Monday, May 26, 2008

McPhee says ‘goodbye’ to Symphony by the Sea

After seven years of great music and community involvement, Jonathan McPhee is saying "goodbye" to Symphony by the Sea at the conclusion of its 27th season. McPhee will conduct two performances featuring cellist Wendy Law. Each concert will be followed by a champagne reception for audiences to extend best wishes to McPhee. All audience members invited.

The concerts and receptions will take place Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. at the Old North Church in Marblehead, and again at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at the Governor's Academy in Byfield. Tickets for both performances are available online, by calling Symphony by the Sea at 978-745-4955, or at the following ticket locations: Arnould Gallery, 111 Washington St., and Comina, 12 Atlantic Ave. in Marblehead; Ted Cole's Music, 30 Church St. in Salem; Borders Books, Route 114, Peabody; The Book Rack, 52 State St., Newburyport. Tickets are $30.

Cellist Law has appeared as soloist with renowned orchestra including the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, Singapore Symphony, Hong Kong Sinfonietta, Russian Philharmonic and Juilliard Orchestra. She has performed throughout North America, appearing in such venues as Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall and Alice Tully Hall, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and Jordan Hall, Boston.

The opening work will be the overture to Mendelssohn's "Son and Stranger," a work written to mark the silver wedding anniversary of Felix Mendelssohn's parents. To brighten the occasion, 20-year-old Felix decided to write a piece of music in their honor, a one-act "liederspiel" (a musical skit mingling spoken lines with songs).

The concert's second piece is Mozart's "Linz Symphony." On the morning of Oct. 31, 1783, Mozart and his wife Constanze arrived in Linz on their way back to Vienna from Salzburg, where they had just spent three months with Leopold, Mozart's father, trying with little success to soften his disapproval of their marriage. Passing through Linz, they were hosted by a certain Count Thun, an ardent lover of Mozart's music. The count invited the couple to stay at his castle, extracting from Mozart the promise that in four days he would conduct the count's orchestra in an all-Mozart concert.

On the evening of the 31st, Mozart wrote to his father, "Because I have not a single symphony with me, I am working at breakneck speed on a new one, which must be ready by Nov. 4." Mozart made his deadline, and the performance came off on schedule.

The concert's third selection is Béla Bartók's "Romanian Folk Dances." Béla Bartók was considered by many to be a musical ethnologist. Béla Bartók was passionately interested in the folk music not only of his native Hungary but of all the Balkan countries as well. The six short "Romanian Folk Dances" were published in 1915.

The concert's final piece features Law in Tchaikovsky's "Rococo Variations." Composed in 1876, a few months before the "Fourth Symphony," Tchaikovsky's "Opus 33" is an attractive, melodic virtuoso piece that stands today as a staple of the cello repertoire.

John in Singapore

AFTER the much-hyped The Police gig drew a bumper crowd and smashed box-office records in Singapore in February, another big name hits the island nation.On May 7, legendary Sir Elton John and his band will play in Singapore as part of The Rocket Man tour at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Regional promoter Live Nation presents the concert and tickets will go on sale tomorrow.

The flamboyant John will be performing with his long-time band, Davey Johnstone (guitars, mandolin, vocals), Guy Babylon (keyboards), Robert Birch (bass, vocals), John Mahon (percussion, drums, vocals) and Nigel Olsson (drums, vocals).

The extraordinary career of John has spanned more than three decades and he has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, making him one of the most popular British artistes of all time.

On this tour, John heads out on the "greatest hits" spin around the globe and his numerous classics include Your Song, Rocket Man, Crocodile Rock, Daniel, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Candle in the Wind, Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Philadelphia Freedom, Tiny Dancer and Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word.

The release of Rocket Man compilation last year also marked a huge anniversary for John – on March 25, 2007, he celebrated his 60th birthday while breaking his own record with an unmatched 60th concert at the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York. No other entertainer has come close to matching this record.

The superstar has also won numerous awards which include the best British male artiste Brit award 1991, inducted into Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame (1994), five Grammy awards (1986-2000), Grammy Legend award (2001), and 11 Ivor Novello awards (1973-2000). John's The Rocket Man tour starts at 8pm on May 7 at Singapore Indoor Stadium.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

The next big Gang

SOUTHEAST Asia’s main talent search series Gang Starz returns to TV3 on April 27.

Gang Starz 2 will see its “live” weekly concerts begin on May 11 for 13 consecutive weeks.

This time, Singapore, the Philippines and Thailand join Malaysia and Indonesia in the regional race to crown the most outstanding new ASEAN pop band.

The first season of Gang Starz last year saw Indonesian R&B trio The Lima comprising Arif, Bony and Tora emerge as champions.
Media Prima Bhd Television Networks chief executive officer Datuk Seri Farid Ridzuan said that while the process for determining the winners remained the same as last year â€" 50 per cent based on professional judges’ marks and the remaining half based on Malaysian viewers’ Short Messaging Service (SMS) votes â€" judging standards were more stringent in the new season.

He added the competition is getting stiffer as Thai, Filipino and Singaporean singers are in the race for the grand prize (RM100,000 and a recording contract).

Rocker Faizal Tahir, whose three-month suspension from live concert performances (because of a chest-baring stunt on 8TV in January) ended last Tuesday, returns as the talent search’s host.

However, co-host Putri Andreanna Syigim Mohamad Razalli has been replaced by her fellow Hot FM presenter Fara Fauzana Mohd Fadzil, the reigning Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian Popular Female Television Presenter.

Another Hot FM presenter, Kartini Kamalul Ariffin, who is also the co-host of women’s issues series 3R, joins as a third co-host.

Farid said the show would be divided into four slots namely, the Gang Starz Concert at 9pm on Sundays, Aksi Gang Starz at 5.30pm on Sundays, Blog Gang Starz at 7.28pm Mondays to Fridays and Teropong Gang Starz at 8.30am Mondays to Fridays.

The weekly concert will see the group which obtains the lowest marks eliminated, while 30-minute Aksi features the challenges faced by the contestants in preparation for the concert.

Blog, which runs for 20 minutes, features the contestants’ daily activities Teropong features the latest updates on the show.

Web surfers may get more updates on the show in the blog, SuperStarBabe and they may join the Gang Starz group on Facebook and www.gua.com.my.

Faizal and Fara will co-host the concert while Kartini (or Tini) will present Aksi.

