Friday, March 19, 2010
SEAsia's first Universal Studios opens in Singapore
SINGAPORE (AFP) - – Southeast Asia's first Universal Studios theme park, featuring rides and attractions from box-office hits like "Shrek" and "Madagascar", opened to enthusiastic crowds Thursday in Singapore.
Hundreds of visitors including foreign tourists lined up to be among the first into the 20-hectare (50-acre) park, part of the 4.4-billion-US dollar Resorts World Sentosa casino complex built by Malaysia's Genting Group.
The casino, Singapore's first, started operations last month as part of a drive to draw more visitors to the city-state, which relies on man-made attractions to entice tourists.
Genting Group chairman Lim Kok Thay told reporters Southeast Asia, China and India would be the park's key markets and expressed optimism that visitors would come from as far away as Europe.
"I think there's simply no competition. We are the only park of this kind in this part of the world," he said.
Asia's only other Universal Studios theme park is in Japan, while the company's two other complexes are in California and Florida.
Robert McIntosh, executive director of consultancy CBRE Hotels Asia Pacific, believes the park will boost tourism to Singapore.
"It will be an added benefit for those who are already planning to come to Singapore to visit. It looks to be the kind of theme park that could pull in many visitors based on its attractions," he said.
Andy Nazarechuk, of the University of Las Vegas in Singapore, said: "I think they've set a new standard, not only for Singapore but also for the Asian region.
"I expect it to draw large numbers to this part of the world."
Singaporean newlyweds Raymond Ling and Liew See Eng took the day off to try the roller-coaster rides at the seaside entertainment centre.
"The whole goal was to come here first and experience the most terrifying rides. We'll definitely be taking it as many times as we can," Ling told AFP after getting off a ride called "Battlestar Galactica Human".
The park has seven zones of movie-themed attractions, including an area devoted to Steven Spielberg's "Jurassic Park" and a version of Hollywood's famous "Walk of Fame".
Nine-year-old Chai Jing Xuan, a Singaporean girl who was one of the first to try the "Shrek 4D Adventure" ride, gave it a thumbs-up.
"The best part of the ride was seeing the donkey. He was very funny," she said.
Chinese tourist Huang Wenhui, 26, an engineer who was in Singapore for a one-day stopover, joined the early crowds.
"I'm not a thrill-seeker, but I'm enjoying the whole experience very much," he said.
The park boasts 24 rides and attractions, with 18 originally designed or adapted for Singapore.
Under a phased opening, Resorts World Sentosa launched four premium hotels and a shopping and dining strip in January, followed by the casino and a convention centre last month.
Singapore gave the green light for two casino resorts in 2005, hoping to boost the country's appeal to tourists, and their construction helped fuel a property boom.
A marine life park, a maritime museum, a spa and two more hotels will open at Resorts World Sentosa after 2010.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore's second casino complex, is scheduled to open on April 27. It is now being completed by US-based Las Vegas Sands.
Singapore welcomed 9.7 million visitors last year, down 4.3 percent from 2008 as the global recession hit travel demand, but arrivals have begun to pick up.
There were 908,000 visitors in January, up 17.6 percent from a year ago.
Hundreds of visitors including foreign tourists lined up to be among the first into the 20-hectare (50-acre) park, part of the 4.4-billion-US dollar Resorts World Sentosa casino complex built by Malaysia's Genting Group.
The casino, Singapore's first, started operations last month as part of a drive to draw more visitors to the city-state, which relies on man-made attractions to entice tourists.
Genting Group chairman Lim Kok Thay told reporters Southeast Asia, China and India would be the park's key markets and expressed optimism that visitors would come from as far away as Europe.
"I think there's simply no competition. We are the only park of this kind in this part of the world," he said.
Asia's only other Universal Studios theme park is in Japan, while the company's two other complexes are in California and Florida.
Robert McIntosh, executive director of consultancy CBRE Hotels Asia Pacific, believes the park will boost tourism to Singapore.
"It will be an added benefit for those who are already planning to come to Singapore to visit. It looks to be the kind of theme park that could pull in many visitors based on its attractions," he said.
Andy Nazarechuk, of the University of Las Vegas in Singapore, said: "I think they've set a new standard, not only for Singapore but also for the Asian region.
"I expect it to draw large numbers to this part of the world."
Singaporean newlyweds Raymond Ling and Liew See Eng took the day off to try the roller-coaster rides at the seaside entertainment centre.
"The whole goal was to come here first and experience the most terrifying rides. We'll definitely be taking it as many times as we can," Ling told AFP after getting off a ride called "Battlestar Galactica Human".
The park has seven zones of movie-themed attractions, including an area devoted to Steven Spielberg's "Jurassic Park" and a version of Hollywood's famous "Walk of Fame".
Nine-year-old Chai Jing Xuan, a Singaporean girl who was one of the first to try the "Shrek 4D Adventure" ride, gave it a thumbs-up.
