Celebrate Music, Art, and Food on Your Next Trip to Singapore

Behind its towering office buildings, high-end malls, and fancy hotels and accommodation, Singapore has a thriving culture that celebrates music, art, and food. From an annual rock fest and nightly comedy shows to poetry slams and ice cream buffet, here are some awesome ways to appreciate the different side of this vibrant urban jungle.

Party like a rockstar
For the past years, Singapore's concert scene has been flooded by big names in the music industry. At the recent Singapore Rock Festival held last January, metal heads saw legendary icons Alice in Chains, KORN, and Rob Zombie perform live. This December, it's the EDM fans' turn to party at ZoukOut 2014. Some of the big names in this year's line up include UK trio Above & Beyond, Steve Aoki, Skrillex, and Damian Lazarus. If you want to catch this big event, securing plane tickets and reservation at a boutique hotel in Singapore is a good idea.

Those who want to listen to music without spending for tickets can head to the Singapore Botanical Gardens. Free concerts at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage are scheduled for visitors. The Esplanade Outdoor Theatre also hosts local emerging artists who perform on weekends.

Laugh and listen to local acts
Get a good laugh with your friends from the witty remarks of Singapore's local stand up comics. The comedy scene here has gained popularity, and the fever has spread across bars in the city. One of the popular spots include Comedy Masala at Home Club, which has shows on Tuesday. If you need some mid-week entertainment, you can also try Penny Black, located 5 minutes away from Hotel Clover the Arts.

Fancy watching a poetry slam? Word Forward, a non-profit company, organizes a monthly battle of aspiring poets at Blu Jaz Cafe. Usually, before the showdown begins, there's an open mic session for those who want to try out their rhyme skills.

Appreciate food and art
Every year, Art Stage Singapore showcases Southeast Asian contemporary art in an international stage. Artists, curators, gallery owners, and art lovers gather to celebrate masterful creations, and engage in sales opportunities. This year's event welcomed over 45,700 people for over 5 days. The next event, which is slated at the Marina Bay Sands, is expecting a larger audience from all parts of the world.

If you can't get enough sweet creations from the different shops in the city, then might as well make your own. BakinCalf, a modest baking school in the Yishun area, whips up hands-on baking classes for foodies who love French macaroons. Udders Ice Cream, meanwhile, aims to satisfy the craving of ice-cream junkies with an ice-cream making workshop that includes an all-you-can-eat ice cream buffet. There's no need to eat dessert in your accommodation in Singapore after this one.

4-Star Hotel in Puerto Princesa Offers Great Vantage Point to Palawan's Top Attractions

Aziza Paradise Hotel in the city proper of Puerto Princesa, Palawan is a great vantage point for exploring the Philippines' Last Frontier. From the location of this 4-star holiday retreat along BM Road in Barangay San Manuel, travelers can easily go to some of the city's famous natural and man-made attractions. These include the following:

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Located at Barangay Liwanag along Rizal Avenue, this stunning blue cathedral was built during the Spanish occupation. It is easily recognizable because of the pointed arches on its facade, which is reminiscent of the Gothic castles in Europe. The cathedral also features an angular structure, a very unique architectural design that is not seen in most Catholic churches. The easiest way to get here is by riding a local tricycle (a 7-minute ride from Aziza Hotel).

Plaza Cuartel

This historical landmark that is found along Taft Street is a commemoration to the infamous Palawan Massacre. Here, you'll see reconstructed ruins of tunnels and garrisons where American prisoners were burnt by the Japanese during the Second World War. A monument, made by one of the 10 survivors of the massacre, was erected at the plaza in 2009. Plaza Cuartel is just a stone's throw away from the Immaculate Conception Cathedral.

The Vietnamese Village

Vietville, as most tourists call it, is a 3-hectare hamlet that serves as an asylum for Vietnamese refugees. This place allows visitors to experience an immersion with the Vietnamese who chose to stay in Palawan. A quick tour in their houses, temples, and restaurants showcases their interesting history and culture. Situated at the southern part of the city, Vietville is only a 10-minute drive from Aziza's PuertoPrincesa accommodation.