The permanent jury comprises singer and composer Mohd Faizal Maas or Ajai and Singaporean hip-hopper, actor and television personality Sheikh Haikel, while the team of advisers which guides participants comprises composer and lyricist Azhar Abu Bakar or Azmeer, singer Damien Seet of V. E. and choreographer Sazlan Mat Adnan.

Azmeer and Damien coach the contestants in their vocals and performances while Sazlan takes care of their choreography.

The other advisers are Helen Yap (music director), Hanizam Abdullah (communications), Dr Fazley Yaakob (motivation adviser) and Faizal Hamid.

Farid said auditions were held nationwide for two months beginning January in George Town, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Johor Baru and Kuala Lumpur, as well as in the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.

A total of 12 groups are participating in the contest. They are Malaysia’s One Nation Emcees, Akasia and South Trio, Indonesia’s 3 Voices, D’Reborn and D’Raz, Singapore’s Brown Tone and Faith, the Philippines’s Paragon Child and 3.5 and Thailand’s PZG and Step.

“The programme’s popularity has been proven since it attracted more than 18,000 supporters at its first season’s finals in Stadium Malawati in Shah Alam,” said Farid, adding that the finals also became one of TV3’s top 20 programmes for 2007.

Gang Starz was also shortlisted for the Asian Television Awards in Singapore last year.

Farid said Gang Starz 2 would also be screened in the Philippines, in delayed telecasts.

“The groups from our neighbouring countries will spend four months in Malaysia preparing for and participating in the show.”

Yap said she was confident that the second season of Gang Starz would be more entertaining and exciting as the participation of singers from Thailand and the Philippines would inject greater musical diversity.

Sheikh Haikel said the entry of Thai and Filipino singers would help ASEAN music enthusiasts share ideas on improving their respective music industries and boost performance standards in each participating country.

Faizal said he was happy to return as the show’s host as he was passionate about helping discover the next big regional act.

“There is an immense pool of raw talent in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Singapore. Gang Starz will give the local and regional music industry world-class acts,” he said.

Monday, May 19, 2008

First solo concert for Sabah-born

KUALA LUMPUR: He may be making waves in Taiwan right now, but for singer Gary Chaw Ge, he only had one destination in mind for his first-ever major solo concert â€" Malaysia.

The 29-year Sabah-born Chaw will kick off his upcoming five-stop Gary Chaw Asia Live 2008 concert tour at the Putra Indoor Stadium in Bukit Jalil on June 28, with the remaining stops being Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China.

Announcing the news during a video conference from Taipei yesterday, Chaw said that there was never a doubt in his mind that his debut concert would be anywhere else but Malaysia, despite the fact that many of his peers had opted to hold their solo concerts either in Hong Kong or Taipei first.“I’m a Malaysian, and it’s always been my dream to hold my debut concert in Malaysia. To me, it doesn’t make sense to hold the concert anywhere else,” he said.

Although he was reluctant to reveal details about the concert, he did say that it would be produced by a top producer from Hong Kong and would also feature a guest artiste performance.

Chaw released his debut album Blue in 2006, and has since proven to be one of the most popular Malaysian male artistes based overseas, releasing two more albums including his latest, Super Sunshine earlier this year.

Last year, he was chosen to perform in a show commemorating the tenth anniversary return of Hong Kong to China, the only Malaysian to perform at the show.

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Grand-Flo enters Vietnam tracking solutions industry

KUALA LUMPUR: Grand-Flo Solution Bhd has established a presence in Vietnam, with its Thai-listed associate Simat Technologies Public Company Ltd acquiring a 40% stake each in Sino Company Ltd, a tracking solutions provider, and High Rich Trading & Service Company Ltd, a barcode labels manufacturer, for a total of RM2.4 million cash.

In a statement yesterday, Grand-Flo said the acquisition marked the group's fourth direct presence in the Southeast Asian region after Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. Simat is a 36.75% associated company of Grand-Flo.

Grand-Flo, an integrated tracking solutions provider, signed the sale and purchase agreement in Bangkok yesterday. Signing on behalf of Simat was its chief executive officer Thongkam Manasilapapan, while Nguyen Quyet Thang, president of Sino and High Rich, signed on behalf of the acquired companies.

Grand-Flo's group president and managing director Derrick Tan said: "There is a growing demand for tracking solutions in the country. Among the main factors driving this growth is the increasing inflow of foreign direct investment into Vietnam, backed by more multinational companies setting up their facilities there."

"More noteworthy, too is that Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative manufacturing hub to China. This is evident from the increasing number of customer requests through our local clientele to provide tracking solutions in Vietnam," he added.

Tan said the foreign direct investment inflow for Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment of Vietnam, was expected to reach US$14.5 billion (RM46.4 billion) in 2008, growing 11.5% from last year's estimated US$13 billion.

"This acquisition enables us to not only leverage on the acquired companies' knowledge of the Vietnam tracking solutions industry but also tap into their distribution channel, ensuring an instantaneous entry into the Vietnamese market at a low entry cost. With this acquisition, we are a step closer towards becoming a truly regional player," Tan said.

Under the agreement, Sino and High Rich will provide a combined profit guarantee of about RM2.2 million over two years. Tan said with a total valuation of about RM6 million for both companies, it worked out to an earnings multiple of about 5.5 times.

He added that the acquisition would be financed by Simat's internal funds, which will be paid in three tranches within two years.

Thang said "This partnership with a reputable entity like Grand-Flo is certainly a significant development for us, as we stand to gain from the technological knowhow of the parent company, giving us the competitive edge over the other local tracking solution players."

"Traditionally, we have been strong in the manufacturing sector. With the partnership, we will be able to tap into the group's wider regional customer base in other industries such as electronics and FMCGs (fast moving consumer goods), and more importantly their broader product offerings."

Saturday, May 17, 2008

The 2008 Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival

On the heels of the success of the 2008 Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival, founder and director Lee Brian Schrager and Southern Wine & Spirits of New York are pleased to announce the inaugural Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Food & Wine magazine. The festival will take place this Columbus Day weekend, Friday, October 10th – Sunday, October 12th, in New York City's legendary Meatpacking District and will benefit the hunger-relief programs Food Bank for New York City and Share our Strength.

Since its inception eight years ago, the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival has become one of the most prominent events in the country featuring the biggest and brightest names in the food and beverage industry. Its tremendous success rests upon the close working relationship with members of the South Beach community and local business owners. This year's festival raised close to two million dollars for Florida International University's School of Hospitality and its Southern Wine & Spirits Beverage Management Center.