"The best part of the ride was seeing the donkey. He was very funny," she said.
Chinese tourist Huang Wenhui, 26, an engineer who was in Singapore for a one-day stopover, joined the early crowds.
"I'm not a thrill-seeker, but I'm enjoying the whole experience very much," he said.
The park boasts 24 rides and attractions, with 18 originally designed or adapted for Singapore.
Under a phased opening, Resorts World Sentosa launched four premium hotels and a shopping and dining strip in January, followed by the casino and a convention centre last month.
Singapore gave the green light for two casino resorts in 2005, hoping to boost the country's appeal to tourists, and their construction helped fuel a property boom.
A marine life park, a maritime museum, a spa and two more hotels will open at Resorts World Sentosa after 2010.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore's second casino complex, is scheduled to open on April 27. It is now being completed by US-based Las Vegas Sands.
Singapore welcomed 9.7 million visitors last year, down 4.3 percent from 2008 as the global recession hit travel demand, but arrivals have begun to pick up.
There were 908,000 visitors in January, up 17.6 percent from a year ago.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Booming Singapore Tourism & Hospitality~ Universal Studios Singapore
Miles of smiles and fun at Universal Studios Singapore
By Susan Ferroa, channelnewsasia.com Posted: 16 March 2010 2034 hrs
Singapore: Universal Studios Singapore throws opens its doors open to the public on Thursday 18 March and no one is more excited than the crew at the theme-park. Even the overcast sky couldn't blot out the smiles galore during the sneak peek for the media and other invited guests which ranged from families with prams and grandmas shuffling along. The best part was each smile radiated with a warmth that seemed to come from the heart with no dead-pan "Hi", "How are you" or "Have a nice day" recited from rote.
Enter the theme-park from the turn-stiles behind the giant spinning Universal Studios globe where ushers in smart red uniforms will greet you while checking your ticket. First impression, the Singapore theme-park is very reminiscent of other Universal Studios theme-parks such as the one in Australia's Gold Coast, from the broad streets to the stylised buildings in the different worlds and the live shows. Just a short stroll from the main entrance which is part of the Hollywood zone, will bring you to the Pantages Hollywood Theater where you can catch a lively musical presentation of "Monster Rock".
The show that runs just under 30 minutes at regular intervals, may not be for the little ones with 'stars' that include Frankenstein, the Mummy and Dracula. However, once the talented and energy-charged cast start their song and dance routines, the children may forget their nerves to dance and clap along. And clap, scream, whistle you must if you are to enjoy the rock revue where older 'kids' will surely appreciate with a musical line-up that includes a finale of Bon Jovi hits amid fireworks on stage. Stumbling out of the cool auditorium to the warm and humid streets, don't be surprised to be dragged into being part of a street performance or two. If it rains, not to worry, the streets are covered with a clear canopy that lets the daylight in while keeping visitors relatively dry.
The theme-park will have 24 rides but not all will be open come March 18, and some may need slight tweaking so visitors during the soft launch will need to be patient and maybe take time to chat to the very friendly staff. Most of the hosts at the theme-park are Singaporeans, either young and fresh from school or mid-career old hands, who would share insights of the rides and theme-park with ease and exuberance. This makes it a pleasant wait for rides which includes the gravity-defying Humans versus Cylons dueling roller-coasters,the tallest of its kind in the world.
This ride is part of Sci-Fi city which leads to Ancient Egypt where sombre chants reverberate from hidden speakers while 'sandstone statues' from the past tower over visitors. Here,another roller-coaster ride awaits in the Revenge of the Mummy, while the faint-hearted and family with young children, can opt for the Treasure Hunters ride. Circle round to the Lost World zone where dinosaurs lurk, and Madagascar where music and mayhem rule. Each zone comes complete with its own dining options, so in Egypt be ready to feast on spicy fare in a food hall with finishes from wood work to lamps, that will transport visitors to a Middle Eastern bazaar.
It would be a waste to miss a burger and malt at Mel's Diner located at the cross-roads of the American-themed zones of Hollywood and New York, but if grandparents aren't too adventurous, there's a Chinese restaurant a stone's throw away. Be prepared to pay about S$10 for simple fare like a sandwich and soft drink, which can be redeemed with a food voucher that comes with the ticket during the soft launch. Like all theme-parks there will be gift shops galore where it seemed the going rate was S$4.90 if you're on a budget. You will leave tired, but happy. That means the theme-park has worked it magic. It also helps that the team on the ground make it a happy time for you, and for the sneak peek that includes the send-off by the cheerful, colourful staff which should become a permanent feature. That's because people make a difference and at Universal Studios Singapore, they sure do. - CNA/sf
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE EXPECTS 4.5 MIL VISITORS
By Zakaria Abdul Wahab - Wednesday, March 17SINGAPORE, March 16 (Bernama) -- Singapore's Universal Studios located within Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) on Sentosa Island is officially set to open to the public on Thursday.
