Where to Go with the World’s Strongest Passport

In 2024, Singapore continues to hold the title of having the most powerful passport in the world, sharing the top rank on the Henley Passport Index with France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Spain. This ranking is based on the number of destinations passport holders can visit without a pre-approved visa. For Singaporeans, this translates into unparalleled travel freedom. Here’s how you can make the most of the world’s strongest passport.

SET SPONTANEOUS ADVENTURES

With visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 192 countries, the Singaporean passport allows for spontaneous travel decisions. Whether you feel like exploring Japan’s cherry blossoms, enjoying a weekend in Paris, or experiencing the historic ruins of Rome, your travel plans can be made on a whim, turning dreams into reality without the hassle of visa applications.

EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS HORIZONS

For business professionals, this passport is a gateway to global opportunities. Effortless access to major economies like the United States, European Union, and China facilitates international networking and business expansion. You can attend important conferences, meet with global partners, and explore new markets without worrying about visa restrictions, making your business ventures more efficient and productive.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

PURSUE OVERSEAS EDUCATION

Students can take advantage of the Singaporean passport to access prestigious universities worldwide. Whether it’s studying the arts in Italy, engineering in Germany, or business in the United States, the ease of travel opens doors to a myriad of educational opportunities, fostering a well-rounded and globally informed academic experience.

IMMERSE IN DIVERSE CULTURES

The world is rich with cultural experiences waiting to be explored. With the strongest passport, you can dive into the vibrant street life of Bangkok, explore the art and history of Spain, or relax in the serene landscapes of New Zealand. Each journey provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, enriching your personal and professional life.

ENGAGE IN WELLNESS TOURS

The growing trend of health and wellness tourism is easily accessible with a powerful passport. Travel to Switzerland for cutting-edge medical treatments, India for holistic yoga retreats, or South Korea for advanced skincare regimens. This access ensures you can seek the best health and wellness options globally, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.

PROMOTE RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

With great travel freedom comes great responsibility. Singaporean passport holders can set an example by practicing sustainable and responsible travel. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and respect cultural heritage. This mindful approach ensures that your travels have a positive impact on the environment and the communities you visit.

IN CONCLUSION

Image Credits: unsplash.com

The Singaporean passport is more than just a travel document; it’s a key to unlocking the world’s wonders. From spontaneous getaways and business expansions to educational pursuits and cultural immersions, the strongest passport in the world provides endless opportunities. Embrace this freedom and embark on adventures that enrich your life and broaden your horizons.

Source: 1

 

Read More...

5 FREE Things to Do in Marina Bay

Are you searching for the top activities to enjoy in Marina Bay, Singapore without breaking the bank? This guide has got you covered with a lineup of free and budget-friendly attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit! And when we say budget-friendly, we mean absolutely free!

1. TAKE A LEISURELY STROLL IN GARDENS BY THE BAY

Gardens by the Bay is like stepping into a fantastical world and ranks among the top attractions in Marina Bay Singapore!

While wandering through the Supertree Groves is free of charge, you can elevate your experience by catching a panoramic view of the area from the suspended walkway known as the Supertree Observatory, priced at S$10 for adults and S$7 for children or senior citizens.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Get your tickets here: gardensbythebay.com.sg

2. EXPERIENCE A LIVE PERFORMANCE AT ESPLANADE

Don’t overlook the complimentary performances and captivating artistic displays at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – they’re just as captivating as those in the concert halls, if not more so!

From local talents to international acts, Esplanade offers a diverse array of performances that are definitely worth your time.

Check out the schedule here: esplanade.com/whats-on

3. WITNESS THE SPECTRA LIGHT & WATER SHOW

When night falls over Marina Bay, be sure to catch the Spectra light and water show, taking place every night at 8 pm and 9 pm, with an additional show on Fridays and Saturdays at 10 pm. Laser lights choreograph to the rhythm of the music, casting vibrant images over the water spray for a 15-minute visual extravaganza – and the best part? It’s entirely free!

Plus, during Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour, expect to hear some of her chart-topping hits.

4. EXPLORE THE ICONIC SIGHTS WITH APPLE

Embark on an evening tour around Marina Bay and master the art of capturing stunning low-light photos using Night mode and more on your iPhone. Learn how to adjust exposure, balance foreground and background, and capture your best night shot with simple techniques. This tour covers approximately 500m. Remember to bring your iPhone or use the latest one provided!

The next session is scheduled for Monday, March 18th, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Sign up here: apple.com/sg.

5. SET SAIL FOR FREE

Take the helm and sail aboard DBS sailboats, soaking in breathtaking views as you glide along the Marina Bay waterfront promenade for 30 to 40 minutes – all at no cost!

