Leny Parker's Blog

12 flight booking hacks that will guarantee you the cheapest tickets

Every frequent traveler has their own tricks for booking the best and cheapest flight possible.

Luckily, some were willing to share their secrets on a Quora thread that asked, "what are the best flight booking hacks?"

Keep scrolling for some tips and tricks that may make all the difference.

1. Look at all your options.

Quora user Saran Udayakumar, who has 45,000 miles in the sky under his belt, says that when he's booking flights he makes sure to check travel search engines like Kayak, Priceline, and Skyscanner, as well as airlines' websites.

2. Don't be opposed to layovers.

This may seem like an obvious one, but nonstop flights are typically more expensive than flights with layovers. So if you're looking for the cheapest possible option, Udayakumar says to consider booking a flight with a layover.

3. Clear your cookies or open an incognito tab before booking.

According to Udayakumar, travel agencies and airlines often use your computer's cookies to determine what kind of flight you're interested in booking. Once they discover what you're looking for, they'll often raise prices accordingly.

4. Book a connection you know you're not going to make.

This hack is better suited for risk takers, as it involves gambling with airlines. Udayakumar suggests booking a cheap flight with a super short connection time that's almost impossible to make.

5. Don't only rely on big-name airlines when flying internationally.

According to Quora user Patrick Keane, a frequent flyer with Star Alliance and a Lufthansa eXperts member, some airlines you probably haven't heard often offer the cheapest fares for transatlantic flights.

6. Fake your computer's IP address to fudge your location.

Flight prices differ widely from country to country, says Quora user and avid traveler Anya Mary. Often fares are cheaper in countries with lower living standards, so pretending you're booking from, say, India, instead of the US, can make all the difference.

7. Book a flight with a layover that's actually your end destination.

Quora user Gaurav Srivastava refers to this hack as "hidden city ticketing." Here's the example Srivastava uses to explain the trick: Say you're flying from New York to Chicago and you find a cheap flight that goes from New York to Kentucky, but with a layover in Chicago (chances are a flight like this will be cheaper than a nonstop flight from New York to Chicago). Book that flight and then just disembark in Chicago (don't board the connecting flight to Kentucky).

8. Look out for "fifth-freedom flights."

Srivastava explains that the "fifth freedom refers to the right for an airline to carry revenue traffic between two foreign countries as part of a service connecting the airline’s home country."

9. Book an early flight when you can.

Turns out waking up at the crack of dawn for an early flight is worth it. Quora user Dan Birchall highlights a few reasons why.

10. Consider booking one way tickets and flying into and out of different cities.

While booking a round trip ticket in and out of the same city might seem like the easiest, most logical way to go, Quora user Jeff Mccoy says that it's not always the cheapest. Sometimes, booking two one way tickets that arrive in and depart from different cities can save you a lot of money.

11. Search for one-person flights even if you're booking for multiple people.

If the first search you perform for a flight is for multiple seats, the airline might hike up prices, McCoy says. So instead, start by searching for a flight for just one person, and look into booking for multiple people later.

12. Use Points Loyalty Wallet to trade and/or buy points and miles.

"Trading or buying a few extra miles might be all you need to earn a travel reward," McCoy says. Points Loyalty Wallet lets you do both of those things, and it's worth checking out.

Introduction

Singaporeans moan that besides shopping, dining and the movies, there's not a lot you can do here. Ignore them. The must-see list for the one-day visitor to Singapore, especially the first-timer, is absorbingly long. There is very little chance you'll get bored. Most tourists tend to gravitate first towards the famed retail stretch of Orchard Road. Fine, get your fix of bold-faced names like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and every other couture label under the sun. When you've gotten that out of your system, dump your purchases back at the hotel and head out into the 'burbs where the real charm of Singapore lies. We're here to guide you to the top 10 places where tourists don't normally go; in short, the places where Singaporeans in the know live and play.

1. Singapore Botanic Gardens

So, you've arrived. It's early and nothing really opens for business until around 11 a.m., so how are you going to kill time? Slip on the trainers and head out to the Botanic Gardens (open 5 a.m. to midnight). At this time of the day, downtown Singapore's last remaining green lung is a cool, bucolic retreat filled with joggers, dogs and tai-chi practitioners. Wander through the swaths of virgin rainforest (the main boardwalk through it is entered from Upper Palm Valley Road) and then take in the National Orchid Garden's many-colored collection of 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids. When you're done, drop into the food court near Tanglin Gate for a traditional local breakfast of soft-boiled eggs, coffee and toast slathered with coconut jam.