The Hollywood movie themed-park opening would cap Malaysia's Genting-owned RWS's phased development of the US$4.4 billion project.
The resort opened four hotels namely the Hard Rock Singapore, Festive Hotel, Hotel Michael and Crockfords Tower in January followed by the casino last month.
RWS's Communication Assistant Director Robin Goh told newsmen, during a pre-opening tour today, that 4.5 million visitors are expected to visit Universal Studios while the resort anticipares a tourist arrival of over 13 million.
The resort's opening is ahead of another multi-billion US dollar integrated resort, the Marina Bay Sands, which has been scheduled to open next month.
Goh said Universal Studios Singapore, South-east Asia's largest theme park, brought together the best of Universal Studios theme parks in Hollywood (California), Orlando (Florida) and Osaka (Japan) with a pair of the world's tallest roller-coasters, the world's first castle from the world of Shrek and Madagascar theme park ride.
The park features 24 rides and attractions in seven themed zones – Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, The Lost World, Far Far Away and Madagascar, and 18 of them original or adapted for Singapore.
Ticket prices for one-day pass to Universal Studios, inclusive of admission to all rides and depending on peak and non-peak seasons, ranges from S$66 to S$72 for adult, S$48 to S$52 for children, between the ages of four and 12, and S$32 to $36 for senior citizens above 65.
However, tickets to Universal Studios, from the opening day until Sunday, have been sold out due to the school holidays in Singapore.
-- BERNAMA
ZAW VMD
Monday, March 8, 2010
Success Stories ~ Testimonials of two Indian Students
Success Stories
Nanyang Institute of Management is regarded as one of the leading Hospitality schools in Singapore. We offer industry relevant education and training, from state of the art facilities in the heart of the Central Business District.
We have strong tie ups with all the leading hotels, restaurants and travel agencies in Singapore, giving us an unrivalled reputation for their ability to place students into industrial based training.
No other school in Singapore can match this. On top of this, we can also boast recent successes, from students who have been granted S - Pass (Skilled Pass), who are now enjoying employment in Singapore.
1/ Mr Tarsem Singh (S-Pass Holder)
Hello. My name is Tarsem Singh. I studied for a Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management at Nanyang Institute of Management.
The standard of teaching was very high and equipped me with all the knowledge required to begin my career in the Hospitality sector.At the end of my course Nanyang placed me into a 6 months’ industrial attachment in the City area, Novena.This was very enjoyable and I learnt so much, and was able to put into practice what I had learnt in the classroom.
I am pleased to say that at the end of my 6 months’ attachment I was offered full time employment and I'm now holding an S-Pass and enjoying life in Singapore. I would like to thank all the teachers and staff at Nanyang Institute of Management for all their help and guidance throughout my studies and internship, and for making all this possible.
2/ Ms Neilly Bar (doing her Internship at Universal Studios)
Hi,
I am Neilly Bar pursuing Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management in Nanyang Institute of Management since May 2009 and I must say, that my journey through the whole course has been rather a spectacular one!
I first learnt about NIM through a counselling agency in Delhi, India from where I belong.
The course was exactly what I was looking for. It had the right amount of theory and industrial experience unlike what the other schools were offering for a student applying for diploma. NIM also has other courses like the School of language, business and early childhood.
NIM is a Quality Class Private Education Organisation (SQC-PEO). It has a great location, excellent staff and wonderful logistic support. To be very honest, my very first interaction with the institute made me want to be a part of the family. They are very student friendly and efficient. Lets not forget the teachers. Our professors have great knowledge and experience in their respective fields. I mean, we have teachers who have 10-15 years of experience in the hotel and tourism industry. So whatever we were taught was coming from all the expertees of the hotel and tourism industry and we knew we were in great hands.
All the teachers has played a major role in my growth in the school. Beside their knowledge in the industry, they are very friendly, encourages every student to perform even better and extremely helpful. I never knew classes could be this much fun. After the 6 months of theory, students are sent off for their IA (Industrial Attachment) for 8 months which is, ofcourse, provided by the institute. Let me point out one very important aspect of NIM. NIM provides the best internships to students, and this fact is known to everyone and even to people who are not a part of NIM. I am now doing my internship in Universal Studios, Singapore and I am very happy with it. Most of my batch mates are all working in 5 stars and 6 stars hotels, resorts and travel agencies.
Nanyang has taught me a lot in a very short time. NIM showed me the way to my future and I truly appreciate all the love and support by my teachers, the staffs and the whole administration. I couldn't have asked for anything more.So keep up the good work.
