Tag: MALAYSIA

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

Also Read: Getting Hitched? Here Are 10 S’pore Wedding Videographers To Capture Your Special Day

Need A Quick Getaway? One Of The World’s Largest Waterparks Is Only A 2-Hour Drive From S’pore

It’s the school holiday season so you know what that means!

Time to pack your bags and take your family on a road trip because one of the largest waterparks in the world is opening in Desaru and it’s only a 2 hour drive from Singapore!

https://www.facebook.com/DCAWP/videos/1095250830642267/

Get Your Splash On

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark opens 15 November 2018 and we are not exaggerating on how amazing this waterpark is turning out to be.

Set against the backdrop of a traditional Malay fishing village, Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark is home to 5 playing zones and over 20 wet and dry rides, slides and attractions. There’ll never be a dull moment in the sun!

Here’s a sneak peek of what to expect once the waterpark officially launches on 15 November:

1. One Of The World’s Largest Tidal Wave Pools

Holding more than four million gallon of water over nearly three acres, the tidal wave pool is a zone on its own! The Tidal Wave Beach is one of largest wave pools in the world with some of the world’s biggest man-made waves. Yes, waves that reach up to 3m in height!

For that reason, everyone is required to wear a life vest and are not allowed to cross beyond a marked line.

Guests can relax in luxury and enjoy the wave pool views from the Beachside Cabanas, or lounge along the 170-meter-long sandy shoreline of Tidal Wave Beach. But honestly, who cares about the beach when there’s an amazing wave pool to dip in.

2. Water Slides Designed For Kids

Remember when you weren’t allowed on most rides when you were younger due to the height requirements?

Well this waterpark designed their rides with kids in mind. In addition to the standard water play structure, complete with mini water slides and giant splash bucket, there are also water slides specially designed for younger kids. So they won’t miss out on all the fun!

The slides are scaled down to a small version so that kids can have a go at it.

Kids Ahoy is a dedicated children’s zone with three separate age-appropriate play areas filled with water play equipment and a combined total of 13 different water slides designed for our younger guests. This zone is a splashing favourite for the waterpark’s younger guests.

3. Rollercoaster Flume Ride

We’re most excited for this ride!

The Kraken’s Revenge is a combination of a roller coaster and splashing flume ride that takes you up 30 metres above ground and spinning through a full 360º horizontal loop, followed by a diving 27-metre drop. Riders can reach speeds up to 70km/h as they plummet to a splashing finish.

4. 4 Signature Water Slides To Increase Your Adrenaline Levels

Head over to the left section of the waterpark to ride the 4 main crazy water slides that will sweep riders at the steepest angles and fastest speeds giving an unparalleled feeling of weightlessness.

Ride with friends and see them scream their lungs off.

5. Learn How To Surf

For those who want to surf but too lazy to travel all the way to Bali, ride the waves at Surf Wall – a safe and high-energy surf simulator where surfing beginners or enthusiasts can catch and ride a radical artificial wave.

Take Us Away!

Desaru is known for their pristine beaches and resorts. If you’ve never been, here are some suggested ways to get there!

By Car

Driving to Desaru takes around 2 hours from Singapore Checkpoints via Senai–Desaru Expressway. Do remember to prepare your Touch N Go card to pay toll when entering Malaysia.

Paid parking is available next to the waterpark. However, if you do intend on finding a hotel to stay for the night, the nearest option is Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast which is located just next to the waterpark. Other resorts near to the waterpark are Tunamaya Beach & Spa Resort (Desaru Coast) and Sand & Sandals Resort & Spa which are located a 5-minute drive away.

By Coach

Coach from Singapore available at Singapore Flyer. Round trip tickets from S$36.33. Visit HERE for more info.

By Ferry

You can also book a 30 minute ferry ride from Changi Ferry Terminal to Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Kota Tinggi for $26. The tickets can be easily booked online at DirectFerries.com.

Do note that Desaru is still a 30-45 minute ride away from the ferry terminal, so do check for alternative transportation that will bring you there!

Can this new waterpark rival our Wild Wild Wet or Adventure Cove?

Guess we’ll just have to wait and see!

Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark
Address: Desaru Coast, No. 4 Jalan Danau, Desaru Coast, 81930 Bandar Penawar,  Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Thurs – Sun: 10am – 6pm, park closed from Monday to Wednesday
Admission Prices: Adult RM151 | Child (below 12 years old) & Senior (Age 60+) RM113 | Toddler (below 3 years old) FREE
Website

Also Read The Flower Dome Is Decked With Disney Tsum Tsums And Over 8,000 Poinsettias For Christmas

(Header Image Source: Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark)

Dear S’poreans, Let’s Be Considerate Neighbours And Not Visit M’sia On 8 And 9 May

May is going to be an especially important month for our Malaysian friends.

The 14th Malaysian General Election is set to take place on 9 May 2018, where members of the 14th Parliament of Malaysia will be elected.

A Facebook post published yesterday (22 April 2018) by Singaporean user Zax Jabronee Lui has gone viral.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10155151389746260&set=a.452772766259.245829.603016259&type=3

His day-old post has garnered 161 likes and has been shared 2,055 times by Singaporeans and Malaysians alike, at the time of writing.

The post is an earnest plea for Singaporeans to refrain from going to Johor Bahru unless absolutely necessary.

The aim is to free up immigration and customs and ensure a smooth entry for Malaysians returning to vote, as well as encourage Malaysians working in Singapore to return to vote.

Let us do our friends a favour and spread the word.

Also read Here Are 5 Travel Options For M’sians Working In S’pore To #PulangMengundi

(Header Image Source: Malay Mail Online)

The Ultimate Guide To Cafe Hopping In Melaka – 17 Hipster Cafes That Will Give You #Goodvibes

Bored of the sights and sounds of Singapore, and frankly need a short getaway from everything? The understated charm of Melaka awaits, just a bus ride away!

More than just a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a vibrant historical past and beautiful architecture, Melaka is undoubtedly a foodie’s paradise – whether it be street snacks, cafe grub or quick eats by the roadside.

The list of tastebud teasers is growing as we speak, so we’ve wasted no time in bringing you this list of cool cafes that’ll surround you with all kinds of #goodvibes.

1. Calanthe Art Cafe (Pork-free)

Tucked away in a quiet alley, stepping into this cafe is akin to entering another world.

A master of revival, this is where television sets are reborn as aquariums, antique furniture is given a new lease of life, and timeless quotes artfully adorn the walls.

Must-try: Baboon Beef Burger, Oriental Chicken Burger, Pork Belly Burger, Terriyaki Porkchop Burger, Cheese Burger, Mango Smoothie, Fresh Juices

The Baboon House
Address: 89 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Kampung Bukit Cina, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 10am – 5pm; Closed on Tue

3. Geographer Cafe (Halal)

Must-try: Unique and tasty coffee blends

Mods Cafe
Address: 14 Jalan Tukang Emas , 75200 Malacca, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 6pm

5. The Daily Fix Cafe and Restaurant (Pork-free)

The cafe’s retro decor with painted blinds, wooden sofas and potted plants all add a touch of je ne sais quoi that makes this cafe stand out. Together with their delicious pancakes and mean cups of coffee, The Daily Fix has us pledging our loyalty for a long time to come.

Must-try: Pandan Gula Melaka Pancakes, Durian Pancakes, Salted Egg Pancakes, Durian Cheesecake, Duck Aglio Olio

The Daily Fix
Address: 55 Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 11.30pm; Sat – Sun: 8.30am – 11.30pm

6. Locahouz Breakfast and Brunch Restaurant

An oasis of cool comfort away from Melaka’s hot and busy streets, the sister cafe of Baboon House offers a Western-style menu too, albeit with greater emphasis on desserts.

An antique shop that doubles as a port-of-call for hungry diners, here is where you can enjoy simple, authentic Malaysian fare in a cosy and homely environment.

The friendly pakcik and makcik prepare the food on the spot, ensuring that the ingredients are fresh and each dish is piping hot. If you’re vegan, this place offers tofu options as well.

Must-try: Laksa, Lontong, Nasi Lemak, Nasi Ambeng

Sayyid Antique & Cafe
Address: 74 Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 8.30am – 5.30pm; Closed on Tue

8. The Stolen Cup

A quaint hole-in-the-wall coffee stop along Jonker Walk, The Stolen Cup has stolen our hearts with its rustic interior decorated with wooden planks, old clocks and posters.

Besides the barista specialty of iced gula melaka coffee, enjoy their freshly-toasted, crispy croissants which go down with a buttery crunch.

