Showing posts with label Tours and Activities - Switzerland. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tours and Activities - Switzerland. Show all posts

Sunday, February 11, 2024

SIN-ZUR-FCO-SIN: Qatar Airways Economy Class - Unveiling the Good and the Bad

ABBEY: Our airline of choice for our Switzerland-Italy trips is Qatar Airlines. We converted our miles to Avios and purchased our tickets. To our surprise, we were given additional Avios points.

As it is Economy the amenities are the basic ones but they did good with the wide array of contents on their entertainment.
However the staff service can be improved. My drinks were either incomplete or were not served at all. Food is the usual. The tray tables have drink stains.

We had our shopping s”free” in Duty Free with Avios points. We were able to bring home with us the fragrances we like. I hope they can integrate the points to all the stores at the airport. 

SIN-ZUR-FCO-SIN: Qatar Airways Economy Class - Unveiling the Good and the (more on) Bad
SIN-ZUR-FCO-SIN: Qatar Airways Economy Class
Unveiling the Good and the (more on) Bad

WILL: So, we decided to use our CitiBank miles to get Avios and book a flight with Qatar Airlines. Despite stumbling upon some negative reviews beforehand, we figured, "Hey, how bad can it be with a reputable carrier?" So, we went ahead with our plans.


1. Crew Misinterpretation

As we boarded, Abbey, had this sweet tradition of giving chocolates to the crew, and seeing their smiles always made our flights feel special. But this time, on the SIN-DOH route, it seemed like the greeting crew mistook the chocolates as exclusively meant for her!


2. Comfort and Discomfort

In terms of seating comfort, we found the seats adequate. The entertainment options, however, left much to be desired compared to what we're accustomed to with SQ. Additionally, we noticed a slight issue with the table being lopsided, the crew noticed it but didn't even gave a nudge. Huh? Really? The meal you put on my table is sliding! And it happened twice, SIN to DOH and FCO to SIN. 


3. Food Frustrations and Crew Attitude

When it came to dining, our expectations for airplane food were not exceptionally high. However, we encountered some disappointing moments. But things got a bit awkward when one crew member, clearly not having the best day, dismissively told me there was no veggie option, only to miraculously find one when Abbey inquired about it. Similarly, during another leg of our journey from Fiumicino to Doha, our request for both cola and juice resulted in only receiving the latter.


Though, the cleanliness of the lavatories were commendable.


While we made a conscious effort not to dwell on these minor inconveniences during our vacation, it's worth noting that such details can leave a lasting impression on passengers and become focal points of discussion when recounting our travel experiences to friends. Hope other's won't encounter what we experienced. 



***

Qatar Airways

(W) https://www.qatarairways.com/

Click here for cheaper flight

Ticket Cost 2-Way for 2pax: 150,000 Miles (Approximate of SGD3000+)




CHECK THIS OUT! 
Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.


KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.


Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!


Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Couple Tips for a Seamless Travels Together

We all understand the excitement that comes with traveling—it's a thrilling aspect of life. Whether it's watching your plane soar through clouds or cruising over waves in a boat, there's a sense of exhilaration, signaling the start of another adventure. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that vacations can also bring about moments of anxiety, even for couples like us. Yet, here we are, finding humor in our mishaps.

Couple Tips for a Seamless Travels Together



Traveling has the power to strengthen your marital bond. Here's how:

1. Leverage Each Other's Strengths
In our case, my wife excels in planning and capturing moments through photos, while I navigate directions and capture videos.


2. Understanding Travel Styles
Discover your partner's true attitude by understanding their travel style. Fortunately, both of us share a laid-back approach, prioritizing rest, connection with nature, and culinary exploration.

3. Active Listening and Communication
Effective communication, coupled with active listening, plays a pivotal role in travel planning and handling unexpected situations. Remember, we have two ears and one mouth—listen more than you talk.

4. Shift the Focus
Remind yourselves that it's not just about taking photos and videos but about creating meaningful experiences together and broadening your perspectives. Explore how the locals perceive life, understand their cultures, and incorporate these lessons into your own lives.

5.Appreciation and Deepening Love
Always value the time spent with your spouse. Be selfless, stay in love, and let appreciation be a constant companion.

Traveling provides an opportunity to forge a deeper connection with your spouse. Use these moments to truly know and understand each other.

Happy Journeys with your better half! Remember… your spouse will be your forever travel buddy! Isn’t fantastic?! ❤️




CHECK THIS OUT! 
Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.


KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.


Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!




