IATA says we might be able to travel leisurely after May or June 2021

SIA stewardess with a passenger

Are you hungry to travel? I sure am.

We’ve kept to several COVID-19 safety measures for about a year now, and it’s also officially been a year since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus outbreak a pandemic.

Singapore, alongside other countries, has fought hard to keep the numbers down, and we’re thankful that vaccine supplies are sufficient in our little red dot at the moment.

Furthermore, there’s good news from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently.

Return of personal travel

According to Alexandre de Juniac, the IATA director, in an interview with The Straits Times, leisure travel will return from mid-2021 as borders reopen to people looking to hop on a plane to a destination.

“We will likely start seeing a change in the air travel landscape after May or June this year,” Mr de Juniac said. “We at IATA are already working with states to design and plan protocols and road maps for the reopening of borders.”

Though the volume of travel by the end of 2021 will not be on par with pre-pandemic levels (which makes perfect sense), isn’t it fantastic news for peeps who are looking forward to meeting their friends and families living abroad?

IATA’s Travel Pass
iata-digital-travel-pass

Image Credits: NFCW

But we won’t be able to make our dreams come true without key protocols in place.

One of them is the IATA Travel Pass. It is a mobile health verification app that electronically stores information on passengers’ health and virus tests or vaccines status. This is essential as we take steps to revive travel.

In fact, Singapore Airlines will be the first carrier to test out the full deployment of the IATA Travel Pass. Passengers heading to London with a phone operating on iOS later this month will have the chance to partake in the trial.

Travellers will be able to use the app to:

  • Submit flight information
  • Book a COVID-19 test at participating clinics in Singapore
  • View the test results directly and allow check-in staff at Changi Airport to verify their status accordingly

“Our partnership with Singapore Airlines for the first full deployment of the IATA Travel Pass will help get the world flying again,” said Mr Nick Careen from the industry body.

Leisure vs Business

Some of you might be wondering if business travel will take priority over leisure ones. But Mr de Juniac foresees that personal travel will come back more quickly than business travel.

He shares that leisure journeys will definitely bounce back, but business travel will take up to 18 months to recover.

Since more companies have hopped onto digitalisation technologies over the pandemic period to adapt to changing times, there is indeed a lesser need for in-person work meetings.

What’s next?

For those eyeing travel-related news, look out for the International Civil Aviation Organisation (Icao)’s latest protocols on health and safety guidelines. It should be out by April 2021.

Also, based on Mr de Juniac’s prediction of Asia-Pacific emerging as the most robust region for global air traffic recovery, that’s enough to bring a smile to the faces of travel-deprived folks.

Watch the news report here:

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Add these 6 lovely bookstores to your travel-later plans

Lovely bookstores worldwide cover image

As Stephen King rightly quotes, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.”

Books are famous for having a unique spell that draws us in and keeps us hooked. Book lovers everywhere can fall in love with a story from the first page and spend days captivated by the world they’ve been drawn into and the stories the authors are creating.

Bookstores themselves have also become portals to our access, creating a location where you can disappear into the racks with your favourite book and enjoy that little safe space you’ve made.

If that resonates with you, you must check out these stunning bookstores worldwide for some ideas on your next getaway when travel resumes.

#1: Seoul Book Bogo, South Korea

This former warehouse is now home to one of the largest collections of books and used books in Seoul. The symmetrical space features curved bookshelves and beautiful open-air spaces with racks that stretch up high to the ceilings.

Each and every book here is unique, from independent publishers to personal collections donated by celebrities, bestsellers, and more. And yes, it’s one of the filming locations for the famous drama, Hotel Del Luna.

#2: Book and Bed, Japan

 

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Book and Bed makes the phrase ‘curl up with a good book’ more realistic than ever. This “accommodation bookshop” lets you read and buy books that you love and welcomes you to stay in the hostel if you would like.

The fusion bookstore and hostel offer you over 1,700 books to choose from in both Japanese and English. Can’t read Japanese? Fret not as there are specific genres in English translations available as well.

Beds are placed directly behind bookshelves, so you can simply reach out to grab a book and read yourself to sleep.

#3: Yangzhou Zhongshuge, China

 

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Plunge into a world of literary magic by visiting Yangzhou Zhongshuge, an underground tunnel-like room with reflective surfaces and curved structures to create an endless mirrored space that almost looks like still water.

