Meet the Neighbours: Asiatown Houston

Think of Asian enclaves in America, and the Chinatowns of New York and San Francisco might come to mind. But that would be doing Houston a disservice. It might surprise you to know that the biggest city in Texas is also one of America’s most ethnically diverse. And its Asiatown is duly expansive – stretching some 15km2 around Bellaire Boulevard in Southwest Houston, and home to hundreds of Asian supermarkets, restaurants, teahouses, temples, salons, travel agencies, auto repair shops and more. 

This present-day neighbourhood took off in the early 2000s as Asian immigrants were slowly priced out of Downtown, where the original Chinatown had formed in the 70s. At the time, many of the businesses on Bellaire were budget-friendly mom-and-pop Chinese and Vietnamese markets and restaurants – like the cavernous Hong Kong City Mall and Kim Son buffet and dim sum parlor. But today, you’ll also find modern Asian restaurants along with those offering Taiwanese, Korean, Thai and Filipino fare. 

Here we meet some of Asiatown’s newest entrepreneurs, as well as a few diehards – and get their top restaurant recommendations, of course.

Asiatown’s Hong Kong City Mall. Photo: Johnny Luu

Mike Tran

Chef-owner, Mein, Tiger Den, Toukei Izakaya, Ohn Korean Eatery, Ishin Udon, BLKDog Coffee

Recent years have witnessed a boom of modern, second-generation restaurants in Asiatown. Leading the movement is Mike Tran, a Cambodian-Chinese immigrant and chef who owns several businesses including Mein, a modern Cantonese restaurant, and Tiger Den, a Japanese ramen shop. Having lived in the area for nearly three decades, Tran has witnessed its dynamic growth firsthand. 

Mike Tran. Photo: Johnny Luu

Ramen at Tiger Den. Photo: Mike Tran

“As an immigrant, I found myself in Asiatown since an early age, looking for what I grew up with,” Tran says. “I’ve been a local for over 29 years and I’ve seen the area go from its humble beginnings to a more stylish, vibrant area, while still maintaining its honest, hard-working values.” 

I’ve seen the area go from its humble beginnings to a more stylish, vibrant area, while still maintaining its honest, hard-working values

Tran’s flagship restaurant, Mein, is a critical darling among Houston foodies. It’s known for its inventive take on Cantonese food – inspired by Tran’s own diverse heritage –  and decor that pays homage to Shanghai’s golden age. Located on Corporate Drive, the restaurant shares a strip mall with several of the other businesses within Tran’s pan-Asian empire including Ohn Korean Eatery; a Korean soju bar and gastropub; Toukei, a modern izakaya; Ishin, a udon bar; and BLKDog Coffee, a cute café. 

“There are some great grocery stores in the area,” Tran says, nodding to the likes of Viet Hoa International Foods, Welcome Food Center, and H Mart. “It’s hard for me to pick a favourite because they all excel at different things, whether it’s vegetables, hard-to-find herbs and spices or specialty cuts of meat and seafood.” 

Grace and Leo Xia

Co-owners, Hongdae 33 and Duck ‘N Bao

For many entrepreneurs, setting up shop in Asiatown was a way to connect to their roots. Grace Xia, Beijing-born owner of the new Korean BBQ hotspot Hongdae 33 and Peking duck specialist Duck ‘N Bao, shares that she and her husband and business partner Leo Xia, who is from Chengdu, frequently visited the area for a taste of home. 

Grace and Leo Xia. Photo: Jenn Duncan

The interior of Hongdae 33. Photo: Jenn Duncan

“Whenever we miss our hometown, we’d head to Asiatown to find these familiar flavours that help heal our homesickness,” Xia explains. “Asiatown includes a mall, supermarkets, shopping centers, restaurants, milk tea shops and bakeries, so people can come to one center to get everything they want at the same time.”  

She adds that the couple’s go-to restaurant is Ma Lu Bian in Diho Square, which offers bian, the beloved skewer-style hot pot dish: “Bian is a trendy skewer hot pot restaurant that has recently attained cult-level popularity. It is from my husband’s hometown of Chengdu, and he has had it since he was a little kid.” 

Hongdae 33’s Korean BBQ spread. Photo: Jenn Duncan

John Nguyen

Owner, Cajun Kitchen 

Beyond traditional foods, Houston’s Asiatown is known as the birthplace of the now world-renowned Viet-Cajun cuisine – a modern hybrid style created by Vietnamese refugees in the Gulf Coast. This fusion cooking style applies the ethos of Southeast Asian seafood boils to local crawfish. Though crawfish comes from Louisiana, it was in Houston that it extended its reach into the mainstream.

John Nguyen. Photo: Johnny Luu

Kitchen Special Crawfish Boil at Cajun Kitchen. Photo: Cajun Kitchen

John Nguyen, owner of the beloved Cajun Kitchen on Wilcrest, has been one of the driving forces behind the booming popularity of the cuisine. Originally from Norway, Nguyen grew up eating Viet-Cajun crawfish at home due to the fact that many of his mother’s relatives lived in Louisiana. In 2013, seeking a break from his corporate job, he took over Cajun Kitchen from its original owners, who first opened the restaurant in 2005. 

“The Viet-Cajun trend has just exploded on the national food scene. From being concentrated in Houston’s Asiatown, it has now spread all over Houston, Texas and many other cities and states that are not even that close to Louisiana,” Nguyen notes. “It is just amazing how this one seafood dish has been so widely embraced everywhere. Heck, even McCormicks has created their own Viet-Cajun spice blend for the masses.” 

Beyond Viet-Cajun, Nguyen says he frequents many other businesses in the area for traditional Asian food. “If I’m craving something fast, like a banh mi, my go-to spots are Thim Hing, Don’s Cafe or Alpha Bakery,” he says. “If you’re looking for Vietnamese snacks and desserts like sticky rice, che or less known things like banh beo, banh duc, and banh gio, check out Duc Phuong. It’s a super popular place that makes everything fresh daily and in limited amounts.” 

Orasinee Ratanaporn

Owner, Thai Spice Express and Zapvor by Thai Spice 

Originally from Thailand, Orasinee Ratanaporn became one of the pioneers of the Asiatown neighbourhood when she opened back in 1983 (known as Thai Spice Express since 1996). Today, she primarily oversees her latest restaurant, Zapvor by Thai Spice, in the nearby suburb Sugar Land, but she considers herself a tried-and-true Asiatown local. 

