One of Singapore’s most anticipated hotel openings of the year has finally set a date! Raffles Sentosa Singapore has announced that it's currently taking bookings and inquiries for stays and events ahead of its Mar. 1 opening.

Over 135 years after the original Raffles opened its doors, the second Raffles in Singapore opens a new chapter for the brand, nestled within 100,000 square meters of sprawling tropical gardens perched on a hilltop and boasting views of the South China Sea.

“Raffles Sentosa Singapore will be an enchanting sanctuary, where nature, heritage, and wellness come together with the legendary traditions and world-class hospitality of the Raffles brand to create truly unforgettable experiences,” said Cavaliere Giovanni Viterale, Cluster General Manager of Raffles Sentosa Singapore and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa. “The resort will also offer the perfect setting for private retreats, family gatherings, and celebrating significant milestones.”

News on the second Raffles property was announced before the pandemic back in 2019, and was originally slated to open in 2022. The country’s first all-villa hotel is poised to be a serene, secluded sanctuary for extended stays, only fifteen minutes away from the city-state’s central business district, and twenty-five from Changi International Airport.

Designed by international studio Yabu Pushelberg, the resort’s 62 contemporary villas are all equipped with private pools & terraces, and range in size from 260 square meters for one-bedroom villas to 450 square meters for four-bedroom villas.

As wellness will be the focus of the resort, guests can enjoy the Raffles Sentosa Spa and their wide range of well-being experiences in its thirteen treatment rooms. Other highlights include the stunning Raffles Ballroom which can seat up to 400 guests, the Garden Room & Terrace, and five restaurants and lounges that offer flavors from Italian, Cantonese, and Japanese cuisines. The property’s signature dining spots include the Italian Empire Grill, Royal China, and the Japanese omakase, Hashida.

Raffles’ iconic experiences such as the Raffles Butlers service and Raffles Afternoon Tea will also be available at the resort, along with Sentosa Sling cocktail which will debut as part of Raffles' legendary welcome.

For inquiries, visit their website. You can also follow Raffles Hotels on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates.

Are you into decorating or collecting ephemera from countries you’ve been to? Look no further, because WHSmith is holding a free stamp rally at their branches at Changi Airport Terminals 3 and 4.

Wait, what’s a “Stamp Rally”?

A stamp rally is an event that’s dedicated to collecting stamps that follow a theme at different sites. These can be found in train stations, rest areas, tourist attractions, museums, shopping malls, and other places.

Stamp rallies first started in Japan, where these courses are organized by chain stores, railroad companies, travel agencies, or even local tourist associations. Stamp rallies are commonly found around train stations, and anyone can join in!

Stamp rallies are all the rage for journaling enthusiasts and hobbyists everywhere. Some would even make it a point to bring an empty notebook whenever they go to Japan and allot some part of their day to finding stamps.

It’s also a way to get to know another culture!

Free Stamp Rally at WHSmith at Changi Airport

WHSmith is a retailer specializing in stationery, books, gifts, and digital gadgets. Their stores are usually found at railway stations, airports, hospitals, and service station shops. WHSmith is found at every Changi Airport Terminal, but the stamp rally will only be available at their Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 outlets.

The stamp design at WHSmith Terminal 3 features a Chili Crab and honors the sweet and spicy Singaporean fave. The stamp at WHSmith Terminal 4 features the iconic Changi Airport Control Tower, complete with the Jewel and a little plane departing.

Make the most out of your layovers at Changi Airport with the free stamp rally! Don’t forget to bring your notebooks, postcards, or even your old boarding passes for a unique souvenir.

Find out more interesting events and promotions at the Changi Airport through their Facebook, Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), and TikTok pages!

Location: WHSmith, Terminal 3 Transit, Level 2, Changi Airport | Terminal 4 Transit, Level 2, Changi Airport

Opening Hours: 6 AM to 1 AM (Daily) (T3 Transit), 6 AM to 12 MN (Daily) (T4 Transit)

Heads up, travelers! A new flight route to Singapore has just been announced, connecting it directly to Mangalore, India!

