Travel Journal March 2016

DIGITAL EDITION

Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

A Publication of

Picturesque routes of New Zealand pg 26 For the latest travel news and tips, visit www.traveljournal.sg

Uncovering the Best of Okinawa pg 26

THE TIMELESS CITY OF PRAGUE

Exploring the many facets of India pg 26

pg 26

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2 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

THE JOURNEY CONTINUES Traverse lands far and wide with us

WORLDWIDE MEDIA Publisher General Manager Associate Editor Writers

Designer

Cecilia Woo Lilian Quek Cherlyn Ang Angeliat TK Sarah Sathyamoorthi Jacklyn Wu Nina Gee John Pyae Phyo Oo

SALES & MARKETING Marketing Executive

Lim Hui Ling ling@wwm.sg Melisah Roslan melisah@wwm.sg

FOR ENQUIRIES General Editorial

enquiries@wwm.sg editorial@wwm.sg

WWM PTE LTD People’s Park Centre 101 Upper Cross Street #04-37 Singapore 058357 Tel: 65 6533 0400 The information contained herein is accurate at time of printing. Changes may have occurred since this travel tabloid went to print. WWM PTE LTD will not be held liable for any damages, loss, injury or inconvenience arising in connection with the contents of this travel tabloid.

We’re finally back after a two month hiatus, and we can’t wait to explore the world with you once again. Before we begin, we would like to thank our readers for their support since the commencement of our publication. And to those who are just picking up our papers, we hope our articles not only keep you well-informed, but also keep your passion for travel alive.

If you are willing to discover a new corner of this wonderful planet, then you are in for a treat. Travel Revolution, the biggest travel fair that unites top brands in the industry, is back for its second year, and its anticipated return is expected to draw more than the previous crowd of 70,000.

Catch this not-to-be-missed event and grab exclusive deals that are only available for the duration of the fair. As an attendee of last year’s event, I was elated to leave the fair with attractive and affordable packages. My trip to Italy was nothing short of exhilarating, the wellplanned itinerary covered most of Italy’s highlights, and sights. The pacing between stopovers were relatively relaxed, and gave me and my family time to bask in the atmosphere of the country.

Seize this chance to snag a great getaway at the Travel Revolution Fair, from the 26th to 28th of February. Flash your credit cards to get promotions and freebies.

Travel Journal proudly presents five workshops that describe popular tourist destinations in detail. Refer to pages 30-31 for more information on the workshops, and RSVP immediately to reserve a space, as there are a limited number of seats available.

We hope to see you at Travel Revolution 2016!

WWM PTE LTD will not accept responsibility for unsolicited contributions.

Printer: Times Printers (S) Private Limited (L007/08/2015) MCI(P)063/09/2015 ISSN 2424-8126

Cecilia Woo Publisher

DISTRIBUTION POINTS Printed copies are distributed at selected MRT stations, central business districts and satellite towns in Singapore: Amoy Street Ang Mo Kio Chinatown Point Choa Chu Kang City Hall Jurong People’s Park Centre People’s Park Complex Punggol Raffles Place Tampines Tanjong Pagar Toa Payoh Woodlands

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3 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

4 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

CALENDAR March

4 6 th to

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Singapore International Jazz Festival SINGAPORE

Now into its third year, the Singapore International Jazz Festival (Sing Jazz) is set to captivate the audience once again with smooth beats and sultry tunes under the dazzling Marina Bay skyline. Serenading your senses for three nights are jazz and hip-hop trio BADBADNOTGOOD; DJ and music producer Taylor McFerrin; acid-jazz band Incognito; and internationally renowned Italian jazz soloist Enrico Rava. Capping off the stellar line-up are local acts by singer-songwriter Charlie Lim, jazz pioneer Jeremy Monteiro and Singapore-based music collective Darker Than Wax. Advance tickets and multi-day passes are available on the Sing Jazz website.

http://sing-jazz.com/2016/

23 24 th to

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Holi (Festival of Colours) INDIA

The annual Holi festival in India commemorates the triumph of good versus evil, as unwavering devotion to the Hindu god Lord Vishnu brought about the defeat of the demoness Holika. Celebrations usually take place on the day after the last full moon of the lunar month, but the traditional rituals are carried out on the eve of Holi, where people walk around a large bonfire three times, breaking out in song and dance to mark the occasion. The morning of Holi commences with a rainbow of colour, as celebrants throw or smear vibrantly-coloured powder and water at each other to welcome the season of spring. Holi festivities take place more commonly in the northern part of India, with Goa and the cities of Mathura and Mumbai having some of the biggest and wildest Holi celebrations.

http://incredibleindia.org/

1 14 st to

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Omizutori (Water-Drawing Festival) JAPAN

A long-standing traditional event for more than 1,000 years, this annual Buddhist festival in Nara, Japan welcomes the season of spring with a series of repentance rituals and ceremonies at the Todaiji Temple. One of the most popular and spectacular ceremonies during this two-week festival is the Otaimatsu, where large pine torches are lit after sunset and held over the crowd at Nigatsudo Hall. Try not to shy away from these sparks; as it is believed that getting showered with these embers will protect you from evil. The highlight of the Omizutori, the actual water-drawing event, is performed on the early morning of March 13, where priests head to the well located at the base of the temple building to draw water, which is said to have restorative abilities. http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/

24 26 st to

th

Art Basel in Hong Kong HONG KONG

The 2016 edition of Art Basel in Hong Kong returns for its fourth installation at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, featuring 239 leading galleries from 35 countries and territories. The international premier art showcase will put forward an exclusive selection of modern and contemporary works from the Asia and AsiaPacific regions, displayed across six thematic exhibitions that are both inspirational yet thought-provoking. This year’s edition will see 28 new galleries from Singapore, Japan, Paris, New York and many more, including the first African gallery to participate in an Art Basel show. There will also be several talks, panel discussions and presentations by internationally renowned speakers and artists.

https://www.artbasel.com/hong-kong

11 14 th to

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WOMADelaide SINGAPORE

Held in the Botanic Parks in Adelaide, South Australia, this annual world-class outdoor festival brings four days of fun, music and laughter over the March long weekend.

Not only will there be an extraordinary line-up of music and dance acts featuring musicians and performers from around the globe, the festival also plays host to a series of environmental talks and panel events, visual street performances as well as a variety of kids-oriented activities and entertainment. WOMADelaide is also a gastronomic paradise; with more than 100 food stalls serving up a diverse selection of international cuisines and even a popular cooking show and demonstration.

https://www.womadelaide.com.au/

29 3 th to

rd

Bali Spirit Festival INDONESIA

Celebrating its ninth year in Ubud, Bali, BaliSpirit Festival is a novel concept whose popularity has been spreading across the globe in recent years, one that promotes holistic rejuvenation of the mind and body through spiritual healing and self-improvement. Besides offering a wide array of workshops and seminars that caters to different interests and levels of expertise, with yoga and meditation forming the core of the BaliSpirit experience; the festival also hosts a series of night concerts featuring varying genres of music, dance and theatre. Expect everything from music, art and wellness courses to a large-scale daytime community fair as well as a night market, with the proceeds from some events going towards local HIV and AIDS awareness initiatives and environmental conservation efforts.

http://www.balispiritfestival.com/

5 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

Date : 2016 Feb 26-28 Venue : MBS B2 Hall D-F

Time: 11.00am - 9.30pm Booth: C10

6 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

MARKET NEWS

WTS Travel & Tours Bags Four Prestigious Awards

2015 was indeed a fruitful of year of success for WTS Travel as they bagged a grand total of three prestigious awards at the end of the year. The company not only received the Singapore Enterprise 50 (E50) Award, they were also awarded the Singapore Heartland Enterprise Star Award for Best Visual Merchandising and

the Singapore Prestige Brand Award for established brands.

Jointly organised by The Business Times and KMPG, the E50 Award is an esteemed mark of honour and recognition as the cream of the crop of Singapore businesses.

Ranked on a comprehensive set of performance indicators, WTS Travel has

pulled through and emerged among the list of top fifty companies that are recognised for their strong branding and economic success.

WTS Travel also received the Singapore Heartland Enterprise Star Award from the Federation of Merchant’s Association, which seeks to pay tribute to the unassuming heartland enterprises and their contributions to the community.

As a company that constantly reinvents itself, WTS Travel has always placed great emphasis on customer experience, and has even rolled out a new interactive booth where customers can access travel updates and information as well as view the itineraries offered and beautiful images in the photo gallery.

In addition, WTS Travel was once again awarded the Singapore Prestige Brand Award in 2015 as yet another mark of its success over the past few years. By placing their customers as first priority, WTS Travel not only opened most of their branches in heartland areas, they have also arranged for the pick-up points of their coach tours

to be located in more accessible areas, such as various MRT exits rather than making customers travel all the way down to Golden Mile Complex in Beach Road.

Their conscientious consideration for customers has also earned them the Best Foreign Tour Operator Award from the Malaysia Tourism Awards, presented by the Ministry of Tourism And Culture Malaysia.

