The most complete GUIDE to the INSIDE
The Insider’s Club Hot Spot of the Month
July 2016
Singapore, China + Things to Know About Where to Go
Featured Experience
The Fullerton Family Package
Exclusive Virtuoso
World Travel Experiences Tech News
App Edition
Choose Your News Explore: Singapore, China 4-7 What To Do While You Are There 8-13 Where To Stay 14-17 Featured Experience: The Fullerton Family Package 18-19 Exclusive Virtuoso World Travel Experiences 20-31 Tech News: Travel Technology 32-33
A WORD FROM YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR
Dear Fellow Travelers & Adventurers, In this month’s newsletter we are featuring Singapore as well as our monthly tech news, travel tips, things and places to see in our hot spot, and exclusive travel deals from around the world. As always we welcome any suggestions you may have for this newsletter. Please let us know if there is a specific location, hotel, restaurant, excursion, etc. you would like us to feature. Thank you for your business and the opportunity to collaborate on your travel dreams. I look forward to arranging your next great adventure.
-Lena
Explore: Singapore
A Taste Of Singapore By Michael Shapiro “We Asians tend to see food as one of the ways to show our hospitality,” says Leslie Tay, a Singapore-based physician, food blogger, and author of Only the Best!, a popular guide to Singapore’s street food. “That’s why one of the common greetings here is ‘Jia pa buay?’ (Hokkien for ‘Have you eaten yet?’).” Carlene Yap, a presenter at the city’s recent World Street Food Congress, an annual event featuring dozens of vendors from throughout Asia, goes a step further: “Food in Singapore is a shared language, the universal language of love.” Though Singapore is small (only 277 square miles, about half the area of Los Angeles), the island city-state off the Malay Peninsula’s southern tip has an insatiable appetite for cross-cultural cuisine. Dining here is part national sport, part religion – regardless of creed, class, or ethnicity, it’s what everyone talks about. Singapore’s blend of ethnic and culinary heritage is largely Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian, but new culinary influences keep arriving, making the destination a must-visit for epicures. While there’s certainly a lifetime’s bucket list of dishes and drinks to try, from down-toearth street food to high tea at the regal Raffles Hotel, it’s the spontaneous discoveries that make eating here most enjoyable, such as visiting a hawker court in Changi, a village near the airport, and tasting satay that turns out to be the best you’ve ever had. To make the most of your time in Singapore – and learn its shared language – be sure to sample the following staples.
Signature Street Food The best place to try local specialties is at one of Singapore’s thriving hawker centers. In typical fashion, the city banned food vendors from selling on sidewalks years ago and instead invited them to move into food courts, where cleanliness is closely monitored. Wander from one stall to the next, paying about $5 a plate for distinctive dishes such as popiah (a crepe spring roll with hard-boiled egg, tamarind, shrimp, carrots, and lettuce) or Singapore’s famed Hainanese chicken rice. Pull up a Formica chair and join locals cooling off with a refreshing sugarcane juice, then try a Fuzhou oyster cake or rojak (Malay for “mixture”): a fruit, bread, and cucumber salad that tastes better than it sounds. Singapore is so safe, say some residents, that you can hold your table by leaving your wallet or phone on it, but that’s likely legend, not sage advice. A top pick is the centrally located Maxwell Food Centre in the heart of Chinatown (1 Kadayanallur Street), with more than 100 stalls. Another is the open-air Tiong Bahru Food Centre (83 Seng Poh Road), located in one of Singapore’s first planned housing developments. Tall Tipples Viewed from above, Singapore looks like a fantasy. The Singapore River is brightened with orange and purple lights shining from bridges and boats, and the Singapore Flyer, a giant Ferris wheel, rotates slowly through the night. Take in the skyline from a rooftop bar such as 1-Altitude (1 Raffles Place), where Singapore’s young and hip congregate some 60 stories above street level; the views make the $20 cocktails worth the price. For a more intimate perspective, visit the bar atop the historic Fullerton Hotel Singapore, which was built in 1928 as the national post office. Called the Lighthouse (1 Fullerton Square), the alfresco bar/restaurant serves Italian cuisine and occupies the location where, in the 1700s, a beacon guided mariners into the city’s port. For a midday pick-me-up, sip an iced tea floated with whole lychee fruits.