2. Artwork at the Ritz-Carlton

It may seem a little strange to head to a hotel to look at artwork, but the Ritz-Carlton is no ordinary hotel. The massive three-ton Frank Stella installation at the entrance and the pair of Dale Chihuly crystal glass sculptures that anchor both wings of the building kick off one of Southeast Asia's finest (and under the radar) collections of modern and contemporary art. The majority of the pieces were specially commissioned for the public spaces and guest suites. The treasures on view include Andy Warhol and David Hockney's exuberant colors, Rainer Gross's geometric compositions, Henry Moore's restrained monochromatics and the lush botanicals of Robert Zakanitch. It's all free to view, and you even get an iPod-guided tour.

3. Chinatown Heritage Centre

Let the other tourist hordes charge over to the newly minted Peranakan Museum or the gloomy Asian Civilisations Museum. If you do only one cultural thing during your 24hour Singapore layover, it must be a tour of the unheralded Chinatown Heritage Centre, where entire sets of bedrooms, kitchens and street scenes from the late-19th century and early-20th century have been faithfully recreated. It's an authentic slice of Singapore's history that's made all the more fascinating by the gleaming skyscrapers just a few blocks away. And if you must, pick up a kitschy souvenir from the gift shop on your way out.

4. Plastic Surgery

In case you missed the memo, the place for plastic surgery is Asia. While many people head to Bangkok and Seoul for assorted nips and tucks, the locals make a beeline for the ultra-swish, Richard Meier–designed Camden Medical Centre. You may not have time for a full makeover, but squeeze in a spot of Botox or a non-surgical facelift with local celebrity surgeon Woffles Wu. And then adjourn downstairs for snapper pie and Pavlova at Whitebait & Kale.

5. Electronics for Cheap

Tokyo may have the latest in electronic gadgets, but Singapore has the widest range, and luckily for the time-pressed shopper, they're all clustered in two massive multistory emporia. Handicams, portable DVD players, mobile phones, hi-tech cameras, MP3 players and laptops in just about every imaginable configuration are up for grabs at Funan Digitalife Mall and Sim Lim Square. The prices are usually about 10% to 20% cheaper than at other commercial outlets. At Sim Lim Square especially, good deals can be had with some serious haggling, and many retailers will knock off a few extra dollars if you pay in cash.

6. Haji Lane

This tiny lane, hidden away in the heart of the Muslim quarter, is a fashionista's paradise. With very little fanfare, the collection of narrow shop-houses have, in less than a year, been transformed into an aggressively hip retail stretch recalling Le Marais in Paris or New York's Meatpacking District. Know It Nothing is a stylish industrial space that stocks beautifully tailored dress shirts stitched with silver skull buttons by Japanese label Garni. Next, pop into Pluck for its shabby chic collection of Austin Powers– inspired cushion covers and a cute ice-cream parlor. A few doors down, Salad boasts a range of home accessories like laser-cut table mats and Hong Kong–based Carrie Chau's quirky postcards. If you're feeling peckish, have an authentic Middle Eastern lunch around the corner at Cafe le Caire.

7. The Singapore Flyer

The 165-meter-high Flyer is Singapore's answer to the London Eye. For the moment, it is the world's largest observation wheel (that title will go to Beijing when its version opens in 2009). Despite much fanfare and hype, the locals have never really taken to the Flyer, grousing that it's too far from anywhere (it's not) and S$29.50 is a lot of money to pay for a 30-minute ride. Lucky you, since this means you'll almost never have to wait in line. The best time to hitch a ride is at dusk when the entire row of downtown skyscrapers is softly lit. Back on the ground, head for a dinner of chili crabs at Seafood Paradise.

8. The White Rabbit

Back in the '50s, Dempsey Hill was home to the British Army. These days, the former barracks, set amidst lush jungle, have been transformed into a fine collection of restaurants, bars, art galleries, epiceries and spas. Recently, the long abandoned garrison church was reopened as the White Rabbit, a restaurant and bar serving up Euro comfort food. After extensive renovations, its lofty interiors are now a mood-lit bolt-hole that heaves with tout le monde. When people aren't busy air-kissing and waving to one another across the crowded dining space, they're tucking into chef Daniel Sia's cleverly re-imagined classics, like macaroni and cheese drizzled with truffle sauce and a deconstructed Black Forest cake. After dinner, head up the hill for a chilled mojito at Margarita's.

9. Geylang

Once upon a time, Bugis Street was Singapore's premier red light district (and forever immortalized in Peter Bogdanovich's Saint Jack), but the crown has long since passed to Geylang, an atmospheric quarter on Singapore's east coast that bristles with great period architecture, leggy street walkers and some of the best local food on the island. On offer is a greedy grab of Peranakan, Indian, Malay and regional Chinese standards including the coconut rice and curry chicken at Bali Nasi Lemak, spicy noodles with roast pork and prawns at Kuching Kolo Mee and the Hakka favourite of rice, vegetables, tofu and peanuts in a tea-based broth at Lei Cha Fan.