Satisfy your Wanderlust Travel Revolution Fair 2016

Studio City

Asia’s top entertainment destination Studio City aims to take Macau’s entertainment scene to new heights with its state-of-theart entertainment-driven attractions. The Hollywood Studios-themed resort is designed to provide a fascinating line-up of activities, and performances to keep its guests and visitors fully occupied. Located on Cotai, close to the Lotus Bridge immigration point connecting Hengqin Island and the future station-point for the Macau Light Rapid Transit, Studio City delivers more world-class amenities than any other integrated resort in the market.

Studio City’s stunning Art Deco facade includes the “Golden Reel”, the world’s highest figure-eight Ferris wheel which straddles the resort’s two-tower hotel at a height of 130 meters. The integrated resort will also provide the ultimate hotel, retail, dining and lifestyle experience. To host a myriad of extravagant performances, the “Studio City Event Center”, a 5,000-seat multi-purpose entertainment center is designed to host live concerts, theatrical and sporting events; and “Studio 8”-a 300-seat live-audience TV broadcast studio for reality and game-show productions distributed in the Asia. In addition, the resort boasts a magic theater “The House of Magic”, a Warner Bros. Batman-themed 4D flight simulation “Batman Dark Flight”, a 4,000-square-meter family entertainment center “Warner Bros. Fun Zone” for kids filled with Warner Bros.’ and DC Comics’ franchise characters and play-rides, together with “Pacha Macau” which will bring Ibiza-style nightlife to Macau.

Studio City was established to provide an exceptional time for anyone visiting the vibrant city of Macau, making it the leading tourist destination for tourists around the world.

For more information, visit www.studiocity-macau.com

Mark your calendars and plan your budget, as the Travel Revolution Fair graces us with its presence for the second year round. Occupying the second basement of the lavish and world-renowned Marina Bay Sands, the fair will host a myriad of established agencies, including Dynasty Travel, Chan Brothers and SA Tours, and other participating travel organisations from the industry. From the 26th to the 28th of February, attendees swept away by wanderlust will have a chance to walk home with the best travel deals. Don’t forget to bring your credit cards as well, as major participating banks will be offering promotional discounts for travel packages. The fair will target travellers planning to travel from April onwards, packages and itineraries are crafted for both groups and individual travellers. Have a particular destination you would like to visit? Tourism boards representing prominent travel destinations, such as, Korea Tourism Organisation, Tourism Australia and Tourism Thailand will be featuring the latest available attractions and incentives for travellers. Admission to the event will be free, and interested parties are encouraged to register early to find out more about popular travel promotions and deals.

For more information, visit www.TravelRevolution.sg

7 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

8 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

MARKET NEWS

EU Holidays Recognised As One of Singapore’s Top Trusted Brands EU Holidays Pte Ltd has recently received the prestigious Singapore Trusted Quality Brand 2015 award from the Singapore Enrich Group. This award recognises local small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as entrepreneurs for their excellent performance and success in developing a strong and trusted brand throughout the year.

Taking an innovative and creative approach to meeting travellers’ needs, EU Holidays was the first to introduce exclusive tours to the Arctic Circle in Norway, Finland and Iceland, creating a now-popular trend among local travellers. As the sole distributing partner for the Mount Bussalp group sledging activity (Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia), the company was able to present its customers with a unique sledging experience in the Swiss Alps. With these new destinations and exclusive

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Leading bus services like Transtar, Konsortium, Lapan Lapan, WTS, Star express, Starmart ,Nice, Quistna etc. are available on the portal. Payment for tickets can be done in either Singapore dollars or Malaysian ringgit. Tickets can be booked over the web, or via the app. The platform supports international payment systems, multiple currency systems and different time zones.

Recently redBus launched their “Tap Tap Tap” campaign in Singapore, allowing its customers to conveniently make bookings in just three easy steps. It provides a delightful booking experience and a strong customer support. Covering more than 67,000 bus routes, redBus has sold over 50 million tickets globally. The company is actively pursuing opportunities to expand in the market and is poised to become a market leader in the near future.

About redBus:

redBus is part of ibibo Travel group and is India’s Number One online bus ticketing platform both on mobile as well as desktop. The business owns three products - redBus™, BOGDS™, and Seat Seller™ . While redBus™ focuses on the sale and distribution of online bus tickets, BOGDS™ is a cloud solution built for bus operators used by thousands of bus operators in India. Seat Seller™ is the Global Distribution System (GDS) used to distribute seats to passengers. redBus been has been awarded the ‘mBillionth South Asia’ award and the ‘Global Mobile Innovation in Travel Award’ by Eye for travel in March, 2014. It also won the Business Standard Annual Award for ‘The Most Innovative Company of 2013’ earlier this year. redBus has been rated as one of the most trusted brands in the online travel category, and is the 13th most trusted internet brand in the overall rankings based on the recent ‘The Brand Trust Report, India Study 2015’.

For more information, visit www.redbus.sg

inclusions, EU Holidays is able to provide extraordinary journeys for their customers, thus earning their trust and support.

Furthermore, EU Holidays is recognised for providing quality with value by bringing superior travel experiences at reasonable prices to their customers, living up to its reputation as the renowned travel specialist for Europe and USA destinations. At EU Holidays, their team of experienced tour managers undergo extensive training courses to ensure a smooth-sailing vacation for each and every customer, maintaining a personal touch by taking care of all their needs and offering solutions to any hiccups along the trip.

With this award, EU Holidays is encouraged to further develop consumers’ trust with exceptional customer service and novel travel itineraries that offer “something special and different” with travellers in mind.

For more information, visit www.euholidays.com.sg

Singapore Airlines Increases Flight Frequencies for 2016 Starting from March 27, Singapore Airlines (SIA) will increase its flights to Bangkok, adding a sixth flight to its current five daily flights. The additional flight was introduced to meet a rise in demand for travel to and from Bangkok among business and leisure travellers, and will add close to 2,000 seats a week to the route.

The additional flight, SQ982, will leave Singapore at 5.35pm and arrive in the Thai capital at 7pm. The return flight SQ983 will leave Bangkok at 8.05pm and arrive in Singapore at 11.30pm (timings listed are local).

From March 27 to Oct 29, SIA will also increase flight frequency to Colombo, Sri Lanka from seven to 10 each week. Milan flight services will also rise from five to six per week, with two flights that will carry on to Barcelona, Spain.

To accommodate peak-season travel demand, the airline will also increase weekly flights to Rome from three to five between June 25 and July 30. Flights to Sydney will go up to 35 each week, beginning June 23 till Sept 4. An additional weekly flight will also be added on the route to Ahmedabad, India between April 30 and June 4, and the route to Mumbai from April 21 to June 6.

SIA will start operating three flights per week to Düsseldorf, Germany; the latest addition to the Singapore Airlines network, from July 21.

For more information, visit www.singaporeair.com

Travel Journal Full page ad_pathed.pdf 1 2/12/2016 10:10:02 AM

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9 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

10 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

LAKE MATHESON, WEST COAST

Discover a fantastical land that will stimulate your senses and ignite your imagination

T

he sight of thriving foliage, gentle rolling hills and snowcapped mountains, leaves you in awe as you take a leisurely drive down the scenic roads of New Zealand. The picturesque scenery can be seen for miles, and after each gentle bend in the road your decision to selfdrive around this immense country would feel like the best decision you have made in your entire life. With the help of navigational devices such as, GPS, the prospect of independent travel has not only become more tempting, but has also risen in popularity as self-drive packages and tours are becoming more preferable amongst travellers in the past few years.

Being a self-drive destination, New Zealand has made tremendous efforts to encourage safe driving as well as to raise awareness about driving rules. These efforts are further bolstered by providing

travellers with driving itineraries that cover various sites of New Zealand in days or even close to a month, depending on the duration of their visit. The freedom and flexibility one experiences when embarking on these tours is unparalleled, and it imbues one with confidence to tour a foreign land independently.

The terrain in New Zealand is diverse, ranging from rugged plains to vast flat grasslands, and if you would like to experience the entirety of this magnificent country on a relatively faster pace, do consider renting a car to save time, and to enjoy the surreal surroundings from the comforts of your vehicle.

Depending on what piques your interest, New Zealand offers different perspectives of what the country consists of. Major areas of the country have their own charms and popular attractions that draw people from both near and afar.

LAKE TAUPO, LAKE TAUPO

An Adventure to the North Island

There are various locations in the North Island of New Zealand that have noteworthy highlights, accessible via The Thermal Explorer Highway - an impressive route in and of itself. One such place is Rotorua, a geothermal city known for its geysers and thermal mud pools. Visitors can gaze the Pohutu geyser, in the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, erupting scalding water 30 metres into the air up to 20 times throughout the day. The town is steeped in Maori culture, and holds cultural performances that are as entrancing as the thermal landscape itself.

Continue down the route to Lake Taupo, which houses the famous Huka Falls, as well as the 10-meter high Maori rock craving at Mine Bay. The rock craving has become a prominent cultural site, and can only be reached by boat. In addition, wary travellers can make their way to the Tokaanu Thermal Pools, in Lake Taupo, to rejuvenate themselves after a long journey.

Drivers have a choice between taking The Pacific Coast Highway or the Twin Discovery Tour Route to return back to Auckland. The Pacific Coast will provide spectacular views of the coastlines that stretches as far as the horizon, whereby the Twin Discovery Tour

PHOTOS: ROB SUISTED, DESTINATION LAKE TAUPO, TOURISM NEW ZEALAND, DESTINATION LAKE TAUPO

NAVIGATING THE SCENIC ROADS OF NEW ZEALAND

11 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016 Route will cover the regions’ best spots, such as the Bay of Islands and New Zealand’s Far North amongst other memorable destinations in one drive.