And I wish NIM achieves great success in the future, which they truly deserve.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Marina Bay Sands integrated resort to open in phases from Apr 27
SINGAPORE: Las Vegas Sands said it plans to open the first phase of its US$5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands development on 27 April 2010.Sheldon Adelson, chairman and chief executive officer of Las Vegas Sands, said the integrated resort will immediately go to work by hosting its first event — the Inter—Pacific Bar Association’s annual conference — just days after opening its doors.
The second phase will open on June 23 as part of the grand opening. This will include the opening of the SkyPark and Event Plaza.
The dates were announced in a statement by Las Vegas Sands on its website.
In October, one of the property’s two state—of—the—art theatres will welcome Disney’s The Lion King. The second theatre, which will also open later this year, will be home to a variety of special events and famous headline acts.
The iconic Marina Bay Sands museum is expected to open by December. It will not only feature international blockbuster exhibitions, but it will also serve as a symbolic welcome to guests — with its unique lotus—inspired design — from around the globe.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Singapore First Casino Open on 14th Feb at Sentosa Resort World
With the newly opened casino at the Integrated Resort, Sentosa, Universal Studios set to open its doors, Marina Bay Sands shortly after, the hospitality sector in Singapore is currently booming. Restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls are seeing an increase in visitor numbers, this gives everyone confidence. Job opportunities are expected to rise within the sector, resulting in employers looking for suitably qualified candidates. (attached News Snippets from The Straits Time, 20th Feb)
This is an ideal time to be studying in Singapore. Nanyang Institute of Management will equip its students to compete in the Job market. Our recent successes with students being granted S Pass and Employment Pass respectively are testament to that.
This is an ideal time to be studying in Singapore. Nanyang Institute of Management will equip its students to compete in the Job market. Our recent successes with students being granted S Pass and Employment Pass respectively are testament to that.
Our next intake date for Tourism and Hospitality Management is 12th April 2010.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Testimonial from Nyan Lin Tun
My name is Nyan Lin Tun. I have graduated with Advanced Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management from Nanyang Institute of Management.
I have gained a lot of knowledge concerning about Singapore Tourism & Hospitality Industry during my study period in Nanyang. The school put me at Mandarin Oriental Hotel for my industrial attachment. This made me to get more confidence to enter this industry and eager to continue to study advanced diploma.
After I finished my advanced diploma from Nanyang, I have been offered for full time job. That’s made my dream come true because every student wants to have full time job after study, so do I. Now, I am holding Skill Pass (S Pass) and working as a Customer Service Operations Manager. I am now very happy and satisfy my life in Singapore. My dream becomes alive because of Nanyang Institute of Management.
Finally, I would like to thank Nanyang Institute of Management which supported me with helpful staffs and experienced lecturers to become my dream come true.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
Testimonial from Arun Deep
Arun Deep
KHANSAMA TANDOORI RESTAURANT
Senior Sales and Marketing Manager (Employment Pass Holder)
KHANSAMA TANDOORI RESTAURANT
Senior Sales and Marketing Manager (Employment Pass Holder)
Myself Arun Deep, I have completed my Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management. Today I feel very proud to be a part of Nanyang. I must say that today what position I get just because of Nanyang.
And also I feel that all the Nanyang Staff and teachers are very very good, helpful and have deep knowledge. I felt that my decision to study in Nanyang is very right; especially I like Ms. Hazel & Mr. Jimmy Tan.
And also I feel that all the Nanyang Staff and teachers are very very good, helpful and have deep knowledge. I felt that my decision to study in Nanyang is very right; especially I like Ms. Hazel & Mr. Jimmy Tan.
Testimonial from Ei Shwe Zin
Hello, my name is Ei Shwe Zin.
I was interested in Singapore Tourism & Hospitality Management Industry when I was in Myanmar. It made me want to study about it. That’s why I chose Nanyang Institute of Management Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Programme.
By studying in Nanyang, I am more and more interested and keen to work in Singapore Tourism and Hospitality Industry. And the school also trained me not only in theory, but also attachment for 6 months in Park Hotel. Now, I have graduated with Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Nanyang Institute of Management.
Currently, I am working at Mo Mo Ya Japanese Restaurant as a Supervisor and holding S pass (Skill Pass).
I would like to say thank you to Nanyang Institute of Management that supported me with full infrastructure and facilities, experienced lecturers and helpful staffs.
I was interested in Singapore Tourism & Hospitality Management Industry when I was in Myanmar. It made me want to study about it. That’s why I chose Nanyang Institute of Management Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Programme.
By studying in Nanyang, I am more and more interested and keen to work in Singapore Tourism and Hospitality Industry. And the school also trained me not only in theory, but also attachment for 6 months in Park Hotel. Now, I have graduated with Diploma in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Nanyang Institute of Management.
Currently, I am working at Mo Mo Ya Japanese Restaurant as a Supervisor and holding S pass (Skill Pass).
I would like to say thank you to Nanyang Institute of Management that supported me with full infrastructure and facilities, experienced lecturers and helpful staffs.
