397" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Moai, Chile[/caption] [caption id="attachment_27404" align="aligncenter" width="960"] UNESCO World Heritage Sites[/caption]

Piece Of Peace World Tour Singapore 2017
Address: Fort Canning Arts Centre
Date:
27 Jul – 3 Sep 
Admission: Weekdays: $13 (child/senior), $17 (adult) | Weekends: $15 (child/senior) – $19 (adult)

Purchase tickets for Piece Of Peace World Tour Singapore 2017 here

Also read The Ultimate June/July Guide To Cool Hipster Dates

Changi’s Jewel Is Like A Futuristic Playground – Bounce On Sky Nets And Play Among The Clouds

Changi Airport–the pride and joy of Singapore.

The best airport in the world for the 5th year running, it looks like that title isn’t going anywhere, especially with the addition of lifestyle complex Jewel Changi Airport.

A Tourist Attraction In Its Own Right

[caption id="attachment_27101" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image Credit: plenty to do and see en route to our travels once this exciting project is up and running!

Beautiful on the outside, what lays within is even more amazing. Besides featuring an estimated 270 – 300 retail tenants (i.e. no lack of options when it comes to shopping and dining), what makes Jewel truly unique is that it’s also a playground for both adults and kids.

Canopy Park

The star of Jewel is undeniably Canopy Park, a 14,000 sq m space that occupies Jewel’s top floor.

Featuring bouncy sky nets, towering hedge mazes and so much more, the Canopy Park is an enchanting indoor garden that will ignite your sense of wonder, no matter your age!

Sky Nets

[caption id="attachment_27103" align="alignright" width="2048"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: We Are Days Away From Ultra Singapore – These Are The Acts S’poreans Are Hyped To See

(Header Image Source:

Best Couple Getaway – Discover Busan, Korea At Only $1600 Or Less

So you badly need a couple getaway from both of your hectic work schedules. But you can’t afford a long vacation because of miserable leave entitlement and budget constraint. Usual short trip destinations in Southeast Asia like Penang, Bali and Bangkok seem boring nowadays. Then how?

How about going somewhere further to Busan – the second largest city in Korea?

The trip to Busan isn’t as costly as you think. By taking just 2 days’ leave on Friday and Monday, you can enjoy the best of Busan as a couple at $1,600 or less. You can even do it all within 72 hours!

1. Affordable flights to Busan thanks to Air Asia

Air travel is so much cheaper and convenient now. A return air ticket to Busan via Korean Air will make you and your BF about $2,200 poorer. On the other hand, spend about half that amount by flying AirAsia.

[caption id="attachment_13675" align="alignnone" width="254"]busan-airfare-from-singapore Air Asia[/caption]

To be exact, you only need to pay $574 nett per pax for a return trip without check-in baggage!

2. Economical Airbnb accommodation

Hostels, budget hotels? These are so passe.

Welcome to the world of Airbnb, where you can find cosy rooms or apartments in convenient locations. All these at a fraction of the price of hotels! To make things easier for you, we’ve done the research on the best locations for a great couple stay in Busan.

Seomyeon Station

Seomyeon in Busan is like Myeongdong in Seoul, the Mecca for all things trendy. Shop till you drop in this hip district for great Korean fashion.

[caption id="attachment_13676" align="alignnone" width="1200"]seomyeon-busan-aerial-view Image Credit: JSs favourite things[/caption]

 

Furthermore, Seomyeon is also the commercial and transportation hub in the city. Staying in a private apartment near the station = great accessibility to major sights. From just $229 for 3 nights, you get to enjoy the convenience of staying in Nami’s sleek studio apartment!

Jungang Station

Jungang Station is located near to the largest port in Korea. In addition to stunning views of the Busan port, be close to the famous Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market and other Nampo-dong attractions by staying in this area.

[caption id="attachment_13679" align="alignnone" width="1464"]Image Credit: Skyscraper City Image Credit: Skyscraper City[/caption]

Boasting a superb location, the cosy W House2 is a steal you don’t want to miss from $291 for 3 nights!

­­­­­

Gwangan Station

Busan is famous for its beautiful beaches in Korea. In fact, the popular Busan Fireworks Festival is held every October along Gwangalli Beach, a 10-minute walk from Gwangan Station.

[caption id="attachment_13677" align="alignnone" width="2304"]Image Credit: Kirsten Image Credit: Kirsten[/caption]

Stay at Yurim’s cool sea-view apartment located right next to Gwangan station from a reasonable $317 for 3 nights. Besides the convenient access to colourful fireworks, why not take a romantic stroll with your partner on the white sandy beach? Furthermore, explore the city at ease with the nearby subway and buses.

3. Highlights of Busan in 72 hours

Best part of this trip? All the lovely Busan spots don’t require an admission fee, woah!

