In the oriental world, the year has only just begun. We’re currently in Singapore, ringing in the Year of the Dragon with family and friends. It’s a great time to be here – with streets and shops splashed in red, Chinese words of wishes sprawled across hallways and an infectious festive spirit in the air.

Chinese New Year is one of the most important festivals of the year here, celebrated in fervor with a flurry of traditions and cultural practices – such as spring cleaning, reunion dinners and lion dances. It’s a strong reminder of my Chinese heritage, keeping me rooted to my origins. While we take time off to soak in the atmosphere, I leave you here with some photos shot from the streets of Singapore. Here’s wishing all a prosperous new year - Gong xi fa cai!

Chinese New Year celebrations at River Hongbao

A sparkling dragon sculpture – in celebration of the Year of the Dragon

The gateway decorated with colorful lanterns

A colorful animal figure at River Hongbao

A dragon figure made up of porcelain plates and teacups

A giant dragon lantern

Chinese New Year snacks on sale

Purple electric flowers symbolizing the Spring Festival (aka Chinese New Year)

A view of the Singapore skyline from the water

Marina Bay Sands by night

The glittery night lights of Singapore seen from above

Night lights of Singapore as seen from the 55th-storey rooftop of Marina Bay Sands.

While I’m out and about exploring my new city Seville, Bryant from Gustey.com is filling in as a guest blogger, rounding up 10 of the safest cities to travel.

Some travelers still have qualms about traveling to certain destinations. For some,  it is a priority to know that the country you’re in is safe  or that the honeymoon you have always wanted is in a location with a good track record. With the help of CNN and MSNBC I have picked 10 of what I deem the safest cities in the world to visit. The factors going into these choices are natural disasters, social unrest, terrorism, and crime.

1. The Dutch ABC Islands

The Caribbean Islands have a reputation that can be shaky at times. There have been violent crimes and political unrest in Aruba, but the other islands in the group are doing well in terms of security and stability. Crime rates on the ABC Islands are comparatively low. There is no political unrest (as far as we know) and they are away from the usual hurricane route. They get a top vote for a heavenly combination of security and natural beauty.

2. New Zealand

All in all New Zealand is one of the safest places in the world. No one really knows why. It might be due to its size and population, or maybe its isolated distance from the rest of the world that the country is generally peaceful, calm and stable. With organized cities and tranquil rural settings, New Zealand definitely makes for an excellent security hub for travelers.

     Flickr photo by kiwinz

3. Ulster, Ireland

The Irish have always gotten a bad wrap for being fighters, drinkers, and the early mafia. Their gruff reputation should be overlooked when looking at Ulster as a travel destination. The Emerald Isle was just voted by the WHO as the least violent country in Europe. So don’t judge a clover by its leaves or Ulster might have to arm wrestle you for it.

4. Cyprus

Cyprus is another place that has had its poor reputations. This reputation has since been bunkified. With its booming economy and Orthodox churches at the center of its culture, Cyprus makes the list, and has evolved into a haven for travelers. This Eurasian island located in the East Mediterranean packs both the laid-back beachfront lifestyle and a low cost of living into one treasure trove.

5. Switzerland

Switzerland it is one of the richest countries in the world – divided into three main linguistic and cultural regions. Famed for the Alps, chocolate and high standard of living, Switzerland is often on the dream list of those chasing after the high life. Whether you’re here for a winter break or a new permanent home, the security will definitely make you feel at ease.

  Flickr photo by Juan Rubiano

6. Singapore

Singapore makes a clean and safe destination thanks to its extremely low crime rate and stringent law. Its track record is impeccable since the ruling of first Prime Minister. Singapore is a place worth visiting not just for its safety but also its myriad of mixed ethnics and traditional heritage. With such diversity, there is much to explore and learn in the economic hub of Asia.

7. Seattle, USA

Seattle is a tourist-friendly city, with well-equipped hostels, gorgeous scenery, and some of the best outdoor recreations in the country. A city that takes good care of its bike paths and recreational facilities deserves a nod for the world’s safest cities. In every corner there is a café or pub for visitors to hang loose and unwind.

Flickr photo by Bala

8. Luxembourg

The crime rate in Luxembourg is one of the lowest when compared to other European countries. Typical crimes are petty theft or infrequent break-ins. It has topped the list of world’s safest cities for years and deserves a visit for the traveling perks and well-developed infrastructure.

9. Helsinki, Finland

For a capital city, Helsinki is voted by many as the safest city in the world. It has a large enough population to warrant areas to steer clear of especially at night, but generally speaking, it is a safe city for travelers. There is an unlimited array of fun activities to do, outdoor exploring, and overnight trips. Often a city overlooked by most travelers, Helsinki definitely deserves to be in the limelight.

