Tag: hotel

6 Experiences At This M’sian Island Paradise – And It Costs Less Than SGD100 To Fly There

When we think of an island getaway in Singapore, Sentosa immediately pops into mind. But let’s be real—with themed attractions and man-made beaches, is it really the natural beach getaway that we sometimes crave for?

While there’s Bali and Phuket, another little known paradise is Langkawi, also known as the Jewel of Kedah, Malaysia. Merely a 1.5 hr flight from Singapore (and usually less than SGD100 for return flight tickets), Langkawi is a duty-free island that receives more than 3 million tourists annually.

Lucky for us, another world-class hotel has joined the western coastline of Langkawi just recently. That hotel is none other than Aloft Hotel Pantai Tengah, which adds to Aloft’s fleet of over 150 hotels open in over 20 countries.

Having said that, the location of Aloft Hotel Pantai Tengah and personalised features of the hotel to its landscape helps it to stand out and hold its own charm and uniqueness.

On top of Aloft Hotel Pantai Tengah’s aesthetics and facilities, there are also other experiences that will make your trip to Langkawi a memorable one. 

1. Sail on a yacht out onto the Andaman sea and have a sunset dinner cruise

Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah collaborates with local tours such as Crystal Yacht Holidays to provide guests with a chartered yacht experience, at a lower packaged rate.

The package is all-inclusive, with a BBQ buffet dinner, free flow drinks, and a salt water natural jacuzzi. The cool sea breeze and beautiful sunset is sure to melt your worries away and give you the recharge you need.

Tip: Be careful not to run on the yacht as it can get a little slippery. And try to get a good seat in front of the yacht for an unobstructed view of the horizon.

2. Experience a 4-hr jet ski adventure

If you haven’t hopped onto a jet ski before, you’re missing out! It may look (and sound) scary at first, but the guide from MegaWaterSports (another partner of Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah) is very assuring.

He tells us that there’s nothing to worry about, as long as we maintain our speed and ride fast through the waves. The slower you go, the easier it is for the waves to jerk or knock the jet ski. But then again, who would want to go slow on such an adventure?

Our top speed on the jet ski is about 60km/hour, which is more than enough to keep that adrenaline rush, but also safe enough for you to not completely lose it.

We make several stops throughout the 4-hour ride with our guide leading the way and also keeping watch on us to make sure we’re all comfortable on the jet ski. 

Each stop has a special experience, such as eagle watching, swimming in a part of the Andaman sea with an unusually high salt concentration, getting up close with the limestone formations, walking along a private beach, and more. 

Tip: Bring along sunblock because you’ll definitely be needing it! And don’t worry about getting your gadgets wet, your personal items can be kept in a waterproof bag in the jet ski’s front compartment.

3. Take a dip in the largest freshwater lake in Malaysia

Dayang Bunting Lake is one of the stops during the 4-hr jet ski ride and it’s too interesting to not mention it as a separate point. The Island of the Dayang Bunting (Pregnant Maiden) is the second largest island within the Langkawi archipelago (fancy word that means group of islands) and it contains the largest freshwater lake in Malaysia.

The location of the lake is extremely unique because it’s right next to the sea, and only separated by a thin ridge of limestone. 

The name of the lake is inspired by a local legend of a fairy princess who married a human prince and got pregnant after drinking the water from the lake. The outline of the hills around the lake also resembles the shape of a pregnant maiden lying on her back.

Visitors can swim in the lake, rent a kayak or paddle boat, or just sit by the deck and dip your feet in the cool water. And we were extra, extra careful to not swallow any water from the lake. You know, just in case.

Tip: You have to climb up about 100 or so steps to get to the lake. It’s not too physically tiring and will take about 10 minutes.

However, there are a lot of wild monkeys along the steps who are curious and not afraid to grab your personal belongings, especially if you’re carrying food. They’re not aggressive, but it’s best to hold your things close to you and do not engage with them.

