Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: A view to die for!!!

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark: A view to die for!!!
By Angela Lim – June 21st, 2010




After months of anticipation, the “surfboard” sitting atop the Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is ready to be unveiled to the public this Thursday.

Yahoo! Singapore got an early sneak peek at what is officially known as the SkyPark, and all I’ve got to say is — prepare to be wowed.

Standing at a dizzying 200m, the S$150 million SkyPark is a spacious lifestyle venue the size of two football fields or 10 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Designed like a tropical resort, the Skypark features stone walkways lined with timber decks and palm trees surrounding the infinity pool and jacuzzi tubs.

The public observation deck offers a glorious view of both the city skyline and the Marina Bay seafront. Check out the spectacular panoramic view from the top.

Enhancing the stunning landscape is the 150m infinity pool – the highest swimming pool in the country – that fittingly seems to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Hotel guests get to splash in and enjoy a luxurious dip more than 50 storeys above ground.

The up-and-coming rooftop hangout also houses a variety of restaurants and bars perfect for soaking in the breathtaking view. At $20, $14 and $17 for adult, child and senior citizen admissions respectively, the SkyPark costs less than the Singapore Flyer (S$29.50 for adult admission), which it overlooks.

For those who have been watching the progress of the SkyPark’s construction, the ”surfboard” is actually curved like a boomerang when one is viewing it from one end to another. Rimmed by 2m-high glass panels,visitors can get right up to the edge of the observation deck jutting out over the hotel towers for a spine-tingling view.





As part of its opening celebration this Wednesday, MBS is hosting the first-ever World Championship Climb in which 21 professional climbers will scale the facade of the three interlinked 55-storey hotel towers to the SkyPark on the 57th floor.

Hot favourite Team Commonwealth climber, Tim Emmett, 36, tells Yahoo! Singapore that this competition is a “first ever” for him and that MBS is the tallest building he’s scaled so far.

“It is a beautiful piece of architecture with the infinity pools and an incredible view. Can’t wait to take a splash after I’m done with the climb!” he gushes.

22-year-old student Marcus Chan tells Yahoo! Singapore, “The S$20 admission is slightly pricey but I’m curious to find out if the view from up there is really that amazing.”

MBS CEO Thomas Arasi sums up the top-of-the-world experience best by saying, “It is like a stage set before the city and the waterfront…When you are up at the Skypark, you will feel as if you are sitting on a cloud overlooking everything around you.”

Britain's Jobless: 2.47m Now Out Of Work

Unemployment increased by over 20,000 between February and April, as did the number of people classed as "economically inactive", official figures have shown.

Some 2.47 million people are now out of work in the UK after a rise of 23,000 - giving a jobless rate of 7.9%.

However, the number of people claiming jobseekers' allowance last month fell by 30,900 to 1.48 million, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Long-term and youth unemployment both increased, but the most striking figure was a 29,000 rise in the number of people classed as economically inactive.

That took the total to 8.19 million, which is some 21.5% of the working age population.

Employment Minister Chris Grayling told Sky News the figures underlined the challenge faced by the new Government.

"The reality is we have stubbornly high levels of unemployment, with a small increase in the last quarter," he said.

"Our goal is to get employment as low as we possibly can and we will only get that if we can get a vibrant and dynamic private sector creating jobs again."

Mr Grayling also defended the coalition's planned spending cuts, which a leading economist predicted would see 500,000 jobs lost.

The minister said reducing the deficit was a necessary step in generating wealth and enterprise.

"The Government can't provide an endless source of money to create jobs in this country," he said.

However, the shadow work and pensions secretary Yvette Cooper told Sky News the coalition appeared to have accepted unemployment was a price worth paying.

She added it was "terrible and shocking" that 90,000 planned jobs would disappear as a result of scrapping grants for the Future Jobs Fund.

"They want to make cuts now because they think it is more important to do that than support jobs," she said.

"I think that's the wrong approach and will cost us more in the long-term. If you support jobs, you save money in benefits payments."

The latest ONS figures also showed public sector employment fell by 7,000 in March to 6.09 million, while employees in private firms increased by 12,000 to 22.78 million.

Average pay increased by 4.2% in the year to April, down by 0.1% from the previous month.