Flickr photo by Taiva Salla

10. Tokyo, Japan

Ranked 35^th on the Mercer stats for safest cities, Tokyo ranks top in the list of safe Asian cities to visit. Much like Seattle in its urban influence, the city has a powerful economy and commercial strength. Its population is huge, its area expansive, but it still remains a secure society.

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Bryant writes for Gustey.com about low cost travel insurance and traveling abroad. Currently a travel group visiting Patagonia with Gustey had their short term travel insurance cut short and had to return home before the anticipated departure date.

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Spicy aroma and sassy sauces are omnipresent in the culinary capital of Singapore. Food is quintessential in this gastronomic city where eating is our favourite past time. From economical traditional hawker centers to high-end seafood restaurants, there is so much variety to satiate your craves and thirst. The food junkie in me  has always loved gastronomic travels where food plays an important part in discovering the real side of a country. Jump on the bandwagon as I bring you on a foodie trip through Singapore!

Chilli Crabs

It’s hot, spicy and finger-licking good (literally so since you’ll be eating with your hands).  With fresh crabs simmered in generous portions of rich thick gravy, this is the nation’s pride and a must-try when you visit Singapore.

Where to find the best: Chilli Crabs are known to be the best at ‘No Signboard Seafood Restaurant’ and ‘Jumbo Seafood’. Both with tops reputations, you can’t go wrong with that.

Barbequed Sting ray

Found at every other hawker center, the sting ray is barbequed on a banana leaf, then topped with abundance of sizzling blachan chilli. Cooked to perfection, the tender meat of the stingray combined with a tinge of spicy flavour, it’s the local favourite!

Where to find the best: Lau Pat Sat, a sprawling food center in the heart of the CBD, is famous for the best stingray in town!

Flickr photo by dboy

Hokkien Prawn Mee

A daily dish that everyone loves, Hokkien mee originated from China, and was slowly transformed into a uniquely Singaporean platter adding some local flavours. This platter of fried noodles is the masterpiece of  perfect seasoning, and ingredients consisting of seafood and stock.

Where to find the best: Golden Mile Food Complex at Beach Road serves up the best hokkien mee in Singapore, while the stall at Gluttons Bay is also a strong competitor.

Flickr Photo by Chris Chen

Carrot Cake

Unlike the British or American style of carrot cakes, the Singapore’s rendition is fried in black sauce or with egg, to crispy perfection, and sprinkled with spring onions. A popular side dish, the carrot cake is simple but tasty.

Where to find the best:Bedok Hawker Center is reputed for its black carrot cake that keeps its regulars coming for more.

         Photo by Krista

Chwee Kueh

My personal favourite – this simple snack consisting of steamed white-flour paste topped with fried pickles – it’s heavenly. Not for the healthy eaters, it can be quite oily at times, but trust me, it’s worth it.

 Where  to find the best:Tiong Bahru Hawker Centre is the pioneer and the creme de la creme of Chwee Kueh. After a night out at Zouk, this is the best supper spot for some of Singapore’s finest.

Photo from Wikipedia

Laksa

Thick with spicy coconut gravy, this white noodle dish is smelling of Asian spices and unique taste. Not many foreigners fall for its charm, but watch out for its tempting aroma. A laksa of high calibre should taste perfectly rich but not overly thick, refreshingly spicy and not tear-jerking.

Where  to find the best:Katong Road Tong Kee has years of reputation as the best Laksa stall in Singapore. Watch out for the long queues thou!

          Photo by punzy

Beef Horfun

Horfun refers to the type of noodle that is flat and fat, similar to the italian fettucine. Braised with tender beef slices and seasoned oyster sause, this paradisical platter is favoured by all Singaporeans.

Where  to find the best:Undoubtedly Geylang Lorong 9 has the best Beef Horfun in the entire country, expect to pay a higher price here thou.

Satay

Originally Malaysian, these meat skewers are extremely well received, and are made Singaporean with its crisp barbeque flavour and sweet peanut curry sauce. Regardless of your ethnicity, you would love this tender grilled meat.

Where  to find the best:East Coast Park Hawker Center boasts of the best Satay stalls, as well as Lau Pat Sat.

         Photo by Edsel Little

Durians

Without a doubt, this fruit is the pride of the nation. Unique for its strong aroma and unmistakable flavour, this fruit is also known as the ‘King of Fruits’. Commonly found all over South East Asia, it is extremely popular here among Singaporeans.

Where  to find the best:The D24 species is the best – the brightly-lit stalls along Geylang Road have a wide selection to choose from.

Salivating? Oooh yes, Singaporean food can be pretty enticing. Any other local favourites I’ve missed out? Leave me a comment!