The Stunning Southern Island

Explore the chilly wintry wonderland of New Zealand, as you take the “Treasured Pathway” or Marlborough Nelson Heritage route, and settle your eyes on the snowclad mountains of the South Island that will leave you shuddering in astonishment. Those keen on driving on this route will begin their journey in Picton, if they are coming from the North Islands. The quaint port town provides ferry service between the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Cruise along Queen Charlotte Drive that links the twisty roads of Picton and Havelock. Once reaching Havelock, drivers should set some time aside to make stopovers at spots marked with the sign, “lookout”, and indulge in the captivating sights in the vicinity. This is especially true when looking out from Cullens Point, relish

in the splendour of sparkling turquoise blue seas cradled by golden brown sands.

On the other hand, if you would like to cross the rugged terrains of New Zealand’s South Island, the Southern Scenic Heritage Highway route will plunge you into the world loved and adored by fans of the novel-based fantasy film series, The Lord of the Rings.

Re-live the mythical world of Middle-earth as the snaking mountain valleys and various kinds of flora and fauna that surround you will stimulate your imagination and senses to craft your very own fantasy realm. Not to miss out, the Southern Island is also the home to the increasingly popular Southern Lights.

If you are interested to learn more about travelling in New Zealand, head on down to the upcoming Travel Revolution Fair to gain a deeper understanding of the country and navigational advice for a smooth and fun holiday.

Visit Tourism New Zealand at Travel Revolution 2016: Booth D25 or log on to www.newzealand.com.sg for more information.

MURIWAI BEACH, AUCKLAND

EMERALD LAKES, TONGARIRO ALPINE CROSSING, RUAPEHU

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NEW ZEALAND DRIVING HOLIDAYS Book your seats to a comprehensive destination workshop for your holiday to New Zealand. Dreaming of a road trip to paradise? Create your perfect itinerary from the recommended routes and guides that we will be highlighting, and leave all your worries behind as our expert gives you some driving tips to ensure a perfect trip from start to end. Workshop includes a free travel pack, exclusive tips, tour packages and airline promotions.

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS • Self-drive tours and scenic routes of New Zealand • Christchurch and other South Island regions • Driving Tips by Hertz • Tour Package Promotions • Air New Zealand Services

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12 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

OKINAWA’S TOP SIX

Rediscover the hidden beauty of Okinawa through the eyes of the locals

SHURI-JO CASTLE

Marine Activities & Marine Life Observation

For the thrill seekers, get ready for hours of fun in Okinawa’s emerald green clear waters. It is one of the best places in the world to explore marine sports such as diving, jet-skiing, and even fly-boarding!

If you want to experience Okinawa’s underwater beauty without getting wet, visit the famous Churaumi Aquarium.

For those who want to get a little more up close and personal, take a ride on the glass-bottomed boat or explore the sea through the Busena Marine Observatory Tower.

Makishi Public Market & ‘Minyou’ Folk Song Restaurants

Taste the flavours of Okinawa at the Makishi Public Market – an indoor market selling everything from raw seafood to quirky souvenirs. Take your pick from the freshest catch of the day, and get it prepared in one of the restaurants for 500 yen. At night, head to the local izakaya where you can enjoy performances of sanshin (a three-stringed instrument) and taiko (drums) and traditional folk music. This is a great place to mingle with the locals over some good music and excellent Okinawan cuisine.

Bingata Painting

Okinawa has adopted an experiential method to introduce its culture. At Shuri Ryusen, you can create your very own Bingata souvenir.

Bingata is a dyeing technique unique to Okinawa, which creates intricate patterns and a cacophony of colours on fabrics and clothes. Here you can witness the various stages of Bingata production and get in on the action at the same time.

CHURAUMI AQUARIUM

MAKISHI PUBLIC MARKET

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN OKINAWA

PERFORMANCE AT THE LOCAL IZAKAYA

BINGATA PAINTING

SANSHIN

DIY Theme Parks

To immerse yourself in Okinawa’s past and immerse yourself in the life of a villager, either visit the Murasaki-Mura or Ryukyu Mura. These attractions are built to replicate the village life in Okinawa during the rule of the Ryukyu Kingdom. At both sites, visitors get a chance to try their hands at as many as 65 different crafts inside the small huts.

Shuri-jo Castle

For history buffs, be sure to visit Okinawa’s Shuri castle (Shuri-jo) , which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was restored in 1992 after being destroyed in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Symbolising the splendour of the Ryukyu Kingdom, its Chinese and Japanese influences can be seen in its architecture and design.

Shopping in Okinawa

DIVING IN OKINAWA

No trip to Okinawa is complete without shopping. There is something here for everyone as you venture into the streets of Kokusai or into the local departmental stores including, Ryubo, San-A and Aeon Jusco Haebaru. The latest addition to Okinawa’s shopping scene is the AEON

MALL Okinawa Rycom, which opened its doors in 2015. For bargain-lovers of branded items, Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa is a must-see as you will find great deals at the lowest prices.

Visit Okinawa Tourism at Travel Revolution 2016: Booth B8 or log on to www.beokinawa.com for more information

PHOTOS: OKINAWA PREFECTURAL GOVERNMENT SINGAPORE REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE

D

ubbed as the “Hawaii of Asia”, Okinawa is a prefecture of Japan. However, do not be quick to dismiss it as another replica of its more well-known Western counterpart. Okinawa, with its scenic charms and balmy temperatures, is more than just another tropical beach holiday spot. Here are just some of the things to experience in Japan’s southernmost prefecture.

13 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

Okinawa. Be there in 5hrs Fly Direct to Okinawa in June!

http://beokinawa.jp Facebook: SGOkinawa.go

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BEST OF OKINAWA Get ready to accept Okinawa’s invitation to sunbathe on pristine beaches, dive into clear waters, and explore hidden gems when you attend this travel workshop.

Learn more about the island and get invaluable tips from Okinawa’s travel experts on how to get there, as well as advice on what to see, do, eat, and where to stay. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as participants will get a door gift!

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS • Best Travel Routes to Okinawa • Top Sights and Activities • Free & Independent Travel Recommendations • Guided Tour Packages

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14 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

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6D Naturally Nepal

8D Apple Blossom Tour to Himachal

Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Delhi, Srinagar & Gulmarg

Kathmandu – Pokhara - Nagarkot

Shimla, Kullu-Manali, Dharamsala & Amritsar

Cost: S$ 988/- (Land Only, Economy Hotels)

Cost: S$ 898/- (Land Only)

Cost: S$ 1098/- (Land Only)

Hurry!

S$ 100/-

All costs (except Bhutan) are based on 6 pax to go.

Discount Per Person 201 b

6

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oo

king

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ch,

Single Traveller Cost available with choices of 3 types of Hotels

FARMOSA HOLIDAY 6534 1133

*T&C apply

#B1-19/20 PEOPLE’S PARK CENTRE Mon-Sat 10:30am – 7:30pm, Sun & PH 12pm – 7:30pm

Taxes:

Fr$50 - $520 *T&C Apply

15 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

Bhutan – The Kingdom of Happiness

Leave behind the stresses of life and find out how to get yourself to the happiest country in the world!

PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS • Destination Introduction • Best Ways to Experience Bhutan • Accommodation Recommendations • Essential Travel Tips • Guided Tour Packages

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16 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

TA-01432

6438 5633

Travelstar_Singapore

TravelstarSingapore

www.travelstar.com.sg People’s Park Complex #02-12/28 (S) 059108

Marina Bay Sands B2 Expo Hall D-F

Visit us at

Booth C3

26 - 28 Feb 2016 (Fri- Sun) 11am - 9.30pm

SIM CARD

Spend $500 & Above*

Spend $1000 & Above*

4D3N HONG KONG DISNEYLAND HOLLYWOOD HOTEL STAY

7D/6D GOLD COAST - THEME PARK FAMILY FUN + TANGALOOMA DOLPHIN EXPERIENCES

0

Fireworks @ Disneyland

Buffet Breakfast at Tursiops Restaurant, Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Hand Feeding (subject to weather permitting)

- Stay 2N in Regal Oriental & 1N in Hollywood Hotel or similar - Return Airport Transfers - 1-day Disneyland Tour Child:$ - Return tickets on United Airlines Adult: Fr$598

4D HONG KONG FAMILY PACKAGE + DISNEYLAND TOUR Fireworks @ Disneyland

0

- Stay 3N in Regal Oriental & 1N in Hollywood Hotel or similar - Return Airport Transfers - 1day Disneyland Tour - Return tickets on United Airlines Child:$ Adult: Fr $538

世界自然遺產【天生三橋】 電影《變形金剛4》《滿城盡帶黃金甲》的 外景拍攝地 世界文化遺產【大足石刻（含電瓶車往返）】 【千裏草場仙女山】（含小火車） - 【磁器口古鎮/長壽古鎮/龙兴古镇/ 芙蓉洞】 - 重慶【人民廣場/人民大禮堂/三峽博物館】 【解放碑步行街】-【重慶大劇院】 - 觀看重慶夜景 【巴國城/巴人博物館】 - 乘坐【長江索道】（往返） 觀看重慶城市風光

