Indulge in the Uniquely Singapore experience

I like how its Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong once described Singapore - "We may be small, but we have high hopes and big dreams and so long as we are a little red dot in the middle of Southeast Asia, let people know that we are a people who kill keep on trying and never say die. And with this spirit, the future is ours to make."



The first time that I stepped into Singapore was during 9 years old, which I could only remember that I touched a starfish at the Underwater World in Sentosa Island. In year 2006, I spent a short 3 days in Singapore, visiting relatives. The very next day, I spent a day in Sentosa Island at the Imbiah Lookout, sipping my wine cooler, and the next moment I was shouting all the way down the slope at the Luge Ride. Time was so short, and I was wishing that I could visit Singapore again!




Then last year on the 29-Dec, I was sent to Singapore on a business trip! But...you know, business trip is always very rush, and I could only spend my after work hours to enjoy Singapore. I tried the famous Tiffany Café & Restaurant's buffet, wrote a review on it, and surprisingly almost everyday the post attracted readers from google search!



After dinner, lucky enough I still had some time to walk around Chinatown.



I spent my new year countdown at Clarke Quay. The place is fantastic and I love it so much~



Overlooking Marina Bay on new year's day. I wanna go to Singapore again!! There's so much more that I haven't explore.



Why should I deserve Nuffnang's invite to Singapore? Obviously because I like the place sooo much and am already promoting it in my travelogs. Everyday I see people searching for the keywords "Singapore travel", "Singapore tour", and even "Tiffany cafe", and they came to my blog. ^.^ So if I were to be invited to the event, definitely there'll be much more that I will blog about! It means I'm contributing in promoting its tourism to the world. Then I should ask why don't I deserve an exclusive invite to Singapore... =P



As a traveler, we always have some expectations on where we are about to visit. Even the most carefree holidays will still give some expectations on the place, or at least what it's all about. I've been to Singapore a few times, but I still have so many places yet to be explored. Singapore is a blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture. No doubt, this little red dot in the middle of Southeast Asia, per described by its current Prime Minister, had shone its way to everywhere in the world. However, a dream 1-day itinerary is still a big challenge, because you only have max 24 hours a day, if you minus out your bedtime (say 4 hours), then you need to make full use of the 20 hours left to do what you'd like most.

So it's still all about planning, planning, and planning! Of the $$ budget and time budget. Talking about visiting Singapore as a traveler, one would need to put 3 major things into consideration: places of interest, transport and spending. This time due to the word "dream", I would then temporarily put spending budget aside. To me, Singapore is famous for its rich arts and culture, food, and lifestyle, beauty & Wellness, nightlife, and of course shopping~ If I were given a day in Singapore, I would plan it this way ---

Starting out my journey in the morning, I would first go to Chinatown by MRT. Oh right, before even I start my journey, I would first purchase the Singapore Tourist Pass at Changi Airport when I land in Singapore. The best way to see Singapore in the lowest cost - Singapore Tourist Pass at S$8/day only! It's always convenient to move around bus MRT and bus.



Ok now back to the itinerary, I will start my precious 1-day in Singapore from Chinatown (Chinatown MRT Station, NE4), enjoying a scrumptious dim sum breakfast in one of the dim sum shops along Temple Street, Smith Street and Trengganu Street. --photo from triciamorente.files.wordpress.com



After breakfast, it's time to visit the multi-religious heritage in the streets of Chinatown. Places that I would like to visit - Thian Hock Keng Temple, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple and the Jamae Chulia Mosque. While sightseeing and taking photos of the colorful and lively streets, I can also bargain for souvenirs, and not to be missed, buying some Chinese pork jerky (bak kua) for my family.

Chinatown. --photo from virtourist.com



Sri Mariamman Temple. --photo from jochenhertweck.com



After visiting Chinatown, I will continue my journey to The Merlion Park by taking a ride to Raffles Place (Raffles Place MRT Station, NS26/EW14). While walking along the Singapore River, I want to take a tour in the historical Civic District of Singapore. Buildings that I could glance - Asian Civilisation Museum, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, The Arts House at the Old Parliament, the Old Supreme Court, and The Fullerton Hotel. After snapping the picture of the Merlion, I will continue walking along the Esplanade Bridge to The Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay.

