Planning a trip to Taiwan and travelling with kids? There are many kids friendly activities you can do over in Taiwan. Here, we pick out 5 amusement parks that can make your family trips with little ones extra enjoyable. Continue reading “Taiwan Travelogue: 6 Kids-Friendly Amusement Parks in Your Itinerary”
Category: Playground
Marine Cove: Babalicious, It’s Simply Delicious (Family Friendly Restaurant)
Now that Marine Cove is opened to public, it’s no surprise that throngs of people would pack the place especially during the weekends. We visited Marine Cove during the night and felt it was very much better to explore the playground during this timing. No scorching sun and best of all, with newly opened eateries there, it’s perfect family bonding time. Continue reading “Marine Cove: Babalicious, It’s Simply Delicious (Family Friendly Restaurant)”
Singapore Parenting Congress 2016 {Giveaway Tickets to 3 Winners!}
The Singapore Parenting Congress 2016 is here again. If you missed last year’s event, that’s all the more you should give it a go. Parenting is a lifelong journey which we can learn and here at the Singapore Parenting Congress be ready to pick up essential tips how we can be better parents. Continue reading “Singapore Parenting Congress 2016 {Giveaway Tickets to 3 Winners!}”
Experience Thrills and Spills: iFly Singapore @ Sentosa
Have you ever feel the adrenaline rush to try skydiving or bungee jumping but yet fearful to attempt it? There’s is an alternative to experience ‘flying’ in a fun and safe way at iFly Singapore in Sentosa. Best part of all, it’s suitable for everyone starting from age of 7. Continue reading “Experience Thrills and Spills: iFly Singapore @ Sentosa”
10 Reasons A Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay Bintan Stay Will Completely Justify Your Relaxing Getaway
When it comes to plan for a fuss-free family getaway, Bintan is a popular destination and for good reason. We scouted for affordable family-friendly accommodation and were introduced to Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay. This hotel fitted our requirements exactly and it has all what we wanted. What also makes Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay so special is that the most memorable moments at the hotel come when we least expect them to. We are so motivated to share with everyone.
Here we bring you 10 compelling reasons to make Swiss-Belhotel your next Bintan holiday destination.
1: Location
All we wanted was a short getaway and preferably need not spend too much time travelling especially with kids around. Bintan is a perfect fit. Come 2017, an international airport will help to connect Bintan to international travellers. For now, ferry is the only option. We arrived at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (Singapore), hopped onto the Bintan Resort Ferries’ Economy Class, and viola, reached Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal (Bintan) in less than an hour, approx 45mins.
Cartoon shows are aired inside the ferry to keep your little ones and the young at heart occupied.
Before we know it, we arrived at Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal.
Getting to Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay Bintan is a breeze. Complimentary shuttle service is provided from Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal to the hotel. *(Tips, readers shared with us that they booked their stay thru hotel directly, the ferry turn out to be cheaper. Plus hotel staffs will know the timing of your arrival and departure to arrange land transfer.)
Time taken to reach the hotel from ferry terminal? Less than 15 mins 🙂
The 195-rooms 4* Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay Bintan is just opened in May 2015. Huge and contemporary lobby for guests.
2: Choices of Elegant Suites
Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay features 195 guestrooms including Deluxe, Grand Deluxe and Executive Suite in a modern contemporary design. Complimentary Wi-Fi with strong signal is provided throughout.
37sqm elegantly designed Deluxe room with single or twin share beds with rates starting from
Sgd $160.
47sqm Grand Deluxe room comes with a bigger entrance space and upsize of 10 sqm larger than Deluxe room is designed for comfortable stay with rates starting from Sgd $190.
113sqm Luxury Executive Suite is set to give you the ultimate accommodation experience with a spacious bedroom, separate living and dining as well as a luxury bathroom with shower and bathtub with rates starting from Sgd $415.
We stayed at the Executive Suite. Check out our blog post here.
Searching to book Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay, click here!
3: Infinity Pool
Everyone loves the idea of a refreshing dip in the rooftop swimming pool, 1.3m. When it comes to swimming especially in an infinity pool, it’s even more irresistible for Big and Small M. They would indulge themselves all-day long in the waters.
