How to Stay Safe While Travelling in Singapore - Tips for a Safe Holiday in Lion City

 Tipped to be Asia's most straight-laced nation, Singapore is also the safest destination for holidaymakers in the region. This, however, does not mean that tourists do not encounter unsavoury experiences during their getaways in the island nation as most are unaware of the local regulations and codes of conduct in community life. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate your way through Singapore safely and without hassle the next time you head down to Lion City.

Maksym Kozlenko, Clive Street, Singapore, CC BY-SA 4.0

1.  Carry Cash and Cards

Although Singapore is a modern metropolis where most stores and vendors will accept card payments, it is necessary to carry some cash to pay for certain goods and services. This is especially true for those who are heading outside the Central Business District to restaurants and street-side shops in Little India or Chinatown as the vendors in these areas will prefer cash payments. Singapore's famous hawker centres are also known for preferring cash due to how inexpensive the meals are while neighbourhood tuck shops will also be unable to process card payments.

2. Don't Tip

Unlike most tourist hotspots around the world, tipping is completely unnecessary in Singapore. This is due to the fact that the tip for the wait staff is usually added to your bill as a Goods & Service Tax when you dine out so there's no need to leave a few dollars for your waiter or waitress. They are being duly compensated for their service with this government tax.

3. Do Not Sit on Reserved Tables

This is a faux pas that pertains to dining in hawker centres and other communal dining settings where locals will leave some items to reserve a table. The personal item left on the table or chair can range from an umbrella and a handbag to a pack of tissues or water bottles. So when you come across an umbrella or a water bottle on an otherwise empty table, do not assume that it was left behind by mistake – find another table instead.

 4. Don't Eat and Drink on the Public Transport

As the most commonly used mode of transport among travellers based at Park Hotel Alexandra or any other hotel near Harbourfront Singapore, riding the MRT will become a part of your daily holiday routine in Lion City. While the MRT network is very cleanly, efficient and comfortable, passengers are not allowed to eat or drink inside the cabins although they can carry food items and beverages. If you are thirsty or need a bite to eat, head to a street-side restaurant or a cafe before catching the MRT.

5. Leave Cigarettes Behind

While there are designated areas in restaurants and other public spaces for smokers, bringing cigarettes into the country is illegal. This means travellers who smoke must buy cigarettes in Singapore instead of packing their favourite brand of smokes from home. Cigarettes are very costly in Singapore due to heavy taxes imposed on the commodity. Airport authorities are known to check for cigarettes and other contraband diligently so do not risk being found and leave the cigs at home.

6. Avoid Drugs Altogether

Those who are familiar with the horror stories of tourists being detained and facing trial in Thailand and Singapore over drug charges should know that Singapore is indeed very strict on illegal substances. Those who are caught with even a small amount of illegal drugs will face jail time and harsh punishments even if their bags were used by cartels to funnel drugs into the country. Consuming drugs also carries its penalties so make sure your belonging are not tampered with and that you do not engage in intoxicated behaviour during the trip.

How to Order Indian Food Like a Pro – a guide to enjoying Indian Cuisine

 Indian cuisine is considered to be one of the best anywhere in the world. It is filled with amazing ingredients, intriguing aromas, and tastes like no other. The most important thing when enjoying Indian food is to order right. Here are a few points to remember when you are ordering Indian food next time.

Mohans1995, Indian-Food-wikicont, CC BY-SA 4.0

 1. Survey the whole Menu

Menus at Indian restaurants can be extensive. There is always going to be an entire section dedicated to vegetarian food, which on its own can be overwhelming. There will be sections dedicated to Southern Indian cuisines as well as Northern Indian dishes. The meat section will be expansive consisting of dishes ranging from chicken, mutton, and fish. Therefore, surveying the menu is the first step for ordering well at an Indian restaurant. Once you’re aware of the choices you are faced with, it’ll be much easier to order well.