The city-state is set to become the first Southeast Asian destination linked directly to Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) via Air India Express (AIE). This new expansion marks a significant milestone for MIA, which has catered to flights to destinations in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. The new route underscores India’s Act East policy, which aims to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations.

Member of Parliament Captain Brijesh Chowta announced on X (Formerly Twitter) the exciting new route, alongside two other domestic flights connecting MIA to Pune and Delhi. AIE will be serving MIA to Singapore’s Changi Airport flights twice weekly from Jan. 21, 2025.

“There have been multiple requests for better direct air connectivity between Mlore & Changi - highlighting which, I had also written to the Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, to enable the same,” wrote Captain Brijesh. “In this direction, the new flights between Mlore & Changi, bring good news & should encourage more providers to offer the same.”

The Member of Parliament also encouraged Mangaloreans based in Singapore to think of coming #BackToOoru — an initiative that urges Mangaloreans to return home and invest in their district.

Located between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the port city of Mangalore, or Mangaluru, is known for its coconut palms, beautiful beaches, and stunning temple architecture. Meanwhile, Singapore is a cultural melting pot known as Southeast Asia’s capital filled with world-class facilities, unique attractions, and delicious cuisine. Discover and explore these fantastic destinations by booking a flight here.

Follow Air India Express on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates.

Minions, are you ready to take over the world?

Universal Studios Singapore will soon have a space solely for the beloved Minions from the “Despicable Me” franchise next year.

Resorts World Sentosa (RSW) announced that the theme park will open the Illumination’s Minion Land — a three-part adventure immersing fans and theme park-goers into the world of "Despicable Me” and “Minions” — on Feb. 14, 2025. These experiences include a themed dining spot, a minion marketplace, previously announced rides, exclusive merchandise, and more.

The highly anticipated themed space is a partnership between Universal Creative, Illumination, and Resorts World Sentosa.

Excited to know what’s in store for you and your fellow Minion lovers? Here’s what to expect:

Minion Marketplace

So, what’s a visit to a theme park without getting the merch you want? Minion Land will be offering two limited edition Universal Studios Singapore-exclusive Super Silly Space Killer figurines available at the Minion Marketplace.

These figurines will be launched in a premium vinyl collectible in iridescent finish (limited to 100 pieces), and a full-colored vinyl figure (limited to 1,000 pieces).

Apart from the figurines, the Super Silly Fun Land Collection will have 15 items, from themed T-shirts, homewares and souvenirs. Some designs include elements from the theme park itself.

Super Hungry Food Stand

Inspired by the waterfront snack stand in the film, this boardwalk eatery will charm every fan and theme park goer dining in it. The restaurant will feature culinary creations like a Japanese Curry Chicken Karaage Rice with crispy chicken karaage and poached vegetables, and a Vegan Burger featuring a crunchy mushroom patty with guacamole.

Minion-Shaped Mantou served with Singapore chili crab sauce are also available for those that want to try something more local, and chicken fingers with sweet potato balls are available for the kids.

Of course, what’s a “Despicable Me”-themed park without sweet treats inspired by Agnes’ Fluffy Unicorn plushie or a Tim Bear Mousse Cake, right?

Minute of Minion Mayhem Show

The minions and Gru’s three daughters — Margo, Edith, and Agnes — will take over the streets in an all-new show, the “Minute of Minion Mayhem”!

You’ll get to see these beloved characters bust a dance move and play around with fart guns throughout the show, and you’d also get a chance to have a meet and greet sesh with them at the end.

Who knows, maybe you’d even see them, and Gru and Lucy, around Minion Land?

“Despicable Me”-themed rides!