The Chinese bookstore features mood lighting, starry twinkling lights, and a designated children’s space with colourful walls. Even if you don’t like to read, this place makes an excellent location for the gram or TikTok.

#4: Livraria Lello, Portugal

This grand and ornate bookstore stands out immediately as a beautiful work of old architecture and literary sanctuary.

Tucked into a city on the coast of Portugal, this neo-gothic masterpiece boasts a stained-glass ceiling, elaborated wood carvings, and ladders to the highest bookshelves. It fits in perfectly with the cobblestone streets and medieval atmosphere of the larger Porto neighbourhood surrounding it.

Oh right, did you know that this bookstore was even rumoured to be an inspiration for Harry Potter for J.K. Rowling? Rowling treaded Livraria Lello when she lived in the city in the 1990s.

#5: El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Argentina

 

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El Ateneo Grand Splendid was formerly a beautiful performing arts theatre in the heyday of Argentinian performing arts!

Later a cinema, the elegant bookstore still has its original frescoed ceiling, theatre boxes and balconies, red stage curtains, and even the same elaborate decorations and carvings from the past.

As you grab your next great read, allow someone to serenade you live on the piano. Sip a cuppa or waltz through the splendid space for an experience you will remember for a long time to come.

#6: Shakespeare & Company, France

 

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Known for hosting famous writers and readers for about seventy years, Shakespeare & Company in France is a must-visit, picturesque bookstore on every book lover’s list. To be specific, it’s sited right in the heart of Paris.

Go beyond the whimsical green walls, and you will time travel to a display of some of the world’s most famous collections of books. From Voltaire to Ernest Hemingway, this bookstore has kept pieces of literary history alive within its walls since the 1950s.

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Quirky accommodations worldwide to add to your travel bucket list

Dog Bark Park Inn B&B, United States

Are you ready to enjoy a fun and memorable vacation? Are you bold and prepared for an adventure a little off the beaten path?

Well, not quite yet with the ongoing pandemic. Staycations will do for now, but there’s nothing wrong with looking forward to “vaccine passports”. We’ve searched the globe looking for some of the most interesting, weird, and just plain quirky accommodations around the world.

Let’s venture forward right away!

#1: Dog Bark Park Inn B&B, United States

Dog Bark Park Inn B&B cover image

Price: from S$170+/night

Idaho might not be on your radar as a vacation destination. Still, this American state boasts beautiful mountain landscapes and tranquil recreation areas – not to mention some of the best potatoes on earth.

This is all nice enough, but Idaho also happens to host one of the unique hotels out there: the Dog Bark Park Inn B&B. The Airbnb accommodation is situated on the edge of Cottonwood.

If you have ever dreamt of living with a giant beagle, this is the right holiday space for you. This Airbnb offers guests two bedrooms, one bathroom, a balcony with a view, and a friendly wag.

#2: SiloStay, New Zealand

SiloStay, New Zealand

Price: from S$220+/night

Next up, we have this special accommodation in the shape of a silo. Do you know what a silo is? It is a structure used in agriculture to store grain or fermented feed.

SiloStay is sited in Little River, near Christchurch, New Zealand. It is built with green technology and eco-friendly systems throughout the location and conveniently located a short walk from the Little River Rail Trail. You’re just a stone’s throw away to an art gallery and a local cafe.

Guests will be housed in rooms that come with a kitchenette, electric blankets, and satellite television. SiloStay is a unique place for travellers to unwind after a long day of enjoying all that Christchurch offers.

#3: Huilo Huilo Montaña Mágica Lodge, Chile

Huilo Huilo Montaña Mágica Lodge, Chile

Price: from S$240+/night

The South American nation is home to the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, a natural wonderland in the heart of the forest. There, visitors can stay at the Huilo Huilo Montaña Mágica Lodge. 

Unlike an ordinary vacation space, the Montaña Mágica Lodge is built to blend in with the landscape. Shaped like a mountain and covered in natural vegetation, this lodge is absolutely distinctive.

While it may look like part of the wilderness and shabby outside, don’t judge the book by its cover. The accommodation features a spa & wellness centre and an indoor pool. By booking a stay here, you can chill out in your cosy room and enjoy soothing garden views with daily breakfast.