A good size baby pool for your little ones, 0.5m.
Not that we like to brag, Swiss-Belhotel spectacular infinity-edged pool offers a breath-taking views of the Lagoi Bay.
Hotel guests can also lounge by the pool with a refreshing mocktail and appetizing snacks.
4: Games and Entertainment Room
This family-friendly amenity is a big-draw among the hotel guests. Opening from 10am to 10pm daily, it caters to all ages.
Get into the thrills and spills of table football.
Heart pounding. Thrilling. A rush. Enjoy the adrenaline rush and take your Wii games to a whole new level.
Challenge your partner into a game of pool.
If you just want to sit back and relax, try grabbing a jar of popcorns or candy floss(S$4) and hop onto the theatre to catch a movie.
It’s free-sittings for movie-goers.
5: Kids Club
Whether your little ones are too young to indulge in the Games & Entertainment Room or you have other adult activities planned, there’s a Kids Club to keep them entertained.
The Kids Club in Swiss-Belhotel is spacious and child-friendly.
Children can spend the afternoon manoeuvring around the Kids Club and be self-entertained.
A mini-trampoline for the jumpy ones.
Hours of active fun with ball pits for kids.
6: Authentic Indonesian Culinary Class
We know how much food can nourish our soul and tickle our tastebuds. Swiss-Belhotel also organizes activities to engage its guests. We enjoyed ourselves to bits participating in a hands-on cooking class during our stay.
The Hotel Chef teaching the participants the techniques behind making tasty Indonesian snack items.
Our Junior MasterChef in the making. We are mad about desserts. Imagine learning how to pull off that Onde Onde cupcakes, savoury Kueh Lemper and Bubur Terigu we are so fond of!
What better way to whet your appetite than to be taught by the local Chef?
This was our first and definitely not the last thing attending a culinary class.
7: Be a Fisherman
Hey, we went fishing at Lake Lagoi fishing farm! A booking at Swiss-Belhotel entitles you with a complimentary one hour fishing activities per room (1 rod + bait).
Enjoy the beauty of Lake Lagoi while waiting for the harvest.
What can we do with the catch? Swiss-Belhotel chefs can whip up a piping-hot meal in sambal, sweet and sour sauce or soya sauce for a mere SGD $10.
8: Swiss-Cafe
Waking up to a ready made breakfast is one of life’s pleasures. The Swiss-Cafe at Swiss-Belhotel offers a generous spread of International buffet breakfast with live cooking stations to start your day after a comfortable night’s sleep.
Do you love sunny side up?
Freshly-made coffee and fresh juices, together with fruit, sausage, bacon and scrambled eggs and many more certainly keeps you coming back for more.
It’s all about making everything from scratch. Enjoy a wide assortment of breads and pastries produced in-house by the hotel.
Swiss-Cafe also serves authentic local food. Highly recommended for the food enthusiasts.
We were hosted by Ms. Sharon Foo, Marcom Director of Swiss-Belhotel, who provided us with superb hospitality throughout our stay. We were blessed beyond words!
9: Chadis Roof Top Bar
When the sun sets, the Chadis Roof Top Bar becomes alive. We had an al-fresco dining experience at the rooftop where we were greeted by a medley of succulent grilled meats, barbequed seafood and piquant cocktails (and mock-tails).
Assortment of delectable pastries, breads, desserts, sauces and many more.
Meat lovers will certainly delight over freshly-grilled meats for them to feast on!
We enjoyed dining at the Chadis Rooftop Bar and felt it’s a perfect spot for hotel guests to dine and chill out, not forgetting to catch a game of Euro 2016 as well 🙂
Located at Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay, Chadis Rooftop Bar opens daily from 4pm – 11pm.
10: Beach
Swiss-Belhotel is just a short stroll to the beachfront. Crystal clear waters, white powdery sand, shading trees, refreshing air and tranquility scenery are the themes in this beach.
We have heard about the white, fine and powdery sand over the beachfront. The doubting Thomas in us just need to see to believe. Big and Small M were obviously impressed and started to play with the sand and scouting for sea-shells!