Over the Labour Day weekend, the Beerfest Asia kicked some ass in Singapore as thousands of beer-lovers gathered at the Singapore Flyer for some ground-breaking fun. Held annually, this year’s lineup was particularly impressive, especially its venue. Partying right under the giant Ferris wheel was quite an authentic experience. Singapore’s version of the London Eye stands like a gentle giant, over the Marina Bay area, overlooking the commercial district of the city.

Beers from all over the world came under one roof – exotic Chilean, Swiss and Thai beers were all on sale at a bargain price, and some of the finest brews were also up for grabs. It was like going on a beer tour around the globe, at a one-stop convenience.

A sprawling marquee was set up, in a German beer cellar style, accommodating the hoards of party-goers and the beer stands. The marquee stood right by the Singapore River – with the breezy ambience combined with sassy electronic funk, the crowd grooved to the early morning hours.

Live performances by various artistes were scheduled for the entire weekend, with both local and international bands stealing the limelight. The hottest band lined up was perhaps Vertical Horizon, playing their newest hits. Other bands included Hell’s Belles and several reputed DJs.

Friends from Spain and Hongkong came to visit us, they evidently left wide-eyed and impressed by the pumping nightlife of Singapore. We snuck into the VIP Club Night Mayfair, for free, thanks to Chrissy who was on the guest list. The ambience was close to a summer European party, with the tropical heat and non-stop flow of alcohol. A previous visit to the Singapore Beer Fest had left me dully disappointed, but this definitely changed my outlook of large-scale parties in Asia!

  One of the stalls that lured much attention was Chang Beer. The thai beer company got many pouring in, offering tall 7inch pitchers for S$7 (US$5). The Aussie Archipelago beer was also a hot favourite, winning the crowd over with its fruity brew. I even spent my last beer coupons on a cheap S$3 American beer – ‘Arrogant Bastard Ale’ ! Usual prices of beer in Singapore can go from S$12 to S$20 (US$8 to $13).

There you go, so next time be sure you don’t miss these outdoor parties in Asia!

If you’re a flashpacker looking for some luxury and sophisticated entertainment, Singapore would be your paradise. From exquisite wine bars to soothing high-end spa resorts, there is all you need for a modern urbanite’s flashy lifestyle. We promise you Asia’s finest, in this modern and chic tropical heaven.

Here are some of the best spots in Singapore for the high-strung travellers:

New Asia Bar

 A bar with a view – Located on the 70th floor of the tallest hotel in Singapore, the New Asia Bar is Singapore’s answer to the city’s sexiest cocktail bar. Set against an unobstructed backdrop of Singapore’s dazzling skyline, it creates the perfect atmosphere to soak in the city’s charm.

Enjoy the sunset here, especially with the sundowner’s prices at 2-for-1 (2 cocktails for the price of 1) from 3-9pm daily.

Privé

As its name implies, it is one of the rare few spots in the bustling city where you can actually enjoy some privacy. In this cosmopolitan city, you find crowds everywhere, especially at a trendy hotspot. So be surprised to find tranquility and a peace of mind at this exquisite al-fresco waterfront bar overlooking the yachts of the Marina. Situated on the private island of Keppel Bay, it’s only accessible by car or boat.

The Cliff

Perched on a cliff overlooking the South China Sea on the offshore island of Sentosa, this boutique restaurant exudes a unique sensual ambience. Designed by a famous Japanese designer, the opened-roof restaurant is set amongst flowing water and a lush jungle. You’ll be treated to a view of the sea and offshore islands. Of course the setting comes at a high price.

Siloso Beach Resort

With a cascading waterfall as a centre stage, this resort ensconced in natural tropical foliage creates the best hideaway for people who yearn to escape from the bustling city. Located on the Siloso beach of Sentosa island, the resort is a sanctuary especially for couples in search of their own world.

Every room has a view of the seafront, and the rooftop suite even has its own private jacuzzi. The room rates are on the high end, starting from S$180.

Cafe del Mar

Just like its counterpart in Ibiza, the snazzy beachbar is set on the smooth sands of Siloso Beach, grooving along with its white furnishing and hip crowd. Cafe del Mar is a great place to hang out on a sunny Saturday afternoon, especially on its linen daybeds along with a dip in its tiny pool. Be warned, there is an abundance of poseurs.

Halia Restaurant

Nestled in the luscious foliage of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, this restaurant/cafe provides the best atmosphere in the Tropics. Halia (Malay for ‘Ginger’) has a great Sunday brunch buffet menu, and a soothing ambience with nature.

Jewel Box

Overlooking the skyline of Singapore’s southern coast, the Jewel box is built on the peak of Mount Faber, the highest point of the island. A dimly-lit and ideallic spot for a romantic rendezvous, Jewel Box oozes sensuality and calm. Bring your loved one here, and she will surely be enticed. Serving costly dinners and drinks, you might have to prepare to pay for the view.

Any other suggestions? Please leave them under the comments, we wanna hear from you!

