Singapore Grand Prix 2023: Get Ready for the Ultimate Formula 1 Spectacle! (15-17 Sep 2023)

Photo by shawnanggg on Unsplash

Rev up your engines and fasten your seatbelts, Formula 1 fans, because the Singapore Grand Prix 2023 is just around the corner! As the city-state prepares to host another adrenaline-fueled race, we bring you all the exciting details and reasons why this year's event promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.

The Spectacular Night Race

There's nothing quite like the electrifying atmosphere of a night race, and Singapore delivers it like no other. Against the stunning backdrop of the city's iconic skyline, the Marina Bay Street Circuit transforms into a breathtaking sea of lights as the world's finest drivers navigate the challenging track under the stars. Get ready to witness the fusion of speed, technology, and sheer spectacle like never before!

Unique Circuit Challenges

The Marina Bay Street Circuit is renowned for its unique challenges, making it one of the most demanding tracks on the F1 calendar. With its combination of high-speed straights, tight corners, and unforgiving barriers, drivers need to display exceptional skill and precision to conquer this urban battleground. It's a true test of bravery and strategy that keeps fans on the edge of their seats throughout the race.

The Clash of the Titans

The Singapore Grand Prix attracts the crème de la crème of Formula 1, meaning you'll witness the ultimate clash of the titans. From reigning world champions to rising stars, the grid will be packed with extraordinary talent, each driver fiercely competing for victory. With the championship battles heating up, expect wheel-to-wheel action and nail-biting overtakes that will leave you breathless.

Off-Track Entertainment

Singapore Grand Prix isn't just about racing; it's a full-blown entertainment extravaganza! When you're not cheering in the grandstands, indulge in a wide range of off-track activities and concerts by world-renowned artists. From heart-pumping performances by international superstars to delectable gourmet delights, there's something for everyone to enjoy beyond the thrilling race action.

Soak in the Vibrant City Atmosphere

Singapore is more than just a host city; it's a vibrant metropolis brimming with culture, innovation, and unparalleled hospitality. Immerse yourself in the city's unique blend of traditional charm and modern marvels as you explore its bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and gastronomic delights. Whether it's sampling local delicacies at hawker centers or experiencing the stunning Gardens by the Bay, Singapore offers a truly unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Get ready to have your senses ignited and your heart racing at the Singapore Grand Prix 2023 (15-17 Sep 2023)! From the awe-inspiring night race to the fierce battles on the track, this Formula 1 event promises to be an exhilarating spectacle that will leave fans in awe. With the backdrop of Singapore's stunning cityscape and a lineup of world-class entertainment, this is one race weekend you won't want to miss. So mark your calendars, book your tickets, and join us in celebrating the pinnacle of motorsport in Lion City!

Grab your tickets here! 

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What You May Not Know About China

Photo by Hanson Lu 

As China is a gigantic country, it serves as home to countless places which contribute to its tourism industry. There are famous cities and provinces, but there are also some left unknown to many.

China is a vast country, one of the largest in the world. It is home to more than a billion people, the largest population indeed, who take pride in their prevailing history. It is a place where ancient eras beautifully convene with modern times, emphasizing the richness of its heritage. It is a place where the past and present both make a great deal to the development of a future that will continuously let the nation thrive.

With the omnipotent presence of Chinese influence, it is fairly explainable why the world seems to know a lot about the country. But when it comes to the towns, provinces, and cities occupying this enormous piece of land, to what extent is the people’s knowledge? Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other more famous places are the firsts to pop up in many people’s minds – places which most China tours put focuses on; but how about the other worthwhile locations?

CHANGSHA

Photo by yang miao

What was once home to the political dreams of Mao Zedong, Changsha had primarily earned its fame as the first major city that received full defense from the Chinese forces against Japanese occupancy during World War II. But over time, it had developed from an ordinary territory to an impressive allure. In support of its burgeoning economy, this capital of Hunan Province improves to draw in tourists from Singapore and all parts of the world through its unscathed nature, remarkable history, and highly regarded heritage.