Must-try: Iced gula melaka latte, croissants

The Stolen Cup
Address: 21A Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Malacca, Malaysia
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 9am – 9.30pm; Closed on Tue

9. Backlane Coffee

Must-try: Mr Owl Coffee (owl-shaped coffee ice cubes), Pesto Pizza, Teh Tarik Macaron, Passionfruit Surprise Macaron, Salted Caramel Tart, Raspberry and Praline Mille-Feuille, Backlane Passion (passionfruit cream with chocolate mousse on a white chocolate base)

Backlane Coffee
Address: 129 Jalan Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon – Thu, Sun: 9.30am – 11.30pm; Fri & Sat: 11am – 12am

10. Ola Lavanderia Cafe

Well-located within walking distance of the heritage site, this all-white, minimalistic cafe is perfect for a pop of caffeine.

What’s best is it doubles as a launderette – at only RM 4.80, pop your feet up while your clothes get washed, folded and ironed. Cue Instagram hashtag #taitailife.

While you’re here, be sure to order their famed cheesecakes.

Must-try: White Melaka Cheesecake, All Day Breakfast

Ola Lavanderia Cafe
Address: 25 Jalan Tukang Besi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 8am – 5pm; Sun: 8am – 1pm

11. Handmade Bakery Cafe (Halal)

Upon entering this cafe, you’ll be hit with the ridiculously yummy fragrance of freshly baked breads, pastries and cakes.

Sweet treats aside, the cafe serves up a large range of savoury dishes such as pizza and salad which will please your growling tummy.

Must-try: Chocolate Guinness Cake, Baked Polish Cheesecake, Tunisian Orange Cake, Oreo Volcano

Handmade Bakery Cafe
Address: 77 Jln Kota Laksamana 3/8, Taman Mahajaya, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm

12. The Coffee Jar (呷珈琲)

A quaint little coffee shop with its own mini roaster, its specialty, lightly roasted coffee, will tickle the tastebuds of third wave cafe-goers. Apart from coffee, The Coffee Jar also stocks a selection of pies and cakes for you to munch on while you sip away.

Must-try: Coffee, Earl Grey Tea Cheesecake, Jar of Pie (a unique in-house rendition of Shepherd’s Pie)

The Coffee Jar
Address: 38 Lorong Hang Jebat, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 6pm; Closed on Tue

13. Plat Kitchen

While it may be a coincidence that Plat rhymes with “fat”, this is where we wouldn’t mind piling on the calories at.

For those with more adventurous tastebuds, you’ll find the ingenious play on local ingredients very intriguing and tempting indeed.

Keeping up with the Joneses has never been this fun.

At this family-run music bar, kick back with their wide selection of freshly-squeezed health juices and alcoholic mixes. The music is the highlight here, so don’t drop by on an empty stomach! Come jam with the owner, Hawk, and his wife, Joan, as they sizzle up this vibrant, energetic bar with music ranging from blues to rock-and-roll.

Must-try: Freshly-squeezed health juices

Me & Mrs Jones Cafe
Address: 3 Jalan Hang Kasturi, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Daily: 7pm – 1am; Closed on Wed

16. TPC Home Cafe

At this cafe that’s housed in a homestay, you’ll truly feel like you have balik kampung. 

Retro wooden tables, paper lanterns and old-style Chinese swing doors adorn the establishment. Unlike the modern Western dishes served in most cafes, their home-style dishes are a refreshing change.

Sample their signature crystal dumplings, roast pork and egg over rice, and handmade noodles or ban mian.

As a added perk, they serve yummy cups of coffee too, with some even adorned with cool latte art.

Must-try: Crystal dumplings, handmade noodles (ban mian), roast pork rice with egg

TPC Home Cafe
Address: 35 Jalan Bukit Cina, Kampung Bukit China, 75100 Melaka, Malaysia
Opening hours: Tue – Sun: 12pm – 12am; Closed on Mon

17. Halia Inc. (Halal)

Located right next to the river and at the heart of the historical district, Halia Inc. is the perfect pit stop for a casual brunch.

The atmosphere is tranquil and restful, elevated by the spacious cafe’s high, open ceiling which gives it a touch of industrial chic. This cafe is much larger than most, so it’s the perfect stop if you’re touring with a big group of friends.

(Header Image Source: Nitalovestoeat Wordpress)

Lok² And Load – Prepare Yourselves For This All-You-Can-Eat Buffet For Only $24.60 Per Pax

Steamboat buffets are a Singaporean favourite, and for good reason.

