Monday, September 5, 2016

How To Apply For US Visit Visa In Singapore

ABBEY: This blog aims to help readers on how to apply for a US Visitor Visa (B2). Only that and nothing else. I know this is not the first blog to give this information but I felt compelled to clear things out or debunk myths about the application specially to my countrymen, the Filipinos. Since this is a process, it is standardized and it doesn't matter where you apply for visa. Be it India, Canada, Singapore or Philippines, it will all be the same.

Without further ado, here are the steps:

1. Determine what visa type are you applying.
2. Pay for US Visa application Fee.
3. Fill up DS-160 form online
4. Schedule your interview
5. Visit US embassy on your scheduled date.
6. Passport delivery
Yes, only 6 steps. But I'll explain each of them further.

My wife and I are based in Singapore. Obviously, we need to apply visa in US Embassy Singapore.

1. Determine what visa type are you applying:

This is where a lot of people gets confused and this is only the first step.Kindly ensure that you know what type of visa you need.

B-1 - Business

B-2 - Tourism, Pleasure, Visiting
B-1 / B2 - Combination of both.

We want to tour US so we chose the non-immigrant visitor visa (B-2).


2. Pay for US Visa application Fee.

We were able to pay the fee online and paid SGD 224 per person.
Make sure to have a copy of your receipt. This is needed when you visit US Embassy for your interview.

3. Fill up DS-160 form online.

Upon filling up DS-160 form, you will be asked for the fee receipt payment.
For us, our payment only got reflected the next day.

An application ID will be given to you upon the starting to fill up the form.

This is useful if you're not able to finish it or want finish it later.
Be sure to save it frequently as it is timing out when idle and all your information will be lost.

Have you passport, employment contract, history, information of your relatives (immediate family, aunt/uncle, cousins), 2x2 picture be handy as information from these docs will be required.


For 2x2 picture we went to a photo shop aware of US passport photo requirements. This ensured that our photo is correct.


Be reminded to be truthful in any information that you will be submitting. These particulars will help in your case to be strong for your interview. 
Fill up the form yourself as I heard many stories that is being filled up by somebody for them. Not that I'm saying that is incorrect, but it would be better if you do it yourself. Or review it before submission if somebody do it for you.

Upon submission, you will be asked to print or have the DS-160 confirmation page sent to your mail.


4. Schedule your interview

You need to register and create a login.
We scheduled our interview one week after our online application submission.
The site also gives a suggestion the earliest time for your interview (maybe for people who wants to have a schedule urgently).

Once your scheduled is confirmed, you need to print it.


Once we got the schedule, we were told to bring the following:

a. Interview Appointment/Schedule Letter
b. DS-160 Confirmation Page
c. Passport (bring ALL the passports; OLD and NEW)
d. Fee receipt
e. One receipt 2x2 photo (with white background)

5. Visit US embassy on your scheduled date.

Go to US embassy on the appointed time. Not 15 minutes early or 15 minutes late.

Upon arrival, a staff will check the documents specified in the Interview Appointment Letter.

Then the security checks began.
Empty the pockets and belt will be removed. Our phones stayed at the guard. Only the documents in a bag went with us.
It is advisable not bring big bags and other electronic gadgets.

Once inside, one staff checked our passports and then pointed us to go to a window to get a queue number. 
Then our number was called for finger printing. Next is the interview. Our interview lasted less than 5 minutes.

Again, just like in submitting online application, be truthful. It will set you free :) And you will hear these words like music to your ears "Your visa has been approved".


6. Passport delivery

The passport will be delivered 3 days after your interview.
But for us, it came after only 2 days.

That's it. I hope this will be helpful for those hopefuls out there.


Any advise from me?

1. Speak only the truth.
2. Review the info you submitted. Sometimes we tend to forget details when we get nervous.
3. Don't get nervous in the interview. The consul is just doing his/her job to filter who will go in and out of the US.
4. Give what information the consul is asking for. Get straight to the point.

MYTHS DEBUNKED
MYTH: You need to buy travel tickets before your interview. 
TRUTH: It doesn't hold any weight for them to approve your visa.

MYTH: Wear formal attire.
TRUTH: You can wear clothes you are comfortable with during the interview. 

MYTH: If you apply too early or too near on your travel date, your visa will be approved. 
TRUTH: Date doesn't matter.

MYTH: You are in too much pressure when you will see the faces of consulates.
TRUTH: They are very friendly and warm. 