 2. Choose a hero for the day

There are so many great things that you can order when you go for Indian brunches in Dubai. You can go for a meal where the hero ingredient is Dosai or select a Thali where rice and curry take prominence. You can also choose to feature curries as the main hero for the day and buy accompaniments around it. Either way, it is important to pick what you want to hero for the day when you visit Tandoor Tina. This is because Indian food can be quite filling. So, if you order too much of everything, you won’t be able to enjoy any of the dishes properly. If you are visiting an Indian restaurant for the first time, this can be quite tricky. Then, it is best to get a recommendation from someone who has visited the restaurant before to get a feel of the best items on offer.

 3. Choose your spice level right

If you are a lover of Indian food, you probably like eating spicy as well. However, a common misconception is that all Indian food needs to be spicy. The main highlight of Indian food is that it is full of flavour and not necessarily that it is spicy. You can always ask the restaurant to keep the spice levels low or order a relatively mild dish. This wouldn’t compromise the quality of your dining experience because the flavours would still be amazing. Alternatively, if you end up ordering something too spicy, you will forego the opportunity to taste and devour the food that you receive.

 4. Always ask for descriptions

The traditional names that are given to Indian dishes might be quite unfamiliar to you. This is mainly based on how often you dine at Indian restaurants. If this is the case, it is always better to request that the waiter explains the dish to you. Some curries can be tomato-based while others are yogurt-based. Some would have raw green chillies while others would cook their aromatics down. Such details can help you make a more informed decision on your Indian meal.

 5. Dedicate enough time for the meal

When ordering Indian food, one thing you must know is that you will be spending a considerable time enjoying it. Indian food is not something that you can eat quickly and in one go. It can be quite heavy if you decide to do this. Therefore, taking your time and enjoying each part of the meal slowly is the best way to eat your food. So, make sure you keep this in mind when you order. This is especially important if you are ordering multiple items including dessert. You don’t want to rush through the meal to get to the finish line and end up not enjoying it.

How to Make the Best of Your Trip to Kalutara 5 tips to look into!

 The city of Kalutara is known as Sri Lanka's cultural centre and it is located approximately 43 kilometres south of Colombo. In this charming city, a relaxing and enjoyable environment is provided for those who like to unwind as well as enjoy their free time. This article will aid you in organising your schedule and making the best out of your trip here!

Image via : Piqsels

 Overview 

In part because of its proximity to the more well-known neighbouring towns of Hikkaduwa and Galle, the town of Kalutara is occasionally overlooked by tourists visiting those areas. However, this town is ideal for couples who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities and instead visit a calm setting, like the Kalutara beach hotels, which is appropriate for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. The following are among the most stunning sights in Kalutara that you must include on your itinerary during your visit. 

 Kande Viharaya

Kande Viharaya Temple is a must-see sight in Kalutara, and it is located in the city centre. People from the surrounding area make an effort to pay a visit to the temple at least once every year. At around 50 metres in height, this monument commands attention. This is a site that regularly astounds those who see it. This temple is located in a beautiful and peaceful location, and you must exercise extreme caution not to disrupt that tranquillity. If you're searching for a place to stay close to this area, you may also choose properties like Turyaa Kalutara Hotel for a comfortable stay.

Richmond Castle 

The Richmond Castle, which was built in the early 1900s, is one of the few places in Kalutara that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance. A mudaliyar (who is a local leader) formerly resided in the home, which is now available to the public and provides an opportunity for tourists and locals alike to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city while also admiring its tranquil charm. Richmond Castle is a great place to visit if you want to see the more peaceful side of this city, thanks to its extensive grounds, meticulous planning in its construction, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the stunning scenery Kalu Ganga of Kalutara.

Kalu Ganga

While there are various scenic vantage points from which to see the Kalu Ganga, the best way to really enjoy this unique river would be to take a relaxing boat ride. Speedboats or traditional fishing boats may take you on a tour of the gorgeous seas. You'll observe the numerous plants and animals that dwell along this river, adding to the city's rich biodiversity, while you cruise on these waters. 

 Katukurunda Beach

Katukurunda Beach is a lovely stretch of golden beaches and clear blue oceans where you can relieve stress in the shade of drooping coconut palms. Katukurunda Beach is the spot to go if you're looking for a peaceful sandy beach to have a relaxing walk on. Don't forget to observe the spectacular sunset while you're here; it's a must-see! There are several restaurants in the area where you may get a bite to eat. 