Sunday, January 14, 2024

Skin Saviors: Winter Skincare for Japan & Europe

For those of us from tropical climates, the allure of snowy destinations like Japan and Switzerland comes with a skincare challenge. After an 2016’s unprepared visit to chilly Chicago 2016, we've curated our must-have products to keep your skin happy and moisturized during your winter adventures.

FOR BODY:
Nivea Body Lotion Repair and Care: A non-heavy, non-sticky lotion that works wonders in keeping your skin moisturized.

Swisse Ultraboost High Strength Vitamin C: Ensure your skin stays healthy from the inside out. This Vitamin C not only boosts your immune system but also aids in skin repair.

Skin Saviors: Winter Skincare for Japan & Europe
Skin Saviors: Winter Skincare for Japan & Europe

FOR LIPS:
Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer: Perfect to prevent chapped lips, plus it adds a shimmering touch.


FOR HAIR:
Loreal Elseve Extraordinary Oil Serum: Ideal for locking in moisture, especially when hotels don't provide conditioner, ensuring your hair looks vibrant, not dull.


FOR FACE:
Vichy Intensive Purifying Gel: Keeps your face clear and free from breakouts while washing away impurities.

Vichy Purifying Pore-Tightening Lotion: Paired with the Purifying Gel, this toner is perfect for maintaining clean pores in the cold climates of Japan and Switzerland.

Neutrogena Hydra Boost Hyaluronic Acid: The star in moisturizing your face, providing that much-needed hydration.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400: The best sunscreen for high altitudes, a must when exploring the peaks of Switzerland.

Watsons and MINISO Eye Mask: These eye masks provide a relaxing break, especially during long plane rides.


Hope these recommendations ensure your future winter wonderland travels are as enchanting for your skin as the destinations themselves.



CHECK THIS OUT! 
Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.


KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.


Oh, and speaking of dreams, let's talk OOTD (Outfit of the Day) goals. Head over to Zalora for some jaw-dropping fashion finds. Click [here] to explore and snag those Instagram-worthy outfits for your trip. A fashionable adventure awaits!

Sunday, January 7, 2024

Dreamy Destinations on a Budget: Decoding Our Schengen Visa Itinerary for Cheap and Yet Luxury Travelers alike! | Switzerland and Italy Adventure

Happy travels! Welcome, fellow travel enthusiasts! 🌍 Today, I'm thrilled to share the actual itinerary we submitted on Schengen Visa Application. We offer an exclusive peek into the intricacies of crafting the perfect itinerary. Just like you, we're passionate about exploring the world, and we've meticulously planned every detail to ensure our Switzerland and Italy adventure is nothing short of spectacular. A testament to the art of travel planning that strikes the perfect balance between luxury and budget-conscious choices.


Dreamy Destinations on a Budget Schengen Visa Itinerary for Cheap and Yet Luxury Travelers  Switzerland and Italy Adventure

As you embark on your own travel odyssey, consider securing your accommodations with the reliability and ease of Expedia. From luxury stays to budget-friendly options, Expedia offers a vast array of choices to suit every traveler's preferences. Unlock a world of convenience and comfort by booking through Expedia – your trusted companion in making unforgettable memories. Happy travels! 


𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑯𝑬𝑹𝑬 𝑼𝑺𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑬𝑿𝑷𝑬𝑫𝑰𝑨: https://expedia.com/affiliate/SuxWwtR

𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑼𝑺𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑲𝑲𝑫𝑨𝒀 (SGD 10.00 off for your first trip): https://www.kkday.com/en-sg/i/UWHMYD?cid=10106&p=link

Monday, August 14, 2023

How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore

ABBEY: As a tourist going to Europe, we need to apply for Schengen Visa. Apply it to the country where you will be staying the most on your trip. We prepared the documents and booked a schedule in VFS Global (Visa Application Center) which costs SGD32 per person. Additional SGD130 per person for the actual visa. We paid both fees with a credit card. 

Be in the center on time. We were given a queue number after security check. Put your phone in silent mode and if possible do not use it while in there. 

Dress in casual fashion. Do not wear colored contact lenses. All is going well until we were asked about one of our accommodations. It turned out that our printed document didn’t show the dates of our stay. Mani, VFS staff, is kind enough to have it mailed to him and printed it out. After document processing came the photo session and finger printing. 

A total of additional SGD8 for miscellaneous services (printing, SMS notification service) were paid and we’re given a receipt. We were able to receive messages that our docs were forwarded to the embassy as well as it is ready for pickup (after 4 days). 