788

Fr$

6D4N GOLD COAST - WARNER BROTHERS FAMILY FUN

飞牛牧场-体验喂牛乳,挤牛乳,晚上体验农场 活动+DIY 住宿一晚温泉酒店 特别美食：客家料理,牛奶火锅,原住民料理， 海鲜餐，自助火锅吃到饱

Sea World + Movie World with transfers Paradise Country Farm Tour Schedule 1 + BBQ Lunch>Harbour Town Shopping + Return Transfer

-台北一天自由活动 -桃园/宜兰/台中/南投/苗栗/台北 -每天出发 -怀旧主题文化村 -十分老街 -乘船游日月

【草原蒙古包】特色入住体验 【希拉穆仁草原】下馬酒、摔跤賽馬表演、 篝火晚會 【骑马体验】品尝【草原手把肉】 呼和浩特最早建成的黃教寺院【大召寺/公主府】 - 5A級旅遊景區【銀肯響沙灣】体验沙漠活動： 衝浪車、騎駱駝、滑沙 - 國家首批5A級景區【沙湖】 -“神秘的奇跡”“東方金字塔”【西夏王陵】 -【西部影城】《紅高粱》 《大話西遊》《新龍門客棧》 拍攝地

1098

198

-3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer

288

Fr$

178

- 2N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - City Tour

Fr$

4D3N Phuket Sea Sun Sand Resort & Spa Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚普吉岛阳光海滩度假酒店＋机票

Fr$

4D3N Penang Flamingo by the Beach Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚槟城火烈鸟海滩酒店＋机票 - 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - Half Day City Tour

0

278

Fr$

- 4N accommodation at 4.5 star hotel or similar - Return Airport & Land Transfers as per itinerary - Return airfare by QF (Qantas Airways

998

1598

198

FREE 3D Shanghai+Zhujiajiao Water Village Tour 2N stay at Local 5* hotel in Shanghai Overnight at famous Onsen Resort at Beppu Mount Aso, Huis Ten Bosch, Fukuoka Tower, Kumamoto Castle - Return Airfare to Fukuoka by China Eastern - Individual check in luggage 2 pcs (up to 46kg/pax) - Overnight at local 4* hotel throughout the trip

Fr$

Fr$

4D3N Phuket The Ashlee Plaza Patong 4D3N Bali Devata Suites & Residence Hotel & Spa Stay + Return Flights Hotel Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚 普吉岛芭东艾希莉广场酒店＋机票 ４天３晚巴厘岛德瓦塔套房公寓酒店＋机票

208

218

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - Half Day City Tour Fr$

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer

4D3N Bangkok Seasonal Siam Hotel Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚曼谷季节暹罗酒店＋机票

4D3N Langkawi Aseania Resort Stay + Return Flights ４天 ３晚兰卡威阿瑟尼亚度假村＋机票

4D3N Bali Edelweiss Boutique Hotel Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚巴厘岛雪绒花精品酒店＋机票

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - Half Day City Tour

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - City Tour

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - Welcome drinks- Complimentary swimming pool access

248

Fr$

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfe - 24 hours free internet service

Fr$

238

Fr$

Child:$ Adult: Fr$568

7D KYUSHU ROMANCE TOUR WITH RERURN FLIGHTS 7天 九州風情之旅往返机票

- 藏传佛教圣地【吐蕃古寺大昭寺】【塔尔寺】 - 世界海拔最高的古代宫堡式建筑群【布达拉宫】 - 黄教六大寺【扎什伦布寺】 - 西北四大清真寺【东关清真大寺】

- 出发日期： 2016年5月19，5月21， 6月11， 9月10 - 南方航空/西部航空往返机票 - 10天/11天/12天精选与新疆旅游 局合作行程 - 可可托海景区环保车

0

- GV10: Min.10 to go - Mt.Seorak National Park - Winter Sonata filming: Nami Island - Daepohang Seafood Market - Seongsun Sunrise Peak - 3D Trick Eye Museum

世界上最高的淡水湖【羊卓雍湖】 世纪冰川【卡惹拉冰川】 高原铁路【青藏铁路专线列车】 【青海湖、昆仑山、可可西里、戈壁红柳 长江源、唐古拉山、错那湖和羌塘草原】

保證安排三年內新旅遊巴士+移動廁所 特别赠送精美大禮包：品質貼心禮包 美食发现特别安排：新疆风味烤全羊，布尔津 冷水鱼风味，新疆风味大盘鸡，新疆风味 拌面，新疆汤饭风味

4D3N Bangkok P2 Boutique Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚曼谷Ｐ２酒店＋机票

0

You Who Come From The Stars: The Love Lock Wall Everland

7D/10D SCENIC SKYWAY TOUR OF QINHAI-TIBET 7天/10天神秘西藏高原之旅

10D/ 11D/ 12D NORTHERN XIN JIANG 10天／11天／12天 北疆风光 东方瑞士塞外江南

0

Child:$ Adult: Fr$858

6D/8D DELUXE ROMANTIC KOREA 6天/8天浪漫韩国+雪岳山豪华之旅

Child:$ Adult: Fr$698

Child:$ Adult: Fr$1138

Fr$

3D2N Phuket Sunset Beach Resort Stay 3D3D2N Penang Glow/ Sentral Seaview + Return Flights Hotel + Return Flights 3天2晚普吉岛日落海滩度假酒店＋机票 ３天2晚普吉岛槟城辉光/中环海景酒店＋机票 - 2N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer

- Stay 4N in 4.5 star Goldcoast Hotel & 1N in Tangalooma Island Resort or similar - Return Airport & Land Transfers as per itinerary - Sea World + Dream World with transfers/ Paradise Country Farm Tour + Aussie BBQ Lunch > Harbour Town Shopping + transfers - Dream World + transfers incl. 6x8 Koala Photo + SkyPoint (NO transfer ) - Return airfare by QF (Qantas Airways)

8D BEAUTIFUL TAIWAN TOUR 8天 美丽台湾亲子游

10D AMAZING INNER MONGOLIA/ NINGXIA/ GREENLAND/ DESERT 10天 内蒙古草原大漠风情游

4D/6D LAND OF TRANSFORMERS CHONGQING WULONG 4天/6天 重庆武隆天生三桥/仙女山/ 大足石刻豪华团

Spend $1500 & Above*

Fr$

228

Fr$

1798

Fr$

4D3N Krabi La Playa Stay + Return Flights ４天３晚甲米拉帕雅度假村酒店＋机票

258

- 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - City Tour - Return airport transfer Fr$

4D3N Krabi The Small Beach Resort Stay + Return Flights ４天 ３晚甲米小海滩度假村酒店＋机票 - 3N hotel stay with daily breakfast - Return airport transfer - City Tour

258

Fr$ Promotion T&Cs Apply

AN

& HONG NG KO

TAIW

17 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

SIM CARD

6D TAIWAN FAMILY FUN 6天台湾亲子乐 六福村主题游乐园 清境农场: 青青草原 头城农场

438

-逢每周五出发 -台北/台中/南投/清境/台北/宜兰 -内湾老街，九份老街，八里左岸 -大唐温泉物语 Fr$

4D HONG KONG+DISNEYLAND 5D HONG KONG DISNEY+SHENZHEN 5天香港迪士尼+深圳游 4天 香港迪士尼欢乐游 Option to Upgrade: 1N Disneyland Hollywood Hotel Stay - Hong Kong City Tour - Disneyland with Return Transfer - 3 Nights Hotel Stay - 2 Way Airport Transfer

283

Half Day Hong Kong City Tour 1 Day Disneyland Pass + Transfer Shenzhen City Tour Shenzhen Stay in 5 Star Hotel

K

N

6D/8D DELUXE ROMANTIC KOREA 6天/8天浪漫韩国+雪岳山豪华之旅 Everland You Who Come From The Stars: The Love Lock Wall

SIM CARD

清境: 小瑞士花园/青青草原 太鲁阁国家公园 日月潭游湖 阿里山看日出

519

-逢每周二出发 -桃园/花莲/清境/阿里山看日出/ 台中/台北 -逢甲夜市，忠烈祠 Fr$

4D HONG KONG/ MACAU 4天 香港澳门欢乐游 No Weekend & Peak Day Surcharge Half Day Hong Kong City Tour Macau City Tour with Lunch - 3 Nights Hotel Stay - 2 Way Airport Transfer - 2 Way Ferry Ticket

310

Fr$

Fr$

EA & JAPA R O

335

- 4 Nights Hotel Stay - 2 Way Airport Transfer

7D TAIWAN GOLDEN TOUR 7天台湾黃金遊

- GV10: Min.10 to go - Mt.Seorak National Park - Winter Sonata filming: Nami Island - Daepohang Seafood Market - Seongsun Sunrise Peak Fr$ - 3D Trick Eye Museum

268

Fr$

7D/8D BUSAN/ GYEONGJU/ SEOUL/ JEJU ISLAND 7天/8天 浪漫釜山/庆州/首尔/济州岛 Unesco Heritage Site Seongsan Sunrise Peak Unesco Heritage Site Bulguksa Temple