"Creating a sister event to South Beach in one of the greatest food cities in the world is such a rewarding endeavor. New York is home to some of the most celebrated chefs, many of whom have participated in South Beach. The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival is an opportunity to recognize this contribution and pay homage to the city of New York," explains Schrager of Southern Wine & Spirits. "The Meatpacking District holds such great history. It also features some of the most fashionable boutiques, celebrity chef restaurants and exciting nightlife. As the festival evolves, we seek to continue and foster relationships with neighborhood businesses as well as important community-based organizations such as Friends of the High Line."

The weekend kicks-off Friday evening with Meatpacking Uncorked, a neighborhood block party featuring the area's great restaurants, retailers and live entertainment. On Saturday and Sunday, guests can sample delicacies from their favorite New York City restaurants as well as wines and spirits at the Grand Tasting on Pier 54. In addition, culinary demonstrations, wine seminars, book signings and opportunities to meet renowned food personalities will take place throughout the neighborhood. Building upon the success of 2007, the festival will also include the tradition of SWEET presented by Ferrero Rocher on Saturday night which showcases delicious creations by select Food Network stars and New York City's pastry chefs, chocolatiers, bakers, confectioners and cheese makers.

David Rabin, President of the Meatpacking District Initiative (MPDI) concurs, "When we began MPDI 5 years ago, we hoped that one day we'd grow into an organization that could work on projects like this festival...we are thrilled to be working with Lee Schrager and believe that the MPDI is the quintessential 24/7 NY neighborhood to play host to this event."

Friday, May 16, 2008

MagicBricks.com's Grand Success at the Jaipur Property Bazaar

The Jaipur Property Bazaar'08, an exclusive property fair by MagicBricks.com – India's No. 1 Real Estate Portal, was held at the Birla Auditorium, Jaipur on 15 -16 of March 2008. Over 30 projects were showcased by more than 10 of the major developers, builders, and real estate agents participating at the event.

The exhibition had something for everyone of the thousands of visitors –real estate projects both ready and under construction, residential and commercial properties were on offer all under one roof.

A very pleased Mr. Anand Kumar a businessman from Jaipur said, "There were lots of property options on display at the MagicBricks.com Jaipur Property Show, and for individual buyers like us it was a wonderful opportunity to evaluate different options all under one roof before buying our dream home."

"I found it a good idea, MagicBricks.com has a developed a great concept with this property show inviting all property seekers and sellers to come and meet face to face, it really helps. All in all a MagicBricks.com put together a good show." added Mr. Rajat Shekhawat, another property seeker at the event.

Reputed names that participated at the event included market leaders like BDI Group, My Liberty Homes, Yaduvanshi Developers, Jain Realtors, Tivoli Holiday Village, Gold Dreams Builders & Developers, Ansal API, Homz 'R' US, Octagon, Dream City Projects amongst others.

Speaking about the event, Mr. Padm Vijayvergiya, G.M Marketing, BDI GROUP said, "The Property Bazaars organized by MagicBricks.com have always been very successful events and, we received a good response from property seekers. The recent Property Bazaars where we participated, covering North India, were professionally managed, well-organised events. We look forward to continuing and developing our rapport with MagicBricks.com and participating in the future events as well."

Mr. Aditya Choudhary, Managing Director, Utopia Buildcon remarked, "The property bazaar organized by MagicBricks.com was a very successful event and, builders and developers like us received good response from property seekers."

"The property fair organized by MagicBricks.com was a big successes, they brought genuine buyers with their strong media plan and excellent event management. Their event attracted many walk-ins for us. We look forward to the forthcoming fairs of MagicBricks.com across India and abroad." added Mr. Rohit Suri, CMD, My Liberty Homes.

As the city prepares to invest in the booming real-estate market, investors and individuals arrived at the fair in search of new projects, ideas and opportunities, and got what they were looking for!

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Remote Lands Offers Exclusive Formula 1 Grand Prix Experience

Remote Lands, the world's foremost luxury travel designer focused exclusively on Asia, is offering clients the one-of-a-kind opportunity of attending Singapore's Formula One Grand Prix, taking place this September. While Asia hosts several Grand Prix races annually, the Singapore event is of special interest as this will be the world's first Formula One Grand Prix taking place at night. All races begin at 8:00 p.m. and are held on the streets of Singapore, not on track circuits. Racing enthusiasts can avail themselves of Remote Lands' Formula One Grand Prix Experience, a five-night journey from September 25-29, which includes first-class round-trip international airfare, prime viewing locations for the races, a private tour of the pits to meet the drivers and view the F1 cars up close, and more.

This unique Experience begins at $50,000 per person, and can be customized based on additional services such as private jet charters, helicopters, VIP audiences, and personal staff including chefs, trainers, concierges and other professionals.

The Formula One Grand Prix Experience includes five nights at the Fullerton Hotel, one of Singapore's most historic, luxurious properties. The races begin Friday, September 26, with preliminaries taking place on the first two nights and the final taking place on Sunday, September 28. Guests will spend their first day in Singapore at leisure, preparing for the events to come. At nightfall, they will be personally escorted to the race pits to meet with the drivers and to see their F1 cars. Following, they will be transported to one of three prime race-viewing locations of their choice. On the first night, a private compartment on the Singapore Flyer, a giant observation wheel, will offer panoramic, 360-degree views of the city and of the races themselves; on September 27, a luxury yacht docked at the city's downtown Marina Bay will be the site from which the races will be viewed; and on the final night, guests will watch from the Fullerton Hotel, which has balconies facing the street and unobstructed views of the race taking place below. One of Singapore's top chefs will be on hand to prepare special meals during the races, and each viewing location will have private butler service.

During the days and between races, Remote Lands will arrange for guests to explore the city, planning a range of extraordinary, insider experiences. Based on guests' preferences, these could include spending time on a kelong, a house on stilts in which fishermen families in Singapore live; a private guided tour and a spice tasting at the Singapore Culinary Academy and Spice Garden, At Sunrice; and visits to ateliers of local designers, who will create traditional garments for each guest.

For racing enthusiasts that cannot attend this event, there are races elsewhere in Asia for which Remote Lands can create extraordinary Experiences. These include Sinopec Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, which is scheduled for October 17-19, 2008, and the Petronas Malaysian Grand Prix race in Kuala Lumpur, which occurs annually and will take place next in spring 2009.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

SINGAPORE: S'pore gains a new dimension, on Google Earth

A growing number of businesses and individuals are customising parts of the map of Singapore on Google Earth, and are using it as a marketing tool, to exchange notes, or to indulge in a hobby that is catching on -- 3-D modelling.