The DBS Marina Bay Sailing Programme is part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to enliven the bay and offer more opportunities for everyone to experience sailing around the Marina Reservoir.

Hop aboard the SB20 and the SM40, and see Singapore’s Marina Bay from a whole new perspective. Booking is available monthly, so reserve your spot here: dbs.com.

Location: Marina Bay, boarding at Pontoon beside Customs House (70 Collyer Quay 049323 Singapore)

Marina Bay offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences without straining your wallet. From the surreal ambiance of Gardens by the Bay to the enchanting performances at Esplanade and the mesmerizing Spectra light show, there’s something for everyone. Dive into photography workshops with Apple or set sail on the Marina Bay waterfront, all at 0 dollars. Enjoy!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Read More...

Unlock Your Inner Mecha: Experience the Giant Gundam in Yokohama ‘Til March 2024

Browsing through your social media feed, you’ve probably noticed a delightful trend: many of your friends are jetting off to Japan. This surge in travel is fueled by enticing airline seat sales and the enchanting cherry blossom season, coupled with the allure of visiting attractions that resonate with anime enthusiasts. Among these captivating sights stands the 18-meter Gundam statue in Yokohama, slated to operate until March 31, 2024.

Here’s the good news: the Embassy of Japan in Singapore confirms that Singaporean citizens can enjoy visa-free entry into Japan for short-term tourist stays of up to 90 days. As for non-Singaporeans, checking if your country qualifies for visa-free travel or applying for a short-term visa online is a straightforward process.

Now, let’s talk about the Gundam. Prepare to be awestruck by this extraordinary 18-meter marvel in Yokohama, undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking attractions to date. With its flashing LED lights, articulated limbs, and the ability to step out from its docking station, this colossal robot stands as a testament to modern engineering marvels. Development of this project began in 2014, with designers investing several years in perfecting its mechanics before unveiling the Gundam in December 2020. For ticket information, visit the Gundam Factory Yokohama website: gundam-factory.net/en.

Tickets for Gundam Factory Yokohama entrance are priced at 1,650 Yen/adult and 1,100 Yen/child (ages 7 to 12). Additionally, there’s the option of purchasing a Gundam-Dock Tower viewing ticket, priced at 3,300 Yen for both adults and children. To access the Gundam statue up close, the purchase of a Gundam-Dock Tower viewing ticket is required, which includes admission to the factory.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Before embarking on your journey to Japan, consider these travel tips:

1. TRANSPORT PUNCTUALITY

Punctuality is key in Japan, particularly for their high-speed railway, the Shinkansen. Trains depart promptly, so ensure you arrive well in advance of departure times.

2. JAPAN RAIL PASS

Secure a Japan Rail Pass in advance for convenient travel across the country. While passes are now available for purchase at select stations and airports until March 31, 2024, online purchases remain more cost-effective.

A 7-day Ordinary Pass and Green Pass will cost approximately S$277.65 and S$370.79, respectively, on Klook, and approximately S$280.80 and S$375.30, respectively, on the JR Pass website. Both options also include free delivery to your address in Singapore.

3. CONVENIENCE STORE FINDS

Indulge in Japan’s convenience stores, known as konbinis, offering an array of fresh and affordable food options, along with other essentials. Personally, my husband and I enjoyed the snacks and desserts in the convenience store. Moreover, anime merchandise is available there too.

4. CASH PAYMENTS

Cash is preferred in many establishments, so ensure you have sufficient funds for your trip. While credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are widely accepted, some places may not accept American Express. ATMs can be scarce in Japan, so convenience stores, many of which are open 24/7, often have ATMs for your convenience.

5. CHERRY BLOSSOM VIEWING

If planning a trip to see the cherry blossoms, aim for late March to early April in Tokyo (i.e., Flowering: March 22 / Full bloom: March 29), Osaka (i.e., Flowering: March 24 / Full bloom: April 1), and Kyoto (i.e., Flowering: March 22 / Full bloom: March 31). Alternatively, head north to cities like Sapporo, where blossoms bloom from late April to the first week of May (i.e., Flowering: April 30 / Full bloom: May 4).

Image Credits: unsplash.com

By using these tips, you’re sure to make the most of your adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun!

Sources: 1,2,3, & 4

 

Read More...

Capture IG-Worthy Moments at the Claude Monet-Inspired Exhibition in Gardens by the Bay This July

In my quest for exciting activities and hidden gems within the Red Dot, a captivating advertisement caught my eye – “Impressions of Monet: The Garden” at Gardens by the Bay.

Mark your calendars because, from July 12, 2024, this exhibition promises to transport you into the enchanting world of Claude Monet, the renowned French painter.