There’s nothing quite like having everyone gathered around a steaming pot of food, taking turns to cook, and having the delicious smell of cooking food wafting through the air.

Steamboats are the perfect opportunity for family and friends to spend some quality time together. After all, they say a family that eats together stays together.

While there is an abundance of steamboat and grill joints around Singapore, Lok Lok is a rarity here. For the unacquainted, Lok Lok is a popular street food found across the border, in Malaysia.

To indulge in this popular street food, all you have to do is take your pick from a variety of food items on satay sticks. These are then cooked and then tossed into a cup of sauce, so you get piping hot food items coated in a thick, dense layer of sauce.

This ‘steamboat on a stick’ is not only cheap, it’s filling and delicious as well!

Malaysia Local Delights 

From Malaccan favourite Cincalok (fermented shrimp sauce) to crowd-pleaser garlic chilli, there’s a sauce here for every mood and every taste bud.

At Malaysia Local Delights, hungry foodies can choose 2 soup bases from a selection of 8. If you’re looking for the original peanut sauce, you’ll need to top up $6.

Can’t wait for you food to cook through? Fret not! Malaysia Local Delights provides a slew of cooked foods so you won’t have to starve while waiting!

No dinner is complete without dessert. At Malaysia Local Delights, there’s an all-you-can-eat ice-cream bar, so you can live your childhood fantasy of drowning in ice-cream!

Priced at $24.80 per pax on weekdays and $26.80 on weekends, it’s a steal compared to other overpriced all-you-can-eat buffets. If you’re looking for a spot that serves up affordable quality eats with a delicious twist, Malaysia Local Delights is definitely worth checking out!

Malaysia Local Delights
Address: 224 Tanjong Katong Road, S437014
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat 5pm – 1.30am, Sun & PH 11.30am – 12am
Contact no.: 6440 8378

Also read, This Korean BBQ Joint Serves Up Premium Meats So You Can Treat Mum Right This Mother’s Day

Traffic Forecasts For 2nd Link & Woodlands Causeway This Chinese New Year

If you’re heading to Johor Bahru (JB) this Chinese New Year, you’re definitely not alone. Welcome to the club for all motorists who will be utilizing the Causeway and the 2^nd Link. Like Sun Tzu heading to war, it’s best to enter JB with a solid strategy…by arming yourself with these.

We’re referring to these amazing traffic jam forecasts we’ve uncovered! This way, you’ll be able to plan your entry into JB with maximum efficiency.

Be assured that this forecast is pretty accurate, as the reference data is based on the traffic statistics in Chinese New Year 2016.

2 days before Chinese New Year – 26 January 2017 (Thursday)

As the eve of Chinese New Year is on 27 January 2017 (Friday), most Malaysians tend to return home the day before, which is 26 January 2017. This explains the spike in the traffic from Singapore to JB at both the Causeway and the 2^nd Link, which will start to build up from 2 pm onwards. It’s best to be a bit more kiasu (aka wiser) and set off earlier if you can.

Eve of Chinese New Year – 27 January 2017 (Friday)

On Chinese New Year’s eve, set your alarm clock to ring even earlier. As you can see from the graphs, traffic flowing into JB will build up as early as 4am. However, it’s possible that traffic may ease before evening as most people would already be at their reunion dinners.

Chinese New Year – 28, 29 January 2017 (Saturday, Sunday)

In the mornings of the 1^st and 2^nd day of Chinese New Year, we can expect traffic to be at a low volume. However, the trends show that traffic will start increasing around noon at both sides of the border, probably due to Malaysians visiting Singapore or PRs returning home early.

Last day of the Chinese New Year Holiday – 30 January 2017 (Monday)

On the last day of the holiday, it is expected that many will be returning to Singapore in preparation for work the next day. It appears that the 2^nd  Link will be more affected as most of the people travelling back from the North of Malaysia will choose this route. In this case, it’s best to take the Causeway!

One day after the Chinese New Year Holiday – 31 January 2017 (Tuesday)

Given that it’s a work day, most people would already have arrived home the day before (30 January 2017). However, it’s not uncommon for some to take a day off or two. As such, do note that there may be more traffic heading into Singapore after lunch hour, especially on the 2^nd Link.