 Fa Hien Cave

The Fa Hien Cave is a beautiful cave situated farther inland from Kalutara's city centre and is said to be the home of the famous wandering monk Fa Hien. There is an indication of ancient cavemen relics, despite the lack of geological evidence. The caves are especially famous for their breathtaking amazing views of the landscape. It is possible to gain panoramic views of Kalutara's wilderness from the cave entrance, which is located on a high area of ground that requires a climb to access. This gives you a unique view of the city, increasing your desire to visit the caves while in Kalutara.

How to Spend One Day in Bangkok – An Alluring and Captivating City

 There is no doubt that Bangkok is one of the world’s most fascinating cities, offering many engrossing experiences for the visitor. In fact, the city’s attractions are so diverse that there are sure to be experiences that will appeal to every traveller. The Thai capital offers sightseeing highlights, religious attractions, delectable foods, entertainment, retail therapy and much more to enjoy. Even if you have just one day to spend in Bangkok, you could still experience its major attractions, as described below.

Diego Delso, Templo Wat Arun, Bangkok, Tailandia, 2013-08-22, DD 16, CC BY-SA 3.0

 Make the most of the morning

Many of Bangkok’s attractions are in proximity to the Chao Phraya River; with this in mind, the first thing you should do when commencing your tour of the city’s highlights would be to avail yourself of a Chao Phraya Tourist Boat pass. This will enable you to board and disembark from vessels along the river as you would like. The first attraction on your itinerary would be the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew. You will find that the Grand Palace is a majestic complex with many handsome and elaborate buildings worth taking in.

Next, you may visit a couple of Bangkok’s outstanding temples, Wat Arun and Wat Pho. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) happens to rank amongst the city’s oldest and largest temples and is renowned for its immense reclining Buddha statue. Meanwhile, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) with its unmistakable central spire is an iconic feature of the city providing some great photo opportunities too.

 Enjoy lunch and an afternoon of sightseeing

You could enjoy a tasty lunch at one of the numerous restaurants lining the Chao Phraya River that offer splendid views of the magnificent Wat Arun. You may also encounter a selection of street vendors offering some interesting trinkets. However, for a truly mesmerising shopping experience, you should make your way to Siam, where you will find upscale products, the creations of Thai designers and so on in a selection of alluring modern malls; highlights include Siam Paragon, MBK Centre, CentralWorld and Siam Discovery. Ideally, look to be based at a Bangkok city hotel in this area; options include properties like Pathumwan Princess Hotel located next to the MBK Centre.

A rather different but equally distinctive shopping experience is offered by the Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you will find a diverse and mind-boggling collection of merchandise. Of course, since this is a weekend market, you will have to plan your visit accordingly; that’s why, to truly experience the wonders of Bangkok, you should really undertake a longer stay in the city!

 Savour some local cuisine

After your shopping exertions, it will be time to experience a rewarding evening in Bangkok. However, by this time you will probably be feeling a little hungry, and so you will want to grab a quick bite before proceeding on your adventure! Since Bangkok boasts a varied and alluring selection of restaurants, eateries, street food stalls and so on, you will have a diverse selection of options from which to make your choice.

 Experience fun nightlife

To complete your eventful day exploring Bangkok, you could spend the night hours at one of the city’s appealing nightclubs or bars. In this regard, you will find that Soi 11 in Sukhumvit offers a good selection of establishments from which to make your choice.

For some affordably priced drinks, you could make your way to Cheap Charlie’s, an appealing dive bar that is a popular establishment. You will find that although this bar may lack elegance or air conditioning, the drinks such as beers, wells and wine will be attractively priced. For a taste of Bangkok’s pulsating and more adults-only oriented nightlife, you can make your way to the famed Soi Cowboy home to lots of go-go bars.

If bar or club-hopping is not your thing, head on over to the Sukhumvit Street Market that features stalls offering a diverse range of items from clothing to souvenirs; this is a great spot to try some of the popular street food in Bangkok as well.