8D BEAUTIFUL TAIWAN TOUR 8天 美丽台湾亲子游 飞牛牧场 一晚温泉酒店 台北一天自由活动 -每天出发 -桃园/宜兰/台中/南投/苗栗/台北 -怀旧主题文化村 -十分老街 Fr$ -乘船游日月潭

648

5D HONG KONG+MACAU+SHENZHEN 5天 香港+澳门+深圳游 Half Day Hong Kong City Tour No Weekend & Peak Day Surcharge Shenzhen City Tour + Splendid China & Cultural Vilage Macau City Tour with Lunch

330

- 4 Nights Hotel Stay - 2 Way Airport Transfer - 2 Way Ferry Ticket

548

Fr$

8D6N SUPER DELUXE DISCOVER BEAUTIFUL KOREA 8天6晚 惊艳韩国豪华之旅

778

- Edelweiss Swiss Village - Cave Cafe - Everland - 3D art Museum - Bibap Show - DIY KIMCHI

Fr$

7D5N KYUSHU ROMANCE TOUR 7D JAPAN CHUBU+TOKYO TOUR 7D/6D HOKKAIDO CLASSIC TOUR 8D/7D HONSHU GOLDEN TOUR 7天/6天 魅力北海道 7天5晚 九州風情之旅 7天5晚 日本中部+东京 8天/7天 日本本洲精选游 Overnight at famous Onsen Resort at Beppu Mount Aso, Huis Ten Bosch, Fukuoka Tower, Kumamoto Castle - Overnight at local 4* hotel category throughout the trip

1488

MALD & IV I L

ES

BA

Fr$

SIM CARD

Overnight at 4* hotel category 2 nights upgraded to Onsen Resort Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Shirakawa Go Village Sanmachi Suji, Shinhotaka Ropeway Matsumoto Castle, Mt Fuji - Fullboard meal

1488

Fr$

4D BALI DOLPHIN TOUR FREE upgrade private tour FREE 1 hour balinese massage FREE 1 Love Bali T shirt - Snorkeling - Fish feeding - Coral - Free mini bar + Ice Cube during tour

208

4* hotel category throughout the trip 2N upgrade to Authentic Japanese Onsen Hot Spring resort Enjoying Seafood Hotpot, Genshis Khan Barbeque, Sapporo Kanihonke, Superior Crab Cuisine

1138

- Visit to Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Lake Toya, Otaru, Jozankei, Fr$ Sapporo, Chitose

4D BALI HOLIDAY TOUR (FULL BOARD) FREE upgrade to private tour FREE additional menu at Jimbaran King prawn + coconut FREE Tatto temporery/ Hair Braid

218

- Free wear Balinese Custom - Free mini bar during tour + ice cube on during tour

Fr$

Fr$

ILAND THA SIM CARD

A

U

CANA D SIM CARD

288

- Services of excellent Chinese & English Speaking Tour Guide - Overnight at international 4* hotel category throughout the trip - Orientation tour of the Big Apple Fr$ “ New York”

STRALIA AU SIM CARD

8D6N BEST OF GOLD COAST & SYDNEY FREE Koala Photo (6x8) Best of TWO - Dream World Admission + Return SIC Transfer >> SkyPoint Admission Movie Word/ Sea World Admission + Return SIC Transfer Blue Mountains & Wildlife Experience incl.

Cruise/ Hunter Valley Wine & Cafe Lunch Morning City Harbour & Bondi Beach Tour

908

- Stay 3N in Islander Resort Goldcoast & 3N in DeVere Hotel Sydney or similar - Daily breakfast - Return Airport & Land Transfers as per Fr$ itinerary

Beach Villa + Full Board Meals 4 Star Resort Full Board 2 Way Speed Boat Transfer Tiger Airways Return Flights - Return flights by Tiger Airways

1628

Fr$

- Stay 4N in Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai day tour - Return airport transfer - All meals & sightseeing as per itinerary

398

Special night tours:"overwhelming" New York city & "magnificent" Niagara Falls Tour around historical Capitol of USA - New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC Visit Country's oldest university - Harvard University

4D3N MEERU ISLAND RESORT & SPA

FREE Hot Good Coffee for adult FREE Strawberry Farm visiting FREE 1 egg for boiling in Hot Spring

Damnernsaduak Floating Market Maeklong Railway Market, Venezia Swiss Sheep Farm, Hua Hin Vine Yard Wat Huay Mongkol (Luangphortuad) Hua Hin Train Station/ Night Market

8D6N HIGH FUN OF USA EAST COAST

1258

- Visit to Mt Fuji 5th station, Lake Kawaguchi, Meiji Shrine, Oshino Hakkai Village, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nara Park Fr$

4D/5D CHIANGMAI & CHIANGRAI DAY TOUR

4D/5D BANGKOK & HUA HIN

- Stay 2N in Hua Hin & 2N in Bangkok - Meet and greet by local representative - Return airport transfer, All meals as per itinerary - Escorted orientation tour by Eng or Chi speaking guide - All entrance fees as per itinerary Fr$

& SA

5* hotel category throughout the trip 2N upgraded to famous Hot Spring Resort Enjoying A5 Kobe beef, Deluxe Kaiseki Cuisine, Shabu Shabu

with taxes & fuel surcharges

Half Day Hong Kong City Tour Zhuhai City Tour + Lunch Macau City Tour + Lunch - 4 Nights Hotel Stay - 2 Way Airport Transfer - 2 Way Ferry Ticket

340

Fr$

6N stay at 5* Hotel Unesco Heritage Site Teddy Bear Museum Running Man shooting place : Rail Bike

- GV10: Min.10 to go - Dynamic Busan - Jagalchi Seafood Market - Gyeongbok Palace

5D HONG KONG+MACAU+ZHUHAI 5天 香港+澳门+珠海游

138

Fr$

7D5N EXPERIENCE MONO SEOUL SUPER DELUXE TOUR 7天5晚 体验首尔之旅 Petite France Cultural Village , Garden of Morning Calm,Nami island Pick strawberry + DIY strawberry Jam Hotspring experience : Ocean 700

928

- DIY BBQ Chicken - Everland - Seaweed Musuem - CaFace theme cafe

Fr$

7D6N OKINAWA+SHANGHAI GOLDEN TOUR 7天6夜 冲绳岛上海精选游 FREE 3D Shanghai + Zhujiajiao Water Village Tour 2N stay at Local 5* hotel in Shanghai Nanjing Road, Shanghai Bund, Era Show - Chura umi aquarium, shuri castle, okinawa world (gyokusendo cave walk) - 4N stay at local 4* hotel - Meals & entrance fee as per Fr$ itinerary

1688

4D3N VELIGANDU ISLAND RESORT & SPA Jacuzzi Beach Villa + Full Board Meals 4 Star Resort Full Board 2 Way Sea Plane Transfer SQ Return Flights - Return flights by Singapore

Airline

2458

Fr$

4D/5D BANGKOK & PATTAYA Floating Market at Chao Praya River The Grand Palace and Wat Arun Temple Phra Phrom/ Sriracha Tiger Zoo Coral Island in Pattaya/ Dream World Nong Nooch Village - Stay 2N in Pattaya & 2N in Bangkok - Return airport transfer - All meals & sightseeing as per itinerary

188

Fr$

10D8N DELIGHT OF USA WEST COAST Explore Romantic Cultural Capital "San Francisco" Visit Grand Canyon West Rim (Skywalk) or South Rim, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Mojave Desert Selection 1 of 6 themepark (San Diego city tour,

Los Angeles city tour, Palm Springs Outlets, Universal Studio, Disney Land, SeaWorld San Diego)

1088

- Services of excellent Chinese & English Speaking Tour Guide - Min 2 persons, daily departure Fr$

8D6N BEST OF SYDNEY & MELBOURNE Blue Mountains & Wildlife Experience incl.

Cruise OR Hunter Valley Wine & Cafe Lunch Morning City Harbour & Bondi Beach Tour incl. Rocks Walking Tour FREE Melbourne City Tour Philip Island Penguin Parade - Penguin Plus Great Ocean Road Adventure OR Sovereign

928

- Stay 3N in DeVere Hotel Syd & 3N in Ibis Styles Kingsgate Mel or similar - Daily breakfast - Return Airport & Land Transfers as per itinerary Fr$

12D9N USA BEST OF CALIFONIA Disneyland/ Sea World San Diego/ Las Vegas/ Grand Canyon Tour South Rim/ Outlet Shopping Universal Studios & Hollywood tour/ Yosemite San Francisco/ San Francisco City Tour/ Napa Valley/ Monterey Bay - Daily departure, min 2 to go - 5N at 4* Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel or similar in Los Angeles - 2N at 4* Excalibur Hotel & Casino or similar in Las Vegas - 2N at 4* Sheraton Pleasanton/ Marriott or similar in San Francisco - 1D Disneyland ticket (one day one park) - 1D Universal Studios ticket & city tour - 1D Sea World San Diego SIC tour - 3D SIC Tour to Las Vegas Grand Canyon - 3D SIC Tour to San Francisco/ Fr$ Yosemite/ Napa Valley