Raffles Place. --photo from theodora.com



After hours of walking and sightseeing, it's almost time for lunch. I could heard my stomach growling, hunger for the famous Laksa and Chicken Rice!! So Katong here I come! From The Esplanade, I could take a 10 minute walk through City Link Mall to City Hall MRT Station (NS25/EW13), and ride all the way to Tampines MRT Station (EW2). Then change to a bus ride (bus number 10, 12, 14, 32 or 40) to East Coast Road.

Tried Laksa in Singapore, but not this famous Katong Laksa. I always hope that one day I will have the time to go to Katong for a bowl of LAKSA!! --photo from nibbleofthoughs.blogspot.com



Katong District -- an area of rich blend of the Peranakan Culture (Chinese and Malay cultures), and my favourite Laksa! I think I'll almost burst my stomach savouring the local delights, and I could go to Katong Shopping Mall and visit my uncle, meanwhile savouring his famous chicken rice there too~ I've read many posts recommending his chicken rice as one of the best, but until now I still haven't eat at his stall yet. I know Katong area is really a food heaven. Slurrrppp~

My uncle's Delicious Chicken Rice, recommended in many food blogs. --photo from eatbma.blogspot.com



After lunch, I can do a little shopping at Bugis Street (Bugis MRT Station, EW12) before go all the way to Sentosa Island (Harbour Front MRT Station, NE1; then take the Sentosa Express or cable car). Time for a little prayer at the temple too, for a safe flight back home. --photo from goseasia.about.com



--photo from flickr.com/photos/sai_tun



I'll be in Sentosa just in time to see the lovely pink dolphins at the Dolphin Lagoon. Then I will rent a bike and cycle around the island. Seen people did that but until now I still haven't got a chance.--photo from viator.com



--photo from ktelontour.blogspot.com



Waving goodbye to the largest Merlion, I then continue my journey to Orchard (Orchard MRT Station, NS22) for shopping and dinner. I will find a restaurant to savour another famous Singapore delicacy -- the Chilli Crab. Strolling along the streets shopping like another hotel heiress, I could have the chance to see an event roadshow, or if I'm luckier, meet an artist! --photo from streetdirectory.com



--photo from julianaheng.com



Last but not least, departing from Orchard Road to Clarke Quay (Clarke Quay MRT Station, NE5) for a chill out and party all night long! I could again spend my night sitting beside the riverbank and watch the lights changing color.





I would pump up my adrenaline with a reverse bungee jump at the G-Max, then party at the themed bars and clubs along the Singapore River. Last business trip I went for countdown at Clarke Quay and was amazed by the bungee jump! However the queue was too long so I missed trying it.




At Clarke Quay I could even taste the world famous Singapore Sling at True Heritage Brew Singapore Sling Boutique (#01-05, Clarke Quay) and get a small bottle of the famous Singapore Sling as a unique souvenir for my friends. --photo from travel-singapore-with-me.com



Singapore is a 24-hour metropolitan! If I never get drunk after partying, I could still opt for midnight shopping at Mustafa Centre. --photo from g4station.com

Indulge in the Uniquely Singapore experience!

You see, I planned it the way that a travel planner could plan, just nice for a maximum 24-hour indulgence the Merlion's hometown. So give me the tickets to Singapore~ (^.^) I'll make sure I write a great one about the event.

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Tower Bridge, London

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- I am very very tired these days... Work from morning till night. I need a short vacation to rejuvenate. Luckily my coursemate gathering is only one day ahead, thus going to Genting and KL for a short break...and it's time to top up my little wardrobe too~ Heheh..

London Bridge is falling down, falling down, falling down,
London Bridge is falling down, my fair lady.

If you think London Bridge is the huge bridge that you watched in "The Mummy Returns" then you've got it wrong. It's name is Tower Bridge. Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames. It is very close to the Tower of London, which gives it its name. The photo above was from Wikipedia, such a nice view of Tower Bridge at sunset. I went there in the early morning when the weather was still a bit misty due to rain.