How to Plan as a First Timer Visiting Hong Kong - Tips on Planning Your First Trip to Hong Kong

 Tipped to be one of Asia's most vibrant holiday hotspots, Hong Kong offers travellers a wealth of unique experiences. Hong Kong is home to Macau, Asia's own gambling hub that's often compared to Monte Carlo. A trip to Hong Kong can encompass a plethora of diverse activities and attractions. From deciding when to go to finding the perfect rest, here are some guidelines on how to plan the ultimate trip to Hong Kong for first-timers.

Dennis Tang, View of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak, CC BY-SA 2.0

1. Time the Trip

The first step in planning a trip to Hong Kong is deciding when to travel to the island nation. Although Hong Kong is billed as a year-round vacation hotspot, those who wish to make the most of their visit should ideally explore the country during the period between September and December. This is also the peak tourist season in Hong Kong where travellers can experience autumnal weather and avoid the heat and humidity of the summer months, which last from May to the middle of September. The months between March and June are also idyllic in terms of weather so those who wish to travel before the end of the year can choose this period. While Hong Kong does not experience heavy rain, a light shower is always expected even on the sunniest days so packing an umbrella or a raincoat is a must.

2. Select a Strategic Base

The next order of business is finding the perfect hotel or resort for your stay. Whether you select the Park Hotel Hong Kong or any other rest, which should include some of the best restaurants in Tsim Sha Tsui, it is important to gauge the venue's actual location. As a country that's renowned for its never-ending traffic jams, the value of a strategic base cannot be overstated. In addition to being easy to reach from the airport, your ideal rest should also be within close range of the top attractions in the city while also offering easy access to public transport hubs.

 3. Create a Sightseeing Itinerary

While it is impossible to explore all of the island nation's top cultural and recreational attractions during a single trip, first-time visitors should make sure that the highlights they select appeal to their own interests. Some of the main points of interest in Hong Kong include The Peak, the Wong Tai Sin Temple and the Po Lin Monastery. The Man Mo Temple and the Sha Tin's Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery are equally breathtaking heritage hubs while a tour of the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum is also a must.

 4. Explore Transport Options

Depending on the duration of your stay and the types of activities and adventures you wish to enjoy in Hong Kong, it is necessary to have some idea of what means of transport will be employed for your travels. The MRT is, by far, the most efficient and affordable option available to tourists apart from the city's trams, double-decker buses and ferries. Taxi services are also accessible to tourists although it is not the most budget-friendly option available and the frequent traffic congestions also make taxi travel a hassle during rush hour.

5. Sign Up for Activities

Hong Kong is home to Hong Kong Disneyland and other equally compelling activity bases; therefore, signing up for activities is also necessary for first-timers. In addition to scheduling a day at amusement parks or signing up for food tours etc, visitors should also find a local tour operator to enjoy a cruise around the Hong Kong coastline or a day trip to Lantau Island.

 6. Don't Forget a Day Trip to Macau

Visitors who wish to spend time in Macau, Hong Kong's casino capital, will require a separate visa to enter the destination but it is well worth the effort as the area is also home to many heritage sites. Iconic Senado Square, the Macau Tower, and Rua das Estalagens among many other highlights are found on this leisure hotspot where The Venetian and other massive integrated casinos and resorts are found.

How to Explore the Cave of the Great Kings - Tips on Discovering the Cave of the Great Kings at the Dambulla Cave Temple

 As one of the most popular UNESCO Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple is a must-visit highlight for all travellers. The Cave of the Great Kings is perhaps the most impressive and ornate area of this iconic cave compound, which was built back in the 1st century B.C.E. From the layout of the cave to the sculptures found within, here are some tips on how to uncover the many facets of the Cave of the Great Kings.

Lankapic, Dambulla-buddhastupa, CC BY-SA 3.0

 1. Do Your Homework

Those who wish to make the most of their visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple or any other historic point of interest should first and foremost read up on the venue. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best-preserved and largest cave temple compound on the planet, this iconic spiritual epicentre has a colourful and engaging legacy that's documented in both online and offline resources. The Cave of the Great Kings, also known as the Maharaja Vihara Lena in the local tongue, is a particularly interesting section of the temple as it not only contains the sculpture of two great Sri Lankan monarchs, King Nissankamalla and King Valagambahu but also nearly 50 sculptures of Lord Buddha including a life-size one rendered in granite among many other treasures.