Honda Bay Islands

Apart from the Subterranean River National Park, Puerto Princesa is also known for the exquisite islands in Honda Bay. These include the islands of Cowrie, Luli, Pandan, and Starfish, which are all great for snorkeling and swimming. The surroundings of these islands are studded with patches of white sand and coral gardens. Colorful reefs, meanwhile, can be found close to the surface down to 24 meters. The jump-off point to these islands is about 15-minute drive from Aziza Hotel.

A visit in all these wonderful attractions will surely make your Palawan trip even more memorable. So, for your much-awaited holiday, make sure to book your accommodation at AzizaParadise Hotel in Puerto Princesa to ensure a rewarding and hassle-free vacation.

Innpera Hotel Istanbul Adds Online Direct-Booking Engine for Convenient Reservations

Istanbul, Turkey – More convenience comes to travelers seeking a simpler way of booking rooms online at 4-star hotels in Istanbul, Turkey, as Innpera Hotel Istanbul launches a new reservation engine on its website at http://www.innpera.com. This system, powered by DirectWithHotels, doesn't only make reservations for this hotel in Taksim Square quicker and hassle-free but also yields instant confirmation.

Click on the “Check availability and prices” button on the website to immediately view the available rooms for planned dates. Here are more advantages of the new booking engine:

• Real time information – The room availability details shown on the booking engine is in real time. The rates provided are also inclusive of taxes and charges already. Further, a currency selector using the latest exchange rates is available for the reference of guests.
• User-friendly interface – The system is designed to make the process simpler and quicker for visitors. The details and buttons are vividly designed for maximum efficiency. For a faster date selection, use the virtual calendar that is integrated in the platform.
• Access to the best hotel deals in Istanbul, Turkey – Get the best deals and special offers by viewing all the running promotions on the website. Discounts, added perks, and high value treats are also available on this direct booking channel.
• Secure transactions – All transactions are secured by Trustwave and DigiCert.
• No prepayment required – Complete the reservation process and get instant confirmation. Grab the Best Available Rates and pay the fees upon check-in at the hotel. In addition, cancellation and modifications are free-of-charge within a given period.

Situated in Taksim Square, the popular Innpera Hotel Istanbul, which has been around since 1964, presents travelers with the following conveniences:

• Exceptional boutique service with excellent meeting facilities, modern architecture, and high-quality accommodation.
• Comfort, peace, and luxury pervade each of the Standard, Standard Triple, Standard Quadruple, and Economy Double Rooms.
• Suites that offer a wonderful sea view of the Bosphorus Strait.
• Guestrooms come with free Wi-Fi Internet, LCD TV, private toilet and shower, mini-bar, and coffee and tea maker.
• Convenient location. Innpera Hotel Istanbul is only 20 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from the main tourist attractions.

Innpera Hotel Istanbul

Siraselviler Cad No:15 Taksim

Beyoglu, Istanbul 34437

Turkey

Phone Number: +90-212-2529600

About DirectWithHotels

DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.

Modern Spaces, Central Location, and 5-Star Comforts Only at Acacia Hotel Manila

By seamlessly combining 5-star hotel facilities with the famed brand of Filipino hospitality, Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang, Philippines rises to the forefront of exemplary accommodation in the city. It features a convenient location, long list of reliable facilities, and first-rate accommodation in the excellent service of the business and leisure travelers. Indeed, the hotel is a home away from home, a place that provides so much comfort coupled with function that guests just keep on coming back.

Central Location

The hotel is located at the heart of the commercial and business district of Filinvest Corporate City in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila. As such, it is a convenient gateway to the South of the Metro. From the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, it only takes a 20-minute drive to reach the hotel, which is accessible through the Skyway and South Luzon Expressway.

Surrounding the hotel are various business and leisure establishments, such as 2 malls, churches, hospitals, and upscale residential areas. But for such a premier location, the ambience of the area is laid back, minus the rush that often exhausts individuals staying in the city.

Vibrant Look

Compared to other 5-star luxury hotels, Acacia Hotel Manila takes on a fresher appearance, with a cutting-edge design made interesting by vibrant patterns, shapes, colors, and various works of art. Each exudes elegance and style that truly create the perfect 5-star living experience. For a relaxing and cozy atmosphere, the guestrooms are decorated in warm earth tones.

Uniquely Filipino

Under the management of Enderun Colleges, the Alabang hotel highlights the unique brand of Filipino hospitality in its own brand of world-class hotel service.