Singapore GP reports a strong start to hospitality sales

Singapore GP reports a strong start to hospitality sales
•67% of available hospitality passes taken up
•Inventory increased by 5%
24 May 2010














Singapore, 24 May 2010 - Hospitality sales for the 2010 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX tickets have had a strong start. With more than four months still to go before the race, 67% of the hospitality inventory has already been taken up.
The hospitality inventory consists of Paddock Club, Sky, Club and Green Room passes situated at optimal viewing locations around the circuit park.
Outside of the Paddock Club, the most popular facilities have been the Pit Straight, Turn 1 Sky Suites and Turn 2 Club Suites. The Green Room, first introduced last year at Turn 3, was extended to new locations at Turn 1 and Turn 2 for 2010, and remains a popular choice. The Green Room at Turn 2 is already fully sold out.




“Each year we refine and improve the hospitality experience based on customer research and feedback. For 2010, we introduced a range of product enhancements by revising menus, offering more options for customisation, upgrading facilities and providing a dedicated entertainment line-up for hospitality guests," said Colin Syn, Deputy Chairman of Singapore GP Pte Ltd.
To meet the strong demand, race promoter Singapore GP will be increasing the available hospitality inventory by 5% from the previously announced 10,000 tickets to 10,500 tickets per day.



“It is great to see such a large number of clients who joined us in 2008 but missed last year’s race back again in 2010. Feedback on the numerous improvements made to all the hospitality offerings have been overwhelmingly positive and will contribute to an even more memorable guest experience,” said Darren Chen, Director of Corporate Sales, Singapore GP.
To ensure that guests continue to enjoy top-notch hospitality service, Singapore GP is also increasing the number of Suite Ambassadors hired this year. The elite crew, which are specially trained for the event, have had rave reviews over the last two years.
Of last year’s guests 96% commented that the overall service rendered at the hospitality suites was excellent, with many clients asking for the same Suite Ambassadors to return to their suites this year.
The three-day hospitality passes for the 2010 FORMULA 1 SINGTEL SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX are priced from S$3,500 for the Green Room to S$8,000 for the Formula One Paddock Club™ ticket.

Singapore tops 'MOST COMPETITIVE NATIONS’ list

Singapore tops 'MOST COMPETITIVE NATIONS’ list
By Angela Lim – May 21st, 2010

It’s official — Singapore is now the world’s most competitive nation.

In the latest edition of the World Competitiveness Yearbook released by the Lausanne-based Institute for Management Development (IMD), Singapore dethroned the United States from its 16-year reign at the top. Hong Kong comes in a close second after the Lion City.

The yearbook is widely regarded to be the most updated and comprehensive ranking of the management of governments, businesses, people and infrastructure in industrialised and emerging nations. 58 key countries are assessed based on 320 different criteria including economic performance, government and business efficiency, exports, level of corruption and infrastructure.

Under business efficiency, it listed key criteria such as productivity, labour market, finance, management practices as well as attitudes and values.

Switzerland, Australia, Sweden, Canada, Taiwan, Norway and Malaysia make up the Top 10 http://www.imd.ch/research/publications/wcy/upload/scoreboard.pdf.

Stephane Garelli, Director of IMD’s World Competitiveness Centre, observed that while Asian nations were as badly-hit as others by the financial crisis, they had the ability to pull themselves out of recession much faster.

He tells TIME, “Singapore and Hong Kong suffered during the recession, but demonstrated a striking ability to rebound.”

Compared with the Western world, both countries are reaping the benefits of strong expansion in the surrounding Asian region, he adds.

He points out that during the first quarter of 2010, Singapore’s economy grew 13.1% and China’s 11.9%, while Europe struggled with a projected growth of only 1% this year.

As the largest industrialised nations like Japan, Germany and Great Britain continue to be saddled by debt, emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, India and China are becoming more robust.

“For the first time, the emerging economies seem to create an economic bloc, which becomes increasingly self-sufficient and encompasses markets with a growing middle class, raw materials, money and global brands,” Garelli says.

Source : http://sg.yfittopostblog.com/2010/05/21/singapore-tops-most-competitive-nations-list/

Tourism contributes some 4% to Singapore’s GDP and is set to grow, boosted by a SGD 2 billion Tourism Development Fund.

Tourism contributes some 4% to Singapore’s GDP and is set to grow, boosted by a SGD 2 billion Tourism Development Fund.

