Bandar Tasik Selatan integrated transport terminal to open Jan 1
North and south-bound commuters from Kuala Lumpur will enjoy the state-of-the-art Integrated South-Bandar Tasik Selatan Transport Terminal (TBS-BTS) which is set to open on Jan 1.
MAJU Terminal Management and Services (TMAS), the newly-appointed operator for the TBS-BTS, said the terminal which is situated far from crowded city centre would be well received by the public.
"In conjunction with the Government's National Key Result Area initiatives, the terminal will boost public transportation in the country with user-friendly e-ticket booking and purchasing system, as such the centralisation will curb illegal ticket selling.
"Adhering to the 'Green' effort by the world community, the TBS-BTS is also surrounded by over 10,000 species of flora and has Central Vacuum System that ensures cleanliness and hygiene of the terminal," said MAJU TMAS in a statement here.
The terminal provides commuters ease of connectivity to the existing Bandar Tasik Selatan Station where the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) Komuter, Express Rail Link (ERL) Transit and Rapid KL Light Rail Transit (LRT) are in operation.
Covering a development area of approximately 49 acres, the terminal complex has six floors, 55 bus platforms, 150 taxi bays, 1,000 parking bays (with special parking bays for women) and 1,800 seats for the public within the fully air-conditioned waiting halls. – Bernama
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Airline stops Penang-Chennai direct flights
Airline stops direct flights from Penang to Chennai
AIRASIA has stopped direct flights from Penang to Chennai, Malaysia Nanban reported.
Tour operator P. Letchumanan said this had caused great inconvenience to travellers from the northern region who now have to go to Kuala Lumpur to catch a direct flight to Chennai.
“Northern region travellers would now incur more expenses and time will be wasted,’’ he said, adding that travellers would opt for other airlines.
-News courtesy of The Star-
AIRASIA has stopped direct flights from Penang to Chennai, Malaysia Nanban reported.
Tour operator P. Letchumanan said this had caused great inconvenience to travellers from the northern region who now have to go to Kuala Lumpur to catch a direct flight to Chennai.
“Northern region travellers would now incur more expenses and time will be wasted,’’ he said, adding that travellers would opt for other airlines.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Saturday, December 25, 2010
SIA: no major delays between S'pore and Paris
SIA says no major delays between S'pore and Paris
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said flight SQ333 from Paris to Singapore was delayed by an hour.
When contacted by Channel NewsAsia, SIA said the flight was preparing to take off from Charles de Gaulle airport as of 7.15pm Singapore time.
Thousands of travellers have been left stranded in the French capital, as half the flights at Charles de Gaulle airport were cancelled a day before Christmas, after snow storms continued to hit parts of Western Europe.
Meantime, SIA said it has no plans to cancel or delay its daily flight, SQ334, from Singapore to Paris on Friday evening.
The flight is scheduled to depart at 11.55pm.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said flight SQ333 from Paris to Singapore was delayed by an hour.
When contacted by Channel NewsAsia, SIA said the flight was preparing to take off from Charles de Gaulle airport as of 7.15pm Singapore time.
Thousands of travellers have been left stranded in the French capital, as half the flights at Charles de Gaulle airport were cancelled a day before Christmas, after snow storms continued to hit parts of Western Europe.
Meantime, SIA said it has no plans to cancel or delay its daily flight, SQ334, from Singapore to Paris on Friday evening.
The flight is scheduled to depart at 11.55pm.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Flight disruptions continue into 4th day
Flight disruptions continue into 4th day
Flight disruptions continued into its fourth day as some flights from Singapore to London's Heathrow Airport continued to be delayed or cancelled on Tuesday due to the bad weather.
But the situation has eased somewhat in Singapore.
Singapore Airlines said it has mostly cleared the backlog of passengers leaving Singapore for London.
It said the minority of passengers still here have been provided with accommodation and meals.
But British Airways said it will not be operating any flights from Singapore to London on Tuesday.
One Qantas flight left Singapore on Tuesday, while two services are expected to arrive in Singapore from London on Tuesday night.
Changi Airport Group said nine European flights were delayed as at 6pm - all but one being arrivals from Heathrow.
As Europe continues to struggle with its icy weather, more flights have been disrupted. More than 22,000 flights were disrupted across Europe on Monday.
At London's Heathrow Airport, service is still limited, with the airport operating from one of its two runways.
Terry O'Connor, CEO of furniture and electronics giant COURTS, is on his way back to Singapore via Manchester and Munich, after a long wait at Heathrow.
He sent Channel NewsAsia a text message describing the situation.
He said: "Heathrow and Gatwick are more or less at a standstill, but Manchester is coping... temperatures range from minus six to minus 18 across the UK. I had a rail trip cancelled yesterday and had to find an alternative route that made a 5-hour round trip a total of nine hours."
R Rajendren, a Singaporean in London, was on his way back to visit his father-in-law who is sick. His AirAsia flight from London's Stansted Airport to Kuala Lumpur was diverted to Birmingham.
"All the flights to Europe ... were cancelled, so the whole airport was filled, with every square inch where there was space, there were people sleeping. So after the plane got diverted to Birmingham, we were stuck there, and they didn't tell us if it was gonna happen, or not gonna happen."
Mr Rajendren finally reached Singapore on Tuesday afternoon.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Flight disruptions continued into its fourth day as some flights from Singapore to London's Heathrow Airport continued to be delayed or cancelled on Tuesday due to the bad weather.
But the situation has eased somewhat in Singapore.
Singapore Airlines said it has mostly cleared the backlog of passengers leaving Singapore for London.
It said the minority of passengers still here have been provided with accommodation and meals.
But British Airways said it will not be operating any flights from Singapore to London on Tuesday.
One Qantas flight left Singapore on Tuesday, while two services are expected to arrive in Singapore from London on Tuesday night.
Changi Airport Group said nine European flights were delayed as at 6pm - all but one being arrivals from Heathrow.
As Europe continues to struggle with its icy weather, more flights have been disrupted. More than 22,000 flights were disrupted across Europe on Monday.
At London's Heathrow Airport, service is still limited, with the airport operating from one of its two runways.
Terry O'Connor, CEO of furniture and electronics giant COURTS, is on his way back to Singapore via Manchester and Munich, after a long wait at Heathrow.
He sent Channel NewsAsia a text message describing the situation.
He said: "Heathrow and Gatwick are more or less at a standstill, but Manchester is coping... temperatures range from minus six to minus 18 across the UK. I had a rail trip cancelled yesterday and had to find an alternative route that made a 5-hour round trip a total of nine hours."
R Rajendren, a Singaporean in London, was on his way back to visit his father-in-law who is sick. His AirAsia flight from London's Stansted Airport to Kuala Lumpur was diverted to Birmingham.
"All the flights to Europe ... were cancelled, so the whole airport was filled, with every square inch where there was space, there were people sleeping. So after the plane got diverted to Birmingham, we were stuck there, and they didn't tell us if it was gonna happen, or not gonna happen."
Mr Rajendren finally reached Singapore on Tuesday afternoon.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
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Checkpoint congestion ahead
Checkpoint congestion ahead
Be prepared for heavy traffic at the two land checkpoints during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said traffic volume at the two land checkpoints is expected to be high for the Christmas period, from December 24 to December 27.
For the New Year period, traffic build-up is also expected from December 31 and the high traffic volume through the checkpoints is expected to last till January 3, 2011.
ICA said travellers using the land checkpoints during these periods can expect delays.
To avoid the surge of people and vehicles seeking clearance at the land checkpoints, ICA is advising travellers to adjust their travel plans and avoid the peak periods altogether.
It said with enhanced security checks, traffic build-up is inevitable, particularly when large number of travellers want to use the checkpoints at the same time.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Be prepared for heavy traffic at the two land checkpoints during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said traffic volume at the two land checkpoints is expected to be high for the Christmas period, from December 24 to December 27.
For the New Year period, traffic build-up is also expected from December 31 and the high traffic volume through the checkpoints is expected to last till January 3, 2011.
ICA said travellers using the land checkpoints during these periods can expect delays.
To avoid the surge of people and vehicles seeking clearance at the land checkpoints, ICA is advising travellers to adjust their travel plans and avoid the peak periods altogether.
It said with enhanced security checks, traffic build-up is inevitable, particularly when large number of travellers want to use the checkpoints at the same time.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday, December 20, 2010
More London flights cancelled or delayed
More London flights cancelled or delayed
The arctic conditions enveloping Britain sparked fresh flight delays and cancellations for a third day on Monday.
Four flights from Singapore to London have either been cancelled or delayed as at 9.30am due to the heavy snow and thick ice at Heathrow Airport.
Changi Airport Group said two of them are by Singapore Airlines and one each by Qantas Airways and British Airways.
Five flights from London to Singapore have also either been cancelled or delayed - three by SIA and two by British Airways.
SQ317 managed to fly out of Heathrow Airport and landed at Changi Airport at 10.45am on Monday morning. It was the first London to Singapore flight to land on Monday, after Sunday's flights cancellation and one of only seven flights to leave London.
Passengers on board the flight described the situation at Heathrow.
"It's just absolute chaos actually," said a passenger. "The rest of the people that are still at the airport, I'm afraid they'll have to start their journey tomorrow, because the airport is closed."
"We heard reports on the television that we were being given blankets and food and everything, but they said we couldn't have blankets and we couldn't have food because they couldn't take it off the aircraft," said another.
Some passengers from Sunday's aborted flight SQ318 were also at the airport.
Their flight took off on Sunday morning only for the plane to turn around two hours later, while they were being served lunch over the Indian Ocean.
"To see the flight monitor change where the aircraft actually turned around and was heading back to Singapore, and the captain said that we have to go back because of the weather conditions in the UK," said one of the passengers.
Accommodations were arranged for them for the night, but their travel plans remain unknown.
SIA said all flights to London on Monday remain provisional.
With forecasters predicting this month could be the coldest December for a century, Britain braced for further problems today with up to 20 centimetres of snow expected in some places.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The arctic conditions enveloping Britain sparked fresh flight delays and cancellations for a third day on Monday.
Four flights from Singapore to London have either been cancelled or delayed as at 9.30am due to the heavy snow and thick ice at Heathrow Airport.
Changi Airport Group said two of them are by Singapore Airlines and one each by Qantas Airways and British Airways.
Five flights from London to Singapore have also either been cancelled or delayed - three by SIA and two by British Airways.
SQ317 managed to fly out of Heathrow Airport and landed at Changi Airport at 10.45am on Monday morning. It was the first London to Singapore flight to land on Monday, after Sunday's flights cancellation and one of only seven flights to leave London.
Passengers on board the flight described the situation at Heathrow.
"It's just absolute chaos actually," said a passenger. "The rest of the people that are still at the airport, I'm afraid they'll have to start their journey tomorrow, because the airport is closed."
"We heard reports on the television that we were being given blankets and food and everything, but they said we couldn't have blankets and we couldn't have food because they couldn't take it off the aircraft," said another.
Some passengers from Sunday's aborted flight SQ318 were also at the airport.
Their flight took off on Sunday morning only for the plane to turn around two hours later, while they were being served lunch over the Indian Ocean.
"To see the flight monitor change where the aircraft actually turned around and was heading back to Singapore, and the captain said that we have to go back because of the weather conditions in the UK," said one of the passengers.
Accommodations were arranged for them for the night, but their travel plans remain unknown.
SIA said all flights to London on Monday remain provisional.
With forecasters predicting this month could be the coldest December for a century, Britain braced for further problems today with up to 20 centimetres of snow expected in some places.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday, November 14, 2010
AirAsia introduces S'pore-Miri route
AirAsia introduces S'pore-Miri route
Malaysian low cost airline AirAsia is enhancing its connectivity from Singapore with the introduction of a new route to Miri, Sarawak, and increased frequencies to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
AirAsia will be flying four times a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday - from Singapore to Miri.
To celebrate the new addition to its route network, the Malaysian budget carrier has launched promotional fares from Singapore to Miri from S$39 per way. The travel period is from 21 January 2011 - 30 June 2011.
AirAsia will also increase the frequencies of flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur will be raised to 10 times daily, effective 17 December 2010, from the current eight times a day.
For the Singapore-Penang route, with the addition of another frequency from 21 January 2011, the number of flights will increase to 3 times daily.
