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6 terrifically rated accommodations in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, to book a stay in H2 of 2025

Been to Taipei too many times and want to explore another side of Taiwan? 🇹🇼

Go for Kaohsiung!

Dream Mall, The Pier2 Art Center, and Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are begging you for a visit.

And to help with your travel planning, we’ve got a list of terrifically rated accommodations for your consideration.

Take a look! 👀

Formosa Boulevard Station Garden Hotel

Agoda Rating: 9.5 (6.1K+ reviews)

Formosa Boulevard Station Garden Hotel puts you a short stroll from must-see attractions like The Dome of Light, Liuhe Night Market, and the Formosa Boulevard metro station.

Conveniently located 7.8 km from Kaohsiung International Airport, you can start your adventure almost right after landing.

Family travelers will appreciate the range of accommodations, including triples, quads, and family-sized rooms.

KLA B&B

Agoda Rating: 9.5 (1.2K+ reviews)

Wondering where to hang your hat in Kaohsiung?

KLA B&B is the answer, with its location just 8.5 km from the international airport and a stone’s throw from an MRT station.

This B&B offers both dorms and private rooms to suit any traveler’s needs.

Families are welcome too, with family room options and a wallet-friendly perk letting kids 12 and under stay free when sharing existing bedding.

Silks Club

Agoda Rating: 9.4 (3.8K+ reviews)

Just 5.7 km from Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH), Silks Club offers studios to spacious suites, and more.

You can opt for a room with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing city or harbor vistas, too.

Just a short stroll away, the Kaohsiung Main Public Library beckons bookworms.

Editor’s note: Little ones under 10 are not allowed at this property.

JOHO HOTEL

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (5.3K+ reviews)

JOHO HOTEL is just 8.2 km from Kaohsiung International Airport and within 600 m of must-see spots like The Dome of Light and Liuhe Tourist Night Market.

This highly-rated hotel offers a range of rooms, from deluxe to standard.

Non-smokers will appreciate the non-smoking room options, and families will love the free stays for kids under 6.

Selected rooms come with a bathtub.

H2O Hotel

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (5.2K+ reviews)

Discover luxurious hospitality at the 5-star H2O Hotel, just 10.9 km from Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH).

Ideally situated near Ai He (Love River) and Dragon Tiger Tower, you will be connected by the nearby Kaohsiung Arena MRT Station.

H2O Hotel offers deluxe to premier and luxury suite accommodations.

For families, kids 5 and under stay for free if using existing bedding.

River Trees Hotel

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.7K+ reviews)

New adventures await at River Trees Hotel, just 7.6 km from Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH).

Newly renovated in 2024, the hotel offers a fresh escape while keeping you close to Liuhe Tourist Night Market (only 1.6 km away).

Standard rooms and even roomy quadruple accommodations ideal for larger groups are available for booking.

6 awesomely rated accommodations in Athens, Greece, to book a stay in 2025

Only heard about the Acropolis of Athens but have never seen it in real life?

It’s a sign you need to book a trip to Athens!

And to help you with travel planning, we’ve shortlisted some awesomely rated accommodations to book a stay in the capital of Greece 🇬🇷

First up, we have Elia Ermou Athens Hotel, a 4-star hotel that puts you within walking distance of the city’s ruins, including the Temple of Hephaestus and National Archeological Museum—both within 1.5km away.

The hotel’s standard classic rooms provide the basics, while upgraded suite options let you admire the Acropolis views from your window.

Awarded as a top choice on Agoda in 2024, the Elia Ermou is a 19.5km jaunt from Athens International Airport.

Mosaikon Glostel

Agoda Rating: 9.4 (2.5K+ reviews)

In the shadow of the Acropolis, this Athens hostel is just 650 m from the city’s crown jewel.

Travelers can choose between mixed dorms and female-only dorms in 4-, 6-, or 8-bed configurations.

Select rooms even feature balconies.

It’s also approx. a 20 km shuttle from Athens International Airport (ATH).

Acropolis Stay Hotel Athens

Agoda Rating: 9.4 (1.1K+ reviews)

The Acropolis Stay Hotel Athens is situated just 470 m from the Temple of Olympian Zeus and a 19.6km drive from Athens International Airport (ATH).

Whether you opt for a double room, spacious studio, or family-sized apartment, the Acropolis Stay has accommodation options.

And with infants up to 2 years old staying free and baby cots available at no charge, this hotel is an affordable option for families.

Athens Hub Hostel

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.6K+ reviews)

Athens Hub Hostel puts you just steps from sites like the Monastiraki and the Temple of Hephaestus – less than 300 m.

Go for one of the mixed or female-only dorm rooms or grab a budget double room and enjoy low rates for such a prime location.

Don’t overspend on overpriced hotels when you can stay central and easily walk to must-see attractions.

Mitsis N’U Piraeus Port

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (1.2K+ reviews)

Just 200m from Piraeus Railway Station, the brand new Mitsis N’U Piraeus Port hotel is the talk of the town after opening its doors in 2024.