MYTH: You must speak fluent in English.
TRUTH: You can ask for an interpreter.

We were ecstatic when we got the visa. Our smiles were ear to ear. Even though we knew where to go after the interview (to have breakfast), we were just disoriented as we were in cloud nine.

Now, we can plan our trip to US to visit my sister and see places of interest in "The Land of the Free".


questions during USA visitor visa interview - How to Apply For US Visit Visa
Multiple Entry Visit Visa

WILL: It is like a beautiful dream because many compared it like a nightmare. Yep! You are reading it right, many people told their horror stories and nightmares in applying for a US Visa. So why it is a dream? Because until now I am in euphoria. I am expecting the worst of the worst and the biggest fear for some people but for us it is like...flawless. 

So how we get ready to confront this? We prayed then planned for it. Supposedly, we will be leaving for USA this 2016 but due to some circumstances we delayed it. On our Maldives trip, while I am taking a shower, my inner voice dictated to me that we MUST get visa for next year. Lo and behold, when we were back here in Singapore, my sister-in-law break the news that she will not be available to go home in Manila. And that is the best sign and reason for us to pursue to visit her in Chicago. Pray for what you want then plan. That's the key. :) 

Abbey tackled above the step-by-step we have done in filing our DS-160 form, in my part, I will tell you what questions were commonly asked based on our observation inside the embassy and what questions consulates asked the people we knew who also applied for US Visa. 

Commonly asked questions during USA visitor visa interview: 

*Why are you going to the US?
*Have you been to the US before?
*Do you have relatives in the US? 
*Who is going to sponsor your visit?
*Where will you stay in the US?
*What does your relative do?
*How much your relative's salary?
*What company does your relative work?
*How long has your relative been in the US?
*Which visa is your relative is on?
*Will your spouse accompany you on your trip?
*Why isn't your spouse accompanying you?
*When do you plan to travel?
*What are you going to do in US?
*What is the purpose of your trip?
*Have you bought your tickets?
*Do you have return air tickets?
*How much is your budget from this trip?
*Have you been outside your country before?
*Is this your first time to visit US?
*What places do you want to visit?
*How long will you stay in US?
*What is the guarantee that you will come back?
*When did you last see your relative?
*When did your relative last visit your country?
*Where do you stay in this country?
*When did your relative go to US?
*What work do you do and what company?
*What is your job description?
*How much do you earn monthly?
*Did you take leave at your job?
*Who will look after your business in your absence?
*What assets/property do you have in your country?
*Who will take care of your property while you are gone?
*Do you have a credit card?
*Will you work in the US?
*Can you tell me your relative's contact details?


Maybe you are baffled why we can eavesdrop on other interviewees? The consulates are speaking through microphones and the room has a capacity of around 50 persons. Just imagine, how small the room is. Sorry for listening to others conversation. Hehe.

Below is the exact interview questions we have with the US consulate. (as we remembered) 
What will you do in US? 
Where you will stay in US? 
How long have you been in Singapore?
Is your sister PR or Citizen in US? 
How long your sister in US?
Do you have any other relatives in US?
How many years you have been in Dell? 
How many years you have been Rejoice? 
Have you been to US? 

--- Your visa has been approved!

The consul didn't required us any supporting documents to support our claims. I think I have more than 5 kilos of papers inside my bag. Whew! Anyways, we still pursue to bring all of those whenever they need some proof. 

Below are the documents we have in our hands: 
From our Ate Abigail 
Copy Birth Certificate 
Copy of her and Kuya Roy passports. 
Invitation Letter 

From our employers:
Latest 3-month payslip 
Certificate of Employment

From Us:
Latest 3-month bank transactions (Philppines / Singapore)
Latest 3-month credit card transactions
Last 3-year IRAS computation
Original Insurance Policy
Copy Deeds of Sale / Copy of Land Titles
Birth Certificate 
Marriage Certificate
Old Passports
US Visa Photo 
Printed Account Ledger of Shares (Stocks)
Printed Mutual Funds Portfolio (Singapore / Philippines)

That's it. Be prepared, emotionally, faithfully and financially (if you will declare that you will be the paying for that trip). 