“I’m still an Asiatown person – I’m here every day to eat, and to go to my bank,” she says. “I love that I can find every kind of Asian food here, and they’re opening many more restaurants. It’s still very exciting every time I walk around and find something new.” 

Orasinee Ratanaporn. Photo: Johnny Luu

Thai Spice Express. Photo: Johnny Luu

Ratanaporn’s list of favourite restaurants is long, but her standouts include Banana Leaf for Malaysian food, Spicy Hunan for Chinese food and her all-time favourite Confucius Seafood Restaurant. “If you first order two entrees, you can order a lobster special for something like $40,” she advises. “It’s a great value and you can have the lobsters cooked to your liking.” She also shouts out to the diverse eats at Dun Huang Plaza, a sprawling bi-level strip mall. 

As for plans to return to Asiatown, Ratanaporn says she has some ideas for the near future. “Depending on the lease, I’m thinking of going back to Thai Spice Express this year – we still have our diehard customers, but we are hoping to modernise since the neighbourhood is attracting so many new, young people who are interested in Asian food.” 

For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Houston, click here.

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SugarSand

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More than just a hidden gem on Seminyak’s vibrant beachfront, SugarSand is also a haven for culinary delights and relaxation. Nestled within the luxurious Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, this trendy restaurant exhibits a blend of Indonesian and Japanese designs and intricate details inspired by traditional Balinese boats. The first level is distinguished by an expansive infinity pool while the second-floor lounge offers panoramic ocean views. Holding court in the kitchen is Chef Syamsul Rizal, who brings a wealth of experience from renowned establishments like Nobu and Zuma. The menu highlights modern Japanese dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy innovative cocktails created by head mixologist Dewa Ari.

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Conservation in the concrete jungle: Walking on Dubais wild side

Think of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and glitzy malls, Michelin-starred restaurants and seven-star hotels usually come to mind. But this year, which the UAE has declared the Year of Sustainability, nature conservation is front of mind for the region.

Initiatives such as the National Day Mangrove Project, back in May, saw all seven Emirates commencing a mangrove-planting drive to strengthen the land’s “green lungs”, while the SeaWorld Research and Rescue – the region’s first dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return facility – just opened its doors in late May. Meanwhile, Dubai prepares to host the UN Climate Change Conference in November.

That’s not all – turtle conservation and mangrove centres in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah make it possible for travellers to connect with nature, even in the middle of the UAE’s glittering concrete jungles, and all with a five-star Emirati flair. 

Guest turtles at Dubai’s luxury hotels

Two turtles swim leisurely in the lagoons of the Jumeirah al Naseem, the beachfront hotel adjacent to iconic luxury hotel Burj al Arab. In this sprawling property, marine turtles too are residents. 

This is the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation project of the Jumeirah Group of hotels, which rescues and rehabilitates turtles in trouble – some of which are critically endangered. Marine turtles face several threats in the Gulf, not only due to run-ins with boats and fishing nets, but also from ingesting marine plastics and abnormal barnacle growth. 

Barbara Lang-Lenton with turtle. Photo: Barbara Lang-Lenton

“We feed and tend to them, stitch back the carapaces that have been damaged by boat collisions and eventually, when they are fully fit, release them into the sea,” explains Barbara Lang-Lenton, director of the Jumeirah Group-funded project. “What we do here has a global impact because sea turtles are migratory species. After they’re released at Jumeirah al Naseem, they go on and travel the world and do what they need to do.” 

It’s crazy to think that there are more guests in the Jumeirah hotels at the moment than there are hawksbills in the wild

The lagoon has several recovering individuals destined for such a globetrotting life, as well as three permanent residents – Chewbacca, named because of many blistering barnacles on its carapace; Humpty, whose carapace is humped because of an old injury; and Dumpty, the friendliest of the three. Unfit to return to the sea, these three live the high life in Jumeirah. Everyday at 11am, visitors help feed them salad and fish while listening to Lang-Lenton share about the project.

Interacting with the rescued turtles and watching them be released into the sea has a profound impact on visitors, Lang-Lenton shares. “It’s crazy to think that there are more guests in the Jumeirah hotels at the moment than there are hawksbills in the wild,” she recalls one of them saying. 

Releasing a turtle back into the wild. Photo: Christophe Chellapermal

Sun, sand and Sharjah’s mangroves

For those planning to venture beyond Dubai, the Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre in Sharjah is a two-hour drive east from downtown, on the opposite coast (Dubai taxis and the rideshare app Careem offer competitive rates). This mangrove park is part of the Khor Kalba Conservation Reserve, which also encompasses the Khor Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, home to falcons, the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre, ideal for scenic hikes; and the Al Hafiya Picnic Park. The reserve only began welcoming guests once more in 2021, after being closed to the public for 10 years. Its lush ecosystem is home to diverse wildlife, including white-collared kingfishers and the majestic oryx – large antelopes with long, spear-like horns.  

The sounds of traffic and construction, so ubiquitous in the UAE, fade as you enter the mangrove forest. A raised boardwalk offers intimate glimpses inside the mangroves and the plethora of unusual creatures they provide habitat for – mangrove crabs, sea cucumbers, starfish as well as snapping shrimp, tiny creatures whose oversized claws create shockwaves that sound like fireworks. We linger in the shade of the mangroves, mesmerised by the salt crystallising on the swirls of sand and sightings of mudskippers that dart around the sandy forest floor.  

Mangroves, or qurm in Arabic, make up almost 96 miles of the UAE’s coastline. Of the UAE’s 13 key mangrove sites, Khor Kalba is also a designated Ramsar site, a wetland recognised for its international importance. This boardwalk through these 300-year-old salt-encrusted mangroves, is but one way to experience these vital “green lungs” of the city – visitors may also kayak or paddle-board along the exterior of the mangrove forests through organised tours. 

Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre. Photo: Shutterstock

Golden hour in Abu Dhabi’s Jubail Mangrove Park 

As the golden hour approaches, we head to Abu Dhabi’s Jubail Mangrove Park. A striking distance from the far more famous Louvre Abu Dhabi, the dense forest stretches for miles on end, and seems like another world altogether. A boardwalk over a mile long takes us deep into the forest, where pristine waters glitter and fresh shoots poke out from the sand.

This is a hopeful sign as mangroves are not easily restored once they deteriorate. Without their roots to anchor the soil, the tides quickly erode the land and reshape the coastline, making it difficult, if not impossible for them to regenerate. In winter and spring, there are regular planting drives where visitors can plant mangrove seedlings, to extend the forest cover as much as possible. 

