A Beginner’s Guide to Sentosa

Formerly known as Pulau Blakang Mati ("The Island After Death" in Malay) Sentosa Island is popular among native Singaporeans and tourists as Singapore’s quick island getaway.

The island’s best attractions are undoubtedly its beaches, with several man-made attractions as well. While a large number of these attractions are viewed by the general public as overpriced, Sentosa is currently in the midst of a multi-billion construction program that will bring a Universal Studios theme park to the island, among other things.

Getting There
As the island is a mere 15 minutes away from Singapore’s city centre, visitors have several options on how to get there—by walking, taking the cab, the bus, or the monorail. The cheapest by far, however, is to take the North-East MRT to Harbour Front, and from there the Sentosa Express monorail (found on the 3rd level of Vivocity). All-day tickets are priced at SGD3, which includes the price of admission to the island.

The Sights and Sounds of the Island
Take the cable car to Imbiah Lookout, home to various attractions such as the Merlion, the Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom, Sentosa 4D Magix, Tiger Sky Tower, Sentosa Luge & Skyride, Sentosa Cineblast, and Images of Singapore.
Savour local cuisine the likes of the Nonya Lobster Laksa and the Jumbo Satay at Tastes of Singapore. Other restaurants such as Barnacles Restaurant & Bar, The Cliff, the Il Lido, and the Samundar are also worth a visit.
Meanwhile, those who require a spot of relaxation can visit Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach, the Spa Botanica, Rasa Sentosa Resort, and the Underwater World.
One more thing to catch before ending a day at Sentosa is Songs of the Sea, a multi-million dollar water show that features a live cast, pyrotechnics, water jets, lasers, and computer-generated imagery.


Where to Stay
While the island has a reputation for being overpriced, Sentosa has many accommodation options that will fit discerning travelers’ needs. The island currently has three spas and six hotels/resorts, one of which is the Treasure Resort, slated as one of the island’s premiere leisure and recreational destinations. The resort is the embodiment of old-world charm with a touch of modern comfort, and is ideally located at the heart of Sentosa Island.

Celebrate the 2009 Chinese Year of the Ox at The Claremont Hotel

Preparations for the Chinese New Year of Ox in 2009 begin months in advance so that the celebrations are observed in splendor and brilliance. The Chinese communities in towns or cities often hold dragon dances, parades and other festivities that are open to the public.

To prepare for the Chinese New year, The Claremont Hotel in Singapore is offering guests a Chinese New Year Holiday package. Guests can choose from Superior Single, Deluxe Double, Superior Triple, and Deluxe Family Rooms during the Chinese New Year Holidays.

Holiday rates are:

Superior single – SGD 280
Deluxe double – SGD 300
Superior triple – SGD 330
Deluxe family – SGD 370

The Chinese New Year package celebrates the Year of the Ox and the culture and diversity that Singapore has to offer. Guests planning to stay at The Claremont Hotel from January 25 to 30 for three days and two nights can avail of lower rates through early resevations. The holiday promo begins as early as October and ends on December 1 of this year.

Claremont Hotel readily provides holiday makers with the perfect accommodation type and excellent hotel services. The 90 rooms are fitted with air-conditioning, private toilet and bath, a mini-bar and other conveniences much needed by every guest. Each is designed to offer everything: from a luxurious business retreat to a cozy home. Every vacation and holiday is made special at The Claremont Hotel.

Besides top-quality accommodations, guests of the hotel can also enjoy the local cuisines and unique food culture of Singapore. The room service menu features South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese cuisines

Guests can avail of the Chinese New Year early bird promo through The Claremont Hotel’s secure and guest-friendly online reservation service which gives the flexibility of choosing rooms within a specific budget and preference. Guests of The Claremont Hotel are also guaranteed the lowest rates online.