Kathleen Tan, regional head of commercial, AirAsia, said: "AirAsia is committed to connecting people and the new addition of Singapore to Miri route as well as increased frequencies from Singapore reiterates that commitment as Singapore is our virtual hub with 401 weekly flights to 13 cities internationally.
"This new route is definitely sustainable as Singapore is an international gateway, while Miri is the second largest city in Sarawak with a significant number of expatriates and international students.
"With this new route, Singapore is now connected to six cities in Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and now Miri."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Malaysian low cost airline AirAsia is enhancing its connectivity from Singapore with the introduction of a new route to Miri, Sarawak, and increased frequencies to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
AirAsia will be flying four times a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday - from Singapore to Miri.
To celebrate the new addition to its route network, the Malaysian budget carrier has launched promotional fares from Singapore to Miri from S$39 per way. The travel period is from 21 January 2011 - 30 June 2011.
AirAsia will also increase the frequencies of flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
Flights from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur will be raised to 10 times daily, effective 17 December 2010, from the current eight times a day.
For the Singapore-Penang route, with the addition of another frequency from 21 January 2011, the number of flights will increase to 3 times daily.
Kathleen Tan, regional head of commercial, AirAsia, said: "AirAsia is committed to connecting people and the new addition of Singapore to Miri route as well as increased frequencies from Singapore reiterates that commitment as Singapore is our virtual hub with 401 weekly flights to 13 cities internationally.
"This new route is definitely sustainable as Singapore is an international gateway, while Miri is the second largest city in Sarawak with a significant number of expatriates and international students.
"With this new route, Singapore is now connected to six cities in Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and now Miri."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Singapore-Jakarta flights cancelled
Singapore-Jakarta flights cancelled due to volcano
Several major airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, AirAsia, Valuair and Tiger Airways, cancelled their flights between Singapore and Jakarta on Saturday, citing volcanic ash from Mount Merapi.
Changi Airport Group said 11 out of 35 flights to the Indonesian capital were cancelled.
Volcanic ash can affect flight visibility and cause an aircraft's engine to fail.
Jakarta lies some 430 kilometres away from the volcano in central Java.
But with the adverse movements of the ash clouds, Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it was in the interest of safety that its flights were cancelled on Saturday.
SIA's vice-president for public affairs, Nicholas Ionides, said: "We've been monitoring the situation very closely. The decision was taken at about 3 o'clock to cancel all subsequent flights for the day. There were four outbound flights from Singapore and four return flights from Jakarta.
"That was a precautionary measure based on the information that we had from the volcanic ash advisory centre in Darwin...the latest was that the ash cloud was moving in a manner that made it prudent for us to cancel those flights."
Some passengers were unhappy over the flight cancellation.
An affected passenger said: "I have come here to see the doctors. And today I have (to go back) to continue my medical treatment in Indonesia. So I really hope it (the flight) would not be cancelled. And they haven't decided any compensation for us, or new arrangements, because they are still waiting for the news from Jakarta."
But another affected passenger said: "It's pretty good that they are not taking the risk to fly to Jakarta."
Still, there were those who still insisted on making their way to the Indonesian capital.
They turned to Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air to fly to Jakarta.
SIA has also cancelled flights scheduled for Sunday.
The flights affected are:
SQ952, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0740 hours;
SQ956, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0930 hours;
SQ951, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0615 hours;
SQ953, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0920 hours; and
SQ957, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 1140 hours.
Singapore Airlines said it will waive cancellation/change fees for confirmed tickets to and from Jakarta issued on or before 6 November 2010 for travel between 6 November and 13 November 2010.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Several major airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, AirAsia, Valuair and Tiger Airways, cancelled their flights between Singapore and Jakarta on Saturday, citing volcanic ash from Mount Merapi.
Changi Airport Group said 11 out of 35 flights to the Indonesian capital were cancelled.
Volcanic ash can affect flight visibility and cause an aircraft's engine to fail.
Jakarta lies some 430 kilometres away from the volcano in central Java.
But with the adverse movements of the ash clouds, Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it was in the interest of safety that its flights were cancelled on Saturday.
SIA's vice-president for public affairs, Nicholas Ionides, said: "We've been monitoring the situation very closely. The decision was taken at about 3 o'clock to cancel all subsequent flights for the day. There were four outbound flights from Singapore and four return flights from Jakarta.
"That was a precautionary measure based on the information that we had from the volcanic ash advisory centre in Darwin...the latest was that the ash cloud was moving in a manner that made it prudent for us to cancel those flights."
Some passengers were unhappy over the flight cancellation.
An affected passenger said: "I have come here to see the doctors. And today I have (to go back) to continue my medical treatment in Indonesia. So I really hope it (the flight) would not be cancelled. And they haven't decided any compensation for us, or new arrangements, because they are still waiting for the news from Jakarta."
But another affected passenger said: "It's pretty good that they are not taking the risk to fly to Jakarta."
Still, there were those who still insisted on making their way to the Indonesian capital.
They turned to Garuda Indonesia and Lion Air to fly to Jakarta.
SIA has also cancelled flights scheduled for Sunday.
The flights affected are:
SQ952, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0740 hours;
SQ956, Singapore-Jakarta, scheduled to depart at 0930 hours;
SQ951, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0615 hours;
SQ953, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 0920 hours; and
SQ957, Jakarta-Singapore, scheduled to depart at 1140 hours.
Singapore Airlines said it will waive cancellation/change fees for confirmed tickets to and from Jakarta issued on or before 6 November 2010 for travel between 6 November and 13 November 2010.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday, November 5, 2010
SIA resumes A380 flights
SIA resumes A380 flights after precautionary checks
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it has begun resuming A380 flights following precautionary checks. The checks were carried out following advice from engine manufacturer Rolls Royce and aircraft manufacturer Airbus.
SIA delayed its flights operating the A380 aircraft Thursday evening.
This followed Thursday's incident in which a Qantas A380 Sydney bound flight encountered engine trouble.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore Airlines (SIA) said it has begun resuming A380 flights following precautionary checks. The checks were carried out following advice from engine manufacturer Rolls Royce and aircraft manufacturer Airbus.
SIA delayed its flights operating the A380 aircraft Thursday evening.
This followed Thursday's incident in which a Qantas A380 Sydney bound flight encountered engine trouble.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Changi Airport raises airport charges
Changi Airport Group raises airport charges
Airlines and travellers using Changi Airport will have to pay more from April next year, following the revision of airport charges announced by the Changi Airport Group on Wednesday.
The revision includes service and security charges for transit and transfer passengers, and an increase in landing fees for airlines, which analysts said will also result in budget travellers paying more.
Departing passengers using Changi Terminals 1, 2, and 3 will not be affected.
Changi Airport handles about 37 million passengers a year - with 30 per cent on transit or making a transfer.
From April 1 next year, such travellers will be subjected to a passenger service charge of S$9 and a security service charge of S$3, which will be added to the price of the air ticket.
Changi Airport Group said transit and transfer passengers also have access to the facilities and services within the transit areas in Changi. These include the holding rooms, transfer counters and free Internet access. So it is only appropriate for them to share the costs of providing these facilities.
It added that investments in security since the September 11, 2001 attacks have resulted in higher costs.
It said fees for such transit and transfer passengers are already levied in major airports in Europe and Asia.
Travellers that Channel NewsAsia spoke to had mixed reactions.
One traveller said: "I guess S$12 is too much for a transit passenger."
However, another said: "The things you can do - eat and shop - so for me, I will be ok with it."
Changi said following a S$20 million upgrading last year, budget travellers have enjoyed an improved experience at the terminal, and there is a need to recover part of the cost of operating the terminal.
The passenger service charge for budget travellers will be raised to S$7.80 per trip, from S$4.80. The passenger security service charge, however, remains unchanged at S$8.
"As a whole, if you compare the total amount, the S$3 (increase) is not very significant," a traveller said.
"I would not think it's expensive, it's fine for me," another added.
The new fees will apply to all air tickets purchased from February 1 next year for travel on or after April 1.
Analysts said it is still too early to tell how much ticket prices will be affected, as airlines - especially those with smaller aircraft - will have to pay more landing fees.
Airlines will see a 15 per cent average increase in their landing, parking and aerobridge (LPA) bill.
Changi said expenses have increased significantly with major enhancements to infrastructure, and the current landing fees for narrow body aircraft is also disproportionately lower compared to larger aircraft types.
Low-cost carriers are no doubt unhappy with the move as it will hit them harder, but analysts said they are unlikely to see a loss of business.
Siva Govindasamy, managing editor, Asia, Flightglobal, said: "It is far easier for the full service carriers to pass on higher costs to their passengers, simply because fares are higher.
"This will affect the low cost market a lot more because it will mean higher fares for the passengers ...
"The low cost carriers which operate on the principle that you have to keep your cost base low - they are going to face higher cost and they will have no choice but to pass it on to their customers.
"So will it affect their business? Unlikely, because the low cost model is growing and there will continue to be a lot of demand for low cost travel in this part of the world."
As for full-service carriers, Singapore Airlines said that in general, any cost increase is of concern, given the fragility of the economic recovery.
Nicholas Ionides, vice president of public affairs at Singapore Airlines, added: "Where increases in fees are applied, they should be fair and equitable so that all airlines compete on a level playing field.
"Our common objective is the sustained success of Singapore as a leading aviation hub. We are appreciative of the fact that CAG consulted stakeholders as part of its review of aeronautical charges."
Jetstar said it is concerned that its cost base will rise in "this extremely competitive environment".
Both Tiger Airways and Jetstar said they will take cost adjustments into consideration when determining future capacity.
Tiger Airways added that Asia continues to hold a lot of growth potential for low cost carriers. To keep up with the region's growth potential, it is looking to expand its fleet from 21 to 26 by next March, and to 33 by the following March.
Tony Davis, president and group CEO, Tiger Airways, said: "We're saying to airports - you've got to make your facilities affordable. If we're pushing fares down and reducing our costs, we expect airports to do the same.
"We want simple basic infrastructure at a low price, and airports that deliver that to us are going to get the most growth."
The impact of the fee increase may be cushioned as Changi extends its landing fee rebate of up to 10 per cent for all airlines until 31 March 2012.
Changi said even with the landing fee revision, the airport will remain competitive.
Since the airport's opening in 1981, landing fees have been adjusted twice - in 1993 and 1995.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Airlines and travellers using Changi Airport will have to pay more from April next year, following the revision of airport charges announced by the Changi Airport Group on Wednesday.
The revision includes service and security charges for transit and transfer passengers, and an increase in landing fees for airlines, which analysts said will also result in budget travellers paying more.
Departing passengers using Changi Terminals 1, 2, and 3 will not be affected.
Changi Airport handles about 37 million passengers a year - with 30 per cent on transit or making a transfer.
From April 1 next year, such travellers will be subjected to a passenger service charge of S$9 and a security service charge of S$3, which will be added to the price of the air ticket.
Changi Airport Group said transit and transfer passengers also have access to the facilities and services within the transit areas in Changi. These include the holding rooms, transfer counters and free Internet access. So it is only appropriate for them to share the costs of providing these facilities.
It added that investments in security since the September 11, 2001 attacks have resulted in higher costs.
It said fees for such transit and transfer passengers are already levied in major airports in Europe and Asia.
Travellers that Channel NewsAsia spoke to had mixed reactions.
One traveller said: "I guess S$12 is too much for a transit passenger."
However, another said: "The things you can do - eat and shop - so for me, I will be ok with it."
Changi said following a S$20 million upgrading last year, budget travellers have enjoyed an improved experience at the terminal, and there is a need to recover part of the cost of operating the terminal.
The passenger service charge for budget travellers will be raised to S$7.80 per trip, from S$4.80. The passenger security service charge, however, remains unchanged at S$8.
"As a whole, if you compare the total amount, the S$3 (increase) is not very significant," a traveller said.
"I would not think it's expensive, it's fine for me," another added.
The new fees will apply to all air tickets purchased from February 1 next year for travel on or after April 1.
Analysts said it is still too early to tell how much ticket prices will be affected, as airlines - especially those with smaller aircraft - will have to pay more landing fees.
Airlines will see a 15 per cent average increase in their landing, parking and aerobridge (LPA) bill.