Jubail Mangrove Park. Photo: Jubail Island

These ecosystems offer a host of benefits to Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a whole, including carbon sequestration, coastal protection, biodiversity support and water quality improvement. All this goes a long way towards contributing to the overall health of the environment and UAE coastline. 

“UAE’s mangroves are that much more interesting because you don’t expect to see them here,” points out Dr Percy Fernandez, passionate wildlife photographer and head of the School of Media and Communication at Manipal University. A regular birder in the UAE since 2017, Fernandez notes an uptick in the number and diversity of bird sightings here over the past five years – as well as a simultaneous increase in number of bird-watchers. 

“We’ll now see summer migrants like the Eurasian turtle dove and the blue-cheeked bee-eater, which come here to breed from May to June,” he says. According to the UAE bird checklist, the country recorded 300 species till the early 90s. Today, there are 468, of which 68% are migratory. 

Wildlife on Jubail Island. Photo: Jubail Island

Planting mangrove seedlings on Jubail Island. Photo: Jubail Island

“Much of this is thanks to the UAE’s initiatives to develop freshwater lakes and canals, and increase green cover by planting trees and conserving the mangroves,” he says. “This has not only been great for the environment, but has also given locals and visitors alike a beautiful, wild respite from the city.” 

Back on the highway to Dubai from Jubail, the lights of Abu Dhabi’s busy airport twinkle in the distance. Construction cranes, so ubiquitous across the UAE, ply back and forth, signifying the birth of yet another plush – and mangrove-facing – real estate development.

From the road, we spot kayakers heading back to the shore, their torch casting a spotlight on the still water. Then it dims and fades, and night comes gently to the lush estuary. 

To learn more about Singapore Airlines’ flight service to Dubai, visit the official website.

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Raffles City Singapore

Produced by SilverKris for Raffles City Singapore

Shop to your heart’s content at Raffles City Singapore, strategically located directly above the City Hall interchange station. Spanning across five floors and offering over 200 stores in fashion and beauty, dining and lifestyle, there’s something for everyone. Timepiece collectors may stop by at Chopard and Rolex while fashion fans should pay a visit to Kate Spade New York and COS for the latest trends. Meanwhile, the makeup and fragrance collections at Chanel, Givenchy and Acqua di Parma will satisfy avid beauty lovers and fragrance connoisseurs. If you need to rest your feet, head to the tourist lounge on Level 65 of the Swissôtel The Stamford to enjoy coffee and light bites while taking in panoramic views of Singapore. You can also take advantage of the bag drop service that allows you to jump right back into your retail therapy.

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5 of the worlds quietest places for a dose of calm

Coping with the cacophony of city living can be challenging, especially as life adjusts back to pre-pandemic rhythms. Things often aren’t any better when we’re on vacation in other cities, and travellers must go out of their way to find respite. As silence becomes an increasingly rare commodity – especially for urbanites – organisations such as Quiet Parks International and Noise Pollution Clearinghouse are stepping in to identify and preserve places of peace and quiet around the world.

Here are five places that you can find respite in when everyday construction and crowds get to be too much: 

1. Yangmingshan National Park, Taipei

The world’s first Urban Quiet Park

Acoustic appeal: Though Yangmingshan National Park isn’t entirely silent, its sounds are almost entirely natural despite it being just 10 kilometres north of Taipei. The Soundscape Association of Taiwan has worked with park authorities to preserve both the low noise levels and so-called bio-acoustics, creating designated Quiet Trails where visitors can enjoy the chorus produced by frogs, birds and cicadas (which rarely exceed 30dB, the equivalent of a low whisper). The park’s quietest spot is perhaps Menghuan Pond, whose lush landscape is as much a sight for sore eyes as it is a balm for the ears. But don’t just take our word for it: Quiet Parks International, which designates Urban Quiet Parks around the world, certified Yangmingshan as the world’s first Urban Quiet Park in 2020.

Stay at: The W Hotel Taipei in Taipei’s Xinyi District. You’ll have easy access to both the city centre and the Hushan Mountain Trail, a short walk from the hotel. 

While you’re there: Stop by Cama Coffee Roasters, a gorgeous café with a lovely Japanese-style garden a short drive south from Yangmingshan – the perfect pit stop before heading back to the city.

Yangmingshan National Park. Photo: Taiwan Tourism Board

2. Zurich, Switzerland

The quietest city in the world 

Acoustic appeal: When it comes to cities, it doesn’t get quieter than Zurich. That’s according to German company Mimi Hearing Technologies, which compiled statistics from the World Health Organisation as well as data drawn from 200,000 participants in 50 locations worldwide to find the city with the least incidence of noise pollution. Recently, new speed limits were introduced in Zurich’s centre to reduce noise levels, and noise-reducing asphalt and sound barriers can now be found throughout this city, with its mediaeval old town, forested parks and backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

Stay at: Book a room at the Dolder Grand, a five-star hilltop hotel surrounded by forests where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Swiss Alps.

While you’re there: Pair your peace with a dose of serenity at the city’s beautiful Grossmünster church, which was built in the 1200s and is famous for its stained glass and Romanesque crypt.

Zurich. Photo: Switzerland Tourism

3. Hampstead Heath, London, United Kingdom

Where peace and quiet is enforced by the police

Acoustic appeal: Hampstead Heath became Europe’s first Urban Quiet Park in 2021. This sprawling expanse lies just kilometres from London’s bustling city centre and was once Henry VIII’s hunting grounds. Thanks to the Hampstead Heath Act of 1871, which decreed that “the Board shall forever keep the Heath open, unenclosed and unbuilt on,” it’s an idyllic grazing ground that Londoners have enjoyed for centuries. Its most famous fans have included writer CS Lewis, for whom the park was inspiration for The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Covering 320 hectares of meadows, woodland, hills and ponds, it’s home to several rare species (including the iridescent jewel beetle). It’s also large enough to have its own police force, which is tasked with enforcing various noise-reducing laws, including bans on drones and motorised vehicles.

Stay at: Cosy La Gaffe Hotel, a charming family-run guesthouse mere minutes away from Hampstead Heath that’s also well connected to central London. 

While you’re there: Indulge in some quiet reflection at Kenwood House, an English Heritage property in the heart of Hampstead Heath. Head inside to admire masterpieces by big name artists the likes of Vermeer, Rembrandt and Constable.

