Sunday, 26th July 2015 Our SG50 Weekend countdown continued with a visit to the Istana grounds today. The skies were generally clear even though we welcomed the slight drizzle in the afternoon to bring down the scorching heat to a much bearable portion. It was helpful in that the roads leading to the Istana Building were lined with huge rain-trees that provided a welcome respite from the sunny weather. The State Rooms were also opened today and we had a rare glimpse into the elaborate interiors. This was a great Sunday to be out and about as we relived our NS memories where we were posted here during our Active Service.... read more

Friday, 17th July 2015 We wouldn't coin it as a perfect staycation as we believed that the Carlton could do much better. The deluxe rooms that we stayed in were refurbished recently even though the separate shower stalls leave much room to be desired. The smallish design does not allow you to leave your clothes inside the shower as they would get wet easily. The smallish size extended to the outdoor pool which was inadequately designed to cope with the 900 odd guestrooms. Coffee sachets were from "Super" which did not enhance the overall stay experience. As far as staycation is concerned, I would probably avoid this 4 star property in future. The highlight of our stay was probably a nice congee lunch at Imperial and a great shopping experience at Raffles City Marketplace. Our dinner ... read more

Saturday, 13th June 2015 As part of the SG50 celebrations, my folks at home were given complimentary tickets while I was entitled to a 50% discount off the admission fees to the Gardens By the Bay. This was an impromptu weekend outing as my folks have up till 31st August to utilised their free entries. Having only been to the outer rims of the gardens in the past, I was delighted to be able to make full use of my discounted entry into the 2 domes this morning. Upon arrival at the Cloud Forest enclosure, we were greeted with much excitement by the 7 storeys high waterfall. This was one big green wall project that required plenty of efforts and costly regime to maintain in a controlled environment. Walking through the mist-covered forest canopy at the ... read more

Saturday, 16th May 2015 A visit to the Punggol Settlement followed by a hearty dinner at the House of Seafood. This was our belated Mother's Day gift for we refused to pay for the hi-jacked prices last weekend. Ever since daddy retired from his work, he had not been to Punggol Point for the last 10 years. I could see that he was very excited about this trip including the bus service 84 journey from the interchange. Memories surfaced as he was quick to point out the various spots that evoked his deep memories of this place. Punggol Point is popular with families and it is not difficult to see why. It is virtually next to the sea with stunning sunset views overlooking the state of Johor. We arrived early and had some picture-taking time at ... read more

Easter Friday, 3rd April 2015 A hearty buffet lunch followed by a nice weekend stay at one of their lovely rooms. For the great prices we paid, we couldn't ask for more. ParkRoyal on Beach Road had been one of my preferred hotels when it comes to weekend staycations. Their room rates are not overly-expensive and the modern room condition is a nice touch considering that the hotel had been around for quite sometime. While the immediate neighbourhood might not have a lot to offer, this hotel is a comfortable stroll from Bugis Station where numerous malls dotted the landscape. Of course, if you are like us who aspire to spend more time in the hotel, the spacious swimming pool is sure to delight. Forget about the room service menu as similar local offerings could be ... read more