We hope that these forecasts do come in handy. Share this information with your friends and loved ones so they can enter JB or Singapore quickly and with ease.

Everyone gets frustrated in a jam, but don’t forget that safety is paramount. Drive safely!

Information credit and for real-time traffic forecasts at the Causeway and 2^nd Link: causewayjam.wordpress.com

Header image credits: HD Wallpaper

Also, read Savvy Local’s Guide: Fill Your Calendar To 15 Jan With These Must-Not-Miss Events!

7 Nearby Travel Destinations To Consider For Your 2017 Long Weekends!

Wanderlusters rejoice! This 2017 brings about a fantastic slew of seven long weekends, signalling you to dig out that travel bucket list and finally tick off some places.

If you are stumped for ideas on where to head to, here are some travel destinations you should totally consider. Whether you fancy a romantic getaway or an adventurous trekking expedition, we have complied a list of seven nearby travel destinations you can consider heading to for your 2017 long weekends!

1. Hua Hin, Thailand

Forget the shopping paradise of Bangkok. Thailand’s seaside beach town, Hua Hin, boasts a delightful mix of cosmopolitan meets seaside ambience. Located a short 3.5 hours bus ride away from Bangkok, Hua Hin is a cheaper and more convenient location than heading to the other resort islands!

2. Boracay, Philippines

Located right in the heart of Philippines, Boracay is no doubt the ideal weekend island getaway for sun-lovers and young couples. Its pristine white beaches and clear turquoise-blue waters are postcard perfect and will certainly make you want to lounge in the sun all day.

[caption id="attachment_20737" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Credit: www.lonelyplanet.com[/caption]

Besides suntanning, Boracay also offers various exciting water sports that are bound to keep you occupied the whole time! Indulge in exhilarating activities such as diving, snorkeling, paragliding, windsurfing and many more in the day.

At night, choose from a huge variety of restaurants and bars dotting the beach that serve up delectable multi-cuisines and cold drinks.

While the trek up both Mount Merbabu and Mount Merapi is relatively challenging, the views are absolutely breathtaking. Likewise, both treks can easily be completed within a day, though we highly suggest an overnight climb as climbing in the day would prove to be extremely hot.

Yogyakarta is also known for its rich culture and traditional arts. Of course, no trip is complete without paying a visit to the world-famous Borobudur Temple!

Ideal weekend getaway for: beginner and intermediate climbers

4. Sapa, Vietnam

Set in the mountainous region of Northern Vietnam, Sapa is increasingly becoming a hotpot for photography-enthusiasts. Host to several hill tribes, expansive rice terraces and lush vegetation, Sapa is a no doubt a picturesque town.

Take a stroll by along the seafront at Gurney Drive to walk off those full stomachs. Alternatively, explore the artsy-fartsy side of Penang by finding the numerous hidden street art located within the UNESCO Heritage site of Georgetown.

Ideal weekend getaway for: foodies and friends of foodies

6. Melbourne, Australia

Heading to Melbourne over the long weekend might seem a little far-fetched but it certainly is possible with the numerous flight deals! If cafe-hopping and getting high on caffeine sounds like your idea of a perfect long weekend getaway, then Melbourne is the place for you!

Host to an overabundance of cafes, you will easily be able to pop into any one along the streets and grab one of Melbourne’s signature cuppas. In addition, Melbourne also boasts a wide selection of shopping options, from local designers to international brands.

You absolutely cannot miss trying their local army stews, bibimbap and korean pancakes. Likewise, a food trip to Seoul will not be complete without indulging in delectable and savoury meats at a Korean barbecue restaurant! Additionally, if you have the time, you might even be able to catch a concert featuring some of Korea’s famous music artists or bands.

With the onslaught of shopping and departmental malls, coupled with plenty of night markets, restaurants and cafes, Seoul is undeniably a heaven for foodies and avid shoppers alike!

Ideal weekend getaway for: major Korean pop fans, foodies and those seeking some retail therapy

Escape the hustle and bustle of the Singapore city life by heading to these destinations over the long weekends! Whether you are looking for a mad weekend getaway or a quick digital detox, these travel destinations will certainly fit the bill.

It is never too early to start making those travel plans for the upcoming long weekends in 2017! Furthermore, with the brand new year already starting, we highly suggest that you start scouring for exclusive travel deals now. As the saying goes: if not now, then when?

(Header image credit: pexels.com)

Also, read 7 Incredible Places In SEA To Discover With Friends!