Day 1: Central district (Jung-gu)’s Jagalchi Market, Gukje Market, Nampo-dong, BIFF Square

Take it easy on your first day, since you’ve just landed in the morning after an overnight flight. Thus, all the activities will be around the 2 subway stations on Busan Subway orange line 1: Jagalchi and Nampo stations.

You can just alight at one station and move around on foot the whole day as these attractions are all within close proximity to one another.

[caption id="attachment_13788" align="alignnone" width="4928"]jagalchi-market-busan Image Credit: Box of Photos[/caption]

You deserve a hearty breakfast to warm your souls and stomachs. After dumping your baggage at the apartment, head to the iconic Jagalchi Market.

A trip to Busan isn’t complete if you don’t visit the largest seafood market in Korea, the best place to represent the port city.

Tuck into the freshest raw fish here at unbelievable prices. If raw stuff isn’t your thing, have them cooked in one of the many restaurants lined on the shore side road. Pay only 20,000 KRW or less (S$24.20) for a sumptuous seafood meal for 2.

Directions: Walk about 5 minutes from Jagalchi Station exit 10.

[caption id="attachment_13792" align="alignnone" width="1200"]Image Credit: Lobsterpaints Image Credit: Lobsterpaints[/caption]

Proceed to Gukje Market just across the street from Jagalchi Market for another round of feasting and shopping.

As one of the largest traditional markets in Korea, it’s likely you will lose your way here. Nonetheless, getting lost is part of the fun for a great trip!

Do follow the locals and sit on the stools by the alley to try some yummy street food, just like what you see above!

Directions: Jagalchi Station exit 7. Go 30m, turn left, and walk straight for 5 minutes to reach the market.

[caption id="attachment_13794" align="alignnone" width="3128"]Image Credit: Nadia Nadira Image Credit: The Travelogues of Nadia[/caption]

Korean movie fans must visit the famous BIFF Square where the annual Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) is held.

Spot hand paintings of famous movie celebrities along the street. Sink your teeth into the addictive Korean street snacks.

A must-try includes the nutritious Busan specialty – Ssiat Hotteok, a sweet pancake filled with a variety of healthy seeds for the extra crunch.

[caption id="attachment_13795" align="alignnone" width="1334"]ssiat-hotteok-busan Image Credit: Mango Plate’s eksk@.@[/caption]

Also, shop to your heart’s content along the cultural and fashion streets of Nampo-dong, across from the BIFF Square. This is where you will find a wide range of shops selling everything from bargains to luxury items.

Directions: Nampo Station exit 1 or 3.

Day 2: Beaches to the east of Busan – Haeundae and Gwangalli

Haeundae Beach is probably the most famous beach in the country. During the peak season from June to August, throngs of domestic tourists flock to the white sandy beach to chill from the summer heat. Have fun playing traditional games such as Korean wrestling, seesaw jumping and tug-of-war at the Folk Square.

[caption id="attachment_13796" align="alignnone" width="1200"]Image Credit: Wikimedia Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Directions: Haeundae Station (Busan Subway green line 2), Exit 5. Walk straight for about 500m.

After some beach fun, proceed to a stunning tour of Haedong Yonggungsa. Located on the coast of northeast Busan, this is a rare find of a temple by the sea. Climb 108 steps from the entrance to the rocky landscape, leading you to the main sanctuary where the ancient temple sits. Soak in the gorgeous coastal views and snap away.

[caption id="attachment_13797" align="alignnone" width="1200"]haedong-yonggungsa-busan Image Credit: Two Clowns Tripping[/caption]

If you can, climb all the way up the steep flight of stairs to pray at the temple. Reward yourself with a picturesque bird’s eye view overlooking Haedong Yonggungsa.

Directions: Take bus 181 from Haeundae Station (Busan Subway green line 2) Exit 7. Alight at the bus stop outside the temple. Follow the sign to the temple by walking about 10 minute.

Of course we shouldn’t miss out Gwangalli Beach, well known for the spectacular lights show of the Gwangan Bridge at night. As mentioned earlier, you should time your trip to coincide with the Busan Fireworks Festival if you plan to visit in October.

[caption id="attachment_13798" align="alignnone" width="1200"]gwangalli-beach Image Credit: ‘Seoul’ful Re’Korea’tion[/caption]

This is a wonderful “paktor” (dating) spot where you can enjoy the fine white sand and splendid scenery! Relive your childhood and have fun playing fireworks on the beach. After all the romantic moments, cure your hunger pangs in the many nice restaurants and cafes around the area.

Directions: Gwangan Station (Busan Subway green line 2) exit 5. Follow the signs on the pavement and walk about 10 minutes to the beach.