 2. Explore in Order

As the Cave of the Great Kings is the 2nd cave tourists will come across during a tour of the Dambulla Cave complex, one cannot stress the importance of visiting the caves in order. While it may be tempting to head to the Maharaja Vihara Lena upon your arrival at the temple grounds, it is better to take in each of the caves in the order in which they are located so as to experience the temple as a pilgrim would have back in the 1st century BC when the venue was constructed by none other than King Vittagamini Abhaya. Not only will touring the caves in an ascending order give visitors a better understanding of the various renovations, improvements, and frescoes that are were added in later periods of the 1700s but also how the temple has been intentionally divided between multiple shrines.

 3.  Notice the Details

Apart from the sculptures mentioned above, the Cave of the Great Kings also contains a stupa that's surrounded by eleven statues of the Buddha in a seated position. Other details that you should take note of in the interior of the cave is its length and that more than fifty-five sculptures of Lord Buddha are not the only highlights found within. There are also statues of Hindu Gods including Ganesha, Vishnu, and Saman, which speak to the multi-cultural religious heritage of the island nation, even during the 1st century B.C.  Don't forget to take a closer look at the exquisite murals and frescoes decorating the walls and the ceiling of the temple as they are visual representations of Lord Buddha's many incarnations and his battle with the demons before achieving enlightenment. The geometric designs on the cave are also impressive as well as how well the frescoes have retained their colours in spite of their age.

 4. The Bowl

Another point of interest inside the Cave of the Great Kings is a massive bronze bowl that is believed to have been placed centuries ago to catch raindrops that drip from the ceiling. What makes this bowl special is that no matter the season, whether the country is facing a severe lack of rainfall or is struggling during a drought, the bowl is never empty.

 5. Leave the Camera Behind

Those based at eco-hotels the likes of Heritance Kandalama or any other Kandalama hotel in the area should remember that flash photography is not allowed inside the caves. The flash from modern camera equipment is known to damage ancient murals so refrain from using your cameras inside the caves.

How to Explore the Muppets and Masks of Ambalangoda - Guide to exploring Ambalangoda's Puppets and Mask-Making Heritage

 As a fascinating area to explore for culture buffs heading Down South, Amabalangoda remains one of Sri Lanka's last remaining mask and puppet manufacturing hamlets. Preserving this dying art form that is fast disappearing from the island, the area provides visitors with an in-depth look at the illustrious history of making masks that were used in exorcisms and puppets that were employed to entertain the village folks of centuries past. Here's how to uncover Amabalangoda's unique heritage.

 

Dan arndt, Traditional masks - Ambalangoda 01, CC BY-SA 4.0

 1. Do Your Homework

Tourists heading to architecturally rich resorts inspired by Bewis Bawa such as the Heritance Ahungalla or any other hotels in Ahungalla should first read up about Ambalangoda's artisan past. Although the area is easily accessible to Ahungalla and surrounding beach hotspots, a day trip to the town should not be undertaken without fully understanding the type of mask and puppet making heritage it is famed for. There are countless online resources as well as guidebooks delving into the rich cultural heritage of Ambalangoda and what visitors can expect from a tour of the area. Understanding the mechanics of the industry and its decline will give one a better understanding and a greater appreciation for the works of art one will come across on a tour.

2. Finding Local Artisan Families

Similar to most art forms and traditional schools of craft, Ambalangoda's mask and puppet making legacy are also tied to several prominent artisan families living in the area. Passing down these skills from generation to generation, the masks created by different families will have their own unique signature appearance. As most of the masks were used for ceremonial purposes, they were once in high demand as locals in the area and around the island relied on various rituals to rid their loved ones of various afflictions; therefore, the artisans themselves were considered with great reverence in the community for their role in preparing the headgear worn by dancers and exorcists alike.

