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Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Fun-filled Escapade with ONE FABER GROUP at Faber Peak & Sentosa

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School holidays are always welcoming as that means more family time! Time flies and our children have become teenagers. Through their growing years, we have accumulated many fond memories of our times at SentosaEven though we have visited the island many times, there are still so much more to do and explore and we look forward to spend yet another fun-filled family day together at Singapore's most exciting playground!


DAY: 2 June 2018

LOCATION: FABER PEAK SINGAPORE
TIME: 10AM


We arrived at Faber Peak Singapore - home of vibrant event spaces and popular dining spots where you can catch panoramic views of HarbourFront and Sentosa.  It was a drizzling morning but that did not dampen our moods and we got an uplifting view of the city landscape.


Stopping by SPUDS & APRONS - a fun & playful F&B joint offering eastern and western dishes, plus a hilltop view 100 meters above the sea!


At the outdoor garden outside Spuds & Aprons, is a romantic spot where many couples solemnize and marry. Here, we also spotted a tree with the shape of a heart. Interestingly, this tree was not trimmed in any way and grew naturally to this heart-shape by its own.


Many couples ring the Bell of Happiness to be blessed with everlasting happiness, peace and harmony. The century-old bell served as a nautical instrument onboard a Polish ship in 1909. It was presented as a gift to Sentosa Island in 1992 which was later moved to Mount Faber where it resides now. 


LOCATION: CABLE CAR (MOUNT FABER LINE)
TIME: 10:30AM

Time for the long-awaited cable car ride into Sentosa! Though we have been on the ride multiple times before, it never fails to excite us hopping onto the spacious cabin. 



The Singapore Cable Car Sky Network features two lines - Mount Faber Line and Sentosa Line. From Mount Faber Station, we crossed Harbourfront before alighting at Sentosa Station. This is also the most scenic way to get into the island as we soar high above the hill from Faber Peak Singapore.




LOCATION: SENTOSA MERLION
TIME: 11AM

It is only about 5 mins walk from Sentosa Station to the Sentosa Merlion. Be in awe as you stand beneath the foot(tail) of the majestic Sentosa Merlion, overseeing the island. Being back here once again really makes us reminisce about our last family trip when the children were younger. Much has changed since then and we are delighted to see new installations within, offering us a refreshed experience. Lets check it out now!


Posing at the entrance

Zone 1: Tales & Sails - We watched a 3-D animated show that brings us back in time to the 13th Century and recount how Singapura was discovered by Prince Sang Nila Utama and the legend of Merlion. 



Zone 2: A Legend in the Making - More than just a mythical animal, the Merlion is Singapore's icon that is full of symbolism. Here we learn more about its story and the key milestones. 





Zone 3: Building a Great Fortune - Visitors get to explore the interactives in this zone and discover how Merlion has to do with the nation's growth and progress. Through virtual-reality, we also understand the symbolic design elements that make up Sentosa Merlion. 



Children would love to be here as they get to colour their own Merlion and see it swim in the waters.

Zone 4: At the Heart of Progress - Merlion is also a symbol of good luck! Here is where you can exchange your Prosperity Card and take home a prosperity coin. 


Zone 5: Looking Beyond the Horizon - Take a lift up to Level 10 (Head & Mouth Gallery) and enjoy the breathtaking view of Sentosa island and Singapore skyline from the top.


View from Merlion's Head Gallery


Merlion's Mouth Gallery 

LOCATION: GOOD OLD DAYS
TIME: 12:20pm

There are many dining options at Sentosa and if you are looking to experience the good old days of Singapore, drop by Good Old Days, a family-friendly Halal restaurant offering delectable local favourites on its menu that will whet your appetite. 

Conveniently located near Beach Station, stepping into the 2-storey colonial style building feels at home already. Its causal ambiance allows us to sit back and relax. 



The menu offers many classic local dishes that is close to our hearts - Chicken Rice, Ayam Penyet, Briyani, Hor Fun, Mee Goreng, Laksa. Took us awhile before we decided on our orders.



Singapore Chicken Rice - S$12.80, Char Kway Teow - S$11.80, Chicken Briyani - S$10.80. 