10. Zouk

Despite its prim, straight-laced reputation, Singapore's nightlife is actually quite racy, though compared to Barcelona or New York, the party ends early (around 3 a.m.). After nearly two decades, Zouk is still the throbbing heart of the action. The pulsating institution is a strobe-lit, rambling warren of dance floors, figure-hugging outfits, swagger and seasoned moves. For many of the pretty young hipsters here, it's a rite of passage. If it isn't enough to satisfy your urge to groove, drop into the mammoth Ministry of Sound for a quick shimmy. 

Singapore, in Malay, means “Lion City,” but it could also be called “Asia light.” There’s nowhere else where you can experience Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures in such clean surroundings with an excellent public transportation system and hotels that meet Western standards. In addition, English is on the tongues of the locals and in the text of public notices and signs. It’s a convenient consequence of having once been part of the British Empire. For those reasons and many others, Singapore was declared the top travel destination of 2015.

Getting There

As a major Southeast Asian hub, Singapore offers easy travel by air, land, or sea from many cities around the world.

By Air

After you deplane, you’ll understand why Changi International Airport often receives accolades as the best airport in the world.

• Need to relax after your long airline trip? Lie down at one of the many of the full-body massage loungers available in the airport, or watch satellite programming from a video stations.

• Get started on your shopping or catch a bite at over 300 retailers and restaurants.

• Commune with nature by visiting gardens showcasing orchids, cacti, sunflowers, and more.

• Watch films at a movie theatre, play video games on the entertainment deck, or let the kids loose on one of several playgrounds on-site.

These amenities are yours to enjoy even before you pass through immigration and customs. More fun awaits in the public areas, including the city’s tallest indoor slide and an aviation gallery with interactive displays.

The quickest way into town from Changi is on the Singapore MRT (Mass Rapid Transit). If you’re part of a group or toting lots of luggage, a taxi can be more convenient. Yet a third, and inexpensive, alternative is public bus 36. Also, if you have no luggage, you can take a free shuttle to the Changi Business Park.

By Land

Because Singapore rises from an island on the southern tip of the Malay peninsula, most land travellers arrive through the Woodlands checkpoint at the Causeway in the north. Another entry point is through Tuas in the west.

• Long-distance buses are readily available, although no central bus terminal exists. In general, more money means a faster and more luxurious ride.

• If a train is your preferred transport, you can disembark at the Woodlands for immigration checks.

By Sea

The city’s island location makes it a popular cruise stop for major international cruise lines. Star Cruises offers several itineraries to points across Southeast Asia.

• Ferries to and from Malaysia and Indonesia dock at five ferry terminals, all of which have MRT or bus access to the city.

Essential Resources

The following lists some essential information you can use on your visit. If you have additional questions, find answers either on-line or in-person at the Singapore Tourism Board. Its visitors centres at Changi and several locations in town can help with Singapore hotel room reservations, attraction tickets, and tour bookings. They also offer free Wi-Fi.

History

Although the island was familiar to sailors as early as the third century A.D., legend has it that a local prince on a hunting trip founded the city in the 14th century after he encountered a lion-like animal. The less-romantic tale has the city being established as a trading port by Sir Stamford Raffles, then Lieutenant-Governor of what is now Bengkulu in western Sumatra.

The city prospered until 1942 when it fell to the Japanese, who remained in power until 1945. In 1946, Singapore became a Crown Colony that then merged with Malaysia in 1962. In 1965, the city separated from Malaysia to become an independent nation.

Climate

Located near the equator, Singapore basks in a tropical climate. Temperatures do not change much throughout the year, averaging 31 degrees Centigrade with a dip to 23 degrees at night. Expect rainfall nearly every afternoon and evening. November is the wettest month of the year, and February, the driest.

The monsoon seasons run from December to March and June to September, bringing with it thunderstorms that usually last under half-an-hour. However, the humidity can get so high that it can steam up your sunglasses when you walk from an air-conditioned bus to the sidewalk.

Getting Around

You’ll get around easily using the city’s public transportation system.

The extensive MRT puts most popular destinations within easy reach. You can buy a ticket for each trip, a top-up EZ-Link card that you swipe at entry gates, or a Tourist Pass that grants unlimited travel for one to three days. The trains are accessible to those in wheelchairs, dragging rolling luggage, or pushing strollers.

Taxis, which are scrupulously regulated, can take you where the subway doesn’t. Drivers must be Singaporeans who are at least 30 years old, speak basic English, and hold a vocational license. The meters tally a standard fare, but drivers can add surcharges, such as for travel during peak hours or after midnight, coming from the airport or travelling within the Central Business District, or using a credit card. You can ask the driver for an estimate of the cost before starting your trip. Then, get a receipt when you reach your destination.