Timbre Goes Out Of SG! You Can Soak In The Chill Vibes & Good Music At KL Now!

Imagine our excitement when we found out that there’s a Timbre KL! This is their first expansion out of Singapore.

We all love Image source: Image source: Timbre[/caption]

Earlier this year, timbré opened its doors at our neighbouring city.  Image source: Travelogme[/caption]

The Timbre KL menu does not deviate much from its lion city counterpart. Think thin-crust pizzas, Spanish tapas, a wide range of pasta dishes and good beer!

The restaurant bar also retained its signature wood-accented interior that evokes homey and cosy vibes.

Timbre KL – Malaysia Originals & Rozella

[caption id="attachment_12185" align="aligncenter" width="685"] Image source: Timbre[/caption]

This swanky restaurant bar is currently hosting “Malaysia Originals”, a music series that champions indie Malaysian acts. 

[caption id="attachment_12183" align="aligncenter" width="685"] Image source: Timbre KL[/caption]

Borneo songstress Rozella will be gracing the Timbré KL stage on Aug 24. A lyrical genius, Rozella’s music tells stories that are close to her heart.

Her heartfelt ballads have made it to both the Malaysian English Top 10 Charts and the Borneo English Top 10 Charts. This is an act you won’t want to miss!

Check out her hit song “Dark Side” to get a feel of her captivating music.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcA8gYK8xWI[/embed]

Apart from her singing career, Rozella is also the founder of social photography project “True Complexion”. It is a movement that celebrates diversity and raises awareness about medical conditions.

[caption id="attachment_12184" align="aligncenter" width="685"] Image source: Timbre[/caption]

If you haven’t got any plans lined up this weekend, head over to timbre KL @ The Row to catch Rozella in action over good food and beer!

This is one more chill out spot you can add to KL’s ever-growing list of music venues.

Timbre KL @ The Row
Address: 60, 62 &, 64, Jalan Doraisamy, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Rozella’s Performance Details
Date: 24 August, 2016
Admission: Free (with purchase of a drink)
Event page: Discover KL. Also, follow them on Facebook to see what’s buzzing at our neighbour’s place.

(Header photo credit:The Ultimate KL Guide Part 1 – How To Get There & Where To Stay

Top 5 Food To Eat When In JB

Thinking about what to eat in JB? Here’s a list of the top 5 food you should try out on your next trip to JB.

1. Mee Rebus

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_vy4SLEE92/[/embed]
Having a hard time finding a delicious plate of Mee Rebus in Singapore? Fret not! As most of the Mee Rebus served in JB are of pretty decent standard. Served in a spicy yet sweet gravy, who can resists the temptation of Mee Rebus on your next venture to JB. Highly recommended on the list is Mee Rebus Haji Wahid at Angsana Plaza with its thick and tasty gravy which had long been a favorite among locals.

2. Bak Kut Teh

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/ywx7FdN3M3/[/embed]
A dish originally from Klang in Selangor, Malaysia. Bak Kut Teh now has its presence all over Malaysia. A lot of people in JB would claim that they know where is the best Bak Kut Teh around JB, however, the best way would be to try it yourself.

3. Kuey Teow Kia

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/6G3ziqFFHB/[/embed]
There is no lack of Kuey Teow Kia in JB. There is actually quite a few well known Kuey Teow Kia spot near the JB immigration checkpoint. Now you have one more reason to cross the causeway, other than getting your petrol pumped (sarcasm intended).

Also read: TheLorry Looks To Drive Into Southeast Asian Markets With US$1.5M In Their Truck

4. Dim Sum

Let’s be honest, going for a Dim Sum yumcha is just too expensive in Singapore. With the exchange rate at one dollar to three ringgit, there’s now more reason you can drag your friend along to JB for that Dim Sum yumcha you’ve been talking about.

5. Seafood Dinner

Last but not least on our top 5 is of course a seafood dinner in JB. With seafood fresh from the sea at an affordable price, it is no surprise that Singaporeans often flock to JB for seafood during the weekend. A few places on recommendation are restaurants around Gelang Patah, Taman Laguna or Kukup.

Quickly get your dollar changed and head out to JB and taste it yourself.

Cover photo by IRDA

Images: Instagram

Also read: S’pore’s Minister Chan Chun Sing’s First Blog Post – “No One Owes Us A Living.”