Changi said expenses have increased significantly with major enhancements to infrastructure, and the current landing fees for narrow body aircraft is also disproportionately lower compared to larger aircraft types.
Low-cost carriers are no doubt unhappy with the move as it will hit them harder, but analysts said they are unlikely to see a loss of business.
Siva Govindasamy, managing editor, Asia, Flightglobal, said: "It is far easier for the full service carriers to pass on higher costs to their passengers, simply because fares are higher.
"This will affect the low cost market a lot more because it will mean higher fares for the passengers ...
"The low cost carriers which operate on the principle that you have to keep your cost base low - they are going to face higher cost and they will have no choice but to pass it on to their customers.
"So will it affect their business? Unlikely, because the low cost model is growing and there will continue to be a lot of demand for low cost travel in this part of the world."
As for full-service carriers, Singapore Airlines said that in general, any cost increase is of concern, given the fragility of the economic recovery.
Nicholas Ionides, vice president of public affairs at Singapore Airlines, added: "Where increases in fees are applied, they should be fair and equitable so that all airlines compete on a level playing field.
"Our common objective is the sustained success of Singapore as a leading aviation hub. We are appreciative of the fact that CAG consulted stakeholders as part of its review of aeronautical charges."
Jetstar said it is concerned that its cost base will rise in "this extremely competitive environment".
Both Tiger Airways and Jetstar said they will take cost adjustments into consideration when determining future capacity.
Tiger Airways added that Asia continues to hold a lot of growth potential for low cost carriers. To keep up with the region's growth potential, it is looking to expand its fleet from 21 to 26 by next March, and to 33 by the following March.
Tony Davis, president and group CEO, Tiger Airways, said: "We're saying to airports - you've got to make your facilities affordable. If we're pushing fares down and reducing our costs, we expect airports to do the same.
"We want simple basic infrastructure at a low price, and airports that deliver that to us are going to get the most growth."
The impact of the fee increase may be cushioned as Changi extends its landing fee rebate of up to 10 per cent for all airlines until 31 March 2012.
Changi said even with the landing fee revision, the airport will remain competitive.
Since the airport's opening in 1981, landing fees have been adjusted twice - in 1993 and 1995.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Floods disrupting northern Malaysia
Floods disrupt bus, train and air services to the north
Floods in the Malaysian northern states have disrupted all bus, train and air services.
The Sultan Abdul Halim Airport in Alor Setar, Kedah will be closed until Thursday to all flights except helicopter services, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Chong Ha said Wednesday.
Heavy rain for the past few days, especially in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia, had caused flooding in the area and forced the airport to close from Tuesday, he said according to Bernama.
"We would like to apologise for this unforeseen circumstance due to the weather condition," he told reporters after attending the Malaysia Airlines' showcase of partnership with American companies operating in Malaysia at Skypark Terminal, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang, here, Wednesday.
The airport handles Malaysia Airlines flights from Alor Setar to KLIA three times daily, AirAsia's flights from Alor Setar to KLIA (twice daily), and Firefly's from Alor Setar to Subang Airport (twice daily). Kong said other airports like the Langkawi International Airport, Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kota Baharu and Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu were still operating as usual.
Malaysia Airlines managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Tengku Azmil Zahruddin said the national airline's customers who had booked flights to Alor Setar but unable to take the flights due to the airport closure were allowed to reschedule their flights or choose the nearest destination.
Meanwhile, buses scheduled to run from Sungai Petani and Alor Setar to areas in the north such as Changloon, Jitra, Kodiang, Arau, Kuala Perlis and Kangar were cancelled Wednesday.
“We can only go as far as Simpang Empat, Simpang Kuala Perlis, which is four kilometres away from Kangar, and from there on, passengers will have to find their own way,” said Supervisor of Kenderaan Langkasuka Ahmad Rejap, adding that the bus services along these routes have yet to be rescheduled.
Buses have been unable to go into those areas since Monday when waters rose.
“We have had to also cancel services to Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) in Sintok, Kedah, and many were unable to make it for the UUM convocation on Tuesday,” said Ahmad.
Transnasional, the leading express bus service in Malaysia, has also cancelled its bus services from Kuala Lumpur to Kangar.
“Passengers will have to get off at Seriap and take alternate means of transport to their final destinations. We are doing all that we can,” said Transnasional Acting Head of Operations Muhammad Saiful, adding that Seriap is about eight to nine kilometres away from Kangar.
Saiful said that, at the moment, there were no passengers stranded in Seriap. He said that the other services from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar and Kuala Lumpur to Sungai Petani and back on schedule.
AirAsia also cancelled its Wednesday flights from KL to Alor Setar and back due to the floods.
Flights from Subang to Alor Setar and back via Firefly have also been cancelled.
Passengers could move their flight to another date or request a refund, but it will take up to one month for the money to be refunded, a Firefly spokesman said.
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd(KTMB), had said in a statement on Tuesday that a number of its services to the north have been cancelled.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Floods in the Malaysian northern states have disrupted all bus, train and air services.
The Sultan Abdul Halim Airport in Alor Setar, Kedah will be closed until Thursday to all flights except helicopter services, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Chong Ha said Wednesday.
Heavy rain for the past few days, especially in the northern part of Peninsular Malaysia, had caused flooding in the area and forced the airport to close from Tuesday, he said according to Bernama.
"We would like to apologise for this unforeseen circumstance due to the weather condition," he told reporters after attending the Malaysia Airlines' showcase of partnership with American companies operating in Malaysia at Skypark Terminal, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang, here, Wednesday.
The airport handles Malaysia Airlines flights from Alor Setar to KLIA three times daily, AirAsia's flights from Alor Setar to KLIA (twice daily), and Firefly's from Alor Setar to Subang Airport (twice daily). Kong said other airports like the Langkawi International Airport, Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kota Baharu and Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu were still operating as usual.
Malaysia Airlines managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Tengku Azmil Zahruddin said the national airline's customers who had booked flights to Alor Setar but unable to take the flights due to the airport closure were allowed to reschedule their flights or choose the nearest destination.
Meanwhile, buses scheduled to run from Sungai Petani and Alor Setar to areas in the north such as Changloon, Jitra, Kodiang, Arau, Kuala Perlis and Kangar were cancelled Wednesday.
“We can only go as far as Simpang Empat, Simpang Kuala Perlis, which is four kilometres away from Kangar, and from there on, passengers will have to find their own way,” said Supervisor of Kenderaan Langkasuka Ahmad Rejap, adding that the bus services along these routes have yet to be rescheduled.
Buses have been unable to go into those areas since Monday when waters rose.
“We have had to also cancel services to Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) in Sintok, Kedah, and many were unable to make it for the UUM convocation on Tuesday,” said Ahmad.
Transnasional, the leading express bus service in Malaysia, has also cancelled its bus services from Kuala Lumpur to Kangar.
“Passengers will have to get off at Seriap and take alternate means of transport to their final destinations. We are doing all that we can,” said Transnasional Acting Head of Operations Muhammad Saiful, adding that Seriap is about eight to nine kilometres away from Kangar.
Saiful said that, at the moment, there were no passengers stranded in Seriap. He said that the other services from Kuala Lumpur to Alor Setar and Kuala Lumpur to Sungai Petani and back on schedule.
AirAsia also cancelled its Wednesday flights from KL to Alor Setar and back due to the floods.
Flights from Subang to Alor Setar and back via Firefly have also been cancelled.
Passengers could move their flight to another date or request a refund, but it will take up to one month for the money to be refunded, a Firefly spokesman said.
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd(KTMB), had said in a statement on Tuesday that a number of its services to the north have been cancelled.
-News courtesy of The Star-
Sunday, October 31, 2010
"Sumatra" squall causes unstable weather conditions in Singapore
"Sumatra" squall causes unstable weather conditions in Singapore
The National Environment Agency (NEA) says strong winds and rain early Saturday were caused by a "Sumatra" squall.
A "Sumatra" squall is an organised line of thunderstorms that develops over Sumatra or the Straits of Malacca that moves eastward towards Singapore.
As such, unstable weather conditions were experienced in Singapore.
The highest rainfall recorded on Saturday morning was 30mm at Kent Ridge and the highest wind speed was 60.5kph recorded at Pasir Panjang at 5.40am.
The station nearest to Toa Payoh is Nanyang Polytechnic and the highest wind speed recorded there was 11kph at about 8am.
On Friday, strong winds and rain caused streets in the Serangoon North and Yio Chu Kang areas to be littered with fallen branches.
According to NParks, fallen branches caused damage to cars, a bus, roofs and fences of two properties.
The roof of a house in Jalan Limbok along Yio Chu Kang Road was damaged when a huge branch fell on it, causing rainwater to seep in.
When the news team visited the house on Saturday, rainwater was still seeping in.
The family is getting help from their insurance company and is also trying to seek compensation from NParks.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The National Environment Agency (NEA) says strong winds and rain early Saturday were caused by a "Sumatra" squall.
A "Sumatra" squall is an organised line of thunderstorms that develops over Sumatra or the Straits of Malacca that moves eastward towards Singapore.
As such, unstable weather conditions were experienced in Singapore.
The highest rainfall recorded on Saturday morning was 30mm at Kent Ridge and the highest wind speed was 60.5kph recorded at Pasir Panjang at 5.40am.
The station nearest to Toa Payoh is Nanyang Polytechnic and the highest wind speed recorded there was 11kph at about 8am.
On Friday, strong winds and rain caused streets in the Serangoon North and Yio Chu Kang areas to be littered with fallen branches.
According to NParks, fallen branches caused damage to cars, a bus, roofs and fences of two properties.
The roof of a house in Jalan Limbok along Yio Chu Kang Road was damaged when a huge branch fell on it, causing rainwater to seep in.
When the news team visited the house on Saturday, rainwater was still seeping in.
The family is getting help from their insurance company and is also trying to seek compensation from NParks.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday, October 22, 2010
Tiger Airways and AirAsia in advertising war
Tiger Airways and AirAsia in advertising war
Tiger Airways has won the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation's Low Cost Airline of the Year award, the carrier announced on Tuesday - as the tit-for-tat between Tiger and Malaysia-based AirAsia continued, with AirAsia chief executive Tony Fernandes quoted by website marketing-interactive.com as describing his rival as "a tiny carrier".
In a media statement on Wednesday, Tiger Airways president and group chief executive Tony Davis appeared to brush aside the latest jibe by declaring that Tiger aims to be among the top three airlines globally.
He added that Tiger, which is partly-owned by Singapore Airlines, had achieved record passenger numbers and growth in excess of 43 per cent this year.
Mr Davis noted that Thai Tiger - a low-cost carrier it is set to start with Thai Airways - was on track to launch in the first quarter of next year.
The move would see it compete head-on with Mr Fernandes' own Thai AirAsia.
In an apparent riposte to the controversial full-page advertisements AirAsia put out in The Straits Times and The Business Times on Tuesday, Mr Davis said, "It's no wonder some of our competitors are getting so rattled."
However, in an interview with Channel NewsAsia, AirAsia's regional head of commercial Kathleen Tan said the advertisements had "nothing to do with Thai Tiger".
Rather, the carrier had thought up the advertisement, which showed a crying tiger cub and the tagline "If Tigers were meant to fly, they would be born with wings", because they "love a good fight on the marketing front once in a while" said Ms Tan.
Tiger recently cancelled numerous flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.
"We thought it's a great time to do things that are a little bit fun; a little bit wicked. It's not meant as a one-up, we're not attacking anyone, we were just being clever and witty to assert our marketing leadership," Ms Tan added.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Tiger Airways has won the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation's Low Cost Airline of the Year award, the carrier announced on Tuesday - as the tit-for-tat between Tiger and Malaysia-based AirAsia continued, with AirAsia chief executive Tony Fernandes quoted by website marketing-interactive.com as describing his rival as "a tiny carrier".
In a media statement on Wednesday, Tiger Airways president and group chief executive Tony Davis appeared to brush aside the latest jibe by declaring that Tiger aims to be among the top three airlines globally.
He added that Tiger, which is partly-owned by Singapore Airlines, had achieved record passenger numbers and growth in excess of 43 per cent this year.
Mr Davis noted that Thai Tiger - a low-cost carrier it is set to start with Thai Airways - was on track to launch in the first quarter of next year.