The extensive bus system also accepts the EZ-Link card and, in many cases, the Tourist Pass. Otherwise, provide exact change to obtain a ticket when you board. You need a separate ticket for any of the private Hop-On/Hop-Off double-decker buses that ply the main tourist attractions, providing driving tours.

Two companies handle commuting down the Singapore River. Their open-air bumboats run at 15-minute intervals during rush hour and 30-minute intervals at other times. Singapore River Cruise accepts EZ-Link and also has 40-minute cruises. With River Explorer, you can pay by the trip or spring for a day pass.

What to See

Each of Singapore’s neighbourhoods provides accommodations, eateries, shops, and sights of interest to any tourist. Pick any community to use as a home base, knowing that the rest of the city is within easy reach.

Orchard Road

If shopping for global brands is high on your To-Do list, then stay along the 2.2 kilometres of Orchard Road, the city’s most famous shopping thoroughfare. The temples, markets, and shop houses of the past have long-disappeared from to be replaced by glitzy hotels, cavernous eating complexes, and modern shopping centres. Choose the right accommodations and you’ll never have to venture into the heat of the sun. Just take underground passages to go from your room to different malls.

ION Orchard is one of the area’s prime commercial meccas. The undulating glass facade and dedicated MRT stop easily distinguish it from competitors. Inside, you can browse through eight levels of luxury brands, including the largest Sephora store outside of France.

Take a break with Ion Sky, a viewing deck that’s 218 metres above street level. Its BEHOLD telescopes augment what you’re seeing with day and night views, historical pictures, and explanatory text. You can also descend to the basement level for a place at the 700-seat Food Opera, featuring a cast of 22 food stalls and four mini restaurants.

For more formal dining, Les Amis satisfies with classical French cuisine and over 2,000 wines, mostly from the Burgundy and Bordeaux regions. The restaurant has received numerous awards from the Forbes Travel Guide, San Pellegrino, and The Miele Guide. At Crystal Jade Golden Palace, you’ll most likely encounter a queue for its Hong Kong-inspired dim sum, while the Basilico Restaurant emphasises seasonal Italian fare either a la carte or in a buffet.

Colonial District

Most tourists remain within the confines of the Colonial District because it contains many of the city’s primary attractions.

The National Museum of Singapore, which is the city’s oldest museum, is a must-see introduction to local history and culture. About six minutes on foot to the northeast lies the Singapore Art Museum, which collects modern and contemporary works from around the region. Nearby, stop for a drink at the Long Bar at Raffles, where the Singapore Sling was invented. Continue about a kilometre south to the Asian Civilisations Museum, a repository for materials from China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and West Asia.

Shadowing the riverbank is Clarke Quay, where historical warehouses have transformed into trendy restaurants and dance spots. Coriander Leaf Bistro, for example, delights patrons with dishes from India, Japan, Thailand, and the Middle East. Among nightclubs, Zouk tops the list by showcasing international DJs, as well as themed rooms. Other riverside haunts include the more laid back Robertson Quay to the west and Boat Quay across the river, known for its traditional Chinese shop houses, which have become pubs and eateries.

Another waterside locale is Marina Bay, which takes pride in the futuristic architecture of its buildings. The Sands Skypark towers over other skyscrapers and features an infinity pool and unmatched views of the city. Blossoming below are the 101 hectares of Gardens by the Bay. This centre for plant life hosts Mediterranean and subtropical flowers, as well as a cloud forest under gigantic glass atrium domes. If you’re not afraid of heights, walk among the 50-metre high steel treetops of the Supertree Grove. For even higher views of the city and the bay, Level 33 calls itself the world’s highest urban craft brewery from its perch atop the Marina Bay Financial Centre.

Chinatown

If you look beyond the hipster bars and fashion boutiques of Chinatown, you can still find tea houses and apothecaries in the historic shop houses remaining there.

The Maxwell Road Hawker Centre is considered by many to be the best food court in the city. Locals know that of its 100 stalls, the ones with the longest lines serve the best dishes. You can wait up to 45 minutes for some Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice or the thick and satisfying Zhen Zhen Porridge, made from rice and your choice of meat.

If you’d rather feed your spirit, visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, where ornate and colourful statues guard its revered treasure. The website features live streaming of services for those who’d like a look before making the trip.

To soothe your body, try some traditional balms, ointments, and oils produced at Chop Wah On, which was established in 1916.

Tea Chapter, which was once visited by Queen Elizabeth II, can educate you on the finer points of Chinese tea appreciation and sell you teas online or at its store.

