Category Archives: freelance writing

How to use your Mobile whilst on the Road without it Costing you the Earth

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There aren’t many things that are as exciting as a road trip, packing your car and hitting the open road. You may deliberate on what to take with you when packing, but the chances are your mobile phone will definitely be in there so here are some tips to ensure you don’t come home to a nasty big phone bill.

Avoid Roaming Charges

If you intend flying overseas to do a road trip there, you want to avoid all those exorbitant roaming charges. Check your phone and make sure that it will work overseas. Verify with the provider to ensure that your phone is operable overseas.

Look at your phone plan to see how much is it going to cost to make phone calls or download some e-mails while traveling abroad. You may want to consider buying an international data or calling package. An international plan is a good investment and you simply need to call your provider and request a temporary plan that will work in your destination of choice.

Some Data Saving Tips

  • You may want to have a break from your mobile device while on a road trip where you basically just one to text one or two people to let them know you’re safe. You may buy a text package before leaving. There are service providers who will provide you with a global messaging package that starts at as little as $10 a month for 50 messages sent from any country.
  • When you pack for your road trip, make sure that your chargers and adapters are packed in your close-at-hand bag so that if your suitcase gets damaged or stolen you have these devices with you so you don’t have to resort to buying these accessories at the next stop you make where the costs to purchase them will be double your original price.
  • Did you know that you can save data in Google Maps? You don’t have to go into Google Maps each time you’re looking for navigation information. You may just download the area you need to visit in Google Maps and you will be saving so much data when navigating. This will save you a lot of data and it improves the experience if you’re traveling through a low reception area. To save a map to use offline, simply open Google Maps and find the place you want to save. Hit the bottom info bar and Download. Select the region’s size you want to save and name it.
  • Download your entertainment. Before you take off on your trip, download entertainment before you leave. One of the best ways to do this is to make use of free wi-fi hotspots wherever you can to save data. Download movies or your favorite music when you’re in a wi-fi area and set yourself up with some good entertainment for your road-trip. Also, all the best audio streaming apps offer ways to listen to music without having to stream them using your data. Spotify, for instance, allows you to download your playlist and with Google Play Music, as an example, you can download everything – playlists and radio.

Android phone users, for instance, can have some control over their data consumption because, with Opera Max, a compression app, you can actually save data surfing on the Internet. In the app, you’ll be shown which apps on your phone have the greatest data savings potential.

Know your Data Usage

A road trip is so exciting, but not if your Android or iPhone keeps running out of cellular data before your new data comes in each month. Before you can manage your phone’s data usage, understand how much data you have used by going to your Settings and looking at your Mobile Data Usage. By following these data saving tips you can ensure that you don’t run out of data while on a lonely road.

Ensure that you’ve got all the entertainment you want and the ability to still make contact with those at home about where you are and that you’re also safe.

 

Earn Money Whilst You Travel

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Packing up and jetting off somewhere can seem like a seriously unrealistic dream, but more and more people are managing to make it a reality. A lot of people may be fooled into thinking that you need to be rich to be able to take some time off to travel, but this really isn’t the case. Nearly anywhere you go in the world has wifi now and there are plenty of ways to earn money for traveling on the internet. So many people travel through taxis, but do not ensure whether their taxi is insured by uber taxi insurance or not. This could increase risks highly and cost you a lot, defeating the purpose of travelling. So as long as you have a laptop and an idea of what projects you could undertake to earn enough cash to keep you traveling for as long as possible.

Learn how to trade online

Learning to trade online can seem like an incredibly daunting task for someone who has no previous experience with the stock market – but it really doesn’t have to be. There are many online trading websites like CMC markets that will allow you to get started more or less straight away. Once you have signed up you will be able to trade in instruments like stocks and shares, forex, CFD’s and spreadbetting. Before you travel it may be worth opening up a practice account with an online stockbroker so that you can get used to the markets before you actually invest any cash. You can register online for trading accounts without having to make an initial deposit. Many of the online trading websites actually have mobile apps as well. This is vital for you to keep track of investments when you are unable to get to a laptop. Before you leave for your travels it is also worth learning how to set up stop losses and automatic buy orders. This will help you minimise losses if you are going to go off of the beaten track for a few days and you won’t be able keep checking on your investments.