First up, is Gru’s Neighborhood. Welcome to Gru, Lucy, and the girls’ home! Here, you’ll get to experience the Minion Mayhem, an unpredictable ride through Gru’s supervillain laboratory, and maybe even become one of the Minions!

Second, the Buggie Boogie, the first-ever Minion dance party-themed carousel only at Universal Studios Singapore. Guests can come on board their choice of any silly creature and boogie to some popular songs remixed by DJ Carl.

Third, the Silly Swirly. You can come and ride on any one of the uniquely styled vehicles and spin and soar around the sky while seeing the views of the Super Silly Fun Land and the lagoon.

The Minion Land first started construction during the second quarter of 2022, taking the place of the Madagascar zone.

Bello! Grab your bananas, fellow minions! See you at Minion Land next year?

For more information and all the latest park updates, follow Universal Studios Singapore on Instagram. You can also follow Resorts World Sentosa on their Facebook and Instagram pages for more fun experiences.

If you need a guide on how to get around Universal Studios Singapore, here’s The Beat Asia’s Ultimate Park Guide for your reference!

Location: Universal Studios Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway Sentosa Island Singapore 098269

Opening Hours: 10 AM – 8/9 PM

Grab your tickets here!

As the song goes, “under one sun, the land and the sea,” the Disney Adventure is a place where magic sets sail and the wonders of the Disney universe come alive!

Are you ready to embark on a new adventure? We’re here to tell you everything we know so far about this exciting new voyage sailing from Singapore next year!

Sail Dates & Bookings

The Disney Adventure will set sail from its port on Dec.15, 2025. The cruise will be sailing three to five-night voyages designed with only days at sea, immersing guests in experiences that bring to life the fantastical worlds and iconic characters at the heart of Disney, Pixar, and Marvel.

Bookings are now open for sail dates through March 2026. You can do so directly from the Disney Cruise Line website, Disney Cruise Line contact center, or through their preferred travel agents.

The 3-night inaugural voyage cruise starts at SG$2,099 for two guests in the Inside Stateroom category. 4-night voyages start from SG$1,766, while 5-night voyages start from SG$3,609. Itineraries from January 2026 sail dates can already be viewed here.

Accommodations

The Disney Adventure is setting the bar high for cruises with its staterooms that highlight a blend of family-friendly convenience and special Disney touches. Much like staying at a Disneyland Hotel, each stateroom is equipped with thoughtful amenities that provide each guest with a comfortable retreat after their exciting days at sea. At this magnificent ship, guests can enjoy rooms designed with artworks inspired by stories in the Disney, Pixar, and Marvel universes!

Whether you’re looking for a simple stay with your loved one or to go all out with luxury and personalized services, here are the accommodation options on the Disney Adventure:

• Inside Stateroom – Ideal for families or adventurous friends traveling together, this room type can sleep up to four guests. There are also deluxe options that include views of the enchanting Disney Discover Reef area.
• Oceanview - Enjoy passing ocean vistas in this stateroom that sleeps up to four guests and offers Deluxe options with comfier quarters and more square footage than a regular stateroom.
• Verandah – Boasting views of the ocean, the Disney Discover Reef, and Imagination Garden from your own private balcony, this stateroom offers four single beds or a more spacious room with a queen bed and a sofa bed. Most of the verandah staterooms also have the signature “split bathroom” and amenities.
• Concierge Suites – For those looking for luxurious accommodations, this type offers a selection of staterooms with views of Wayfinder Bay, an extra bedroom, and a private balcony. Guests staying in Concierge suites also get access to personalized services, benefits, and exclusive spaces including private retreats, luxury shopping, and first-class spa and fitness facilities.

Try Everything: Attractions and Recreations

On the Disney Adventure, magic comes alive through seven uniquely themed areas, each offering a wide range of attractions and experiences. It also boasts many “firsts” for the fleet including the first-ever roller coaster aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship!

Let’s explore the zones, shall we?