Little India

Little India started in the 1840s as a horse race course. The pastime eventually gave way to the cattle and dairy trade, which was managed by Indian workers. When the animal trade declined, the workers remained to build commercial establishments, residences, and temples.

The ornate Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, the most famous place of worship, is dedicated to the Destroyer of Evil. Although built in 1881, it’s surprisingly not the oldest Hindu place of worship in the city. That distinction belongs to the Sri Mariamman Temple, which came up in 1827 and is located in Chinatown.

If jet lag is keeping you awake at midnight, search for bargains at the Mustafa Centre, which is open 24 hours a day and sells jewellery, household appliances, clothing, electronics, and supermarket goods.

The Banana Leaf Apollo is only open for 12 hours a day. It serves favourites like Fish Head Curry, Chicken Masala, and Garlic Naan (a flat bread) and serves meals on banana leaves instead of plates.

Kampung Glam

The Malay word for village is kampong, which clues you in that Kampong Glam was the old Malay district. The Gelam(Paperbark) tree, which was important to shipping, once grew here in abundance. The neighbourhood attracts the followers of Islam from such national origins as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Middle East as well as tourists of every religion.

For an overview of the area’s history and culture, visit the Malay Heritage Centre, which displays interactive exhibits in the former residence of a sultan.

The golden domes of the Sultan Mosque beckon the Muslim faithful to prayer five times a day. You’re welcome to take a tour with multilingual docents, but you must remove your shoes and, if you’re not properly attired, borrow a robe at the counter.

One of the local specialities is murtabak, a doughy flat bread filled with mutton or chicken, egg, and onion, and served with a side of curry sauce. Watch it being made on the ground floor of Singapore Zam Zam, or eat an order on the air-conditioned second floor. The long waits match the eatery’s longevity. It’s been around since 1908.

Northern Singapore

The green nature preserves of Northern Singapore offer respite from the centre’s steamy concrete sidewalks and crowded shiny skyscrapers. The Central Catchment Nature Reserve is the largest in the country, ranging over 2,000 hectares of forest. Forest trails, boardwalks, and a Treetop Walk let you experience the flora and fauna with minimal impact.

Most travellers to the area end up at one or more of these three animal parks.

• The Singapore Zoo allows rain-forest creatures to wander their natural habitats but remain safely separated from visitors by ravines and moats.
• The River Safari focuses on animals from six world rivers, including the Ganges, Congo, and Mississippi. Two giant pandas, gifted by China, make their home here.
• The Night Safari is open only in the evenings so you can marvel at nocturnal creatures from Asia and

Africa.

Public transportation in Northern Singapore is spotty and time-consuming. The most efficient way to travel is by taxi. If you’re only heading for the zoos, Safari Gate offers dedicated bus service from several city hotels.

Sentosa Island

Deserving a weekend on its own, Sentosa Island is a resort island featuring attractions, hotels, restaurants, and a casino. Although you can reach it on foot, by bus, or by light rail, the most unique method is to take the Singapore Cable Car, which balances on a cable held up by high towers. Getting around the island means taking a bus that plies circular routes, or the beach tram that travels on the sandy shores.

Three attractions will please admirers of the life aquatic. The S.E.A. Aquarium displays over 100,000 marine animals in 49 different habitats. Adventure Cove is a water park that immerses you in a coral reef or tropical grotto. To personally interact with Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, participate in one of the programs at Dolphin Island.

The island’s largest attraction is Universal Studios Singapore, the Southeast Asian version of theme parks located in Hollywood and Orlando in the USA and Osaka, Japan. One ticket gets you into all the rides and shows in seven zones, including Hollywood, Ancient Egypt, and Sci-Fi City.

Other sights on the island include a 24-hour casino, beaches, historical forts, a trapeze school, and an evening water and light show. To avoid having to take out your purse at each point, buy a day pass to save time and money.

Events

Singapore’s many cultures promise a year full of varied festivals and activities. If you plan on visiting during these events, you’ll score the best accommodations only if you book far in advance.

First Quarter

Traditional festivals crowd January through March, but because their timing depends on lunar or non-Western calendars, their dates are never fixed.

• Chinese New Year brings out parades, fire crackers, and family feasting. Homes and offices burst with lanterns, ribbons, and symbols based on the Chinese zodiac animal that’s being honoured for the year.
• Thaipusam is marked by a large and colourful procession to honour Lord Subramaniam, the ever-merciful god. Celebrants spend the month before consuming a strict vegetarian diet to help free the mind of material need and release the body from physical pleasures.
• Art Week celebrates the visual arts with nine days of fairs, exhibitions, and gallery openings, which are attended by artists from 29 countries. The festival commissions special projects designed to explore local art.

Second Quarter

April to June sees the number of visitors soar as they attend international events set in Singapore.