The move would see it compete head-on with Mr Fernandes' own Thai AirAsia.
In an apparent riposte to the controversial full-page advertisements AirAsia put out in The Straits Times and The Business Times on Tuesday, Mr Davis said, "It's no wonder some of our competitors are getting so rattled."
However, in an interview with Channel NewsAsia, AirAsia's regional head of commercial Kathleen Tan said the advertisements had "nothing to do with Thai Tiger".
Rather, the carrier had thought up the advertisement, which showed a crying tiger cub and the tagline "If Tigers were meant to fly, they would be born with wings", because they "love a good fight on the marketing front once in a while" said Ms Tan.
Tiger recently cancelled numerous flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.
"We thought it's a great time to do things that are a little bit fun; a little bit wicked. It's not meant as a one-up, we're not attacking anyone, we were just being clever and witty to assert our marketing leadership," Ms Tan added.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Changi Airport flights unaffected by haze
Changi Airport flights unaffected by haze
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has said flights at Changi Airport are not affected by the haze which reached unhealthy levels on Thursday.
The three-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading rose to 108 at 6pm. A PSI reading between 101-200 is considered unhealthy.
Responding to media queries, CAAS pointed out that Changi Airport is equipped with facilities and procedures to allow safe landing of aircraft in low visibility conditions.
This is in accordance with international standards.
The airport is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) which provides guidance to pilots for their landing on the runway.
CAAS said the pilot's decision to land is based on the Runway Visual Range, which is the range over which the pilot can see along the runway.
This can be reduced if the haze is severe.
CAAS said that flights can still land at Changi Airport safely even when the Runway Visual Range is below 500 metres.
The visibility reading at Changi Airport on Thursday is between 1,500 and 1,800 metres.
From past experience, the visibility at Changi Airport due to haze has not gone below 550 metres.
During the prolonged haze period in 1997, the lowest visibility reading at Changi Airport was about 800 metres.
Asked about the haze situation, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said: "It is a matter of very serious concern as a health hazard that has not just affected Singapore but also the southern part of West Malaysia."
He said Singapore's Ambassador in Jakarta has been instructed to inform the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry that Foreign Minister George Yeo would like to speak to his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa on Friday.
Singapore's Environment and Water Resources Minister, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, has also contacted his Indonesian counterpart to register the Republic's concerns.
Separately, Channel NewsAsia has learnt that Indonesia is the only ASEAN member that has not ratified the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.
The news network also understands that the Indonesian State Minister for the Environment, Prof Dr Gusti Muhammad Hatta, did not attend the 6th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution in Brunei on October 13.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has said flights at Changi Airport are not affected by the haze which reached unhealthy levels on Thursday.
The three-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading rose to 108 at 6pm. A PSI reading between 101-200 is considered unhealthy.
Responding to media queries, CAAS pointed out that Changi Airport is equipped with facilities and procedures to allow safe landing of aircraft in low visibility conditions.
This is in accordance with international standards.
The airport is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) which provides guidance to pilots for their landing on the runway.
CAAS said the pilot's decision to land is based on the Runway Visual Range, which is the range over which the pilot can see along the runway.
This can be reduced if the haze is severe.
CAAS said that flights can still land at Changi Airport safely even when the Runway Visual Range is below 500 metres.
The visibility reading at Changi Airport on Thursday is between 1,500 and 1,800 metres.
From past experience, the visibility at Changi Airport due to haze has not gone below 550 metres.
During the prolonged haze period in 1997, the lowest visibility reading at Changi Airport was about 800 metres.
Asked about the haze situation, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said: "It is a matter of very serious concern as a health hazard that has not just affected Singapore but also the southern part of West Malaysia."
He said Singapore's Ambassador in Jakarta has been instructed to inform the Indonesian Foreign Affairs Ministry that Foreign Minister George Yeo would like to speak to his Indonesian counterpart Marty Natalegawa on Friday.
Singapore's Environment and Water Resources Minister, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, has also contacted his Indonesian counterpart to register the Republic's concerns.
Separately, Channel NewsAsia has learnt that Indonesia is the only ASEAN member that has not ratified the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.
The news network also understands that the Indonesian State Minister for the Environment, Prof Dr Gusti Muhammad Hatta, did not attend the 6th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution in Brunei on October 13.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Big, bad haze for 3 more days
Big, bad haze for 3 more days
THE haze is here to stay at least for the next three days said the National Environment Agency (NEA) at a media briefing held yesterday to shed more light on the haze situation here.
However, Singaporeans need not be unduly alarmed as the haze, caused by fires in the Sumatran region of Indonesia, is unlikely to reach hazardous levels here.
Yesterday, the Pollutants Standards Index (PSI) level hit a high of 80, which is in the moderate region. The PSI levels will depend on the intensity of the fires, the wind direction and whether there is rain.
Mr Joseph Hui, Director-General of the Environmental Protection Division of the NEA, said: "If the wind blows in the West-North-West direction and the fires remain constant, it is likely that the PSI levels will increase."
He added that the western part of Singapore will be the most affected.
In response to my paper queries, a Ministry of Health spokesman said that cases of asthma, bronchitis and allergic conjunctivitis can be expected to increase due to the presence of irritants in the air. The spokesman said: "People are advised to avoid vigorous outdoor activities if the PSI is beyond 100 as the air is unhealthy."
News courtesy of Omy
THE haze is here to stay at least for the next three days said the National Environment Agency (NEA) at a media briefing held yesterday to shed more light on the haze situation here.
However, Singaporeans need not be unduly alarmed as the haze, caused by fires in the Sumatran region of Indonesia, is unlikely to reach hazardous levels here.
Yesterday, the Pollutants Standards Index (PSI) level hit a high of 80, which is in the moderate region. The PSI levels will depend on the intensity of the fires, the wind direction and whether there is rain.
Mr Joseph Hui, Director-General of the Environmental Protection Division of the NEA, said: "If the wind blows in the West-North-West direction and the fires remain constant, it is likely that the PSI levels will increase."
He added that the western part of Singapore will be the most affected.
In response to my paper queries, a Ministry of Health spokesman said that cases of asthma, bronchitis and allergic conjunctivitis can be expected to increase due to the presence of irritants in the air. The spokesman said: "People are advised to avoid vigorous outdoor activities if the PSI is beyond 100 as the air is unhealthy."
News courtesy of Omy
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Tiger Airways' passenger volume grows 18%
Tiger Airways' passenger volume grows 18% on-year
SINGAPORE: Mainboard-listed budget carrier Tiger Airways said it has maintained solid passenger volumes and load factors in August.
The total number of passengers in August grew by 18 per cent on-year to 442,000 compared to an 11 per cent increase in capacity.
From September 2009 to August 2010, Tiger Airways also said a total of 5.5 million passengers chose to fly with it.
That's an increase of 47 per cent over the 3.7 million passengers in the preceding 12 months.
The average load factor for the 12-month period to August 2010 was 86 per cent, an increase of five percentage points year-on-year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
SINGAPORE: Mainboard-listed budget carrier Tiger Airways said it has maintained solid passenger volumes and load factors in August.
The total number of passengers in August grew by 18 per cent on-year to 442,000 compared to an 11 per cent increase in capacity.
From September 2009 to August 2010, Tiger Airways also said a total of 5.5 million passengers chose to fly with it.
That's an increase of 47 per cent over the 3.7 million passengers in the preceding 12 months.
The average load factor for the 12-month period to August 2010 was 86 per cent, an increase of five percentage points year-on-year.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Singapore opens consulate in Batam
Singapore opens consulate in Batam
Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo visited Batam on Friday for the official opening of the Singapore Consulate in Batam.
The consulate in Batam is Singapore's third representation in Indonesia.
Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said the establishment underscores Singapore's strong ties with Indonesia, and in particular, the Riau Islands Province (KEPRI).
Besides providing consular services to Singaporeans in KEPRI, the Consulate will also help to promote and enhance exchanges between Singapore and KEPRI.
Mr Yeo also attended the Singapore National Day reception as Guest-of-Honour.
He met KEPRI Acting Governor Muhammad Sani, Vice-Governor-elect Soerya Respationo and guests at the National Day reception and discussed how Singapore and KEPRI could continue to strengthen their existing cooperation.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs George Yeo visited Batam on Friday for the official opening of the Singapore Consulate in Batam.
The consulate in Batam is Singapore's third representation in Indonesia.
Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said the establishment underscores Singapore's strong ties with Indonesia, and in particular, the Riau Islands Province (KEPRI).
Besides providing consular services to Singaporeans in KEPRI, the Consulate will also help to promote and enhance exchanges between Singapore and KEPRI.
Mr Yeo also attended the Singapore National Day reception as Guest-of-Honour.
He met KEPRI Acting Governor Muhammad Sani, Vice-Governor-elect Soerya Respationo and guests at the National Day reception and discussed how Singapore and KEPRI could continue to strengthen their existing cooperation.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Monday, August 2, 2010
Lower toll charges when using 2nd Link
Motorists enjoy lower toll charges when using Second Link
Starting Sunday, motorists will enjoy lower toll charges when they drive into or leave Singapore using the Second Link.
Some coach operators were worried that the lower charges would encourage more to use the link, which could cause jams.
They pay a toll of S$3.90 at the Second Link.
One operator, Grassland Express, is taking a wait-and-see approach.
That is because it said the toll does not form the bulk of operating costs.
Instead, it said that rising fuel costs could offset the 30 per cent or S$1.70 toll reduction.
But another coach operator is happy that toll has been reduced. Transtar told Channel NewsAsia that it plans to bring down fares by about 10 per cent.
Destinations that could possibly enjoy such reductions include Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Taiping in Perak and Alor Star in Kedah.
Transtar hopes that the move can make coach travel more attractive.
Sebastian Yap, executive director, Transtar, said: "Low cost carriers have been affecting us a bit. This will be a good opportunity for us to have some free area to adjust ourselves to be more competitive."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Starting Sunday, motorists will enjoy lower toll charges when they drive into or leave Singapore using the Second Link.
Some coach operators were worried that the lower charges would encourage more to use the link, which could cause jams.
They pay a toll of S$3.90 at the Second Link.
One operator, Grassland Express, is taking a wait-and-see approach.
That is because it said the toll does not form the bulk of operating costs.
Instead, it said that rising fuel costs could offset the 30 per cent or S$1.70 toll reduction.
But another coach operator is happy that toll has been reduced. Transtar told Channel NewsAsia that it plans to bring down fares by about 10 per cent.
Destinations that could possibly enjoy such reductions include Malacca, Kuala Lumpur, Taiping in Perak and Alor Star in Kedah.
Transtar hopes that the move can make coach travel more attractive.
Sebastian Yap, executive director, Transtar, said: "Low cost carriers have been affecting us a bit. This will be a good opportunity for us to have some free area to adjust ourselves to be more competitive."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thailand Travel Tips - Health
Medical Services
All tourism destinations and provincial capitals have hospitals and clinics staffed by well-trained doctors and nurse. In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can be summoned from any private hospital.
Vaccinations
As in most other countries, visitors do not require vaccinations unless coming from or passing through a designated contaminated area.
-Info courtesy of TAT-
All tourism destinations and provincial capitals have hospitals and clinics staffed by well-trained doctors and nurse. In the case of an emergency, an ambulance can be summoned from any private hospital.
Vaccinations
As in most other countries, visitors do not require vaccinations unless coming from or passing through a designated contaminated area.
-Info courtesy of TAT-
Thailand Travel Tips - Conservation
Conservation
Many species of wildlife are threatened with extinction, their numbers declining at an ever-accelerating due to human kinds insatiable greed to exploit nature to the limit. This sad situation will continue unabated unless every effort is made to check and hopefully reverse the trend. The only place where wild animals belong is in the wild, in their natural habitats, and both animals and the environment need to be protected.
* Do keep the environment clean. Rubbish thrown in the sea or discarded in the forest can be harmful, even deadly to creatures.
* Don't purchase any souvenirs or other items that are made from animal products, such as turtle shells or ivory.
* Don't purchase wild animals as pets, nor give support to animal owners who exploit wild creatures.
* Don't patronize restaurants or businesses that specialize in serving wild animal meat. It is against the law in Thailand to slaughter wild life for food.
