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How to Prevent and Manage Influenza Abroad

Barbie Hsu, the Taiwanese actress best known for her role in Meteor Garden, has passed away at 48 due to pneumonia caused by influenza complications. Her sister, Dee Hsu, confirmed the news through her agent on Monday, February 3.

Reports indicate that Barbie contracted influenza-induced pneumonia while on a family trip to Japan, highlighting the serious risks associated with the flu, especially while traveling.

UNDERSTANDING INFLUENZA

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. The virus can also linger on surfaces, making it easy to contract through touch.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

There are three main types of influenza viruses:

Influenza A & B – Responsible for seasonal outbreaks and epidemics. Influenza A tends to cause more severe cases and complications.
Influenza C – Less common and typically results in milder symptoms.

While anyone can get the flu, certain groups are at higher risk of complications, including:

a. Young children under five years old
b. Elderly individuals
c. People with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Flu symptoms usually develop suddenly and can include:

High fever
Sore throat, runny or stuffy nose
Persistent cough
Muscle aches and fatigue
Headache and chills
Loss of appetite
Image Credits: unsplash.com
In severe cases, influenza can lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, or even meningitis.

PREVENTION

Before Your Trip
a. Get a flu vaccine. It is the most effective way to reduce your risk.
b. Strengthen your immune system with a balanced diet, vitamins, and sufficient rest.
c. Purchase travel insurance that covers hospital expenses in case of illness abroad.

While Traveling
a. Stay hydrated to support your immune system.
b. Prioritize rest and sleep to allow your body to recover.
c. Carry fever reducers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
d. Use steam therapy, such as sitting in a steamy bathroom or drinking warm tea, to relieve congestion.
e. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
f. Wear a mask in crowded areas like airports and public transportation.

Flu Treatment
If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu, Xofluza, and Relenza can help shorten the duration of the illness and prevent complications. In serious cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

IN A NUTSHELL

Traveling should be an enjoyable experience, not disrupted by illness. Taking preventive measures and knowing how to manage flu symptoms can help ensure a safe and healthy trip.

Take care of your health and travel with confidence.

Sources: 1 ,2,3, & 4

5 top-rated luxury hotels in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia to book a romantic stay in 2025

Planning a romantic stay with bae this year and looking for some recommendations?

These luxury hotels we’ve picked have won the hearts of travelers who’ve been there before you so you can trust their reviews.

Here’s a quick list of top-rated luxury hotels in Kuta, Bali, Indonesia for your consideration 🌴

Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (2.7K+ reviews)

First up, just footsteps from Bali’s Kuta Beach and a short shuttle from the airport, we have Aloft Bali Kuta, a traveler favorite that checks every box on the Balinese getaway list.

Rooms range from doubles to spacious two-bedroom suites.

Cool off after a day of sun-soaked adventures in the pools or break a sweat in the 24/7 fitness center.

With over 2.7K glowing reviews, this is a top-rated resort on our list.

Waterbom Bali’s waterpark slides are just down the road, while Ngurah Rai International Airport is a mere 3.5 km away.

Amnaya Resort Kuta

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (17.6K reviews)

Location, location, location!

This resort has a prime address just 1.9 km from the airport and walking distance to Waterbom Bali and Kuta Beach.

Take your pick from their poolside rooms or other modern suite accommodations.

On-site restaurants dish up local flavors and international fare, while the spa awaits to pamper you.

Bring the family—one child under 5 stays FREE using existing bedding.

Alaya Dedaun Kuta

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (1.1K reviews)

Your piece of paradise awaits at Alaya Dedaun Kuta, just steps from Kuta’s famed beachfront.

It features 5-star luxury villas with private pools and open-air dining, while honeymoon suites offer romantic escapes.

There are also multi-bedroom villas accommodating large groups.

It’s within walking distance to Kuta Beach, under 4 km from Seminyak Beach and Waterbom Bali water park, and just 3.8 km from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).

Mamaka by Ovolo

Agoda Rating: 9 (7.4K reviews)

Skip the long airport commutes and park yourself right near Kuta Beach at Mamaka by Ovolo.

This resort puts you a stone’s throw from Bali’s famous surf and sand (Kuta Beach).

On-site indoor and outdoor pools are available too.

This property offers brightly lit rooms and suites with select units having terraces for sipping cocktails under swaying palm trees.

When you’ve had your fill of Vitamin D, book a massage or spa treatment to unwind.

Furry friends can even join in on your Bali magic with Mamaka’s pet-friendly policy.

The Anvaya Beach Resort

Agoda Rating: 9 (6.2K+ reviews)

Last but not least, we have this beachside sanctuary, a short drive from the airport (1.6 km), and near stretches of sand like Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua Beaches.

Surrender to relaxation with the spa’s treatments or melt into a state of pleasure at the sauna.