Fear stroked me one day before the interview, but I pray and pray and I assure The Almighty that we really want to visit my sister-in-law and we are now ready to receive the US TOURIST VISA. :)


***
Embassy of The United States - Singapore 
27 Napier Road 
(T) 6476 9100
(W) https://singapore.usembassy.gov/index.html

Saturday, September 3, 2016

Centella Classic Facial by Spa Symphony (313@Somerset)

ABBEY: Facial spa session to me is a painful way being good looking :) Whenever we booked an appointment, I'm hoping it will be cancelled. Haha. It is just that my pain tolerance is low. That's why I wondered where did the pain go when we had one at Spa Symphony (313 Somerset). 

After laying down, cleansing cream and scrub were put on my face. Next is the steam. Then the pricking began. The staff told me that it will be painful, but to my amazement, it's not the same "ouch" level compared in the Philippines. This is good news for me. After pricking, face massage started. The cream put on me smells good and citrus. 

Then the "heavy", cold mask was applied. I slept until the mask hardened. The song on my mind after the mask was removed is "I can't feel my face when I'm with you". Haha. My face felt very light. It is as if I became teenager again. 

Thanks Spa Symphony.


Centella Classic Facial by Spa Symphony (313@Somerset) Singapore
Centella Classic Facial by Spa Symphony (313@Somerset Singapore) 
WILL: It was supposed to be facial before our Maldives vacation but Abbey is afraid that the sun may irritate his skin. Then, we opted to avail our package after sun-kissing. Spa Symphony is pretty helpful in looking for perfect schedule that will suit us. Thanks again for the assistance.

On that Friday night, I am surprised on how they do their facial. 

The room is 'snowy-cold' but they gave us bed with warmer. Whoah! Instance relaxation! The session begun when they put a cold cream on my face, wipe it off, exfoliation, then cream again, then wiping it off again. She put a cold cotton on my eyes and aim the steamer on to my face. 

After few minutes, she started to 'deep' clean my face. As usual, she didn't get too many impurities. Fanny was so amazed to know that I do not use anything on my face for past 2 years. Yep! Even cleanser or facial wash. 

After that 'cleaning', she started to massage my face. Yes! Massage! I will not forget that event. For almost half an hour, she is kneading my forehead, cheeks, chin, nose and even the eyes. Relaxation at its finest. Her fingers seems dancing on my face! Haha! 

She wiped off the cream then put a mask and again a small cold cloth just to protect my eyelashes. Fanny put on cream and shockingly put some on the eye area too, 3points-ahhh moment. After few minutes, you can feel that the cream is already hard and I felt sad because I know it will be the end of our session. 

I always wait to visit Manila just to get the cleansing facial I want to achieve and yet after my 6th year here in Singapore, I finally saw what I am looking for. Ahmm, actually it exceeds my criteria. 

Thanks to all the staff of Spa Symphony for this memorable facial/massage you have rendered to me and husband. 

This Centella Facial costs only $60 each.



***
Spa Symphony
(A) 313@somerset #B2-50/51, Singapore 238895 
(T) 6636 8878 
(W) http://www.spasymphony.com.sg/
(H) Mondays to Fridays: 11am to 9:15pm  / Weekends and Public Holidays: 10:30am to 8:30pm

Friday, September 2, 2016

Encik Tan @ Waterway Point Punggol

ABBEY: One time after buying grocery items from Fairprice (Waterway Point), we passed buy Encik Tan and saw long queue. This is the same scenario even by the day we tried to order. 

We brought home chicken leg/cutlet curry rice. Those are their special items. The gravy is spicy, creamy, and delicious. It really went well with the rice and fried chicken. However it seems that the serving for dine in is more than the take-away. Meaning, we have to come back there :) 

They also serve noodles, hot and cold drinks.

Encik Tan's Chicken Drumstick Set
Encik Tan's Chicken Drumstick Set
Encik Tan's Menu
Encik Tan's Menu
WILL: Why there is always a long queue? I glanced at the menu and surprisingly the value is reasonable. Then I told Abbey to try the food in there. 

One night, when we are running out of time for us to cook, I pulled Abbey to this restaurant and instructed him to queue while I am giving an eye on our grocery carts. Few minutes later, he is on the cashier ordering and paying our meal, it is for tapao. 

We were shocked to see that the rice is so less than to meals that was eaten at the restaurant. But when we tasted the curry sauce! OMG! Now I know why there is a lot people in line just to eat this food. The curry is spicy, thick. :) Chicken is still crunchy! My tastebuds is dancing because of the flavours. :) 

Recommendable!!! 