Hampstead Heath. Photo: Quiet Parks International and Carlos Fresneda

4. Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor, Barcelona, Spain

The ultimate forest bathing destination

Acoustic appeal: Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor is best described as quiet, with a hint of animal acoustics, courtesy of the wildlife which lives in this 15,000-hectare chunk of greenery wedged between two massifs in the Catalan coastal mountain range. The trees in Spain’s first Urban Quiet Park, 30 kilometres north of Barcelona, can take some of the credit – 95 percent of the park is forested, and these vast swathes of cork oaks and stone pines muffle noise. Not convinced about trees’ sound-smothering qualities? Consider this: researchers at North Carolina State University recently placed a 30-metre-long row of 13-metre-tall trees alongside a highway. The result? Noise levels were reduced by 50 percent. 

Stay at: Barcelona’s El Palace Hotel, which features a gorgeous rooftop garden full of secret hiding spots and a solarium from which to take in a stunning view of the city. 

While you’re there: Take the time to explore Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor’s hiking trails. For something easy, we recommend the 2.1-kilometre Les Planes del Corredor circular route, which has stunning mountain views. For hardcore hikers, there’s the 9.8-kilometre Can Bosch route, lined with ancient fountains and mediaeval ruins. 

Photo: Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor and heikefreire.com

5. Olympic National Park, Washington, United States

The most silent square inch in the world 

Acoustic appeal: Olympic National Park is so quiet that sound recording specialist Gordon Hempton, who travelled around America recording noise levels, declared it to be America’s quietest place. The exact location, dubbed One Square Inch of Silence, is marked with a red stone. You’ll find it in the centre of the park, which is an easy two-hour drive from Seattle. Hempton created the One Square Inch of Silence project to raise awareness of our need for silence, and to ensure the park stays free from noise pollution. And it’s working – aeroplane pilots whom Hempton spoke to shared that they’ve made minor increments to flight routes in order to avoid flying over the One Square Inch of Silence. 

Stay at: The Olympic National Park Log Cabin Resort. You’ll avoid the crowds and have easy access to the park’s best bits.

While you’re there: Keep an eye out for the park’s Roosevelt elks. Named in honour of President Theodore Roosevelt, they are North America’s largest elk subspecies. 

Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park. Photo: Washington State Tourism

To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights to the abovementioned destinations, visit the official website.

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Busans magic works on everyone

Set along South Korea’s enchanting southeastern coast, Busan is replete with natural beauty, rich history and vibrant urban culture. Singapore Airlines is resuming its route to Busan in August, so it’s the perfect time to plan that end-of-year holiday to this charming city. We’ve got four fantastic one-day itineraries, hand-picked to suit everyone. 

Creative, cutting-edge culturalistas

Fans of the quirky and unexpected will love Gamcheon Culture Village in the south of the city – a picturesque settlement with steep rows of colourful buildings that’s been transformed into a living gallery, with surprising art installations, murals and mosaics dotted along its labyrinthine alleyways. Formerly abandoned houses have been turned into galleries, creative workshops, cafés and restaurants.

Visitors are perhaps most familiar with Korean culture through its cinema, and Busan, as a UNESCO City of Film, is just the place to learn about it. Ten minutes’ drive from Gamcheon, film fans can visit the Busan Museum of Movies. Here you can learn the history of Korean film, and even make movie scenes yourself, battling with dinosaurs or jumping into an action sequence. The Trick Eye Museum upstairs is full of fun optical illusions that use augmented and virtual reality. 

End your cultural exploration of Busan with the awe-inspiring Gwangalli M Drone Light Show. Photo: Korea Tourism Organisation

Continue chasing eye-catching spectacles a 30-minute drive away at Gwangalli Beach, where the unique Gwangalli M Drone Light Show features hundreds of drones flying in formation to create spectacular designs in the night sky. The 10-minute shows take place twice every Saturday evening, with a different theme every week. Watch from a table at one of the restaurants lining the beach and follow the show with some delicious grilled clams. 

Nature-loving dynamos

Love riding the surf, or always wanted to try? The unique topography of Songjeong Beach, to the east of Busan’s centre, makes it a popular destination for surfers. This long, beautiful curve of white sand has plenty of board rental and surf classes on offer, and its shallow waters make it a great spot for beginners to take to the waves.

An invigorating hour’s hike along a coastal path (or about a 20-minute drive) north brings you to the historic Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, which sits on rocks overlooking the ocean. The main temple area is reached down 108 steps. The reward: stunning views and beautiful serene grounds full of various statues and shrines where you can pray for everything from having sons to gaining academic success.

Experience a greener side of Busan at the Ahopsan Forest. Photo: Korea Tourism Organisation

After taking in the natural splendour of the coasts, take the car about 40 minutes inland to the lush greenery of Ahopsan Forest. This verdant nature reserve has been managed by nine generations of the same family for over 400 years, and is home to many centuries-old trees and dense plantations of statuesque ancient bamboo. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and carry water and insect repellent as you explore the trails for an hour or two.

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Insta-addicted view collectors

If scenic vistas, spectacular sunsets and colourful little streets are your reason to travel, you’ll find plenty to love in Yeongdo-Gu, a lush island just south of Busan. Start by strolling down the Jeoryeong Coastal Trail, a three-kilometre route hugging the island’s western coast. Stop at its various lookout points for stunning sea views. For Insta-worthy photos, strike a pose by mosaic-tiled murals and the multicoloured Piano Stairs, painted like a colourful keyboard.

Jeoryeong Coastal Trail. Photo: Korea Tourism Organisation

After about 800m on the trail you’ll find yourself at the entrance to the Huinnyeoul Culture Village. This cliffside village was once home to Korean War refugees but has been transformed into a vibrant cultural destination. Take some time to wander the narrow alleys to spot colourful murals, street art and mosaics that make perfect selfie backgrounds. 

A 25-minute walk from the village will take you to Yeongdo Sky Observatory, a scenic perch that offers unparalleled coastal views – and views straight down through its glass floor! If you time your visit just right, you can end your day with snapshots of a spectacular sunset over the East China Sea.

Hungry shopaholics and mall prowlers

Before embarking on your retail therapy, fuel up for a day of shopping at Jeonpo Cafe Street. This colourful lane is lined with countless cafés and restaurants, with favourites including drip-coffee house Grampaa, roastery/café Daunt and “croissant boutique” Crashop.