• During the Dragon Boat Festival, teams of 22 rowers from around the world paddle furiously in long, narrow boats that are beautifully decorated with dragon heads. Mesmerising drumbeats spur their path to ultimate victory.
• The Great Singapore Sale offers two months of deals on every imaginable consumer product. Check out the website for a list of participating merchants and their offerings.
• The World Street Food Congress brings up to 40 street food masters, and thousands of aficionados, to a gathering of treats from hawker stalls, street carts, and food trucks. A panel of speakers present on topics, such as the importance of street food and the challenges of operating a hawker stall.

Third Quarter

The secular and the sacred get their due from July to September.

• National Day celebrates the country’s independence with a major parade, flags, performances, and a fireworks display.
• The Singapore Grand Prix thrills crowds with nightly races of Formula 1 cars on the streets of the city. Spectator packages can include grandstand seats, pit passes, and hotel suites.
• Feasting and new fashions highlight Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the end of Ramadan and its dawn-to-dusk fasting. Among the special dishes brought out for the festivities are rice cakes, spicy beef stew, and chili paste.

Fourth Quarter

October to December is not just about Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

• Deepavali is the Hindu celebration of good over evil, heralded by the lighting of oil lamps. Residential doorways receive colourful pictures that are painstakingly created with rice, flour, or petals.
• ZoukOut is the world’s only sunrise beach festival and is held at Sentosa Island’s Siloso Beach. An expected crowd of 40,000 dances to the electronic music performed by over 20 international and local artists.
• From mid-November to the end of December, Christmas On A Great Street decks Orchard Road with decorated trees and thousands of lights. Staged areas encourage photography with visitors who can then share their efforts on social media.

Singapore is South East Asia’s most prosperous city and smallest nation by land area. In recent years, newly developed mega-attractions and casino driven integrated resorts had transformed this “all work” economic powerhouse into one of the region’s most popular destinations for leisure travel.

Because of its compact size, Singapore is very easy to travel and generally safe. It is a top choice for first-time international travel, family trips, and those seeking to indulge in metropolitan luxuries. While costs are significantly higher than the rest of Southeast Asia, a lot of people continue to visit Singapore because of its unique and top-notch attractions that cater to almost every type of traveler.

I honestly didn’t expect to travel to Singapore as often as I have, considering the high number of seemingly more “exotic” and adventurous destinations elsewhere in the region. Singapore was just too irresistibly accessible with so many direct flights to other cities all over the region as well as convenient land crossing to Kuala Lumpur, another popular international gateway, in Malaysia. Singapore was a worthwhile jump-off point to Southeast Asia and a fitting “last stop” for indulging in urban comforts before the journey home.

Top Things to See and Do

Merlion Park — Pretty hard to miss anyway because of its prominent location at the mouth of the Singapore River. Not only could you get a good photo with the Merlion statue, Singapore’s most iconic monument, but there are amazing views to be seen of the Singapore Skyline, Marina Bay Sands, The Esplanade: Theatres by the Bay, and the Singapore Flyer.

Singapore Riverside and Civic District — this relaxing promenaded riverside area is a short walk away from the Merlion Park. Take a stroll down memory lane and get acquainted with the city’s early development and colonial history. A happening nightlife scene can be experienced at Clark and Boat Quay. Chinatown — Experience Singapore’s multi-cultural diversity by taking a walking and food tour of Chinatown. Visit a church, a mosque, Indian and Chinese temples all in one walk. Go on a food adventure and try dishes from Singapore’s different cultural influences at affordable hawker centers of Chinatown.

Marina Bay — Marvel at Singapore’s new urban cape by taking a walk around Marina Bay. Visit Marina Bay Sands, the Helix Bridge, Singapore Flyer, and Esplanade: Theatres on the bay. Amazing overlooking views can be seen from the sky park of Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer.

Gardens by the Bay — an ambitious project set to transform Singapore from a “Garden City” to a “City in a Garden.” The main attractions here are the 25 towering man-made Super trees and two equally extraordinary bio domes.

Singapore Zoo — an impressively maintained zoo where you can find a wide array of animals from around the world. The River Safari is also worth checking out.

Sentosa Island — spends a fun day on rides and themed attractions or relax at the beaches of Sentosa. The island is home to Universal Studios Singapore, the first theme park of its kind to open in Southeast Asia and the second in Asia after Universal Studios Japan.

Unique itineraries enable travellers to explore the lush natural jewel of Southeast Asia

Bespoke travel experts Experience Travel Group are excited to launch their first programme of holidays to the beautiful island of Borneo. Despite being the world’s third largest island, Borneo is still relatively undiscovered by tourists and has much to offer. Shared by Indonesia, Brunei and Malaysia, the island boasts dramatic landscapes, breathtaking beaches and is a must-see for all wildlife lovers – a vast number of exotic species such as orangutans and pygmy elephants call it home. Having quietly designed holidays to Borneo for repeat clients for several years, Experience Travel Group has steadily built up an expert Borneo team and created the exciting new experiences that form the basis of the new full programme of Borneo holidays.