***
Encik Tan, Waterway Point 
83 Punggol Central #B2-03
(E) info@feisionggroup.com.sg
(W) http://enciktan.com.sg/

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Wildfire Burgers + Bar Singapore - 313@Somerset

ABBEY: We visited Wildfire Burger at 313 Somerset near Marché. 

The house is almost full. I got The Works burger; beef patty, bacon weave, onion rings, and fried egg. It also came with fries. The fries has smoky flavour which give the unique taste. What I enjoyed the most is the beef patty. It was so moist that the juices is coming out whenever I cut it into chewy bites. 

We only pay 34SGD as we have 20SGD voucher from the mall.

Wildfire Burgers Menu
Wildfire Burgers Menu
Wildfire's 'Truffle Mushroom'
Wildfire's 'Truffle Mushroom'
Wildfire Singapore  'The Works'
Wildfire's 'The Works'
WILL: We got a $20 voucher, free, when we avail the package of Symphony Spa. And just before it expires, we went to 313@Somerset to redeem it. We chose to dine at Wildfire Burger.

We didn't call for reservations and we are quite shocked that the tables were reserved. Just in luck, we got seat to take. Ahmm, should I say high seat...high chair and high table, haha! 

Abbey chose burger for me, and he picked truffled mushroom ($23). Burgers arrived and we were so happy to see the juices flowing out of the meat while we are slicing it. 

The taste is awesome! This is not your ordinary hamburger place. Aside for awesome food they got impressive people too. They will asked you how do you do for the day, is everything ok with your meal, do you enjoy your food. Yes! They care!

Thanks for a total experience people at Wildfire! Totally recommended for a date night.

***
Wildfire Burgers + Bar Singapore
(A) 313@Somerset#01-28, 313 Orchard Road 
(F) https://www.facebook.com/wildfireburgers.singapore

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Singapore Night Festival 2016

ABBEY: We went out and see what the 9th year of Singapore Night Festival has to offer. 

We got to see the stickmen dancing, playing and jumping in the facade of National Museum. They are artwork from France called Keyframes. Another show is the Wheel House (on museum's mainground). It is an acrobatic show on a big wheel. Maybe it would be better if there's a spotlight and louder sound for the performance. While the other spectators were busy where to go next I went back to where the Keyframe was installed and I was able to see Les AquamenS. They are men-in-black with upside down bowl aquarium as helmets.  Yes, an upsidedown aquarium; meaning with water and fish. 

Unfortunately, there were no more seats for the The Story Box show and the next performance will be too late. So we headed to Philatelic Museum where the songs from Shakespeare's works were played. I looked forward for The Siege: A light saber sword fight. But to my disappointment, they used the street rather than the stage. I understand the safety factor but a lot of people could have enjoyed it if they can see it better. Only the frontliners see it clearly and knew what has happened. :(


I hope this can be looked at. Setup stages with proper lightings and sounds.


Lego Wall for 10th Anniversary of Singapore Night Festival

Singapore FlashForward

WILL: 9th year!!! Congrats to Bras Basah Bugis precinct on this glamorous and widely known event in Singapore!  

For this year, it was packed by performers with different genres to offer the public. If you are a youth who loves to listen to local artists, your ideal place will be the the vacant lot in front of SMU school. 

Out of this world roving performer like Aquamen was at the grounds of National Museum. As usual there is a street party at Armenian Street. We were astounded to see that there live performance at Philatelic Museum. When I heard Cappella Martialis play their respective instruments, I would love to just sleep right there and then. 

As usual, it is a feast! It is a merrymaking! I wonder now who will be the performers next year. Can't wait for their surprises. 

Oh! Please do take note that museums are open for public for free when the Night Festival commenced. One more thing, make a contribution for wall of Lego :) 


***
Singapore Night Festival
(W)http://nightfest.sg/
(E)nhb_brasbasahbugis@nhb.gov.sg
(A) Bras Basah Bugis Precinct 

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives - De Luxe Spa Over Water Villa (5th Wedding Anniversary Celebration)

ABBEY: We landed in Male, Maldives 3PM local time. After a 25-minute speedboat ride, we reached Centara Ras Fushi resort where we were ushered at their lobby for resort orientation. A couple of minutes passed, then we were given our pair of keys, ride on to a golf cart and transported to our water villa. Our home for our stay has a jacuzzi, king-size bed, an office table, walk-in closet,  docking station for phones, tv, dvd player, ceiling fan, telephones, safety box, mini bar, toilet, and bath. I'll be listing out the resort's features.