Every trip to Changsha should highlight a visit to the famous Hunan University. Where the historical Yuelu Academy of the Golden Song Dynasty once stood, it is now more known for its dramatic mountain sceneries. There is also the Wulingyuan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that takes pride in its glorious natural scenery consisting of sandstone pillars and towering trees the mist consistently kisses. Particularly in the area of Zhangjiajie, giant salamanders can be found.

Changsha proposes an invitation for tourists to delve into its heritage through the west side area of Xiang River where culinary delicacies are served with delight. The place is known for its spicy dishes, similar to Szechuan recipes.

SHENZHEN

Photo by Robert Bye

Almost four years ago, CNN Travel classified Shenzhen as one of the most underrated cities in China. Four years after, it had evolved into one of the most important tourist destinations in the country, enjoying the title of one of UNESCO’s Creative Cities.

A populous city indeed, Shenzhen is located just adjacent to Hong Kong and is thus a common detour destination for many tourists. But it had proven its independent charm worthy of visitors over the years; although admittedly, there are still some people who have minimal knowledge about it.

Shenzhen is a fairly developed city that is greatly known for the creativity of its people. Art galleries, art-themed bars, and restaurants, design districts, and craft markets – these are just some of the usual venues where locals come together to vent out all their creative innuendos.

Many think that Shenzhen is a boring city that puts highlights only its shopping and massage industries. However, photo enthusiasts and nature lovers will surely find themselves pleased with the impact the city intends to impress on its visitors. The lovely parks like the Lianhua Mountain Park, Fairy Lake Botanical Gardens, and Wutong Mountain National Park provide impeccable venues for family and friends bonding moments. The dramatic backdrops of nature in these places are so much worth the trip.

Playing roles in the historical development of China, Shenzhen is also home to some remarkable sites like the Xin’an Ancient City, Dapeng Ancient Fort, and the Chiwan Left Fort.

XIAMEN

Photo by Lavinia Arances

Vibrant and totally alive, these are the two words often used to describe Xiamen. A coastal city in Fujian, it holds an essential role in the economic development of China for being one of the earliest Special Economic Zones. With its name literally translating to ‘door to the house’, it is indeed a portal to the country that has been opened centuries ago.

Tourists are drawn to the stunning combination of tradition and modernity that is Xiamen. Finding solace in its unique heritage are different attractions that captivate people’s attention. Among the most famous destinations are Nanputou Temple, Yundang Lake, Hulishan Fortress, and Xiamen University.

However, the distinction offered by Xiamen is actually found mainly at Gulangyu Island, a famous tourist destination just roughly five minutes of ferry ride away from the harbor of Xiamen. It is a small place one can easily explore on foot. Cars and motorcycles are banned, contributing to their beautiful individuality, although battery-operated golf-cart type taxis are now being used by some people.

There is more than meets the eye indeed; and whether on first-class or cheap flights to China, people are invited to discover the beauty within what is common – to explore what some other people might not know.

Ways to Avoid Getting Sick During Long Flights

Photo by Suhyeon Choi

It’s natural for some people to experience sickness during long flights. Dizziness, nausea, sweating, and vomiting are only some of the sicknesses that one can have while staying in an airplane for long hours. There are lots of ways to avoid or cure airplane sickness. Here are some of them:

• When you buy air tickets, make sure to choose a seat over the wing part of the plane.

 This part of the plane has less movement compared to the others, so staying here will minimize the chances of you getting nauseous. It will also depend on other factors, such as the size of the plane. You will most likely feel dizzier in small planes since turbulence and movement are more noticeable.

• Choose a window seat.

You can reserve or ask for a window seat, which can help ease your dizziness during the flight. During the nighttime, try to take a nap since you can’t see anything from the window.

• Avoid eating heavy meals before boarding the plane.

Heavy food can make your stomach feel queasy during flight and can make you throw up. Just take a small meal before the flight, preferably one that does not contain spicy or greasy foods.

• Take anti-nausea medications before the flight.

This will help control the dizziness and will make you feel more rested during the trip. Most medications require you to take them an hour before boarding the plane.

• Stay hydrated during the flight.

Dehydration can cause dizziness and queasiness, so make sure to drink lots of water and juice while on board. Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake because this can make your skin dry.

• Put candy or crackers in your hand carry.