* Do help us to better care for our wildlife and stop illegal activities by reporting any incidents to the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department,
Tel: 0 2562 0760. Website: www.dnp.go.th
-Info courtesy of TAT-
Many species of wildlife are threatened with extinction, their numbers declining at an ever-accelerating due to human kinds insatiable greed to exploit nature to the limit. This sad situation will continue unabated unless every effort is made to check and hopefully reverse the trend. The only place where wild animals belong is in the wild, in their natural habitats, and both animals and the environment need to be protected.
* Do keep the environment clean. Rubbish thrown in the sea or discarded in the forest can be harmful, even deadly to creatures.
* Don't purchase any souvenirs or other items that are made from animal products, such as turtle shells or ivory.
* Don't purchase wild animals as pets, nor give support to animal owners who exploit wild creatures.
* Don't patronize restaurants or businesses that specialize in serving wild animal meat. It is against the law in Thailand to slaughter wild life for food.
* Do help us to better care for our wildlife and stop illegal activities by reporting any incidents to the National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department,
Tel: 0 2562 0760. Website: www.dnp.go.th
-Info courtesy of TAT-
Thailand Travel Tips - Transportation
Transportation
* Visitors are adviced to only use authorised transportation services (limousines, public taxis or buses) from Bangkok International Airport into the city and other areas. For full information, there is a Transport Service Counter located in the airport's passenger arrival hall.
* Visitors who are unfamiliar with their way around, or who cannot speak Thai are best adviced to use their hotel's taxi service. Also, ask the hotel concierge to write your destination in Thai, as well as your hotel address so that taxi drivers are clear about where you want to go and where you will be returning to. Alternatively, Bangkok's Skytrain e;evated mass transit system, and MRTA Subway offers quick and easy access to major business, shopping and entertainment areas in the city.
* Be wary of unautorised and unsolicited persons offering their services as guides. Use only reliable licensed travel agents for guides or tours. Full information is available from the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) counters.
* General travel information can be obtained from the TAT counters in the Arrival Hall between 8.00am and 10.00pm. (Tel: 0 2525 8972-3)
-Info courtesy of TAT-
* Visitors are adviced to only use authorised transportation services (limousines, public taxis or buses) from Bangkok International Airport into the city and other areas. For full information, there is a Transport Service Counter located in the airport's passenger arrival hall.
* Visitors who are unfamiliar with their way around, or who cannot speak Thai are best adviced to use their hotel's taxi service. Also, ask the hotel concierge to write your destination in Thai, as well as your hotel address so that taxi drivers are clear about where you want to go and where you will be returning to. Alternatively, Bangkok's Skytrain e;evated mass transit system, and MRTA Subway offers quick and easy access to major business, shopping and entertainment areas in the city.
* Be wary of unautorised and unsolicited persons offering their services as guides. Use only reliable licensed travel agents for guides or tours. Full information is available from the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) counters.
* General travel information can be obtained from the TAT counters in the Arrival Hall between 8.00am and 10.00pm. (Tel: 0 2525 8972-3)
-Info courtesy of TAT-
Thailand Travel Tips - Shopping
Shopping Tips
There is more to shop in Thailand than just acquiring a souvenir or two. A huge variety of buys, combined with creative design, quality workmanship and extremely competitive prices, make Thailand arguably the most rewarding shopping destination in Asia.
Shopping is indeed a pleasure in Thailand, but to ensure it is a total joy it is worth keeping in mind some simple points.
* Bargaining: Fixed priced apply in department stores and some shops in Bangkok; otherwise, bargaining is acceptable even expected. Generally, the price asked for can be reduced by 10%-40%. No hard and fast rules apply, but remember Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humour and can be put off by loud voices and loss of temper. Patience and a smile are what count.
* Gems & Jewellery: Remember there is no such thing as a bargain when buying gems or jewellery, there is only good value. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Choose jewellery stores carefully and do compare prices from shop to shop.
* Touts: Avoid touts or unsolicited new-found friends who offer to take you shopping. Stores give commissions to such people and the cost is reflected in the price you pay.
* Receipts: When purchasing gems, jewellery or other luxury items, obtain a receipt and check it is correct before leaving the shop.
The Jewel Fest Club
Jewellery and gemstones from Thailand are also a favourite item for many visitors to the kingdom. Their beauty, quality craftmanship and reasonable price have earned Thai precious and semi-precious stones a worldwide reputation. Yet occasionally, there have been visitors who complained about the action of few unethical jewellers who persuaded them to purchase jewellery at an unreasonable price.
Through the cooperation of the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Jewel Fest Club has been established, bringing about 100 leading jewellery manufacturers and wholesalers. The club's aim to offer quality products at reasonable prices with a money-back guarantee if buyers are not completely satisfied with their purchases.
When you purchase an item of jewellery from a store that is clearly identified as a member of the Jewel Fest Club, your purchase will be duly recorded, and a certificate detailing your purchase will be issued. Not only does this certificate of authenticity clearly state the nature and price of your purchase, it also guarantees your refund should you wish to return the purchase. Contact The Jewel Fest Club at Tel: 0 2630 1390-7, Fax: 0 2630 1398-9, or visit website : www.jewelfest.com.
VAT Refund
Visitors entering the Kingdom on tourist visas are entitled to refunds of the 7% value-added tax (VAT) paid on goods purchased at shops and department stores displaying "VAT Refund for Tourists" signs. The refund may be claimed if the claimed amounts in all P.P.10's have been totaled 5,000 baht or over. Tourist is eligible to receive P.P.10 form when the total purchase of 2,000 baht or over is made from the same store on the same date. Before checking in at the international airport (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Phuket, Utapao), tourist must show your purchases, completed P.P.10 form and tax invoices to the Customs Officer for inspection. Certain luxury goods must be shown to an excise official. Refunds may be in bank draft form or credited to a credit card. For more information, please contact the VAT Refund for Tourists Office, Tel: 0 2272 9388, 0 2272 8195-8 or www.rd.go.th/vrt/engindex.html
Where to shop in Bangkok
Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two major streets, but offers many areas throughout the city affording ample choice and easy access. The following is just a selection of some of the principal shopping districts.
* Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong
Top department stores and luxury shopping malls are concentrated in the area, namely central, Sogo, Gaysorn Plaza, Isetan, Zen, Amarin Plaza, Peninsula Plaza, All of which together make the largest shopping promenade in Bangkok. Furthermore, the Central World Plaza and Narayana Phand Pavillion, host the official handicraft centre selling items from all parts of the country. Ratchaprasong intersection is the gateway to several shopping areas such as Ploenchit-Sukhumvit, Siam Square-Mah Boon Krong, Silom and Pratunam-Phetchaburi.
* Silom-Surawong-Patpong
Silom Road is the main artery of Bangkok's commercial heart and is paralleled by Surawong road, while Patpong runs crosswise between the two. In addition to housing dozens of specialist shops and boutiques representing all the major buys, this area also boasts many branches of well-known retailers and several shopping plazas. Street stalls also abound, most notably at Patpong's famous night market
* Silom-Mahesak-New road
Silom leads into New Road which parallel the Chao Phraya River, and notable shopping opportunities include gems and jewellery stores (Mahesak road is a gem trading centre), Oriental Plaza and River City shopping complex.
* Sukhumvit
Like Silom, Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok's main thoroughfares, and the long road is lined with shops, boutiques and modern shopping plazas ranging from Soi 3 (Nana Nua) up to Soi 63 (Ekamai). Most shops and restaurants are concentrated between Soi 3 and Soi 21 (Asoke) and along shortcuts between Asoke and Ekamai.
* Chinatown
Centre on Yaowarat Road and Sampheng Lane, Bangkok's Chinatown offers a profusion or gold shops as well as two nearby traditional shopping places, Ban Mo Jewellery Street and Phahurat ClothMarket.
* Bang Lamphu
Situated close to the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bang Lamphu has a lively market where clothing is a popular buy.
* Pratunam-Phetchaburi
A highlight in the distinct is Pratunam market, one of Bangkok's biggest centres for ready-to-wear clothing.
* Baiyoke Tower
Located next to Bangkok's tallest hotel building, Baiyoke Tower is one of the city's renowned garment centres.
* Nailert Market
Situated close to Pratunum Market, Nai Lert Market is one of many shopping areas in Bangkok where you can buy just about everything from clothing to handicrafts.
* Bo-Be Market
Situated close to Bangkok Railway Station, Bo-be is one of the city's renowned ready-to-wear clothing centres, both wholesale and retail.
* Bangkok International Airport
Centre for an extensive range of shops offering a full selection of Thailand's top buys.
Shopping & Department Stores
* Amerin Plaza
Ploenchit Road, Tel : 0 2255 0831
* Future Park Rangsit
Phaholyothin Road, Tel : 0 2958 0080
* Gaysorn Plaza
Ploenchit Road, Tel : 0 2656 1149
* Mah Boon Krong Centre (MBK),
Opp Siam Square
* Nailert Plaza
Phetchaburi Road, Tel : 0-2255-8970-2
* Narayana Phand
Ratchadamri Road, Tel : 0 2252 4670-9
* Peninsula Plaza
Ratchadamri Road, Tel : 0 2253 9763
* Ploenchit Centre
Sukhumvit Road, Tel : 0 2656 8989-90 (Inter Outlet)
* River City
Yota Road, Tel : 0 2237 0077-8
* Seacon Square
Sri Nakharin Road, Tel : 0 2721 8888
* Seri Centre
Sri Nakharin Road, Tel : 0 2746 0123
* Siam Centre
Rama 1 Road, Tel : 0 2658 1000-19
* Siam Discovery Centre
Rama 1 Road, Tel : 0 2658 1000-19
* Times Square
Sukhumvit Road, Tel : 0 2253 9333
-Info courtesy of TAT-
There is more to shop in Thailand than just acquiring a souvenir or two. A huge variety of buys, combined with creative design, quality workmanship and extremely competitive prices, make Thailand arguably the most rewarding shopping destination in Asia.
Shopping is indeed a pleasure in Thailand, but to ensure it is a total joy it is worth keeping in mind some simple points.
* Bargaining: Fixed priced apply in department stores and some shops in Bangkok; otherwise, bargaining is acceptable even expected. Generally, the price asked for can be reduced by 10%-40%. No hard and fast rules apply, but remember Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humour and can be put off by loud voices and loss of temper. Patience and a smile are what count.
* Gems & Jewellery: Remember there is no such thing as a bargain when buying gems or jewellery, there is only good value. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Choose jewellery stores carefully and do compare prices from shop to shop.
* Touts: Avoid touts or unsolicited new-found friends who offer to take you shopping. Stores give commissions to such people and the cost is reflected in the price you pay.
* Receipts: When purchasing gems, jewellery or other luxury items, obtain a receipt and check it is correct before leaving the shop.
The Jewel Fest Club
Jewellery and gemstones from Thailand are also a favourite item for many visitors to the kingdom. Their beauty, quality craftmanship and reasonable price have earned Thai precious and semi-precious stones a worldwide reputation. Yet occasionally, there have been visitors who complained about the action of few unethical jewellers who persuaded them to purchase jewellery at an unreasonable price.
Through the cooperation of the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Jewel Fest Club has been established, bringing about 100 leading jewellery manufacturers and wholesalers. The club's aim to offer quality products at reasonable prices with a money-back guarantee if buyers are not completely satisfied with their purchases.
When you purchase an item of jewellery from a store that is clearly identified as a member of the Jewel Fest Club, your purchase will be duly recorded, and a certificate detailing your purchase will be issued. Not only does this certificate of authenticity clearly state the nature and price of your purchase, it also guarantees your refund should you wish to return the purchase. Contact The Jewel Fest Club at Tel: 0 2630 1390-7, Fax: 0 2630 1398-9, or visit website : www.jewelfest.com.