Experience Travel Group’s new Borneo holidays are truly bespoke, covering all bases from in-depth adventures around the whole island to highlights tours that combine astounding wildlife with exotic beaches and cultural hotspots. The following three tours demonstrate just some of the unforgettable experiences on offer.

Beach and Wildlife: The Classic

From £2,990 per person, including all accommodation, experiences, entrance fees, guides, transport, flights and a number of meals.

This 15-day itinerary enables travellers to explore the exotic flora and fauna of Borneo, while also allowing plenty of time to relax on its beautiful beaches. Visiting the states of Sabah and Sarawak, this holiday starts in the city of Kuching and finishes at the stunning Gaya Island Resort, taking in Bako and Mulu National Parks, Kota Kinabalu and the Kinabatangan River en route.  Highlights include getting up close to orangutans in Kuching and exploring the majestic Mulu caves. With accommodation in the best hotels included throughout, this trip takes visitors off-the-beaten track and into the wilderness, without compromising on comfort.

Borneo Adventure

From £2,650 per person, including all accommodation, experiences, entrance fees, guides, transport, flights and a number of meals.

A unique 16-day tour of Borneo with some truly magnificent adventures, this itinerary allows travellers to get a true feel for the depth and variety of Borneo’s wildlife, village life, culture and tradition. Highlights include a five-day adventure in Mulu National Park, incorporating the adventurous 11.5km ‘Headhunters Trail’, which follows the route taken by the Kayan headhunting parties as they launched raids on the Limbang people; scaling Mount Kinabalu; and exploring some of the world’s biggest caves. Accommodation ranges from traditional longhouses to basic lodgings during the treks, but there is a chance to relax in high-quality hotels too – especially at Pantai Dalit Beach, where the holiday concludes in very comfortable surroundings.

Borneo Encompassed

From £4,249 per person, including all accommodation, experiences, entrance fees, guides, transport, flights and a number of meals.

This three-week in-depth adventure takes in Borneo’s finest natural wonders and is as inspiring as it is relaxing. From traversing rainforests and cruising down rivers and mangroves to exploring caves and relaxing on sun-drenched islands, this itinerary has it all. Whether it’s hearing the call of gibbons, seeing orangutans swinging in the trees or spotting dolphins, travellers will be taken aback by the incredible wildlife throughout the trip. Highlights include a night safari in Tabin National Park and a trek through the stunning jungle of Danum Valley – and an optional visit to Selingan Island to learn about turtle conservation. Accommodation ranges from basic lodges to the stunning Bunga Raya Resort.

Find out more about Experience Travel Group’s new Borneo holidays here.

Experience Travel Group specialises in bespoke holidays for passionate travellers. Offering adventures in Sri Lanka, Maldives, Vietnam, Thailand, Burma, Laos, Cambodia, Borneo, Indonesia and India, Experience Travel Group expertly tailor-makes trips that enrich their clients’ travel experiences.

For more information about Experience Travel Group, please visit the website, or find out what the team has been up to recently by checking out their blog or Twitter page.

Regarded as THE summer event on the Algarve, Pine Cliffs annual gala promises guests a memorable evening of world-class entertainment and exquisite cuisine, and is perfectly timed to celebrate the hotel’s recent emergence from a multi-million pound transformation of its rooms and facilities, alongside the addition of the new contemporary Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites. Performing songs such as his platinum-selling break-though I Need a Dollar and the international smash hit Wake Me Up, the appearance of Californian-native Blacc reaffirms Pine Cliffs reputation as the Algarve’s premier resort, further cementing the destination’s appeal to sophisticated, discerning travellers.

Pine Cliffs is offering a special two-night Summer Gala Platinum Package from €1490 per room staying at Pine Cliffs Hotel in a Deluxe Resort View room (or from €1690 per suite staying at Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites). Available for stays between 5-7 August or 6-8 August, this package is based on two sharing, includes breakfast and two *Platinum Package tickets to the gala event. Email pinecliffs.reservations@luxurycollection.com or call +351 289 500 102. Visit summergala.pinecliffs.com to find out more and download an exclusive message about the event from Aloe Blacc here.

Pine Cliffs Beach Club Now Open for Alfresco Fun in Canary Wharf, London

For those searching for a taste of the Algarve closer to home this summer can also swing by the Pine Cliffs Beach Club in Canary Wharf’s Montgomery Square. Open each weekday from 11am to 11pm, the chic pop-up bar, run in partnership with award-winning travel specialist Quintessentially Travel, will transport work-weary Londoners to the sun-kissed Portuguese shores.

