Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

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Cebu Pacific cheers on PAL’s 70th year with 70% seat sale!

Avail of 70% discount promo on limited seats/ Go Lite Fare on All Domestic & International Destinations for travel period: January 1 – March 15, 2011

Enjoy this offer for sale on April 1-2, 2010.

I already availed a seat for my birthday, quite a steal for P 1,800 all-in, tickets for two, Manila – Puerto Princesa – Manila.

Local fleets are on sale for as low as P300+ and Flights to Asia come around at P1,000+.

Source: Cebu Pacific

♥ valerie {your haven hunter | jetsetter }

Wishing Everyone a Merry Christmas & A Prosperous New Year!

♥valerie {your haven hunter}

My Solo Journey in Singapore was invigorating yet exhausting. It is bound to be more exciting though as Minnie and Christine arrived on the 3rd day.

3rd Day – Kids play at Vivo City & Sentosa Island

I woke up late as usual. My legs still numbed from the long walk I had the previous day. I pushed myself to get ready and make room for my friends arrival. They were fetch by Christine’s cousin, Rose at Changi Airport. Minnie arrived via Singapore Air while Christine came in via Philippine Airlines.

They made it to Azalea Park by 1 PM where they met Mr. R & Mrs. C. They too were excited to dip in the pool when they glanced over from the glass window.

We can’t wait to paint the town and rock Singapura, so off we go for a power lunch to start the day. After a sumptuous feast, we headed to Vivo City. From Outram Park we changed lane going to Harbour Front MRT  Station. We went inside the Mall and off to Vivo City Lobby to purchase tickets for Sentosa Express.

Sentosa Express is just one of the many choices to get to Sentosa Island. It is a monorail ride and perhaps the fastest way to get to the island. Ticket priced at S$3 per person per day for the 2-way express ride and admission to Sentosa.

At half passed 4, we were on our way to Sentosa Island. The short ride delighted us with lush greenery and awesome coastal view. We were transported to Imbiah Station where a  soaring Merlion greeted us.

Access to Merlion mouth gives one a 360 degrees panoramic view of surrounding islands. I bet its best to go there at night to witness a spectacular show of lights and gleaming Singapore Skyline.

We pass through a suspension bridge where a wonderful cascading waterfalls welcomed us. We later learned that the lush greenery leads to a detour to Mount Imbiah.

The Merlion Walk is equally charming, where a luring wave water pool flows endlessly in  a decorated colorful tiles of sea dragons and mermaids.  Towards the end is an intricate tower of Carillon Bells. Sunset is fast approaching as we went further down to the beach station.

We wander to where our feet will take us or rather where the tram would make a stop. In this instance, we went down to Palawan Beach. It’s a tropical haven of white sandy beach stretch. One can choose from a number of recreational activities, from beach volleyball, swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. Our senses were filled with nature’s warmth and the refreshing sea breeze cooled us deep inside.

We travel across the hanging bridge to get to a lush islet. Its theme might be an island paradise where one can find a nook to watch the sunset either on the boardwalk or along the beachfront.

We searched for a secluded spot to lounge and eat the snacks we brought in. The Beard Papa’s Cream Puffs were yummy as well as the authentic Singaporean street food on sticks.

We continued our stroll and spotted the Songs of the Sea concert area. We agreed to buy our tickets for the night’s show. To while away the time, we challenged ourselves with the Skyride. Me and Minnie are not a fan though. We both have fear of heights and the thrilling experience of an open-air cable chairlift almost gave us a heart attack. Thank God were still alive. For most of the long journey high above the ground I kept my eyes shut. Fortunately, I was able to take some photos and glanced at the stunning sunset before its too late.

The Luge takes the cake! It was fun and we all love it. Like a kid with our own go-kart / toboggan, we raced and owned the racetrack.

It was getting dark and we hop in at the tram going to Siloso Beach. We don’t have enough time to stroll though as we need to get back and grab a good seat for Songs of the Sea.

Songs of the Sea is a combination of dramatic pyrotechnic effects and water extravaganza that won Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement for Event Spectacular and ASEANTA Award for Best ASEAN New Tourist Attraction both in 2008. I have never seen anything like it before, so I think its a must see for kids and adults alike. Be ready for jaw-dropping laser show, flame bursts & water jets. The expensive entrance fee is worth it and the show puts a perfect end to our day trip in Sentosa.