Jeonpo Cafe Street’s lined with hip cafés and restaurants. Photo: Korea Tourism Organisation

Next, get some serious shopping done at Lotte Premium Outlets at Dongbusan, 30 minutes away by car. This sprawling shopping mall has a striking blue and white design, inspired by Greek Island chic, and is home to retail outlets for popular international and local brands. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, take a short walk to the Misigilsang Food Hall Busan where you can eat some of the city’s favourite foods, such as 101 Namsan’s pork cutlet and Mealtop’s bingsu, a Korean shaved ice dessert. 

For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Busan, click here.

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Protecting the Indian art of Kalamkari

Down a narrow lane of quaint old cottages I come across a more modern residence, painted in pink and orange. I step inside. The hallway is piled with traditionally patterned cotton fabric, stacked against the wall or hanging from hooks. Rows of shelves hold paint buckets filled with yellows, reds and indigos. There is an array of brushes of all sizes. Incense permeates the air while the distant chiming of temple bells fills my ears. Further in, men and women are sitting on the floor, engrossed in their art.

This scene of creative chaos is the renowned Sri Vijayalakshmi Fine Kalamkari Arts studio in Srikalahasti, a uniquely important space for the fine – and endangered – art of Kalamkari. I’m in town to meet award-winning Kalamkari artist M Viswanatha Reddy and G Chandra, who manages this family-run workshop. 

Entryway into Shri Vijayalakshmi Fine Kalamkari Arts studio. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Unfinished pieces lie in wait for finishing touches. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Kalamkari is the intricate art of hand-painting cotton textiles with natural dyes, a traditional craft that involves 23 laborious steps. The word kalam refers to the pen which is used for Kalamkari. This style of textile-making is said to have originated here in Srikalahasti, a small town on the Swarnamukhi river in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, three hours from Chennai. Srikalahasti is also home to a centuries-old Shiva temple from the Chola dynasty, and the influence of the temple’s murals and sculptures can be seen in many Kalamkari patterns. It’s common to see Kalamkari saris, wall hangings and other decorative items, and common motifs include paisleys, peacocks, flowers and even characters and scenes from the Hindu epics.

The painstaking process of Kalamkari

Chandra explains the labour-intensive steps involved in this beautiful and ancient art. First, artisans wash cotton fabric in river water from underground bore wells. They believe that the particular chemical composition of this water helps fix the dyes in later steps. After the fabric dries, an artisan will soak it in pindhi, a special paste made with dried flowers mixed with buffalo’s milk. This colours it yellow and helps stop the dyes from bleeding.

National award winner Visvanatha Reddy creating his original designs with a charcoal pen. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Pencilling in the details. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Once dry, the base Kalamkari cloth is ready to be painted. “We use burnt tamarind bark to draw outlines onto the fabric,” explains Reddy, who received a National Artist Award from the Government of India for his artistry. These outlines are then brought alive with the vibrant colours for which this textile is famous. Kalamkari’s beautiful hues are derived from an inventive range of materials: jaggery and bits of rusted iron produce black ink; red comes from alum; flowers of the succulent plant karkai make yellow dye; katha (from acacia trees) produces brown; and boiling chawal kodi (a kind of tree vine) with alum and water makes pink. 

“The art of Kalamkari is vigorous and time-consuming and there are many steps before and after the paintings are complete,” notes Chandra. The fabric is washed after each colour application, so pieces may need up to 20 washes and take several days to finish. It’s a technique that has been developed over countless generations. 

Chandra explains how each colour is naturally derived. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Different dry herbs flowers and seeds that give natural colours. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Beauty born from imperfection

“What makes the hand-painted Kalamkari of Srikalahasti so special is that it is still made today as it was hundreds of years ago, completely by hand, using natural colours and dyes,” says Anita Reddy, the honorary president and founding trustee of Dwaraka, an NGO dedicated to promoting this iconic craft. This natural, traditional, human process means the final colours in each piece are unique. They change according to the treatment of the cloth and the quality of the colour fixer, so there are inconsistencies, smudged lines and minor bleeds in the fabric.

“But this is the beauty of hand-painted Kalamkari – the imperfections. They speak to the human element in its production,” says Ayush Kejriwal, a Glasgow-based Indian designer who works with a group of Kalamkari artists to create unique traditional outfits. His Kalamkari designs are some of the most popular pieces in his collection, because customers want exclusive heirloom pieces for special events like weddings.

Designs by Glasgow-based Indian designer Ayush Kejriwal, which feature hand-painted Kalamkari. Photo: Ayush Kejriwal

The designer himself. Photo: Ayush Kejriwal

It’s also important to Kejriwal that customers know how to care for these unique textile treasures such that they may last (at least) a lifetime. “True hand-painted pieces have a distinctive smell due to the proteins in the milk used in the process – that’s how you can tell they are authentic. To deal with this, simply air it out in a room with a few incense sticks for a day or two.” Kalamkari textiles should be washed with a mild baby shampoo and warm water, and left to air after ironing. They are best stored in a muslin cloth with silica gel to absorb excess moisture. 

At the end of the day, we all want to keep the kalam, and hence the power, in the hands of the artist – because that’s where it truly belongs.

Protecting an endangered heritage craft

Kalamkari is such a complex textile, both to produce and care for, that it’s in danger of disappearing. Due to the intricacies of the process and difficulty in making a decent living from it, traditional Kalamkari is declining in rural communities like Srikalahasti. Many artists have abandoned their craft in search of better employment opportunities. Large-scale commercial production and machine-generated Kalamkari designs are another threat, flooding the market and devaluing the price of authentic work. This puts a lot of pressure on artists like Chandra and Viswanatha, making it harder to support their families.

However, the Crafts Council of India, the Indian government and organisations like Dwaraka are determined to revive and protect Kalamkari, in the belief that traditional arts are an integral part of India’s rich culture and heritage. “At Dwaraka, our objective is twofold: offer vocational training to craftspeople – especially women in a trade that has historically been male-dominated – and equip them with the resources to run a profitable business,” says Reddy.

High-end international designers such as Kejriwal also have an important role to play in maintaining the market value of this precious craft. “I don’t do any mass production. My work is a true collaboration with the master craftsmen who bring my designs to life. I list how many man hours each product takes to make and publish profiles of the artists who work on them so my customers know who is making their clothes.” 

As Reddy notes, “At the end of the day, we all want to keep the kalam, and hence the power, in the hands of the artist – because that’s where it truly belongs.”

Visvanatha Reddy (third from right), Chandra (second from right) and family. Photo: Karthika Gupta

Where to find Kalamkari

In Srikalahasti, a three-hour drive from Chennai, swing by the Sri Vijayalakshmi Fine Kalamkari Arts in Andhra Pradesh, Chittor to meet the featured artists and view their work – which are also available for purchase. 