When you start feeling sick, you just eat these and you will feel better. Gums and ginger candy are recommended for those who have motion sickness.

• If you are suffering from diseases such as epilepsy or diabetes, always carry the name and contact number of your doctor in your bag.

This can save your life just in case you fall ill during a flight.

Malaysian Nationals with Biometric Passports Allowed for Visa-Free Entry to Japan Beginning July 1, 2013

Photo by Manuel Cosentino

Beginning July 1, 2013, Malaysian nationals holding biometric passports are now allowed to book flights to Japan without hesitation as entrance to the country without a visa is now permitted. This is after the government of Japan had signed the visa waiver agreement in celebration of the 40th ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

In a press release circulated by the Japan National Tourism Organization, it is said that the biometric passport should have an embedded microchip that complies with ICAO standards. Bearers of this passport may stay in Japan for not more than three months. If exceeding, applying for an appropriate visa is necessary.

Due to this development, the number of Malaysians who travel to Japan is expected to escalate.

Japanese Visa Waived for Thais and Malaysians

Japanese Visa Waived for Thais and Malaysians

Dealing with Travel Websites for Air Fare Deals and More

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM

With the advent of technology, a lot has changed. What people usually do manually may now be done in just a few clicks on the computer. With a well-functioning computer and a reliable internet connection, what we leave the house for in the past may be accomplished in a matter of few minutes and in the comfort of our homes; and that includes buying cheap flight tickets and planning tours.

In pursuit of adapting to the now-highly technical market, many travel agencies had set up their official websites. Through these homepages, they can reach out to the traveling public easier than before. Since most people nowadays are endowed with knowledge of the internet, marketing has become significantly simpler for agencies.

But with all the hoaxes roaming around the World Wide Web, many people have gone doubtful about the credibility of travel websites, particularly when money is involved. However, one just needs to conduct proper background checking to realize that legitimate travel websites are actually helpful to the traveling public.

One thing that makes travel websites of great assistance to people is that – as said – it simplifies everything. Instead of leaving the house and dealing with traffic, everything can be settled online. A few clicks, a few strokes on the keyboard; and the task is completed. Necessary proofs of the transaction can be sent through email, and there is no need to pick things up from places.

Furthermore, online transactions with travel agencies would allow people to land good deals. Usually, airline companies offer different promotions on air tickets through their partner agencies. Most of the time, these promotions are hailed as exclusive only to online customers.

If lucky, people can also spot different budget package tours advertised on the website – basically allowing them to save money without sacrificing the fun. Many travel agencies arrange tours to different wonderful places, concentrating on divulging their history, culture, and attractions to the tourists.

Dealing with travel agencies through their websites provides flexible payment options too. Aside from bank deposits and debit cards, most companies honor major credit cards; thereby assuring flexible payment options and easy transactions. As for trust issues, credible agencies do not disclose confidential details and do not do hideous scamming.

All in all, relying on travel websites would certainly allow people to land on great flights promotion. It might be a little doubtful at first, but it surely does great for the people who wish to travel the world once proven legitimate. Finding a credible travel agency is somehow easy though. Most of the time, these are those who have been in the business for years – and during that span of time have developed good professional relationships with big airline companies around the world.

Singapore Inbound Tourism Seen to Boost, Chinese and Indian Markets to be Tapped

Photo by Mike Enerio

  

SINGAPORE -  Inbound traffic of travelers, mainly from China and India, is expected to be the source of a huge boom in Singapore tourism for the next few years. This is after a recent survey shows that outbound tourism will slightly decline as many Singaporeans are quite contented already with the amount of travel they had gone through.

 

The survey showed that almost 7.3 million trips from Singapore were conducted since 2010; whereas in China, only 4 percent of the population had gone out of the country. India has 1 percent. These statistics had driven the authorities to assume that the two nations are proven lucrative markets, and are worth the tap.

 

Therefore, it is presumed that given that the industry will exert more effort to reach out to the Chinese and Indian markets, better inbound tourism will be in order. The trick is to lure travelers by opening more attractions that would cater to all age groups, and provide more opportunities for entertainment and fun for the people.