4. Dine on Malaysian heritage and Western favourites

Nook at Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah is tastefully designed with an array of geometric patterns and bold matching colours. More importantly, their all-day dining offers a selection of Malaysian cuisine and some classic international favourites.

For dinner, we got to feast on some authentic Kelantanese dishes and I still occasionally have cravings for their white percik chicken (broiled chicken in sweet coconut gravy).  

Tip: Instead of taking cordial juice during breakfast, look for the fresh juice bar where they will mix fruits of your choice and you can have a customised fresh drink!

5. Chill at the only elevated infinity pool in Langkawi

Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah currently happens to be the only hotel along the Langkawi Western coast that has an elevated infinity pool. There’s also a sunken pool lounge area and jacuzzis (inside large water features).

Tip: Order a signature cocktail from the Splash bar to complete your sunken pool lounge experience. We tried the Passion Portion, Absolutely Fabulous, and Mojito Mix Berry—each priced about SGD6—no regrets.

6. Take advantage of Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah’s world class facilities

After a long day of activities, Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah has the right facilities you’d need. With complimentary high-speed WiFi connectivity and 49” Smart TVs, you can choose to rest in your room (all of the hotel’s 208 rooms have its own balcony).

Or head down to the Re:mix^SM lobby for a game of billiards and get a drink at the W XYZ^SM bar. If you’re hungry for a midnight snack, you can also grab something from the 24/7 grab-and-go Re:fuel^SM. There’s also the fully equipped, 24-hour fitness centre, Re:charge^SM. 

Tip: If you’re travelling with kids and you want some alone time, take advantage of the hotel’s Kids Club that has board games, toys, art supplies and daily movie screenings.  Don’t worry, your kids will be under the supervision of trained talents there too.

Itching for your island paradise retreat? Get more information about Aloft Langkawi Pantai Tengah here, or email [email protected].

Header Image Credit: Discover SG

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This New Shophouse Hotel In S’pore Doubles Up As A Co-Working Space For Entrepreneurs

With Singapore cementing itself as one of the hottest tourist destinations as well as a leading business hub in SouthEast Asia, our island country is no stranger to tourists and expats – which also means that we have no shortage of hotels, hostels and inns.

Hidden away in a corner of Ann Siang Hill, a short walking distance from Maxwell Food Centre, is Tribe Theory Venture Hotel.

A VENTURE HOTEL FOR START-UPS AND ENTREPRENEURS

Tribe Theory Venture Hotel was created to be a place for entrepreneurs to have a comfortable and affordable place to stay, as well as connect and engage with like-minded people on the same entrepreneurial journey and work effectively.

Conveniently located in the heart of the city, the hotel is within walking distance of the Central Business District, Maxwell Food Centre, and Chinatown which is home to Singapore’s first Hindu Temple as well as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum.

The lobby is small but cosy. It is a shophouse after all.

Checking in is made simple with an iPad for guests to input their details. (Did you know they accept payment in cryptocurrency too?)

As you venture further into the hotel past the lobby, you’ll come across a giant world map on the wall to your right, with numerous pins by past hotel guests.

Tribe Theory might be a capsule hotel, but it’s well-equipped. You’ll find the communal toilets and showers on the first level. There’s even a laundry area, because Singapore’s weather is notoriously humid.

As you head up the stairs, you’ll be greeted by an intricate logo of Tribe Theory.

There are 2 air-conditioned mixed dormitories that can accomodate up to 32 people comfortably in 28 affordable capsules.

If you’re wondering about storage, there are lockers provided for all guests.

Each capsule is cosy and comes equipped with a backrest, a small safe, a backlight and a reading light.

In the dormitory on the second level, there are 2 capsules that are bigger than the rest and can accomodate up to 2 people.

Past the dormitory on the second level and up the stairs, you’ll be able to look into the double-height ceiling in the common room on the first level.

Level 3 is where you’ll find the lounge which also serves as a breakfast area and co-working space.

A simple, complimentary breakfast is available for guests and it comes with free-flow coffee, tea, milk and juice, because every striving entrepreneur needs fuel.

Does this hotel not look incredibly cosy?

Tribe Theory Venture Hotel is a no-frills, entrepreneur-centric hotel that is easily accessible and affordable, so if you’re a budding entrepreneur travelling in or to Singapore, there’s no better place for you to stay.

Book your room here and we’ll see you at Tribe Theory!

Tribe Theory Venture Hotel
Address: 39 Ann Siang Rd, Singapore 069716
Contact no.: 6423 0237
Website

Also read The Ultimate Tourist’s Guide To Getting Around Singapore With Public Transport

(Header Image Source: DiscoverSG)

Forget Hyatt – Its Cooler, Younger Sister Has Arrived And It Has Ditched All The Hotel Cliches

A new hotel has popped up in the heart of our cultural crossroads. Specifically at the point where Kampong Glam, Little India, and the Bras Basah Bugis arts and entertainment hub cross paths.

Managed by the Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Andaz Singapore is the first Andaz hotel to open in Southeast Asia, joining its 17 other global counterparts.

Andaz Singapore has chosen to be situated closer to some of our cultural heritage sites such as Little India and Kampong Glam, making it one of the few luxury hotels that isn’t located along Orchard Road or Marina Bay.

The hotel draws inspiration from its surroundings, such as the vibrant shophouses and intimate alleys in Kampong Glam, and weaves this ambience into its interior design and atmosphere.

Andaz How You Make A Good Hotel Work

Andaz Singapore is located in DUO, an iconic pair of concave skyscrapers that’s right in front of Singapore’s very own Gotham building, Parkview Square. You can’t miss it.

If the concave design doesn’t catch your eye, the hexagonal windows surely will. Doesn’t it look like a honeycomb?

DUO is the largest integrated development in the Ophir-Rochor district. It comprises retail spaces, residences, offices, and the new Andaz Singapore hotel. It is directly connected to Bugis MRT station via underground pathways so navigation around Singapore is made easy.

Andaz Singapore has 342 contemporary guestrooms, including 26 suites, each fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame stunning views of the city.

As with every Andaz hotel, guests get to enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and mini-bar, refreshments in the Sunroom, and access to the Andaz Lounge Hour from 4pm to 6pm daily where guests can help themselves to the complimentary red and white wines and Andaz Pale Ale.

For the fitness buffs, there is a 24-hour gym so you can work out at any time of the day.

Which hotel is complete without a pool? Andaz Singapore has an outdoor pool on the 25th floor offering amazing views of the city!

For meetings, corporate events, weddings and parties, there are four meeting venues collectively referred to as Alley on 3, spanning 14,800 square feet in total.

There is a stunning ‘glass box’ event space known as The Glasshouse which looks amazing.

Andaz And Dining

Guests of Andaz have a wide variety of food and beverage options to choose from. Alley on 25, 665°F, Mr. Stork and Pandan are ready to cater to every guest’s dining preference.

Alley on 25 is an all-day dining venue on level 25, offering different dining concepts, each centred around a food preparation method, a bar, and stunning sky-high views of the city.

665°F is a steakhouse named after the temperature of their signature wood-fired oven. It is situated on the 38th floor of Andaz and specialises in gourmet meats and seafood.

Located on the 39th floor, Mr. Stork is a rooftop bar with an interesting teepee-hut seating as well as a bar pavilion offering 360-degree views of the city.

If you’re a guest at Andaz looking to grab a bite to go, Pandan offers savoury gourmet buns and drinks as well as chiffon cakes with various flavours such as bandung, durian, coconut, and black sesame.

Andaz Singapore is currently having an opening offer! Visit Andaz Singapore and get 20% off all guestrooms and an additional 3000 “World of Hyatt” bonus points (per stay, with a minimum of 2 nights booked).

Andaz Singapore
Address: 5 Fraser Street, SIngapore, 189354
Contact no.: 6408 1234
Website

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(Header Image Source: Andaz Singapore)

Singapore’s First Treehouse Hotel Opens In 2023, With Pandas And Otters As Neighbours

As children, many of us probably had fantasies of living in a treehouse. If you’re like us, you may have imagined yourself swinging from vine to vine like Tarzan, and being in the wild, living amongst animals.

Soon, that fantasy may turn into a reality.

Come 2023, a brand new resort will be opening in Mandai, and it promises treehouses, elevated cabins, and cottages at the doorstep of Singapore’s wildlife parks.

Operated by luxury resort operator Banyan Tree Holdings, this will be the only hotel serving the wildlife parks in Singapore.

Can someone say ‘Jurassic Park’?

Singapore’s Wildlife Right Outside Your Window

A dream come true for animal and nature lovers alike, this resort provides an “immersive stay close to nature” with Singapore’s wildlife parks right outside your window.

There will be an estimated 400 rooms, which include low-rise cottages, elevated cabins, and treehouses!

While this much is confirmed, the project’s design will only be selected by 2018.

(Header Image Source: Mandai Park Holdings)

This Smart Hotel Makes Staycations Cooler With Automated Check-In And ‘Transformer’ Beds

We’ve heard of Smartphones, smart watches… but have you heard of a smart hotel?

Yotel is another hotel to join the smart hotel scene in Singapore. With 6 locations across Europe and USA, this London-based hotel chain will be opening in Singapore very soon – first, at Orchard Road this year, and then at Jewel Changi Airport in 2018.

Recognisable by its signature futuristic purple lighting, Yotel is a micro-hotel inspired by first class travel. That is, the rooms – or ‘cabins’, as they call it at Yotel – contain elements reminiscent of a first class suite on an airline. If you’ve never flown first class, staying in one of these cabins will give you a glimpse of the experience, minus the hefty price tag.

What’s Smart About This Hotel

1. Smart Check-in

How do you make a hotel smart?

For starters, you automate certain processes.

Checking in at this hotel is fuss-free – and people-free. All you have to do is check in at one of their check-in kiosks. You can even use their mobile concierge app ‘SHAGGY’ for easy self check-in!

That said, don’t worry about getting no service during your stay at Yotel. With 24/7 mission control (i.e reception desk), there will always be a team on standby to assist you with whatever you need.

2. Smart Beds

Smart beds are another big part of Yotel’s charm.

A bed that transforms, these adjustable beds provide comfortable and variable postures, whether you’re in the mood to read, work, or just watch TV.

With a Serta mattress designed exclusively to work with Yotel’s automated ‘gliding’ bed mechanism, the SmartBed can go from a flat bed to a sofa with the mere touch of a button!

3. Super Fast Wifi

What’s a smart hotel without amazing wifi? Yotel promises “Free Super Fast Wifi”, so you’ll have no problem getting wifi on all your devices, whether you’re in your cabin, chilling at the pool deck/terrace, or are at any public space within Yotel’s premises.

Aside from the smart features, Yotel also boasts a fully equipped gym that’s open 24/7, and a pool deck and terrace for you to chill at!

Cabins At Yotel

Premium Queen

Planning a staycay with your beau? Take your pick between the Premium Queen, Premium Queen View, and Premium Queen View Deck.

The three are similar, coming equipped with a queen sized SmartBed, a Technowall with mood lighting and a 40” HD smart TV, a Rain shower, as well as all your other standard hotel amenities.

The main difference between the 3 is that the Premium Queen View Deck comes with both stunning views and a nice balcony, the Premium Queen View comes with a view, and the Premium Queen comes with neither, being the most basic of the three.

Premium Queen With Bunk

Travelling with a child in tow, or got a third-wheeler among you? Opt for the Premium Queen with Bunk, which comes with a queen sized bed and an additional bunk bed.

Once again, there is the option to go with a room with a view or a room without one. The amenities are essentially the same as the other Premium Queen rooms, with the exception of the extra bunk bed.

King Deck

Got a party of three but want to live like kings and queens? This room will be perfect for your needs.

It comes with a king sized bed, unbeatable views of the city, a balcony, and all the other stuff you get in the previous rooms, including a Technowall with mood lighting and a 40” HD smart TV, and a Rain shower.

VIP View Suite

And finally, the best for the last.

Situated on the top floor, the VIP Suite is the most luxurious cabin at Yotel. Suitable for a party of 4, aside from the features you’ll find in all the previous rooms, a sick view and a balcony, you get a kitchenette, a dining room, a living room, an extra large bathroom, a king sized bed and a queen sofa bed, and 2 smart TVs – one 40″ and one 55″.

Talk about living large!

Be sure to keep a lookout for Yotel! Opening soon, this is another place to keep in mind for your next staycay.

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(Header Image Source: Yotel)

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

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

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.

A Super Insta-Worthy and Trendy Hotel Has Just Opened In Singapore

Looking for a new place for a quick stay-cay? Look no further than the trendy and very insta-worthy Warehouse Hotel that just opened at Robertson Quay!

The hotel recently opened in January this year, and used to be a heritage building that was built in 1895.

[caption id="attachment_23086" align="aligncenter" width="1149"] Image Credit: The Warehouse Hotel 
Venue: 320 Havelock Road, Robertson Quay, Singapore 169628​
Price: ranging from $285 to $545 per night (depending on the room selection)
Reservations: (65) 6828​ 0000

An Unforgettable 2016 SG Race Experience You’ll Never Forget

My family and I are big car racing fans and we have been faithfully following the night race series in Singapore. Every year, we would crowd around the television at home, our eyes glued to the screen and our hearts racing. We would complain incessantly when the safety car comes around, or cheer in jubilation when our favourite race car driver, Sebastian Vettel, executes another perfect turn.

But this year, our night race experience will be different. We’ll be enjoying the best night race experience ever. Without having to squeeze with the crowd or sweat buckets, we can still witness the action live, in front of our eyes. Talk about having the best of both worlds!

High up on one of the highest floors of the Marina Mandarin Hotel, you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the track. In the comfort of air conditioning, watch the race unveil before your very eyes. From the balcony, you can watch as the cars rev their engines while getting ready. Before you know it, they’ll be off!

And there it will be, the sound that you’ve been anxiously waiting for throughout the night. The sweet rumble and roar of the engines. Louder, deeper, more thunderous and powerful than you’ve ever heard through the TV.

As you wait at the balcony eagerly for the race car drivers, the smell of burnt rubber will grow stronger and increasingly pungent. Watch in awe, jaw dropping, as the signature red and white Ferrari approach the bend. The cars will glint as the harsh and strong light projectors shine on it. Follow and track the cars around the track, and watch as drivers skillfully manoeuvre around the curves.

This is it. This is the night race viewing experience that you’ve been waiting for. It can’t get any better than this. Nothing beats real life, and we’re sure it’ll be an unforgettable night.

The best night race viewing experience you’ll ever get

Want to catch the night race but don’t want to sit in the sweltering heat of the stands or pits? Well, now you can! With Marina Mandarin’s Early Bird Trackview Room Package, you’ll get to watch the race from the comfort of your own hotel room!

Marina Mandarin Deluxe Rooms

Deluxe rooms which include one king or two twin beds, and an attached balcony with the best view of the track, are available at a special price of $600+ per night.

Marina Mandarin Premier Rooms

Premier rooms are also available at $650+ per night. These rooms are located on higher floors, which will guarantee you a better view of the track and the city skyline.

And if that’s not tempting enough, you’ll also enjoy daily buffet breakfasts, free in-room wi-fi and late checkout (subject to availability), when you book either rooms during this promotional early bird period!

Marina Mandarin’s Early Bird Trackview Room Package

The Marina Mandarin’s Early Bird Trackview Room Package is definitely one that’s not to be missed. Hurry, rooms are running out fast! Book now and you’ll soon find yourself standing on the balcony of your very own hotel room, waiting to hear the glorious roar of the cars! Nothing beats real life.

Marina Mandarin Early Bird Package
When: 12 September 2016 – 22 September 2016
Tel: +65 6845 1000
Website: 

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