After having our quick breakfast at Pret A Manger, we headed to Tower Bridge. It took about a 10-minutes walk from London Bridge Underground Station.



The old British buildings behind me.



I was attracted by this huge red wall of More London Place building. I stopped by and took a picture, and by the next moment I was being scolded by the security guard who rushed all the way out from the lobby! Why was I always get scolded for taking pictures...duh.



Tower Bridge is right after this narrow pathway.



Ta~da~ Tower Bridge!!! It was windy and still drizzle a little.



I was really in London then. It's a signature of London. Strong wind~~ Look at my hair.



A moment later the wind stopped blowing.



And then it blew again~~



I couldn't get a nice pose due to the strong wind...arrgghhh. Advice -- tie your hair when you visit Tower Bridge.

The bridge is 800 feet (244 m) in length with two towers each 213 feet (65 m) high, built on piers. The central span of 200 feet (61 m) between the towers is split into two equal bascules or leaves, which can be raised to an angle of 83 degrees to allow river traffic to pass. The bascules, weighing over 1,000 tons each, are counterbalanced to minimize the force required and allow raising in five minutes.

Overlooking the River Thames is Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its real name is Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, but only more commonly known as the Tower of London. It's located at the north bank of the River Thames.



And this, HMS Belfast (C35) is one of the two ships forming the final sub-class of the Royal Navy's Town-class cruisers, the other being HMS Edinburgh. She was initially expected to be disposed of as scrap but after a private trust campaign went on, she was preserved as a museum ship in the Pool of London, and opened to the public in 1971, and being maintained as a branch of the Imperial War Museum since 1978.



London's sky is most of the time full of clouds. Hardly see blue sky during early Spring.



That's why most of the photos I took in London have very dull background tone.



Initially I wanted to submit this photo to SilverKris and maybe I still stand a chance to win something if they publish it in the next volume, but Noel said NO because people might misunderstood that we're dating each other...



Moments later tourists started barging in.



The QIC team group photo before we left for Big Ben.

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A Guide to Korean Women’s Beauty Secrets Part.2: Jjimjilbang

Adapted from KTO (Korea Tourism Org)
A Unique Korean Beauty Experience

A visit to the jjimjilbang should feature on the itinerary of every visitor to Korea. Simply put, it is a Korean-style large-scale sauna or spa. The jjimjilbang contains various kinds of different rooms, which are heated to 40-80 degrees Celsius. These sauna rooms are all made from different materials, such as yellow earth, minerals, precious stones, and salt. As you sweat, toxins and wastes from the body are released, and good energy and minerals from these rooms are absorbed. Jjimjilbangs generally contain public baths as well. Here visitors can soak in hot tubs that often contain various natural ingredients such as green tea or ginseng. Consequently, those who care about the beauty of their skin flock to the jimjilbang. However, this is not just a place for beauty. With a variety of entertainment facilities, jjimjilbangs are favorite destinations for families to relax and spend time together. They are open 24 hours a day and are thus used as overnight lodging as well. Still a little confused as to what a jjimjilbang is? Then, read on for more information.

How to use a Jjimjilbang

① Check in at the front desk: Pay up front and get a towel, a T-shirt and shorts, and a locker key.
② Change clothes: Pay up front and get a towel, a T-shirt and shorts, and a locker key.
③ Enjoy the facilities: A jjimjilbang consists of a main hall for relaxation and a number of sauna rooms surrounding the hall. You can sweat for about 5 minutes in a sauna room and come out to rest in the main hall before trying out a different kind of sauna room. Usually, a restaurant, snack bar, nail salon, spa, and a fitness facility are also available at the Jjimjilbang for an added fee.
④ Check-out: If you take advantage of any extra options in addition to the basic facilities, you can pay for them when checking out.