Spa
Since we're already on the island, we booked for a 60-minute foot spa for 90USD++ each. We were led to a small villa and then they washed our feet in warm water. This is a foot spa but we laid to a spa table and a couple of minutes later I'm off to Dreamland. The massage is relaxing. I think I snored a lot. After the session, we were given dried fruit and tea.


Bars: They offer wines, cocktails, mocktails, coffee, teas, soft drinks and snacks.

Viu Bar
This is where you can see a good view of the sunset. Maybe that's why they called it a "Viu (view)" bar. It has a hole at its center which shows the blue water and fish can be seen as well; an "aquarium" direct from the sea. It also has nets and couches where you can relax while enjoying the view and your drink.

Pool Bar
As the name implies, it is the bar at the pool. How cool is that? Swim all you want or bathe in the sun and if you're thirsty then just go to the bar and order your drink of choice. The Pool Bar also extend their service to the guests at the beach.

Grivaaru bar
The first bar you'll get into as it is adjacent to the resort's lobby. The view on this bar is the jetty where the guests arrive and go. Also, they have a big screen to project sports shows.

Restaurants: Be quick to plan and get a reservation before they're gone.

Oceans Restaurant:
This is where you can have buffet for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have Western and Asian cuisines. I've prepared my body for Maldives; workout here and there. But once we arrived, all day is cheat-day. Who can resist bacon, omelette, poached eggs, Thai congee, chicken barbecue, roasted pork, croissants, chicken and tuna salads, cold cuts, cheese, grilled corn, vegetable quiche, bread and pastries and fruits? Also, the staff is always asking you to come back. If you're not quick enough to make reservations, then this is your default. Not that it's not good, but it is advisable to try the other restaurants as well.

La Brezza
I told you a tip for making reservations on another restaurant as we learned it the hard way. We were like a chance passenger when we dine for dinner at La Brezza. We only got the seats 30 minutes before closing. And the mindset is that you eat fast. Haha. It is an Italian restaurant which has a homey ambiance. The light fixture is like you are in Medieval times. 

Al Khaimah
We secured seats here at 7:30PM. We were the first guests to arrive. A low-spreading tree welcomed us at the entrance and we're ushered to our table. The ambiance is Arabic; in a tent where low tables and pillows and carpets were used. Definitely, footwear should be removed. I got a platter consist of lamb chops, chicken kebabs, grilled tomatoes and capsicum. This time, we pair it with red wine. Messi happily explained to us and suggested which wine to get. I only had a glass as he told us that the effect will be felt later and I don't want to get dizzy or tipsy going back to our villa. Also, Wilma will not be able to carry me. Haha.

Suan Bua
We had lunch at this Thai restaurant. We were given a rack of condiments but no need for that as the food is flavorful and savory. You can enjoy the view overlooking the pool and beach. I also had tiramisu and fruit salad for dessert. I watered all down with a couple of glasses of Blue Ocean mocktail.

One thing I can suggest to the management with regards to reservations: be strict with the time by giving grace period only and not the whole dinner time. If the guest reserved for 8PM, and hasn't come by 8:15PM, then it will be forfeited and be given to other guests. Or schedule the guests when will they dine on each restaurant. Yes, I understand the customers are always right, but this will give a total whole experience of the resort for each guest.

Centara Ras Fushi also offers waiting for lounge for the guests who checked out after 12PM but the flight is later that night. The room is full of comfortable couches where you can lay on and also offers coffee and tea. After checkout, guests can enjoy mocktails but any alcoholic drinks and snacks will be charged.

We enjoyed our stay. Thanks to all the staff specially Natsumi, Zoey, Zarah, Faizal, and Fahad. Had a slight misunderstanding with Lovely but got resolved eventually.


Centara's Welcoming Icon


DAY 1


DAY 2


DAY 3


DAY 4



Boardwalk to water villa
WILL: News after news that Maldives' Island will soon be submerged in waters of Indian Ocean made my husband was devastated. Abbey hit me again with a request, he wants to see the magnificent Maldives. 

Maldives is well-known for honeymooners and couples who want to have an "us" time. And for you to stay at these impressive islets that hold resorts, you will need half of your life savings to be in there. Whew! To tell you the truth, this is our most expensive getaway. For 4days/3nights stay, we withdrew S$4,630.80. Flights, speedboat, use of non-motorized water sports equipment and full board accommodation. Oh by the way, 'full board' means it includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner, wine, mocktails, beer, and cocktails. 