This is not exactly a difficult thing to do because Singapore has already been at it since day one. Spearheading the lists of attractions that travelers would buy air tickets for to see are Resorts World Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore, and Gardens by the Bay. The fact that Changi International Airport is one of the world’s best also contributes to its reputation.

 

Furthermore, Singapore promises particular attention to the various needs of travelers. Safety is the top-most priority, and that is basically what people from India, China, and other nations are after. 

 

Basically, this move does not just improve the number of tourist arrivals. It also strengthens tourist takings. Singapore hotels will particularly benefit from this – especially those hotels located in Little India and Chinatown – as travelers are expected to find a place to lodge while in the country.

 

Singapore, in spite of being a rather small nation, is indeed up for some spectacular leaps in inbound tourism for the next few years. It is totally equipped to cater to the needs of Chinese, Indian, and other nationalities. Though it is already ahead of others in the race, Singapore vows no stopping in furthering what it can give to people in terms of tourism. 

 

Celebrating Songkran Festival

Photo by Arisa Chattasa

On April 13-15, 2013, Thailand will be once again embraced with a festive atmosphere as the world-renowned Songkran Festival gets celebrated. It is an important event that locals and foreigners alike cannot get enough of it. This explains why Singapore to Thailand flights are selling like hotcakes nowadays. Songkran is basically the most fun and exciting festival in Thailand and everybody is invited to partake in this momentous celebration.

During this festival, the whole nation turns literally ‘watery’ and ‘wet’. Buddha images are bathed and young people visit the elders to perform the rod nahm dum hua ceremony wherein the young ones pour scented water on the hands of the elders as homage. 

In courtyards and monasteries, people also build sand replicas of stupas as part of the festival. They also set birds and fishes free.

But the fun begins when the locals and foreigners come out to the streets to splash water on each other. It’s a free-for-all water-throwing and it is customary to get wet. Armed with water guns, water hoses, and pails, people bond with each other in joy and exhilaration.

Photo by Lucas Mellec

Songkran Festival is basically observed in all parts of Thailand. But the best place to celebrate it is in the northern province of Chiang Mai where events are held close to mayhem. Nonetheless, peace is observed and everything is just done for fun. 

Photo by Abigail Keenan

It is best to book Thailand tours which coincide with Songkran Festival early to avoid hassles. There would be no hesitations for sure. It will only be fun.

Get to know more about how Thailand Celebrates Songkran Festival by checking out these resources:

* Highlight Thailand: The Rod-Nam-Dum-Hua Tradition

* Thai Buddhist: Building Sand Pagodas During Songkran

* Thailand Travel Online: Songkran Festival - Thailand New Year

* Travel Soon: Songkran Festival Thailand

* Thailand for Visitors

Hong Kong Ocean Park Milestone

source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

 

One should not be surprised if Hong Kong tours suddenly become more in demand these days. This is after Ocean Park authorities announced the birth of a king penguin in the park. It is a momentous event since it is the first of its kind to be born in Hong Kong.

Dr. Allan Zeman, Chairman of Ocean Park had recently stated that the newborn animal ambassador is doing well in its environment. It is thought to be highly curious as it goes around its habitat with its parents. Ample foods are given to the family, as well as various vitamins to keep it strong. The baby penguin is to stay in a safe zone where it can avoid constant disturbance from the onlookers. The said zone is also guarded by the team to make sure that the chick is kept safe as it still cannot swim.

The King penguin after 20 days. 

source: The Guardian

Definitely, the presence of the king penguin will attract travelers from major parts of the globe to Hong Kong. However, the birth of this lovely creature is not the lone reason why tours to Hong Kong are expected to double, and why there is a cause for celebration. Ocean Park has announced that in 2012, it recorded a total of 7.5 million visitors. 50% of which comes from China; 35% comprises local visitors, and the remaining 15% encompasses arrivals from other countries.

These record-high statistics are believed to be because of the completion of the Master Redevelopment Plan (MRP). Meaning, more facilities and attractions are opened to cater to the growing demands and needs of the tourists. 

It is not entirely a secret that Ocean Park Hong Kong is striving hard to provide its guests with the best kind of facilities. It is determined to retain its title as the first-ever Asian winner of the Applause Award, a prestigious recognition given to elite theme parks around the world. The head of the amusement park said that they owe gratitude to the people who have constantly patronized the beauty of Ocean Park.