Pick up some paid writing work

A lot of people don’t know this – but you don’t actually have to be an English graduate to pick up freelance writing work. If you are competent in English and able to write well thought out articles then you can easily pick up some writing work online. The two main broker websites that allow you to do this are Textbroker and Greatcontent. The way it works is that you register with them and you are then given a sample article to write. Once you have done this you will be given a rating. Each piece of work you write is rated, but it is common for you to keep the rating you were given at your initial assessment. You will then be able to log on and select any of the articles within your rating range. Once you have completed the article the client will either accept, reject or send back for revisions. You can easily build up relationships through the website with different clients who may give you private work – which can earn you a little bit extra.

Sell photos online

Chances are you looked up a few websites on your destination before you traveled there and the big secret to these websites is that the photos probably were not taken by the person who owns the website. Stock photos can be big business for some people and if you are traveling and snapping away any way you might as well make some money from your pictures. Websites like Shutterstock and Fotalia allow users to register and sell their pictures online to people looking to use them for their websites and blogs. Once you establish yourself and sell a few pictures you could even sell them privately by making a social media page or a quick website. As long as you take quality, clear pictures there will always be a market for them. You will need to remember that if you are going to sell your pictures onto a third party you will not be able to use them yourself. Along with the picture you are also selling the rights to use the picture so if you also share it on any of your social media channels you may be challenged to take it down.

 

Family Fun Things to do Near the Dreamstyle Stadium

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Albuquerque is a city of contrasts. The Old Town dates back to 1706, when it was founded as a Spanish colony, and today, the area features historic architecture reflecting its colonial period. The modern downtown, sitting high in the desert, offers museums, galleries, and a robust culinary scene highlighting the area’s famous chilies.

The city’s close proximity to hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities makes it a haven for lovers of the outdoors. A favorable economy and an active artistic community only add to the overall vibe of this dynamic city. Perhaps best known as the home of the International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico’s largest metropolis attracts visitors from all around the world. Here are a few of the best activities for family fun.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center~

Long before the Spanish arrived in New Mexico, this region was home to a large variety of Pueblo people. The fascinating and diverse history of these indigenous people is excellently portrayed in this educational museum, which is filled with art, history, and a series of cultural events.

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science~

“Jurassic Park” comes to life in the form of enormous fossil exhibits, including a T-Rex skull, which is sure to delight kids of all ages. Thanks to the IMAX theater, 75 million years of history, and extensive hands-on exhibits, the whole family will relish a visit to the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

International Balloon Fiesta~

Image via Flickr by Woody H1

For a full week each year, the sky over Albuquerque is filled with a rainbow of colors as almost 600 balloons launch every single day during the International Balloon Fiesta. Many describe this festival as essential for any bucket list, due to the beauty, color, and spectacle it offers. Single- and multi-day passes are available, so the whole family can join in the fun.

Sandia Peak Tramway~

Climbing 2.7 miles from the desert below to the 10,378-foot summit of Sandia Peak, this tramway is the longest in the world. The views are spectacular any time of day, but sunset is especially striking. Upon arrival at the top, visitors can enjoy hiking or some lunch and shopping at the small welcome center. However, the main attraction is the view.

Maxwell Museum of Anthropology at the University of New Mexico~

It isn’t often that a university is considered a family-friendly attraction, but the University of New Mexico’s small campus offers up many art exhibits, several museums, and a performing arts center. It’s easy to find many lodging options near the newly renamed Dreamstyle Stadium, which is the epicenter of the campus. The Maxwell Museum of Anthropology also has a wonderful collection of ancient Mimbres ceramics.