In Chennai, the Kalakshetra Foundation (supported by the Ministry of Culture Government of India) holds workshops and classes on the art of Kalamkari.

To learn more or book a flight to Chennai on Singapore Airlines, visit the official website.

The post Protecting the Indian art of Kalamkari appeared first on SilverKris.

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Découvrez les salons SilverKris et KrisFlyer Gold récemment rénovés à laéroport de Changi

Votre voyage avec Singapore Airlines (SIA) commence avant même que vous ne montiez à bord de nos avions. Dès que vous entrez dans la zone de transit du terminal 3 de l’aéroport Changi, dirigez-vous vers les portes d’embarquement A1-A8 et montez au deuxième étage, où vous serez accueillis par une magnifique façade ornée de fleurs en verre fabriquées à la main et inspirées du motif Batik de Singapore Airlines. Créée par l’artiste singapourienne B. Jane Cowie, cette façade représente un ensemble de motifs floraux et de feuillages, éclairé d’une lumière douce sur fond bleu emblématique de SIA.

Une fois au deuxième étage, vous vous retrouverez dans le hall d’entrée récemment rénové du salon SilverKris, imprégné d’une touche olfactive du Batik Flora, le parfum distinctif de SIA créé en collaboration avec Scent by SIX et élaboré à partir des six fleurs qui composent le motif Batik. Entrez dans le nouveau salon et vous serez transporté dans un havre de confort, de chaleur et d’intimité pour votre plus grand bien-être. Le hall spacieux a été conçu en tenant compte d’un objectif essentiel : favoriser un accès direct à la Private Room, et aux salons Silver Kris de la Première classe et de la Classe Affaires depuis l’entrée principale.

N’oubliez pas de prendre un selfie devant l’impressionnante façade et le partager sur les réseaux sociaux (avec le tag #FlySQ).

Nul doute que les clients utilisant fréquemment les salons des aéroports apprécieront les nouveautés apportées par SIA, d’un montant de 50 millions de dollars, destinées à améliorer le confort et la fluidité des voyages et répondre aux besoins en constante évolution des voyageurs. Les stations de préparation culinaire en direct, par exemple, ont été améliorés, tout comme les zones de productivité et de repos, ainsi que les douches et les toilettes, qui ont été modernisées. Conçus par le célèbre cabinet de design Hirsch Bedner Associates, les nouveaux salons intègrent des finitions contemporaines et des équipements modernes, dans un esprit d’élégance intemporelle.

Découvrez maintenant la nouvelle Private Room, les salons Silver Kris de la Première Classe et de la Classe Affaires rénovés, ainsi que le nouveau salon KrisFlyer Gold.

La Private Room

Votre propre espace privé : Sur présentation de votre carte d’embarquement, vous serez directement accompagné dans la Private Room par notre personnel accueillant. Équipée de 78 sièges, la Private Room a été conçue dans un souci d’intimité et d’exclusivité. Elle propose plusieurs zones assises et de repos pour répondre à vos besoins : des mini cabines séparées par des étagères décoratives pour assurer l’intimité des voyageurs individuels, des cabines en duo pour les clients voyageant en petits groupes, quatre salles de séjour pour les voyageurs en quête d’intimité et de détente, une aire de jeux pour les enfants et une cabine téléphonique pour les passagers qui souhaitent prendre leurs appels en privé.

Zoom sur le design : Admirez l’élégance discrète des luminaires de la Private Room. Dans le hall d’entrée, laissez-vous séduire par un dôme lumineux exquis orné de fleurs en cristal Lalique inspirées du gingembre aquatique, l’une des fleurs du motif Batik de SIA. Ce dôme a été conçu par Lalique spécialement pour SIA. Au centre du salon, encadré par de grands écrans de verre architecturaux, se trouve un refuge spacieux idéal pour les familles. Des installations lumineuses personnalisées par Lasvit renforcent l’ambiance luxuriante inspirée de la nature, des océans et de la végétation. Les cadres en cristal qui entourent les cabines destinées au restaurant ont également été créés par Lasvit. Deux œuvres d’art de Hong Zhu An, Peace and Prosperity I et Peace and Prosperity II, ornant les murs de la Private Room depuis sa création, y ajoutent une touche familière au fil des années.

Les fleurs de cristal du dôme de lumière Lalique sont inspirées du gingembre aquatique, une espèce menacée d’extinction à Singapour et l’une des fleurs utilisées dans le motif batik de SIA.

La « Private Room », cet espace exclusif au sein du salon Silver Kris, propose des installations lumineuses personnalisables créées par Lasvit.

Pour dîner ou prendre un verre : Avec 28 places réparties dans un environnement spacieux, prendre un repas dans la Private Room est toujours une expérience intime et agréable. Les clients peuvent choisir leurs plats à partir d’un menu proposant une sélection internationale. Ils y trouveront également des plats locaux appréciés, agrémentés d’une touche haut de gamme, tels que le laksa au homard et le wagyu satay. Servez-vous en boissons chaudes dans l’espace dédié ou demandez à tout moment de la journée un café fraîchement préparé auprès de notre barista.

Pour bien vous reposer : Reposez-vous ou détendez-vous confortablement en attendant votre vol. Si vous avez besoin de plus d’intimité ou si votre escale est plus longue, réservez l’une des quatre chambres spacieuses où vous pouvez travailler, vous détendre, vous rafraîchir et même faire un peu d’exercice. Toutes ces salles disposent d’un éclairage réglable et sont équipées de fauteuils inclinables Poltrona Frau. Deux des chambres sont équipées de lits simples Tempur Zero G associés aux matelas Supreme Firm de la marque, dont l’un des réglages en apesanteur procure à votre corps une relaxation totale. Deux types d’oreillers Tempur sont également disponibles — moelleux et moyennement moelleux — par ailleurs, le sommier du lit peut être surélevé pour les clients qui souhaitent lire ou utiliser leurs appareils portables. Pour une relaxation plus profonde, les parfums « Invigorate » et « Sleep », signés COMO Shambhala, sont disponibles sur demande. Des blocs et tapis de yoga COMO Shambhala sont également proposés aux clients qui souhaitent effectuer quelques mouvements d’étirement.

Ressourcez-vous dans l’une des chambres exclusives dotées de lits Tempur Zero G avec des options de massage par vibrations.