Google Earth lets users view a topographical map of practically any spot on earth. Users can zoom in even on street corners -- clicking on a magnifying glass icon, for example, could give you a view of the top of your apartment block.

The original imagery is two-dimensional, but users are working to change that.

Creating 3-D models of real buildings and forming a virtual city online are among the activities generating the biggest buzz online.

Mr Nathan Choe is among those who spend hours creating virtual buildings. The 19-year-old undergraduate at the Illinois Institute of Technology's College of Architecture says he is 'passionate about building models'.

So far, he has built over 15 of them, mostly of buildings in the Central Business District.

Among the growing band of 3-D modellers flocking to Google Earth is a group of Temasek Polytechnic students who have created a 3-D model of their campus.

Ms Sim Poh Leng, 20; and Mr Ryan Chia and Mr Benjamin Liew, both 19, took six months to finish the job, and the polytechnic now intends to put it to good use.

It wants to let students access courses within the campus using Google Earth.

Mr Oh Chin Lock, a lecturer at the poly's infocomm and IT school, said: 'We might do this within the next six months -- upload YouTube videos of lectures or maybe even a live feed via webcams. Students just need to click on their faculty and view the pop-up video.'

Other schools, like Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), have jumped on the bandwagon, while other modellers have created 3-D representations of attractions like the Singapore Flyer and the route for the F1 race in September.

Even condominium residents have put up models of their blocks -- The Straits Times found at least two, Springdale and Goldenhill Park.

Companies -- from small set-ups to restaurants and hotels -- are also turning to Google Earth to raise their visibility. The firms have added information to their locations on the map.

Clicking on the location for the Pan Pacific Hotel, for instance, brings up a page showing a picture of the hotel, with its address and Web link, as well as reviews.

Since Alenu IT Business Solutions, a small firm in River Valley Road, added its contact details and website address to its location on the map last year, it claims it has gained potential partners and clients 'from all over the world'.

Temasek Polytechnic's Mr Oh thinks property developers can also capitalise on the new trend. 'They can show the plot of land and the 3-D model of their property even before it is built. This will benefit overseas buyers too,' he said.

It is not just businesses that are getting a boost from Google Earth, though.

Two Google Earth Singapore communities have sprung up online -- Earth@sg and SinGeo -- and their numbers are increasing.

The members discuss issues and create new uses for Google Earth and Maps. For example, SinGeo has created a simple animation of dengue hot spots in Singapore, which can be uploaded and viewed on Google Earth.

Earth@sg had 40,000 unique visitors the past month, up from 15,000 in the same period last year. SinGeo has on average 37,200 hits monthly, up from 6,200 last year.

Software developer Jon Petersen, 44, who started SinGeo, said there is another use that has not been tapped yet: tourism.

But to do this, he added, Singaporeans should get on the map quickly. 'We should start putting nice photos, videos, and any other information of our city attractions on Google Earth.'

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

More Brits heading to Singapore

The number of Britons travelling to Singapore grew over the course of 2007.

This is according to new figures from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), which show that 496,000 UK holidaymakers headed to the south-east Asian city-state last year.

Other statistics from the body also suggest that British visitor numbers grew by 1% in February, reaching 51,000 for the month, TravelDailyNews reports.

Travellers from Germany, Spain, Russia, Denmark and France were also found to have travelled in high numbers to Singapore last year.

'Europeans are increasingly curious about Asia and Singapore is an ideal destination for them to experience the colour and vibrancy of Asia, while at the same time enjoying a lifestyle experience,' commented Oliver Chong, regional director of Europe for the STB.

He added that those returning to the region after more than five years away would be surprised at how much Singapore has changed in that space of time.

Monday, May 12, 2008

Saltman off to a flyer in Singapore as he bids to qualify for Open

LOTHIANS ace Lloyd Saltman's hopes of a return to the Open championship field were given an early lift in the first round of the International Final Qualifier at the Sentosa club in Singapore today.
The Craigielaw rookie, who won the silver medal as the top amateur in the 2005 championship at St Andrews, fired a one-under 71 over the Serapong course and shares eighth place, two shots behind leading trio Danny Chia, Angelo Que and Englishman Yasin Ali.

Saltman, looking to bounce back from missing the cut in the Asian Tour International at the weekend, made a flying start to his challenge with a birdie on the first hole. The former Walker Cup star picked up another stroke at the 12th and, despite a bogey at 15, he still finished well in sight of a top four place needed to secure a trip to Royal Birkdale in the summer.

While Saltman pushed himself into contention, his fellow Scots all saw their chances suffer a blow. Ross Bain, leading on the Asian Tour at the weekend until a final r
ound collapse, appeared to be suffering a hangover from that event and toiled to a four-over 76. Simon Dunn also found the going tough and slumped to a 78.

Other players who struggled included Edinburgh-born Welshman Rhys Davies who had a 78 while former Asian Tour No.1 Jyoti Randhawa and rising Korean star Noh Seung-yul could only muster 77s.

ALISON NICHOLAS has named former US and British Women's Open champion Liselotte Neumann and England's Joanne Morley as her assistant captains for next year's Solheim Cup in Illinois. Previous European captains have had only one assistant, but Nicholas believes that having one based in America and another in Europe could help her side achieve their first victory on United States soil.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

New route off to flyer

Travellers can say goodbye to red eye flights with a new direct daylight return service between Melbourne and Darwin.

Fares will start at $89 to Melbourne and $189 to Singapore. The new flights will see an extra 250,000 seats coming through Darwin every year.

Jetstar general manager Unni Menon said Darwin had the potential to play a "very critical part'' in the company's expansion into the Asia-Pacific region.

"We're here for the long term. This is a deliberate strategy on our part,'' he said.

"This is not a here today, gone tomorrow scenario.''

He said the company had plans of "hubbing'' in Darwin by bringing domestic flights to the Top End and seamlessly connecting overseas.

The Darwin hub could see up to seven aircraft and 250 staff and their families based in the Top End.

But Mr Menon said Jetstar was still in negotiations with the Territory Government and Darwin Airport to bring the extra flights to the Top End.

I'm hoping these discussions will be finalised in the very near future,'' he said.

"It's just a series of issues we need to work through. Governments have due processes and we respect that.''

Mr Menon said Darwin Airport officials indicated they would consider "incremental expansion'' to the terminal.

Chief Minister Paul Henderson welcomed more competition in the marketplace.