We crammed to catch the Sentosa Express back to Vivo City.

The view from the rooftop was amazing. A huge Christmas Tree is set up, dazzling with hundreds of lights.

We had our photo ops before calling it a night.

4th Day -  Farewell to Singapore, Hello Manila!

My last day in Singapore. Yay!

We made a stop by the swimming pool and grab the chance for photo ops. The blue water is inviting but we need to get on foot or I’ll be late with my flight later.

Of course my Singapore tour wouldn’t end without the usual tourist pose at the most popular Singapore attraction:  Merlion Park. We went down at Raffles Place MRT station to walk around One Fullerton. The midday sun is scorching hot and its quite a maze to find what we were looking for. We made it to downtown Marina Bay where we were enthralled with the unique ambience of waterfront promenade. Singapore River flows in at this artificial bay. The apparent development on the bayfront is visible with a good line up of fine dining restaurants and cruise terminal for ducktours and river cruises.

Further ahead, we finally reached Merlion Park. There is a viewing deck stretch through Singapore River that offers superior panoramic sight of the massive Esplanade Theatres on The Bay, Singapore Flyer, the Float and grandstand, and towering Singapore skyline backdrop.

Merlion is a hybrid of lion and fish and known to the world as Singapore’s Icon. It represents the early beginnings of Singapore as a fishing village.

We went back to the condo after our quick lunch.

Much as I want to extend my stay in this beautiful city, I need to get ready to rock Manila.

Thanks so much to Kuya Robert and Ate Cindy for the hospitality. Hugs goes out to Minnie, Christine & Rose for spicing up my Singapore Adventure =)

i  ♥ singapura

I must learn to love the fool in me, the one who feels too much, talks too much, takes too many chances, wins sometimes and loses often, lacks self-control, loves and hates, hurts and gets hurt, promises and breaks promises, laughs and cries.

- Theodore Isaac Rubin

Finally, a break from work and a reward I’ll truly cherish. Dubai had tainted my soul with so much stress and so its time to unwind and pull myself together before our big day.

My itinerary includes shopping, shopping, shopping… oh, there’s more… uhm… shopping?

While planning my Manila homecoming last year and learning that my flight includes a stopover in Singapore, I thought of extending my stay and enjoy the Lion City at it’s best. Singapore, also known as Lion City is located at the southern tip of Malay Peninsula.

So I took the liberty to arrange my Singapore Air booking, which I had to pay a portion off since my company ticket is not able to cover all expenses. I have arranged my budget accommodation prior to traveling. A dear friend has also made travel arrangement to join me there on my 3rd day. I’ll have 4 days to rock Singapore!

On Nov. 22 I departed Dubai at around 9 PM, full of excitement yet heartbroken. Sipping Dubai’s warmth one last time. My housemates escorted me at the airport and when my colleague handed my passport, its time to say goodbye.

Singapore Air is roomy. I can’t tell the difference from the Cathay Pacific flight I’ve taken more than 2 years ago. The eight hours flight seemed forever. To my dismay, I haven’t enjoyed the food and my restless soul wouldn’t want to sleep. Can you tell I’m too thrilled? We traveled on the looming darkness as I glanced one last time on the carnival of lights of Dubai’s Skyline.

Waking Up in Singapore

By 5:10 AM Singapore time the following day, we landed safely at Singapore Changi International Airport. The airport interior is impressive. I so missed traveling, and that moment felt surreal.

I had to fill up an information sheet before heading out the immigration area. I also took advantage of Singapore Tourism leaflets, containing guides, shopping deals & map. My encounter with the immigration check is quick and easy.

Still in awe, I almost forgot to claim my baggage. There were hardly any people clamoring near the conveyor belt for their luggage. I made a stop at a currency exchange counter for some Singaporean dollar. I need cash to pay for my taxi fare. I also bought a sim card for my mobile to inform the homeowner that I’ll be arriving soon. Then, I queued in at the Taxi area and gave the driver the address where I’m headed. Vehicles here are right-hand drive, which I wasn’t able to get used to on the entire trip. My eyes are always set on the usual left- driver’s side, I feel alarmed when I don’t get to see them immediately. lol.