It has already earned a top spot on Agoda travelers’ must-stay lists!

Whether you book one of the standard rooms or splurge on a suite, you’re in for top-notch hospitality and amenities.

The Social Athens Hotel

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (900+ reviews)

Wake up in the heart of historic Athens at The Social Athens Hotel — built in 2023.

History buffs will be glad to know that the Museum of the History of Greek Costume sits a mere 10 m away, while the Plaka neighborhood’s winding streets and lively shops are just a 900 m stroll away.

When you’re not out exploring, retreat to your guest room, ranging from signature/superior rooms to roomy suites with Lycabettus views and terraces.

Traveling with kids 12 and under?

They stay free if using existing bedding.

60+ newly launched stuff in June 2025 from Daiso Korea to buy & bring back to Singapore

Are you escaping Singapore’s summer for a taste of South Korea’s summer this month? ⛱️

Ha! 😎

If you’re somehow in South Korea during the summer season, check out this list of newly launched stuff in June 2025 from Daiso Korea to buy and bring back to Singapore.

Apart from swimming items, Daiso Korea has also launched a new skincare series from IT’S SKIN, and more.

Take a look! ☀️

#1: Arm Ring Tubes (2 Pcs) (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#2: Air Pump (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#3: Mirror Reflective Goggles (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#4: Anti-Fogging Goggles (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#5: Goggles Case (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#6: Spandex Swimming Cap (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#7: Silicon Swimming Cap (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#8: Hand Paddles (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#9: Swimming Kickboard (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#10: Swimming Ear & Nose Plugs (Set) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#11a: Kid’s Goggles (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#11b: Kid’s Snorkel (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#12: Diving Goggles (Assorted) (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#13: Silicon Snorkel (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#14: Pocket Translucent Bag (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#15: Sports Bag (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#16: Mesh Backpack (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#17: Lightweight Beach Towel (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#18: 7-Peptide Collagen Wrapping Pack (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#19: 7-Peptide Collagen BB Cream (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#20: 7-Peptide Collagen Ampoule Mask (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#21: 7-Peptide Collagen Ampoule (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#22: 7-Peptide Collagen Cream Stick (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#23: 7-Peptide Collagen Eye Cream (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#24: 7-Peptide Collagen Cream (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#25: Summer Cool Pillow / Cushion / Blanket (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#26: Stripe Indoor Slippers (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#27: Summer Cool Cushion / Pillow (Assorted) (3,000 to 5,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 to 4.69 SGD)

#28: Summer Cool Squarish Seat Cushion (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#29: Summer Cool Neck Pillow / Seat Cushion (Assorted) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#30: ‘Summer Crush’ Water Bottle (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#31: ‘Summer Crush’ Translucent Umbrella (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#32: Button Beach Gown (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#33: Hoodie Beach Gown (Top) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#34: ‘Summer Crush’ Sticker Pack (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#35: ‘Summer Crush’ Masking Sticker (4 Pcs) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#36: ‘Summer Crush’ Masking Tape (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#37: ‘Summer Crush’ Mini File Memo Pads (2 Pcs) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#38: Capybara Plush Toy (Assorted) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#39: Capybara Key Ring Plush Toy (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#40: Capybara Pouch (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#41: Capybara Coin Pouch (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#42a: Translucent Pouch (Oval) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#42b: Translucent Pouch (Squarish) (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#43: Muro Scrub Soap (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#44: Muro Soap (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#45: Glaze Dripping Tint (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#46: Chiffon Bonding Tint (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#47: Lip Tattoo Sticker (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#48: Moist Lip Gloss (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#49: Ink Liquid Eye Liner (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#50: Slim Fixing Brow Cara (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#51: Gel Eyeliner (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#52: Gel Eyeliner Brush (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#53: Anti-UV Umbrella (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#54: Automatic Umbrella (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.69 SGD)

#55: Raincoat (142 cm / 144 cm) (2,000 to 3,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 to 2.81 SGD)

#56: Dehumidifier Pack (1,000 KRW each; approx. 0.94 SGD) (4 for 3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#57: Strip Dehumidifier Pack (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#58: Deodorizing Dehumidifier (1,000 KRW each; approx. 0.94 SGD) (4 for 3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

#59: Dehumidifier Mini Packs (Food Use) (25 Pcs) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#60: Anti-Mold Tube (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.81 SGD)

All image credits to Daiso Korea.

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

5 perfectly rated accommodations in Perth, Australia, to book a stay in 2025

Elizabeth Quay, Fremantle Markets, and Kings Park and Botanic Garden are calling you to visit.

And you can do so by booking a trip to Perth! 🇦🇺

If you’re planning to fly to the capital of Western Australia, then you must check out this list of perfectly rated accommodations.

Just input your travel dates and book your stay(s)! 🏨

Quest South Perth Foreshore

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (1.4K+ reviews)

Just 11.5 km from the airport, this 4-star hotel puts you within 600 m of Perth Zoo and South Perth Observation Deck.

Accommodation types range from studios to 1/2/3-bedroom apartments that blend hotel comforts and residential amenities.