Hey, there’s something over here. Can you spot it?
Of course, our trip to Bintan wouldn’t be complete without a romantic sunset viewing at the beach.
Those mesmerising shades of colors had us transfixed until the last slither of sun sinks below the horizon.
Unbelievable Getaway Packages
Planning for a getaway? Swiss-Belhotel has two packages that are real valued-for-money. Check them out!
Family Fun Package, Child Stays FREE!
Fr S$130/person
This package is inclusive of:
- 1 (one) night stay at Deluxe room in Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay, Bintan
- Daily breakfast for 2 (two) persons in Swiss Café
- Crystal Lagoon Entrance Fees
- Return ferry tickets from Singapore – Bintan – Singapore excluding taxes and levies of S$24nett per person
- Complimentary access to Kids Club
- Complimentary return land transfers from Ferry Terminal to hotel
- Complimentary High Speed WIFI Internet Access throughout hotel including rooms (unlimited devices)
- Complimentary One hour fishing activity per room at Lake Lagoi
- Complimentary access to infinity rooftop swimming pool and gym
- Complimentary use of entertainment centre with indoor games (Xbox ,Wii U, PS4)
What’s more enjoyable and fun than escaping with your bestie to an idyllic island getaway, bond over refreshing mock-tails, relaxing spa treatments and indulge in authentic Indonesian Inspired meals? Get ready and start packing up for an exciting BFF Getaway!
This package is inclusive of:
- 1 (night) night stay in a Deluxe room at Swiss-belhotel Lagoi Bay, Bintan
- Return Ferry Tickets from Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal to BBT
- 2 ways land transfer to and fro BBT to hotel
- 1 x International buffet breakfast at Swiss-Cafe
- 1 x Mocktail by the infinity pool
- 1 x Head & Shoulder massage (45min)
- 1 x Indonesian Dinner
- 1 x Complimentary Donut Swim Float per room
- Complimentary High Speed WIFI Internet access throughout hotel including rooms (unlimited devices)
- Complimentary access to Games & Entertainment Centre
Weekday Price : S$165.00
Weekend Price : S$185.00
Above price excludes ferry taxes of $24 per person
Needless to say, we love every single moment and bits of our time in here. As we bade Swiss-Belhotel farewell, we realised this hotel has so much to offer and what we experienced was just the tip of the iceberg. We will be back for more!
Get connected to Swiss-Belhotel Facebook here.
Get connected to Swiss-Belhotel Website here.
Subscribe to Swiss-Belhotel Newsletter here.
Book Swiss-Belhotel accommodation here.
GRAND LAGOI SWISS-BELHOTEL
Jl. Gurindam Duabelas, Plot 27-29
Lagoi 29155, Bintan – Indonesia
For details on inquiries/bookings, please contact Swiss-Belhotel from Monday to Friday (9am to 6pm) at:
Tel. (+65) 6274 9555
Email. ssecsblb@swiss-belhotel.com
If you enjoy reading our travelogue, do give a like on Katong Kids Inc Facebook Fan Page by clicking here.
Disclosure: All photos, information and opinions, unless otherwise stated, in this post belong to Katong Kids Inc. Reproducing or copying them for use on third party sites without our written permission are strictly prohibited. All rights reserved.
Top 10 Activities to Do in Legoland Malaysia {Giveaway Tickets for Family of 4!}
There are galore of kids’ activities which we can do during the school holidays and it’s not common we can find a place to stretch our exploration for a day or two. It seems we have found that in Legoland Malaysia where our whole family can re-discover the inner child in us and enjoyed ourselves to the max. We would like to share on the top 10 things you can do in Legoland Malaysia and being just within 20km from Tuas Checkpoint there is no excuse you should give it a miss!
#1 – Stay in Legoland Hotel
We reckon you are going to take a day or two to cover all the rides and activities. That being said, how about booking a memorable getaway at Legoland hotel? Featuring 249 LEGO® themed guest rooms that you can choose from: Pirate, Adventure, Kingdom and LEGO® Friends, you are spoilt for choices. Best part of all, you are returning to a comfortable accommodation after exploring the theme park to get a well-deserved rest.