★★Experience!! Jjimjilbang>> Dragon Hill Spa
Make your way along the tree-lined Winter Sonata walkway and enter this fabulous complex. Located across from Yongsan KTX station, the Dragon Hill Spa is an expansive jjimjilbang complex that’s spread over 7 floors and includes a rooftop terrace. Various facilities are available, including a traditional charcoal sauna and many different themed sauna rooms, open-air baths, a swimming pool, and a fitness facility. Best of all, the entrance fee of 10,000 won covers all facilities and there are no additional charges. Basic admission is for up to 12 hours, but when you see all the different facilities available in this jjimjilbang, you might feel that a day is just not enough.

Have the Ultimate Jjimjilbang Experience at the Dragon Hill Spa!
Traditional Charcoal Oven
Negatively charged ions and far infrared rays released from the charcoal help enhance the blood circulation and metabolism.



Pine Tree Firewood Sweat Room
This room helps the body release toxins.



Crystal Light Salt Room
Lie on the floor covered with salt that has been purified by hours of heating. The salt is believed to have natural healing effects.



Hinoki Forest Bath Room
This room supplies clean oxygen for relaxation. As you rest in this room made from cypress (Hinoki) wood, you will feel as if you are in a forest. Make sure to stop here to refresh yourself after sweating in a high-temperature room.



Yellow Earth Pyramid Room
In addition to the far infrared rays released from the yellow earth, the pyramid-shaped room is said to exude vitality enhancing energy.



Natural Jade Energy Room
Far infrared rays released from jade are particularly good for patients and those people who want to take care of their skin. The temperature is above 50 degrees Celcius, so take care not to overdo it.



Ice Room
The chilly temperature helps blood vessels and skin to regain their normal size and elasticity after spending time in the hot sauna rooms.



Each room has a thermometer, so you can find the right sauna room for your body constitution.



Since it appeared in the TV drama My Lovely Samsoon, the sheep ears towel hat has become an instant hit, and is now universally worn at jjimjilbangs.



Shaved ice patbingsu or cold beer are refreshing after sweating in the sauna rooms. Just don't get too carried away and undo all the beauty benefits you got from the sauna rooms.



The bracelet key is your virtual cash for using those facilities that require an extra fee. You can settle the payment when checking out.



☞ Location: Subway Line 1, Yongsan station / Exit Yongsan station plaza and Dragon Hill spa is on the right.
☞ Tel: 02-792-0001
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: www.dragonhillspa.co.kr
☞ Prices: Daytime (05:00-20:00) 10,000 won, Night-time (20:00-05:00) 12,000 won (for adults) (Price does not include auxiliary services such as dining facilities, massages, etc)
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: N Seoul Tower / National Museum of Korea


Sealala Spa & Water Park

Located in Yeongdeungpo-gu in Seoul, Sealala Spa is a large spa and water park facility in the heart of a bustling commercial district. It has an impressive interior reminiscent of Santorini, Greece. Sealala has both high-temperature and low-temperature sauna rooms, offering more choices for visitors unfamiliar with jjimjilbangs. It uses the highest quality charcoal, salt, yellow earth, and aromatic plants that are beneficial for your health. You’ll feel like you are basking in nature. You can also have fun on Sealala Spa’s water slides and wave pools.

☞ Location: Subway Line 2, Mullae station, Exit 4 → Walk 300 meters to the east → LOOX building, 2nd Basement level [See a Map]
☞ Tel: 02-2628-9000
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: www.sealala.com
☞ Price: Weekdays: Daytime (05:00-21:00) 8,000 won, night-time (21:00-05:00) 10,000 won (adults)
Weekends: Daytime (05:00-19:00) 8,000 won, night-time (19:00-05:00) 10,000 won (adults)
(Price based on high season 07/18-08/23, rental of jjimjilbang clothes 1,000 won)

Beauty tips when visiting a Jjimjilbang


① Whenever necessary, use a cold, wet towel to soothe and moisturize the skin.
② When thirsty, drink water instead of other beverages.
③ Scrubbing salt on the body helps eliminate toxins faster, resulting in smooth skin.
④ Facial pores will open after sweating, so try a mask pack to rapidly soothe and moisturize.

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