Indeed, Hong Kong Ocean Park has gone a lot better with the birth of the king penguin, and the completion of its developments. Therefore, Hong Kong air tickets are expected to sell like hotcakes these days. Well, it’s not like it’s not a usual thing, right?

Tiger Airways Guarantee Better Transit Experiences at Changi

Image source: Travel Daily News Asia

Low-cost carrier Tiger Airways now assures hassle-free transit experiences for its passengers at the Changi International Airport. With this move, the airline company has set better standards for other budget airlines which said the airport had been servicing. This means better travel feats for many who have to fly through Singapore to other cities around the world.

Known as the TigerConnect, passengers with connecting flights at Changi are now permitted to obtain their onward boarding passes directly from the transfer desk at the transit area. Because of this, they can easily continue with their travel without the need to pass through immigration and baggage concerns.

The service, which is basically a part of the Changi Airport Groups’s (CAG) Changi Connects, will require passengers to pay SG$16 (US$13) per person. Budget travelers will surely find it affordable, considering the convenience it assures. Not going through the immigrations and baggage concerns is certainly a comfort for those who are just transiting through Singapore.

It is also stated that TigerConnect will be available not just to Singapore, but to 50 other destinations as well. It will also apply to the partner airline companies of Tiger Airways – Mandala Airlines and SEAir. Join itineraries with Scoot will also be offered, as well as an airport transfer feature.

According to Mandala Airlines President/Director Paul Rombeek , this will particularly benefit those coming from Indonesia as most of the flights to China, Australia, India, and others are transiting at the Changi International Airport in Singapore.

TigerConnect will be offered beginning February 1, 2013.  As a kick-off promo, there will be a 50% discount on connecting flights through selected routes booked from January 10 to 16 from its website.

Tiger Airways is the second LCC to offer this kind of development. Singapore-based Scoot Airlines has previously launched Scoot-Thru which is basically similar to the TigerConnect feature. It is also a program under Changi Connect.

This is definitely an exciting implementation from Tiger Airways and Changi International Airport. Aside from guaranteeing convenience, it will certainly allow passengers to save time and eventually grant them more chances to enjoy the features of the world-renowned airport while waiting for their flights. Hopefully, more and more budget airlines will follow the trend.

Travelling Free and Easy

Photo by Guilherme Stecanella

The concept of free and easy tour packages was developed by the tourism industry in order to provide travelers with the freedom of designing their own itineraries while grabbing the different money- and time-saving opportunities offered by many travel agencies.

 Putting it simply, the free and easy concept exempts travelers from a schedule designed by the agency. Without restraint, people can roam around places, on their own. They can go to places they wish to visit, see things they wish to see, and experiences feats they wish to experience. There is no need to worry about wasting money due to coming to attractions that they find boring.

Just a few tips though. When availing of free and easy tour packages, it is best to plan an itinerary prior to the trip. Touring a city impulsively could disregard the advantage of getting cheap flight tickets as it would definitely require tourists to spend way beyond the supposed budget.

 Learning the language used in the city to visit will be very helpful. Conversational phrases will surely come in handy when interacting with locals when, for example, trying to find the way to the subway station or asking where the payphone is. Remember, free and easy means independence. There is no tour guide to translate things, so better learn even just a bit of the language.

Going around the city in groups will be very beneficial for those who choose the free and easy tour package. While it is exciting and challenging to tour a foreign city alone, it sometimes gets boring and scary at times. Having companies will surely lighten up the mood and will make one feel safer and more at ease. Further, it is more fun to have someone to spaz things with.

Talking about security, it is best not to avail of free and easy tours when in doubt about the security implemented in the city to be visited. Remember, touring around in big groups is way much better and safer than getting around a place in smaller factions. Consider the travel warnings, and feel secure.

To avoid danger, it is also advised that the tourists tone their selves low. Flashy outfits could attract unwanted attention. Sporting so much jewelry could tempt robbers. Carrying big backpacks could encourage pickpockets. The hotel safes are there for reasons. If it is unavoidable to leave things behind, use smaller bags.

Yes to Safety Flights!