Town Square

Step into a celebration of Disney Royals with beloved Princess classics such as “Tangled,” “Cinderella,” and “Frozen” in this fantastical area offering lavishly themed dining, quaint cafés and lounges, imaginative salons, and marvelous shops.

This area serves as the main entertainment hub of the fleet and is where you’ll find the iconic Walt Disney Theatre—the venue for their Broadway-style shows. It’s also home to the Spellbound lounge, which is inspired by the Evil Queen from Disney Animation’s first-ever feature film, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

Disney Imagination Garden

Located at the heart of the ship lies this wonderland brimming with the magic of Disney storytelling. As all stories begin with a spark of imagination, guests start their journey here with a festive Let’s Set Sail dance party.

This is also the place to catch some of your favorite Disney characters, enjoy amazing stage performances like “Avengers Assemble!” and feast on delightful Indian and Pacific cuisines at Gramma Tala’s Kitchen and Mowgli’s Eatery.

Toy Story Place

Dive into an aquatic playground of fun with Woody, Buzz, and all your toy pals. This lively area spans the center of the upper decks and features the splashing good fun Sunnyside Family Pool, Woody and Jessie’s Wild Slides, the Flying Saucer Splash Zone, the Toy Story Splash Pad, and whirlpool spas.

What’s more, you can watch Disney films on two gigantic screens on deck while lounging by the pool. If you’re looking for some munchies to keep your energy up, the Pizza Planet serves up some pretty fantastic bites, and Wheezy’s Freezies has soft-serve ice cream to cool you down.

San Fransokyo Street

This lively zone blends the vibrant energy of Tokyo and laid-back charm of San Francisco. Inspired by “Big Hero 6,” this street is the home of urban-themed youth clubs, Edge and Vibe, as well as a trolley shop, shopping area, cable car lounge, and Baymax Cinemas where you can catch classic and newly released Disney movies.

This area also highlights Big Hero Arcade, a unique gaming lounge with video games and immersive, high-tech experiences.

Marvel Landing

Avengers, assemble! This adventure zone on the high seas is found on the ship’s upper deck and is the destination for superheroes to test their courage on three new attractions: Groot Galaxy Spin, Pym Quantum Racers, and Ironcycle Test Run—the first roller coaster on the Disney Cruise Line. Not only that, it’s also the longest at sea—spanning over 820 feet. That’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!

Wayfinder Bay

Inspired by “Moana,” this lounge deck is the perfect relaxing retreat featuring a pool area with a massive screen that doubles as a stage for interactive events and live shows such as “Moana: Call of the Sea.” You can also enjoy a refreshing beverage at the Wayfinder Bar and unwind in the sparkling wading pool.

Disney Discovery Reef

Get lost somewhere beyond the sea in this enchanting open area inspired by Disney’s underwater tales such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Lilo and Stitch.” This zone is a coastal paradise filled with bars and upscale dining that will satisfy your cravings.

Savor tasty offerings at Cosmic Kebabs, sip on delicious bubble tea at Bewitching Boba and Brews or relax with a cup of coffee at Palo Café.

There’s also a breezy sports bar called Taverna Portorosso, which is inspired by the Italian village featured in Pixar’s “Luca.” For dining options, treat yourself at Palo Trattoria and Mike and Sulley’s Flavors of Asia. All of this is set amid dazzling coral reefs and glass canopies which turn into a bioluminescent paradise by night.

Be Our Guest: Dining Experiences

Disney Adventure invites everyone to be their guest and through a unique dining experience that will give you some of the most wonderful memories. We’ve breezed through some of the restaurants and bars you can find within the themed areas, but here are the highlighted dining spots aboard the fleet.

Hollywood Spotlight Club

A Disney cruise experience wouldn’t be complete without Character Meet & Greets and what better setting than to do it over a fantastic feast?

Immerse yourself in the glitz and glam of Hollywood’s Golden Age at this star-studded dinner club where you’ll be dazzled by live appearances of Mickey Mouse and the rest of the Disney VIPs dressed to the nines!