BACKGROUND OF THE EXHIBITION

Enter the realm of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a visionary who not only pioneered but passionately championed the Impressionist style. Originating in France in the 1860s, Impressionism is a painting movement that focuses on capturing the visual essence of a moment, emphasizing the play of light and color.

Prepare for a truly immersive experience as a digital presentation breathes life into the timeless masterpieces of Claude Monet. Complementing this, a delightful floral arrangement painstakingly recreates the landscapes that fueled Monet’s creativity in Giverny, France.

Titled “Impressions of Monet,” the exhibit unfolds in two captivating zones: The Garden and The Experience. Step into The Garden at the Flower Dome, where you’ll be welcomed by scenes reminiscent of Monet’s own Giverny garden in France.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Transition to The Experience, where several of Monet’s masterpieces come alive on the walls and ceiling. Amidst a lively symphony of strobe lights and tunes, you’re invited to roam freely, becoming part of the living canvas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Revel in the recreation of Monet’s iconic pink house and its garden, now the second most visited tourist attraction in Normandy, France. Explore the adjacent Clos Normand garden and the serene Water Garden, both integral to Monet’s later works. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the beauty of hydrangeas, weeping willows, digitalis, daisies, delphiniums, and geraniums – all echoing the flora of Monet’s original gardens.

What’s more? Feast your eyes on the green Japanese bridge and water lilies, subjects immortalized in Monet’s renowned Water Lilies series.

This multi-sensory adventure is a deep dive into the heart of French Impressionism, offering glimpses of 19th-century Europe through the eyes of Monet and his fellow Impressionist painters.

Get lost in the grandeur of famous, inspirational images set to a powerful classical score. Watch as paintings are projected at an enormous scale, illuminating the bold brushstrokes of Monet, Camille Pissarro, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and many other luminaries.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary exhibition running from July 12 to September 15, 2024, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Admission ticket prices start at S$8 for Singapore residents. Prepare to embark on a journey into the captivating world of Monet’s artistry – an experience that promises to linger in your heart and Instagram feed alike!

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

ComfortDelGro’s Taxi Rates Rise with 50-Cent Flagdown & Peak-Hour Surcharge

ComfortDelGro, Singapore’s largest taxi operator, managing over 8,900 taxis under the Comfort and CityCab brands, comprising about 60 percent of the nation’s taxi fleet, has announced an impending increase in cab fares. This adjustment is expected to have a significant impact on commuters due to the company’s extensive reach.

The decision to raise the flagdown fare and other surcharges was disclosed on December 6 by ComfortDelGro. The motive behind this fare revision is to assist taxi drivers in offsetting heightened operational expenses attributed to the surge in fuel prices, escalating inflation rates, and the anticipated Goods and Services Tax (GST) hike.

According to ComfortDelGro, the estimated fare for a 10-kilometer off-peak regular taxi journey is set to witness a 6.8 percent increase, translating to S$0.94, elevating the fare from S$13.80 to S$14.74. While flagdown fares for limousine taxis remain unchanged, distances, and waiting time fares experience a marginal increment from S$0.35 to S$0.36.

This fare adjustment encompasses all metered fare trips, including those made through the CDG Zig app and other ride-hailing platforms. The revised fares took effect from 6 am last December 13.

PEAK HOUR SURCHARGE

In addition to the fare increase, a new peak hour surcharge will be introduced from 10:00 am to 1:59 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The definition of “evening peak hour” will also be extended by an hour, now spanning from 5:00 pm to 11:59 pm, applicable from Monday through Sunday, including public holidays. This peak hour surcharge amounts to 25 percent of the metered fare.

Trans-cab and other taxi services such as Strides Premier and Prime Taxi have announced their alignment with ComfortDelGro’s fare adjustments. These taxis shall implement the new weekend peak-hour surcharge and extend the evening peak-hour surcharge by one hour, with the changes set to take effect concurrently from December 13.

UPCOMING GST INCREASE CONCERNS

The National Taxi Association (NTA), which ComfortDelGro consulted before proposing the fare adjustments, expressed its support for the move. NTA adviser Yeo Wan Ling acknowledged the challenges faced by taxi drivers in coping with rising costs and emphasized the importance of this fare adjustment in aiding drivers dealing with increased living and operating expenses.

The upcoming GST increase to 9 percent on January 1, 2024, is an additional concern for taxi operators as it impacts various operational aspects, including rental, food, and parking expenses. Yeo Wan Ling highlighted that the fare increase would contribute to higher take-home pay for taxi drivers, offering timely relief from the impending GST hike and supporting them in meeting their financial obligations and providing for their families. The fare adjustment is seen as a welcome measure that addresses the current challenges faced by cabbies, providing both relief and support.

Image Credits: facebook.com/ComfortDelGroTaxi

How will these affect the commuters in the long run?

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Read More...