#2 – Technic Twister
LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort is the first of its kind in Asia that offers adventure, education and fun for action-packed day trips or a short break holiday destination. Come along for an unforgettable adventure at LEGOLAND Theme Park, a family holiday destination with over 70 hands-on rides, slides, shows and attractions designed for families with children aged 2-12.
LEGOLAND Theme Park brings you seven themed area of attractions for all ages such as The Beginning, LEGO® Technic, LEGO Kingdoms, Imagination, LEGO City, Land of Adventure and MINILAND. The theme parks is an inspirational land where the children are the heroes! From LEGO experiment centres to rollercoasters, LEGOLAND Theme Park offers a fun-filled day-long voyage of discovery for all families.
We kick off with the Technic Twister. This cup ride is all about spinning and spinning at fast speed. Try if you dare. All within less than a minute where you are sure to be injected to loads of thrills.
Minimum size: 110 cm (Below 120 cm if accompanied by an adult)
We felt it was daunting but not for Big and Small M. Easy peasy for them? They enjoyed it very much!
#3 – Project X
This is not for the faint-hearted. Imagine racing at lightning speed at the beginning and middle oft he ride and eventually leave you taking a huge plunge at high-speed that leaves you breathless!
Minimum size: 110 cm (Below 120 cm if accompanied by an adult)
Big and Small M get their adrenaline rush with Project X and I had to take the ride twice. They clamoured for another round but we had to stop them as there are so many other rides that we have yet to cover.
Experience a “free-fall” moment from as high as 18m with Project X.
#4 – Driving School
Hear us out. This Driving School is red hot, hot and hot! The queue never seem to dwindle. We were just glad that Big and Small M at least got their chance to be a driver for a day. While queuing up, some parents were left disappointed when the theme park was about to close and there, their little ones had to miss this ever popular ride.
Age: 6 – 13 years only
We were among the last batch and were blessed it was just 30 mins wait. Still bearable 🙂
So you aspire to be a real driver someday when you grow up. It’s not going to be easy but it’s not impossible. For a start, every kid will need to attend a driving course where they are shown a video on driving and safety rules.
Going to hit the road? Not so fast. The friendly instructor now takes the kids for a briefing and test their basic understanding of how to operate a car.
Just make sure you remember to step on the correct peddle …
The rest is history. Excitement took over and they had a whale of their time driving around the circuit.
Big M loves it! The reward that comes at the end it is a LEGOLAND® driver’s licence.
#5 – Boating School
We hit the road and how can we miss the waters? At the Boating School, you get to be your own captain and steer a boat. This is an ever-popular ride which is well-loved by all the visitors. Don’t be surprised to join a long queue. How fast the queue clears is determined by how fast these captains steer the boats back to the starting point. We guessed many of us were first-timers and you can expect us bumping into many corners before crawling our way back.
Long queue but thankful for the shelter.
We really hope to go for at least two rounds but time is limited. We just had to make the best out of this. Each boat is equipped with both a gas pedal and a steering wheel, giving the feeling of complete control to whoever is in charge of the boat. The boats themselves are filled with Lego themes – from the primary colors to the raised Lego-stamped circles, it will make you feel as if you are right in one of the scenes from Lego City!
Big M looking professional.
And of course, we had a blast!
#6 – Ninjago: The Ride
What we love about Legoland Malaysia is their continuity to introduce new rides. Slated to be launched at the end of 2016, Ninjago: The Ride enables guests to demonstrate their ninja skills without the use of a hand held device but through the simple use of their hand gestures. Riders can collect points for their training and battle efforts throughout the ride and scores are displayed when their quest is completed.
#7 – LEGO® Wave Pool
LEGOLAND® Water Park can be enjoyed separately or together with the theme park, boasting over 20 slides and water based attractions as well as 70 LEGO® models. The LEGO themed water park also includes unique highlights for more thrills and spills.
Get ready to be tossed by gentle waves and cool off in Lego Wave Pool. This is very suitable for families as the water is shallow and the waves are not strong. If you are looking for a shallow pool just to dip yourself (as an appetizer) before you head to more challenging rides, look no further. There were also hosts who came in at every interval to rally the swimmers to engage in water sports dance and keep ourselves entertained.