Generous serving and I appreciate that the taste matches up with the ones we have in hawker centres. 

Shrimp Paste Chicken Wings - S$8.80. Crispy and delicious. All-time favourite for children and adults. 

After spending most of the day in the hot sun, savoring some chilling desserts is a pleasant treat for everyone! Local favourites such as Chendol, Ice-Kachang and Cheng Tng are our top choices!



If you are feeling famished after a fun-filled day in Sentosa, Good Old Days also offers Asian style all-you-can-eat dinner buffet (5pm - 930pm) at the ground level of the building.  





The variety is not as extensive but for the price of about S$21.40 nett (Adult) and S$16.05 nett (Child), it is a pretty attractive deal. 


 LOCATION: SKYLINE LUGE
TIME: 1:30pm

We are energised after a sumptuous lunch! Time for the kids' favourite and most anticipated segment of the day: Skyline Luge ride. From Good Old Days, it is only a few minutes walk to Skyline Luge - one of the most popular attractions at Sentosa which appeals to people of all ages. 



We have heard many rave reviews and finally we are trying it ourselves for the first time! After fitting on our helmets, we made a bee line to take the Skyline ride up to the top. Hubby and Gladys head off first fearlessly but Denver and I realised what we were in for from the moment we took off. Unlike the cable car rides, I soon realised my whole body was exposed to the open and only secured by the safety latch. How ironic is that for both of us who had mild acrophobia to be paired together for our first ride? And I was planning to take video and pictures too! 



However shortly after, the ride turned out to be enjoyable for the both of us as we conquered our fears. I was able to take better pictures on my second ride. 





Excitement does not stop here upon reaching the top as it's now time to whoosh down in style! After a brief introduction to the controls by the instructors, we were now our own and we made our way as a family through the Jungle Trail. Being first-timers, we did not want to ride like F1 racers and took our time through the course. We really enjoyed the thrill and went for round 2 (Dragon Trail - which has tighter corners and turns) without hesitation. This is definitely an attraction not to be missed! 





 LOCATION: GOGREEN SEGWAY ECO ADVENTURE
TIME: 3:20pm

This is not our first time riding such a device as we had similar experiences in the past, but what really stood out about the Segway was the easier controls and greater comfort. Though the ride was about 400 meters, time seemed to have slowed down as we cooled off riding through the wind.



Instructor giving all riders a one to one explanation and try out before the actual ride.



 LOCATION: SINGAPORE CABLE CAR (SENTOSA LINE)
TIME: 4:20pm

After an afternoon of fun, we decided to cool off and explore Sentosa with a bird's eye view on a cable car - the Sentosa Line. Apart from the astounding view of the landscape, we also got to see daring bungee jumpers and zip-liners taking part in the MegaJump and MegaZip activities respectively. Throughout the entire ride, we relaxed in the cabin while Denver and Gladys blasted music and sang along to their favourite tunes. Fun can be that simple.






 LOCATION: WINGS OF TIME
TIME: 7:40pm

What could be better than to end our family day trip to Sentosa with a fabulous and spectacular light show? Many trips before, we ended the night at Sentosa with Songs of the Sea, and now we have Wings of Time to light up the night sky. With a combination of fire, water, lasers and fireworks, the award-winning multi-sensory night show set in the open sea made the night a memorable one for everyone. One is sure to get wet with all the water splashing during the show, especially if you are seated at the front so be sure to come forward for a bit of fun! 





 LOCATION: SINGAPORE CABLE CAR (MOUNT FABER)
TIME: 8:15pm

It's time to head home and we took the cable car ride back to Faber Peak Singapore. The children are still very active despite being out for the whole day!



A final peek of the breathtaking night scenery. 



LOCATION: DUSK RESTAURANT & BAR
TIME: 9:00pm


As we prepared to end the night, we decided to give ourselves a final treat to mark the end of our awesome family day out by paying a visit to the renowned Dusk Restaurant & Bar. 





We were definitely not disappointed as the moment we stepped in, we were attracted to its laidback elegance and relaxing inviting ambiance of the restaurant. This hidden gem atop Faber Peak held one of the best sceneries as we could gaze into the mesmerising night view and if one were to come by earlier, they could catch the sunset.