In addition to these sights, Albuquerque offers up parks, colorful cafés, and water parks that offer enough activity to satisfy all members of the family and keep them wanting to return for more. Albuquerque’s dry climate and high altitude make for a pleasant climate, and the city has an extraordinary number of options for outdoor fun, culinary adventure, and cultural highlights.

 

7 Cool Things Totally Unique to Pittsburgh

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Pittsburgh sits at the junction of three rivers and has moved far beyond its former reputation as a steel town. Today, it embraces both its industrial past and its millennial future. Pittsburgh is routinely touted as one of a handful of American cities that offer affordability along with a high standard of living. Trying to break free of its gritty image and moving toward a hipper vibe, this is a city on the rise. Here are seven really cool things that are totally unique to this historic city.

Image via Flickr by Always Shooting
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Discovering the Hidden Charms of Indianapolis

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Indiana’s state capital and largest city offers a world of sightseeing and dining options. As it’s home to the Indy 500 and multiple sports teams, that segment of tourism seems to get all of the attention. However, Indianapolis also has an up-and-coming food scene, and local breweries are popping up all around the region. As the birthplace of David Letterman, home to Frank Sinatra’s singing debut, and the site of the country’s best children’s museum, Indy is far more than it first seems. Here is a guide to Indianapolis and a look at this Midwestern city’s unique sights and flavors.

photo credit toledo589ad

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HOW TO SPEND A LONG WEEKEND IN CAMBRIDGE

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Originally published by Mary at the Calculated Traveler on May 27, 2017

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cambridge

A trip to Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a journey through history, art galleries, museums, and higher learning. Throw in some shopping and some good eats, and you have the perfect long weekend getaway.

GET EDUCATED AT HARVARD UNIVERSITY

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cambridge - Harvard University

Image via Flickr by Michael HicksNo trip to Cambridge is complete without a visit to Harvard University — the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Famous alumni of this prestigious university include John F. Kennedy, Barak Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, and Bill Gates. Tours, both guided and self-guided, are available. You can choose among a number of Cambridge hotels that will keep you close to the sights and attractions you enjoy.

Harvard Square Hotel is conveniently located three blocks from the University. With a hotel this close, you can pretend you’re an Ivy League student living on campus but without having to share a dorm room. While you are playing student, strolling through Harvard Yard, check out the rare books at Houghton Library, find some culture at the Harvard Art Museum, stop into the COOP for some Harvard U souvenirs, and grab a bite at Mr Bartley’s Burgers.

GET CREATIVE AT THE RAY AND MARIA STATA CENTER AT MIT

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cambridge - Ray and Maria Stata Center at MIT

Image via Flickr by Tony WebsterHome to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, the contemporary, deconstructivist style of the Frank Gehry-designed Ray and Maria Stata Center contrast the traditional architecture of the buildings of Harvard. The unique exterior and interior design has received much criticism — positive and negative — so form your own opinion while you’re there. This isn’t the only place to find creativity on campus; MIT is home to some fabulous art galleries as well as many outdoor art installations to fill your Instagram feed.

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cambridge - Kendall Square

Image via Flickr by SoeLinWhether staying in a historic or a contemporary hotel near MIT, you can be in the middle of all the action at hotels near Kendall Square. This 10-acre redevelopment includes restaurants, shopping, 2.5 acres of open space, an outdoor concert venue, a farmers market, and canoe/kayak rentals by the river. Where to eat? Why not pack a picnic or enjoy an outdoor patio meal?

HAVE A 3-D EXPERIENCE AT THE MIT MUSEUM

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cambridge - Hologram Collection MIT Museum

Image via Flickr by A.M. KuchlingWelcoming over 130,000 visitors each year with a collection of over 1 million objects that explore the concept of idea-innovation-invention, the MIT Museum archives the history of the MIT and holds the largest collection of holograms in the world.

Should you wish to consider hotels near the MIT Museum, Le Meridien Cambridge-MIT is one example that’s a few blocks away, next to University Park Common. When it comes time to eat, I’ve heard great things about Craigie on Main, the James Beard award-winning French bistro run by Chef Tony Maws. Alongside its regular menu, Craigie on Main also offers five-course tasting menus as well as brunch on Sunday.