Splish splash in the waters 🙂
The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down! Swim, shop and savour the fun at the Wave Pool in the Water Park, which will be opened until 9pm every Friday and Saturday. Look out for exclusive entertainment specials, fun water games, meet your favourite LEGOLAND® characters, building activities and more!
#8 – Build A Boat
Put your imagination and creativity to test and build your dream boat all by using lego bricks.
Simple, safe and fun. Above the fun, it’s the bonding time between the sisters that stands out.
As you can see, the interesting part of this station is the ever-flowing waters. Kids get the thrill when they see their dream boats sailing beautiful down the stream.
May the best boat win!
- Build-a-Boat river is 35 feet long
- Boat hulls and LEGO bricks are provided for kids to design and build their own boat to race
- Interactive launch platform allows boats to race head to head against friends and family
- Dam breaks are stationed throughout the river for guests to control and change the flow of the water
#9 – Joker Soaker
We hate to say this. Joker Soaker may take up a big bulk of your time in the water park. Expect kids to be glued to this fun and interactive playground with various lengths, heights and types of slides. Guests can wade in the surrounding pool and be surprised with a torrential spill from a 300-gallon bucket.
Lower-level slide: Guests under 91cm tall are not permitted on this ride. Guests must be 91cm or taller to ride lower-level sildes. Children under 6 years of age must be accompanied by and adult.
Top-level slide: Guests under 102cm tall are not permitted on this ride. Guests under 102cm tall are not permitted on this ride. Guests must be 102cm or taller to ride middle-level slides.
#10 – Creativity Days 2016!
Creativity Days 2016 arrives at LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort with a myriad of fun LEGO® activities ignite your creativity, from Build Your Dream World at our large scale building activity to participating in our Junior Model Builder workshop. Guests would have to complete the Activity Trail obtained from the Guest Service Counter at the entrance, and stand to take home a surprise gift! Look out for the creativity show happening at the LEGO Kingdoms, Castle stage daily at 4pm – until the end of June.
F&B Promo – After Dark Special Buffet Dinner
Come feast on a rich selection of mouth-watering Malaysia cuisines, especially the Classic Malay Curry corner as well as delicious International delights. You will be accompanied by colourful LEGO models, at the one-of-a-kind LEGOLAND® Hotel for a night to remember!
Book your “After Dark Special Buffet Dinner” here now and enjoy our special all you can eat buffet at Bricks Family Restaurant @ LEGOLAND®Hotel.
| Buffet Date: | 6 June 2016 – 5 July 2016 |
| Time: | Starts from 6pm until 10pm |
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After Dark Special Buffet Dinner
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| Adult (12 years and above) | RM138 |
| Child/Senior Citizen (3-11 years)/(60 years and above) | RM 78 |
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A slew of activities awaits you at Legoland Malaysia. What are you waiting for? Get down to Legoland Malaysia today!
To book your tickets, click here.
To know more about annual passes, click here.
To find out bus services from Singapore to LEGOLAND Malaysia, click here.
To subscribe to LEGOLAND e-newsletter, click here.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9.00am – 7.00pm, Malaysia time
Address: 7, Jalan Legoland, Bandar Medini, 79250 Nusajaya, Johor, Malaysia
Phone: +60 7-597 8888
GIVEAWAY!
Special thanks to Legoland Malaysia, they are giving 1 winner with a family of 4 combo tickets that entitle you with access to both the water and theme parks:
All you need to do is:
- Like Legoland Malaysia & Katong Kids Inc Facebook Fan Page
- Follow Katong Kids Inc’s Instagram @ katongkidsinc
- Share this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook to as many friends, remember to set it to public.
We will be strict and disqualify ALL fake social media accounts (eg. Facebook accounts set up purely to take part in contests with no or very few real friends).