Traveling with kids? They stay free (up to age 6 if using existing bedding).

There are also disability access apartments to ensure an accommodating stay for all travelers.

The Ritz-Carlton, Perth

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (1.6K+ reviews)

The Ritz-Carlton, Perth is 10.5 km from Perth Airport (PER), providing quick access to the city’s The Bell Tower and Elizabeth Quay, just 250 m away.

Culture vultures can lose themselves in the art of The Perth Mint and Art Gallery of Western Australia, both within a 1-km stroll.

Quarters range from guest rooms to various studio types.

Families with kids will be glad to know that the hotel has a generous kids-stay-free policy (up to 12 years old).

Quest Perth Ascot

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (1.5K+ reviews)

Located just 3.3 km from Perth Airport, Quest Perth Ascot makes getting from the gate a breeze.

Once settled, Crown Perth’s casinos and nightlife are yours to explore just 4.5 km away.

Opened in 2020, they offer apartment-style stays ranging from studios to 1/2/3-bedrooms.

Go big or go bigger with enough room for the whole family, plus up to 4-year-old kiddos can snooze for free when using existing bedding.

Courtyard Perth, Murdoch

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (1.1K+ reviews)

Home to award-winning hospitality, the Courtyard Perth, Murdoch emerges as a top choice for Agoda travelers in 2024.

About 18.3 km from Perth Airport, this accommodation is around 10 km to Perth Zoo for family fun.

Guest rooms and suites cater to every travel style with free stays for kids under 11 using existing bedding.

The Westin Perth

Agoda Rating: 9 (1.9K+ reviews)

Rated among Agoda travelers’ top choices for 2024, The Westin Perth puts you within 800 m of the Perth Mint, Art Gallery of Western Australia, The Bell Tower, and Elizabeth Quay.

It’s also just a 9.9 km jaunt from Perth Airport.

Rooms range from premier types to club kings and executive suites.

Kids and teens up to 17 snooze for free using existing bedding, so you can spend that money on adventures instead.

Jetstar Asia to Cease Operations by July 31

For many Singaporeans, Jetstar Asia was more than an airline. It was a trusted escape, a weekend essential, and a familiar face in the skies.

Known for its budget-friendly fares and reliable service, Jetstar Asia quietly embedded itself into the routines and memories of countless travelers, especially those heading to nearby favorites like Thailand, the Philippines, and Japan.

TWO-DECADE JOURNEY COMES TO AN END

Jetstar Asia, the Singapore-based budget airline that has flown millions since its first in December 2004, has announced it will permanently cease operations on July 31, 2025. The announcement was made on June 11 through the airline’s social media channels, marking the end of a 21-year journey.

Image Credits: facebook.com/JetstarAsiaAirways

Founded as a joint venture with Qantas and Singapore’s Westbrook Investments, Jetstar Asia served 16 destinations across Asia and Australia with its fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. It operated as an affordable link across borders, connecting Singapore with cities in Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Sri Lanka, Japan, and more.

THE IMPACT OF RISING OPERATIONAL COSTS

The airline cited rising operational costs, mounting competition, and regional overcapacity as reasons behind the difficult decision. In a statement, Jetstar Asia said:

“Despite our best efforts to offset these rising costs, they are expected to continue into the foreseeable future, putting unsustainable pressure on our ability to offer low fares.”

Jetstar Asia is projected to post an A$35 million (S$29 million) underlying EBIT loss this financial year, which is a clear signal that the financial strain had become too great to bear.

MORE THAN 500 EMPLOYEES AFFECTED

More than 500 employees will be affected by the shutdown. The airline has promised redundancy packages that include four weeks’ pay for every year of service, bonuses for the current financial year, and a “thank you” payment.

Jetstar Asia is also offering ongoing staff travel benefits for a period equal to each employee’s tenure, along with job placement support. Its parent group, Qantas, stated that it is actively working to find job opportunities across the group and with other airlines in the region.

WHAT PASSENGERS NEED TO KNOW

Customers booked on flights after July 31 will be offered full refunds or alternative arrangements where possible. Affected passengers can visit the airline’s “Manage Booking” portal to submit refund requests.

Jetstar Asia has also pledged to convert unused travel vouchers into monetary refunds. Then, Club Jetstar members will receive more information by August.

Flights will operate on a progressively reduced schedule until the final day of service.

MARKING AN END OF AN ERA

Jetstar Asia’s closure affects only its operations. Thus, Jetstar Airways (JQ) from Australia and Jetstar Japan (GK) will continue its flights. Routes between Australia and Asia, including Singapore, remain active under the broader Jetstar brand.

Image Credits: facebook.com/JetstarAsiaAirways

For frequent travelers and aviation enthusiasts, Jetstar Asia’s exit marks the end of an era. It was part of first solo trips, last-minute getaways, and long-awaited reunions. As its bright orange tailfin vanishes from Changi’s tarmac, it leaves behind not just empty gates but unforgettable memories.

Sources: 1 & 2

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