BOSTON IS ACROSS THE RIVER!

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Cambridge - Davis Square

Image via Flickr by spi516

Cambridge sights are plentiful, but Boston is across the Charles River should you wish to explore further. Davis Square is a great neighborhood to call your home away from home since it’s midway between both cities, and you can find a good variety of Davis Square Hotels.

I HOPE YOU’VE ENJOYED THIS WEEKEND GETAWAY THROUGH CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS! DID I MISS ANYTHING?

Featured Image (top) via Flickr by Tony Webster

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Greek Islands – Where to Go and How to Get There

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Anyone with the travel bug like us will love exploring new places. Today I want to introduce you to some of the Greek Islands in Southern Europe and, hopefully, inspire you to book your next holiday on one of them (or more!). With over 200 islands inhabited in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, it’s hard to discover which one is right for you as each one lends itself to a different type of vacation, so here is an overview of my top four.

greece-boat-lake

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How to Spend a Weekend in Charlotte

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Originally published by Andi of The Misadventures of Andi on April 28, 2017.

Disclosure: This post was created in collaboration with Hotel Planner. As always, all experiences and opinions are my own.

The South is steeped in history that spans much more than Southern belles, debutante balls, or Sunday barbecues with smoked meats and crawfish boils. In the past decade, there’s been a revival of the Old South with a new spin, particularly when it comes to the food scene.

Many local chefs are going back to their roots and celebrating Southern cuisine with long forgotten ingredients and menu items. These chefs are also evolving the culinary history of the South by drawing on newer immigrant cultures. It’s this mixing of the Old South with the new that makes a weekend in Charlotte a must.

Weekend in Charlotte

Image via Flickr by James Willamor.

Charlotte is smaller than a lot of other Southern cities, so it’s easier to navigate and enjoy in just a few days. Plus, she’s definitely one of the prettiest belles at the ball. In fact, she’s the queen.

Since a weekend isn’t a whole lot of time, I’m focusing on Uptown in the central part of the city. But you can find lots to do, see, eat and drink all over Charlotte. There are no rules to say you can’t do more!

A Weekend in Charlotte near the City Center/Uptown

Weekend in Charlotte

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Image via Flickr by James Willamor.

This section of Charlotte is densely packed with lots to do. I highly recommend doing as much walking as possible. Burn those calories while visiting a museum, doing a walking tour, or shopping. Then you won’t feel so guilty when you order dessert! Whether you decide to make your home base at a hotel near the city center or close to Discovery Place, you’ll find a plethora of possibilities.

North Carolina’s oldest art museum, the Mint Museum, is right at your doorstep. There are local and internationally renowned artists; Chihuly’s “Royal Blue Mint Chandelier,” and a focus on fine crafts such as glass, pottery, wood, and jewelry. Right next door, you’ll find the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. The museum’s architecture is stunning, and it’s home to works from major artists like Picasso and Warhol. Plus, if your weekend starts on the first Friday of the month, you can catch one of two jazz shows.

Got the kids with you for your weekend in Charlotte? Don’t miss taking them to Discovery Place, an interactive museum for kids focused on science and technology. The museum also has a really cool Genghis Khan exhibit that is not to be missed. The museum is actually a whole lot of fun without the kids, too!

To get a thorough understanding of Southern life and culture, visit the Levine Museum of the New South. Afterward, you can check out the local food scene by exploring the Seventh Street Public Market. Shopping and eating in this famous market helps support the food culture of the Carolinas and promotes local and regional farmers, food artisans, and entrepreneurs. Here, you’re not just eating; you’re contributing, too.

I always enjoy walking tours when I’m visiting a new city, especially if they’re food tours. If you’re also fascinated by local food culture, I highly recommend a tour from Tour de Food or Feast Food Tours, two companies hosting culinary escapades in Uptown. Not only will you learn a thing or two, but you won’t go hungry, either.