"Now mum and dad can go to Melbourne for the weekend -- dad to go to the footy, mum to go shopping and you don't have to catch the red eye,'' he said.

Mr Henderson said the new flights would open Darwin to Asia and Europe.

He said Darwin's proximity to Jetstar's Asian customer base was a great competitive advantage.

Saturday, May 10, 2008

Singapore Flyer dwarfs London Eye

The largest giant observation wheel in the world has opened in Singapore.

The Singapore Flyer stands at around 165 metres (541 feet) tall, dwarfing the London Eye which is 135 metres (442 feet) high.

It has 28 capsules each capable of carrying 28 people and passengers will pay just over £10 for a 30-minute ride.

At the official opening ceremony, the country's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told the crowd the wheel was set to become "one of the busiest Flyers in the world".

Florian Bollen, the chairman of Singapore Flyer, said the wheel is built differently from the London Eye.

He said: "The rim is built like a ladder, not on three-dimensional structure as the London Eye is."

Friday, May 9, 2008

Visitors to Singapore are spoilt for choice - by world-class shows, dance parties, arts performances and much more

Singapore's entertainment landscape has changed dramatically in recent times. Visitors to the islands today are spoilt for choice with the variety of fantastic entertainment options, from world-class shows and performances to dusk-till-dawn dance parties and brand new nightspots.Notably, a number of large-scale nightlife developments have launched over the past two years. The rejuvenated Clarke Quay along the burgeoning Singapore River precinct is shaping up as Singapore's 24-hour entertainment hub.

The Cannery is home to the renowned Ministry of Sound, as well as other international names in entertainment, including Kandi Bar by Hed Kandi, FashionBar by Fashion TV and Barfly by Buddha Bar. Clarke Quay also recently saw the opening of brand new nightspots including The Arena and Lunar, which add to its already vibrant bar and club scene that features popular offerings such as Attica, The Pump Room and Cuba Libre.

The Southern Waterfront precinct witnessed two significant additions to the party scene early this year. The much-anticipated mega complex St James Power Station offers 70,000 square feet of party space and nine clubs under one roof, each with a different concept. Over on Sentosa Island, Café Del Mar opened on Siloso Beach in January, bringing one of the Ibiza's party scene's finest names to Singapore.

Those in search of a cosy niche experience will find that there are some highly popular boutique clubs and bars emerging all around Singapore, such as Butter Factory, Archipelago Bar, Timbre and Eski Bar. More chill-out options can be found at Tanglin Village – a brand new lifestyle cluster at Dempsey Hill that offers many intimate wine bars.

Zouk, indisputably a modern Singapore icon, continues to reign as one of the most influential dance clubs in the world, attracting the most acclaimed DJs to its turntables each week. Its signature dance music festival, ZoukOut, marked its seventh year in 2007 by welcoming 23,000 party-goers – of whom 8,200 were tourists.

Beyond nightspots, Singapore boasts a year-round calendar of events and performances of all kinds, including world famous musicals and concerts by internationally acclaimed stars – in 2008 the Police, Santana and Harry Connick Jnr will all be making their mark in Singapore.

To get a real feel for the city, take a cruise down the Singapore River in a traditional bumboat and marvel at the contrast between the historic colonial buildings, modern skyscrapers, old godowns and shophouses. Or for something a little bit different and a whole lot of fun, take a combined city and harbour tour with a converted warcraft via DUCKtours – a boat on monstrous wheels which takes you around Singapore's landmarks by land and sea.For another taste of non-stop action, head to the unmissable experience that is the island of Sentosa – from adventure rides to historical exhibits, shopping and entertainment to stunning beaches, whatever you are looking for, you're bound to find it here.

One of Singapore's most well-loved visitor experiences happens after dark – the famous Night Safari at Singapore Zoo. During a nocturnal visit, you see a very different world to the daytime one. You set out – on foot or by tram – through the different themed zones, each of which simulates a particular area, such as the African savannah or South American pampas. With more than 900 creatures for company, this is an exciting adventure you'll remember forever.

The much anticipated Singapore Flyer became both the world's highest observation wheel and Singapore's most visible attraction when it opened in March 2008. At 165 metres (541 feet) above ground – the height of a 42-storey building – it offers its passengers a breathtaking unobstructed view, stretching for 45km (28 miles) around, out over the China Sea and into the neighbouring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia. The Flyer also offers an array of facilities, including a central atrium with a recreated Asian rainforest, an outdoor amphitheatre and an al fresco dining promenade running along the seafront. It is also easily accessible by train, bus, car and even boat.

Thursday, May 8, 2008

Singapore is one of Asia's great shopping capitals

Singapore's passion for fashion is perhaps only equalled by its love of food. And with internationally famous flagship stores moving in, plus a rejuvenation of its most famous shopping street, Orchard Road, under way, Singapore is set to become even more celebrated as one of Asia's fashion and shopping capitals.

Retail therapy and great dining out can be enjoyed till well into the evening. Late Night Shopping takes place every Saturday and features great shoppers' deals and mall promotions, not to mention the on-street performances that add even more vibrancy to Singapore's premier shopping strip.Apart from the wide array of choices available – enough to satisfy any fashionista's wildest dreams – shopping in Singapore is also synonymous with quality and value. In addition to the latest merchandise, ranging from fantastic fashion and lifestyle treats to cutting-edge technology, shoppers are always assured of authenticity and quality service. The most popular items are fashion and accessories, consumer electronics and timepieces. Three in four visitors to Singapore make a visit to Orchard Road, making it the most visited free-access attraction here.

International labels with flagship stores in Singapore range from Cartier to Manolo Blahnik and from Van Cleef & Arpels to Prada. New malls include The Central, along the Singapore River opposite Clarke Quay, and Vivocity, on the southern waterfront near the Singapore Cruise Centre. The newly rejuvenated Orchard Road will include three new malls, which will open in 2008 and 2009.