1268

8D6N BEST OF GOLD COAST & MELBOURNE FREE Koala Photo (6x8) Best of TWO - Dream World Admission + Return SIC Transfer >> SkyPoint Admission Movie Word/ Sea World Admission + Return SIC Transfer Philip Island Penguin Parade - Penguin Plus Great Ocean Road Adventure/ Sovereign Hill / Mt. Buller Snow Day

998

- Stay 3N in Islander Resort Goldcoast & 3N in Ibis Styles Kingsgate Melbourne or similar - Daily breakfast - Return Airport & Land Transfers as per Fr$ itinerary

Fr$

9D SUMMER CANADA WEST COAST ROCKIES TOUR Gift Pack valued over $118! Includes Vancouver Night Tour, Mini Ferry, National Park Admission Ride the special glass-bottom Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the longest continuous lift system in the world Stay overnight in Victoria & explore the historic cities of Duncan & Chemainus - Stroll through the Famous Butchart Gardens with experiencing dramatic floral displays during the Victoria tour - Min 2 persons, daily departure

1258

Fr$

8D6N BEST OF MELBOURNE & TASMANIA FREE Melbourne City Tour Philip Island Penguin Parade - Penguin Plus Great Ocean Road Adventure/ Sovereign Hill/ Mt. Buller Snow Day Hobart Deluxe Tour/ Grand Hobart & Bonorong Wildlife Park Tour / Huon Valley Tour Full Day Tour - Grand Port Arthur Tour - Stay 3N in Hotel Sophia Melbourne & 3N in Travelodge Hobart or similar - Daily breakfast - Return Airport & Land Transfers as per itinerary Fr$

1158 Promotion T&Cs Apply

18 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

CELEBRATING THE DIVERSITY OF INDIA

India is a country steeped in cultural and traditional festivals, thanks to its diverse castes, cultures, and religions. The following are some of the major festivities to be a part of or to witness: HOLI (23rd March 2016)

Holi, arguably one of the more well-known fiestas internationally, is the festival of colours (also known as the festival of love). Celebrating the arrival of spring, the value of forgiveness, and healing broken relationships, it is a time for individuals to throw caution to the wind and indulge in frivolous merry-making. This is done primarily through playfully smearing coloured powder and water on family, friends, and strangers in the streets, accompanied by singing and dancing. The festival date varies every year, as per the Hindu calendar, and is typically celebrated in March.

VALLAM KALI (SNAKE BOAT RACE)/ ONAM (13 September, 2016):

Vallam Kali is a traditional boat race in Kerala, India. A form of canoe racing, it is mainly conducted during the season of the harvest festival called Onam in autumn. Vallam Kali includes races of many kinds of paddled longboats - the traditional boats of Kerala. The race of Chundan Vallam (snake boat) is the major event. Hence Vallam Kali is also known as the Snake Boat Race and is a major tourist attraction.

MASK DANCE PERFORMANCE AT LADAKH FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL PROCESSION

grounds, proving to be quite the visual feast. The state government has accorded the status of ‘international festival’ to Kullu Dussehra, which attracts over 400,000 attendees – locals and tourists alike – annually.

CHHATH PUJA (6th Nov, 2016)

DEVOTEES AT KULLU DUSSEHRA

LADAKH FESTIVAL (18th-25th September 2016)

Ladakh festival takes place in second last week of September every year in Leh, a town in the Himalayas. It showcases Ladakh’s culture, traditions, and heritage. The ceremony takes place in Leh, with a large procession of various cultural troupes from different parts of Ladakh. The festival lasts for 15 days with a regular program conducted in different villages. Partake in one of the many programs which include archery, polo, and mask dances from the monasteries, concerts, and traditional dances organised by the various troupes from villages.

Chhath Puja (also called Dala Chhath) is a Hindu festival popular in the Northern and Eastern Indian states. It is typically celebrated six days after Deepavali, the festival of lights. Chhath is mainly characterised by riverside rituals in which the Sun God is worshipped. Devotees believe that the Sun God bestows all blessings in life upon them; so in return, they offer up special prayers and carry out specific rituals both at dawn and at dusk. The morning ‘arghya’ is a prayer for a good harvest, peace and prosperity while the evening ‘arghya’ is an expression of thanks to the benevolence of the Sun God for all that he has granted during the year. It is quite a marvellous sight to witness and experience, as throngs of people in multi-coloured traditional wear, gather just before sunrise and sunset, to offer up prayers and offerings.

PUSHKAR FAIR (8-12 November, 2016)

Pushkar is one of the world’s largest camel fairs, taking place at the banks of the Pushkar Lake. Quirky competitions such

PUSHKAR FAIR

as the “longest moustache” and “bridal competition” are some of the main attractions for this fair. In recent years the fair has also included a cricket match, in which tourists are welcome to participate.

A camel race signals the start of the festival, and is accompanied by music, songs and exhibitions. Pushkar Camel Fair is one of India’s most highly-rated travel experiences, attracting more than 11,000 camels, horses and cattle and visited by over 400,000 people over a period of fourteen days. For visitors, it’s a once-in-alifetime opportunity to be part of and witness the grandeur and charm of one of the last great traditional village fairs, which brings livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all over Rajasthan.

KULLU DUSSEHRA (11th October, 2016):

The festival of Kullu Dusshera originated from royal beginnings, and has evolved into a celebration of religion, culture, and community. Celebrated over a period of seven days in the panoramic Kullu Valley, it is considered to be one of the most sacred festivals in India. The highlights do not end with the grand processions. Stalls selling a myriad of wares and food vendors cooking up a storm line the festival

Visit Incredible India at the NATAS Travel Fair, Booth 7H10 or log on to www.incredibleindia.org Tel: +65 6235 3800, Email: info@indiatourism.com.sg KULLU DUSSEHRA

19 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

Himalayas on Wheels

Shivalik Himalayas

Lower Himalays

High Himalayan Ranges

8D7N Himachal – The Lap of Snow

Hurry!

S$ 100/-

Trans Himalayas

8D7N Darjeeling, Sikkim, Kalimpong

Discount Per Person bo

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Shimla, Kullu-Manali, Dharamsala & Amritsar (Golden Temple) Cost: S$

01

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1098/- (Land Only Economy Hotels)

,2

Darjeeling, Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Namchi, Kalimpong Cost: S$

1228/- (Land Only Standard Hotels)

9D8N Manali to Ladakh over 6 Passes

9D8N Spiti Excursion over 2 High Passes

Chandigarh, Manali, Keylong, Sarchu, Leh with Pangong Lake Overnight

Shimla, Kalpa, Kaza, Kunzum Pass & Kullu-Manali

Cost: S$

1278/- (Land Only Economy Hotels)

Cost: S$

1198/- (Land Only Standard Hotels)

9D8N Kashmir to Ladakh over 4 Passes

8D7N Golden Temple to Kashmir

Srinagar – Gulmarg – Kargil – Leh & Pangong Lake Overnight

Amritsar, Jammu, Pahalgam, Srinagar & Gulmarg

Cost: S$

1328/- (Land Only Standard Hotels)

Cost: S$

1298/- (Land Only Standard Hotels)

Single Traveller Cost available with choices of 3 types of Hotels Book at Travel Revolution: Booth: C52

101 Upper Cross Street, #B1-19/20, People’s Park Center, Singapore 058357 Tel: 6534 1133 Email: sales@farmosa.com.sg Website: www.farmosa.com.sg Itinerary planned & managed by Incredible Odyssey Pte Ltd. STB License No: 02478

Book at NATAS Travel Fair: Booth: 7H12 101 Upper Cross Street, 07-08,People’s Park Center, Singapore 058357 Tel: 6533 6911 Email: ob@atgtours.com.sg Website: www.atgtours.sg All prices are based on 6 pax to go.

T&C Apply

20 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

NEWFOUND MARVELS OF TAIWAN Exploring the natural wonders of Taiwan will open your eyes to a whole new perspective of this small island nation.

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ost of us have heard about the delicious street food, the bustling night markets and the quirky themed restaurant concepts that Taiwan has to offer, and we often stick to such popular recommendations from friends, family and fellow travellers alike.

Instead, consider throwing away all your preconceptions of Taiwan, and embrace all that nature has to offer; the lush mountains and hills, that fresh breath of air by the river – details that are right under your nose (and eyes) but often overlooked.

Hot Springs in Sanxia

A traditional, suburban district that exudes old tradition and culture, Sanxia is best known for its old street that recounts the area’s rich past as an influential productions base, as well as the impressive architecture of Qingshui Zushi Temple. However, unbeknown to most tourists, Sanxia also boasts of an all-natural hot springs area immersed within the forest. The Great Roots Forestry Spa Resort, which is named after an enormous century-old buttress tree, is a unique spa resort where you will find an assortment of outdoor hot springs surrounded by serene nature and picturesque mountain views. Famous for their ‘beauty bath’, the carbonic hot spring waters here are colourless and odourless, and are believed to have healing and beautifying properties that work wonders on your nervous and digestive systems, as well as aid in cell activation. If you prefer more privacy, the resort also provides different types of indoor hot spring baths or spa where you can soak in comfort.

Bring out the adventurous soul in you as you take on recreational forest activities like rock climbing, hiking or even a leisurely forest trail.

Breathe in the deep, woodsy scent of the forest, admire the rich variety of flora and fauna, and take the time to simply relax and clear your mind.