Weekend in Charlotte Eating

Image via Flickr by James Willamor.

My picks for food in the Uptown area:

Breakfast and Brunch

  • Amelie’s French Bakery (380 S College St.): Enjoy a casual breakfast with delicious pastries and a damn good croissant.
  • The Asbury (235 N. Tryon St.): Don’t miss the deviled eggs with fried cornichons. This is a great spot for dinner, too.

Lunch

  • The King’s Kitchen (129 W. Trade St.): This spot serves farm-centric Southern comfort food, and every penny of profit goes to feed the poor.
  • Mert’s Heart & Soul (214 N College St.): This spot is home to very good salmon cakes.
  • Chili Man (101-139 S Tryon St.): Get the Life Changer from this food cart owned by Vic.
  • Papi Queso Streatery (6th/Tryon St.): Catch this food truck on Fridays and grab the signature grilled cheese sandwich.

Cocktails

  • 204 North Kitchen and Cocktails (204 N Tryon St.): Stop here for pre-dinner cocktails.

Dinner

  • Rooster’s Wood-fired Kitchen (150 N College St.): Don’t miss the duck dishes or the excellent mac and cheese.
  • Sea Level NC (129 E 5th St.): Dig into sustainable seafood and Carolina oysters in a classy atmosphere.
  • 5Church (127 N. Tryon St.): Try the Rosemary Gin Fizz at this hip steakhouse.
  • McNinch House (511 N. Church St.): Enjoy this formal dining restaurant with top-of-the-line service.

Dessert

  • Crave Dessert Bar (500 W 5th St. #120): Save room for dessert or an after dinner drink at this sweet spot.

Weekend Sports Trips

Weekend in Charlotte Bank of America Stadium

Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Image via Flickr by James Willamor.

Charlotte is a big sports town. If you visit for a weekend to catch the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center, you’ll find plenty of hotels nearby and these great eats:

  • Sunflour Baking Company (2001 East Seventh Street): Amazing bagels and lox
  • Midwood Smokehouse’s (1401 Central Avenue): Carolina barbecue
  • Mert’s Heart & Soul (214 North College Street): Southern soul food and Lowcountry dishes

If you visit Charlotte for a Carolina Panthers game at Bank of America Stadium, stay at a hotel nearby and fill up on these pre-game treats:

  • Price’s Chicken Coop (1614 Camden Road): Carry this institution’s signature take-out dish to the game with you.
  • Pinky’s Westside Grill (1600 West Morehead Street): Don’t miss the iconic White Trash Burger.
  • Seoul Food Meat Company (1400 South Church Street): Get your chicken wings Korean style.

Weekend in Charlotte for the Family

Weekend in Charlotte Charlotte Nature Museum

The butterfly garden at Discovery Place Nature. Image via Flickr by That Guy DouG.

A great spot to take the kids on a family weekend is Discovery Place Nature, formerly known as the Charlotte Nature Museum. It’s an oasis for children and adults to learn more about local wildlife. There’s a butterfly garden, hands-on animal experiences, and a nature trail to Freedom Park, where you can enjoy a family picnic.

Here are some family-friendly spots for food:

  • Duck Donuts (1710 Kenilworth Avenue): Don’t miss these donuts!
  • Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar (1626 East Boulevard): The kids will love the name, and you’ll love the burgers.
  • JJ’s Red Hots (1514 East Boulevard): Enjoy classic hotdogs in a retro environment.

Once everyone’s belly is full, make sure it’s only a short walk to the hotel to take a nap.

How’s that for options? The Queen City rules when it comes to an action-packed, food-filled weekend. How about you? Have you visited Charlotte? What would you add to my weekend plans?

About Andi Fisher

I’m a lifestyle blogger focused on travel and food. A marketing gal who gave up my job to travel around the United States in an RV with my hubby. I’m now settling into the Portland area where I’m looking for my next career adventure! I love to travel via my stomach. Eating, seeking out local artisans and features to share. I’ve got more than 26 years of experience in marketing focused on content, social media, and direct marketing and I’ve mentored many bloggers, old and new.

