Floating Markets and River Life in the Mekong Delta
The Mekong Delta, often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam”, is a vibrant region in the south of the country where life flows in tandem with the river. A labyrinth of waterways, lush green rice paddies, and small villages make this delta an essential experience for travellers seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s culture. At the heart of this region lies one of its most enchanting features: the floating markets. Unlike conventional markets, floating markets unfold entirely on the water, where hundreds of boats gather daily to trade fresh produce, household goods, and local delicacies. These markets have been a central part of Mekong life for generations, stemming…
Thailand’s Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 Set to Make Global Splash
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, is preparing for the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 — the headline event of Thailand’s New Year celebrations and a key feature of the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025 and the Thailand Summer Festivals’ Grand Festivity campaign. Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports Mr. Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham (centre-right) and TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool (centre-left), joined by TAT executives, extend a festive invitation to celebrate the upcoming Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025 at a press conference in Bangkok. The event underscores Thailand’s growing profile as a world-class festival destination. Mr. Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham, Vice Minister of Tourism and Sports, said: “Songkran is more than a celebration…
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Brings Back Dinosaurs in Real Life
This May, Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay will transport visitors back to the prehistoric era with the launch of “Jurassic World: The Experience.” Opening on 29 May 2025, this immersive exhibition will be housed within the Cloud Forest conservatory, offering an unparalleled adventure among life-sized animatronic dinosaurs set amidst lush, ancient flora. Upon entering the Cloud Forest, guests will be greeted by a towering 8.5-metre-tall Brachiosaurus, nearly three storeys high, setting the stage for the thrilling journey ahead. The exhibition features various thematic zones designed to captivate visitors of all ages. Highlights include an up-close encounter with the formidable Tyrannosaurus rex and an interactive petting zoo area where visitors can…
Tourists and Locals Delight in the Fleeting Beauty of Tokyo’s Cherry Blossoms
Every spring, Tokyo transforms into a breathtaking sea of pink and white as cherry blossoms, or sakura, burst into bloom. This ephemeral spectacle draws tourists from around the world and captivates locals, who take part in time-honoured hanami (flower viewing) traditions. The cherry blossom season, lasting only a couple of weeks, is a much-anticipated event in Japan. The sight of delicate petals dancing in the breeze symbolises renewal and the fleeting nature of life, a sentiment deeply rooted in Japanese culture. In Tokyo, iconic spots such as Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and the Meguro River become prime locations for picnics, strolls, and photography, as visitors marvel at the beauty of…
StarCruises and Dream Cruises celebrate spectacular official launch
StarCruises, the revitalized successor of the legendary Star Cruises brand, alongside the iconic Dream Cruises brand, has officially relaunched its legacy with a grand ceremonial event aboard the Star Voyager in Singapore. This marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for both brands, which has over 30 years of history, now revitalized with a fresh and innovative vision for the future of cruising. The launch of both brands coincided with the Star Voyager’s maiden voyage under the StarCruises banner with a US$ 50 million refit of the ship, sailing out from the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC). Singapore will serve as a key homeport as well as a destination, alongside…