Few minutes later, we’re cruisin’ the road, as I noticed the beautiful trees lined up alongside swaying in the morning breeze. The weather is perfect. We are heading to Azalea Park Condo, Flora Road. It took about 5 minutes from Airport to Flora Rd.

At the gate, we went through the usual security check. Then I had to drag my heavy luggage going up the elevator to the 9th floor. The couple, Mr. R & Mrs. C, welcomed me in and gave me a tour of their home. I was lead to the room next to the bathroom where I will be staying for the next 3 days. Their unit was awesome and the view from the glass panel is so relaxing. From the living room, I can see the swimming pool and the playground. From my room, I can see a tennis court, car park and lots of trees. Our AC room is spacious with a single bed and 1 queen bed. Just perfect for Minnie &  Christine’s arrival on the 25th. A large fridge and cabinet were also provided.

My eyes got heavy, I had to doze off before starting my solo journey.

By 12 noon, I’m already starving, so I freshened up and got surprised when the heavy rain started pouring. I found Mr. R, and asked if the rain will ever stop soon. I learned that the weather plays around during the afternoon, but the rain would stop shortly too. He lend me an umbrella in case I’ll be braving the rain. He also offered his street maps so I can figure out how to get to my destination by bus or MRT. Yeah, it felt so touristy having to bring along map & guides. But I wouldn’t want to get lost either in this small country. Few minutes later, the rain stop. I had to rush outside before it changes its mind.

There’s a bus stop nearby, and I had to figure out which bus number I have to take. Mr. R already explained it to me, but I guess I was preoccupied and wasn’t able to remember anything. I scanned the bus route as well for bus stop numbers, but to no avail, I’m still clueless where I’m heading. Its more complicated to understand than Dubai Bus System, I thought. I then decided to walk and search for nearby restaurants, but I gave up after a block. I went back to the bus stop instead.

Finally my eyes were set to the nearest MRT station on the map, I’m in between Pasir Ris & Tampines. There are about 10 buses going in different routes which stops every few minutes. I have to scan the routes of each bus number, so by the time I realized that I’ll get in, they’re already gone. Sigh. Why are they in a hurry?

Singapore MRT Map

I made a major boo-boo on the first bus I hopped into.  The driver told me that he will not passed through Tampines MRT Station and that I should wait for Bus #3 instead. Shoot me, talk about waiting for a long time and boarding the wrong bus. Lol.

So, bus number 3 came, and I asked the Driver that I’m headed to the MRT Station, he pointed at the card reading machine for payment, and I politely asked him how much instead. Uncle answered 1 Singaporean Dollar. I dig through my wallet and found my S$5, in which he didn’t take because he don’t have any change. Luckily, I wasn’t thrown out of the bus, and got my first ride free. Yikes!

From Tampines Station, I grabbed a late lunch at the first Fast Food Restaurant I’ve seen, Mc Donalds. Then I bought an EZ Link Card that is loaded with cash value I can use for MRT payment, bus fee, 7-eleven and more . I decided to do mall hopping & shopping for the rest of the day. So off I go to Orchard Road. Oooops, is it just me or the elevator here seemed faster than usual? Thank God, I did not trip.

Orchard Road was transformed into a fairy land with its impressive Christmas Decoration. Different Christmas ornaments can be seen everywhere, lighting up the whole street of Shopping Malls. On foot, I was able to explore TANGS, Lucky Plaza, Wisma Atria, Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya, Louis Vuitton, Wheelock Place & Paragon Mall. The spirit of Christmas is truly priceless! And I’m itching for an LV Bag. A battle between an LV and a wedding budget… ouch.

I had to checked Ipanema flipflops from Royal Sporting House. I read somewhere that its cheaper in Singapore. But the particular design I am looking for wasn’t available. While strolling opposite TANGS, I was entertained with a display of art from Sokkuan called Sophie Black and other amazing artworks. They’re so pretty!

From Wheelock Place, I grabbed a cup of coffee at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf and planned for my next stop. The coffee place allowed a good view of a wide screen hung up at the mall on the opposite street. Just in front is a huge Christmas tree of candies. Can’t resist to take photos.

After exploring Orchard Road, I went to the nearest MRT station and searched on how to get to Clarke Quay. My feet were aching but my happy spirit don’t mind. I was able to find my way outside The Central Shopping Center where a lovely huge pink Christmas Tree is on display. I crossed over the bridge of Riverside Point passing through a hot selection of waterfront restaurants and bars. For the adrenaline seekers, there’s a G-Max Reverse Bungy. I also found a cute trinket shop that sells miniature merry go rounds and music boxes.

I walk through an underpass to get to the other side and back. My feet won’t take the long walk back to the MRT station, instead I took the bus going home and luckily I remember where to get off. Yey! Successful first day. I was home before 12 midnight.

2nd Day: Singapore Mall Hopping and Budget Finds

Catching up with the time difference and jet lag, my 2nd day in Singapore started late. I woke up at 10 AM but too lazy to move around.

I headed to Tampines MRT Station at around 12 NN and a Shop Sale Alert caught my eyes in an instant. HO! HO! HO! Christmas comes in early as I’ve scored great fashion deals at Alano Shop. I got 3 summer dresses at a cheap discounted price of S$26!

I then went at the nearby Hawker Center to have a taste of the authentic & popular Singaporean Dish, Chicken Rice. The late lunch experience wasn’t new (it’s like eating in turo-turo in the Philippines),  roasted chicken tastes good and the price is surprisingly cheap (S$1.80)!

After the hearty meal, I decided to take an MRT going down at City Hall Station. My long stroll started at CityLink Mall which is recognized as Singapore’s first underground mall. I passed by Charles & Keith for a gorgeous pair of sandals.

Wandering through the mall, I found the passage to Marina Square. It houses the biggest Crocs Shop I’ve seen so far. I also dropped by at Royal Sporting House to hunt for that comfy Ipanema flipflops, but still unable to find one.

Went down at One Raffles Link and admire the stunning display of huge water cycle.

Traipsing Singapore in a day can be exhausting. I went back to the mall to grab a meal at KFC. I was totally happy that KFC meal comes with gravy, yay! In UAE, they don’t serve it, which means I’ve been missing it so much.

Relieved from walking stress and filled appetite, I continued my solo journey. From Marina Square I can view the Durian-shaped Esplanade. I went through Suntec City then headed towards the many signage to get to Esplanade, passing through parking lots, and a long alley with a creepy display of Audio Visual Presentation.

Finally, I made it at Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, which I wasn’t able to recognize until I’ve gone out. lol. The interior is impressive, although, I didn’t wander too long inside. It houses world-class performing halls and facilities. I made my way out, and took the chance for photo op before the sun came down.

Esplanade’s exterior is more impressive as the building’s glass case and aluminum sunshades reflect through sun’s glory.  There’s a park outside where anyone can lounge during sundown and view the magnificent lighting of this massive architecture.

Time is flying fast, and I hurried up to my next destination. Its 7 in the evening and I thought of exploring Chinatown. From the MRT station, I took the exit to People’s Park. The street is lively and filled with bargain shops. I found my way going to Trengganu Street Night Market and scored some souvenir items and floral dresses from one of the Chinese Shops.

It was almost 9 in the evening but I don’t want to end the night yet. I heard there is a night market in Bugis. So, off I took the MRT to Bugis Station. I then emerged at Bugis Junction which holds a display of modern Christmas trees, from glass decorated Merry-Go-Round inspired to a huge twisted Christmas tree at the open park area of the Shopping Mall.

Across the street is Bugis Village, or pasar malam (night market), which contains an array of small stalls selling cheap and bargain goods from bags, accessories to souvenir items. I was a bit  disappointed though that some shops and stalls were already closing. And the street is getting darker too, so I decided to go back to the MRT station and call it a night.

I got home before 12 MN, and quite excited to try the new dresses I bought. Looking forward to Minnie & Christine’s arrival in few hours, will have another exciting day in singapore.

Solo travels can be so much fun and healthy. It brings out a feeling of satisfaction. You discover something about the place and within yourself. You can be spontaneous without causing inconvenience to anyone. You can go by your own pleasure. You can embarrass yourself and laugh at it. You can learn many things. You can think and reflect at any moment you like. You can find a perfect spot to be solitary and call it your own.

♥valerie {your haven hunter | loves shopping in singapore}