In the true spirit of The Luxury Collection, Pine Cliffs Beach Club brings a taste of the Algarve to London providing global explorers with authentic experiences that reflect the local spirit, lifestyle and design. The al-fresco Pine Cliffs Beach Club will offer a wide selection of chilled drinks including fine Portuguese wines, Pine Cliffs Resort’s signature white port cocktails, Moet Ice and Sagres beer. Throughout the summer, customers will also have the chance to win a holiday for two at the luxurious resort, including return flights and accommodation.

Regarded as one of Europe’s leading lifestyle destinations, Pine Cliffs enjoys a spectacular, unrivalled location on the Algarve coastline. Set across 72 hectares, the resort offers a wide range of luxurious accommodation options for couples, groups and families. There are exceptional leisure and sports facilities, with 11 different restaurants and bars, including the poolside seafood restaurant O Pescador; Beach Club on the golden shore of Praia Falésia; Piri Piri Steak House; and Zest, a new outlet offering guests an array of health-conscious drinks, snacks and dishes. In addition, the hotel features six swimming pools, Porto Pirata kids club, an Annabel Croft Tennis Academy, a nine-hole golf course with panoramic views, complemented by a world-class wellness and fitness offering comprising the new Serenity The Art of Well Being destination spa and Pine Cliffs Goes Active gym and health club, as well as numerous shops and boutiques.

Pine Cliffs Beach Club is located in Montgomery Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5JJ. Open throughout the summer until September, from 11am to 11pm Monday to Friday.

*The Pine Cliffs Summer Gala Platinum Package is available for a two night stay between 5-7 August or 6-8 August. Price is per room, based on two sharing and includes:

Bed and Breakfast accommodation at either Pine Cliffs Hotel from €1490 staying in a Deluxe Resort View room or Pine Cliffs Ocean Suite staying in a Resort View suite from €1690.

Two Summer Gala tickets, including welcome cocktail, gift, open bar at Yakuza and a buffet dinner.

Room upgrade, subject to availability; 10% off standard rate for any extra nights; 20% discount on golf.

A Diamond package is also offered from €1890 for Pine Cliffs Hotel accommodation or from €2090 for Ocean Suites accommodation respectively. This includes all of the above, though replaces the gala buffet dinner with a sit-down plated waiter service dinner.

All packages are available subject to availability.

Email pine cliffs.reservations@luxurycollection.com or call +351 289 500 102. Visit summergala.pinecliffs.com to find out more.

About Pine Cliffs Resort

Pine Cliffs Resort is owned by United Investment Portugal (UIP), part of the IFA Hotels & Resorts consortium based in Dubai. The Pine Cliffs Hotel, the Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites and the Pine Cliffs Residence properties within the Pine Cliffs Resort are managed by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, under The Luxury Collection brand.

One of Europe’s leading integrated luxury and family resorts, Pine Cliffs Resort has won numerous accolades since opening in 1992, including the Portugal’s Leading Family Resort award six times in the World Travel Awards and appearing twice on Condé Nast Traveller’s ‘Gold List’.

Pine Cliffs Resort offers extensive investment opportunities via its holiday ownership options and selection of luxury freehold properties, three of which include a guaranteed annual rental return of 5% net within the first 5 years: Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites, Pine Cliffs Suites & Pine Cliffs Residence.

The resort also offers extensive leisure facilities including a nine-hole golf course and the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy; 11 diverse restaurants and bars; the Porto Pirata Children’s Village; Serenity The Art of Well Being destination spa and Pine Cliffs Goes Active gym and health club; and numerous shops and boutiques. For more information on Pine Cliffs Resort, visit www.pinecliffs.com

About The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts

The Luxury Collection® brand is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble, recently surpassing 100 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 30 countries. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About Quintessentially Travel Established in 2010, Quintessentially Travel is the award-winning travel division of Quintessentially, the world’s leading members-only Lifestyle Management and Concierge Club.

As a standalone provider of tailor-made travel, their worldwide service is available to all; Quintessentially membership is not a pre-requisite, but a wild case of wanderlust is.

Quintessentially Travel enjoys unparalleled access to the finest experiences imaginable, anywhere in the world. Their unsurpassed travel portfolio enables them to cater to all personal requirements, arranging every single element of the trip; from meet and greets, flights, private charters, transfers, experiences, hotel and villa bookings, to yacht bookings, event access and private guided tours.

Whatever the occasion, be it a family holiday, the ultimate honeymoon, a solo adventure of a lifetime or unique corporate experiences, Quintessentially Travel offer everything in the world of luxury travel, for every moment in life.