Testimonial from Mya Pyie Song
Hello everybody!
My name is Mya Pyie Song. I am one of the students from Nayang Institute of Management. I have graduated from Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management.
In Nanyang Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management Programme, I have studied not only theory modules, but also practical modules. After I finished my 6 months theory, Nanyang placed me at 5 stars Hotel for my attachment. During the attachment, I gained a lot of Singapore Tourism & Hospitality Industrial experiences.
After I finished Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality from Nanyang, I got the confidence to work in this industry especially how to serve the customers. After my industrial attachment, I got Spass (Skill Pass) and now I am working at Prima Deli as a Supervisor.
I would like to say thank you to Nanyang Institute of Management that guide me the way to reach my aim.
In Nanyang Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management Programme, I have studied not only theory modules, but also practical modules. After I finished my 6 months theory, Nanyang placed me at 5 stars Hotel for my attachment. During the attachment, I gained a lot of Singapore Tourism & Hospitality Industrial experiences.
After I finished Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality from Nanyang, I got the confidence to work in this industry especially how to serve the customers. After my industrial attachment, I got Spass (Skill Pass) and now I am working at Prima Deli as a Supervisor.
I would like to say thank you to Nanyang Institute of Management that guide me the way to reach my aim.
Friday, February 5, 2010
This makes Nanyang Institute of Management the ideal place to study in Singapore!!
Dear All,
Nanyang Institute of Management has a first class reputation throughout Asia as an Institute that provides top quality, industry relevant education and training. We have tie ups with all the leading hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies in Singapore, enabling us to place all our students for industrial attachment. If our students wish to travel further afield, we can provide attachments in Europe.
With the high standard of theoretical and practical training our students receive, it enables them to compete in the job market, not only back in their homelands, but here in Singapore.
Recently some of our students have been granted S -Pass and Employment Pass for working in Singapore:
S Pass Holders!!!
1/ Ei Shwee Zin
2/ Phyu Phyu Win Naing
3/ Mya Pyie Song
4/ Nyan Lin Tun
Employment Pass Holders!!!
1/ Arun Deep
2/ Patel Keyur Rashikbhai
This makes Nanyang Institute of Management the ideal place to study in Singapore!!
Next Intake : 1st March 2010 Submit New Applications NOW!
Nanyang Institute of Management has a first class reputation throughout Asia as an Institute that provides top quality, industry relevant education and training. We have tie ups with all the leading hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies in Singapore, enabling us to place all our students for industrial attachment. If our students wish to travel further afield, we can provide attachments in Europe.
With the high standard of theoretical and practical training our students receive, it enables them to compete in the job market, not only back in their homelands, but here in Singapore.
Recently some of our students have been granted S -Pass and Employment Pass for working in Singapore:
S Pass Holders!!!
1/ Ei Shwee Zin
2/ Phyu Phyu Win Naing3/ Mya Pyie Song
4/ Nyan Lin Tun
Employment Pass Holders!!!
1/ Arun Deep
2/ Patel Keyur Rashikbhai
This makes Nanyang Institute of Management the ideal place to study in Singapore!!
Next Intake : 1st March 2010 Submit New Applications NOW!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Good News (Another NIM Student Got SPass)
Dear All,
One of our students, Tarseem Singh, has been granted S -Pass (Skill Pass) and is now employed and working happily in Singapore. He has just returned to Nanyang to inform us that his company is looking for interns and would welcome more Nanyang students to do their internship there!
This goes to prove NIM equips our students with all the necessary attributes to succeed in their chosen career, so that when employment opportunities arise, NIM students can compete and be successful in the jobs market.
With our strong tie ups with all the leading hotels, restaurants and travel agencies throughout Singapore, this makes NIM the Number1 school to study in Singapore!
Do keep new applications coming in!! Next Tourism and Hospitality intake : 1st March 2010.
Last date to submit is 5th Feb 2010.
One of our students, Tarseem Singh, has been granted S -Pass (Skill Pass) and is now employed and working happily in Singapore. He has just returned to Nanyang to inform us that his company is looking for interns and would welcome more Nanyang students to do their internship there!
This goes to prove NIM equips our students with all the necessary attributes to succeed in their chosen career, so that when employment opportunities arise, NIM students can compete and be successful in the jobs market.
With our strong tie ups with all the leading hotels, restaurants and travel agencies throughout Singapore, this makes NIM the Number1 school to study in Singapore!
Do keep new applications coming in!! Next Tourism and Hospitality intake : 1st March 2010.
Last date to submit is 5th Feb 2010.
Marina Bay Sands starts training casino dealersChannel NewsAsia - Friday, January 22
SINGAPORE: Marina Bay Sands has begun training a few hundred dealer inspectors, cashiers and surveillance staff for the casino.
A spokesman for the integrated resort said this is part of an extensive training programme underway for all levels of staff.