But Singapore isn't all Gucci and Jimmy Choo, of course. Ethnic quarters around the city centre beckon visitors with their local foodstuffs and multicultural items that make wonderful gifts and souvenirs, plus arts and antiques from four corners of the globe. There are plenty of treasures to be discovered, from traditional Chinese medicine and beautiful fabrics on Arab Street in Kampong Glam, to saris and spices in Little India.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

More Gulf tourists head to Singapore

Singapore received 98,574 tourists from the Middle East, mostly the GCC region, in 2007.
This represents a 73% increase over 2002, when there were 57,000 visitors from the Middle East.
Singapore Tourism Board executives said they expected the number of Gulf visitors to the city state to go up in the coming years because of improved air connectivity between the two regions.
More than 4mn passengers use Singapore's Changi Airport every year, with some 70 airlines flying to more than 160 cities in 53 countries.
STB said the introduction of daily direct flights between Doha and Singapore by Qatar Airways and non-stop flights by Singapore Airlines and Emirates between Dubai and the city state had given a further push to tourism.
"We expect more tourists from Qatar and the GCC region this year particularly due to our hosting the Formula 1 World Championship in September," STB executives said at a presentation for Middle East journalists at the Tourism Court on the Sentosa Island here.
The 2008 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix is not only F1's first street race in Asia but also the first-ever night event in its history. To be held on public roads around the Marina Bay precinct, the event is expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.
Singapore received some 10.3mn visitors in 2007, registering a 5.4% growth over 2006. Indonesia, China, Australia, India and Malaysia accounted for 51% of total visitor arrivals.
STB said it is targeting some 17mn visitors by 2015. The city state's government has set up a S$2bn Tourism Development Fund.
Singapore posted an estimated S$13.8bn in tourism receipts in 2007, representing an 11.3% increase over the previous year. This exceeded the target of S$13.6bn and set a new record for tourism receipts.
The hotel industry saw both the average room rate and average occupancy rate setting new highs. The total room revenue was estimated at a record S$1.8bn, an increase of 22.8% over 2006.
The average room rate for 2007 was estimated at S$202, up 23.1% over 2006. The average occupancy rate for hotels was estimated to have reached 87%, a 1.7% increase over the previous year, STB said.

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Sweet treats for mum at The Sentosa

The Mother's Day Brunch features an impressive array of sashimi and a lavish international seafood selection such as freshly-shucked oysters of the season, succulent rock lobsters and crabs. Roast Wagyu Beef takes centre-stage on the carving board while tantalising Pan-fried Foie Gras, a well-loved signature specialty of The Cliff will be prepared a-la-minute. Live stations include Steamed Live Prawns with Herbs and Chinese Wine and more. At the barbecue, servings of sizzling slipper lobsters, steaks and tandoori meats with freshly-baked naans add to the overall culinary journey.

Delight in the aroma of freshly-baked waffles and top them with compotes and ice-cream. Tempting desserts include popular cheeses by renowned cheese masters Phillipe Olivier and Ceneri from France, and premium Italian, Australian and New Zealand farmhouses, home-made pastries, a chocolate fountain with marshmallow or strawberry skewers and exotic tropical fruits.

Guests can also look forward to a free flow of Duval Leroy champagne, Old and New World wines, Dessert and Port wines as well as San Pellegrino fruit drinks to complement the delightful brunch.

Children will have their own brand of fun in a specially decorated function room with Children's Buffet and creative pursuits. Delicious hotdogs, hamburgers, pasta, ice-cream and pop-corn are but part of the spread.

Exclusively for Mother's Day, children can decorate freshly-baked cakes with dad to show their appreciation for mum. Capture the heart-warming moment with a complimentary family portrait shot at The Pavilion, the perfect backdrop with tranquil lily ponds. Mums will also receive a Spa Botanica gift.

Monday, May 5, 2008

Escape Of JI Leader Mars Singapore's Reputation

The escape of Singapore Jemaah Islamiah network leader Mas Selamat Kastari from a detention cell here in February has put a dent on Singapore's reputation, Deputy Prime Minister Prof S. Jayakumar said Monday.

"It is a blot on the security agencies copybook, a dent on Singapores reputation, and a reverse in keeping Singapore secure from terrorist attacks," he said when opening an international security conference here.

He said he could not help recalling the chilling warning when one of Singapore's security agencies, the Internal Security Department (ISD), suffered a major setback when the JI leader escaped from its detention centre on Feb 27.

Jayakumar, who is also Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Law, said Singaporeans were shocked and alarmed and they were critical of its security agencies, particularly the ISD, as there must have been a serious security lapse at the detention centre.

He said the circumstances surrounding Mas Selamats escape were being thoroughly investigated by a Committee of Inquiry led by a retired High Court judge.

The Criminal Investigation Department was also looking into whether there was any criminal wrong-doing related to the escape, he said at the 2nd Asia-Pacific Programme for Senior National Security Officers (APPSNO) organised by Singapore's National Security Coordination Secretariat and the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Sentosa Island.

Since the escape, Mas Selamat has yet to be traced although the Singaporean authorities launched a massive manhunt for the fugitive involving thousands of police and military personnel combing the whole island republic.

Jayakumar, however, commended all its security agencies - the ISD, Singapore police force, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority and other agencies, as well as those from the Singapore armed forces - for maintaining high levels of vigilance and mounting sustained operations in an on-going effort to capture Mas Selamat.

He also praised Singaporeans for coming together in a common effort to locate the fugitive and helping the authorities by putting up posters, sharing information on possible sightings and even offering rewards from their own pockets.

Jayakumar said the ISD officers had not been paralysed or demoralised following the incident, and they were as determined now as they were seven years ago when they first identified the JI threat and took prompt action before the JI could perpetrate any terrorist acts in Singapore.

He said the international community needed to be resilient and be prepared for any eventuality, be it a terrorist threat, catastrophy or natural disaster.

The minister said they could have the best formulated plans for various scenarios such as threats to aviation, maritime and public transport security and to key installations, or they could harden these targets with additional security measures, best trained security personnel and the latest technology.

"But it would not be enough because there would still be vulnerable soft targets in the community, and the terrorist movement, for example, had shown an uncanny ability to survive and find new ways to launch attacks despite the best efforts of the international community."

He said national security strategies could not rest alone on the pillar of deterrence and protection, but also on building up resilience and strengthening the citizens psychological resolve to overcome crises.

This mental toughness and preparedness was essential for the society to recover to a state of normalcy as soon as possible, he added.

The minister said the task of strengthening and developing community resilience in the globalised world was becoming increasingly difficult and challenging because societies were getting more complex and diverse in terms of racial composition, cultural practices and religious beliefs.

Building resilience could not be done overnight as it would take years to build understanding, trust and confidence as in the case of Singapore, which took 40 years to nurture racial and religious harmony in the city-state, he said.

Sunday, May 4, 2008

‘Meet & Stay’ package for corporate meetings at Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa

Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa, Singapore's stylish new resort getaway, has launched a new 'Meet & Stay' package designed for groups of at least ten, priced at S$395 for each guest.