Modern Spaces

A total of 261 guestrooms await travelers in the hotel. Each one is designed to cater to all the needs of guests, bringing unparalleled comfort and convenience. It begins with the Dream Bed on each accommodation, which consists of customized orthopedic beds with memory foam tops and a pillow selection for enhanced sleep quality. Further amenities found in the rooms include Wi-Fi Internet access, a 40-inch flat-screen TV, fully stocked mini-bar, coffee and tea maker, multimedia box, and marble baths with separate shower and bath tub. A kitchenette, smoking floor, and facilities for disabled guests are also available.

Global Cuisine

Several dining options serving local dishes, as well as global cuisine, are available at the hotel. Acaci is the buffet restaurant, which features floor-to-ceiling windows. Other dining options include The Lobby at Acacia, The Pastry Shop, and Tree Top Lounge. First class catering facilities are also at the ready, with the Grand Acacia Ballroom, 8 function rooms, and outdoor garden.

No doubt, Acacia Hotel Manila, Philippines presents more than the essentials that make an incredible city stay. Visit the hotel website and experience 5-star living today.

Here's A Great Vantage Point to Istanbul Old City's Top Attractions

  Choosing Eurostars Hotel Istanbul as your travel retreat in Turkey means easy access to world-renowned attractions. Here, you will find yourself at the doorstep of the historical and cultural heart of the country's capital.

Located at the cosmopolitan district of Fatih, this premium Istanbul hotel is just a short distance away from the following historic sites:

• Topkapi Palace (10-minute walk) - a 15th-century complex that features an impressive display of Islamic art; located at the Gulhane Park
• Aya Sofya (12-minute walk) - formerly known as Hagia Sophia, this illustrious mosque and museum houses the tombs of several early Ottoman sultans
• Blue Mosque (15-minute walk) - a notable structure that got its name from its dazzling interior that is decorated with thousands of Iznik tiles; located at the Sultanahmet Square
• Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (15-minute walk) - housed in the Palace of Ibrahim Pasha; it boasts a wonderful collection of gigantic carpets from all over Turkey
• Grand Bazaar (15-minute walk) - the world's first shopping mall; set between the mosques of Nure Osmanıye and Beyazıt
• Taksim Square (20 minutes by tram) - the Monument of the Republic, which was inaugurated in 1928, is found here
• Golden Horn (20 minutes by bus) - regarded as one of the finest natural harbors in the world; stands near the Galata Bridge

Apart from being a great vantage point to Istanbul Old City's top attractions, EurostarsHotel also presents delectable delights for holidaymakers. These include:

• Suites that cover a floor area of 40 sqm and come with a private balcony
• Sensible room amenities, such as Free Wi-Fi Internet connection, LCD TV, mini-bar, and safety deposit box
• Turkish bath and sauna and rejuvenating massage treatments in a spa
• Scrumptious buffet breakfast and a variety of cuisines in its on-site restaurant
• Concierge, room service, airport transfer, and 24-hour front desk
• Personalized services for corporate affairs and tours
• Online booking system that regularly offers promos and packages

For first-time visitor, here's how to get to this Istanbul hotel if you're coming from Ataturk International Airport (IST):

• Leaving the airport, turn right at the first intersection and follow the signs to Sirkeci/Sahilyolu.
• Drive straight along the seaside road for approximately 15 km.
• After passing the ferry terminal, you can expect to arrive at Eurostars Hotel Istanbul within 2 minutes.

Travel time is about 20 minutes, while driving distance is approximately 20 km.

5 Restaurants Serving a Hearty Breakfast for Travelers in Makati, Philippines

Booked a hotel in Makati City, Philippines but chose the room-only option? Don't fret — here's a list of restaurants around the city that serve often-talked-about hearty breakfasts and lunches to boost your day.

1. Apartment 1B

Serving breakfast from 7 am until 3 pm, Apartment 1B lets you taste gourmet comfort food from the old-fashioned oatmeal to create-your-own omelet. Starters that include soup, salad, and quiche, plus a wide choice of sandwiches, are also available.

Address: G/F One Layafette Square, Leviste corner Sedeno St, Salcedo Village

2. H & E Heaven & Eggs

This rock star-themed restaurant located at the main entrance of the Glorietta 4 Mall has an affordable breakfast buffet priced at PHP 299 per person. Those coming in late can still have their favorite morning meal, since the restaurant has all-day breakfast options. Don't forget to try the Lovin' Lucban Longganiza or Strawberry and Banana Cheesecake Stacks.