Terms & Conditions:
1. The winner will walk away with a family of 4 Legoland Malaysia Combo tickets, regardless of choice of adult or child.
2. The winner must be agreeable for his/her contact details to be provided to Katong Kids Inc & Legoland Malaysia.
3. Judges’ decision is final. Closing date: 23 June 2016.
4. Redemption have to be made before 21 July 2016
Sentosa Skyline Luge and Skyride to Explore with Your Family {Giveaway 2 sets of 4-rides Family Pass!}
What to do during the school holidays? There are lots of popular and affordable activities in Sentosa for families to enjoy. This time round, we find ourselves exploring Skyline Luge and Skyride at Sentosa Beach Station.
Skyline Luge
Suitable for all ages, the Skyline Sentosa Luge will inject much fun and laughter to your day in Sentosa. Enjoy a slew of fun activities and memorable bonding time with your family as you play at the same time.
The Luge is a unique wheeled gravity ride that provides riders full control over their descent on purpose built Luge track with a distance of 1.2km.
Here we are, getting ready to embark on our adventure.
Express pass, beat the queue!
Yes, once is never enough. Big M loves the Skyline Luge 🙂
You can get to choose from the 688m Dragon Trail or the 628m Jungle Trail that are specially designed with hairpin corners, long straights and exciting slopes. Expect loads of swash buckling action!
Once is definitely not enough. When night falls, get ready for the World’s first and only night Luge experience. Flashing lights with exciting colors will paint the tracks to make your exploration extra unforgettable.
Opening Hours:
10am – 9.30pm daily all year
** Riders must be at least 110cm tall and at least 6 years old to ride on their own or otherwise will have to ride with an adult **
Skyride
Take it easy and hop onto the Skyride (4 seater chairlift) that brings you up the hill to enjoy a beautiful view of Singapore’s skyline.
This was not our first time but yet we felt it was our very first experience. That surreal we must say. Overall, we would say it is one of the best attractions in Sentosa to bring your kids to experience the thrills and spins.
** Children must be over 85cm tall and accompanied by an adult otherwise be at least 135cm tall to ride alone. Ratio of 1 adult: 2 children is required if the child is below 135cm height for Skyride **
Skyline Luge Sentosa Prices
Luge & Skyride Combo
The Skyride transports you to the top of the luge tracks, where you jump onboard and ride to the bottom of the track. “Once is never enough”
| Luge & Skyride | S$18 / Person |
| Three Luge & Skyrides | S$25 / Person |
| Five Luge & Skyrides | S$38 / Person |
| Seven Luge & Skyrides | S$41 / Person |
| Child Doubling (children under 6 years or less then 110cm may ride in tandem with a full paying adult) |
S$3 per ride |
Skyline Luge Sentosa offers different package prices. Click here to book any of the below:
Luge & Skyride Combo | Family Combo Deals | Skyride Only
*Combo tickets are valid per person only, luge rides can not be shared.
Per person rate applies to ages 6 years and taller then 110cm riding solo.
Children under 110cm can ride tandem with a paying adult.
Opening Hours
10am – 9.30pm daily all year
GIVEAWAY!
Special thanks to Skyline Luge Sentosa, they are giving 2 winners, each with one set of 4-rides Family Pass:
All you need to do is:
- Like Skyline Luge Sentosa Facebook Fan Page
- Like Katong Kids Inc Facebook Fan Page
- Like Katong Kids Inc’s Instagram @ katongkidsinc
- Share this blog post of the giveaway on Facebook to as many friends!
- We will be strict and disqualify ALL fake social media accounts (eg. Facebook accounts set up purely to take part in contests with no or very few real friends).
Terms & Conditions:
1. The winner must be agreeable for his/her contact details to be provided to Katong Kids Inc & Skyline Luge Sentosa.
2. Judges’ decision is final. Closing date: 19 June 2016.
Getting to Sentosa Luge
Located between Imbiah Lookout and Siloso Beach, no matter how you arrive on Sentosa Island, you’ll find us right in the heart of things!
See inside and explore Skyline Sentosa on Google Maps.