The new package includes overnight accommodation, breakfast for one and lunch at the stylish new 'urban lifestyle retreat' overlooking Sentosa's popular Palawan Beach, just ten minutes from the city centre.

Designed for corporate or stylish social gatherings, the package also includes free use of a meeting room with presentation facilities from 9–5pm, and two coffee/tea breaks with snacks.

Accommodation for guests is in a well-appointed Deluxe Room, complete with a welcome drink & fruit basket.

Guests or delegates also receive a 25% discount voucher for food & beverage at the resort's signature restaurant, Shutters.

The package rate is subject to 10% service charge and 7% GST, with reservations subject to availability of meeting rooms & guest rooms.

Amara Sanctuary is a stylish and unique new venue for business meetings and stylish events on Sentosa.

The resort combines colonnaded colonial architecture, contemporary design, a secluded tropical landscape, fine dining and 'casual chic' style.

Recreational facilities include three swimming pools, including one infinity-edged pool on a rooftop overlooking the South China Sea reserved exclusively for adults.

A health and wellness spa with fully equipped gym opens later this year.

Singapore's colonial architectural heritage is retained through the conversion of a historic 1930s British Sergeants Quarters building into sensational Courtyard and Verandah Suites.

The resort's Japanese fine dining restaurant, Si Bon, was converted from the oldest chapel on Sentosa and is the only restaurant in Singapore serving the authentic Japanese delicacy "Kushikatsu", or skewer cuisine.

All-day restaurant, Shutters, serves modern intercontinental cuisine whilst Thanying is an authentic Royal Thai restaurant and Silk Road of The Sea is a new beachfront seafood restaurant serving cuisine which traces the culinary footsteps of legendary seafarer Admiral Zheng from the Mediterranean to the South China Sea.

The 121-room Amara Sanctuary is owned and managed by Singapore's Amara Group and was recently honoured in the URA Architectural Heritage Awards which recognize developments restoring listed buildings and monuments to their former glory.

Saturday, May 3, 2008

Singapore SGX opens first overseas office in China

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) (SGXL.SI: Quote, Profile, Research) opened its first overseas office in Beijing on Friday, to serve its large and growing customer base in China.

Of 290 foreign companies listed on the exchange, 141 are Chinese and many are private firms, a sector SGX -- Asia's second-largest listed bourse -- will continue to target.

"That 38 figure will continue to grow," Hsieh Fu Hua, the chief executive of SGX, told reporters, referring to the percentage of foreign companies listed on the exchange.

"SGX groups the largest number of listed private Chinese companies outside of the mainland," said Lloyd Loh, the head of the new office. "Our strategy is to continue focusing on the private sector."

The move comes after the London Stock Exchange opened a Beijing office this year while the New York Stock Exchange -- a unit of NYSE Euronext (NYX.N: Quote, Profile, Research) -- and Nasdaq Stock Market Inc (NDAQ.O: Quote, Profile, Research) moved in last year.

The global interest in Chinese companies' initial public offerings was prompted by a series of record-breaking share issues and a surge in local stock markets in 2006 and 2007.

Investors are still keen on mainland companies, but listings have been cooled by a 49 percent plunge in the benchmark Shanghai index .SSEC from its October peak.

"There is still a pipeline of Chinese IPOs," said Lawrence Wong, head of SGX's listing unit. "But global markets are all down now.

Friday, May 2, 2008

Hong Kong the World's Most Expensive City for Rental Accommodation According to ECA International Survey

Hong Kong remains the world's most expensive city to rent accommodation and Asia is home to six of the world's top ten most costly rental locations, according to a survey conducted by ECA International, the world's leading knowledge and solutions provider for international human resources professionals.

Undertaken annually, ECA's Accommodation Survey ranking compares rental prices in 92 locations worldwide. The survey data is used in ECA's Accommodation Reports, which ECA Member companies and clients consult when calculating housing policy and allowances for their internationally mobile staff.

On average a three-bedroom apartment in a popular expatriate area in Hong Kong costs approximately US$ 9,734 a month. This is 13 per cent higher than a year ago, when the equivalent apartment would have cost approximately US$ 8,592, and 15 per cent more expensive than Moscow, the survey's second most expensive location for rental accommodation.

"A number of factors contribute to Hong Kong's high rental prices. These include a lack of space which makes land expensive and an increasing demand for high-end developments as many companies, international finance firms in particular, expand their presence here," said Lee Quane, General Manager of ECA in Hong Kong.

The gap between Hong Kong and Tokyo, Asia's second most expensive location according to the survey and ranked 4th globally, is widening since rental prices in the Japanese capital have remained relatively stable in the last year.

"However, other cities in the region look set to catch up. The average monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in Singapore, ranked 9th globally, is typically US$ 4,460. While this is half as much as an expatriate would pay for similar accommodation in Hong Kong, tight supply has pushed prices in Singapore up by a massive 33 per cent between 2006 and
2007 – the biggest increase within Asia and almost 2.5 times more than the increases experienced on the Hong Kong rental market in the same period.

"Exchange rate fluctuations play an important role when making direct comparisons of residential property to let between cities worldwide,"
continues Quane. "When using the US dollar as a point of reference it is not surprising that rental prices have gone up in locations such as Singapore or Shanghai, where the local currency has strengthened against the dollar. However, this makes rental rises in Hong Kong, where the currency is pegged to the weak US dollar, all the more significant."

Six of the top 10 most expensive locations in the world are in Asia, with Mumbai (6th), Seoul (7th), Singapore (9th) and Ho Chi Minh City (10th) joining Hong Kong and Tokyo. Moscow, New York, London and Caracas make up the 10 most expensive cities globally to rent a three-bedroom apartment.

"On average rental prices in Asia are approximately US$ 3,820; well above the global average of US$ 2,950. A robust economy and increased demand for high-end accommodation have been instrumental in driving rental prices up,"
explains Quane.

High rental prices in Moscow, New York, Tokyo, London and Seoul largely reflect high living costs in these locations, while in, Mumbai and Ho Chi Minh City increasing demand has pushed prices up. Caracas – which has seen the survey's greatest rental price rise (41 per cent) – makes the top ten since it is not unusual for dangerous locations, such as this, to be expensive for foreigners who will prefer to reside in more costly compounds where security is good.

According to the survey, Karachi is the cheapest city in the world to rent a three-bedroom apartment, with the average monthly rent there nearly 17 times cheaper than the equivalent in Hong Kong. Atlanta, Nairobi, Vilnius and Guangzhou are the five cheapest cities to rent.