Address: Glorietta 4, Ground Level, Ayala Center

3. Chef Laudico's Bfast

Right in the middle of the beautiful Ayala Triangle Gardens is Chef Laudico's Bfast. Best to try the “Silog” meals. These are basically the popular Filipino breakfast sets composed of fried rice, fried egg, and a choice of beef, chicken, or pork. But here, they have the gourmet version: go for the Angus Tocino or Angus Tapsilog if you want to taste the specialty. Sugar-free Belgian waffles and Belgian chocolate champorado are also served here.

Address: Shop 3 Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati Avenue

4. Rodic's Diner

Despite Rodic's simple set-up of plastic chairs and tables, it has become one of the popular dining places in Makati City. It became famous for its sweet and tender sliced beef topped on a hot rice with egg. This treat only costs PHP 75. Folks on a tight budget can enjoy the flavorful treat for a half-order at PHP 45. Now that's a delicious and affordable breakfast to try.

Address: Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village

5. Mr. Jones

Expect a sophisticated selection of breakfast food at Mr. Jones. This American-style diner boasts specialty US Beef Ribcap Tapa and Garlic Overload. It's a plate of US Ribcap Beef strips placed on top of fried rice. There's also the Challah French Toast, which is a serving of thickly sliced bread stuffed with Nutella and raspberry. The prices of breakfast offers here are around PHP 300.

Address: G/L Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center

To catch breakfast just in time at these restaurants, choose a hotel in Makati City around the Ayala Triangle for the easiest commute even with the infamous Manila traffic.

Destiny Exclusive Hotel in South Africa Now Boasts a Direct-Booking Engine on Website

Gauteng, SOUTH AFRICA — To provide travelers with an easier way of booking rooms online, Destiny Exclusive Hotel in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa has launched a new reservation engine on its website at http://www.destinyhotel.co.za/. This system, powered by DirectWithHotels, doesn't only make bookings to this hotel in Gauteng quicker and hassle-free but also yields instant confirmation.

On the website, upon clicking the “Check availability and prices” button, guests can immediately view the available rooms for their planned dates. Here are more advantages of the new booking engine:

Information in real time – the room availability shown on the reservation engine is in real time, and the rates provided already include taxes and charges. There's also a currency selector with the latest exchange rates that serves as quick reference.
User-friendly interface – the details and buttons on the booking engine are designed vividly to provide an efficient reservation process. A virtual calendar has also been integrated to make date selection faster.
Access to better offers – aside from giving the best prices at this Gauteng accommodation, the booking engine also shows special offers, and discounts that can only be availed on this channel.
Secure transactions – all transactions in the system are secure because it's protected by DigiCert and Trustwave, 2 of the trusted security providers on the web.
No prepayment – secure a room instantly by completing the reservation process, and pay the fees upon check-in at the hotel. In addition, cancellation and modifications are free-of-charge within a given period.

Located on an exclusive private property in Bredell Kempton Park, the 4-star Destiny Exclusive Hotel lets business and leisure travelers enjoy:

Easy access to OR Thambo International Airport, and major highways to Johannesburg and Pretoria
Guestrooms with full-HD satellite TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, individually controlled air-conditioning, and en-suite bathroom
Business center services, and conference and meeting rooms with complete amenities
Leisure facilities that include the Destiny Health and Wellness Spa and restaurant
Express check-in, 24-hour reception, shuttle services, and dry cleaning/laundry

For more information about Destiny Exclusive Hotel's accommodations and services, guests must log on to http://www.destinyhotel.co.za/.

***

Destiny Exclusive Hotel
Estate 154, 3rd Road, Bredell, Kempton Park
Gauteng, 1620, South Africa

Phone Number: +27-11-9790044

About DirectWithHotels
DirectWithHotels is in the business of making selling online simple and more profitable for hotels. Since 2005, we’ve helped over 1000 Hotel Partners (and counting) in 50 countries worldwide increase their direct bookings online. We attract visitors and drive traffic direct to their hotel websites with tactical online marketing, convert these visitors into bookers with a top-performing booking engine, and manage increasing reservations with an easy-to-use web interface. All this at a fixed, performance-based fee of just 10% for every direct booking.