So what can I say with Centara Ras Fushi Resort of Maldives. Me, Wilma, a self-confessed frugal woman, chose to be in here rather than the resort that is cheaper in value. Actually, W Maldives have a inexpensive offer than this Centara but why I still went for this? Because of the reviews of bloggers. You should consider how far the island from its airport, why? You will be disturbed by the in and out of planes. You should check too if that resort is open for day-tour, if so, you should check how extensive they can roam to that island. Is there a pool? What the bloggers have been told about the customer service? How clean the room is. And a lot to consider. After two months reading reviews here and there, Abbey and I decided to go for Centara Ras Fushi. 

Let's start with De Luxe Spa Over Water Villa. Abbey and I want to have a full blast celebration of our wedding anniversary. So why not book for the high-end room. We talked to our travel agency that we want the best room, which is not in their offer letter to us, Dawn of Green Holidays Tours and Travel came back to us with the excellent deal they can get, we primarily booked the high-end room and within 30minutes she came back to me telling that this room is fully occupied on the date of our visit. The difference is the overwater netting that can also be found at Viu Bar. So, we went for the 2nd best. Huhu! 

The room, is clean and spacious. We are on 'sunrise' area, which is a good thing for me as I am ecstatic every time I see the light creeping up the darkness. Just below our water villa are corals that house different kinds of fish. After you splashed on cold waters of the ocean and pool, you can soak yourself in the hot and calm water of jacuzzi and feel the breeze of the sea. 

There are 3 restaurants in the island resort. Oceans offers a buffet from breakfast to dinner, the Suan Bua (Thai) and La Brezza (Italian). They only serve lunch and dinner and only 1 menu for the whole day. Al Khaimah has a Middle Eastern Menu and only open for dinner. So you need to schedule early for this because it is always fully-booked. Do not forget to pair your meats with wine and take note of the restaurants timing. 

For snacks you can go at Viu Bar, this is the best place to witness the sunset while sipping your favorite cocktail or mocktail or wine. At the pool bar, you can order drinks to hydrate your body while having a dip. 

So that is what we do at the resort for our stay. Sleep, eat, swim, repeat! Haha. 

Oh! On our last day, we visited their renowned massage/spa. We booked 4pm. We ate our last lunch at La Brezza, sleep at their cozy Chill Lounge then we headed to Cenvaree SPA to pamper our feet. That is the first time we were requested to lie down for just a foot massage. Heaven!! After kneading, we were lead to an open space and there are a drinks and pack of sands that were pressed down to our shoulders! Wooohooo! Relief. 

After our relaxation time, we headed to the lobby to get some drinks. After we finished the snacks, we went back to the chill lounge to wait for our speedboat. 

We bid goodbye to the ever loving people of Centara. This is a memorable experience for us. We will never forget this! Ever!!!


***
Centara Ras Fushi Resorts & Spa Maldives
(A) North Male' Atoll, Republic of Maldives 
(T) +96 0664 3880
(W) centarahotelsresorts.com
(E) crf@chr.co.th

***

Green Holidays Tours & Travel Pte Ltd 
(A) Blk 1 Tanjong Pagar #02-13/14 Tanjong Pagar Plaza
(T) 6226 5622 - Outbound | Golf | Inbound
(E) sales@greenholidays.com.sg
(W) www.greenholidays.com.sg

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

SriLankan Airlines (Singapore - Male/Maldives - Singapore)

ABBEY: SriLankan Airlines was our airline going to Maldives and back. The route was from Singapore to Colombo, Sri Lanka to Male, Maldives. 

We were able to board a couple of different aircraft model during our round trip. The staffs were all-smiles, greeting and assisting passengers as they board. The meal is good; enough to satisfy my hunger. I was even surprised that the chicken satay are still in the skewers. They have movie on board, but we have a couple of our flights where the monitor is not working. 

They have cameras below and behind the plane and on that you can watch the plane take off, and check what's below while up in the air. It was a first for me. 

One thing I keep wondering is that why they are spraying some kind of anti-bacterial or deodorizer when we landed to Sri Lanka and Maldives. It is an aerosol and I think they empty 2 cans each per aisle. What's the use of that? Good thing me and Wilma don't have asthma. 

Anyways, thanks SriLankan Airlines for flying us.