Be sure to bring the receipt along with you for passport collection. The process is smooth and seamless as if you’re being given a taste of warm hospitality waiting for you in Europe. 

How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore
How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore



WILL:  Documentation... This is the part that visa applicants should be really careful. So how do we fill up our application form? You can refer to below photo as sample. 

How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore Page1
How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore 

How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore

How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore

How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore Page1

How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore

How To Fill Up Application Form For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore


The next requirement you need to furnish is the itinerary. This will be checked against your printed hotel booking confirmation. 
How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore - Travel Itinerary
How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore - Travel Itinerary



On my case, I need a sponsorship’s letter. This is the format we used. Feel free to copy it. Please do remember that one application should be furnished for each person. 
How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore - Sponsorship Letter
How To Apply For Schengen Switzerland Visa In Singapore - Sponsorship Letter


This is the link for the documents required for visa application according to travel purpose. We followed Temporary Visit for Sight-seeing For Single Entry and this is the list and we highlighted it in RED the documents that mostly of the applicants were lacking:  

Principal Visa Applicant:
1. One application form duly completed and signed.
2. Two (2) photographs no more than 6-months old, 35–40mm in width, white background.
3. Original passport or travel document valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the territory of the Schengen area
4. Provide photocopy of the passport data page
5. Previous Schengen visas within last 3 years 
6. Valid USA/UK visas if available
7. Proof of legal residence valid at least 3 months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen territory. Original plus 1 photocopy back and front of Employment Pass / Permanent Resident card and re-entry permit / Dependent Pass / Student Pass, showing validity (print-out of SG work pass app)
8. Original letter from the applicant's employer: confirming employment, duration of recruitment, status, income and upcoming leave. The original company letter (must be physically signed and stamped) must be submitted.
9. A booking for a round-trip airline ticket or printout of a flight reservation with the applicant’s name (final destination must be outside Schengen territory).
10. A travel itinerary including hotel/apartment reservations for the entire trip in the Schengen area. Train or bus tickets to be submitted for missing nights e.g. overnight train/bus.
11. Schengen travel/medical insurance with following coverage: 
       * Medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation for medical reasons, repatriation of mortal remains, for at least EUR 30’000;
       * Valid for entire Schengen area; 
       * Valid for entire duration of stay in the Schengen area.  A travel insurance explicitly excluding insurance benefits in relation with Covid-19 cannot be accepted.
12. Proof of the applicant's financial circumstances: Please submit complete detailed bank statements of the last 3 months with bank letterhead and the name of the account holder.
13. Tourist Visa Checklist
14. VFS Appointment Letter



Sponsored Visa Applicant:
1. One application form duly completed and signed.
2. Two (2) photographs no more than 6-months old, 35–40mm in width, white background.
3.Original passport or travel document valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the territory of the Schengen area
4. Provide photocopy of the passport data page
5. Previous Schengen visas within last 3 years 
6. Valid USA/UK visas if available
7. Proof of legal residence valid at least 3 months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen territory. Original plus 1 photocopy back and front of Employment Pass / Permanent Resident card and re-entry permit / Dependent Pass / Student Pass, showing validity (print-out of SG work pass app)
8. A booking for a round-trip airline ticket or printout of a flight reservation with the applicant’s name (final destination must be outside Schengen territory).
9. A travel itinerary including hotel/apartment reservations for the entire trip in the Schengen area. Train or bus tickets to be submitted for missing nights e.g. overnight train/bus.
10. Schengen travel/medical insurance with following coverage: 
       * Medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation for medical reasons, repatriation of mortal remains, for at least EUR 30’000;
       * Valid for entire Schengen area; 
       * Valid for entire duration of stay in the Schengen area.  A travel insurance explicitly excluding insurance benefits in relation with Covid-19 cannot be accepted.
11. Sponsor's Letter 
12. Sponsor's company/employment letter
13. Sponsor's passport copy
14. Sponsor's 3 months detailed bank statements
15. Original and Photocopy of Marriage Certificate 
16. Tourist Visa Checklist 
17. VFS Appointment Letter 


Please, please! Double check your documents specially the dates of hotel booking. VFS officers are keen in checking those against the intended number of nights in Schengen states. 


If you have question, you can just pm us in our facebook page! 
Happy Planning for your Europe Trip! 


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Switzerland Visa Application Center - Singapore 
(H) 9:00am to 1:30pm 
(A) 135 Cecil Street 08-01 Philippine Airlines Building, 069536 
(T) +6531051693