Day 3: Gamcheon Cultural Village and Taejongdae Cliff Park in the south

Start your day with a visit to the quaint Gamcheon Cultural Village in the southwestern part of the city. Because the colorful houses are constructed in a staircase fashion on the foothills in this coastal village, it is affectionately nicknamed as Korea’s Machu Picchu and Korea’s Santorini.

[caption id="attachment_13803" align="alignnone" width="4628"]busan-gamcheon Image Credit: Visual Open Diary[/caption]

Allow yourself at least 2 hours to explore this artistic village. Take pretty couple shots in the village filled with vividly coloured murals & sculptures created by its residents.

Directions: Turn left from Toseong Station (Busan Subway orange line 1) exit 6 and go straight ahead till you reach the bus stop in front of Busan National University Hospital. Take the mini bus Saha 1-1, Seogu 2 or Seogu 2-2 to Gamcheon Elementary School Bus Stop (about 10 minute ride).

In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Taejongdae Cliff Park to the south of Busan’s coast. This natural site may be a bit out of the way but trust me, it’s definitely a must-do!

Due to time constraint, take the Danubi train and alight at Yeongdo Lighthouse for breathtaking view at the cliff.

 

[caption id="attachment_13804" align="alignnone" width="1200"]taejongdae-lighthouse-cliff-busan Image Credit: Bohwa Im[/caption]

You can also savour fresh sashimi caught directly from the sea. For Instagram-worthy shots, sit on the edge of the cliff and get your partner to snap lovely photos of you here.

Or better still, bring a selfie-stick along and pose for the most enviable couple shot in a perfect natural setting!

Directions: From Nampo Station (Busan Subway orange line 1) exit 6, walk straight for 30 seconds to the bus stops opposite Lotte Department Store. Take bus 8, 30, 88 or 88-A from the second nearest bus stop here and alight at Taejongdae Station (30 to 40 minute ride).

Day 4: F & E till your flight home departs at 10.35 am

Technically speaking, you don’t have much time today since you need to be at the airport around 9 am. The traditional markets generally open from 8 am and shops even later. So have a hearty last breakfast at a restaurant you fancy before saying goodbye to wonderful Busan.

Summary of your expected expenditure

Generally, Busan is not an expensive city, so you will be able to enjoy the scenery and delicious food it has to offer with $1,600 for 2 comfortably. Here’s a table to summarize the estimated expenditure for your couple getaway:

Generally, Busan is not an expensive city. It is possible to enjoy an awesome couple getaway in a destination that you never thought was possible. Without spending too much money and time, you will be able to enjoy the scenery and delicious food at only $1,600 for 2 comfortably.

With such a romantic trip, it’s inevitable that sparks will fly and your relationship will only strengthen. Just a PSA here: don’t forget to bring along and use contraception such as Durex.

Hurry and plan your next short getaway to Busan now before the airfare rises!

Also, read 5 Tips For A Cheaper Staycation In Sentosa

This Boutique Hostel In Tiong Bahru Is Nothing Short Of A Visual Feast

Tiong Bahru is known for a couple of things. Chiefly, brunch. And coffee.

But here’s one other thing you should look out for the next time you’re in the area: COO Hostel, a place that’s nothing short of coo-l. Not only does it look great, it’s affordable too!

[caption id="attachment_24957" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Entrance of COO Hostel (Image Credit: (Image Credit: COO Hostel offers 24-hour reception daily (Image Credit: COO Hostel has its own bistro! (Image Credit: (Image Credit: You pay $30 per room/bed at COO Hostel (Image Credit: This room comes with a built-in mirror! (Image Credit: Toilet facilities (Image Credit: Punny soap and shampoo dispensers (Image Credit: Mingle with fellow guests at the open terrace (Image Credit:

Also read, This New Black And White Hotel In Singapore Is A Minimalist’s Dream Come True

This New Black And White Hotel In Singapore Is A Minimalist’s Dream Come True

Singapore is no stranger to boutique hotels. They’re fun, uniquely designed–a welcomed break from the standard fare you find at more well-established hotel chains.

For those of you who are always on the lookout for somewhere to have a stay-cay with your beau, your gal pals, or even your family, there’s a new player in town, and it’s a minimalist’s dream come true.

Get your cameras and phones ready, ‘cuz we foresee lots of insta-worthy photo opportunities!

[caption id="attachment_24454" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Exterior of Hotel Mono (Image Credit: Reception Area (Image Credit: Single Room (Image Credit: Twin Room (Image Credit: Bathroom (Image Credit: Double Room/Double Plus (Double Plus has bigger windows for a better view) (Image Credit: Studio Room (Image Credit: Family Room (Image Credit: Family Room (Image Credit: Hotel Mono
Address: 18 Mosque Street, Singapore
Contact no.: 6326 0430
A Super Insta-Worthy and Trendy Hotel Has Just Opened In Singapore

(Top Image Credit: