roam magazine_ issue10

DIVE INTO THE

GO "HOME" TO TAIWAN

Hospitality options that put

a new spin on holidaymaking

THE MAGIC OF MANILAExplore the wonders of a 'city within a city' at Resorts World Manila

Maldives!

23RDMAR – AUG 2012

ww

w.w

tstravel.com.sg

5STAR DINING EXPERIENCES • SMARTPHONES • TOURING CHINA WITH BEN YEOOINSIDE

Y O U R T R A V E L E X P E R T

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Foreword

DEAR READERS,Every passing year brings with it new opportunities and challenges, and this year of the Dragon is no exception. With the coming school breaks and public holidays on the horizon, competition in the tourism industry will be fi erce.

To stand out from the crowd, WTS Travel hopes to cultivate an interest in the sector — in terms of career prospects and professional advancement — among the youth. With this in mind, we opened the ITE-WTS Travel Resource Centre at ITE College West (Choa Chu Kang) early last year. At this facility, youngsters who are keen to work in the travel industry will be able to learn important skills there that will bring them far, both professionally and personally. These include skills such as ascertaining and exceeding customers’ expectations, telephone etiquette and personal grooming.

WTS Travel has also presented scholarships to students who’ve performed well and also provided attachment programmes to give them an important taste of a real-world working environment. Grooming new blood also helps to ensure that our level of customer service is unparalleled. We’re confi dent that these fresh faces will quickly adapt to the demands of this industry while also being able to provide a wealth of knowledge on our packages and destinations.

By tapping into the youth, we’re also looking to reach out to a new generation of travellers. We’re seeing more globetrotters turning to the Internet instead of their travel agent for the latest deals and to book their trips. To accommodate this rising demand, WTS Travel is also moving into the social media realm. Expect to see more of us on popular web communities like Facebook and Twitter, where you’ll see exclusive promos and deals, as well as the latest news updates.

It looks to be a busy — but defi nitely exciting — year ahead, and we can’t wait to embrace the changes that will come. You’ll fi nd out a little of what we have in store in this issue, and we hope that it’ll inspire you to be a part of our journey as well. Here’s wishing everyone a happy and prosperous 2012!

With best wishes,MICKER SIA CHAO CONGManaging DirectorWTS Travel & Tours Pte Ltd

ENTER THE

亲爱的读者，

一元复始万象新，预示开启全新的机运与挑战，威

猛的龙年当然势头更强劲。随着学校假期及公共假

期的到来，旅游业必有一番激烈的龙争虎斗。

为了能够脱颖而出，WTS旅游积极发掘青少年对

这个领域的兴趣，使他们意识到旅游业的良好事业

前景及专业发展。抱持这项宗旨，我们去年年初已

在工艺教育西区学院（蔡厝港）开设ITE-WTS旅游资

源中心。透过该中心的卓越培育计划，有志投身旅

游业的青少年将能够学习到各种重要技能，从而提

升本身的专业度及品德，这些技能包括确定并超越

客户的期望、电话礼仪及个人仪表形象。

对于表现杰出的优秀生，WTS旅游将提供奖学

金，此外也会提供实习课程计划，为他们精心打造

一个真实的工作环境。透过持续为该领域注入新

血，将有助于确保我们的客户服务水平是无可比拟

的。我们坚信，这批新的生力军将迅速适应旅游行

业的各项需求，同时掌握有关我们的旅游配套及目

的地等丰富的知识。

积极培育新血之际，我们也期

盼能触及更多新一代的旅客。我

们看到更多的环球观光客已改变

传统的做法——咨询他们的旅游

代理，转而透过互联网来寻求最

新的旅游资讯，以及预定行程。

为了迎合急速增长的新时代需

求，WTS Travel也踊跃进军社交媒

体领域。请热烈期待我们在面子

书及Twitter等知名社交网上的活

络身影，那里有各种独家促销、

优惠活动以及最新的新闻信息呈献给您。

展望未来，预计将会是繁忙紧凑的一

年，但也绝对令人雀跃振奋。我们已迫不及

待要拥抱接踵而至的种种改变与突破。在本

期期刊里，您将会发现到我们目前所推介的

一些优质项目，但愿它能激发您美妙的灵感，进而

投入我们的丰盛之旅。谨此恭祝大家万事如意!

祝愿吉祥如意

MICKER SIA CHAO CONG

董事经理

贵宾旅运私人有限公司

龙年畅游

好运来DRAGON

WTS Travel’s Mr Micker Sia (3rd from left) and Mr Voo Wei Keong (far left) presenting the scholarship to one of the ITE students.

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Contents

EDITORIAL SENIOR EDITOR Agatha Koh Brazil

EDITOR Ronald Rajan

WRITERS Gene Khor, Fairoza Mansor

SENIOR DESIGNER Neo Aik Sing

CONTRIBUTORGwen Lin

DIVE INTO THE

GO "HOME" TO TAIWAN

Hospitality options that put

a new spin on holidaymaking

THE MAGIC OF MANILAExplore the wonders of a 'city within a city' at Resorts World Manila

Maldives!

23RDMAR – AUG 2012

ww

w.w

tstravel.com.sg

5STAR DINING EXPERIENCES • SMARTPHONES • TOURING CHINA WITH BEN YEOOINSIDE

Y O U R T R A V E L E X P E R T BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT MANAGER Michele Kho

WTS TRAVELEDITORIAL ADVISORS Voo Wei Keong & Kenny Teoh

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Lim Yi-Nyn

For adver sement enquiries, please email adver [email protected] or [email protected].

ROAM is published biannually by MediaCorp Pte Ltd for WTS Travel. Copyright is held by the Publishers. All rights reserved. Reproduc on in part or whole without permission is prohibited.

Printed in Singapore by KHL Prin ng MICA (P) 106/05/2010

36 VIEWPOINTS Stand a chance to win a cool

prize by telling us about your top travel experience

FEATURES10 THE MAGIC OF MANILA The Philippine capital covers

all bases for your holiday fi x

18 HEARTWARMING JOURNEYS

Let Taiwan’s natural beauty rejuvenate your soul

LIFESTYLE24 TOUR TALK WTS Travel helped make

the Powen Group’s 30th anniversary party a splash

ON THE COVER14 DIVE INTO THE

MALDIVES! It’s sun, sand, sea and more

in this tropical paradise

REGULARS1 FOREWORD WTS Travel’s Managing

Director Micker Sia gets ready for the challenges of the Dragon year

4 WTS TRAVEL NEWS Check out the latest

WTS Travel news

22 HOT TRAVEL DEALS Plan your escapes with these

hot destination deals

28 TASTEBUDS Savour the delights at

Singapore’s most exquisite fi ne dining spots

30 TOUR TALKA recent sensory feast in southern China led by MediaCorp artiste Ben Yeo

31 TRAVEL INFORMATION Weather and embassy details

32 STYLISH TRAVELLER Stay connected and

entertained wherever you are with these smartphones

34 WHAT’S ON The latest events happening

around Singapore and Malaysia

HOT

TRAVEL

DEALS!

SEE P22

14

10

28

HOT

TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTRAVDEA

SE

MAR – AUG 2012

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ETTY IM

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ES

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4 ROAM

Faye Wong lights up the stage during her recent concert.

(Inset) concert goers brandishing their goodie bags

A STYLISH SALUTEOn a night characterised by the shimmer of sequins and an all things colourful — from outfi ts to characters — WTS Travel’s most dedicated staff were honoured at the Long Service Award Dinner 2010/2011. Held on 7 January 2012 at WTS Travel’s parent company Woodland Transport’s compound at Gul Link, Tuas, the evening saw motivated employees who have been with WTS Travel for as long as 20 years being awarded with a commemorative plaque and prize for their contributions to the company. The award winners also got to be ‘movie stars’ for a day, as they were honoured in a special video presentation that drew thunderous applause from their peers and management. Everyone present proved to be a ‘winner’ however, as they were treated to entertaining performances by professional singers and getai stars, while $15,000 worth of lucky draw prizes were won.

THE QUEEN HOLDS COURTBeing the offi cial supporting partner for the Faye Wong Live 2011 concert in Singapore Indoor Stadium (29 October 2011) was one of the highlights of WTS Travel’s stellar year. The event was billed as a highly-anticipated return to the spotlight for the Queen of Mandarin pop, who had not toured or released an album in over half a decade. Also,the artiste’s take-no-prisoner approach to the artistic direction and production of each concert meant that there were high expectations of this multi-million dollar stage set up.

In its role for the event, WTS Travel provided reliable, effi cient and courteous service and helped ensure that all the complex preparations went ahead without a hitch. For its loyal customers, the company organised contests through SMS and Facebook, with close to 20 winners scoring concert tickets worth from $236 to $446 a pair. It also provided items inside the goodie bags that every concert-goer received, so that the fans could go home with more than just memories of an amazing night.

This marks the fi rst time that WTS Travel has ventured into music event sponsorship. “In a dynamic marketing landscape such as Singapore, it is important to look beyond just exposure from traditional media,” says Micker Sia, Managing Director of WTS Travel & Tours. “The WTS Travel brand aims to stay relevant to its core market as well as the outlying markets. And we are proud to be part of this momentous music event”.

The pioneering spirit is not new to WTS Travel. The company has enjoyed an online presence on social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook for many years now and continues to look to new media landscapes to interact with the consumers and adapt to their needs.

WTS TRAVEL NEWS

WTS TRAVEL:

Bringing on

2012!

gtributions tobe ‘movie

cial videoom their proveded togers ky

e

All dressed up and ready to party through the night!

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www.wtstravel.com.sg 5

THE ‘ACE’ OF CLUBS!WTS Travel has been a trusted name for travellers looking to book Club Med holidays at destinations across the world for almost a decade now, and its association with this celebrated purveyor of ‘all-inclusive’ holidays was recently recognised at a gala event. On 1 December 2011, Club Med paid tribute to its travel agent partners at the Club Med Night 2011 at Avalon, a club venue at Marina Bay Sands’ Southern Crystal Pavilion. At the event, WTS Travel was acknowledged as the No. 2 best performing agent for Club Med holiday sales in Singapore and its Director Mr Voo Wei Keong accepted the award on the company’s behalf. This also

marks WTS Travel’s second year of being within the top two positions. In Mr Voo’s view, this achievement is a milestone for WTS Travel and is a testament to the dedication of the company’s tour sales consultants and Club Med product team for their highly effective communication and product knowledge.

iWIN!Going on a trip proved to be a very rewarding experience to one lucky WTS Travel customer recently. When Mr Kwan Kok Seng booked his family a Chinese New Year vacation for 11 adults to Genting Highlands at the Travel Malaysia 2012 event, he probably wouldn’t have guessed he was on his way to win big in the lucky draw. The iProsperity lucky draw organised by the travel agency had many goodies to give away, with the grand prize of the coveted Apple iPad 2 — which went to Mr Kwan.

Upon being being notifi ed of the draw result, the lucky winner immediately made his way to the WTS Travel offi ce. There, Mr Kwan shared his pleasant holiday experiences with the staff, adding that he had been able to enjoy

a good Chinese New Year with his family (the one which won him the prize) thanks to WTS Travel.

Mr Kwan won’t be alone in his win. The year ahead holds great promise for the rest of WTS Travel’s

customers as well. Look out for more lucky draw prizes and exciting ways to snag some free gifts at the upcoming major travel fairs, as well as on WTS Travel’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/WTStravel.

BONDING OVER BREAKFAST – WTS TRAVEL’S 2012 AGMThere’s no better way to kickstart the new year than on a satisfi ed stomach. With that in mind, the staff of WTS Travel were treated to a hearty breakfast on 3 January 2012 as part of the company’s Annual General Meeting at its Bukit Timah Plaza head offi ce. All the tour desk, operations and management staff from WTS Travel’s eight Singapore outlets gathered at 9am on the fi rst Tuesday of the year to usher in a renewed spirit of solidarity and motivation to achieve even greater success for 2012.

The event started off with a review of the company’s performance, followed by a commendation of the staff and a brief message by the various heads of departments. Managing Director of WTS Travel Mr Micker Sia then gave an inspiring speech in which he reviewed of the company’s performance in 2011 and presented the outlook for 2012, which includes new initiatives, improvements in various aspects of the company and new incentive structures for those who achieve performance excellence. The morning’s event also provided an excellent opportunity for WTS Travel staff to bond and strike up friendships with their colleagues from other outlets over a good meal.

A happy Mr Kwan (right) receiving his prize from WTS Travel’s Assistant Marketing ManagerMr Kenny Teoh

WTS Travel’s Director Mr Voo Wei Keong

accepting the award

Director Mr Voo and Managing Director Mr Micker Sia recognising the outstanding outlet and sta award recipients

experienca good

him

NOW CRUISINGMarking an auspicious start to the new year, two new WTS Travel coaches began plying the route between Singapore and Genting Highlands on 1 February 2012. The two brand new CEO Gold Cruisers are an impressive addition to the operator, which is already one of the largest fl eet-owners in Singapore’s travel and tour industry. They each offer plush seating for 39 passengers spread out over two decks in order to achieve greater privacy and an optimal ride experience. With wider leather seats that cradle the passengers, and larger legroom, the coaches will bring passengers to their destination in style, safety and comfort.

And on the subject of comfort, the CEO Gold Cruiser (as per the majority of the WTS Travel fl eet) boasts a hydraulic air suspension that absorbs bumps and imperfections on the road to make the passengers feel like they are being transported on a cloud. No more jarring suspension squeaks and shuddering cabin vibrations!

Along with these impressive additions, WTS Travel has added several new pick-up locations for the convenience of those traveling by coach to Genting Highlands. The new pick-up locations at Punggol, Hougang, Bishan and Clementi add to the already comprehensive boarding/alighting points all over Singapore.

Be sure to also watch out for more WTS Travel outlets coming to a neighbourhood near you in 2012 as the company has set its sights on further expansion. This is in line with WTS Travel’s dedication to progress, convenience and the provision of quality, attractively-priced travel services.

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6 ROAM

A lready well-known for its pristine white beaches and all-inclusive packages that offer access to diverse activities and amenities,

Club Med Phuket is one of those places you thought just couldn’t be made any better. But not about to rest on its laurels, the resort embarked on a huge renovation project in April last year to offer greater comfort and luxury to its guests.

WINE, DINE, UNWINDCompleted in December 2011, the makeover infused a fresh vibe to the resort, with a notable remodelling of its restaurant. You’ll be spoilt for choice from selecting between fi ve pavilions to dine in. The names of each of the dining areas represent the fi ve human senses — Saveurs (taste), Fragrances (smell), Music (hearing), Colours (sight) and Material (touch). Four are air-conditioned, while the alfresco pavilion will be a sure-hit for those who enjoy the refreshing Andaman Sea breeze as they dine.

The international buffet has more than 90 new dishes in line. Dinner buffet themes have also been introduced, like ‘Red’, offering dishes based on the colour of ingredients, and ‘Modern Classics’, which feature all-time favourites such as Peking

Duck, braised lamb shanks and Tornedos Rossini (a French steak dish).

Dining will prove an educational experience for the kids too. Specially coloured food tags next to the buffet dishes list their ingredients to show what’s in their food. This will help them pick a balanced selection for their meals.

Adding to the dining experience is a new specialty restaurant. Its decor is inspired by the Loy Krathong, the Thai festival of lights. The lights that adorn the ceiling resemble the paper lanterns launched into the night sky during the annual event.

You can grab an after-dinner drink at the bar, a major new addition to the resort. Oval-shaped and purple, it stands out among the wooden furnishings and lush armchairs and sofas that surround it. However, what makes chilling out here a true delight is the spectacular unobstructed panoramic seafront view.

DO IT ALL!Not sure if you can pry yourself away from the kids for some private time with your loved one? Don’t worry; at Petit Club Med, children from 2 to 3 years old will be brought on walks by the staff and get to participate in outdoor activities with other children. And 4 to 10 year-olds at Mini Club Med get to participate in the Clean Art Planet workshop. At this workshop, children give items that have been washed ashore a new lease of life by transforming them into works of art.

At Club Med Phuket, the best just got better with new spaces and facilities designed to give a relaxing holiday experience like no other.

Advertorial

SensesAWAKE THE

Take this opportunity to spend quality time with your partner at the adults-only Zen Pool overlooking Karon Bay. Lounge in their comfortable long chairs while sipping on a cool cocktail. If you prefer a pampering experience, visit the Club Med Spa. Nestled in a quiet Zen garden, it offers various Thai massages and spa treatments.

Other signature Club Med Phuket escapes are also still available. Grab a game of golf at the championship nine-hole course, snorkel and explore the clear blue waters, or go deeper with their world-class scuba diving facilities.

With so much in store, what are you waiting for? Dive into a family experience like no other. For more information, visit www.clubmed.com.sg.

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more exclusive

more inclusive

Call 1800-CLUBMED (258 2633) or contact your Preferred Travel Agent to book your All-

Inclusive Package. Visit www.clubmed.com.sg or www.facebook.com/clubmed.sg

Club Med Yabuli-Heilongjiang, China

DISCOVER A WINTER WONDERLAND AT CLUB MED SKI RESORTS


8 ROAM

Eating out in Singapore is always exciting, especially with a diverse assortment of cuisines to pick from. But standing out — or in this case, up — from the crowd is the Singapore Flyer’s Sky Dining experience.

You’re in for more than a four-course dinner of fi ne-dining fare at the world’s largest giant observation wheel. From the moment you arrive, it’s VIP treatment all the way. You’ll be personally greeted and ushered by the staff into one of their 28 air-conditioned capsules — priority boarding of course. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is picking a main from the four delectable dishes offered. Aside from the salad, soup and dessert, dinner mains range from Grilled Snapper with Mushroom Cream Sauce, Grilled Boneless Chicken with Roasted Black Pepper Sauce, New Zealand Lamb Rack with Fusion Mint Sauce and even a vegetarian option of Potato Croquette.

But because all good things come in pairs, a three-course lunch that includes a salad, main course and dessert is also now available. Pick from mains such as Seabass in Herbs and Bread Crumbs, Pan-fried Chicken Steak, French Duck Confi t served with Brown Sauce, and a vegetarian option of Potato Croquette.

Throughout the hour-long dining affair, you’ll have a dedicated in-capsule butler to serve you and attend

Set your tastebuds soaring skywards

with mouth-watering fare

to all your needs. As you tuck into your main course at an altitude of 165m, you’ll also get to drink in a breathtaking panoramic view of the Central Business

District’s skyline. But just because your meal is over

doesn’t mean that the experience is. Step out of the capsule and into the Journey of Dreams, a multimedia gallery that provides an interactive look at the Singapore Flyer’s journey.

You can also end the night chatting about the experience over a post-dinner cocktail at the Flyer

Lounge, which is managed by the Association of Bartenders and Sommeliers Singapore. It’s only here that you’ll get to savour different award-winning cocktails.

With such a wide array of experiences, the setting accommodates any occasion, whether it’s an intimate evening with a loved one or a unique meal with friends. Whatever it is, Sky Dining at the Singapore Flyer truly is a feast for the senses.

Advertorial

THE

The Sky Dining experience is available daily from $249++ per couple. Slots are available at 12.30pm, 7.30pm and 8.30pm. Diners are expected to book at least a day in advance and check in at least half an hour earlier. For more information on Sky Dining at the Singapore Flyer, visit www.singaporefl yer.com.

High LifeTh e Singapore Flyer takes fi ne dining to new heights –literally – with their revamped Sky Dining experience.

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Y ou crave the lively buzz of integrated resorts, but seek something outside of the familiar choices in Macau. Look no further than Manila. In recent years, the city has undergone

a renaissance that has moved it several notches up the ‘must-do’ list of any international traveller. Boasting three of Asia’s 10-biggest shopping malls, splendid museums and a dizzying nightlife scene, it’s easy to see the city’s lure for travellers looking for a complete holiday experience.

There’s certainly much to see and do here. A colony of Spain for more than three hundred years, the

From retail therapy and entertainment to gourmet indulgences and cultural gems, the Philippine capital off ers you and your family more

than one way to rest and relax. Text GWEN LIN

MANILAGreat Escapes

Philippines then came under the rule of the Americans and Japanese during the 19th and 20th centuries. As a result, the country’s capital city has a rich multicultural vibe that incorporates both Latin and Asian traditions. And if the promise of historic architecture (see box), exotic street food and cultural treasures is not enough, the savvy traveller will be delighted to know that Manila has a new jewel in its crown. Since its grand opening in late November 2010, Resorts World Manila has become a key attraction, with something for everyone in the family, any day, any time.

Manila

10 ROAM

An aerial view of Pasig City Business Area located in the heart of Manila

PHO

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OR

BIS

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From a night out at the club (above) or exploring its many attractive pavilions (left), you can do it all at Resorts World Manila

IN THE LAP OF LUXURYA range of accommodation choices awaits you at this luxury casino resort. Situated in Newport City, Resorts World Manila is only a stone’s throw away from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, so you don’t have to travel much further to fully relax after the fl ight.

While the resort’s 712-room Remington Hotel offers serviced apartments and plush rooms at affordable rates, Marriott Hotel Manila — also within the premises — delivers its renowned brand of hospitality for well-heeled business and leisure travellers. Here, guests can not only unwind in the comfort of their well-appointed rooms and suites, but also at Quan Spa and the Health Club, which is equipped with hot whirlpools, sauna and steam rooms.

Those who want a taste of ultimate luxury will take delight in

the lavishly-furnished accommodation options of the all-suite Maxims Tower. Of the 172 suites there are three royal villas: each boasts 500 sqm of designer space, complete with a private pool for a soak any time you like, kitchen and dining room for intimate dinners, and your very own massage room. These can be rivalled only by the 600 sqm Presidential Suite. A sprawling urban sanctuary with a lush

private garden and swimming pool, a master bathroom with Jacuzzi feature and other top-of-the-line features and amenities, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

GLORIOUS GOURMET

OPTIONS

You don’t have to go far to sample cuisines from all over the world. An international array of fl avours are presented right here at the Resorts World Manila. Slurp up a bowl of ramen at the 24-hour Noodle Works. At this noodle bar, you can also enjoy Chinese comfort food such as dim sum and congee. More fi ne Cantonese dishes can be sampled at Xi Yan, while Ginzadon offers inspiring Japanese-Korean fusion creations. For those who believe that variety is everything, the Mecado international buffet restaurant will whet your appetite with

The Philippines is the world’s third-largest English-speaking nation, next to the United States of America and the United Kingdom. And while US only acquired the Philippines — together with Puerto Rico and Guam — from Spain in 1898, the English language had been introduced to the archipelago much earlier (1762) by the British. Today, most of the people in Manila speak Tagalog and English. Forty per cent of the Filipino language also happens to be derived from Spanish, so you would get by pretty well in Manila even if you spoke only Spanish.


12 ROAM

sights, sounds and smells from the live cooking stations. Have aperitifs at Pool Side bar, and nibble on grilled morsels

before heading to dinner. And after that, digestifs can be enjoyed with live performances at the 24-hour Bar 360. There is also a 24-hour sports bar for those who just want to watch a game of soccer while downing some ice-cold beers.

For members, there are also exclusive venues such as a buffet restaurant that boasts its very own cigar lounge. Members looking for a light bite can also fi nd sandwiches, pastries and desserts offered round the clock at the International Bar.

THE ART OF FINE LIVINGWith four levels of retail options, The Newport Mall is a shopping haven. Here, those with a taste for the fi ner things in life will fi nd a dazzling line-up of the most sought-after merchandise from the biggest names in fashion and jewellery.

Shop till you drop, then refuel at some of the best restaurants in Manila. But your high-living experience doesn’t end here. The Newport Performing Arts Theatre offers exhilaration of another kind, from gripping musicals and elegant dance performances to witty stage dramas.

So if an all-encompassing experience is what you’re seeking on your next getaway, then look no further than this vibrant ‘city within a city’. When it comes to an unforgettable hospitality experience, ‘Mabuhay (Tagalog for ‘Viva!’)’s the word!

Looking to unwind? Immerse yourself in the

pool’s tranquil waters

Shop till you drop along endless

corridors of stores

IF WALLS COULD TALKManila was also Spain’s colonial capital when it ruled the Philippines, and its Intramuros district

was the exclusive enclave of the Spanish ruling class. Founded in 1571 by Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, this 64-hectare site held within it grand government buildings, majestic churches and convents and cobblestone streets.

At the height of Spanish colonial supremacy, Intramuros was a fi ne demonstration of European power.

Through the years, the walled city

has withstood attacks by Chinese pirates and Dutch forces, and has been taken over by the British, Americans and Japanese at different times. But it was the Battle of Manila at the tail-end of World War 2 1945 that left almost all but the walls of the city destroyed. Of the 28 magnifi cent churches and chapels here, only the Church of San Agustin, built in 1607, survived the shelling directed at Japanese troops who had retreated into the district.

Intramuros was declared a historical monument in 1951, and plans for restoration, reconstruction and urban development were put in place. But it was only in 1979 that the Intramuros Administration was created by then-President Ferdinand Marcos. Today, the original gates of the city have been restored and newer buildings are constructed according to style of Spanish colonial

HISTORICALHIGHLIGHTSWhile Resorts World Manila off ers all the spoils of a modern city, just nearby are captivating sites that tell colourful stories of the past.

The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Intramuros



times. The walled city remains the place where old Spanish-era infl uences are still visible in Manila.

THE EIFFEL CONNECTIONHaven’t got time to fl y all the way to Paris to see the magnifi cence of the Eiffel Tower? Fret not. The brilliance of its designer, the French engineer Gustave Eiffel, can be seen in Manila. Completed in 1891, The Basilica Minore de San Sebastián, also known as San Sebastián Church, is noted as an example of Gothic architecture, and also as the only church in Asia to be completely made out of steel. Historians have found reports of Eiffel’s involvement in the early stages of its design, while architects have confi rmed that the overall structure and details are in Eiffel’s style. Eiffel’s offi cial catalogues also make reference to the design of a church in Manila.

Then there is Puente de Convalecencia, or the Ayala Bridge, that lies over the Pasig river. The original bridge was completed in 1880 but suffered major structural damage and collapsed only 10 years later. A new metal structure was built over it and this was the result of a collaboration between Ayala y Compania (now Ayala Corporation, Philippines oldest and largest conglomerate) and the Eiffel company.

GET AN EDUCATIONOne of the oldest universities in the world can be found in Manila. The University of Santo Tomas was founded by the city’s archbishop in 1611, and the institution celebrated its 400th anniversary just last year. This makes it the longest continuously-operating university in Asia. While it is relatively young in comparison to European institutions like the University of Bologna (founded in 1088) and University of Oxford (which has records dating back to 1096), it is about a century older than most Ivy League institutions in the United States.

你向往综合式度假村的活力，

却又已经玩遍澳门，想换换新

环境？你无需乘长途飞机到拉斯

维加斯：新的度假选择就在不远

处。2010年底隆重开幕的Resorts

World Manila将是你的全新乐园。

作为菲律宾首个24小时营业的综

艺城，Resorts World Manila全天候

热力呈献各种好吃好玩好看的休

闲选择，让你和家人无时无刻都

可以玩得乐翻天！

这个综合式度假村里提供的

是各式各样的住宿选择。Resorts

WorldManila就坐落于Newport

City，紧靠Ninoy Aquino国际机

场�——在抵达马尼拉后，你无

需再经历长途车程便可以在舒适

的旅店房间内伸展腰身，完全

放松。

拥有1,000个房间的 Remington

Hotel提供的是物超所值的舒适

客房以及服务式公寓；Marriott

Hotel Manila 则为休闲以及商务

客人呈献驰名国际的专业服务。

作为其酒店集团在马尼拉的首家

酒店，Marriott Hotel Manila 带来

的不仅是国际水准的星级客房及

套房——你更可以在 Quan Spa

做保养护理，舒缓精神；或在备

有温泉池、桑拿房和蒸气浴房的

Health Club松懈身心。

如果你寻求的是非凡的奢华

享受，那全套方式住宿的Maxims

Tower是你的上选。172个套房当

中包括3个占地500平方米的Royal

Villa，别墅内的设备除了私人泳

池、厨房饭厅外，还包括一间专

属按摩房，让你寸步不离别墅也

能享受最好的按摩护理。但最奢

琳琅满目的购物选择、令人垂涎的美食诱惑、振奋人心

的艺术表演⋯ 这一切尽在菲律宾马尼拉的名胜世界。

侈的还属 600 平方米的总统套

房：由私人花园、泳池、放映

室，至备有 Jacuzzi 浴缸的主人房

浴室，一切都保证你能享受无上

的豪华体验。

在这里，你无需环游世界

便可尝尽天下美味。24小时的

Noodle Works提供的是各式东方口

味的面食，而 Xi Yan呈献的则是

精致的粤式菜肴。Ginzadon 将以

独具一格的日韩 fusion 料理挑逗

你的味蕾，而喜欢多样化选择的

食客则可到 Mecado 国际自助餐

厅大快朵颐。

晚饭前，不如到 Pool Side酒

吧赏夕阳，喝杯开胃酒。饭后你

也可以到24小时开放的Bar 360 小

酌两杯，便同时欣赏现场表演。

不想错过最热衷的国际运动赛

事，度假村内的24小时 sports bar

则是你一边与志同道合的运动发

烧友观看赛事，一边享受冰啤酒

的好去处。

对于购物爱好者来说，有着

4层购物选择的 The Newport Mall

则是天堂。购物中心每一层呈

献的是皆然不同的商品风格，让

你由更多样化的选择。在这里，

对奢华商品情有独钟的你将能找

到一系列由时装及珠宝业内最具

名声的顶级品牌所呈献的热卖商

品。但The Newport Mall 所呈献的

高雅生活选择不仅于此。

The Newport Performing Arts

Theatre 为你带来的是全然不同的

高雅生活享受。独家呈献的舞台

制作、得奖的舞台剧、歌舞剧等

等表演艺术制作，将为你带来最

感动人的精神粮食！

玩转名胜世界

酒

的

套

做

有

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中

V

池池

属属属

能Manila Cathedral in Intramuros. This church was rebuilt six times, most recently after it was destroyed during WWII


14 ROAM

Great Escapes MALDIVES

Enjoy the absolute best of sun, sand, sea and more at this much-celebrated haven for holidaymakers. Text GWEN LIN

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ocated in the middle of the Indian Ocean, scattered like a broken strand of pearls, is a cluster of islands or atolls. The beauty of their lush tropical vegetation, powdery beaches and the surrounding crystalline waters in jewel hues of azure, turquoise and lapis lazuli

blue is beyond compare. The world knows this place as the Maldives. A sultanate since the 12th century, this Muslim country became a British protectorate in 1887. The Maldives gained independence in 1965, and since then has established itself as one of the planet’s premier beachfront getaway spots. Visit it and you’ll quickly see why.

The cluster of islands is really a series of ancient coral reefs that were formed around the sides of prehistoric volcanoes that had sunk into the ocean. The Maldivian archipelago boasts astounding biodiversity. With over 2,000 species of marine life, sleek reef sharks and gliding rays are common sights for divers. If you are lucky, you

A scuba diver gets up close and personal with a shoal of fi sh and a red fan coral in the waters othe Maldivian coast

might even chance upon a gentle whale shark. Diving — or even just snorkelling — in the waters off its coast presents the promise of such colourful and wondrous underwater sights that it is possible to simply do just that for days on end and never once tire of it.

The Maldives also offers a smorgasbord of options when it comes to luxury accommodation. Just about every international resort group has a presence here, and boutique establishments offering Maldivian-style hospitality are aplenty. For the environmentally-conscious, eco-friendly resorts are also growing in numbers. Each occupying entire islands, these boast plush accommodations that provide everything the holidaymaker can ask for, from expansive dining options to designer beachwear for satiating that shopping itch. You will never have to go far for what you desire.

A paradise for divers and those looking for a sunny, picturesque escape, the Maldives invites all its visitors to relax. You will never fi nd a Maldivian holiday with a packed itinerary. But if you should ever wish to do a little bit more, here are the best things to see and do, apart from dive and snorkel.

Hukuru Miskiiy (Old Friday Mosque)Medhuziyaarai Magu, Malé, MaldivesThe oldest mosque in the country, the Hukuru Miskiiy has a history that dates back to 1656. The somewhat minimalist façade of the mosque — which is situated in the capital Malé —may not look promising, but once inside, you will be charmed by the fi ne handiwork of craftsmen of a bygone age. On coral-stone walls are examples of intricately-carved Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns; and the ornate woodcarvings and lacquer work have also made this small mosque famous.

It is also interesting to note that the Hukuru Miskiiy was built over an old temple that faced west to the setting sun, rather than northwest towards Mecca.

Permission from the Ministry of Islamic Affairs is required for non-Muslim visitors, and all visitors should observe the conservative dress code when visiting the mosque.

See the Sights

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The Grand Friday Mosque156 Ameer Ahmed Magu, Malé, MaldivesAnother monument to visit is the Grand Friday Mosque, also known as the Masjid-al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam. The biggest mosque in the Maldives, it accommodates more than 5,000 worshippers at a time and presents a magnifi cent sight with its imposing golden dome and minaret tower. Situated near the main jetty of Malé, it is a popular tourist attraction and throngs of visitors stop by to take in the impressive architectural structure.

Sultan Park | The National Museum | National Art GalleryLily Magu, Machangolhi, Malé, MaldivesThe Sultan Park is defi nitely worth a visit — not solely by virtue of the fact that it houses what remains of the original royal palace, but also because the public garden is home to the Maldives’ National Museum and National Art Gallery.

Opened in 1952, the National Museum is the only surviving palace building. Artefacts such as royal antiquities and coral sculptures from medieval times are displayed over three storeys, but the interior of the historical building itself is an attraction. The National Art Gallery is a space that promotes Maldivian artists and the biennial Maldives Contemporary exhibition, which is held here, is not to be missed.

Shop like a LocalMalé Fish Market | The Local MarketBoduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, MaldivesBeing a nation surrounded by an expanse that is the Indian Ocean, it is no surprise that the Maldives’ most popular export is seafood. And those who wish to catch a glimpse of the fi shing action should defi nitely head to the Malé Fish Market situated along the beach front near the Republic Square.

The excitement starts when the fi shing boats return around mid-afternoon with fresh catch. What ensues is a frenzy of activity, with the hauling of large tails of tuna into the market and negotiations between sellers and buyers making for memorable sights indeed.

A stone’s throw away from the Malé Fish Market is The Local Market where Maldivians from all walks of life congregate. While the majority of the produce consumed in the Maldives is imported, here you will stalls selling local vegetables, fruits, nuts, and processed foods such as breadfruit chips, and homemade sweets and pickles. And if you are looking for something uniquely

MONEYThe currency of the Maldives is the rufi yaa, which is pegged to the US dollar. While the rufi yaa can be used at local markets and eateries, the US

dollar is accepted and preferred all around Maldives.

TIPPINGA service charge of 10% service tax is added to just about everything you pay for in the Maldives,

so tipping is not compulsory. However, a token of appreciation (eg. Rf1 (US$1) per bag to porters and Rf10 per treatment for massage therapists) is always welcome by service sta at hotels and restaurants.

ETIQUETTEThe island resorts may seem extremely westernised, but the Maldivians are generally conservative and Islam is the predominant religion

of the country. While bikinis are perfectly acceptable on the private beaches, modest attire covering the shoulders and thighs is required at restaurants, even within the resorts. And while visiting Malé and its mosques, one should pay attention to observe and respect local customs.

CLIMATEA tropical country, the Maldives enjoys a warm climate throughout the year. While showers are common, December to April is when humidity is

low. March to October are the best times for surfi ng, but diving is good year-round.

So what are you waiting for? For more information, call 6466 8558 or email [email protected] for travel packages or Club Med holidays to Maldives.

The Grand Friday Mosque in Malé

BEFORE YOU GO

1

2

3

4

i h fi hi h



马尔代夫群岛，如断线的珍珠链

散落碧绿的印度洋中。各个热

带小岛给度假者带来的不仅是翠

绿的自然美，更是洁白的沙滩以

及无以伦比的清澈海水－就是

在岸边浅水处漫步，你也能看到

各种鱼只，甚至小鲨鱼在水中的

优雅姿态。

群岛围绕被海水淹没的史前

火山而形成，其实就是古老的

珊瑚礁岛屿。群岛周围的自然

生态特别多样化，单单鱼类便有

超过2,000种。色彩斑斓的珊瑚

鱼、体态如幽浮的蝶鱼、甚至世

界上体积最大的鲨鱼——温顺的

鲸鲨，都可以在马尔代夫水域中

看到。因此，浅水以及浮潜成为

来马尔代夫的度假人士最钟爱的

活动 —— 就是连续一个礼拜浅

水也能天天都有新体验。

马尔代夫呈献的更是多样化

的奢华住宿选择。近乎所有国际

度假村都在此占一席之位，而较

小型的精品酒店也不胜枚举。近

来，提倡环保意识的eco-resort也

进驻马尔代夫，为崇尚大自然的

旅客增添选择。度假村一般都各

自占据一整个小岛，因此设施特

别完善，让旅客可以寸步不离小

岛亦可享受各类休闲活动、美轮

美奂的三餐饮食选择等。

但想暂离度假村，你也可以

到马尔代夫首都马累岛观光。其

中不可错过的景点便包括建立于

1656年的 Hukuru Miskiiy (Old Friday

宝蓝的人间天堂Mosque)。这是马尔代夫最古老的

清真寺，室内处处可见古代工匠

可比天工的雕刻手艺。The Grand

Friday Mosque则是另一个受欢迎

的景点。此回教堂也称Masjid-al-

Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al

Auzam，是马尔代夫规模最大的

回教堂。

对历史以及传统艺术有兴趣的

朋友也可以到位于 Sultan Park 的

National Museum 以及 National Art

Gallery。公园为皇室宫廷遗址，而

其国家博物馆更由皇宫仅存的一

栋3层楼建筑物改造而成。于1952

年开设的博物馆陈列不少皇族遗

物，但历史悠久的王庭建筑物也

是吸引游客前来的因素之一。同

样位于苏丹公园内的National Art

Gallery 则专注展出当地画家的作

品，重点在于提倡当地艺术。

马累街道上有不少贩卖纪念

品的小摊子。但想看看当地人

光顾的集市，那你就必须到码头

附近的Malé Fish Market 和 Local

Market。海鲜是马尔代夫销量最

高的出口货，当地的鱼市场自然

多姿多彩。虽然大不如东京筑地

拍卖市场，但也人潮汹涌。附近

的当地集市则售卖各式土产，如

蔬果、豆类以及各式加工食品。

其中，最具特色的便是当地人用

来配饭，名称rihaakuru的吞拿鱼

浓缩酱料。想购买有特色的食品

当手信带给亲友，不妨到这儿

逛逛。

代夫马尔

Maldivian to take home, the rihaakuru is your answer. A thick paste made from boiling tuna stock over several hours, it is a local speciality which Maldivians enjoy with rice or fl atbread.

Go on an ExcursionThere are more ways to enjoy the beauty of the Maldives and excursions by sea are popular. One of them is a unique chance to go on a submarine ride. A 45-minute dive brings you fi rst to 25 metres under the water, and then to a second stop 40 metres down. This allows non-divers to go deeper underwater than they usually can, and accords all the opportunity to observe sea creatures at different depths — in dry comfort. Whale Submarine expeditions can be arranged through your hotel concierge or visit www.whalesubmarine.com.mv.

And if you are staying in the Maldives for more than a week, you can even go on a seven-day luxury cruise that will take you to the best dive sites, exclusive resorts, untouched Maldivian villages and even uninhabited islands. Visit www.atollexplorer.com for more information.

A gallery of exotic marine life awaits explorers on board the Whale Submarine tours

A fi sherman carries a catch of skipjack tuna from his boat to the fi sh market where they will be sold on the spot in Malé Harbor, Maldives. Skipjack tuna and yellowfi n tuna are the most common species caught in the Maldives

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TAIWANGreat Escapes

逛台北士林夜市、吃

遍路边特色小吃、

到台北101尽情购物

这是许多人对台湾假期的印象。

但有高山岛屿之称的台湾，也拥

有许多特殊地形及奇特的地理景

观，为游人呈献的更是秀丽的国

家公园、森林游乐区、休闲农

场等让你进距离接触大自然的景

点。希望放慢脚步，重温简朴生

活的城市人也能在这里找回简单

的快乐。

自然自在日月潭的优雅浪漫、阿里山那振

奋人心的壮丽日出、绿岛的海底

山好水好人更好。翠绿的自然美景和台湾人的真诚与热情，必定让你不仅满载而归，更能满心欢喜。

温馨之旅

温泉、这些最壮观独特的自然界

美景，尽在台湾。其中，花莲太

鲁阁国家公园——即台湾第 4 座

国家公园——更以令人叹为观止

的悬崖峭壁称为国际著名地理景

观之一。太鲁阁峡谷包括名列台

湾百岳的高山 27 座，除了欣赏

雄伟的峡谷外，游客们亦可在公

园内的长春祠静赏山谷中飞泻而

下的澎湃瀑布；或是到怡人的温

泉松懈身心。丰富的天然资源构

成一个全面性的自然休闲天堂。

如果想泡温泉，你也可以到鹿野

溪游季温泉: 这个养生健康温泉与

红叶温泉同属碳酸温泉，水无味

清澈可饮，泡汤后甚至不需要淋

浴，擦干即可，是最优质的泡汤

泉之一。而南投县信义乡陈有兰

溪畔的东埔帝纶温泉，位于郡大

山及望乡山的山脚下，面向玉山

北峰尾棱。其位置为各方山谷汇

集地，因此气流季风皆为山壁所

挡，四季如春，冬暖夏凉。其温

泉属弱碱性碳酸氢钠泉，水温约

摄氏 45 度，即使第一次泡汤也非

常容易适应。东埔帝纶温泉也附

有露天及室内温泉 SPA 水疗馆，

备有各种设施供游客尽情享受泡

汤乐趣。

但这宝岛呈献的不仅是山区

的秀丽景色，更是独特的海湾生

态奇景。北起特殊海岸地形的东

阿里山奋

人心的壮

丽日出

台湾

HEARTWARMING JOURNEYS

18-21 Great Escapes - Taiwan.indd 1818-21 Great Escapes - Taiwan.indd 18 14/02/2012 4:01 PM14/02/2012 4:01 PM


北角暨宜兰海岸国家风景区、北海岸及

观音山国家风景区；东部海岸国家风景

区及花东纵谷国家风景区的绿色走廊；

再往南则是带热情南国风味的大鹏湾国

家风景区。这个由海洋环绕的岛屿，是

爱好大自然者享受碧海蓝天的美妙人间

仙境。其中，野柳地质公园更是不容错

过。在此，你可在主要地形景观及小地

形景观饱览大自然的鬼斧神工。其中著

名的景点包括及其形象的女王头、仙女

鞋等。但说到海湾美景，自然不忘提澎

湖。位置台湾海峡的澎湖群岛星由90

个岛屿组成，是台湾景色最为怡人的海

岛。在这里，游客可以缓慢的脚步享受

最惬意的假期：不论你选择划独木舟、

垂钓、到东海作珊瑚礁浮潜、到水鸟

保护区赏鸟，或体验澎湖最具特色的水

上活动——到海洋牧场饱尝最新鲜的海

鲜，澎湖总有属于你的活动。

多元化的自然环境，造就台湾多姿

多彩的自然生态。宝岛盛产高质量蔬菜

水果早已是众所皆知的事，但你可否知

道台湾也是各种奇妙生物的家乡？

在八卦山欣赏老鹰翱翔的优雅

英姿、闻名遐迩的蝴蝶王国

当然，饲有两百多只孔

雀及名贵禽鸟的环湖

公路孔雀园也能让

你接近台湾精彩

的动物世界。

想进一步与

小动物们近距

离接触？或是

www.wtstravel.com.sg

多彩的自然生态宝岛盛产高质量蔬

水果早已是众所皆知的事，但你可否

道台湾也是各种奇妙生物的家乡

在八卦山欣赏老鹰翱翔的优

英姿、闻名遐迩的蝴蝶王

当然，饲有两百多只

雀及名贵禽鸟的环

公路孔雀园也能

你接近台湾精

的动物世界

想进一步

小动物们近

离接触？或

优雅浪漫

的日月潭

花莲太鲁

阁国家公

园山谷中

飞泻而下

的瀑布

野柳地质

公园的女

王头

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渴望感受田园生活的简单快乐？那

台湾各处的特色度假村必定能让你

有最非一般的假期体验。在苗栗的

飞牛牧场，你可参观收割牧草、喂

牛、挤牛奶等活动。同时，牧场内

设有蝴蝶生态区、可爱动物区、有机菜园、翠绿森

林等，让你可以更深层体验自然之旅。

人文台湾造就台湾的不仅是奥妙的大自然，更是台湾纯朴热

情的人民以及他们丰富多姿的文化历史。当然，说

文化历史，第一个让人想起的便是驰名国际的国立

故宫博物院。陶瓷、铜器、翡翠、刺绣、字画中国

宫殿式建筑里收藏的70万件国宝，每一件都诉说著

中国五千年文化的菁粹，让人不禁感叹中华文化之

博大,是造访台湾旅客必游之处。

但台湾的文化不限于博物馆。大街上、小后巷

里、古朴的小区内，都满满地是台湾多姿多彩的人

文。在台东花莲的阿美文化村认识山胞从前的生活

型态、与原住民共舞尽情唱快乐的山歌；到高雄县

美浓镇的美浓客家村参观制作传统油纸伞及手工竹

艺术品这些都是唯独在台湾可体验的悠久文化。

华人说：“民以食为天”。台湾当地文化自然也

对吃特别讲究。美浓镇的客家美食如米反条、清冰及

擂茶；淡水老街的阿婆铁蛋、阿给、淡水鱼丸；九

份的草仔米果、蕃薯芋头丸、潮洲鱼丸等各式小吃这

些都造就了旅客们美味的台湾假日体验。

人情台湾但有一种方式，让你不需要穿街走巷，便可感受浓

浓的台湾人情味。这就是民宿假期。民宿假期在台

湾已经是非常成熟的市场，选择琳琅满目。如何从

中挑选最优质的民宿，还需要有独到的眼光和一定

的旅游经验。

但台湾优质民

宿联盟却为不知从

何开始选择的游

客提供最全面的方

便。其联盟成立于

台湾中部的乡下，

理念很简单：通

过“多位用生活说

故事的主人，带您

一趟深刻的旅程”

。联盟的民宿主人

相信旅行是“一种渗入、一种参与、一种视野的扩

大”，而住民宿的精彩就在於体验真是的在地人民

生活，一种当地生活样貌的展现。

遍布台湾的34名民宿主人，所提供的住宿各有各

的特色。位于九分的八番坑及旧道口民宿呈献的是

九分古朴的建筑风格以及粗旷率真的山城性格；桃

源县的福缘山庄则位于台湾最有氧的拉拉山风景特

定区，民宿是颇有瑞士山庄情调的独栋木屋。苗栗

县南庄村山林中的栗田庄则由群山环保，春来可赏

樱花，秋季赏红枫，民宿建筑风格宛如美国小镇庄

园，让人感觉仿佛置身于西方国家。三义一带的卓

也小屋为游人呈献的则是古朴的水乡风情，是山林

中的现代桃花源；而附近的福轩养身馆则结合现周

围自然环境的优异及代设备的方便，为游客提供最

舒适最贴近自然的住宿选择。

各种不同风格情调的住宿，每一个背后都是台湾

当地主人的人生故事。想深入感受台湾，下榻民宿

必定是你最佳选择！



T he beauty of the Sun Moon Lake, the awe-inspiring sunrise at Alishan — these wondrous natural sights and more are found in Taiwan. Add to that the impressive valleys and cliffs

at the Taroko National Park — one of the country’s four national parks which also boasts majestic waterfalls, and hot springs — and it’s quickly apparent that Taiwan is a perfect getaway for the traveller who is looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. If hot springs are your thing, you can also treat yourself to a relaxing session at the Lu Yeh River Travel Season Hot Spring: its acidic spring water is said to be therapeutic, and even suitable for drinking. In Nantou province, the Donpo Tilun Hot Spring is another attraction. Surrounded by mountains, the hot spring spa is well-sheltered from harsh winds and remains pleasantly cool all year round.

But Taiwan is known not just for its mountain scenery. An island surrounded by the ocean, it boasts picturesque coastal regions. At Yehliu Geopark at the the country’s northern tip, hauntingly beautiful rock formations along the coast promise to intrigue, while at the Penghu Islands, one can take in the beauty of coral reefs. Here, you can also take part in a range of water activities such as fi shing, kayaking, or simply enjoy the rustic lifestyle of the islands’ coastal towns.

Indeed, the simple life is what many holidaymakers seek in Taiwan, and perhaps there is no better place to experience this than in one of the many farm stays around the country. The Flying Cow Leisure Farm in

Let the island’s refreshing natural beauty and heart-warming hospitality rejuvenate your soul. Text GWEN LIN

Miaoli is one such example, and here you get fi rst-hand experience of life on a farm. Facilities such as a butterfl y sanctuary, an organic farm and a petting zoo also serve to add fun to your stay.

Apart from farm stays, another form of accommo-dation that is gaining popularity among travellers to Taiwan is the homestay. For those who believe that a holiday should be an interactive experience that allows them to involve, engage and understand the people of the country, homestays are an excellent option. After all, what better way is there to learn about people than to live with them?

For those new to homestays, choosing a suitable place can be challenging as the choices are simply overwhelming. To help tourists pick the best of the best, a group of homestay owners have come together to form the Taiwan Excellent Pension League. With 34 members who believe in delivering hospitality with a lot of personality, the group offers homestay options all across Taiwan.

Be it an outdoor adventure, a quiet village retreat, a holiday by the sea or a luxurious vacation in a mountain lodge that will have you feel like you are in Europe, there is a unique home on the island for just about every kind of holidaymaker.

A HOLIDAY TAIWAN

Taroko National Park

Sunrise at Alishan

Experience a di erent kind of holiday in fascinating Taiwan. For more information on Taiwan Minsu (Farmstay) packages, call 6466 8558 or email [email protected].

PHO

TO: C

OR

BIS & ISTO

CK

PHO

TOS


22 ROAM

Travel Deals

CAMBODIA (Land Tour Only)

3D2N Siem Reap F&E FROM S$78

3D2N Phnom Penh F&E FROM S$88

3D2N Phnom Penh Discovery FROM S$238

4D3N Angkor Wat Discovery FROM S$228

5D4N Cambodia Experience FROM S$338

VIETNAM (Land Tour Only)

3D2N Ho Chi Minh F&E FROM S$108

4D3N Saigon Discovery FROM S$238

3D2N Hanoi F&E FROM S$108

4D3N Hanoi Heritage FROM S$438

6D5N Mesmerizing Hanoi Sapa FROM S$738

KOREAInclude Korea Air / GV10

7D6N Korea Fun Snow Ski FROM S$1,108

8D7N Korea Ski Sensation FROM S$1,228

8D6N Korea Magical Winter + Jeju FROM S$1,298

JAPANANA Packages (Include All Nippon Airways / GV20)

7D Honshu Experience FROM S$2,288

7D Kyushu FROM S$2,288

7D Hiroshima FROM S$2,388

7D Hokkaido Delights FROM S$2,288

TAIWAN (Land Tour Only)

Experience Taiwan Minsu Stay FROM S$99

4D3N Taiwan Shopping & Hot Spring FROM S$198

6D5N Taiwan Shangri-La Leisure Farm/Jiaushi Hotspring

FROM S$378

7D6N Taiwan Super Value Tour FROM S$358

7D6N Hualien/Taitung Hotspring/Hi-Speed Rail

FROM S$428

NEPAL (Land Tour Only)

6D Scenic Nepal FROM S$598

8D Scenic Nepal FROM S$788

10D Wonders Of Nepal FROM S$988

AUSTRALIA (Land Tour Only)

4D3N Adelaide F&E FROM S$448

4D3N Sydney F&E FROM S$398

4D3N Melbourne F&E FROM S$358

4D3N Perth F&E FROM S$368

3D2N Brisbane F&E FROM S$338

PHILIPPINES (GV2 With Philippines Airlines Ticket)

4D3N Manila F&E FROM S$338

4D3N Cebu F&E FROM S$448

4D3N Boracay F&E FROM S$458

INDIA (Land Tour Only)

5D4N Golden Triangle Tour FROM S$698

7D6N India Delights - Shilla/Kulla/Manali FROM S$998

8D7N India Winter Experience + Srinagar FROM S$1,098

9D8N Incredible India FROM S$1,198

MALAYSIA (Land Tour Only)

3D2N Penang F&E FROM S$138

3D2N Langkawi F&E FROM S$128

3D2N Kuching F&E FROM S$128

3D2N Kota Kinabalu F&E FROM S$118

4D3N Ipoh & Pangkor Island F&E By Firefl y FROM S$250

THAILAND (Land Tour Only)

3D2N Bangkok F&E (3rd Night Free) FROM S$128

4D/5D Bangkok Pattaya FROM S$218

5D Chiangmai /Chiangrai /Bangkok By Thai Airways

FROM S$468

3D2N Phuket F&E (3Rd Night Free) FROM S$118

3D2N Unseen Beauty Of Krabi Tour (3rd Night Free)

FROM S$158

3D2N Koh Samui (3rd Night Free) By Silk Air FROM S$459

INDONESIA (Land Tour Only)

3D2N Relaxing Bali Tour (3rd Night Free) FROM S$148

3D2N WOW Bali Villas Lifestyle FROM S$298

4D3N Bali Share The Joy By Garuda Or Qatar Airways

FROM S$388

4D3N Jakarta Bandung Tour By Garuda Indonesia

FROM S$448

3D2N Lombok F&E (3rd Night Free) FROM S$218

MALDIVES (Land Tour Only)

5D3N Angsana Ihuru Maldives FROM S$1,398

5D3N Adaaran Prestige Vadoo Maldives FROM S$1,418

5D3N Adaaran Club Rannalhi FROM S$838

5D3N Sheraton Maldives Fullmoon Resort FROM S$858

CHINA TOUR (Included air tickt, excluded taxes )

3/4D Pearl River Delta Gourmet Tour FROM S$268

5D Cosmopolitan Shanghai & Beyond + 2N HKG FROM S$398

5/7/8/10D Fujian FROM S$398

6D Hainan High Speed Train Experience FROM S$498

7D Guangdong FROM S$598

5/6D Beijing + 2N HKG FROM S$458

8/9D Hunan-Zhangjiajie + Yangtze River Cruise FROM S$848

8D Shangdong Spring Flower (or Picking Fruit in Summer )

FROM S$1,038

HONG KONG (Included air ticket, excluded taxes )

3D2N Hong Kong Free & Easy FROM S$338

4D3N Hong Kong Disneyland Stay FROM S$528

4D3N Hong Kong Macau Overnight FROM S$468

5D4N Hong Kong Disneyland + Ocean Park Family Fun

FROM S$628

5D4N Hong Kong / Shenzhen Twin Cities FROM S$408

WTS Travel TOUR PACKAGES

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MACAU (Land Tour Only)

3D2N Macau Experience FROM S$195

Batam1D Batam City Tour FROM S$30

1D Batam Barelang Tour FROM S$39

2D Harmoni One FROM S$66

Crown Vista FROM S$62

2D Golden View FROM S$62

2D Planet Holiday FROM S$75

2D Turi Beach FROM S$87

2D Harris Resort Waterfront/Batam Centre FROM S$75

2D Batam View FROM S$72

Bintan2D Bintan Lagoon FROM S$113

2D Nirwana FROM S$125

2D Mayang Sari FROM S$128

Malaysia3D Must go Genting Promotion FROM S$98

3D Furama KL Special Promotion FROM S$158

3D Royale Bintang KL FROM S$170

3D Berjaya Times Square KL FROM S$208

3D Sunway Lagoon KL FROM S$248

2D Malacca Free & Easy FROM S$98

2D Malacca with City Tour FROM S$128

2D Port Dickson FROM S$160

2D Cameron Highlands FROM S$168

2D Beraja Hills Bukti Tinggi FROM S$148

2D Desaru Lotus Resort FROM S$98

Note: All prices and details are subject to change with or without prior notice.

WTS Travel OutletsHOTEL GRAND CENTRALPhone: +65- 6735 8558Fax: +65- 6735 7677Address: #02-03 Hotel Grand Central (Orchard)

Singapore 229617Email: [email protected] Hours: 7am-7pm (Mon-Fri),7am-2pm (Sat),7am-11am (Sun)

TAMPINES 1Phone: +65- 6587 8558Fax: +65- 6782 8974Address: 10, Tampines Central 1 #04-16,

Tampines 1 Singapore 529536Email: [email protected] Hours: 10:30am-10pm (Daily)

ANG MO KIOPhone: +65- 6452 2262Fax: +65- 6452 3303Address: No. 861,Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Teck

Ghee Community Club, #01-02 Singapore 569734

Email: [email protected] Hours: 10am-7pm (Mon-Sat)Closed on Sun & Public Holidays BUKIT TIMAH PLAZAPhone: +65- 6467 8558Fax: +65- 6465 7677Address: 1 Jalan Anak Bukit, #B1-59,

Bukit Timah Plaza, Singapore 588996Email: [email protected] Hours : 10am-8pm (Daily)

BUKIT PANJANG PLAZAPhone: +65- 6764 8558Fax: +65- 6764 7557Address: 1 Jelebu Road,#04-06, Bukit Panjang

Plaza, Singapore 677743Email: [email protected] Hours : 10am-9:30pm (Daily)

CHOA CHU KANG LOT 1Phone: +65- 6346 8558Fax: +65- 6892-8151Address: 21 Choa Chu Kang Ave 4 #04-14,

Lot One Singapore 689812Email: [email protected] Hours: 10am-9:30pm (Daily) ITE COLLEGE WEST (CCK)Phone: +65- 6512 4555Fax: +65- 6760 7377Address: ITE-WTS Travel Resource Centre

ITE College West, 1 Choa Chu Kang Grove #2202 Singapore 688236

Email: [email protected] Hours: 10am-7pm (Mon-Sat)Closed on Sun & Public Holidays

CAUSEWAY POINTCurrently undergoing an exciting makeover and is due to resume operations in August 2012.

SUPERSTAR VIRGO STRAITS OF MALACCA & SOUTH CHINA SEAFares valid 1 April to 29 September 2012

1-NIGHT HIGH SEAS CRUISE (FRI/SAT)Low Season From S$210 per person (Twin sharing)

Mid Season From S$245 per person (Twin Sharing)

2-Night Malacca/Kuala Lumpur or Redang Cruise (WED)Low Season From S$460 per person (Twin Sharing)

Mid Season From S$530 per person (Twin Sharing)

2-Night Redang Cruise (FRI)Low Season From S$680 per person (Twin Sharing )

Mid Season From S$750 per person ( Twin Sharing )

3-Night Penang/Phuket or Phuket/Langkawi CruiseLow Season From S$790 per person (Twin Sharing )

Mid Season From S$895 per person (Twin Sharing )

TERMS & CONDITIONS• All Fares are in Singapore dollars and do not include

passenger handling charge and optional land tours.• The fares are applicable to Singaporeans, foreigners holding

employment passes, permanent residents (PR) or work permit holder status in Singapore only (minimum 1 holder per cabin).

• Single fare passengers pay 150% of the twin-sharing fare.• Infants (above 6 months and below 24 months pay 25%

of twin-sharing fare (applicable only upon 2 full paying passengers).

• Other terms and conditions apply.

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24 ROAM

Being in business for three decades is quite an achievement, so the Powen Group decided to commemorate the event a little differently — on a cruise ship! In September last year, the

building and M&E (mechanical & electrical) engineering service provider held their 30th Anniversary Celebration & Appreciation Award 2011 onboard the SuperStar Virgo.

With the help of WTS Travel, the Powen Group held an afternoon of games and awards for management and staff, together with their families, in the ship’s Galaxy of the Stars lounge. The company’s managing director Mr Chia Han Pheow gave a rousing opening speech, followed by executive director Ms Anna Seng, who kicked off the festivities.

A slide presentation detailed the Powen Group’s 30 years of growth, before the occasion was marked with a cake-cutting and a champagne toast ceremony. Keeping to the upbeat tone, managers came onstage to announce the promotions of 12 staff from their respective departments. To encourage the staff to mingle and get to know each other, games to break the ice were played for the next half an hour.

The Appreciation Awards were next, recognising staff who had stuck with the company for the last fi ve, 10 and 15 years. The spotlight was then

MICE/Event Highlight

With WTS Travel’s help, the Powen Group’s 30th cruise ship birthday bash was a party that no one would soon forget.

OceanMOTION

The SuperStar Virgo, which set the stage for someunforgettable revelry

If you want to throw a shindig that your employers and colleagues won’t soon forget, look no further than WTS Travel’s MICE department. They’re a total solution provider, no matter what the group or corporate travel requirement.

Among services on o er are:• Organising corporate team building

programmes• Creating customised themed events locally or

internationally• Holding professional conferences and

meetings, as well as product launches• Giving Pre and Post-incentive and conference

travel programmes• Managing cruise ship movement and ground

handling services• Providing destination management services

like arrivals, departures, transfers and sightseeing tours

So what are you waiting for? For more information, call 6314 8558 or email [email protected] now!

PARTY PLANNER

thrown on Ms Ng Siok Hwee and Mr Wan Suen Foon, who received Special Awards from Mr Chia personally for their 30 years of service.

They weren’t the only ones who walked away with something. 50 lucky staff were picked randomly in a computerised lucky draw and won prizes ranging from Apple iPad 2s to Internet TVs, with a Mitsubishi Starmax System 3 Aircon as the top prize. In a separate bonus draw, three travel packages to Malaysia by WTS Travel were also thrown into the prize pool, which added a few more smiles to the group.

The Powen Group family were then invited onto the dance fl oor to let their hair down and party up, while thumping beats blasted from the sound system. However, as the day wound down, the group came together for a photo to signal the end of the day. However, the party was far from over, as they were led to the SuperStarVirgo’s restaurant Bella Vista and served sumptuous Western and Asian cuisine. It was a thankful respite, especially to those who had built up an appetite from dancing earlier.

ON THE

The Powen Group’s employees were all smiles by the endof the day

The Powen Group’s employees

24 MICE.indd 2424 MICE.indd 24 13/02/2012 5:32 PM13/02/2012 5:32 PM


Centrally located in the heart of Silom — the main business, banking, shopping and night-life district in Bangkok — Furama Silom continues to be a favourite of business and leisure travellers. This elegant hotel — which is a member of the award-winning Furama hospitality group — is

conveniently located in the very heart of the bustling Thai capital. A mere 10-minute walk from MRT Silom Station, Saladeng Sky Train Station and Chong Nonsi Sky Train Station, all of Bangkok’s most exciting stretches are within easy reach. And to top it off, it’s just a 30-minute ride to Suvarnabhumi Airport, making it perfect for business travellers hoping to cut down their commute.

Convenience is balanced in equal measure by comfort as well. The hotel features 251 expansive guestrooms in a wide selection ranging from Superior Rooms to Executive Suite Rooms, and complete with a cozy décor that blends contemporary Thai style with the most modern accents. There’s a fi tness center, a sauna room, two function rooms with well-equipped facilities and a large outdoor rooftop swimming pool as well. From the latter, guests can also enjoy panoramic views of the City of Angels while indulging in a tropical drink on the breezy pool deck.

Rama@Silom, located on the 2nd Floor, meanwhile offers a diverse selection of cuisine ranging from Traditional Thai to inventive International fare. Decorated with modern and trendy touches, Rama Restaurant is a romantic haven where guests can enjoy the warmth of Thai hospitality. For all these reasons and more, make Furama Silom your choice on your next visit to the Land of Smiles.

A PREMIER

FOR THE

DiscerningAdvertorial

Off ering convenience and comfort in equal measure, the Furama Silom is your best bet as a home away from home when you’re in Bangkok.

Business Hotel

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26 Advertorial JPO.indd 2626 Advertorial JPO.indd 26 13/02/2012 5:34 PM13/02/2012 5:34 PM

28 ROAM

Taste Buds

TIPPLING CLUB8D Dempsey RoadTel: 6475 2217Known for painter-mixologist Matthew Bax’s cheeky cocktails and the rebellious cuisine of chef-owner Ryan Clift, the four year-old Tippling Club offers an unconventional experience.

The restaurant is set in a greenhouse-like structure, with fl oor-to-ceiling glass walls that highlight the verdant foliage that surrounds it; and the dining counter surrounding the open kitchen and bar is the focal point of the room. Here, instead of a showcase of ingredients, an expansive collection of bottles hangs low from a grille over the work space. Their mixes, like the Kopi-O — a sexy, inventive rendition of the everyday drink of local black coffee in a bag — bring a smile to the face with their clever presentation and well-balanced fl avours.

Equally innovative is the cuisine. Degustation menus are the order of the day here. But while a 13-course spread — complete with cocktail pairings for every course — may tempt, a more consistent dining experience comes in the form of the compact seven-course menu. The dishes executed using molecular techniques tease with unexpected textures and tastes. Highly commendable are Clift’s many tributes to local food and classic Asian dishes. True to authentic fl avours yet completely original in form, they showcase the chef’s vivid imagination.

JOEL ROBUCHON RESTAURANTHotel Michael Level 1– 101/103 & 104/105 Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa GatewayTel: 6577 8888The title of “The world’s most decorated Michelin-star chef” is a huge, heavy hat that comes with the pressure of high expectations on whoever wears it. Joel Robuchon makes it all look easy, however. Already with restaurants in 11 food capitals such as Paris, Tokyo and Hong Kong doing extremely well in the face of fi erce competition, he then ventured into the Singaporean dining scene, ready to set new standards.

Of his two restaurants at Resorts World Sentosa, Joel Robuchon Restaurant is the more formal space. Designed to resemble a grand family dining hall dressed in Art Déco style, the place is at once elegant and comfortable. A meal here is a holistic experience in all aspects of hospitality. From the well thought-out setting and the discreet and intuitive service to the selection of the fi nest ingredients, the fl awless execution and immaculate presentation, every little detail comes together to form a sublime dining experience.

Joël Robuchon Restaurant will amaze guests with its repertoire of inventive French classics. Executive chef Tomonori Danzaki helms the Singaporean outpost and impresses with an inspired menu of reinterpreted French classics. The piece de resistance is naturally, the 16-course degustation (sampling)

menu, but for those who prefer to have a lighter meal, an a la carte menu is also available. Also not to be missed is a selection from their extensive collection of more than 1,200 wine labels.

StarBites

In a city where Michelin stars and budding talents congregate, fi ne dining comes in myriad styles. ROAM checks out the best on off er. Text GWEN LIN

Sup on avant garde creations like this crispy fried cabbage and sprout vegetables with Argan oil at Joël Robuchon Restaurant.

28-29 Taste Buds.indd 2828-29 Taste Buds.indd 28 14/02/2012 4:00 PM14/02/2012 4:00 PM


IGGY’SThe Hilton Hotel 581 Orchard Road Level 3 Tel: 6732 2234Consistently ranked as Singapore’s top restaurant by the likes of the San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants list and The Miele Guide, this eight year-old establishment has become a institution in its own right. Named after its proprietor Ignatius Chan — one of the co-founders of fi ne dining chain Les Amis — the charm of Iggy’s is very much like that of the restaurateur himself: all grounded good-naturedness but with an innate sophistication.

The degustation menus are an ever-changing showcase of Chan’s taste inspirations gathered from around the world. These ideas are distilled with the help of his team of international culinary talents and transformed into unique dishes. The food here is also a refl ection of Chan’s unique palate. While he has a deep understanding of fi ne French fare, the born-and-bred Singaporean also has a fondness for Japanese cuisine and comforting, home-style Chinese fl avours. This unique sensibility gives the food at Iggy’s an inimitable quality.

RESTAURANT ANDRE41 Bukit Pasoh RoadTel: 6534 8880When he fi rst arrived to helm Jaan par Ande at Swissotel the Stamford in 2008, few had any idea what Andre Chiang would bring to the local dining scene. Since then, the Taiwan-born chef has proven his worth not just to local diners but an international audience as

SKY ON 5710 Bayfront AvenueTel: 6688 8868One of the founding members of Singapore pioneer French fi ne dining restaurant Les Amis, and also the brains behind French restaurants in Taipei, Hong Kong and Shanghai, chef Justin Quek chooses to take the local route for Sky on 57 at Marina Bay Sands. The food at this restaurant opened in 2010 is called modern “Franco Asian Cuisine”, and the offerings range from Nordic crab vermicelli, Maine lobster Hokkien mee to Wagyu beef cheek rendang. Also in the mix are more European dishes such as “Foie Gras Three Ways” for those who

Voted as the second best restaurant

in Asia, Restaurant

Andre’s exclusive space

is a picture of tranquility

At Sky on 57, diners are treated to 360˚views of downtown Singapore while tucking

into modern Asian dishes like fried Maine lobster Hokkien Noodles (right)

seek something out of the fusion repertoire. Whichever the style, the emphasis is always on the use of prime, exquisite ingredients.

These delicacies with a distinctive local fl avour are served in fi tting setting. Located on the 57th fl oor of Marina Bay Sands Tower One, the 12,000 sq ft space offers not just a taste of Quek’s cuisine, but also a panoramic view of the Singapore cityscape. If you haven’t got time for dinner, visit their oyster bar on the outdoor terrace for some aperitifs and nibbles while enjoying the sunset view.

well. Blessed with a Midas touch, he put Jaan par Andre in the limelight of the international food scene within a year. More recently, Restaurant Andre was voted as the second best restaurant in Asia in The Miele Guide 2011/2012, just one year after the restaurant’s opening.

Though it spans three storeys of a 1920s-era shophouse, Restaurant Andre is an exclusive space with only 30 seats. The chef’s table is on the fi rst level, and an intimate main dining

room on the second, while the third fl oor is devoted to the wine cellar which

houses an exclusive range of biodynamic wines (made

by applying old-fashioned principles of viticulture, taking

into account the circumstances of the natural environment).

Some items here, such as snacks of chicken skin and porcini and mushroom wafer, may be reminiscent of what Chiang served at Jaan, but the cuisine on offer here has certainly evolved. Each exquisitely-plated course is an exploration of a particular element of Chiang’s cooking philosophy, and a changing eight-course degustation menu is the best way to experience his cuisine.

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On WTS Travel’s 6D Luxury Jiangnan Gourmet Tour which took place in November last year, a group of lucky travellers

indulged in spectacular sights and tastes. After touching down in Shanghai, MediaCorp artiste Ben Yeo kicked things off at Suzhou’s Tianping Mountain’s Maple Festival. Apart from opera and musical performances, the real “stars” were the 158 maple trees shrouded in rich gold and red leaves.

Ben then led the group on a buying blitz at shopping mall Harmony Time Square, where they were bathed by bright colourful animations from its Sky Screen. At 350m long and 16m wide, it’s the world’s largest. Just as inviting was dinner, where group members were treated to more of Ben’s wit and banter as well as Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs, a sought-after delicacy known for its sweet, velvety-textured fl esh .

The following day started at the Lingering Garden, a 23,310sq m park that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 1,400 year-old Nanxun Old Town was next. After a sumptuous braised lamb in brown sauce lunch, they headed to Hangzhou’s Viewing Fish at Flower Harbour

Park at West Lake. Dinner, which included items such as juicy Beggar Chicken, also had Ben entertaining the group as he gave an animated explanation on this classic Chinese dish’s origins. A West Lake cruise on the third day offered views of the lush green hills on its banks. For lunch, a nourishing duck soup offered group members warm respite from the chilly weather before they headed to Yiwu Retails Shopping Mall for souvenirs.

A visit to Hengdian World Studios the next day might have left some tour members thinking they’d gone back in time. It is Asia’s largest fi lm studio, with full-scale models of Ming and Qing Dynasty palaces

as well as recreations of 19th century Guangzhou and Hong Kong. It’s

also been the backdrop for movies like Hero and The Forbidden Kingdom. Ben tapped into his on-screen experience to explain the

Tour Talk

Led by MediaCorp artiste Ben Yeo, WTS Travel’s 6D Luxury Jiangnan Gourmet Tour showcased the best of China’s Southern region.

SensesA FEAST FOR THE

Ben Yeo cheering for the

winner of the cooking contest

organised during the tour

Digging into some of the delectable treats served up during the trip

fi lm-making process to the travellers.Day Five saw everyone back in Shanghai

‘mingling’ with stars like actor Jackie Chan and basketballer Yao Ming. No, they weren’t at a gala event, but the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum which housed wax versions of these celebrities. The Bund, with classical European-style buildings lining the Huangpu River, was next. This Shanghai icon also segues into the famous Nanjing Road stretch, where our bargain hunters shopped till they dropped.

The fi nal leg saw our China explorers stop by Chenghuang Miao street, a stretch popular for its knick-knacks and souvenirs, before visiting Shanghai Xintiandi, a dining, retail and entertainment centre in historic shophouses. Saving the best for last, signature Shanghai soup dumplings stuffed with crab roe were served for lunch. With their thirst for travel satiated, the group members then embarked on the return journey to Singapore, complete with a store of memories of an exciting trip.

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The chilly weather did little to dampen the tour group’s high spirits

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Travel Information

SINGAPORE EMBASSIES AND CONSULATESVancouver, Canada: +1-604-6695115California, USA: +1-310-3737622London, UK: +44-20-72358315Paris, France: +33-1-45003361Berlin, Germany: +49-30-2263430Rome, Italy: +39-06-48759510

Wellington, New Zealand: +64-4-4700850Manila, Philippines: +63-2-7512345Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: +03-21616277Jakarta, Indonesia: +62-21-29950400Phnom Penh, Cambodia: +855-23-221875Beijing, China: +86-10-6532 1115Hong Kong, China: +852-2527 2212Hanoi, Vietnam: + 84-4-38489168

MALAYSIAN EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES Vancouver, Canada: +1-604-6859550California, USA: +1-213-8921238London, UK: +44-20-72358033Paris, France: +33-1-45531185Berlin, Germany: +49-30-8857490Rome, Italy: +39-06-8415764

Wellington, New Zealand: +64-4-3852439Manila, Philippines: +63-2-8640761 Jakarta, Indonesia: +62-21-5224947Phnom Penh, Cambodia: +855-23-216 176Beijing, China: +86-10-65322531Guangzhou, China: +86-20-38770763Shanghai, China: +86-21-60900360Hong Kong, China: +852-28210800

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: +84-8-38225174Bangkok, Thailand: +66-2-2862111Seoul, South Korea: +82-2-7742464Nepal (contact the Singapore embassy in New Dehli, India): +91-11-46000915 Tokyo, Japan: +81-3-3586 9111Canberra, Australia: +61-2-62712000

Hanoi, Vietnam: +84-4-37343849Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: +84-8-3829 9023Bangkok, Thailand: +66-2-6296800Seoul, South Korea: +82-2-7959203Kathmandu, Nepal: +977-1-5010004Tokyo, Japan: +81-3-34763840Canberra, Australia: +61-2-61200300

Source: www.weather.com Temperature in degrees Celsius (°C)

WEATHER2012MARCH - AUGUST

SouSouSouSourcercercerce: w: w: wwwwwwwwww weweweweaaaththehethett err cr cccccoomommmmmmmmmmm TTeTeTemTemmT pepeperperrratuatuatut rerereeee iiin ddeegegeggggreereerees Cs Cs CCeelselssiuiuuuuuusssi s ((°(°°°C)C)))

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug

Highest Lowest Highest Lowest Highest Lowest Highest Lowest Highest Lowest Highest Lowest

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Bali, Indonesia 31 26 31 26 30 26 29 25 28 24 28 24

Jakarta, Indonesia 30 24 31 24 31 24 31 24 31 23 31 23

Bangkok, Thailand 33 26 34 27 33 27 33 27 32 26 32 26

Phuket, Thailand 33 24 33 25 31 25 31 26 31 25 30 26

Hanoi, Vietnam 22 18 27 22 31 25 32 27 32 27 32 27

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam 33 24 34 26 33 26 32 25 32 25 31 25

Manila, Philippines 32 23 34 24 34 25 32 25 31 24 31 24

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 33 23 32 24 32 24 32 23 32 23 32 23

Singapore 31 24 32 24 31 24 31 24 31 24 31 24

AUSTRALIA

Melbourne 24 14 21 12 17 9 14 7 13 6 15 7

Perth 29 16 25 13 21 10 18 9 17 8 18 8

Sydney 25 18 23 15 20 12 17 9 17 8 18 9

EAST ASIA

Beijing, China 11 -1 19 7 26 13 30 18 31 21 29 20

Shanghai, China 12 5 18 11 23 16 27 20 31 24 31 24

Hong Kong, China 27 11 29 15 32 20 33 23 33 23 33 24

Taipei, Taiwan 21 14 24 18 27 22 30 24 32 26 32 26

Osaka, Japan 13 4 19 10 24 14 27 19 31 23 33 24

Tokyo, Japan 12 4 18 10 23 14 25 18 28 22 31 24

Seoul, South Korea 9 2 17 8 22 13 26 18 28 22 29 22

EUROPE

Amsterdam, Netherlands 9 1 13 3 17 7 20 10 22 12 22 12

Berlin, Germany 8 1 13 4 18 8 22 11 23 13 23 12

London, United Kingdom 11 4 13 5 17 8 20 11 23 14 23 13

Paris, France 11 3 14 6 18 9 21 12 24 14 24 14

Rome, Italy 16 4 19 7 23 11 27 14 31 17 31 17

NORTH AMERICA

Los Angeles, USA 21 11 23 15 23 14 26 16 28 18 29 18

New York, USA 10 2 16 7 22 12 26 18 29 21 28 20

Toronto, Canada 3 -6 11 1 18 6 23 11 27 14 25 13

Vancouver, Canada 9 2 12 4 16 8 19 11 22 12 22 13

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ShowdownSmartphones today are must-have lifestyle products but they also make for pretty useful travel companions as well — with options for shooting, gaming and working on the go.

SMARTPHONE

APPLE IPHONE 4SJust when you thought it couldn’t get any better, the latest iPhone — the 4S — is packed with incredible new features including an all-new camera with advanced optics and full HD resolution video recording. It also features Siri, an intelligent assistant that helps you set a meeting, make a call, write an email or even look for the nearest Japanese restaurant around you — all you have to do is talk into the microphone. The iPhone 4S is also more responsive when you’re launching those travel apps or browsing the web, so you’ll never feel like a lost, clueless tourist. $948, www.apple.com/sg

HTC RHYMESpecifi cally designed with sleek curves so it fi ts just right in your hand, the HTC Rhyme comes with a bundle of accessories including a sports armband, tangle-free headphones, Bluetooth Headset and Bluetooth Car Speaker. Aiming to be the phone that’s integral to your daily routine, it allows you to silence an incoming call by just fl ipping the phone. Reading on the road or on the train as you’re crossing boundaries has never been so enriching when you can simply tap a word or phrase and look it up on Wikipedia, Google, YouTube or the dictionary. $699, www.htc.com/sea

NOKIA LUMIA 800Available on our shores since 10 December 2011, this touchscreen device is the result of an eight-month collaboration with Microsoft. A head-turner, this stylish smartphone features integrated communication threads and Internet Explorer 9 and is ideal for immortalising those precious travel moments as you bask in the beauty of the wonders of the world. Enjoy instant-share camera, video playback, 16GB of internal user memory and 25GB of free SkyDrive storage for your images and music. $775, www.nokia.com/sg-en

GALAXY NEXUS Launched by Samsung and Google in February 2012, the GALAXY Nexus is the world’s fi rst smartphone running on Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich — the latest release of the Android platform. It features a new People app, that allows you to keep in touch with friends, family, and coworkers, see their photos in high-resolution, and check their latest status updates from Google+ and other social networks. Ice Cream Sandwich also introduces Face Unlock which uses facial recognition to unlock the phone.$948, www.samsung.com/sg

PRADA PHONE BY LG 3.0The third handset to come from the Prada-LG collaboration, this is a combination of style and function. It features a full glossy touchscreen to the front and Prada’s signature Saffi ano leather pattern to the back, all fi nished in classic black. Running on Android’s Gingerbread OS, with a future scheduled upgrade to Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich, this smartphone boasts high-speed performance, and dual-band Wi-Fi for high-speed surfi ng on the go.$1088, www.lg.com/sg

SONY ERICSSON XPERIA ARC SThe Xperia arc S is a winner of the “European Camera Phone 2011-2012” awarded by the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA). With its 8.1 megapixel camera with HD video capability that enhances still images and videos even in low-light conditions, this smartphone makes the perfect tool to document even your cave exploration adventures. Comes in pure white, midnight blue and sakura pink. $788, www.sonyericsson.com

*Prices quoted are retail prices without contract and may vary depending on the data plans o ered by the various local telecommunication companies.

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Text FAIROZA MANSOR

Stylish Traveller

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Hot DatesWhat’s On

A gamut of exciting events for all the family is what you can expect in Singapore and Malaysia in the coming months. Here’s our pick of the must-dos.

SINGAPORE2012 Fashion Steps Out @ Orchard23 Mar − 6 May Orchard Roadwww.orchardroad.org

This six-week fashion extravaganza will showcase the latest Spring/Summer collections from around the globe. Get up close with the models as they strut their stuff on the longest catwalk stage in Singapore and expect fabulous deals to complete your shopping experience.

Singapore Arts Festival 201218 May – 2 June Esplanade Park www.singaporeartsfest.com

The Singapore Arts Festival is an international showcase of ideas and the arts with a distinctive Asian fl avour. The Festival will present more than 15 different ticketed productions in your favourite dance, theatre, music and cross-media genres. The Festival Village will be back for its second edition to host over 20 free performances and activities for arts lovers and fi rst-time arts goers alike.

Offi cial opening of Bay South at Gardens by the BayJune (TBC)18 Marina Gardens Drivewww.gardensbythebay.org.sg

Gardens by the Bay is Singapore’s iconic waterfront gardens project in Marina Bay. Come this June, visitors can look forward to enjoying the Flower Dome, a 1.2-hectare cooled conservatory which replicates the cool-dry climate of the Mediterranean and semi-arid subtropical regions. It features an uncommon range of fl owers and plants such as baobabs, olive trees and date palms. The Cloud Forest, replicating the cool-moist climate of the planet’s Tropical Montane region, will also be opened.

SECRET & B.A.P 1st Singapore Fan Meeting23 MarchIMM Level 3 Garden Plazawww.launchentertainment.net

Catch cute and sexy South Korean girl band, SECRET, whose popular song ‘Madonna’ won the Main Award at the 20th Seoul Music Awards in 2011. They will team up with their brother group, B.A.P (or Best, Absolute, Perfect) for this Korean Pop-packed music party. This follows the launch of B.A.P’s debut album in January. Singapore will be the fi rst stop in their Asia tour.

Indulge in the nation’s biggest culinary event of the year. With more than 60 participating food stalls and over 100 F&B outlets, you will be spoilt for choice with an array of mouth-watering local and international delights. Also, get cooking tips from the live cooking demonstrations by professional chefs.

Singapore Food Festival13 -22 July

Various locationswww.singaporefoodfestival.com.sg

Text FAIROZA MANSOR

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Take a tour around scenic Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage City

The red-bearded bee-eater is one of the many species of birds visitors can spot at Fraser’s HillMALAYSIA

4th Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta15 – 18 March Monumen Alaf Baru, Precinct 2, Putrajayawww.myballoonfi esta.com

Get carried away and be in awe by the colourful display of hot air balloons as they fl oat in the skies above Putrajaya. The event has drawn 23 balloonists from around the world including Belgium, USA, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Malaysia and Japan — all participating in this exhibition of hot air balloons and other aviation sports.

Borneo Jazz 201210 – 12 MayMiri, Sarawakwww.jazzborneo.com

This annual event sees jazz groups from around the world converging at the Miri Resort City. Approximately 7,000 spectators and participants — comprised of locals, expatriates and visitors — are expected at this exciting musical galore.

UNESCO World Heritage City Celebration7 July Bandar Hilir, Melakawww.mbmb.gov.my

On 7 July 2008, Melaka was declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO for its heritage buildings, cultural enclaves and places of worship. Participate in the exciting anniversary celebrations to commemorate the historic occasion.

Colours of 1Malaysia26 MayDataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpurwww.motour.gov.my

Malaysia’s annual cultural extravaganza, organised by the country’s Ministry of Tourism, is back to dazzle again. Enjoy a grand spectacle of traditional performances, colourful parades and exhibitions that showcase the country’s arts and crafts. The festivities will conclude with a fi reworks display.

Fraser’s Hill International Bird Race23 – 24 June Fraser’s Hill, Raub, Pahangwww.pkbf.org.my

This bird race is an excellent opportunity for locals and tourists to view a variety of migratory and montane birds. View species from as far as Northern Siberia and the islands north of Japan, at Fraser’s Hill — often referred to as a fi rst-class bird watching destination in this region as it is home to an impressive 247 species.

ding

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Viewpoints

Le ers selected for publica on may be edited for space and clarity.

Share an interes ng travel anecdote, holiday p or photo with us. Email us at adver [email protected] with the following details: Full name, age, address, contact number and iden ty card number.

HAD A GREAT EXPERIENCE WITH WTS TRAVEL? If so, write to us! If your note is selected as the Star Le er, you stand to win a mystery gi .

www.facebook.com/WTStravel twitter.com/WTSTravel

LettersYOUR

Got a story or photo to share? Send them in — the best letter wins a mystery gift!

GOING THE EXTRA MILESeason’s greetings from Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore! By way of introduction, I am Manfred Weber, the hotel’s new General Manager. Through our guest feedback channel, we are pleased to say that good comments have been received with regards to your employee, Mr Quah Law Pow.

On the evening of 16 December 2011, three guests waiting at Newton MRT Station had diffi culty obtaining public transport to come to the hotel for their company dinner. They saw the staff shuttle bus and approached Mr Quah to give them a ride to the hotel, which he obliged. It was most considerate of Mr Quah to go the extra mile in extending the courtesy to the guests. By taking the right action, he has impressed upon the guests the spirit of Shangri-La hospitality. Please convey my appreciation to Mr Quah. I wish your team a Happy New Year.

Manfred Weber, General Manager Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore

SHE MADE MY DAY!I am writing in to commend your staff member, Colleen Pung, on her excellent service during my recent visit to WTS Travel agency at CCK Lot 1.

I don’t normally write letters on an unsolicited basis. However I was so impressed by Colleen’s wonderful service I received that I feel compelled to thank her for going out of her way to make customers feel respected and welcomed.

No matter how busy the offi ce was, Colleen never failed to provide service with a smile. She was also prompt in her responses and even went beyond the call of duty to make special birthday requests to the resort on my behalf. I’d like to sincerely congratulate WTS Travel for having such a dedicated staff member. I believe that Colleen’s extraordinary commitment to service excellence as well as her remarkable passion has motivated her to exceed customers’expectations. I will certainly recommend my friends to patronise WTS Travel.

Melissa Woo

SIX-STAR SERVICEI am pleased to write in praise of the excellent service that I received at the hands of your staff member Mandy Mah (Bukit Panjang branch). She provided me with such a great experience that I am compelled to let you know of her good work. Ms Mah’s passion to serve and interact with customers is unlike what I had previously encountered at other travel agencies. She responded to my queries politely and graciously followed up on the details of my Chinese visa application.

Ms Mah is a warm and capable professional who takes great pride in her work. If you ask me, the current public sentiment on the lack of excellent service staff in Singapore is misplaced — they simply have not been travelling with WTS Travel!

James Wong

THE PERSONAL TOUCHThrough this letter, I wish to express my appreciation to your staff Ms Diane Yak for her good service in coordinating the Radin Mas Grassroots Organisations’ recent workplan and bonding retreat to Desaru on 17 and 18 December 2011. My grassroots leaders and I enjoyed the arrangements for the retreat very much, and I attribute this to Miss Yak’s attention to detail and readiness to respond to participants’ needs.

Sam Tan Chin Siong Adviser to Radin Mas Grassroots Organisations

StarStarLetter

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