NATURE CYCLING IN WTAIWAN

possible by the accessible public bicycles that are available for rent. Exploring a foreign town or city on a bicycle gives you a different insight into the lives of the locals, or even

Nature cycling on Dong Fong/ Houfeng Bicycle Path In Taiwan, you often see the locals zipping from place to place on a trusty bicycle, made

RELEASING SKY LANTERNS

reward you with surprising marvels that may otherwise remain hidden to the average tourist. So, why not go off the beaten track (albeit literally) and opt for a leisurely afternoon of bike riding along the scenic routes of Taiwan? One interesting cycling path that you must not miss is the Dong Feng Bikeway, a 13-kilometre-long bicycle trail that was converted from old railway tracks in Houli. Visual treats along this path includes a breathtaking view overlooking the Shigang Dam and the surrounding lake, a Japanese-era rice-husking barn, and a magnificent Hakka Cultural Museum that was reconstructed from a traditional Hakka home.

Head to the adjoining Houfeng Bikeway section to relish the unique experience of cycling through the covered No. 9 tunnel and make your way across Dajia River on a steel bridge built way back in 1908, before you backtrack back to Dong Feng Bikeway to get an up-close look at the Lover’s Bridge and an abandoned railway train.

Dakeng Leisure Farm

SUN MOON LAKE

Chickens pecking on the ground, greedy pigs snorting and rolling around in the mud and peacocks strutting along the lawn; these are the sights that greet you at the family-run Dakeng Leisure Farm. Originally started off as a native chicken farm, it was expanded to include a chicken restaurant after the second generation of the Tsai family took over, before it was converted into the current eco-friendly leisure farm that it is today. Built on the slopes of Dakeng Mountain, the spacious compound

offers accommodation in the form of upscale villas, forest huts and Japanese style-dormitories, all simply outfitted with beautiful wooden furnishings. Try your hand at bamboo weaving or the traditional way of making glutinous rice cake, or hike up to the hilltop viewing tower for a spectacular view of the landscape, before making your way down the hill via the single-rope footbridge or a thrilling ride on the sky slider. Indulge in a mouth-watering, home-cooked meal specially whipped up by the Tsai family members themselves, or unwind at the Boat House bar with a cocktail mix prepared by one of the three daughters.

Releasing Sky Lanterns at Pingxi

A popular activity to do in Taiwan that has become somewhat of a tradition for both tourists and locals alike, is the releasing of sky lanterns. Blessings and wishes are written on large paper lanterns before they are lit up and released into the skies, an action that symbolizes the sending of your wishes to God (or one’s ancestors in heaven). If you happen to be in the right place at the right time, you may even get to catch the annual Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, where thousands of people gather to release their lanterns simultaneously, resulting in a stunning sight of countless lanterns illuminating the night sky.

For more information on tours and packages to Taiwan, please refer to page 21 or visit https://www.wtstravel.com.sg for more information

21 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

22 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

Welcome to Kuala Lumpur, a metropolis that will leave you with more than just a lingering memory of its iconic attractions.

Kuala Lumpur draws travellers to its historic monuments, towering skyscrapers, and massive malls that exhibit an array of designer goods and products. However, the bustling capital is also well-known for its equally notable gastronomic delights.

Victoria Station

Hop on to Victoria Station at Jalan Ampang for a unique dining experience. This themed restaurant stands out among others as it is designed and decorated to look exactly like a train station. Some lucky patrons even get to dine in train carriages as part of the whole experience.

The Victoria Station serves western food, and they are famous their grilled steaks, which have been prepared the same way for three generations. The portions served for their charbroiled steak is generous, the meat succulent and juicy. The thick gravy poured over the steak compliments it well and brings out the full flavour of the beef. Another dish that is popular in Victoria Station includes their Escargot appetiser. Their escargots are dressed in a special sauce and baked to perfection.The good food is accompanied by the excellent ambience of the place.

The innovative approach to the train station theme gives a classy and welcoming feel to the whole restaurant. Dining here will definitely be an unforgettable experience that should be shared with your loved ones.

For more information, visit www.vistoriastation.com.my

VICTORIA STATION

WESTERN FOOD

INTERIOR OF VICTORIA STATION

Baan 26

Treat yourself to some authentic Thai cuisine at the award winning Baan26 restaurant.

The restaurant’s director, Kah Fei, loves Thailand and its cuisine. From the ambience of the restaurant to the food spread, he has dedicated the whole place to recreating the real Thai dining experience. It’s hard to pick and choose from their wide variety of traditional Thai dishes offered such as Thai Fish Cakes, Pad Thai, Pineapple rice, Thai Green Curry Chicken, and more. Indulge in Baan 26’s Spicy Tom Yam Soup and experience an explosion of flavours in your mouth. This aromatic dish has the right amount of spice and a tangy taste that will leave you craving for more. A specialty of theirs is the Lime and Chilli Steamed Fish, sea bass served in bubbling hot broth. With the tangy lime and spicy chilli paired together, the combination of flavours compliment the sweet, soft fish meat.

End your meal on a sweet note with a classic Thai dessert, the mango sticky rice. The balance kept between the soft and sticky glutinous rice, the milky coconut milk, and the sweet, ripe mangoes, helps to keep the dessert fragrant with the right amount of sweetness.With scrumptious food and a chill atmosphere, Baan 26 is the perfect place to wind down, relax, and catch up with old friends.

For more information, visit THAI CUISINE www.bann26.com

BAAN 26

EL CERDO

PAELLA

El Cerdo

COCHINILLO AL ESTILO SEGOVIANO

If you’re craving for something special, head down to El Cerdo and pig out on their pork dishes.

Located in Changkat Bukit Bintang, El Cerdo, Spanish for “The Pig”, offers a full nose to tail eating experience. The 10-year-old restaurant has earned its title of the best pork restaurant in KL with its wide variety of porky dishes. Each dish is cooked and prepared differently using assorted methods and flavours from all over the world.

Their signature dish is the Cochinillo Al Estilo Segoviano, a Spanish Roasted Suckling Piglet with savoury, crispy skin and juicy tender meat. The pig is imported from Denmark and marinated for a full day before being roasted for 30 minutes. To top it off, the pig is served on a wooden board and you are invited to partake in the Spanish tradition of cutting up the pig with a plate and smashing it after-a sign of good luck.

If the food wasn’t good enough to satisfy your palate, this pig-themed establishment completely adapts to an all-pig embellishments, from pig statues to artworks of pigs. If you are planning for an upcoming birthday celebration or dinner, do consider dropping by at El Cerdo’s and letting them know in advance, they will prepare a special birthday surprise. This pig themed restaurant is a must visit for all pork lovers.

For more information, visit www.elclerdokl.com

23 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Opening for the first time in JB, the Swiss Hotel provides guests with more than the conventional stay.

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he popular Swiss-Garden International hotel opens its new branch in the heart of Johor Bahru. The Swiss-Inn Johor Bahru is conveniently located in the heart of the city, nearby airports and customs checkpoint. The hotel’s stylish décor exudes an air of contemporary sophistication that promises travellers comfort and luxury living in a modern city. The Swiss-Inn Johor Bahru is the perfect rest stop for your holiday in the city, as it is just a ten-minute walk from shopping centres like City Square and Bazaar JB. Wind down and relax in any of their 205 luxurious rooms available, ranging from a cosy couples’ room to an elaborate suite for six. The establishment consists of various recreational facilities, three different food and beverage outlets; and multifunction rooms for meetings and functions.

The Swiss-Inn Johor Bahru is an ideal option for family vacations, due to its proximity to nearby attractions. The hotel is surrounded by several theme parks such as, The Angry Birds Activity Park, Legoland Malaysia, Hello Kitty and Thomas Town Theme Park, Austin Heights Water and Adventure Theme Park, that are all a short drive away.

On top of that, this family-friendly hotel also has an ‘All for One, Fun for All’ theme park package that includes 2 Day/1 Night stay from RM268 per adult and RM188 per child. This exclusive package includes breakfast and a choice of one full day outing at Legoland Theme Park and Water Park; or one

full day at Hello Kitty Town and Thomas Town plus Angry Birds Activity Park; or one full day at Austin Heights Water and Adventure Park plus Angry Birds Activity Park.

To make a reservation or to enquire further information, call Swiss-Inn Johor Bahru at: +607 218 3333 or visit www.swissgarden.com/sijb for more information.

24 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

TRAVEL ESSENTIAL

LOST PASSPORT WOES BE GONE

We take you through what you need to do in the event where you lose your passport in a foreign country

Y

ou finally arrive at your dream destination, and you spend a lazy afternoon wandering along the charming streets of Italy, camera shutter clicking all the way as you marvel at the amazing sights that surround you. A floaty tourmaline dress draped on the mannequin catches your roving eye as you peek into the window of a snazzy little boutique, and you decide to indulge in some spontaneity and purchase that little number. Just as you are making payment, you dig into your bag for your passport to get your VAT refund, but it is nowhere to be found. An hour of futile searching and backtracking turns up nothing, and you begin to feel panic rising in your throat.

Losing something as important as your passport in the midst of your trip overseas can be a mind-scrambling experience, throwing a wrench into all your travel plans in a single instant. However, knowing what to do would go a long way towards keeping your head in such a situation, and even minimising the disruption to your itinerary.

SINGAPOREAN HONORARY CONSULATE

Before you go

As the old adage goes, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Before you fly, preparing these documents and bringing them along on your travels would work wonders during such circumstances. Firstly, make a copy of your identity card and your passport, whether it may be in the form of an actual photocopy or a photo taken using your phone. If you are travelling with family or friends, you may consider preparing the respective documents on their behalf or suggest that they do the same as well.

Bear in mind to keep the copies of these documents with you at all times, and make sure you do not keep them in your wallet or even with your passport, as it would defeat their purpose if you lose them along with your passport.

Bringing along two passport-sized photographs of yourself – and urging your travel companions to do the same – would also come in handy in the situation where you need to obtain replacement travel documents. Another point of advice is that you should also check beforehand and find out where the embassy is located in your travel destination/s, including important details such as its operating hours and non-working days, so that you know where and when you need to go. This is especially important, as the destination/s that you are headed to may not have a Singapore overseas mission based there, which means that the nearest embassy may be located in another part of the country.

These information can all be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) website, or you can contact them via phone or email should you require more assistance.

The final preparation step, which is also one of the most essential, is to get yourself insured for your vacation. What you need to look into are the different types and various degrees of coverage each policy offers before deciding on one that suits your needs best, taking into consideration the destination of travel as well. For instance, you should look out for policies that provide better coverage and higher payout limits for the loss of personal property or belongings if you are travelling to cities where purse-snatching and pickpocketing are rampant.

What to do when you lose your passport

Once you have realised that you have indeed lost your passport (and not simply misplaced it somewhere), you should head to the closest police station to make a police report.

Request a printed copy of the report or any acknowledgement document with the report number along with the name and location of the police station. You will need this report to procure your replacement travel documents as well as make a successful claim on your travel insurance for the cost of replacing your passport.

The following few steps are where all your preparation before the trip would prove useful, saving you some time and effort in the process. First, you need to contact the nearest Singapore Mission and make an appointment to replace your passport. Make sure to prepare all the necessary documents before making your way down to the embassy, such as a copy of your police report, your proof of identity and two passport photos. If you did not prepare suitable photographs

ASSISTANCE FROM THE TOUR MANAGER

in advance, you may want to ask for directions to an ID photo booth where you can get your photo taken. These computer-operated booths can usually be found in underground subway or metro stations, but do take note that not all stations have them.

Next, report the loss to the Singapore overseas mission and present the relevant supporting documents. You will need to pay an admin fee before you receive a Document of Identity, which will fill in as your temporary passport to facilitate your return to Singapore. Following your arrival back in Singapore, you would need to apply for a replacement passport in person at the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority within 14 days of the loss.

For more information, please visit http://www.ica.gov.sg

25 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

A TRAVELLER’S PARADISE As a prominent destination for outbound travellers, Changi Airport has steadily grown to become a haven for flyers visiting Singapore, and in transit.

C

hangi Airport is known for being one of the best airports in the world, to the extent of becoming a place that even non-travellers frequent. This is due to the amenities offered here, and the convenience it presents to its travellers. To bring the best to its consumers, Changi Recommends was established to provide travellers with the best experience in Singapore by picking the finest selection of boutiques, bars, restaurants and attractions. The subsidiary of Changi Airport Group also provides services that are consumer-friendly and convenient.

For instance, e-vouchers are sent to smart phones and are easily redeemable by presenting it to relevant merchants.

For ease of access, Changi Recommends booths are

positioned in all three terminals. Retail staff will assist customers with their travel necessities, ranging from overseas SIM cards, to even a portable Wi-Fi router, that can be collected from the 24-hour booths located within the terminals of the airport. Travellers can easily make an online

reservation for their Wi-Fi devices and collect them as they fly off, or drop them off when they return back to Singapore.

For more information, please visit http://www.changirecommends.com

26 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

PRAGUE CASTLE

REVISIT A CAPITAL FROZEN IN TIME

Embodying the rich history of Europe in every shape, form and space imaginable, Prague, capital of the Czech Republic, bares its ageless beauty to travelers near and far.

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he soft sound of your footfalls bounce off the walls and echo through the baroque halls. At any moment you expect to hear someone shushing you, but as you stop in your tracks, the monastic library settles back into its nonchalant silence, just then the tour guide whispers something into your ear, while pointing to the arched ceiling above you. Your eyes settle on the designs etched into the high ceiling, serving as a framework for the equally awe-inspiring paintings that captures the artistic styles of the 17th and 18th century.

Here in the Strahov Monastery, the largest monastic library in Prague, the past remains sheltered from the flow of time.

Prague, the capital and largest city situated in the Czech Republic, is wellknown for its historic landmarks, and architecture embellished with intricate artworks. Listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city prides itself in the preservation of ancient structures imprinted in time, prominent religious, and cultural places of interest. Prague earned

its nickname, “the City of a Hundred Spires”, as most of the buildings were built with an acutely pointed pyramidal roof, erected at the very top of the building.

Sedlec Ossuary/ Church of Bones

If you have a deep appreciation for all kinds of architecture, even ones that conjure a grim and dark atmosphere, then the Sedlec Ossuary is a must visit on anyone’s list.

Dubbed the Church of Bones, this Roman Catholic chapel built beneath the Cemetery Church of All Saints, incorporates more than 40,000 skeletons to serve as furnitures and decorations. Despite its eccentricity, the Ossuary draws over 200,000 people annually. Not sparing any part of the human skeleton, almost every corner is occupied with skulls and bones meant to adorn the walls of the interior, this includes an enormous skeletal chandelier that hangs from the ceiling of the chapel. In the late 1800s, a woodcarver was assigned with the task of organising the bones such that it amplified the unconventional charm of the oratory.

27 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016 St Vitus Cathedral

After taking almost six centuries and several builders to aid the completion of its construction, the St Vitus Cathedral rules the skyline of Prague with an imposing presence that makes an impression on even the most seasoned traveler. The Cathedral’s grandeur befits royalty, to the extent of kings, queens and even patron saints to be placed in the royal mausoleum, located in front of the high altar, as their final resting place.

In stark contrast to its ghastly and foreboding exterior of the St Vitusguarded by Gargoyles, the interior exhibits depictions of saints, angels and the like, on the stain glass windows in a vibrant choreography of colours stretching across the large panels. In addition, the Cathedral also boasts a collection of valuable antiquities, such as, the 14th-century of the Last Judgement above the Golden Gate, the baroque silver tomb of St John of Nepomuck and the ornate Chapel of St Wenceslas amongst others.

The biggest bell in the republic is held in the Great South Tower of the Cathedral, the 287 steps are well worth the climb for visitors looking to capture a panoramic view of the entire metropolis. Although admission is free for the first part of the premises, a ticket is required to explore the rest.

PHOTOS: PRAGUE CITY TOURISM

Prague Castle

Once the residence of Czech royalty, emperors and presidents for thousands of years, the Prague Castle stands regally above the Vltava’s, the longest river within the Czech Republic, left bank. The massive complex is home to the dominant St. Vitus Cathedral, a towering Gothic masterpiece, and reverent spiritual symbol of the Czech state. The compound also comprises of several museums, art galleries, viewing towers and other spots to pique the curiosity and interest of the public.

THE VLTAVA RIVER AND VYSEHRAD

Old Town Square

Said to be the heart of the capital, the Old Town Square is where you’ll discover the soul of Prague permeating through the buildings, churches and numerous multicoloured houses in the surrounding area. The winding lanes run through the quaint town and spill out onto the Old Town Hall, where the distinct astronomical clock resides. Dating back to the 12th century, structures adopting the Romanesque, Baroque, and Gothic architectural style were constructed to magnify the charm of the square. Each addition to the square came with stories of wealthy merchants and underhanded political dealings, thus breathing life into the stoic frameworks.

Several cafes are lined along the square, giving patrons the chance to relax and to fully immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and atmosphere of the square.

ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK

Astronomical Clock

OLD TOWN SQUARE

The medieval astronomical clock mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall, is the oldest clock in the world that is still in operation to this day.

Filled with fascinating symbolism, the clock demonstrates a tangible display of time in the form of moving figures, and rotating zodiacal rings. Crowds gather beneath the attraction to catch a glimpse of the Clock in action. When the clock strikes the hour, the figures break their statuesque demeanour and move in a clockwork precision to delight onlookers to a 45-second mechanical performance.

The performance ends when the huge bell positioned at the top of the tower is rung.

The four figures were specifically chosen to represent the worries that befuddled 15thcentury Praguers.

CHARLES BRIDGE

Charles Bridge

Linking the two sides of Prague, namely Old Town and the Lesser Town/ Prague castle, the Charles Bridge remains as one of Prague’s timeless treasures.

The 14th century stone bridge is ornamented with 75 Baroque statues, and provides an expansive view of the surrounding vicinity as you stroll along

the old cobblestone path. Emanating a majestic demeanour by day, and casting a romantic ambience by night, the Charles bridge has long since been the muse of artists, poets and musicians.

Visit EU Holidays at Travel Revolution 2016, Booth: A2 or log on to www.euholidays.com.sg for more information

28 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

29 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

30 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

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31 | Travel Journal | Issue 05 | March 2016

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