Singapore is a melting pot of the 4 main races – Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian. With our unique fusion of various languages and dialects, a local slang called Singlish is born. Many foreigners find it hard to understand our origins and heritage. But with our fast-paced life and traditional Asian values juxtaposed in this tiny island we call home, many funny traits have developed, and let’s just say, they’re not all perfect. Here are some funny perspectives of looking at Singapore, enjoy!

You Know You Live in Singapore when…

-       You sweat after walking for 5 minutes, thanks to the humid tropical weather.

-       It’s sunny and warm all year round! (who doesnt love that?)

-       You hear people speaking with a sing-song accent, and using words like ‘lah’, ‘loh’, ‘leh’ at the end of their sentences.

-       You’re trying to alight from the MRT (metro) but the crowd just pushes in, before you even get to step off the train.

-       You’re at a restaurant, and the waiter stands eagerly watching you while you foot the bill, and hopefully leave some tips for him.

-       You are not allowed to chew gum. Chewing gums are banned in Singapore!

-       There are signs of ‘No littering’ and ‘No smoking’ – Fine $500… everywhere! (like they say, Singapore is a ‘fine’ city.)

-       Everyone else is walking much faster than you are! They seem to be rushing somewhere, even on a weekend.

-       You’re at a food court at lunch hour, and you see packs of tissue paper left on the table tops, that’s just the way they reserve the table.

-       There is a long queue and you know they must be queuing for freebies.

-      Your Singaporean friend takes the day off work to catch The Great Singapore Sale.

With several budget airlines appearing in the headlines lately, they are coming up with more new and innovative stunts to pull in the crowd. Now this new one will definitely catch you wide-eyed and salivating!

Malaysia’s top budget airline AirAsia has launched a contest, ‘So You Wanna be a Pilot?’, opened to the public, giving 10 contestants to live their dreams in the sky. As quoted on AirAsia’s online blog, Just blog and be a Pilot. Simple rules right?

All contestants need to do is to send in a blog entry from 1 April 2009 to 15 May 2009 and convince AirAsia why they deserve this opportunity! No experience or training is necessary. Obviously the contestants must meet a set of minimum requirements, as set by the Department of Civil Aviation and AirAsia standards for pilot acceptance.

10 winners will be selected, entitling them to attend the first round of selection for AirAsia’s new pilot intake program and spend a day with a select group of pilots at AirAsia Academy. A place in the pilot training program is not guaranteed, but applicants will have a chance to dig further into the profession and maybe even have a go at computer pilot simulation series. But this is still a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all those who dream of flying in the skies.

These are the criteria of the contest:

1. Competition is open to all from aged 18 to 28 as at date of submission of entry
2. Passed SPM (or its equivalent that is recognized by the Malaysian Government) with at least A2 in English and Mathematics and B3 in Physics taken at one sitting. (Those from the Arts stream should have at least an A2 in General Science); or possess a Diploma/Degree in Engineering or Science-related disciplines with CGPA 3.0 and above and at SPM level scored at least a B4 in the subjects mentioned above taken in one sitting.
3. Good command of English and Bahasa Malaysia both written and spoken.
4. Must be physically and mentally fit with good eyesight (visual acuity of at least 6/60 without optical aid, correctable to 6/6 and not colour blind. Should be able to successfully pass a medical examination up to a Class 1 standard conducted by a Department of Civil Aviation Authorised Medical Examiner (DAME).
5. Minimum height of 163 cm (5ft 3in).
6. Be prepared to sign a training bond with a surety.

Check out more details on AirAsia’s blog here.

Contact blogteam@airasia.com for more details.

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It all started when Alberto began asking me questions, on why Asians always eat with our mouths full, or why we never bother asking ‘how are you?’. I was always intrigued by how he saw us as Asians. Even as a foreigner who’s been throttling in and out of Asia for the past 5 years, he is still amazed by the stark differences and just how odd some of our behavior would be deemed in the western world. This article is basically inspired by him, to showcase some of our most Bizarre cultural habits.

Anyone who’s been to China would have seen the locals spitting openly on the streets, or even indoors in nice restaurants. It’s quite a hideous sight, and you just can’t stop wondering why they incessantly do that.

In many Asian countries, it is typical for people to grow long fingernails, especially on their small pinkie. Wanna know why? Read my article here.

And from Japan to India, it is a standard practice to remove shoes at home in most of the Asian countries. Again, there are always some cultural beliefs that lead to such practices.

From the Japanese’ habit of slurping noodles loudly, to the Chinese’s spitting habit along the streets, I bring you on a journey through the weird and bizarre Asian customs that might just make you feel, tad bit, odd.

Read my full article on the 7 most Bizarre Asian Cultural Habits here.

Additional photo credits:
Noodle slurping: Wootang01 on Flickr , Removing shoes: Amirjina, No Spitting.

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