Many dealers had been hired to work at the Integrated Resort from July last year.
However, construction woes led to delays in the opening date of Marina Bay Sands and that, in turn, led to uncertainty among employees as to when training and work would start.
That’s changed now.
Dealers MediaCorp spoke to said they’d been asked to turn up for uniform measurements and to get their staff passes done next week, followed by training.
Marina Bay Sands was unable to confirm exactly when the first batch of training started but added that typically, such floor training takes about three months, after which such employees must get a competency certificate.
There is also another hurdle for them to clear.
They also have to be interviewed and clear background checks by the Casino Regulatory Authority.
CRA said, in a statement, that it received the complete casino licence application from Marina Bay Sands in November last year.
It added that processing such applications typically take three months or more but that progress is good.
Marina Bay Sands had previously said that it will open its first phase of the resort in April. — CNA/vm
A spokesman for the integrated resort said this is part of an extensive training programme underway for all levels of staff.
Many dealers had been hired to work at the Integrated Resort from July last year.
However, construction woes led to delays in the opening date of Marina Bay Sands and that, in turn, led to uncertainty among employees as to when training and work would start.
That’s changed now.
Dealers MediaCorp spoke to said they’d been asked to turn up for uniform measurements and to get their staff passes done next week, followed by training.
Marina Bay Sands was unable to confirm exactly when the first batch of training started but added that typically, such floor training takes about three months, after which such employees must get a competency certificate.
There is also another hurdle for them to clear.
They also have to be interviewed and clear background checks by the Casino Regulatory Authority.
CRA said, in a statement, that it received the complete casino licence application from Marina Bay Sands in November last year.
It added that processing such applications typically take three months or more but that progress is good.
Marina Bay Sands had previously said that it will open its first phase of the resort in April. — CNA/vm
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Singapore's first casino-resort partially opens
By CHUN HAN WONG,Associated Press Writer - Wednesday, January 20
SINGAPORE – Singapore's first casino-resort partially opened Wednesday, a key part of a government plan to reduce reliance on manufacturing and brand the tightly controlled city-state as a cosmopolitan Asian capital.
Resorts World Sentosa, built by Malaysia's Genting Bhd for 6.6 billion Singapore dollars ($5 billion), opened 1,340 rooms in four hotels, including a Hard Rock hotel and a property designed by architect Michael Graves. Its 7,300-seat ballroom, one of Asia's largest, will host its first event at the end of this month.
A Universal Studios theme park is expected to open in the coming weeks on the sprawling 49-hectare complex on Sentosa, an island a quarter of a mile off Singapore's coast. No firm date has been set, said Genting chairman Lim Kok Thay, contradicting reports it would open next week.
The resort's casino, the city-state's first, is expected to open in March after Genting's application for a license was delayed to December from October when gambling authorities asked for more information. Officials have said it will probably take three months to process the license.
Singapore _ known for its ban on chewing gum sales and canings for crimes some countries would rule as minor _ strictly controls public speech and assembly though has become socially more liberal and allowed greater artistic freedom in recent years. The decision to allow casinos followed a rare national debate though the government's desired outcome was never in doubt.
The government expects Resorts World _ along with the expected May opening of the Marina Bay Sands casino resort _ to increase the country's gross domestic product growth by up to 1 percentage point, boost tourist arrivals and add 35,000 jobs.
With a well-educated population that speaks English, Chinese and Malay, Singapore is increasingly focusing on finance and tourism, said Irvin Seah, an economist with DBS Bank in Singapore.
"Services are really a green pasture going forward for Singapore," Seah said. "It's the area which we really want to fully exploit and it's where we have a comparative advantage in the region."
Manufacturing, which has long dominated the economy, has been slowly leaving the country as companies seek cheaper labor costs in regional neighbors such as China and Vietnam.
"Competitors are catching up very quickly," Seah said. "In some segments of the manufacturing sector, we are certainly fighting a losing battle."
Resorts World Sentosa, built by Malaysia's Genting Bhd for 6.6 billion Singapore dollars ($5 billion), opened 1,340 rooms in four hotels, including a Hard Rock hotel and a property designed by architect Michael Graves. Its 7,300-seat ballroom, one of Asia's largest, will host its first event at the end of this month.
A Universal Studios theme park is expected to open in the coming weeks on the sprawling 49-hectare complex on Sentosa, an island a quarter of a mile off Singapore's coast. No firm date has been set, said Genting chairman Lim Kok Thay, contradicting reports it would open next week.
The resort's casino, the city-state's first, is expected to open in March after Genting's application for a license was delayed to December from October when gambling authorities asked for more information. Officials have said it will probably take three months to process the license.
Singapore _ known for its ban on chewing gum sales and canings for crimes some countries would rule as minor _ strictly controls public speech and assembly though has become socially more liberal and allowed greater artistic freedom in recent years. The decision to allow casinos followed a rare national debate though the government's desired outcome was never in doubt.