VAT Refund
Visitors entering the Kingdom on tourist visas are entitled to refunds of the 7% value-added tax (VAT) paid on goods purchased at shops and department stores displaying "VAT Refund for Tourists" signs. The refund may be claimed if the claimed amounts in all P.P.10's have been totaled 5,000 baht or over. Tourist is eligible to receive P.P.10 form when the total purchase of 2,000 baht or over is made from the same store on the same date. Before checking in at the international airport (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Phuket, Utapao), tourist must show your purchases, completed P.P.10 form and tax invoices to the Customs Officer for inspection. Certain luxury goods must be shown to an excise official. Refunds may be in bank draft form or credited to a credit card. For more information, please contact the VAT Refund for Tourists Office, Tel: 0 2272 9388, 0 2272 8195-8 or www.rd.go.th/vrt/engindex.html
Where to shop in Bangkok
Shopping in Bangkok is not limited to one or two major streets, but offers many areas throughout the city affording ample choice and easy access. The following is just a selection of some of the principal shopping districts.
* Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong
Top department stores and luxury shopping malls are concentrated in the area, namely central, Sogo, Gaysorn Plaza, Isetan, Zen, Amarin Plaza, Peninsula Plaza, All of which together make the largest shopping promenade in Bangkok. Furthermore, the Central World Plaza and Narayana Phand Pavillion, host the official handicraft centre selling items from all parts of the country. Ratchaprasong intersection is the gateway to several shopping areas such as Ploenchit-Sukhumvit, Siam Square-Mah Boon Krong, Silom and Pratunam-Phetchaburi.
* Silom-Surawong-Patpong
Silom Road is the main artery of Bangkok's commercial heart and is paralleled by Surawong road, while Patpong runs crosswise between the two. In addition to housing dozens of specialist shops and boutiques representing all the major buys, this area also boasts many branches of well-known retailers and several shopping plazas. Street stalls also abound, most notably at Patpong's famous night market
* Silom-Mahesak-New road
Silom leads into New Road which parallel the Chao Phraya River, and notable shopping opportunities include gems and jewellery stores (Mahesak road is a gem trading centre), Oriental Plaza and River City shopping complex.
* Sukhumvit
Like Silom, Sukhumvit is one of Bangkok's main thoroughfares, and the long road is lined with shops, boutiques and modern shopping plazas ranging from Soi 3 (Nana Nua) up to Soi 63 (Ekamai). Most shops and restaurants are concentrated between Soi 3 and Soi 21 (Asoke) and along shortcuts between Asoke and Ekamai.
* Chinatown
Centre on Yaowarat Road and Sampheng Lane, Bangkok's Chinatown offers a profusion or gold shops as well as two nearby traditional shopping places, Ban Mo Jewellery Street and Phahurat ClothMarket.
* Bang Lamphu
Situated close to the Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bang Lamphu has a lively market where clothing is a popular buy.
* Pratunam-Phetchaburi
A highlight in the distinct is Pratunam market, one of Bangkok's biggest centres for ready-to-wear clothing.
* Baiyoke Tower
Located next to Bangkok's tallest hotel building, Baiyoke Tower is one of the city's renowned garment centres.
* Nailert Market
Situated close to Pratunum Market, Nai Lert Market is one of many shopping areas in Bangkok where you can buy just about everything from clothing to handicrafts.
* Bo-Be Market
Situated close to Bangkok Railway Station, Bo-be is one of the city's renowned ready-to-wear clothing centres, both wholesale and retail.
* Bangkok International Airport
Centre for an extensive range of shops offering a full selection of Thailand's top buys.
Shopping & Department Stores
* Amerin Plaza
Ploenchit Road, Tel : 0 2255 0831
* Future Park Rangsit
Phaholyothin Road, Tel : 0 2958 0080
* Gaysorn Plaza
Ploenchit Road, Tel : 0 2656 1149
* Mah Boon Krong Centre (MBK),
Opp Siam Square
* Nailert Plaza
Phetchaburi Road, Tel : 0-2255-8970-2
* Narayana Phand
Ratchadamri Road, Tel : 0 2252 4670-9
* Peninsula Plaza
Ratchadamri Road, Tel : 0 2253 9763
* Ploenchit Centre
Sukhumvit Road, Tel : 0 2656 8989-90 (Inter Outlet)
* River City
Yota Road, Tel : 0 2237 0077-8
* Seacon Square
Sri Nakharin Road, Tel : 0 2721 8888
* Seri Centre
Sri Nakharin Road, Tel : 0 2746 0123
* Siam Centre
Rama 1 Road, Tel : 0 2658 1000-19
* Siam Discovery Centre
Rama 1 Road, Tel : 0 2658 1000-19
* Times Square
Sukhumvit Road, Tel : 0 2253 9333
-Info courtesy of TAT-
Thailand Travel Tips - Social Norms
Social Norms : The Thais are very sociable and tolerant towards visitors. At the same time they do have, as do all people, accepted social codes of behavior. Although these customs are not as rigid as the conduct regarding the monarchy and religion, an awareness of them by foreigners is always appreciated, even expected in some rural areas where old ways are more rigidly adhered to than in Bangkok.
* Greeting: Thais do not shake hands when they greet one another, instead they press the palms of their hands together chest - or - chin high and bow the head. The gesture is known as the wai. Generally, younger people will wai an elder, who then returns the greeting. Also, it is a strict custom, the wai is held higher by a person greeting someone senior in rank or age. That however is a finer point, and a visitor who observers how Thais greet and tries to make a similar gesture will be much appreciated.
* Head and Feet: These are considered, respectively, to be the highest and lowest parts of the body. Therefore, don't touch anyone on the head , even in a friendly gesture. Moreover, as will be seen in social gatherings, younger people will try to keep their heads lower than those of their elders, and should they past by they will bow their heads as a sign of respect. The same can also be apply between people of lower and higher social rank. As for the feet, it is considered extremely rude to point to a person or an object with one's feet. When sitting opposite anyone, the feet should be tucked away.
* Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon. Today, some westernized Thai couples may be seen holding hands, mainly among the young in cosmopolitan Bangkok, but this is as far as it goes in polite society.
* Loss of temper: To lose one's temper, especially in public, is regarded as bad manners. Nor does it achieve anything, and one is far more likely to get what one wants by keeping a cool head and concealing emotions. The best advice is always to keep a sense of humour, smile and look on the bright side of things.
* Form of Address: Don't be offended if you are addressed by your first name. This is the normal Thai way, the given name being usually preceded by the universal title khun, which means Mr., Mrs., and Miss. As for Thai names, these are often quite long; thus, all thais have nicknames. So if you find yourself presented with a tongue-twister, don't be afraid to ask politely for the shorter version of the name. Also, don't be offended if someone who knows little English calls out "Hey, you". This is not mean to be offensive, but rather a straight forward translation of the polite Thai greeting. Also, Thais commonly greet each other in the street with "pai nai?", where are you going? Again, this is neither impolite, nor do they expect a literal response.
* Sanuk: This is a Thai word that defies direct translation, but means to have fun and can refer to everything that is enjoyable and gives a feeling of pleasure. It is widely used and is indicative of a culture that considers it would be a dull world if it was all work and no pleasure.
* Mai Pen Rai: Another characteristic Thai phrase which means never mind, it doesn't matter - a concept well worth keeping in mind.
-Info courtesy of TAT-
* Greeting: Thais do not shake hands when they greet one another, instead they press the palms of their hands together chest - or - chin high and bow the head. The gesture is known as the wai. Generally, younger people will wai an elder, who then returns the greeting. Also, it is a strict custom, the wai is held higher by a person greeting someone senior in rank or age. That however is a finer point, and a visitor who observers how Thais greet and tries to make a similar gesture will be much appreciated.
* Head and Feet: These are considered, respectively, to be the highest and lowest parts of the body. Therefore, don't touch anyone on the head , even in a friendly gesture. Moreover, as will be seen in social gatherings, younger people will try to keep their heads lower than those of their elders, and should they past by they will bow their heads as a sign of respect. The same can also be apply between people of lower and higher social rank. As for the feet, it is considered extremely rude to point to a person or an object with one's feet. When sitting opposite anyone, the feet should be tucked away.
* Displays of Affection: Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon. Today, some westernized Thai couples may be seen holding hands, mainly among the young in cosmopolitan Bangkok, but this is as far as it goes in polite society.
* Loss of temper: To lose one's temper, especially in public, is regarded as bad manners. Nor does it achieve anything, and one is far more likely to get what one wants by keeping a cool head and concealing emotions. The best advice is always to keep a sense of humour, smile and look on the bright side of things.
* Form of Address: Don't be offended if you are addressed by your first name. This is the normal Thai way, the given name being usually preceded by the universal title khun, which means Mr., Mrs., and Miss. As for Thai names, these are often quite long; thus, all thais have nicknames. So if you find yourself presented with a tongue-twister, don't be afraid to ask politely for the shorter version of the name. Also, don't be offended if someone who knows little English calls out "Hey, you". This is not mean to be offensive, but rather a straight forward translation of the polite Thai greeting. Also, Thais commonly greet each other in the street with "pai nai?", where are you going? Again, this is neither impolite, nor do they expect a literal response.
* Sanuk: This is a Thai word that defies direct translation, but means to have fun and can refer to everything that is enjoyable and gives a feeling of pleasure. It is widely used and is indicative of a culture that considers it would be a dull world if it was all work and no pleasure.
* Mai Pen Rai: Another characteristic Thai phrase which means never mind, it doesn't matter - a concept well worth keeping in mind.
-Info courtesy of TAT-
Thailand Travel Tips - Religion
Travel Tips
Religion :Thailand is a devoutly Buddhist country in which more than 90% of the population professes and practices the faith. Due to respect to Buddhism and its symbols, most especially Buddha statues, should be shown as a matter of simple good manners regardless of one's own religious persuasion. The Thais themselves are respectful of other religions and Thai law has several special sections concerning religious offences. It is, for example, unlawful to cause any offence to a religion within Thailand. Similarly, any person causing a disturbance at a religious assembly or gathering is liable to prosecution. For practical purposes, here are a few tips of what to do and what not to do when visiting religious places:
* Remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist chapel where religious images are enshrined. Do likewise when entering a mosque, for which permission should be asked, and do not enter when there is a religious gathering.
* Dress neatly and appropriately. Unsuitable attire includes sleeveless shirts and blouses, short skirts, shorts above the knee and hot pants. At a mosque, women should be well covered in a long skirt or trousers, long sleeved blouse buttoned to the neck and a head scarf.
* Don't touch a Buddhist monk if you are a woman, monks are sworn to celibacy and are forbidden from even the slightest physical contact with a woman. Should a woman wish to pass something to a monk, it should first be handed to a man for him to pass on. Alternatively, a monk may spread a piece of cloth in front of him on which a woman may place her gift.
* Don't climb up on a Buddha stature to take a photograph, or do anything that might show lack of respect. Every Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a scared object.
Religion :Thailand is a devoutly Buddhist country in which more than 90% of the population professes and practices the faith. Due to respect to Buddhism and its symbols, most especially Buddha statues, should be shown as a matter of simple good manners regardless of one's own religious persuasion. The Thais themselves are respectful of other religions and Thai law has several special sections concerning religious offences. It is, for example, unlawful to cause any offence to a religion within Thailand. Similarly, any person causing a disturbance at a religious assembly or gathering is liable to prosecution. For practical purposes, here are a few tips of what to do and what not to do when visiting religious places:
* Remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist chapel where religious images are enshrined. Do likewise when entering a mosque, for which permission should be asked, and do not enter when there is a religious gathering.
* Dress neatly and appropriately. Unsuitable attire includes sleeveless shirts and blouses, short skirts, shorts above the knee and hot pants. At a mosque, women should be well covered in a long skirt or trousers, long sleeved blouse buttoned to the neck and a head scarf.
* Don't touch a Buddhist monk if you are a woman, monks are sworn to celibacy and are forbidden from even the slightest physical contact with a woman. Should a woman wish to pass something to a monk, it should first be handed to a man for him to pass on. Alternatively, a monk may spread a piece of cloth in front of him on which a woman may place her gift.
* Don't climb up on a Buddha stature to take a photograph, or do anything that might show lack of respect. Every Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a scared object.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Why travel solo when you can trip pool?
Why travel solo when you can trip pool?
PROJECT engineer Aloysius Liow went on a graduation trip to Taiwan five years ago with five women he did not know. The 30-year-old met them for the first time only two hours before their flight.
Mr Liow's roommate had pulled him in as a travel buddy for the eight-day trip. The five women were people his roommate knew from church. Through an idea similar to car pooling, trip pooling involves getting people who do not know one another to go on a holiday together.