Photo by Daniel McCullough

Safety is the most important issue to press when flying. It is one of the major concerns of people who do flight bookings from time to time. However, the safety of a passenger does not just rely on the services of the airline company. The passenger, himself, has the obligation to do certain things that would assure his well-being while on board.

Here are some of the most typical things to remember:

1) Never leave things unattended

A bag left unattended can cause mayhem. It may be deemed suspicious as its unknown content could pose a threat to the people on the plane. Thus, it is important that people do not leave their things unguarded, or just anywhere. 

2) Do not bring deadly weapons or dangerous materials to the plane

Sometimes, security lapses can occur. Dangerous materials can be brought to the plane and it could cause pandemonium when found out. It is best not to bring these sorts of things on board as it would definitely frighten other passengers. 

3) Pay attention to the pre-flight orientation

Prevention is always better than cure; so it is best to listen to the rules and regulations implemented by the airline company which is to be discussed by the flight attendants prior to the flight. Safety precautions will also be explained; as well as the things to do in case of emergencies.

4) Store heavy baggage under the plane seat

Putting heavy things in the plane compartment can be risky. If the plane meets turbulence and the compartment is not locked, things could fall and eventually hurt the passengers. The best place to store these pieces of baggage is under the seat in front. 

5) Do not get drunk

Some airline companies allow their passengers to drink while on board but it is advisable not to get drunk to not make the other passengers uncomfortable. Sometimes, conflicts during flights are caused by too much intoxication. 

6) Buckle on!

Planes meet turbulences unexpectedly. No one can predict it, after all. That is why passengers must always remember to keep their seatbelts buckled. This will secure them on their seats and keep them safe in case the plane experience instability.

7) Listen to the flight attendants

Flight attendants are there not just to assist the pilots, but also to constantly remind the passengers of the different rules and regulations implemented by the company. For safety purposes, it is best to follow their orders. 

8) Always keep calm

Most of the time, panic is inflicted by paranoia. That is why, it is important to keep calm all the time. In case of emergencies, always listen to the instructions of the flight attendants to avoid pandemonium. 

Upon buying flight tickets, people are also given the responsibility to keep themselves safe from harm. That issue of safety does not just come from the company. It is a two-way process and passengers are expected to keep up with it, for their own satisfaction.

New Stopover Packages from Changi Airport, SIA and SilkAir

 

Aiming to provide better services to the people, Changi Airport Group (CAG) has renewed its ties with two top airline companies in Singapore, Singapore Airlines (SIA) and SilkAir. This rekindling of partnerships paves the way for the introduction of new stopover packages.

 

Until March 28, 2013, people can avail of exciting packages for cheap promotional rates which start from S$54 (US$44). Promos are applicable only to flights scheduled from October 1, 2012, to March 31, 2013.

 

Known as the Singapore Stopover Holiday packages, these offers cover good accommodations and complimentary transfers. Making it more exciting, there are also packages that offer unlimited SIA Hop-on Bus rides and free admission to 14 top Singapore attractions like the Singapore Flyer, MINT Museum of Toys, HiPPO Rivercruise, Singapore Zoo, and National Orchid Garden.

 

Basically, this move from CAG, SIA, and SilkAir will contribute immensely to the tourism industry of Singapore. According to Peh Ke-Wei, VP for Passenger Development of CAG, these packages will surely encourage travelers to experience Singapore and Changi Airport at their best.

70 New Airports for China by 2015

Photo by Keith Chan 

Within the next three years, China will be establishing 70 new airports as part of a large-scale plan to expand the aviation industry despite the economic slowdown.

As pointed out by Li Jianxiang, the head of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), this idea to build more airports in the country is based on its significant increase in the fleet – after settling a plan to buy more than 300 carriers in a span of five years.

Li added during the annual general meeting of IATA that aside from the plan to construct new airports, the old ones will be expanded and improved. This arrangement would give China more than 230 flight hubs by 2015, to cater to the 4,700 planes which are expected to be owned by the nation by then.

This ambitious move was set after IATA head Tony Tyler revealed that the global profits from airlines would most likely decrease due to the skyrocketing oil prices and various crises. Although the industry in the Asia Pacific is expected to receive a total of US$2 billion in gains, it is still less than half of the income received in 2011.