The government expects Resorts World _ along with the expected May opening of the Marina Bay Sands casino resort _ to increase the country's gross domestic product growth by up to 1 percentage point, boost tourist arrivals and add 35,000 jobs.
With a well-educated population that speaks English, Chinese and Malay, Singapore is increasingly focusing on finance and tourism, said Irvin Seah, an economist with DBS Bank in Singapore.
"Services are really a green pasture going forward for Singapore," Seah said. "It's the area which we really want to fully exploit and it's where we have a comparative advantage in the region."
Manufacturing, which has long dominated the economy, has been slowly leaving the country as companies seek cheaper labor costs in regional neighbors such as China and Vietnam.
"Competitors are catching up very quickly," Seah said. "In some segments of the manufacturing sector, we are certainly fighting a losing battle."
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Mr Yang Thein Aung –Conference Coordinator – The Sentosa Resort&Spa
Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management
Industrial Attachment: One Degree 15 Marina Club
The modules that Nanyang offered have greatly helped me in what I am doing right now. The module Tourism Operations Management has helped me to manage flight details and also provide me the skills of arranging and coordinating meetings and banquets. The lecturers also taught us how to handle the situations when dealing with difficult customers. As part of my job is to liaise with customers, I am glad Nanyang actually imparted that most important skill to me. When it was time for the industrial attachment, the lecturers would find out what we would like to work as. I have always wanted to work as a frontline officer because I enjoy communicating with the guests from all over the world. As such, Nanyang lecturers tried their best to fulfill our requirements. I am really grateful to them as I know some schools do not do that for the students. Nanyang has given me an opportunity to open my insight and fulfill my dreams. Thank you Nanyang!
Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality Management
Industrial Attachment: One Degree 15 Marina Club
The modules that Nanyang offered have greatly helped me in what I am doing right now. The module Tourism Operations Management has helped me to manage flight details and also provide me the skills of arranging and coordinating meetings and banquets. The lecturers also taught us how to handle the situations when dealing with difficult customers. As part of my job is to liaise with customers, I am glad Nanyang actually imparted that most important skill to me. When it was time for the industrial attachment, the lecturers would find out what we would like to work as. I have always wanted to work as a frontline officer because I enjoy communicating with the guests from all over the world. As such, Nanyang lecturers tried their best to fulfill our requirements. I am really grateful to them as I know some schools do not do that for the students. Nanyang has given me an opportunity to open my insight and fulfill my dreams. Thank you Nanyang!
Good news from Channel New Asia
First retail space at Resorts World Sentosa to open on Jan 20
Channel NewsAsia - Tuesday, January 19
First retail space at Resorts World Sentosa to open on Jan 20
SINGAPORE: Visitors to Resorts World Sentosa will be able to shop there when the first of its retail belt opens in time, for its soft launch on Wednesday.
The shopping strip makes up about 20 per cent of the entire retail space at the integrated resort.
As for its casino and the Universal Studio theme park, the company is hoping to open both in time for the Lunar New Year.
Last minute touches are being made to greet guests when Singapore’s first integrated resort opens. With just four of its six hotels and 10 restaurants opened, there is already strong interest from both locals and tourists.
Andrew Hickey, vice president (Rooms), Resorts World Sentosa said: "We had over 5,000 room nights booked in the first days of our reservations centre opening. (There is a) strong local demand from the overseas travel trade.
"Chinese New Year is already booked out. Indicators are very very strong. Weekends are filling up obviously".
Resorts World has said it is targeting 12 to 13 million visitors each year, boosting Singapore’s visitor arrival numbers.
The Singapore Tourism Board has said that it hopes the two Integrated Resorts, including the one at Marina Bay Sands, will help double visitorship figures to 17 million by 2015.
Also making its grand opening on Wednesday is the Galleria — where retail staff have been put through the paces. This retail belt links the Festive Hotel, the casino entrance and Hotel Michael.
Noel Hawkes, vice president, Resort Operations, Resorts World Sentosa said: "We also have a Swarovski, we have a beauty hall and we have a Swiss shop gallery. We have some very nice new to market brands like Canali, which will open its first retail shop in Singapore as well as a very famous brand from Canada called Damiani, which is a very high—end jewellery shop."
"Apart from these high—end jewellery (shops), we also have our very famous Chihuly gallery. This is going to be very exciting. We have about S$6 million worth of his very beautiful art works and his chandeliers in the casino as well as the Crockfords Tower, and now guests will be able to go and buy smaller pieces which are absolutely fabulous or some of his wonderful paintings.
"We have also got a Michael Graves gallery — first in the world in fact — and Michael Graves is the one who designed this entire project. He will have his own gallery selling stuff that he designed himself like the whistling teapot."
The completed retail stretch at Resorts World Sentosa is about 300 metres long, with over 20 high—end brands including the highly anticipated Victoria’s Secret boutique.