3. Sign Up for a Tour

Those who wish to have a deeper understanding of Ambalangoda's mask manufacturers should sign up for a tour organised by local tour operators that will take visitors to venues such as the Ambalangoda Mask Workshop and Museum. The Ariyapala and Sons mask hub will also feature in most tours as it is one of the last remaining family businesses with a rich history in carving masks over the centuries.

4. Types of Masks and Wood Sources

There are three types of masks that are made in Ambalangoda and visitors will get a chance to gaze upon the menacing-looking masks that belong to the Sanni class, which were used exclusively for exorcisms. There are 18 masks that represent different ailments in the Sanni order that are believed to address issues from simple stomach diseases to insanity. The Kolam masks, in contrast, are believed to have come into play during the colonial era and are humorous in appearance. Made using Kaduru wood, which is compared to Balsa and is lighter compared to other wood, artisans follow strict sculpture-like instructions when carving the masks after the wood has been smoked and dried for seven days.

5. Don't Forget the Library

Apart from visiting the two-storey museum and marvelling at the more than 120 masks on display, no visit to the Ambalangoda Mask Workshop and Museum would be complete without a stopover at the venue's library. Documenting the finer points of Ambalangoda's legacy in mask making and performances, the venue is an anthropological treasure for those with a passion for puppetry and mask traditions.

6. Purchase a Souvenir

While those with the means can purchase an example of Ambalangoda's iconic masks as a keepsake, travellers on a budget will find that the museum as well as most handicraft shops sell key tags and other affordable souvenirs that feature the frightening visages of the Sanni and Kolam masks.

How to Relax your Body with Massage Treatments in Dubai – comfort and relaxation await

 Getting a massage is a great way to relax and unwind. If you are on holiday, this is an activity that you must include in your activity plan. If you are working and living in Dubai, this might be even more important to help you deal with your busy life. No one likes going through a week with an aching body. A massage can be a great way for you to enjoy some tranquillity while giving your body a chance to recover.

Daniela, Hot Stone Massage at Witches Falls Cottages, CC BY 2.0

1. When should you book a massage treatment?

This depends on how frequently you want to get a massage. Ideally, getting a massage at least once a week or once in two weeks is ideal. This gives you an amazing thing to look forward to during the week and provides you with the assurance of bliss. It is best to book the massage towards the end of the week so that your body has enough time to heal over the weekend. However, remember that the massage spa in Dubai might be quite busy during this time. So having a booking a few weeks ahead will be an idea. Hotel spas such as the Extra Hour Spa might also have more availability.

 2. Choose your favourite type of massage

If you have had massages before, then you probably have a favourite type of massage. For example, Swedish massages are excellent for people who have a lot of tight spots and don’t like a lot of pressure. This is ideal for muscle relaxation and to relieve minor body pains.

 If you are looking for something more intense, hot stone massages might work for you. This is better equipped to ease pain, improve blood flow and improve your wellbeing overall. It uses a combination of hot stones and normal massaging. The hot stones provide an additional layer of comfort to the body by encouraging muscle relaxation.

 There is also aromatherapy, which is mostly focused on emotional well-being. If you are someone who is struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression, this is a great one to try out. Aromatherapy is based on massages that use essential oils. The oils, while providing more comfort to your muscles, also provide sensory comfort through their smells. This can be ideal for those who use smell as a source of calming comfort and who wouldn’t want a massage that is too intense.

 3. Book a day that you can truly relax

The worst thing is to go for a massage and then keep getting calls or keep thinking about the next thing on your agenda. A massage is best experienced if you truly let go and be in the moment. So, when you are booking your massage, make sure you do so on a day that you are free. Don’t schedule any other activities for the rest of the day. This way you can enjoy the ultimate peace and comfort a massage brings and enjoy the true benefits of this relaxation technique.

 4. Make it a couple or group activity

Massages are also great if you get them with your partner, best friend, or a loved one. This can provide you with an opportunity to reconnect and relax together. Some spas offer special packages for two where you get to be in the same location while getting the massage. This might not be for everyone since some people prefer getting a massage on their own. However, if you feel that a couples massage is for you, definitely check out the possibility of getting one. You can even start with a couples massage and then move on to an individual treatment according to your preference.