HOW TO PLAN THE BEST TRIP TO PHOENIX, ARIZONA

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How to Plan the Best Trip to Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, also known as the Valley of the Sun, provides sunshine almost every day of the year. And while it has remained on the list of must-visit cities in the U.S., something has shifted as of late. The city is gaining visitor momentum with its up-and-coming arts scene, gastronomic greatness, and its stunning desert and mountain scenery. If you’re intrigued, here’s how to plan the best trip to Phoenix, Arizona.

When to Go to Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix offers extreme temperatures ranging from 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or about 40 degrees Celsius, in the summer months to freezing in the winter. So it’s best to go in the in-between months in spring and fall to enjoy the Valley of the Sun at its best. When you’re ready to plan your trip, check out this Phoenix hotel planning guide to book the perfect hotel for your needs.

Soak in the Culture and Gastronomy

Capitol Building Phoenix, Arizona

Image via Flickr by Gage Skidmore

Culturally, Phoenix can really stand out with its many museums, theaters, music venues, opera, and symphony. Some of the state’s best museums lie here and feature a number of themes. I recommend The Heard Museum, the Arizona Science Center, the Phoenix Art Museum, and the Museum of Musical Instruments. You can also take a stroll through Bentley Projects, a downtown warehouse district full of art galleries.

Dining Phoenix, Arizona

Image via Flickr by Alan Light

After fueling with the complimentary breakfast at your hotel, feel free to work up an appetite during the day to give way to delicious food. Given the proximity to Mexico, you’ll find outstanding south-of-the-border inspired cuisine.

At the Phoenix Ranch Market, you’ll find freshly made tortillas, refreshing aguas frescas, and mouth-watering tres leches cake. Phoenix also has other international flavours, including French, Korean, and other Latin American cuisines.

Stay Cool

Pool Phoenix, Arizona

Image via Flickr by mirage1210

As mentioned, Phoenix can get pretty hot, but there are several ways to stay cool. Many hotels have pools where you can soak, refresh, and lounge with the family. You can also take them to the several water parks around the city. If water isn’t your thing, you’ll find air conditioning across buildings in Phoenix. So feel free to satisfy your shopping needs at the many malls and chic boutiques.

Witness Stunning Natural Beauty

Hiking Camelback Mountain Phoenix, Arizona

Image via Flickr by ThreeIfByBike

Possibly one of Phoenix’s best feature is its majestic desert landscape with breathtaking sunsets and plenty of outdoor activities. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and biking up Camelback Mountain, where you can view the city from above. If you want to bring your furry friend on your hiking adventure, there are many pet-friendly hotels in Phoenix, too.

There are also many green areas around the city, like the South Mountain and Squaw Pearl parks. You can also go horseback riding through the splendor of the desert and enjoy the vast array of colours during sunset.

Now you have all the best tips for arts and culture, gastronomy, staying cool, and outdoor adventure to visit Phoenix, Arizona. Do you have any other tips or recommendations?

(Featured image via Flickr by midiman)

Originally published by Mani at A New Life Wandering on 3 April, 2017

Singapore Destination Guide

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Originally published on IHG’s Guide to Singapore.

Visiting Singapore – A City Guide

Modern, prosperous and dynamic, Singapore is a global hub for finance, high-tech industry and international trade. If you’re visiting on holiday, it’s a shopper’s haven and a foodie’s dream, with gleaming malls and a legendary food scene that takes in everything from Chinese, Malay and Indian street food to sophisticated fine-dining restaurants.

If you’ve an urge to explore, you can discover the island’s multicultural heritage in Chinatown, Little India, Kampong Glam and the grand colonial buildings of the Civic District. You’ll also find plenty of beachside activities, rainforest parks, a thriving arts scene and 21st-century attractions like Gardens By The Bay.