#4: V8 Hotel Classic Motorworld Region Stuttgart, Germany

V8 Hotel Classic Motorworld Region Stuttgart, Germany

Price: from S$250+/night

If an escape to the forest isn’t for you, perhaps this particular listing in Germany is more appealing. The hotel sits right in Böblingen, a town of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. You will be within a 30-minute drive to Stuttgart.

Boasting some of Germany’s sophisticated cultural attractions such as ballet and opera, Stuttgart hosts some of the top sights, including the Mercedes Benz Museum and Porsche Museum.

There’s no more attractive place for car lovers to stay in Böblingen than the V8 Hotel Classic Motorworld. This 4-star hotel is a masterwork of Bauhaus design and features an automotive theme. Guests can sleep in beds made from classic cars and enjoy uniquely themed rooms. 

If you can’t afford to drive in luxury, sleep in it.

#5: Dasparkhotel, Austria

 

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Price: from S$440+/night

Dasparkhotel is a unique new hotel venture just a 15-minute drive from Linz. You may wish to pack light as the Dasparkhotel is quite minimalist in design. Guests will stay in cosy, barrel-shaped rooms that were previously used as sewage pipes.

It is furnished with a mattress, storage, a lamp, and a power outlet for your devices. Travellers wishing to see the River Danube up close and personal won’t be disappointed when staying at the Dasparkhotel Ottensheim. That’s because the rooms face out to a creek flowing into River Danube.

It’s hard to imagine a weirder place to stay than in a recycled drainpipe! But we’re not yet done with our list.

#6: The Caves, Jamaica

The Caves, Jamaica

Price: from S$900+/night

Have you taken a vacation to the Caribbeans? Jamaica is one of the finest countries in this beautiful region, and we’re saving the best for the last. The setting at The Caves is uniquely close to the ocean and a perfect retreat for couples.

Unwind in your private cottage, wander down to the resort’s bar made from two limestone caves, or relax and soak in their cliffside hot tub. Take the stairs down to the water and enjoy the magnificent view of the ocean, or take a walk to Seven Mile Beach to swim and watch the sunset.

Or you can also enjoy a round of golf at the nearby Negril Hills Golf Club or head to the Kool Running Waterpark just a 15-minute drive away. There’s no better way to enjoy Jamaica than The Caves.

Final Thoughts

We can’t travel at the moment, but travel will resume someday.

The next time you’re planning your holiday, consider staying at one of these weird but refreshing accommodations. Chain hotels and resorts can be comfortable, but memories made at these quirky and unique locations will last you a lifetime!

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11 realisations we had while watching the first part of Bling Empire

Bling Empire Netflix cover image

Bling Empire’s the rage right now. It’s probably one of the trending keywords in Singapore and among several other Asian communities. The new reality show by Netflix which aired on 15 January features the life stories of a group of rich Asians living in Los Angeles. This includes Kane Lim, a Singaporean cast member. 

We read from an exclusive interview that Kane gathered his LA friends to form Bling Empire’s cast. Together with Kelly Mi Li, they were the ones who pitched the reality show idea to Jeff Jenkins. Jenkins is the producer who was in charge of Keeping Up With The Kardashians’ production.

There are already a couple of reviews on Bling Empire, so we will spare you from that. What we are keen on focusing on is not the way the rich flaunt their wealth. Instead, while watching the program, we had some meaningful realisations. Here are 12 that stuck with us while watching the first part (episodes 1 to 4).

Fashion & Business

#1: Less is more when it comes to jewellery

Less is more when it comes to jewellery

Do you agree with Christine that more is more when it comes to jewellery? Putting the wealthy mindset aside, we agree more with Coco Chanel that simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance. It’s also wise that you heed this advice, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory.”

#2: Never put the offer first

Never put the offer first

This is some wise advice on the art of negotiation. While it may not work in every workplace or client discussion, if you can, take it from Kane to allow the other party to give you an offer first before closing the deal. This could even work for a new job’s salary negotiation if done wittily and correctly!

Life & Relationships

#3: Live life to its fullest

Live life to its fullest

What a powerful reminder to have at the start of 2021. Everyone has their definition of what “fullest” means. No matter the intention, we think it’s essential that we live life within our means. Hold that swipe at the store if you think you won’t be able to clear that credit card bill at the end of its cycle.