Traditional Treats To get a sense of Singapore’s colonial era, visit the iconic Raffles Hotel. The vintage ceiling fans and live harp music in its Tiffin Room evoke the nineteenth-century ease of the privileged classes. The hotel was built as a ten-room bungalow in 1877; today modern air conditioning keeps the high-ceilinged room cool. During afternoon high tea, tiered trays with treats such as tuna and smoked salmon sandwiches (crusts removed, of course), mango mousse, and bite-size pistachio tarts complement a buffet with savories, including chicken and seafood dumplings. Later, stroll over to Raffles’ Long Bar for a Singapore Sling, the city’s renowned drink. Created in 1915, this gin-based cocktail is made with fresh pineapple and lime juices, grenadine, and a splash of Bénédictine. Its creator, bartender Ngiam Tong Boon, gave the Sling a rosy orange hue so it would appeal to ladies, yet the drink isn’t overly sweet. It’s the ideal cooler on a sweltering Singapore afternoon, along with a snack of peanuts from the bar’s burlap sacks – hew to tradition and toss the shells on the floor. The Toast of Singapore To eat breakfast like a local, visit a café or hawker center that serves kaya toast. Kaya (which means “rich” in Malay) is a coconut-custard jam that’s spread on toast; kaya toast is then typically served with a soft-boiled egg. Wash it down with coffee sweetened with condensed milk at Tong Ah Eating House where they roast their coffee beans in butter and sugar.
Singapore
What to do while your there
Gardens by the Bay This otherworldly botanic garden of soaring “supertrees” (metal structures covered by live vines), an indoor waterfall, and six-story domes filled with plants from around the world shows Singapore in its best light. Dine atop the tallest of the structures at SuperTree by IndoChine, an elegant Asian fusion restaurant.
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Bumboat Tour: Singapore’s answer to the city bus tour is a brisk bumboat ride on the Singapore River, departing from bustling Clarke Quay. In a low-slung boat with a roof for sun protection, see the city’s most graceful bridges and sights such as the Merlion, a half-mermaid, half-lion fountain.
Universal Studios Singapore Go beyond the screen and ride the movies at Universal Studios Singapore. Only here can you experience cutting-edge rides, shows and attractions based on your favorite blockbuster films and television series.
Singapore Zoo with Optional Breakfast with Orangutans The Singapore Zoo is the only place in the world where you can have breakfast with orangutans! Ride a tram through the zoo on a morning tour with an expert guide who points out some of the 3,600 animals that inhabit the wildlife park. If you choose the optional jungle breakfast, enjoy a delicious international buffet in the company of a charismatic family of orangutans. Don’t miss the opportunity to photograph and interact with the apes as they swing and climb in their adjacent habitat.
Singapore’s Chinatown Trishaw Night Tour Explore Singapore’s Chinatown district from every perspective on this enjoyable 4-hour evening trishaw, riverboat and walking tour. Witness the nighttime street theater of this captivating district, learn about its history, visit a traditional Chinese medicine hall and shop for bargains in the exuberant Night Market. Enjoy a delicious Chinese dinner and then take an unforgettable trishaw ride, trundling along the stallpacked lanes as your cyclist driver pushes the pedals!
Singapore Flyer Singapore Flyer is Asia’s Largest Giant Observation Wheel. Standing at a stunning 165m from the ground, the Flyer offers you breathtaking, panoramic views of the Marina Bay and beyond.
Singapore
Where you should stay
The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore With its visionary glass facade illuminated by the sun, The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore sparkles amidst the Marina Bay waterfront. You will enter the hotel, which is built entirely over water, from the historic 1933 Clifford Pier; inside, you’re sure to be overcome by the spellbinding interiors of design wunderkind Andre Fu. Comfortably chic accommodations fuse natural hues, rosewood latticed screens and leather and chrome to full effect. Head to the rooftop for a dip in the swimming pool or a tête-à-tête at the Lantern bar. Dining includes La Brasserie, the heritage luxe The Clifford Pier restaurant and The Landing Point for Afternoon Tea. ASK ME ABOUT MY EXCLUSIVE VIRTUOSO AMENITIES
Mandarin Oriental, Singapore You’ll find the ultimate in tranquillity at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental engulfs you in harmonious well-being as you embark upon a personalized sensory journey. For an exclusive enclave in the heart of the city, the stylish swimming pool offers a resort-like environment perched over Marina Bay. When you return to your guestroom, the floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to soak in the views across the city or lively bay and not hear a sound. Gastronomic choices range from Italian at Dolce Vita to Cantonese at Cherry Garden to international at MELT-The World CafÊ.
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is a seven-acre garden oasis strategically located in the heart of Marina Bay, Singapore’s new downtown core. The hotel’s landmark waterfront site is within walking distance of the Singapore Flyer, ArtScience Museum and Esplanade Theatres on the Bay. Renowned for iconic views from its spacious guestrooms and suites, this 608-room luxury hotel features an exclusive Club Lounge on level 32, and continues to be distinguished by award-winning hospitality synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton brand.