SriLankan Airlines On Board Flight Menu Blog Review

SriLankan Airlines On Board Food Blog Review
Chicken Rendang 
SriLankan Airlines On Board Food Blog Review
Plain Omelette with Mushroom Toppings
SriLankan Airlines Blog Review
Ticket
SriLankan Airlines On Board Blog Review
SriLankan Airline Wings
WILL: I am always excited to board planes that are flag carriers of different countries. From Philippine Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines.. I am ecstatic and thrilled how they are engaging with their passengers. Now, on our Maldives Anniversary Celebration we tried Sri Lankan Airline. 

We were greeted warmly by the crews of. The movies in the plane are superb, but I do not enjoy their breakfast meal (omelette) but they take pride in their Ceylon tea. 

On our flight from Colombo to Male, I fell in love with their huge plane. Of course, the seats are more comfortable and it seems new. The meal is superb. I ate it all but passed on dessert.

On our way home. From Male to Colombo my monitor was spoiled and it seems that it is a just usual thing for them. I never heard any apologies from them nor any gestures of regret for that case. Since I am sleepy, after I ate my chicken meal, I snooze immediately and forget about the monitor. 

Then, the same plane we boarded going to Singapore. We mistakenly sat at 9E & 9F. I am shocked that the window seat has no armrest (right side). Then, someone called our attention and told us that it is his place, we got up and inquired the attendants what is our real seat since our ticket indicated is 9. Upon checking, we should be at 19. Whew! Bye faulty chair. 

On row 19, Abbey is lucky to have a monitor that is defected. We immediately called the attendants attention and again, she informed us to press the power button for 20seconds. Again, we have done it for many times but to no avail. The attendant never got back to us to check if we already get what we want. For us not to wreck up our happy mood, we passed this issue again. And decided to sleep instead. 

Now, I know that not all flag carriers are same as the others. I will take note of this problem we encountered with this airline. I always remember.


***
SriLankan Airlines 
(w) http://www.srilankan.com
24 Hour Contact Center
Telephone : +94117771979
Email : feedback@srilankan.com

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

dnata Lounge (Singapore Changi Terminal 3)

ABBEY: We used our annual Priority Pass to access airport lounges for free. This time, we went to dnata Terminal 3 lounge. 

They were serving breakfast when we visited and this includes congee, croissant, brown and white bread, red bean bun, chicken siew mai, cornflakes, coffee and tea. They also have softdrinks, wine, beer, and ale. 

I indulged in their siew mai dipped in soy sauce. Wow. They also have a shower and reading rooms. On further back of the lounge, you can see the planes....


dnata Lobby
Comfortable Sofa 
Food Aisle

WILL: DNATA Lounge at Changi Terminal 3 won the Best Indepent Airport Lounge 2015 award and of course it makes me curious to check it out. 

We were greeted by an all-smile staff in their lobby. And as we enter the place we were welcomed by the food served in the middle of the area. They are serving breakfast that time and I am astounded that they have siew mai. Yes, I indulged in that food, then I tried their bread. Washed off it by tea. 

I enjoyed eating there while watching tv that plays Just For Laughs. Sofas are pretty comfy and the place itself is quiet and on that, you can have your own peace before your flight. Ooh! You can take a shower in there too! 

Thanks DNATA for accommodating and filling our tummy for few hours before our flight.



***
Dnata Lounge
(A) Level 3 Transit, Terminal 3, Singapore Changi Airport, 65 Airport Blvd
(H) 24 hours

Monday, August 15, 2016

FREE 4-Day Singapore & Indonesia Itinerary



Hello Everybody!

You want to go to Singapore and decided to also have a side trip in Batam, Indonesia but do not know where to start the planning? Fret not guys. Our team who produced the eBook titled "The Ultimate Singapore Traveller's Freebie Guide" decided to do something just for the readers of this site. :)

We created a FREE 4-Day Singapore/Indonesia Itinerary just for your.

So what you will get?

** Detailed plan for 4 days

** How much will be the approximate costs of your travel

** The PDF file is not an itinerary.. it is a planner.


Go ahead! Download it. We are assuring you that there is no strings attached on this. We do not even want your email addresses(we do not want to spam emails). All we want from you is to share this site page to your friends who have plans in exploring Singapore too.

Thank you guys and have a great day! 


4-Day Singapore & Indonesia Itinerary


Thursday, August 11, 2016

Jason Bourne (2016)

ABBEY: I liked Jason Bourne movies. 