The "trip poolers" are gathered from websites and forums, or through recommendations by friends.
The trips that these travellers take up are getting popular with working adults aged 21 to 35 in Singapore, according to Ms Eunice Tan, the creator of the Singapore Travel Buddies Group on Facebook, which has a total of 450 fans.
The 27-year-old engineer organises four such trips a year, up from just two five years ago. "Singaporeans love to travel but they don't want to take up standard tour packages," said Ms Tan.
And, if they are not holidaying with their families, many would prefer not to travel alone, she added. Their friends may not be able to join them for a trip because of the difficulty of matching the dates of their annual leave.
"Finding strangers to accompany you on your trip probably serves as a solution," she said. Travelling with strangers instead of going solo also helps save money, said fans of such arrangements.
Ms Tan, who has been on 20 such trips, said that the cost of land tour packages, accommodation and transport can be split among the travellers the larger the group, the less each individual pays.
-News courtesy of Omy-
PROJECT engineer Aloysius Liow went on a graduation trip to Taiwan five years ago with five women he did not know. The 30-year-old met them for the first time only two hours before their flight.
Mr Liow's roommate had pulled him in as a travel buddy for the eight-day trip. The five women were people his roommate knew from church. Through an idea similar to car pooling, trip pooling involves getting people who do not know one another to go on a holiday together.
The "trip poolers" are gathered from websites and forums, or through recommendations by friends.
The trips that these travellers take up are getting popular with working adults aged 21 to 35 in Singapore, according to Ms Eunice Tan, the creator of the Singapore Travel Buddies Group on Facebook, which has a total of 450 fans.
The 27-year-old engineer organises four such trips a year, up from just two five years ago. "Singaporeans love to travel but they don't want to take up standard tour packages," said Ms Tan.
And, if they are not holidaying with their families, many would prefer not to travel alone, she added. Their friends may not be able to join them for a trip because of the difficulty of matching the dates of their annual leave.
"Finding strangers to accompany you on your trip probably serves as a solution," she said. Travelling with strangers instead of going solo also helps save money, said fans of such arrangements.
Ms Tan, who has been on 20 such trips, said that the cost of land tour packages, accommodation and transport can be split among the travellers the larger the group, the less each individual pays.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Visa free for Malaysia
No visa is required for U.S.A. citizens visiting Malaysia for social, business or academic purposes (except for employment).
No visa is required for a stay of less than one month for nationals of all ASEAN countries except Myanmar. For a stay exceeding one month a visa will be required, except for nationals Brunei and Singapore.
Nationals of countries other than those stated above (with the exception of Israel) are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month.
For national of Israel, visas are required and permission must be granted from Ministry Of Home Affairs.
For national of Republic of Serbia and Republic of Montenegro, visas are required without permission granted from Ministry Of Home Affairs.
No visa is required for a stay of less than one month for nationals of all ASEAN countries except Myanmar. For a stay exceeding one month a visa will be required, except for nationals Brunei and Singapore.
Nationals of countries other than those stated above (with the exception of Israel) are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a visit not exceeding one month.
For national of Israel, visas are required and permission must be granted from Ministry Of Home Affairs.
For national of Republic of Serbia and Republic of Montenegro, visas are required without permission granted from Ministry Of Home Affairs.
Visa for Malaysia (2)
Countries That Require Visa For a Stay Exceeding 3 Months
Albania
Algeria
Argentina
Australia
Austria (Vienna)
Bahrain
Belgium
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Brazil
Croatia
Cuba
Czech Republic
Denmark
Egypt
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Jordan
Kirgystan
Kuwait
Kyrgyz Republic Lebanon
Lienchestien
Luxembourg
Morocco
Netherland
Norway
Oman
Peru
Poland
Qatar
Romania
St Marino
Saudi Arabia
Slovakia
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Yemen
Countries That Require Visa For a Stay Exceeding 1 Month
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Barbados
Belarus
Benin
Bolivia
Bulgaria
Cambodia
Cape Verde
Chad
Chile
Costa Rica
Equador
El Savador
Estonia
Gabon
Georgia
Greece
Guatemala
Guinea Republic
Haiti
Honduras
Hong Kong SAR
Kazakhstan
Latvia
Lithuania
Macao SAR
Macedonia Madagascar
Maldova
Mauritania
Mexico
Monaco
Mongalia
Nicaragua
North Korea
North Yemen
Panama
Paraguay
Portugal
Russia
Sao Tome & Principe
Senegal
Slovenia
Sudan
Surinam
Tajikistan
Togo
Ukraine
Upper Volta
Uzbekistan
Vatican City
Venezuela
Zaire
Zimbabwe
Countries That Require Visa For a Stay Exceeding 14 Days
Iran (90 days)
Iraq (30 days)
Libya
Macao (Travel Permit/Portugal CI)
Palestine (30 days)
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Yemen
Syria (30 days)
Albania
Algeria
Argentina
Australia
Austria (Vienna)
Bahrain
Belgium
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Brazil
Croatia
Cuba
Czech Republic
Denmark
Egypt
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Jordan
Kirgystan
Kuwait
Kyrgyz Republic Lebanon
Lienchestien
Luxembourg
Morocco
Netherland
Norway
Oman
Peru
Poland
Qatar
Romania
St Marino
Saudi Arabia
Slovakia
South Korea
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Yemen
Countries That Require Visa For a Stay Exceeding 1 Month
Armenia
Azerbaijan
Barbados
Belarus
Benin
Bolivia
Bulgaria
Cambodia
Cape Verde
Chad
Chile
Costa Rica
Equador
El Savador
Estonia
Gabon
Georgia
Greece
Guatemala
Guinea Republic
Haiti
Honduras
Hong Kong SAR
Kazakhstan
Latvia
Lithuania
Macao SAR
Macedonia Madagascar
Maldova
Mauritania
Mexico
Monaco
Mongalia
Nicaragua
North Korea
North Yemen
Panama
Paraguay
Portugal
Russia
Sao Tome & Principe
Senegal
Slovenia
Sudan
Surinam
Tajikistan
Togo
Ukraine
Upper Volta
Uzbekistan
Vatican City
Venezuela
Zaire
Zimbabwe
Countries That Require Visa For a Stay Exceeding 14 Days
Iran (90 days)
Iraq (30 days)
Libya
Macao (Travel Permit/Portugal CI)
Palestine (30 days)
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Yemen
Syria (30 days)
Visa for Malaysia (1)
Countries That Require Visa
Afghanistan (Visa With Reference)
Angola
Bhutan
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Central African Republic
China
Colombia
Comoros
Congo Democratic Republic
Congo Republic
Cote D'Ivoire
Djibouti
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea Ethiopia
Guinea-Bissau
Hong Kong (C/I or D/I)
India
Liberia
Mali
Myanmar (normal passport)
Nepal
Niger
Rwanda
Serbia & Montenegro
Taiwan
United Nations (Laissez Passer)
Western Sahara
Commonwealth Countries That Require Visa
Bangladesh
Cameroon
Ghana
Mozambique
Nigeria
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Afghanistan (Visa With Reference)
Angola
Bhutan
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Central African Republic
China
Colombia
Comoros
Congo Democratic Republic
Congo Republic
Cote D'Ivoire
Djibouti
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea Ethiopia
Guinea-Bissau
Hong Kong (C/I or D/I)
India
Liberia
Mali
Myanmar (normal passport)
Nepal
Niger
Rwanda
Serbia & Montenegro
Taiwan
United Nations (Laissez Passer)
Western Sahara
Commonwealth Countries That Require Visa
Bangladesh
Cameroon
Ghana
Mozambique
Nigeria
Pakistan
Sri Lanka
Entry requirements for Malaysia
To enter Malaysia, a visitor should fulfill the following conditions:
i. Passport or Travel Document
Every person entering Malaysia must possess a valid national Passport or internationally recognized Travel Document valid for travelling to Malaysia.
Any person not in possession of a Passport or Travel Document which is recognized by the Malaysian Government must obtain a Document in lieu of Passport.
Application for the Document in lieu of Passport can be made at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad.
Holders of Travel Documents such as Certificate of Identity, Laisser Passer, Titre de Voyage, Permanent Residence Certificate must ensure that their return ability to the country of origin is assured.
The documents shall be valid, for more than six (6) months from the date of entry.
ii. Fulfill visa requirement
A visa is an endorsement in a passport or other recognized travel document of foreigner indicating that the holder has applied for permission to enter Malaysia and that permission has been granted.
Foreign nationals who require a Visa to enter Malaysia must apply and obtain a Visa in advance at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad before entering the country.
Visa which has been granted is not absolute guarantee that the holder will be allowed to enter Malaysia. The final decision lies with the Immigration Officer at the entry point.
iii. Valid return travel ticket and sufficient funds
A visitor is also required to proof his financial ability to stay in Malaysia and a confirm ticket to a third country.
iv. Not a prohibited person
Any person classified under Section 8 of Immigration Act 1959/63 will not be allowed to enter Malaysia even though he/she is in possession of a valid Passport or Travel Document, Visa, travel ticket and sufficient funds.
v. Complete in the arrival/departure card
A visitor is required to complete the Arrival/Departure Card (Imm.26) upon arrival at the gazette entry points. This card is obtainable at any entry point, Malaysian Representative office abroad or travel agencies.
A visitor must present his/her passport together with the duly completed arrival / departure card to the Immigration officer on duty and he/she must ensure that the passport or travel document is endorsed with the appropriate pass before leaving the immigration counter.
-Info courtesy of Malaysian Immigration Dept-
i. Passport or Travel Document
Every person entering Malaysia must possess a valid national Passport or internationally recognized Travel Document valid for travelling to Malaysia.
Any person not in possession of a Passport or Travel Document which is recognized by the Malaysian Government must obtain a Document in lieu of Passport.
Application for the Document in lieu of Passport can be made at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad.
Holders of Travel Documents such as Certificate of Identity, Laisser Passer, Titre de Voyage, Permanent Residence Certificate must ensure that their return ability to the country of origin is assured.
The documents shall be valid, for more than six (6) months from the date of entry.
ii. Fulfill visa requirement
A visa is an endorsement in a passport or other recognized travel document of foreigner indicating that the holder has applied for permission to enter Malaysia and that permission has been granted.
Foreign nationals who require a Visa to enter Malaysia must apply and obtain a Visa in advance at any Malaysian Representative Office abroad before entering the country.
Visa which has been granted is not absolute guarantee that the holder will be allowed to enter Malaysia. The final decision lies with the Immigration Officer at the entry point.
iii. Valid return travel ticket and sufficient funds
A visitor is also required to proof his financial ability to stay in Malaysia and a confirm ticket to a third country.
iv. Not a prohibited person
Any person classified under Section 8 of Immigration Act 1959/63 will not be allowed to enter Malaysia even though he/she is in possession of a valid Passport or Travel Document, Visa, travel ticket and sufficient funds.
v. Complete in the arrival/departure card
A visitor is required to complete the Arrival/Departure Card (Imm.26) upon arrival at the gazette entry points. This card is obtainable at any entry point, Malaysian Representative office abroad or travel agencies.
A visitor must present his/her passport together with the duly completed arrival / departure card to the Immigration officer on duty and he/she must ensure that the passport or travel document is endorsed with the appropriate pass before leaving the immigration counter.
-Info courtesy of Malaysian Immigration Dept-
Monday, July 12, 2010
Full electronic toll payment at Lima Kedai
Beginning 10.00 am on 15 July, only electronic toll payment through PLUSMiles card, Touch ‘n Go card or SmartTAG will be accepted at Lima Kedai Toll Plaza on the Secondlink.
Currently, all toll transactions at the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza on the Secondlink and the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Toll Plaza at the Johor Bahru Causeway are conducted electronically.
According to the PLUS Expressways Managing Director, Noorizah Hj Abd Hamid, “This initiative is aimed at ensuring smooth travel and reduce congestion and thus, supporting the Government’s call to preserve the environment as well.”
“As such, all cash transactions at Lima Kedai toll plaza will no longer be available. Electronic toll payments will ensure faster transactions at the toll plazas resulting in more convenience to highway users especially during festive seasons and long holidays.”