Singapore: city layout

Shaped like a diamond, Singapore combines towering skyscrapers, traditional communities and modern waterfront developments.

image via Flickr by ^Joe

Restored 19th-century colonial buildings are clustered in the city and Civic District near the Singapore River, with Chinatown close by. Little India and Kampong Glam are found to the north of the city and head east for the popular local suburbs of Geylang and Joo Chiat.

There’s an extensive network of nature reserves and parks throughout the island. Holidaymakers are drawn to islands such as Pulau Ubin for nature trails and bike tracks as well as Sentosa island, connected to central Singapore via a bridge, for seaside entertainment and theme parks.


Top attractions in Singapore

The beautifully landscaped Gardens By The Bay is home to the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome greenhouses, filled with blooms from across the world. Don’t miss the OCBC Skyway, a walkway set among 18 ‘supertree’ sculptures, which comes alive after dark with a magical light display.

For a relaxing day out, head to Sentosa island to soak up the sun on the beach, enjoy a leisurely round of golf or brave the thrilling rides at the Universal Studios Singapore theme park.

image via Flickr by Jira Matousek

Singapore Zoo is home to white tigers, honey-loving sun bears and African lions. You can spot the giant pandas, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, at the River Safari, or nocturnal leopards on the Night Safari.

For a bird’s eye view of Singapore head to the Singapore Flyer, a 165-metre observation wheel with 360-degree views of the island.


The concierge recommends…

  • A walk around Marina Bay to enjoy the city’s night lights.
  • A stroll through the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing lush themed gardens with more than 1,000 species of orchid.
  • A food tour through the well-loved haunts in Chinatown, Geylang Serai, Joo Chiat or Kampong Glam.
  • A visit to Pulau Ubin, a kampong (traditional) village off the coast near Changi Airport.
  • Booking tickets for a traditional dance performance, a play or a concert at the iconic Esplanade arts centre.


Hotels in Singapore

For your stay in Singapore there are hotels that will suit every budget and travel need. The city’s efficient transport system makes travelling around a breeze, and it’s easy to find hotels within walking distance of a train station.

If you want to be in the thick of the action, pick a central location like Orchard Road, Singapore’s most famous shopping street, or close to the energetic nightlife hubs around Clarke Quay, Robertson Quay or Club Street. For a budget hotel in Singapore you’ll find good choices in Little India and Kampong Glam.

Singapore hotels in the central business district (CBD) or at Bugis, Outram Road and North Bridge Road are good for business travellers, with plenty of entertainment nearby.

Families might appreciate the quieter residential areas with easy access to the centre, like Tiong Bahru and River Valley, or a beachside retreat on Sentosa.


Eating Out in Singapore

Singapore’s culinary scene lies at the heart of local life. Choices range from Chinese, Indian and Asian street food at budget-friendly hawker centres in Maxwell Road, Lau Pa Sat and Tiong Bahru Market to award winning fine-dining restaurants like Restaurant Andre or Tippling Club.

For a special night out, try a rooftop restaurant such as Stellar at 1-Altitude to enjoy panoramic city views while you feast on modern European or Asian fare.

If you’re looking for an authentic Singaporean experience, BonAppetour organises trips to local families’ homes for a traditional meal, as well as gourmet cooking classes.


The chef recommends…

  • Chilli Crab: Sweet, savoury and spicy, this dish is prepared by stir-frying crabs in tomato and chilli sauce. Best eaten with fried mantous (Chinese buns).
  • Hainanese Chicken Rice: Steamed chicken, rice cooked in rich chicken broth and cucumber slices make up this beloved national dish. Spicy chilli and ginger paste is the perfect accompaniment.
  • Laksa: This delicious Peranakan soup consists of rice noodles, spices and seafood cooked in creamy coconut milk.
  • Bah Kut Teh or “meat bone tea”, prepared by simmering pork ribs in broth filled with herbs and spices.

image via Flickr by Calgary Reviews

Shopping in Singapore

Singapore’s vibrant local shopping streets and glitzy international malls should satisfy even the most demanding of shoppers.