Imbiah Lookout Entrance
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Imbiah Lookout Bus Stop Bus 1 & Bus 2 |
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Sentosa Express Imbiah Station |
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Only two minutes walk from the Singapore Cable Car Sentosa Island terminal |
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Imbiah Lookout Car Park |
Siloso Beach Entrance
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Beach Station Bus 1 & Bus 3 |
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Sentosa Express Beach Station |
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Siloso Beach Tram – Stop 1A |
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Beach Car Park |
Age and height restrictions
Skyride:
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Min. height 85cm to ride with an adult
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Min. height 135cm to ride alone
Luge:
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6yrs and 110cm or taller to ride Luge alone
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**Children under the age of 6 years can ride tandem with an adult
**Child Doubling
Children under the age of 6 years or under the minimum height of 110cm can ride in tandem with a full paying adult over the aged 16 + years.
Discovering Katong: Staycation Review @ Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong
Katong has come a long way from its early days when it was filled with coconut plantations. While these plantations have since become a story of the past, Katong has continued to thrive as a vibrant neighbourhood filled with the charm of Peranakan culture. Pre-war shophouses, colonial bungalows, hip cafes, many culinary choices and exciting hotel accommodations are what you can expect to experience in this tourist attraction.
We had our staycation at newly-opened Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong and here’s our review:
Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong
Nestled in the heart of Katong and Joo Chiat district, this 451-room Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong is newly-opened! Built to cater to value-conscious travellers who want affordable accommodation, this hotel offers a perfect respite after a busy day of exploring city.
We arrived at the hotel lobby and were served by the friendly and hospitable staff.
Visitor Information booth.
Spacious indoor area for hotel guests to chill out.
More chill out spots at the outdoors too.
Hotel Rooms
There were 4 of us and our stay was made even more pleasant with the addition of connecting room.
While the rooms are relatively smaller, we were fine with it as each room was filled with the necessities to make our stay a pleasant one.
A great night’s sleep can’t be completed without a comfortable bed. We were pleased that Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong has catered to this need nicely. Our bed was comfortable and there were choices of soft and firm pillows.
Hey, a cute little corner at the side of the bed for you to chill out 🙂
Bathroom
The bathroom was certainly clean and well-maintained. Towels and soap were sufficiently supplied. Guessed our only gripe was that iron was not found in the room.
The shower gave good pressure as well.
A wind down spot – beverage making.
It was a lovely touch by the hotel to introduce Smart TV in the rooms. While the hotel may not have a swimming pool, we were well-entertained by their Smart TV and the attractions in the vicinity.
Amenities and Facilities
Hotel Inn Express Singapore Katong offers no-frills amenities and facilities for its hotel guests. They include a fitness centre, self-service business centre, a meeting room, a laundry room, free and fast Wi-Fi, Free Express Start Breakfast or a Grab & Go option.
If you have little cravings, the hotel also offers Grab & Go option.
Free Breakfast
Good morning, let’s head to the Great Room for our free Express Start breakfast. The selection of breakfast includes carrot cake, baked beans, sausages, scrambled egg, pastries as such.
We were particularly fascinated by this beverage machine. Very cute!
Nearby Attractions
Nothing beats staying in a hotel that offers strategic convenience for everyone. Let’s take a look at what’s in store in this great location:
Take a dip in the waters and explore East Coast Park. You can read our blog on 10 kids friendly activities at Big Splash here.
Embark on an adventure in Marine Parade with heritage trail. Read our blog on exploring the Joo Chiat / Katong famous architectural attractions here.
In mood for shopping? Do you know there are no lack of shopping centres in Katong. Read our blog on 12 shopping centres that shape Katong here.
Feeling hungry? Too many dining spots to recommend in Katong. Read our blog on a highly-recommended cafe by the name of Streets of London located at Katong Point which you might want to try out here.
Many Attractions, A Great Place to Stay
Styled with understated elegance, cosiness and affordability, Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong is here to offer you a totally fulfilling experience.
If we enjoyed our stay here, so will you!
Address: 88 East Coast Road, Katong, Singapore 423371
To book Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong, click here.
Get connected to InterContinental Hotels Group Facebook here.
Get connected to Holiday Inn Express Facebook here.
Get connected to Holiday Inn Express Instagram here.
If you enjoy reading our travelogue, do give a like on Katong Kids Inc Facebook Fan Page by clicking here.