#4: The right person will come along when it’s due

The right person will come along when it’s due

Kim shared in Bling Empire that her mum advocates the idea of working hard, being independent, and not worrying about any man. This is especially true for ladies (and gentlemen) who are worried about their love life. Focus on yourself first, and the right person will come to you when it’s due.

#5: Sex benefits of caviar

Sex benefits of caviar

According to Cherie, caviar is a natural viagra for men. We researched and found that high-fat animal foods like caviar can help stimulate the production of sex hormones such as testosterone. Think you can afford some to boost your libido? Check out where to have premium caviar in Singapore.

#6: True change takes time

True change takes time

Dr Bethany Marshall, the psychoanalyst who was featured during Kelly and Andrew’s therapy session, revealed an excellent point. That is, real change takes place slowly. While it’s good to be quick to forgive, remember that a person does not overturn their bad habits overnight. Be sure to give it some time before you reassess your relationships status and make the next move.

#7: Ability to control people with money

Ability to control people with money

While discussing the topic of surrogacy, Christine’s husband, Dr Gabriel Chiu, commented that when it comes to using money to control people, it’s possible. What are your thoughts? Considering most of us being placed towards the end on a financial spectrum, would you gladly be governed by the rich using money as a weapon?

#8: Need for privacy in sharing about your relationship

Need for privacy in sharing about your relationship

We’ve got to agree with Andrew that privacy is necessary for a relationship. Oversharing your relationship issues can stir up troubles, especially if your partner is one that values privacy. Kane shared in an episode about Kelly’s sex life with Andrew and Kevin. As Ryan Howes, a psychologist in Pasadena, California, rightly points out, “Without consent, discussing the specifics of your sex life should be a no-no.”

#9: Be respectful as a house guest

Be respectful as a house guest

With the approaching Chinese New Year, there’s no better time than now to remind yourself to be respectful when home visiting. Kim and Guy are the exact opposite of who you should be – walking into Anna’s bedroom and shower and then invading her privacy by throwing a penis pump out of her house window in front of other guests.

#10: Apologies has its limits

Apologies has its limits

Kevin decided to be the bigger person and apologise because Kim felt no remorse in her actions. Though it’s praiseworthy to be the person apologising when it seems like you’re not at fault, sometimes it’s better to let the situation cool before relooking into it again. This is to prevent similar problems from happening again.

#11: Perspectives matter

Perspectives matter

It takes courage to look back on one’s life and make a comment as Anna did. In episode four, Anna revealed that though she had four marriages and then divorced following, it was good. No, we’re not backing that divorce is the only way out for problematic relationships, but more of seeing the good in the past while moving on to the next chapter in life. All things happen for a reason!

Did the abovementioned realisations speak to you? Watch it on Nextflix if you’re keen! Meanwhile, please excuse us as we continue with the second half of Bling Empire for more life takeaways.

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Airbnb x K-pop: Exclusive Online Experiences festival to meet stars like MONSTA X, The Boyz & Jamie

Airbnb exclusive Online Experiences K-pop festival

Want an up-close encounter with your favourite K-pop stars? Thanks to Airbnb’s exclusive Online Experiences festival, you will get the chance to interact with some of the hottest celebrities in Korea without having to fly there.

Bookings will be available from Thursday, 21 January, starting at 7am (Singapore time). With more than 10 over K-pop experiences priced from just S$27, we’ve picked out some Online Experiences that you will love.

#1: Enter a mukbang with Joohoney & I.M of MONSTA X
Joohoney & I.M of MONSTA X

Image Credits: AllKpop

Date: Monday, 25 January

Time: 9am to 10am

Hosted in: English

Join the lead rappers of MONSTA X in this one-hour mukbang adventure. Mukbang (written as 먹방 in Korean) literally translates to “eat room”. By joining this “eating show” with Joohoney and I.M, you will get a glimpse of Korea’s convenience store food. They will share with you their unique convenience store food recipes and selected Korean seasonal dishes. Feel free to bring along your snacks to munch on during the experience.

#2: Make beaded bracelets with The Boyz
The Boyz

Image Credits: Soompi

Date: Monday, 25 January

Time: 12pm to 1pm

Hosted in: English

Are you trying to find an activity to rid you of the recent stress and anxiety build-up? Bring along your beading DIY kit and join Jacob, Kevin, Ju Haknyeon, and Eric from The Boyz in this lunchtime session. This is your chance to chat with the members that debuted in December 2017. The Boyz is also the winner of a television programme named “Road to Kingdom” that aired last year.

#3: Cravity invites you to their recipe-sharing session
Cravity members

Image Credits: Metro

Date: Monday, 25 January

Time: 3pm to 4pm

Hosted in: Korean

If you can understand and speak in Korean, why not join Cravity in their one-hour recipe-sharing session? Members of the boy group like Woobin, Allen, Seongmin, and Hyeongjun will be your hosts of the Airbnb Online Experience! Along with their guidance, you will be preparing a Korean dish called Gungjung Tteokbokki (written as 궁중떡볶이 in Korean). The delicacy that’s usually prepared with soy sauce instead of red chilli paste/gochujang will transport you to the royal palace during the Joseon dynasty.

#4: Nail your K-beauty routine with Jamie
Jamie Park

Image Credits: Koreaboo

Date: Wednesday, 27 January

Time: 9am to 10am

Hosted in: English

Fans of all things Korea might be familiar with the multi-seasonal South Korean television series titled “K-Pop Star’. If yes, the name “Park Jimin” might ring a bell. Widely known to the public as Jamie now, she’s the show’s first season proud winner. Jamie will guide you in her daily skincare routine and show you her favourite make-up look. This is not just a step-by-step guide but also a highly interactive session where you can ask questions and have them answered!

Other Korean make-up related Airbnb Online Experiences:

#5: Join Handong in a private Airbnb photoshoot
Handong of Dreamcatcher

Image Credits: Soompi

Date: Wednesday, 27 January

Time: 6pm to 7pm

Hosted in: Chinese (simplified)

Chinese New Year is around the corner, and this means there will be plenty of photo-taking opportunities. Want to appear more photogenic? Learn how to ace your facial expressions, plus learn valuable tips on gestures and the right postures to take. You will be hosted by Handong, a Chinese member of a South Korean girl group – Dreamcatcher. Here’s an opportunity to take a sneak peek at a live photoshoot and behind-the-scenes action.

For gentlemen who can understand Japanese, please check this out:

#6: Enjoy a concert with K-pop singer-songwriter, NIve
NIve

Image Credits: The Hype Magazine

Date: Thursday, 28 January

Time: 12pm to 1pm

Hosted in: English

NIve (written as 니브 in Korean) is a producer, composer, and songwriter with a diverse international background. He was born in Korea, raised in Australia, musically educated in New York, and launched his career in LA. NIve has worked with many renowned celebrities, including BTS and EXO. Potential singer-songwriter wannabes should take it from the man himself on songwriting and composition tips.

#7: Learn to style hair like a K-pop idol
IZ*ONE

Image Credits: ALUU

Date: Thursday, 28 January

Time: 4pm to 5pm

Hosted in: English & Korean

K-pop stars always appear in tiptop condition on commercials, fashion shows, and professional photoshoots. Those who are keen to know the industry secrets on the art of hairstyling and products used by Korean hairstylists should join Yonghan from 알루 (ALUU) in this 60-minute online session. 알루 (ALUU) is located in Seoul’s most upscale district – Gangnam. Here’s a look at their portfolio of stars they’ve styled thus far.

Ladies who are keen on the tricks of maintaining your bangs should book this session:

#8: Master dance moves from IZ*ONE’s choreographer
Freemind dance crew's Dasom

Image Credits: Airbnb

Date: Friday, 29 January

Time: 12pm to 1pm

Hosted in: English & Korean

You will be learning directly from Dasom, a choreographer for girl group IZ*ONE. The Korean-Japanese K-pop group was formed in 2018 through a competition show titled “Produce 48”, which is also the third season of “Produce 101”. Your host is part of the Freemind dance crew and has created several dance routines for well-known artistes such as Monsta X and Cravity. See for yourself how dance routines come alive, including the derivation of inspiration.

Here are other dance classes to consider:

Have a blast at Airbnb’s exclusive Online Experiences K-pop festival. One week only, don’t miss it!

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