In India, rental prices in Mumbai have increased by 21 per cent in the last twelve months – the second biggest increase in the region after Singapore.
The city is the 3rd most expensive location in Asia and ranks 6th globally.
Its rental prices have increased more than 1.5 times more than Hong Kong.
New Delhi, which is also rising up the ranking, is in 22nd position globally. A low supply of quality apartments coupled with increased demand in the sector is behind these high positions in the ranking.

In China, rental prices in Shanghai, ranked 12th globally, continue to rise at a steady rate as demand increases. Beijing is ranked 16th. Rents in Guangzhou, placed 91st, rose by 18 per cent between 2006 and 2007 mainly as a result of rapidly increasing demand.

"While prices in Beijing are likely to rise sharply this year, due to the Olympics, the effects of this are unlikely to be long lasting and rents after the games should return to their normal levels. But for companies with assignees with a tenancy renewal coming up before the games start it is advisable to negotiate the renewal as early as possible," said Quane.

Worldwide
Some of the survey's biggest rank movements have been experienced in the Middle East with Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Doha rising 19, 17 and 12 places respectively. This is generally the result of high demand that has not been met with a supply of suitable properly. Despite a slowdown in the rate rental prices have been increasing, Dubai, ranked 13th, remains the most expensive location for renting property in the Middle East.

The biggest rental increases in Europe have been in Moscow (by 29%) between 2006 and 2007, consolidating its position as the most expensive European location followed by London and Paris. Bucharest, which has experienced rental prices rises of 23 per cent this year, is the region's biggest climber up the ranking. Vilnius is the cheapest place to rent a 3-bedroom apartment in the region.

Lagos, ranked 18th, is the most expensive African location, while Nairobi (89) has the continent's least expensive rental property for expatriates.

In Australasia, rental property is more expensive in Sydney (32) than in Perth (49); followed by Auckland (61), Melbourne (71), and Adelaide (78).

About ECA International (www.eca-international.com) ECA International is the world's largest membership organisation for international human resources professionals, serving a global network of over 4000 HR professionals in 71 countries. The leading provider of online data, software solutions and advice for more than 1500 international companies, ECA's innovative approach has been providing cost-effective solutions to international HR management since 1971.

ECA's services cover: cost of living indices, accommodation and benefits, expatriate and local remuneration, tax, social security and labour legislation, international assignment packages, daily business expenses rates and consultancy specialising in international HR policies.

About ECA's Accommodation Survey
ECA's Accommodation Survey is used to compile individual Accommodation Reports. Each report is a guide to the costs and procedures of renting expatriate accommodation within particular cities around the world. They are used by multinational companies to assist them in providing suitable accommodation allowances to their expatriate workforce in their locations of operation. Accommodation Reports are available to non-members companies as well as ECA member clients.

ECA has been producing Accommodation reports since 1996. ECA produces reports for 115 cities. These cities are chosen because ECA Member companies employ a significant number of expatriates in these locations and reliable rental prices and information are available. For the purposes of year on year comparison 92 cities have been used in the rankings.

To ensure impartiality and maintain accuracy of information, data from a number of sources is used to compile each Accommodation report. The principal sources being: ECA survey data, specially collected surveys and information from letting agents and relocation agents.

The rental prices were collected in September 2007 and have been converted into US$ for ease of comparison using the September 2007 exchange rate.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Singapore ranks as best place for Asians to live

Singapore maintains the highest quality of life in the world for Asian assignees, according to the latest location ranking survey on expatriate living conditions by ECA International, an organization for international professionals.

Undertaken annually, ECA International's Location Ranking Survey compares living standards in 254 locations globally according to categories such as climate, health services, housing and utilities, isolation, social network and leisure facilities, personal safety and political tensions.

"High quality infrastructure and health facilities, combined with low health risks, air pollution, crime rates and a cosmopolitan population make Singapore a very appealing location for Asians to live. Although we did see a small deterioration in some factors, such as air quality and accommodation, in 2007, it still retains the status of a location with the best quality of living for assignees in Asia," explained Lee Quane, general manager of ECA International in Hong Kong, which is ranked 15.

"While Hong Kong has seen an improvement in some categories, such as personal security, air pollution remains the biggest cause for its inferior position to that of Singapore in our ranking," he said.

The Japanese cities of Kobe and Yokohama are the only other Asian destinations in the top 10, ranked third and eighth respectively. Joining them in the top 10 destinations for Asian expatriates are Sydney, Melbourne, Copenhagen, Canberra, Vancouver, Wellington and Dublin.

"Locations have been ranked against an Asian base. Since quality of living is relative to where someone comes from and where they are going, our scores take into account the home and destination country. Rankings, therefore, vary according to the base used," added Quane.

Therefore, while Singapore is top for Asians, it comes in at only 53 for Western Europeans. "Although still a great place to come to, distance from home, differences in culture, language and climate all make it relatively harder for a European to live here than Copenhagen, for example, which tops the rankings for Europeans," explained Quane.

Looking at the 49 Asian locations included in the survey, the next best places to reside are Hong Kong and Tokyo, both in 15th position in the world ranking, followed by Taipei (57), Macau (59), Bangkok (60) and the Malaysian cities of Georgetown and Kuala Lumpur, both ranked 63.

Georgetown has seen the biggest improvement in scores of all the Asian cities, reflected in an 11-place rise in the ranking, due to improvements in recreation, housing and personal security situations. Other locations in Asia which witnessed a noteworthy rise in the ranking are Hong Kong (eight places), Phnom Penh and Seoul (both by seven places).

Shanghai (78) tops the list of Chinese locations in the survey, while Xi'an

(166) is China's least favorable location in the survey. Beijing, at 112th position, comes lower than second-tier cities such as Nanjing (89) and Tianjin (110), due principally to less favorable air quality and personal security.

Of the Indian locations included in the survey, Chennai (138) scores the most favorably ahead of Bangalore (153), Mumbai (156), New Delhi (169) and Kolkata (193).

"There are still only five Asian locations in the top 50 globally, nevertheless across Asia, we are slowly seeing improvements in a number of areas. These can broadly be attributed to an improved standard of living resulting from recent consistent economic growth in the major Asian economies," said Quane.

For Asians thinking of heading to the Americas, Vancouver remains the most favorable location in the region, indicated by its seventh place in the ranking. The Canadian city is followed by San Francisco (11), Washington, D.C. (23) and Toronto (35).

Kontera Tag