The dishes clearly did not disappoint as well! 

Foie Gras Au Gratin - S$20 : This is our first time trying out flamed-seared duck foie gras topped with truffle balsamic pearls and the texture and taste is so heavenly!

Forest Mushrooms with Sherry - S$14 : Nicely sauteed forest mushrooms in rich Sherry cream sauce. Even our girl who does not fancy mushrooms is willing to take the bite.

Beef Meatballs in Cherry Tomato Sauce - S$16 : Homemade meatballs in rich tomato sauce. 

We completed our supper orders with Truffle Steak Fries - S$13 and two mocktails - Berry Wild Berries and Minty Watermelon - S$10 each.


It has been awhile since our family spent the entire day out together and it's truly a day to remember. Check out our video to recap our escapade of fun-filled activities.



(Faber Peak Singapore ~ Singapore Cable Car (Mount Faber to Sentosa) ~ Sentosa Merlion ~ Lunch @ Good Old Days (Ala-carte) ~ Skyline Luge ~ Gogreen Segway ~ Singapore Cable Car (Sentosa Line) ~ Dinner @ Good Old Days (Buffet) ~ Wings of Time ~ Singapore Cable Car (Sentosa to Mount Faber) ~ Supper @ Dusk Restaurant & Bar)



Thank you One Faber Group for the invite and making this a memorable and eventful day for our family!



Image Source: One Faber Group

Leading up to National day, One Faber Group has rolled out a series of "53-themed" promotions across their myriad of offerings from Faber Peak to Sentosa Island! Spend a minimum of $53 with One Faber Group and stand to win the grand prize of a 6D4N trip for two to Switzerland (worth more than $7000!).

Whether you are a parent with children looking for family-friendly, value-for-money activities to indulge in June, or a squad looking for a good bargain during the Great Singapore Sale (June till August), come (re)discover One Faber Group and (re)live happy times through sights, sounds and scrumptious cuisines.

Enjoy 5 Thematic Promotions from 1 June to 31 August 2018!

#1 - SPEND AND BE REWARDED!

Simply spend a minimum of S$53 with One Faber Group and stand to win one of ten prizes in the One Great Escapade Lucky Draw. The top three prizes consist of:
1. 6D5N trip for two to Switzerland worth more than S$7,000
Prize includes return flight tickets, accommodation in Zurich and a one-day Mount Titlis tour with cable car ride.
2. 5D4N trip for two to Hong Kong worth $3,500
Prize includes return flight tickets, accommodation and a 360 Fun Pass with Ngong Ping crystal cable car ride.
3. 3D2N staycation for two at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa, Singapore and Cable Car Sky Dining worth S$1,800


Image Source: One Faber Group

#2 - 53rd BIRTHDAY BABIES GET FREE ADMISSIONS!

Guests* who are 53 years old in 2018 get to enjoy free admissions to:
1. Singapore Cable Car (Adult Cable Car Sky Pass round trip)
2. Sentosa Merlion (Adult ticket)
3. Wings of Time (Standard seat)
*Applicable to Singapore citizens, Permanent Residents and those living in Singapore, including holders of Employment Passes, Work Permits and Dependents’ Passes and Malaysians. Redeemable at Singapore Cable Car and Sentosa Merlion ticketing counters.


Image Source: One Faber Group

#3 - TWO HAPPY 2 PACKAGES FOR (ALMOST) THE PRICE OF ONE

Enjoy 53% OFF Happy 2 Package @ S$48 (Adult) and S$39.50 (Child). U.P. S$101.90 for adults and S$84.40 for children.
Guests will be given a Singapore Cable Car Sky Pass (which offers unlimited rides) and a choice of any 2 out of the 17 items as follows:
• ATTRACTIONS: Sentosa Merlion | Wings of Time | The Maritime Experiential Museum | Skyline Luge | Tiger Sky Tower | Wave House Sentosa (2 tries) | Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom | 4D AdventureLand Extreme Long Ride | 4D Adventure Land Journey 2: The Mysterious Island| 4D AdventureLand: Desperados in 4D | Gogreen Segway Fun Ride (500m) | Gogreen Bicycle Rental (2 hours) | VR Racing Experience at Madame Tussauds Singapore
• DINING: Good Old Days Dinner Buffet | Spuds & Aprons 2-course Set Lunch | Co+Nut+Ink Ice Cream
• TOUR: Sentosa Island Bus Tour
Book online at http://booking.mountfaber.com.sg/escapade or at Singapore Cable Car and Sentosa Merlion ticketing counters.


Image Source: One Faber Group

#4 - DINING DEALS

Enjoy a special price of S$53++ per pax (U.P. S$65++ per pax) for Singapore Delights on board Singapore Cable Car! Indulge in a delicious bento dinner set featuring seven of Singapore’s favourite dishes, as you bask in the breath-taking sights of Mount Faber and the Harbourfront in a 1-hour cable car ride!


#5 - SHOPPING DEALS

Purchase memorabilia at only S$53 at FUN Shops:
• 12’’ Merlion Plush and Merlion Plush Bag (U.P. S$73.80)
• Singapore Cable Car Mosaic (U.P. S$68)

Selected items will be offered at S$5.30 at FUN Shops and Cable Car Gift Shops.

The list does not ends here! There are more promotions on-going and you can find out the details at https://www.onefabergroup.com/onegreatescapade/

* Disclosure: Our family was invited by One Faber Group to experience the above attractions and rides. All entries are complimentary and dining vouchers was given. All comments and opinions are personal and no monetary compensation was received.

Sunday, June 24, 2018

[JB] JBUtopia Homestay @ Taman Mount Austin Johor Bahru

Instead of hotel hopping, we have been trying out homestays as an alternative. After our first wonderful homestay experience at Menara Hartamas, we decided to return again during the June school holidays.

As we are travelling with another family, more bedding is required and we find the units at JBUtopia Homestay suits our needs based on availability and budget.

We picked the unit that comes with 3 Queen size beds and a sofa bed. Comfortable and big enough for about 7-8 people to sleep. We also brought our sleeping bags along just in case more space and privacy is needed.

Living Room - This is where 2 Queen size beds, sofa bed and TV console is located. Just this space alone felt like a hotel room with a cozy extended seating space for small groups to gather.


Sofa bed

Extending to the right is the entry to toilet, bedroom and dining/kitchen area. 

Though the dining space looks small, it can sits 8 guests comfortably and everyone managed to catch World Cup together.


Having some drinks while following closely to the World Cup matches!

Bedroom with a Queen-size bed and ample room space for another sleeping bag.

Night view of Mount Austin. If you are lucky, you may spot fireworks too!

Clean toilet/shower room with towels, hair dryer, shampoo and body soap are provided. Guests have to bring their own toothpaste and toothbrush.



Zoom in to the kitchen and laundry room. 


The unit is clean, brightly lighted and nicely decorated.  We had a lovely 3D2N stay over the Hari Raya Puasa weekend with our friends and the children had fun! Unit is booked via Airbnb and the host is responsive to our queries.

Summary Notes:
Apartment (1 Bedroom, Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, 1 Toilet & Shower, 1 Washing area)
- Wifi available
- Air-condition
- Window view
- Flooring - Tiles
- Water Flask - available
- Safety Box - not available
- Phone - not available
- Fridge - available
- Ironing Board & Iron - available
- Washing Machine - available
- Hair Dryer - available
- Cutlery - available

Toilet/Shower
- Bath towels are provided
- Combined Toilet and Shower room
- Water Heater available.
- Disposable toothbrush/toothpaste - not provided

Parking & Security
- Security (Access to building/lift lobby via key card)
- Security guard on duty round the clock
- Parking lot at multi-storey carpark - only 1 lot reserved for guests


JBUtopia-Homestay-新山烏托邦民宿
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JBUtopia-Homestay-%E6%96%B0%E5%B1%B1%E7%83%8F%E6%89%98%E9%82%A6%E6%B0%91%E5%AE%BF-124448351759020/
Stay Period: 15 - 17 June 2018

Want to find out more where you can stay in Johor Bahru?
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