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore is steps away from the shopping, entertainment and business belt of Orchard Road and Botanic Gardens, and a 15-minute ride from the Central Business District and Marina Bay area. Each of the hotel’s 255 refurbished guestrooms, including 40 suites, is designed for maximum comfort, style and efficiency. Enjoy world-class cuisine at One-Ninety Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood or Jiang-Nan Chun, and handcrafted cocktails at One-Ninety Bar and Terraza by Javier de las Muelas. The hotel also offers an award-winning SPA, four tennis courts (including two indoor air-conditioned courts), a 24-hour gym and two outdoor pools.
Featured Experience: The Fullerton Family Package
The Fullerton Family Package Available through Dec. 30, 2016 Strategically located at the prime Marina Bay waterfront, embark on a memorable stay with your family at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore and explore the latest attractions the Lion City has to offer. During your stay, bond over our daily buffet breakfast and let us entertain your children with exclusive amenities - including a kids’ concierge and an ice cream pass - and take home our adorable Fullerton Bear to commemorate your family adventures. Package includes: • Daily American buffet breakfast for two adults and two children* at Town Restaurant • Singapore Standard Jubilee Pass for two adults and two children* • 30% off BAR rates for second room booked for children up to 18 years of age, including complimentary breakfast for up to 2 guests. Guest have to book directly with the hotel via telephone or email for this second room reservation. • Babysitting services available upon request Exclusive kid’s amenities include: • Kids’ Concierge to assist you in planning the perfect family vacation • Welcome kit containing a Fullerton coloring book and crayons • An ice cream pass for one scoop of ice cream daily at Town Restaurant • One cuddly Fullerton Bear per room • One copy of The Little Singapore Book • Special turndown of personalized cookies and milk • Amenities set including baby wipes, powder, lotion and shampoo • Child-size bathrobes and slippers available upon request
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World Travel Experiences
Eau Palm Beach Resort And Spa Manalapan, FL United States
Valid for travel now through November 20th, 2016
Experience Includes: Stay 2 nights and receive the 3rd night complimentary Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability Eau Signature Mediterranean Breakfast Buffet daily in Temple Orange for up to two registered guests $100 USD Eau Spa and Resort credit Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
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World Travel Experiences
Las Alamandas Resort Costalegre, Mexico
Valid for travel now through December 18th 2016
Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability Continental breakfast daily, for up to two in room guests $100 USD Equivalent Resort or Hotel credit Welcome Margaritas upon arrival Welcome bottle of wine Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
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World Travel Experiences
Half Moon, Jamaica Montego Bay, Jamaica
Valid for travel now through October 31st 2016
Experience Includes: Receive up to 40% off our Rack Rates for all room, suite and villa categories Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability (applicable on rooms and suites only) Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests $100 USD equivalent Spa Services credit, to be utilized during stay Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
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World Travel Experiences
Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach Miami Beach, FL
Valid for travel now through September 30th, 2016
Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Daily buffet breakfast for two by Il Mulino New York served in AQ $100 ESPA Spa Credit (only applicable for body or facial treatments) Early check-in subject to availability Late check-out subject to availability A welcome fruit amenity One category upgrade upon arrival subject to availability Complimentary Internet access
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Alila Villas Uluwatu Bali, Indonesia
Valid for travel now through October 31st 2016
Experience Includes: Pay for six nights, stay for nine! Daily continental breakfast for two $100 food and beverage credit per stay Early check-in and late checkout, if available
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Belmond La Samanna Baie Longue, Saint Martin
Valid for travel now through December 22nd, 2016
Experience Includes: Stay 3 nights and receive the 4th night complimentary Automatic upgrade on arriva Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests A complimentary lunch for up to two people once during stay, excluding alcohol, taxes and gratuities Fruit basket in the room Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Tech News: App Edition
Citymapper Comprehensive, easy to use and also playful, Citymapper offers more detailed journey planner information than Google, including real-time departures and disruption alerts, as well as Uber integration and cycle routes. It is available in around 30 cities worldwide, with all the obvious city-break destinations covered.
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Duolingo Over 70 million people have registered with Duolingo, a free and incredibly well-designed language learning app. Though not a replacement for proper language tuition, the app is a fun way to get the basics, or to keep yourself fresh on grammar and vocabulary, before a trip abroad. Just like a computer game, the app guides you through levels that you need to complete before advancing, and you gain experience points along the way.
XE Currency XE is the go-to site for currency conversions on the web, so it’s no surprise that its app is so popular: with over 20 million downloads since launch. It’s able to convert every world currency and also functions offline by saving the last updated rates, which is great if you’re in a place with limited connectivity or trying to save on data.
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