The group did not provide any prognosis to the Chinese market, especially since it has been a constant favorite of travelers and the Chinese people love travelling. However, the slowing economic growth of China (along with India) can be partly blamed.

In the first quarter of 2012, China’s economy raised only 8.1%. It is the slowest pace in three years.

More Filipinos Travel to Hong Kong and Singapore on 2012

Photo by Simon Zhu 

According to recent surveys, many Filipino tourists still prefer to travel to Hong Kong and Singapore for vacation and leisure. Thanks to the frequency of flights to the city offered by different airline companies, said Tim Tio, sales and outbound marketing manager of Travelite Travel and Tours Philippines.

Hong Kong received a 15.6-percent increase in arrival from the Philippines from January to July 2012. In 2011, it received 659,829 visitors. Singapore, on the other hand, has been visited by 677,681 Filipinos that year; and had served 154 flights, compared to the 148 which landed in Hong Kong.

It is the boosting tourism industries of Singapore and Hong Kong that are held responsible for the statistics. Hong Kong is very much known for its shopping culture which Filipino travelers truly take pleasure in. On the other hand, it is the Singapore attractions - Resorts World Sentosa and Universal Studios Singapore - which immensely contribute to the strong number of arrivals from the Philippines.

This kind of set-up is expected to continue especially with the opening of the Legoland in Johor Bahru (Malaysia), which is easily accessed from Singapore. Some travel agencies in the Philippines have begun to offer tours to the amusement park, which will cover transfers from a hotel in Singapore to Legoland, and back.

But if Singapore and Hong Kong are enjoying a great reception from Philippine tourists, Malaysia seemed to have experienced a drop in 2011. That is why Malaysia has prompted a more aggressive tourism program which includes product seminars in Manila, Clark, Cebu, and Davao. Positive results have been noted in June 2012 though.

Furthermore, new air links have been established by different airline companies originating from the Philippines to Malaysia. Airphil Express, Zest Air, and SEAir offered flights to the country earlier this year; while Cebu Pacific Air is set to launch flights from Cebu to Kuala Lumpur, come December.

Simple Tips to Get Cheap Air Fares

Photo by Suu Amran 

Nowadays, everybody would want to stay on budget. As the world’s economy continues to fluctuate, it is a must that people learn how to keep their expenses low. However, it does not always follow that cutting on a budget means denying oneself of the quirks of life, especially traveling. Taking a break is as necessary as being thrifty; and with that, cheap airfares are rendered as delightful treats.

But how to land these wonderfully economic deals?

1. Consider when to buy the tickets.

Usually, sales on airfares are held to introduce the promo and/or to clear the product. That is why many people are advised to buy early or buy late in order to enjoy the probable sales from travel agencies or airline companies. However, one just has to make sure that buying early or late will not cause conflicts in his travel plans.

2. Take advantage of the off-peak seasons and hours.

One needs not always find a sale to land on budget airfare deals. Sometimes, it depends on the travel date and the hour of the flight. Usually, flights scheduled during off-peak seasons (non-holiday periods) are cheaper compared to other dates. Also, flying during late hours like midnight to dawn could be way more inexpensive than when flying while the sun is up.

3. Weigh the options.

There are a lot of travel agencies offering nice and attractive airfare deals and package tours. However, is the price alright? Are the destinations interesting? Are the benefits worth it? All these questions should be answered satisfactorily for a choice to be good. It is then not bad to canvass options among different travel agencies. Who knows? There could be something better than what you plan to settle for.

4. Subscribe for discount notices.

It is not always that one has the time to check every travel agency for their most recent discount offers. That is why it is advised to sign up for newsletters and announcements from the company. This way, notices about great deals will be delivered personally. Online ticketing sites usually have this ‘Subscribe’ button which people can click so announcements can be mailed to their e-mail regularly.

5. Use points to cut airfares.

Most airline companies or travel agencies offer pointing systems to their loyal customers. These points, often called flier miles, may be used to pay for the air tickets. It is often as good as cash. This means one can pay cheaper prices, or not pay anything at all. 

