SingaporeOur friends from the Singapore Hills Tourism Board came over for a visit and to give an update on the latest shows in the city and the newest additions to the Wildlife Reserves Singapore.

‘Wicked’
From December 6, 2011 to February 26, 2012, the Broadway hit musical “Wicked” takes the stage at the Marina Bay Sands’ Grand Theater. This Grammy, Tony and Helpmann award-winner is recommended for audiences eight years old and up, and tells the story of the witches of Oz before Dorothy dropped in.

 

The most recognized resident is the orangutan, and Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife is a unique encounter where diners experience firsthand the wonder of being so close to these wonderful creatures. Sipping coffee and nibbling on toast next to an orangutan is an experience you will not easily forget! Themed exhibits such as Fragile Forest, Hamadryas Baboons—The Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia, and Elephants of Asia, and interactive “edu-taining” animal presentations will move everyone to learn about and appreciate animals.

Dinner on the Gourmet Safari Express
For an after dark experience with a difference, discover the Night Safari— the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals. Enjoy twilight views of over 1,000 animals of 120 species amid 40 hectares of lush secondary forest.

Don’t forget to catch Chawang, the majestic crossed-tusked bull elephant and his nocturnal neighbors such as the giant anteater, greater one-horned rhinoceros and the clouded leopard! The park operates from 7:30 p.m.

until 12 midnight, but come early to explore the retail shops and restaurants, which open from 6 p.m. onwards.

An exquisite dining experience awaits at Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant, which offers an array of local favorites and international cuisine in a charmingly ethnic setting.

Those looking for a unique event venue should consider the Gourmet Safari Express, which features a sumptuous meal while enjoying the sounds of nature. An opulent dinner is served on board a specially decorated tram that goes around the lush secondary forest of the Night Safari.

Jurong Bird Park
Considered one of the world’s finest, Asia-Pacific’s largest bird park is a haven for 4,600 birds of 380 species. Its lush greenery, tranquil settings and colorful birds are a marvel in urban Singapore.

Thematic exhibits like Penguin Coast, African Waterfall Aviary, the Lory Loft, Pelican Cove, Southeast Asian Aviary, Parrot Paradise, Windows on Paradise and Dinosaur Descendants feature a wide variety of birds from around the globe. The Bird Discovery Centre is a living classroom with 12 displays which showcase the wonders of the avian world.

 

 

For flight+hotel+“Wicked” tickets and other packages, call Griffin Sierra at 898-2451 to 57 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Airfare deals

Manila-Australia-Manila. From $410 ++, fly round-trip from Manila to Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne, Perth or Sydney via Hong Kong.

 

Manila-US West Coast/Canada-Manila. From $ 610++, fly round-trip from Manila to Los Angeles, San Francisco or Vancouver via Hong Kong.

 

Manila-Europe-Manila. From $670++, fly round-trip from Manila to Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, London or Milan via Hong Kong.
Conditions apply: For flights departing now until March 31, 2012. Tickets must be purchased on or before December 15, 2011. Subject to availability.

Turkey for Holy Week 2012. Great value from $1,395 per person. Group tour begins on April 5, 2012 until April 12, 2012. Package includes all deluxe motor coach transfers, domestic flights between Istanbul and Cappadocia, all hotel accommodations with daily breakfast, daily lunch, farewell dinner, all sightseeing tours and entrance fees, and experienced English-speaking guide. Excludes international airfare.

Plan ahead. Call Griffin Sierra at 898- 2451 to 57 or email traveldesk@griffinsierra. com.ph. Look for Leanne Alvarez. Package prices are subject to taxes and surcharges.