Mr Hawkes said: "A lot of the retail here is geared towards our casino customers, (and) impulse buying.
"So that is why we have targeted some of the products. There are very high—end retail, expensive watches, diamonds, jewellery."
About 70 per cent of the resort’s entire retail space is expected to be ready by next month.
"Especially if you take into consideration our Universal Studios, which is huge. We have got about 16 shops over there and we have something for absolutely everybody within our retail offerings in Universal Studios," added Mr Hawkes.
But the clincher for most people would be the opening of the theme park and casino.
Ron Lim, general manager, Crossroad Tours & Travel said: "I already got a group of 12 persons coming from Taiwan into Resorts World. From what we see, it is supposed to be good.
"Furthermore, Casino is tied up with a theme park so when the adults play at the casino they will still go to the theme park".
Wendy Leong, general manager, City Tours said: "The main concern right now is when Universal Studio is going to be opened, so that we will be able to package it together including all the hotel stay as well."
Resorts World is currently awaiting licensing approvals from authorities for both the casino and theme park. And when Universal Studios opens, 20 out of its 24 rides will be fully operational.
Over the next two years, visitors can expect phase two of Resorts World Sentosa to be completed. These include two more hotels and the marine life park, the world’s largest oceanarium.
Channel NewsAsia - Tuesday, January 19
First retail space at Resorts World Sentosa to open on Jan 20
SINGAPORE: Visitors to Resorts World Sentosa will be able to shop there when the first of its retail belt opens in time, for its soft launch on Wednesday.
The shopping strip makes up about 20 per cent of the entire retail space at the integrated resort.
As for its casino and the Universal Studio theme park, the company is hoping to open both in time for the Lunar New Year.
Last minute touches are being made to greet guests when Singapore’s first integrated resort opens. With just four of its six hotels and 10 restaurants opened, there is already strong interest from both locals and tourists.
Andrew Hickey, vice president (Rooms), Resorts World Sentosa said: "We had over 5,000 room nights booked in the first days of our reservations centre opening. (There is a) strong local demand from the overseas travel trade.
"Chinese New Year is already booked out. Indicators are very very strong. Weekends are filling up obviously".
Resorts World has said it is targeting 12 to 13 million visitors each year, boosting Singapore’s visitor arrival numbers.
The Singapore Tourism Board has said that it hopes the two Integrated Resorts, including the one at Marina Bay Sands, will help double visitorship figures to 17 million by 2015.
Also making its grand opening on Wednesday is the Galleria — where retail staff have been put through the paces. This retail belt links the Festive Hotel, the casino entrance and Hotel Michael.
Noel Hawkes, vice president, Resort Operations, Resorts World Sentosa said: "We also have a Swarovski, we have a beauty hall and we have a Swiss shop gallery. We have some very nice new to market brands like Canali, which will open its first retail shop in Singapore as well as a very famous brand from Canada called Damiani, which is a very high—end jewellery shop."
"Apart from these high—end jewellery (shops), we also have our very famous Chihuly gallery. This is going to be very exciting. We have about S$6 million worth of his very beautiful art works and his chandeliers in the casino as well as the Crockfords Tower, and now guests will be able to go and buy smaller pieces which are absolutely fabulous or some of his wonderful paintings.
"We have also got a Michael Graves gallery — first in the world in fact — and Michael Graves is the one who designed this entire project. He will have his own gallery selling stuff that he designed himself like the whistling teapot."
The completed retail stretch at Resorts World Sentosa is about 300 metres long, with over 20 high—end brands including the highly anticipated Victoria’s Secret boutique.
Mr Hawkes said: "A lot of the retail here is geared towards our casino customers, (and) impulse buying.
"So that is why we have targeted some of the products. There are very high—end retail, expensive watches, diamonds, jewellery."
About 70 per cent of the resort’s entire retail space is expected to be ready by next month.
"Especially if you take into consideration our Universal Studios, which is huge. We have got about 16 shops over there and we have something for absolutely everybody within our retail offerings in Universal Studios," added Mr Hawkes.
But the clincher for most people would be the opening of the theme park and casino.
Ron Lim, general manager, Crossroad Tours & Travel said: "I already got a group of 12 persons coming from Taiwan into Resorts World. From what we see, it is supposed to be good.
"Furthermore, Casino is tied up with a theme park so when the adults play at the casino they will still go to the theme park".
Wendy Leong, general manager, City Tours said: "The main concern right now is when Universal Studio is going to be opened, so that we will be able to package it together including all the hotel stay as well."
Resorts World is currently awaiting licensing approvals from authorities for both the casino and theme park. And when Universal Studios opens, 20 out of its 24 rides will be fully operational.
Over the next two years, visitors can expect phase two of Resorts World Sentosa to be completed. These include two more hotels and the marine life park, the world’s largest oceanarium.
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