PLUS urges those who ply the Secondlink to get their PLUSMiles or Touch’n Go cards from any of the PLUS Customer Service Centres or petrol stations such as Petronas, Shell, Esso, Caltex and BHP in Johor Bahru.
-News courtesy of Plus-
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Tiger Airways passengers lost items in luggage
10 Tiger Airways passengers lost items in luggage
In the past six months, some ten passengers who flew on a particular Tiger Airways flight have filed claims for missing items from their luggage.
They said they discovered this when they arrived at their destination.
Passenger Steven Liang said: "The security lock on my suitcase was missing. I opened my suitcase and saw that it was very messy inside. My brand new iPhone was missing. I bought it in Hong Kong."
Mr Liang said this happened when he flew to Shenzhen, China on Flight TR2952 on May 26.
He said he had asked the airport staff in Shenzhen for help. He was shown a chart containing information on luggage arrivals from international flights.
From the information on the chart, he realised that there had been 10 cases of missing items on this particular flight since December. The highest amount lost was 10,400 renminbi, which is more than S$2,000.
The budget carrier states on its website that it tries to respond to letters within 21 working days.
It lists its hotline and fax numbers as well as mailing address on its website, but does not provide an email address for feedback or complaints.
However, MediaCorp understands that several of the victims who had contacted Tiger Airways still have not heard from the airline.
Tiger Airways told MediaCorp it had received the complaints, but said it was not responsible for the loss of items.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
In the past six months, some ten passengers who flew on a particular Tiger Airways flight have filed claims for missing items from their luggage.
They said they discovered this when they arrived at their destination.
Passenger Steven Liang said: "The security lock on my suitcase was missing. I opened my suitcase and saw that it was very messy inside. My brand new iPhone was missing. I bought it in Hong Kong."
Mr Liang said this happened when he flew to Shenzhen, China on Flight TR2952 on May 26.
He said he had asked the airport staff in Shenzhen for help. He was shown a chart containing information on luggage arrivals from international flights.
From the information on the chart, he realised that there had been 10 cases of missing items on this particular flight since December. The highest amount lost was 10,400 renminbi, which is more than S$2,000.
The budget carrier states on its website that it tries to respond to letters within 21 working days.
It lists its hotline and fax numbers as well as mailing address on its website, but does not provide an email address for feedback or complaints.
However, MediaCorp understands that several of the victims who had contacted Tiger Airways still have not heard from the airline.
Tiger Airways told MediaCorp it had received the complaints, but said it was not responsible for the loss of items.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Tiger launches low-cost priority boarding service
Tiger launches low-cost priority boarding service
Budget carrier Tiger Airways has launched a low-cost priority boarding service called boardmefirst.
Tiger Airways Singapore managing director Rosalynn Tay said this new service will complement other services like allowing passengers to pay in proportion to the weight of check-in luggage and selecting their seats.
These ancillary services have been contributing to Tiger's revenue streams.
Boardmefirst is now available on its international flights and costs S$6 per passenger per flight sector when booked online.
Ms Tay said it is offered so passengers do not have to chalk up expensive miles.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Budget carrier Tiger Airways has launched a low-cost priority boarding service called boardmefirst.
Tiger Airways Singapore managing director Rosalynn Tay said this new service will complement other services like allowing passengers to pay in proportion to the weight of check-in luggage and selecting their seats.
These ancillary services have been contributing to Tiger's revenue streams.
Boardmefirst is now available on its international flights and costs S$6 per passenger per flight sector when booked online.
Ms Tay said it is offered so passengers do not have to chalk up expensive miles.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Sunday, July 4, 2010
World Cup fever at Changi Airport
World Cup fever at Changi Airport
World Cup fever has hit Changi Airport. All three terminals at the airport have seen passengers glued to the screens to catch the football action before boarding their flights.
Footballs fans can catch the matches at specially designed "mini stadiums" which have 10 TV screens each.
On average, each match attracts some 400 fans, but a few of the games have exceeded the 1,000 mark.
Since the opening match on 11 June, close to 30,000 passengers from all over the world have caught the World Cup action at Changi's transit areas and another 70,000 have watched the delayed telecasts of these matches.
The service is a winner with the international travellers as it allows them to support their teams while on the go, just like a group of German fans who caught the Germany-Argentina quarter-final match on Saturday night.
"We have been starving for information during the flight from Bali and...here...we saw the perfect game," said a German fan.
"It's a fantastic service that the airport provides," said another.
"I did not think that I will be able to to see this game. So I was very happy that I could have a chance to watch it," said a traveller from Scotland.
The FIFA Official Store at Changi has also benefited from the World Cup fever, with sales surging by 50 percent since the start of the competition.
Changi is confident that by the end of the competition, more than 100,000 passengers would have watched football at the airport.
During the 2006 World Cup, passengers were also able to catch the action at Changi Airport.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
World Cup fever has hit Changi Airport. All three terminals at the airport have seen passengers glued to the screens to catch the football action before boarding their flights.
Footballs fans can catch the matches at specially designed "mini stadiums" which have 10 TV screens each.
On average, each match attracts some 400 fans, but a few of the games have exceeded the 1,000 mark.
Since the opening match on 11 June, close to 30,000 passengers from all over the world have caught the World Cup action at Changi's transit areas and another 70,000 have watched the delayed telecasts of these matches.
The service is a winner with the international travellers as it allows them to support their teams while on the go, just like a group of German fans who caught the Germany-Argentina quarter-final match on Saturday night.
"We have been starving for information during the flight from Bali and...here...we saw the perfect game," said a German fan.
"It's a fantastic service that the airport provides," said another.
"I did not think that I will be able to to see this game. So I was very happy that I could have a chance to watch it," said a traveller from Scotland.
The FIFA Official Store at Changi has also benefited from the World Cup fever, with sales surging by 50 percent since the start of the competition.
Changi is confident that by the end of the competition, more than 100,000 passengers would have watched football at the airport.
During the 2006 World Cup, passengers were also able to catch the action at Changi Airport.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Friday, June 25, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
How Marina IR can change S'pore tourism
How Marina IR can change S'pore tourism
INTEGRATED resort Marina Bay Sands will probably take three to seven years to reach a capacity that can help spur Singapore's tourism and convention industries, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew said yesterday.
This length of time will be necessary because the resort is a very big project, he said.
Marina Bay Sands cost its owner, American casino-resort company Las Vegas Sands, US$5.5 billion (S$7.5 billion). People also have to come and see the resort for themselves and enjoy it before word of mouth can help bring in more customers, MM Lee noted.
He said: "Word has got to spread. And it can't spread at just one news conference or one display." But once it is running at full steam, it will increase the number of visitors who come here for conventions, and the amount of tourism trade, by many times, he said. By that time, it will also "transform the nightlife of Singapore", he said.
He was speaking to journalists during his first official visit to Marina Bay Sands yesterday, ahead of its opening today. He added that he wanted to visit the resort because he was interested to see "what are the bare-bone workings of it", so that he can form his own impressions of what he thought would be its chances of succeeding.
Mr Sheldon Adelson, the chairman of Las Vegas Sands, said that Mr Lee was being "a little too pessimistic". He said: "We'll be up and running at full speed by next year. A property like (Marina Bay Sands)...normally will take about a year to ramp (up)."
On the delay of Marina Bay Sands' opening, he said: "When you build a new property like this, everybody says (it'll) never open on time. But a property like this has to open in phases. We'll ramp up and do extremely well. The indications are very positive."
Originally, Marina Bay Sands was to have opened at the end of last year, but its first phase opened only on April 27. But Mr Adelson agreed that Mr Lee was right about the need for word on the development to get out so that people will get to know about it.
-News courtesy of Omy-
INTEGRATED resort Marina Bay Sands will probably take three to seven years to reach a capacity that can help spur Singapore's tourism and convention industries, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew said yesterday.
This length of time will be necessary because the resort is a very big project, he said.
Marina Bay Sands cost its owner, American casino-resort company Las Vegas Sands, US$5.5 billion (S$7.5 billion). People also have to come and see the resort for themselves and enjoy it before word of mouth can help bring in more customers, MM Lee noted.
He said: "Word has got to spread. And it can't spread at just one news conference or one display." But once it is running at full steam, it will increase the number of visitors who come here for conventions, and the amount of tourism trade, by many times, he said. By that time, it will also "transform the nightlife of Singapore", he said.
He was speaking to journalists during his first official visit to Marina Bay Sands yesterday, ahead of its opening today. He added that he wanted to visit the resort because he was interested to see "what are the bare-bone workings of it", so that he can form his own impressions of what he thought would be its chances of succeeding.
Mr Sheldon Adelson, the chairman of Las Vegas Sands, said that Mr Lee was being "a little too pessimistic". He said: "We'll be up and running at full speed by next year. A property like (Marina Bay Sands)...normally will take about a year to ramp (up)."
On the delay of Marina Bay Sands' opening, he said: "When you build a new property like this, everybody says (it'll) never open on time. But a property like this has to open in phases. We'll ramp up and do extremely well. The indications are very positive."
Originally, Marina Bay Sands was to have opened at the end of last year, but its first phase opened only on April 27. But Mr Adelson agreed that Mr Lee was right about the need for word on the development to get out so that people will get to know about it.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Lower 2nd Link tolls from Aug
Lower Second Link tolls from Aug
From Aug 1, tolls will be reduced by 30 per cent at the Second Link at Tuas, the prime ministers of Singapore and Malaysia announced yesterday.
Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Malaysia's Prime Minister Najib Razak met in Putrajaya yesterday, to follow up on bilateral issues discussed at their retreat in Singapore last month.
They had announced then that tolls would be reduced, but that the size of the cut had not been made public at the time.
Currently, tolls at the Second Link can come up to at least $9, more costly than tolls at the Causeway, which amount to about only $2.40. The cut in tolls is among a slew of measures that both countries will take to improve transport links between them.
-News courtesy of Omy-
From Aug 1, tolls will be reduced by 30 per cent at the Second Link at Tuas, the prime ministers of Singapore and Malaysia announced yesterday.
Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Malaysia's Prime Minister Najib Razak met in Putrajaya yesterday, to follow up on bilateral issues discussed at their retreat in Singapore last month.
They had announced then that tolls would be reduced, but that the size of the cut had not been made public at the time.
Currently, tolls at the Second Link can come up to at least $9, more costly than tolls at the Causeway, which amount to about only $2.40. The cut in tolls is among a slew of measures that both countries will take to improve transport links between them.
-News courtesy of Omy-
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Toll charges at 2nd Link to go down
Toll charges at Second Link to go down by 30% from Aug 1
Motorists using the Second Link got some good news from the Prime Ministers of Malaysia and Singapore on Tuesday.
Speaking at a news conference after their meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, the leaders announced that both countries will reduce their toll charges at the Second Link by 30 per cent with effect from August 1.
A hint that toll charges would be reduced substantially was made when Prime Ministers Lee Hsien Loong and Najib Razak met for their retreat in Singapore on May 24.
Another major development announced during that retreat was the land swap arrangement following the decision to relocate the Tanjong Pagar Railway station to the Woodlands train checkpoint by 1 July 2011.
In a joint statement, the leaders said they discussed the land swap issue and Singapore's offer was conveyed to Prime Minister Najib.
They had a productive meeting and discussed some initial responses.
They then agreed to study the matter further and to meet again in three months, after Hari Raya Adilfitri, to finalise the land swap decisions.
Prime Minister Najib said he will visit Singapore with the final decision.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Motorists using the Second Link got some good news from the Prime Ministers of Malaysia and Singapore on Tuesday.
Speaking at a news conference after their meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, the leaders announced that both countries will reduce their toll charges at the Second Link by 30 per cent with effect from August 1.
A hint that toll charges would be reduced substantially was made when Prime Ministers Lee Hsien Loong and Najib Razak met for their retreat in Singapore on May 24.
Another major development announced during that retreat was the land swap arrangement following the decision to relocate the Tanjong Pagar Railway station to the Woodlands train checkpoint by 1 July 2011.
In a joint statement, the leaders said they discussed the land swap issue and Singapore's offer was conveyed to Prime Minister Najib.
They had a productive meeting and discussed some initial responses.
They then agreed to study the matter further and to meet again in three months, after Hari Raya Adilfitri, to finalise the land swap decisions.
Prime Minister Najib said he will visit Singapore with the final decision.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
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