Disclosure: All photos, information and opinions, unless otherwise stated, in this post belong to Katong Kids Inc. Reproducing or copying them for use on third party sites without our written permission are strictly prohibited. All rights reserved.
5 Reasons Why You Should Stay @ Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour
Strategic location in the theme park zone is definitely among the factors to let down your hair and fully enjoy the atmosphere of luxury accommodation at Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour, an upscale hotel which lends a touch of modern, minimalist settings. This is the first time for us having a staycation in this elegant hotel. We truly enjoyed every single moment here and here are the 5 reasons why Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour should be your preferred choice of stay:
Reason 1: Contemporary & Refreshing
Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour is formerly known as Traders Hotel Puteri Harbour.This re-branding is to cater to a new “Jeneration” of independently minded business and leisure travellers. We arrived at the hotel and went straight to check in. The process was seamless and hotel staff was all smiles and served us well. We received our room key but we wanted to explore the lobby first.
A nice touch by the hotel to offer complimentary fruit-infused waters. The kids were fascinated when colours and juices come together. They kept helping themselves to the complimentary juices.
The hotel understands the importance of staying connected. Hotel guests can expect to receive free WiFi everywhere and we are honest to say the signal is really strong! iMac desktop stations are placed at the lobby for guests to use.
It is a plus to find convenient mobile charging stations at various points such as the the lobby, harbour cafe, gym and the Sky Bar for guests to charge their mobiles.
Reason 2: Rooms Are Spacious and New
Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour has 283 guestrooms with a choice of eight room types ranging from a 33sqm Deluxe Room to the 96sqm Speciality Suite. We stayed in the 33 sqm Deluxe Room and were contented that it was spacious and everything looked new.
We were surprised that the hotel did not place any tissue box in the room for guests to use.
Nothing thrills the kids more than having a TV and indulged in Disney channel.
We were upgraded to a Deluxe room with harbour view and we loved it!
We received a pleasant surprised from the hotel.
The kids are very fond of bath tubs and they were disappointed not to find one in our room.
Reason 3: Infinity Pool & Sky Bar
One of the higlights of our stay is the infinity pool. The kids had heard about it and can’t wait to take the plunge into the pool.
Swimming pool will certainly strike a chord with hotel guests. What’s more when there is an infinity pool? We spent a whole 2 hours soaking in the waters.
Feeling hungry after swimming? Take a little bite with orders from the Sky Bar.
Reason 4: Sumptuous Breakfast
We had breakfast buffet spread at the Harbour Cafe.
The buffet spread was sumptuous. Our appetite was huge but too bad, we could only eat that much as we were really full by then.
Our favourite egg station.
Muffins, waffles, pancakes, breads, donuts and various types of pastries spread to choose from.
Nasi Lemak but no chicken wings.
Curry laksa.
Reason 5: Nearby Entertainment
Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour provides free shuttle service to and fro for hotel guests to Legoland Malaysia. You can read our previous blogs on Legoland Malaysia Water Park here and Theme Park here.
Sanrio Hello Kitty Town is just 1 min walk from Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour.
Restaurants around the vicinity.
If you are feeling adventurous, try exploring nearby Gelang Patah, well-known for its nice local food.
Read our blog on Star Chef Seafood Restaurant here.
And our blog on Chua Kee Seafood Gelang Patah Johor 蔡記海鲜 here.
Thinking of a hotel to stay? Come to Hotel Jen Puteri Harbour!
Phone: +60 7 560 8888
Email: hjph@hoteljen.com
Address: Persiaran Puteri Selatan, Puteri Harbour, 79000 Nusajaya, Johor Darul Takzim, 79000, Malaysia
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Beat the Heat – Indoor Rock Climbing @ Climb Central
Never did we imagine we would do rock climbing together as a family. Now that school exams are over, it is timely for us to explore Climb Central at Kallang Wave Mall. We have passed by Climb Central on several occasions and every time, climbers of all skill levels and ages would spend their weekends “conquering” the obstacles. Continue reading “Beat the Heat – Indoor Rock Climbing @ Climb Central”
Katong Kids Inc | Singapore Travel & Lifestyle Blog 