Navigator’s Club

This club continues the prestigious maritime tradition of dining at the “Captain’s Table.” Located near Town Square, this enchanting restaurant is festooned with vintage maps, charts, and artworks amid an art deco design. This club also offers Character Meet & Greets and musical performances.

Animator’s Palate

This restaurant features an innovative dinner show where you’ll witness your drawings magically come to life! Here you’ll dine against a backdrop of film strips, clapboards, and director’s chairs, as well as display cases showcasing animation boards and props from popular Disney movies.

Animator’s Table

Be captivated by a world of color and song in this gallery-inspired restaurant. Like the Animator’s Palate, this dining hotspot also features stories from some of our beloved Disney films but focuses more on the artistry as it’s inspired by the classic ink and paint studios of Disney animators. Guests can dine amid paint brushes and authentic artworks from some of the company’s iconic movies.

Enchanted Summer Restaurant

This enchanting eatery features two dining rooms inspired by “Frozen” and “Tangled.” In the Maximus Room, guests can dine under lanterns and sit amid equestrian-inspired décor—a nod to the beloved horse from the film.

Meanwhile, the Olaf Room puts you at the heart of the summer solstice in Arendelle with ice and snow décor. Both rooms offer regional and international dinner menus, as well as breakfast and lunch buffets during the day.

Pixar Market Restaurant

This vibrant and bustling market offers a casual dining experience for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and features an array of regional and international cuisine. Guests can enjoy classic favorites as well as plant-based offerings amid a setting inspired by Pixar films like “Inside Out” and “Cars.”

What’s Included in Your Stay?

We’ve shown you all the reasons why you should book your adventure on the newest Disney Cruise ship, but you might be wondering what exactly is included in your booking.

There’s so much to see and do at the Disney Adventure, and you can do them all as entertainment and activity offerings are included from Broadway-quality shows and fireworks spectaculars down to the character experiences, movie screenings, and pool access. Other special activities such as magical makeovers and royal tea parties with the characters are available for an add-on price.

Guests can also expect 24-hour room service and table service dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to be included in their booking price, as well as quick service snacks and unlimited beverages on deck and at the restaurants. Adult-exclusive dining experiences, however, are not included. For more details, click here.

Follow Disney Cruise Line SG on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to discover more Disney magic and experiences on the high seas.

In search of an exciting holiday getaway with the whole family? Great news, because you can now get to catch Pikachu and the squad at Resorts World Sentosa (RWS)’s “Pokémon Aqua Adventure” — for a limited time only!

From today until Jan. 1, 2025, Pokémon fans and water park lovers alike will be delighted with the attraction’s Pokémon-themed activities at RWS’ Adventure Cove Waterpark.

At “Pokémon Aqua Adventure,” guests can look forward to thrilling rides and water activities, where they can get to explore the wonders of marine life.

Kids and kids-at-heart will also get to meet beloved characters from the animated series, including Pikachu, Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Charmander, through a Pokémon Parade, which will be held every Saturday and Sunday from Dec. 1 to 19 and daily from Dec. 20 to 29 and Jan. 1.

There’s also a meet-and-greet session with the characters every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from Dec. 1 to 19 and daily from Dec. 20 to 29 and Jan. 1, at 11 AM and 4 PM.

For tourists, a one-day ticket for the attraction is priced at S$40 (adults) and S$32 (children from four to 12 years old). Meanwhile, Singapore residents can purchase their tickets for only S$35 (adults) and S$28 (children).

A Family Fun Combo package is also available at S$80, which comes with two one-day passes for adults and one for kids, along with two food and beverage vouchers and one retail voucher worth S$5 each.

To view more details about the “Pokémon Aqua Adventure” or to buy tickets, head over to RWS’ website. Book your tickets and catch Pikachu and the gang while they're here!