I don't know if there exist a human who have such kind of talent who know who are the enemies in his environment. But that makes him unique. After all those years and his skill, he was not able to decipher who he really is. Poor fellow. 

I got dizzy on the action scenes at the beginning. Wow, the cameras move fast, very fast. 

Disguises, wittiness, cleverness were used by Jason to reach the top floor and meet the villain who wants him down. You can guess how it ends. I think this will be the last. One more and it will be a drag.

Shaw Theatres Waterway Point Ticket
WILL: I am fan of Jason Bourne or should I say Matt Damon, or Jason Bourne or Matt Damon. Haha. 

So Bourne came back into the silverscreen. In this movie, he now somewhat knew about his dad and why/what joined the project. 

A total action! Worthy of my time! See you again Jason! I know you have more surprises up on your sleeves to finish this sequel.

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Tenderfresh Classic (Waterway Point)

ABBEY: Before watching the latest installment of Bourne franchise, we first fill up our belly at Tenderfresh. This restaurant is unique. Yes, you will be given a table and then menu. But you will queue up to order, pay it, wait for your pager to light up and collect it. 

For 7.50SGD I had their Lucky Set which includes 2 pieces of fried chicken, fries and coleslaw. The chicken is crunchy, hot, and moist in the inside. The fries has a good amount of serving that I enjoyed dipping in tomato ketchup. Their coleslaw is creamy which differs from other and it is good. They also have tuna, pasta and rice on their menu.

Chicken Cutlet Rice
Lucky Set 
Menu

Menu
WILL: After our seminar with Fausto Couple about behaviours about money and before our not so planned movie date, we dropped by at Tenderfresh chicken. 

This is a self-service restaurant, you order at the cashier and you pick-up the food at the counter. 

I went for chicken cutlet with special fragrant rice. And indeed, their chicken is tender. Haha. Tender on the inside, crispy on the outside. The rice! It is a good combination together with their secret dip. Yum, yum, yum! 

This restaurant is totally recommendable.



***
Tenderfresh Classic (Waterway Point)
(A) 83 Punggol Central #B2-04 Waterway Point
(H) 11am - 11pm

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

THREE by Table Concepts @ Seletar Mall

ABBEY: I'm trying to look where can I date my baby when I come across Three by Table Concepts at Seletar Mall. As the name implies, there are three cuisines: Japanese, French and Thai. 

I ordered their chef-recommended Thai Basil Pork Rice; a rice entry with minced pork in sweet thick soy sauce, chopped red chillis, and basil. It was a delight and delicious. 

I can eat this whole day. Minced pork in sauce with newly cooked white rice is the treat. Next time, we'll try the French and Japanese cuisines.

Basil Pork Rice

Chicken Curry Rice

Thai Menu




WILL: Abbey asked where we'll dine after my dentist visit at Q&M.. My answer is so simple "surprise me". Then he guided me to Three by Table Concepts. 

It is a restaurant composed of 2 diners in it. The cuisines you can choose from are French, Japanese and Thai. We went for Thai. I am bit hesitant to go for Chicken Curry Rice, but I still ordered it.

Wow. The taste is magnificent. It even beats my top 1 Green Chicken Curry. Haha. It is sweet, spicy and a little bit salty. Hayy! This is the main reason why I cannot hit again my target weight. Hehe. 

For those of you who happens to visit Sengkang, try this restaurant. Too many choices to choose from. :)


***
THREE by Table Concepts @ Seletar Mall
(A) 33 Sengkang West Avenue #03-37
(H) 11am - 10pm

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Mushroom, Cherry Tomato and Basil Bruschetta Easy Recipe

1/2 baguette - sliced (12 pieces)
5 cloves garlic (2 for sauteing and 3 for bread)
Extra-virgin olive oil
30 cherry tomatoes, halved
20 fresh basil leaves
10 medium size shitake mushroom - sliced

Saute the sliced mushrooms, garlic tomatoes and before turning off the heat put in the fresh basil leaves. 

Place bread slices on the pan. Heat bread on each side. Rub garlic onto the bread.

Serve both hot. 



ABBEY: We first had this appetizer when we celebrated 2016 Hearts' Day at Pizzeria Mozza (Marina Bay Sands). Again, we made our own version or should I say Wilma. She topped slices of baguette with sautéed cherry tomatoes, basil, and mushroom. Every bite is flavorful and sumptuous. I think this can be partnered with mushroom or chicken soup. Thanks Baby Wilma.