Families traveling with little ones can breathe easy knowing kids under 2 stay for FREE.

Whether you opt for a deluxe room, grand suite, or family-friendly premier, The Anvaya’s range of accommodations lets you vacation your way.

35+ newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s convenience store chain to try before January 2025 ends

Didn’t it just feel like we’ve just swung into 2025?

Now that the first month of the new year is almost over, it’s time for a round-up of some newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s famous convenience store chain, CU.

Continuing from last month’s craze, we’ve got more launches from the contestants of Culinary Class Wars—Master of School Meals and Napoli Matfia 🧑‍🍳

So stay on this page, keep scrolling, and best of luck finding them in stores!

#1a: 405 Bakehouse’s Mac & Cheese Steamed Bagel (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#1b: 405 Bakehouse’s Ham Cheese Steamed Bagel (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#2a: One-Day Nuts (Blue) (990 KRW; approx. 0.93 SGD)

#2b: One-Day Nuts (Pink) (990 KRW; approx. 0.93 SGD)

#3a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Healthy Chicken Soup Ramen (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.64 SGD)

#3b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Healthy Chicken Gomtang Ramen (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.64 SGD)

#4a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Hanwoo Yukgaejang Rice Soup (6,900 KRW; approx. 6.51 SGD)

#4b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Malatang (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.62 SGD)

#5a: Halim’s Chicken Breast (Prawn) (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.25 SGD)

#5b: Halim’s Chicken Breast (Squid) (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.25 SGD)

#6a: Yonsei’s Red Velvet Whipped Cream Bread (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.11 SGD)

#6b: Yonsei’s Red Velvet Roll Cake (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#6c: Yonsei’s Red Velvet Cream Rice Cake (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.89 SGD)

#7a: Teenieping Strawberry Cake (1,900 KRW; approx. 1.79 SGD)

#7b: Fresh Cream Strawberry Sandwich (3,800 KRW; approx. 3.59 SGD)

#8a: Wow Spicy Fish Cake Kimbap (2,200 KRW; approx. 2.08 SGD)

#8b: Wow Spicy Fish Cake Triangle Kimbap (990 KRW; approx. 0.93 SGD)

#8c: Wow A-Trip-Down-Memory-Lane Dosirak (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.68 SGD)

#9a: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Buldak Flavored Seasoned Dried Squid (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.36 SGD)

#9b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Caramel Flavored Stir-fried Anchovies (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.36 SGD)

#10a: Low Sugar Chestnut Flavored Soya Milk (1,400 KRW; approx. 1.32 SGD)

#10b: Low Sugar Injeolmi Soya Milk (1,400 KRW; approx. 1.32 SGD)

#10c: Pepper Popcorn (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.70 SGD)

#11a: Traditional Tonkatsu Set (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.57 SGD)

#11b: Traditional Spicy Chicken Set (5,900 KRW; approx. 5.57 SGD)

#12a: Teokbokki Flavored Tuna Kimbap (3,200 KRW; approx. 3.02 SGD)

#12b: Teokbokki Flavored Tuna Mayo Triangle Kimbap (1,200 KRW; approx. 1.13 SGD)

#12c: Mozzarella Cheese Beef Burger (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.25 SGD)

#13a: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Aglio Olio (5,000 KRW; 4.72 SGD)

#13b: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Truffle Mushroom Noodles (5,500 KRW; 5.19 SGD)

#14a: Culinary Class Wars’ Napoli Matfia’s Pizza Steamed Bagel (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.68 SGD)

#14b: Culinary Class Wars’ Master of School Meals’ Ham Army Stew (4,900 KRW; approx. 4.62 SGD)

#15a: Galbi Dumplings (2,900 KRW; approx. 2.74 SGD)

#15b: 405 Bakehouse’s Choco Marshmallow Cookie (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.89 SGD)

#16a: Halim’s Today’s Protein Bar (Caramel) (2,900 KRW; 2,74 SGD)

#16b: Halim’s Today’s Protein Bar (Pistachio) (2,900 KRW; 2,74 SGD)

#16c: Ready-To-Eat Sweet Potatoes (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.89 SGD)

All image credits to CU.

Price conversion from KRW to SGD is accurate at the time of writing.

Budget-Friendly Travel Hacks for Honeymooners

When my husband and I got married, one thing was clear: we wanted our honeymoon to be dreamy yet practical. Picture this: soft waves, powdery beaches, and vibrant marine life. We found our paradise in Siargao, Philippines, a destination that ticked all our boxes without burning a hole in our wallets.