6. Check the benefits of the deals.

Some flight promotions have this buy (quantity)-get (quantity)-discounted or free method. It is a great thing to take advantage of. People can pay less for their airfares when booking is done in groups. Also, discounts are given when tickets are for senior citizens or children.

Finding cheap flight promotions online is surely not as difficult as how it seems to be. There is always an online ticketing website of a respected travel agency to surely provide all the abovementioned deals.

Quick Facts about the 2012 London Olympics

After four years of enthusiastic anticipation (and thousands of air tickets to London sold), the 2012 London Olympics has finally set to light the torch at the Olympic Stadium.


Although some events had already started prior to the opening ceremony, the excitement didn’t die down a bit. So to heighten it up, why not learn some quick facts about the 2012 London Olympics, and the whole sports competition, itself?

• The Olympics is believed to originate from Ancient Greece but the truth is no one knows where it had started. The most popularly accepted legend though was that it was started by Heracles, a Roman and Greek mythology character 



• During ancient times, the Olympics served as the symbol of peace as joining cities would set aside their feuds and wars just so they could compete properly


• The term ‘gymnasium’ was derived from the Greek word ‘gymnos’ which means nude. This was used because the participants in ancient Olympics were required to complete their events with their clothes off


• During the Olympics in 1900, there were only a few spectators who attended the event. (Perhaps, the airfares were too high?)


• At least one of the colors of the Olympic rings is used in every national flag in the world


• During the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, the gold medals were really made out of pure gold

• The tradition of holding opening ceremonies for the Olympics started with the London Olympics in 1908


• London has been host to the Olympics three times already: 1908, 1948, and the present, 2012


• The 2012 London Olympics is also referred to as the Games of XXX Olympiad, and London 2012


• So far, London is the only city in the United Kingdom to have hosted the Olympics


• The oldest torchbearer ran a 12,000-km distance without her cane for the 2012 London Olympics. She is Diana Gould, 100 years old



• Olympic mascots were first used in the summer of 1972 after it was approved by the International Olympic Committee in Munich, Germany


• Almost four billion people were expected to grab air tickets to London to watch the events


• For the Opening Ceremonies of the 2012 London Olympics, the stadium will be transformed into a British countryside – complete with meadows, fields, rivers, and even herds of sheep. The production is entitled The ‘Isles of Wonder’ and is directed by award-winning directors Danny Boyle and Stephen Daldry


• There will be a total of 205 nations participating in the 2012 London Olympics

The 2012 London Olympics is a remarkable event for everybody as it is another manifestation of the unity which binds the different nations in the world.

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How to Stay on Budget when in Beijing

Photo by Ling Tang 

Contrary to the belief of others, it is definitely not a difficult thing to go around Beijing, China without shedding so much cash. Spending a fortune and making the most out of the experience when in this beautiful city could be rendered as an option as long as you know what to do. And mind you, the list of tips on keeping your trip to Beijing low-budget and worth it does not end after you purchase cheap air tickets.

Here are the top three suggestions to make your flights to Beijing really economical:

      STAY AT BACKPACKERS' INN

Photo by zhang kaiyv

If you can go on without too much luxury in terms of accommodation, why not grab the chance? Sure, there are a lot of opulent hotels in Beijing and each offers very tempting packages. But there are also a lot of simple dormitories and inns around the city which provide the same comfort and security. Although it would require more effort in finding nice and cheap places, at least it would save you from paying a lot for a place you would most likely see only during the night.

      SETTLE FOR CHEAPER FOOD

Photo by zhang kaiyv

First-class restaurants are abundant in Beijing; but if you want to stay on budget, skip those lavish places and resort to the clean canteens and street food stalls around the city. The presentation of the meals may not be as pretty, but the taste of food sold in those smaller establishments could totally rival those in classy ones.

      PLAN AN ITINERARY BEFORE THE TRIP

Photo by Clay Banks

Being impulsive will surely make you spend more money. Thus, you should design an itinerary prior to your tour around the city. Plan ahead and find the places where entrance fees are cheap, if not free; and if possible, categorize these destinations according to their place so you won’t have to pay so much for transportation.



It is easy to stay on a budget as long as you want it. So buy those air tickets and do not hesitate about your trip. Just relax and enjoy.