Pour bien vous rafraîchir : La Private Room dispose de trois grandes salles de douche et d’un WC équipé d’une douche et accessible aux fauteuils roulants. Elles sont toutes équipées d’installations sanitaires et de douches GROHE, de toilettes Sensia Arena avec réglages personnalisés et fonctions sans contact permettant l’ouverture, la fermeture et l’activation automatique de la chasse d’eau. Les douches GROHE vous proposent différentes options : jet de pluie, jet d’eau puissant et douchette main. Pour davantage de bien-être, les clients peuvent profiter avant leurs vols d’équipements de douche « Invigorate » de COMO Shambhala. Les familles voyageant avec de jeunes enfants peuvent également bénéficier d’installations pour enfants dans les toilettes, ainsi que d’une salle indépendante de soins pour bébés.

Toutes les salles de bain de la Private Room sont dotées d’équipements sanitaires et de douches signés GROHE et de produits COMO Shambhala. Crédit photo : GROHE Pacific Pte Ltd

Conditions d’accès à la Private Room : La Private Room est uniquement accessible aux passagers voyageant en Suites ou Première Classe de SIA. Vous pouvez y entrer directement depuis le hall principal du salon SilverKris, réduisant ainsi votre parcours par rapport à l’ancien aménagement.

Le salon SilverKris de la Première Classe

Votre espace favori rénové : Ce salon peut accueillir 134 clients et les espaces favoris de ses utilisateurs ont été remis à niveau – un bar principal rénové, une salle à manger et une station de préparation culinaire en direct plus vastes, une salle à manger deux fois plus grande et un bar rénové, des modules de productivité, une salle de réunion dédiée et une nouvelle salle de jeux transparente pour les enfants que leurs parents peuvent surveiller depuis un salon adjacent.

La salle à manger en section Première Classe propose désormais deux fois plus de sièges et peut accueillir confortablement 52 clients, avec quatre banquettes familiales dont les panneaux arrière arborent le motif Batik de SIA.

Zoom sur le design : Rendez-vous au Crystal Bar et admirez le nouveau mur recouvert de luminaires en cristal Lalique. Chaque luminaire sur mesure s’inspire de la forme d’un gingembre aquatique — pouvant même être admirée depuis le hall d’entrée. Les panneaux arrière de la salle à manger de la Première classe sont ornés d’un motif Batik et les murs incurvés près du buffet symbolisent le renouveau dans le domaine du voyage.

Le bar de la Première Classe, très fréquenté par les voyageurs, bénéficie d’un nouveau look et a été rebaptisé avec un nouveau nom — le Crystal Bar — Il est également pourvu de nouveaux éléments lumineux spécialement conçus par Lalique pour SIA

Espaces de productivité : Les modules de productivité — des compartiments idéalement conçus pour les clients ayant besoin de travailler en toute tranquillité — ont d’abord été introduits dans les salons SilverKris à l’étranger et ont été très plébiscités. Une version encore améliorée de ces modules est désormais disponible dans le salon SilverKris à l’aéroport Changi. Une autre nouveauté — le fauteuil modulaire —, conçu par Hirsch Bedner Associates, permet aux clients de travailler et de dîner dans le confort d’un sofa. Une salle de réunion dédiée est également proposée aux voyageurs en Première classe, pouvant accueillir jusqu’à six personnes.

Restauration de Première Classe : Une grande station de préparation culinaire en direct où sont préparés des plats à la carte tels que le bak chor mee et le roti prata constitue l’élément central de la salle à manger de ce salon. Les buffets traditionnels sont remplacés par des comptoirs en libre-service, où les clients peuvent déguster une sélection de mets haut de gamme telles que le laksa aux grandes crevettes, les soba froides et les crèmes glacées. Le matin, une autre station située près du comptoir à café sert des gaufres et des pâtisseries fraîchement préparées. Outre les boissons traditionnelles disponibles dans les salons, deux autres espaces sont à votre disposition pour les boissons : le Crystal Bar, avec un barista pendant la journée et un barman le soir, qui sert des cocktails spécialisés comme le SilverKris Sling et l’emblématique Singapore Sling, et un minibar annexe appelé Trunk Bar, où, en toute liberté, les clients peuvent se servir en vins et liqueurs variés.

Les stations de préparation culinaire en direct et les repas préparés par les chefs déjà bien connus et appréciés de nos clients représentent désormais l’élément central de la salle à manger rénovée.

Pour un repos parfait : En Première classe, le salon Silver Kris dispose de quatre chambres, idéales pour les passagers ayant quelques heures à attendre avant leur vol : deux chambres sont équipées de fauteuils inclinables Poltrona Frau, tandis que les deux autres sont dotées de lits simples Tempur Zero G avec matelas Supreme Firm. Deux types d’oreillers Tempur sont disponibles — moelleux et moyennement moelleux — et l’éclairage de la chambre peut être tamisé ou éclairé. Des nouveautés pour le salon Silver Kris de la Première Classe.

Deux chambres sont équipées de lits Tempur Zero G, qui peuvent être disposés à plat pour dormir, ou inclinés pour ceux qui souhaitent lire ou utiliser leurs appareils portables.

Pour bien vous rafraîchir : Le salon Première classe Silver Kris vous propose cinq salles de douche et une toilette équipée d’une douche et accessible en fauteuil roulant. Chaque salle est dotée d’installations sanitaires et de douches GROHE, de toilettes Sensia Arena avec réglages personnalisés et fonctions sans contact permettant l’ouverture, la fermeture et l’activation automatique de la chasse d’eau. Les douches GROHE vous proposent différentes options : jet de pluie, jet d’eau puissant et douchette main. Les familles voyageant avec de jeunes enfants peuvent également bénéficier d’installations pour enfants dans les toilettes, ainsi que d’une salle indépendante de soins pour bébés.

Conditions d’accès : Le salon SilverKris de la Première Classe est accessible aux passagers voyageant en Suite ou en Première classe, à tous les membres du Solitaire PPS Club quelle que soit leur classe de voyage sur SIA, ou aux passagers de Première Classe sur les vols de Star Alliance. L’entrée se fait directement depuis le hall principal du salon SilverKris.

Le salon SilverKris de la Classe Affaires

Plus d’espace et de rénovation : Le nouveau salon SilverKris de la Classe Affaires est désormais le plus grand de tous les salons SilverKris, avec environ 575 sièges mis à la disposition des clients (la surface au sol est plus étendue que la Private Room et le salon Première classe réunis). Le salon le plus fréquenté, son nouveau design comprend plusieurs zones pour répondre aux différents profils et besoins des passagers, notamment une grande salle à manger, un salon de détente, une zone de repos plus paisible et un espace ouvert avec des sièges aux dimensions généreuses.