Do the same with these tips:

START PLANNING EARLY

Last-minute trips sound exciting, but when it comes to honeymoons, planning ahead is the real deal. Give yourself ample time to research and book everything. With an early start, you’ll score better deals on flights and accommodations. Set up flight alerts and compare prices to lock in those savings.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET

You’ve just said “I do,” but now it’s time to say “I don’t” to overspending. After a big wedding, it’s smart to be mindful of your finances. Discuss your budget as a couple and stick to it. There are tons of budget-friendly options, from discounted luxury cruises to hotel promos. Who says you can’t live large while saving big?

CHOOSE A DESTINATION TOGETHER

Compromise is the name of the game. If you’re dreaming of a bustling city while your partner craves serene beaches, find a spot that offers the best of both worlds. Consider destinations like Cebu or Japan for their mix of adventure, history, and vibrant local culture.

PLAN THE ITINERARY AS A TEAM

Couples who plan together tend to avoid unnecessary arguments. Share the load and collaborate on your itinerary. Mark must-visit spots, calculate travel times, and map out routes to avoid wasting precious vacation hours. Apps like Google Maps or travel forums are your best friends here.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

PACK LIGHT, PACK SMART

Packing for your honeymoon doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle. Coordinate your outfits with your activities and prioritize versatile pieces. For a beach getaway, a mix of denim shorts, breezy dresses, and comfy sandals will do the trick. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.

READY YOUR TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

Avoid the last-minute scramble by organizing all your travel documents in one place. Keep printed copies of tickets, hotel reservations, and IDs, even if you have digital backups. A little organization goes a long way in making your trip stress-free.

BRING A FIRST-AID KIT

Don’t let minor mishaps ruin your romantic getaway. Pack basic medicines for headaches, allergies, and stomach troubles. If you’re traveling internationally, check if vaccinations are needed for your destination. Staying healthy is key to making the most of your honeymoon.

IN A NUTSHELL

Your honeymoon doesn’t have to be extravagant to be unforgettable. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and a spirit of compromise, you can create a magical experience that’s easy on your wallet.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Go ahead and plan that dream trip—you both earned it!

Source: 1

4 award-winning hotels in Kyoto to book a stay in before hotel taxes increase in 2026

Caught sight of the news that Kyoto will be raising hotel taxes in 2026?

To be exact, for room rates between 20,000 to 50,000 JPY (approx. 174 SGD to 435 SGD) per night, visitors will have to pay 1,000 JPY (approx. 8 SGD) per person per night.

As for accommodations over 100,000 JPY (approx. 871 SGD) per night, the tax will be at 10,000 JPY (approx. 87 SGD).

If approval is granted by the city assembly, the rise in taxes will be a nightmare come true for Japan lovers.

So perhaps 2025 is the year you should visit Kyoto before traveling gets a little too expensive in 2026…

Here’s a list of award-winning hotels in Kyoto to book a stay in.

Book early to secure your spots!

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Rating: 9.1 (9.2K+ reviews)

First up, we have this hotel tucked in the heart of Kyoto.

Hotel Forza Shijo Kawaramachi plants you just 300 m from Nishiki Market.

This centrally located 9-floor hotel is the perfect spot for exploring the city’s sights on foot.

It’s also an easy 38.4 km from Osaka International Airport.

Twin rooms and family rooms for 3 are available for booking and the hotel features a 24-hour front desk (great for assistance at any time).

Kickstart your day with an energizing breakfast for an additional fee of 2800 JPY (approx. 25 SGD) if you’d like.

Sakura Terrace The Gallery

Rating: 9 (17.6K+ reviews)

For those seeking an adults-only getaway, Sakura Terrace The Gallery offers just the respite you need.

This hotel places you within a short stroll of Kujo subway station and Kyoto Station.

Selected rooms feature private balconies.

After a day of discovery, relax at the hotel’s rejuvenating sauna or burn some “sushi calories” at the fitness center.

It’s an approx. 45-minute ride to Osaka airport and proximity to nearby gems like Sanjusangendo Temple.

Hotel The M’s Kyoto

Rating: 9 (15.3K+ reviews)

Hotel The M’s Kyoto is less than a 10-minute stroll from Kujo Subway Station, which puts you a quick ride from all of Kyoto’s must-sees, including the Kyoto Station Building and Sanjusangendo Temple—both under 1.5 km away.

They have rooms for duos to quartets.

Having opened its doors in 2021, this fairly new hotel is here so you can ditch the cramped hostels.

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi

Rating: 9 (9.5K reviews)

Solo Kyoto-trotting or hanging with your travel crew?

However you explore Kyoto, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi has your back with attractions right at your fingertips—stroll 3 km to browse stalls at Nishiki Market or marvel at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Osaka International Airport is just a 45-minute drive away.

Comes with a range of single and connecting rooms that cater to all types of travelers.

Fuel up at the hotel’s breakfast buffet for just 1400 JPY (approx. 13 SGD).

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