Around Orchard Road you’ll find glamorous malls like Takashimaya, Paragon and Ngee Ann City, filled with high-end boutiques, luxury labels and gourmet food products. For popular local brands try exploring central malls like Marina Square, Millenia Walk or Raffles City Complex.

If you’re on the lookout for souvenirs, you can pick up Asian antiques, artworks and colourful fabrics along the quirky streets of Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam.


Local shopping in Singapore:

  • Ann Siang Hill: The historic streets around Ann Siang Hill and Telok Ayer are lined with independent boutiques selling unique clothing, fashion accessories and home ornaments.
  • Haji Lane: Designer boutiques selling modern and vintage fashion and lifestyle accessories have transformed this narrow alley in Kampong Glam.
  • Bugis Village: Its crowded lanes are home to a labyrinth of stores in restored shophouses, selling everything from fashion to food and electronics. Ideal for shoppers on a budget.


Culture & Nightlife in Singapore

Singapore’s cultural scene reflects its unique racial mix. The streets of Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India are filled with traditional shophouses and temples. A trip to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple or Sultan Mosque provides a glimpse into the religious traditions of the local Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim communities. You’ll find throngs of devotees in traditional garments playing musical instruments at Sri Mariamman’s frequent temple processions.

You can trace Singapore’s history through the art, artefacts and multimedia displays at the National Museum of Singapore. Traditional Chinese beadwork, porcelain and sarong kebaya dresses are on display at the Peranakan Museum.

Singapore nightlife takes in everything from sleek rooftop bars to chic beachside hangouts and stylish nightclubs. For an evening of feasting and late-night revelry head to Clarke Quay orClubStreet. The vibe is quieter at Robertson Quay, or at Dempsey Hill, where a relaxed evening can be enjoyed.


Live music venues in Singapore

  • Blu Jaz Cafe: Jazz lovers flock to this funky bar for its live music, as well as R&B, hip-hop and Latin dance parties.
  • Timbre: There are three Timbre venues in Singapore, with regular performances by local and international bands.
  • Catch a free concert from the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, held at venues such as the Botanic Gardens.


Leisure in Singapore

Lovers of the outdoors can find plenty to please in Singapore’s parks. You can rent a bike and follow the island-wide park connector network. You’ll enjoy coastal views, tropical greenery and cooling breezes on a ride from East Coast Park to the popular Changi Village Food Centre, which dishes up some of the best nasi lemak (coconut rice) on the island.

Nature lovers can take a treetop walk on the suspension bridge at MacRitchie Reservoir, a leisurely stroll around the hilltop at Fort Canning Park or enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Southern Ridges.

For families, the landscaped roof of the Marina Barrage, looking out over the city and Marina Bay, is a popular spot for picnics and kite flying. Ride the Singapore Cable Car over to Sentosa resort for beach watersports, golf, theme parks and views of the harbour from the Imbiah lookout.

Thrill seekers can try indoor skydiving at iFly Singapore on Sentosa or hurtle through the air in a reverse bungy or GX-5 extreme swing at Clarke Quay. Get closer to nature in the Bedok Reservoir and tackle the family friendly treetop ziplines at the Forest Adventure.

To eat as the Singaporeans do, head to a local cafe for a breakfast of kaya toast and soft boiled eggs. For a Sunday treat, try one of Singapore’s famous Champagne brunches at Garibaldi or Catalunya.


Best eats in Singapore

    • Tong Ah Eating House: This cafe serves up slices of crispy kaya toast and cups of smooth, fragrant kopi (traditional coffee).
    • Chinatown Food Street: Great for street-side dining on local delicacies like hokkien mee and roti prata.
    • Kok Sen Restaurant: This old-school dining establishment turns out some of the tastiest Cantonese wok-fried dishes on the island.
    • Din Tai Fung: This Taiwanese dumpling house has taken Singapore by storm with branches throughout the island.