Faites une pause dans le salon spacieux donnant sur les portes de la zone d’embarquement A1-5, judicieusement situé près de la salle à manger.

Zoom sur le design : Le tout nouveau bar du salon classe Affaires est doté d’un éclairage au plafond qui représente les latitudes du globe et ajuste sa luminosité et sa couleur en fonction de l’heure de la journée. Le point central du salon est constitué par les fauteuils bergères, avec le motif SIA Batik brodé sur du cuir cossu et orangé. Des œuvres d’art des artistes singapouriens Hong Zhu An et Lim Tze Peng sont actuellement exposées dans le salon, dans le cadre d’une collaboration avec la galerie d’art contemporain locale Ode to Art, évoquant des scènes colorées et paisibles pour élargir l’espace visuel. Dans la zone ouverte de type « côté cour », des sièges aux couleurs vives sous des puits de lumière et avec vue sur pistes vous combleront pleinement pendant que vous attendez votre prochain vol.

Un cadre propice à la productivité : Le nouveau salon dispose de sa propre salle de réunion pouvant accueillir jusqu’à six personnes et de plusieurs banquettes modulaires permettant aux clients de travailler et de dîner confortablement. Des modules de productivité et une petite cabine téléphonique pour travailler en toute tranquillité sont également disponibles.

Gagnez en productivité lorsque vous travaillez dans les modules à votre disposition dans le nouveau salon.

Pour mieux vous restaurer : Ce salon propose deux espaces de restauration : les clients désireux de prendre un repas copieux peuvent se rendre dans la salle à manger principale, qui compte près de 200 places assises et un long buffet en libre-service, tandis que l’espace ouvert de l’autre côté du salon propose une restauration légère et des rafraîchissements dans un cadre plus informel et décontracté pour les clients voyageant en famille ou à titre de loisir. Le tout nouveau bar — délibérément placé entre les deux espaces pour être facilement accessible des deux côtés — est tenu par un barista le matin et un barman le soir. Ainsi, les clients de la classe Affaires peuvent désormais savourer leur boisson préférée avec vue sur la piste.

La salle à manger principale dispose d’un long îlot de buffet où les clients peuvent choisir leurs propres repas.

Pour votre repos bien mérité : Les clients ayant besoin de passer la nuit en transit ou de récupérer du décalage horaire peuvent se ressourcer dans la zone de repos située à l’extrémité du salon et bénéficier de 14 chaises longues permettant de se lover dans une cabine individuelle entrouverte, une nouveauté suite aux commentaires de nos clients. Le salon principal est conçu comme une salle de séjour pour plus de confort et de détente. Vous avez quelques minutes à perdre ? Rendez-vous à l’écran interactif KrisShop, développé en collaboration avec Sony, où vous pouvez consulter le catalogue de vente en ligne et acheter via des codes QR.

Pour vous rafraîchir pleinement : Profitez de deux fois plus de douches dans le nouveau salon SilverKris de la classe Affaires. Quinze salles de douche sont désormais disponibles, ainsi que des toilettes et douches accessibles en fauteuil roulant. Les familles voyageant avec de jeunes enfants disposent également d’installations pour enfants dans les toilettes, ainsi que d’une salle de soins pour bébés indépendante.

Conditions d’accès : Le salon SilverKris Classe Affaires est accessible à tous les membres du PPS Club quelle que soit leur classe de voyage sur SIA ou aux passagers voyageant en classe Affaires sur les vols de SIA ou d’une compagnie membre de Star Alliance. Vous pouvez y accéder directement depuis le hall principal du salon SilverKris.

Salon KrisFlyer Gold

Deux fois plus de confort : Le nouveau salon KrisFlyer Gold a doublé de superficie et peut désormais accueillir environ 350 clients. Il s’agit du deuxième plus grand salon après le salon classe Affaires SilverKris. Il est désormais équipé de ses propres douches et est situé dans un magnifique espace ouvert avec des hauts plafonds, ce qui lui confère une atmosphère lumineuse et fraîche — agrémentée d’une vue imprenable sur la piste.

Admirez le décollage et l’atterrissage des avions en attendant votre vol dans le coin salon avec vue sur les pistes.

Zoom sur le design : L’entrée du salon présente des murs incurvés symbolisant le renouveau dans le domaine du voyage et un éclairage évoquant le feu arrière d’un avion. À l’intérieur, l’espace ouvert à double volume est marqué par de hautes structures lumineuses s’inspirant des trajectoires de vol qui évoluent en se ramifiant.

Pour travailler de manière optimale : Le salon KrisFlyer Gold met à votre disposition des tables hautes ainsi que des bureaux ouverts.

Les clients qui préfèrent travailler dans un environnement de bureau trouveront également ces espaces à leur disposition dans le salon.

Espace de restauration : Le buffet a été agrandi et propose un menu renouvelé et élargi. Le salon et la salle à manger se trouvent tous deux dans un espace ouvert, ce qui donne une impression d’espace et de fraîcheur. Même la nuit, le salon KrisFlyer Gold restera fortement empreint de luminosité.

Pour vous rafraîchir : Alors que le salon précédent ne proposait pas ses propres toilettes et douches, les voyageurs fréquents utilisant le nouveau salon KrisFlyer Gold seront très heureux d’apprendre qu’il est désormais doté de trois toilettes dédiées, trois cabines de douche ainsi que des toilettes et une douche accessibles en fauteuil roulant. Des installations pour enfants dans les toilettes, de même qu’une salle de soins pour bébés, sont également mises à disposition des familles voyageant avec de jeunes enfants.

Le salon KrisFlyer Gold rénové propose désormais des douches et toilettes, ainsi qu’une salle de soins pour bébés.

Conditions d’accès : Le salon KrisFlyer Gold est accessible aux membres KrisFlyer Elite Gold ou Star Alliance Gold voyageant sur des vols SIA ou des compagnies Star Alliance, en classe Premium Economy ou classe Économique. Il possède sa propre entrée séparée, à quelques pas du salon SilverKris.

Le salon KrisFlyer Gold dispose d’une entrée séparée, à quelques pas de l’entrée principale du salon SilverKris.

The post Découvrez les salons SilverKris et KrisFlyer Gold récemment rénovés à l’aéroport de Changi appeared first on SilverKris.

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