Singapore’s reputation for shopping and dining is world-renowned and in recent years, our buffet of choices to tourists has both widened in scope and deepened in sophistication. Today, Singapore is well-regarded internationally as an all-round leisure and business destination.

The amazing two Integrated Resorts (IRs) has opened in 2010, they will boost tourism figures exponentially, with their engaging combination of convention and exhibition facilities, themed attractions, entertainment venues, recreation facilities, and hotel and retail mix. Marina Bay Sands will be an iconic centrepiece of the Marina Bay area when completed. With a development investment of S$3.84 billion by Las Vegas Sands, it will be one of the most expensive and lavish casinos in the world. Resorts World at Sentosa by consortium Genting International and Star Cruises will embrace a more family-encompassing entertainment theme, featuring the first Universal Studios in Southeast Asia, the world’s largest Marine Life Park and a destination spa.

Even before the opening of the IRs, other recent tourist magnets have created buzz and international attention, including the Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix night race and the Singapore Flyer.

Major employers in the tourism and hospitality industry include hotels, attractions, Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhitbitions (MICE) sector, travel companies, retail establishments and food and beverage enterprises.

Careers in Tourism & Hospitality

Industry News


Tourism & Hospitality Industry Overview
Tourism contributes some 4% to Singapore’s GDP and employs about 150,000 people. Visitor arrivals to Singapore reached 9.7 million in 2009, with tourism receipts from January to December 2009 reaching $12.5 billion.

Exciting Developments
The opening of the two Integrated Resorts (IRs) Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands in 2010 is expected to boost tourism figures exponentially, with their convention and exhibition facilities, themed attractions, entertainment venues, recreation facilities, as well as hotel and retail mix. Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix night race and the Singapore Flyer have also created buzz and attracted international attention.

Career Opportunities
Major employers in the tourism and hospitality industry include hotels, attractions, the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, travel companies, retail establishments, food and beverage enterprises and the two Integrated Resorts.

The tourism industry accepts committed and passionate individuals from all disciplines of study. Fresh entrants as well as mid-career professionals are welcome.


Attractions
Singapore’s attractions sector is bustling with popular tourist sites such as Universal Studios, the Singapore Flyer, the Zoo and the Night Safari.


Meetings , Incentive Travel, Conventions & Exhibition (MICE)
MICE activities play a significant role in strengthening Singapore’s positions as a tourism centre in Asia. Currently, more than 6,000 MICE events are held in Singapore annually.







Hotels & Accomodation
The hotels and accommodations sector has been performing well consistently. Upcoming developments and investments point to a continued, positive outlook for the sector in the mid to long term.




Integrated Resorts
Together, the two Integrated Resorts are expected to employ 20,000 directly, with another 30,000 jobs created throughout the economy.


About Singapore
In the heart of Asia lies Singapore – a bustling, world-class city state that has made waves around the world for its business excellence, connectivity to the world and its innovation.

Singapore has been consistently acknowledged as a global business hub – one that features developed infrastructure, political stability, open business policies, a skilled workforce, the use of English as the main working language and respect for intellectual properly rights. To date, more than 7,000 multinational companies have set up bases in Singapore, next to 100,000 small and medium enterprises. Business owners all over the world regard Singapore as an ideal location to grow their businesses, with many of them using the country as a springboard to tap into other emerging markets in Asia.

Besides being ranked by Doing Business 2009 (an annual report by the World bank Group which compares business regulations in 181 countries) as the world’s easiest place to do business, Singapore has, among its many accolades, the top ranking in the 2008-2009 Global Competitiveness Report by the World Economic Forum as being the most competitive economy in Asia, and was also ranked by the Worldwide Quality of Living Index 2007 (by Mercer Human Resource Consulting) as the top Asian country for its quality of life.

Global talent accounts for about 30% of the workforce, attracted by open recruitment policies, low personal taxation, a meritocratic society that embraces diversity, and a high quality of life in a cosmopolitan environment.

Steady Recovery for 2010

Apr 29, 2010 / Straits Times

ECONOMISTS looking for reasons to upgrade their Singapore growth forecasts into double-digit territory were presented with plenty yesterday.
A review by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) found that the economy's recovery from the global recession has been stronger than rebounds from previous downturns.
In fact, the economy has rallied so sharply that it is now about 2.8 per cent above its previous peak in the first quarter of 2008, the MAS said in its twice-yearly macroeconomic review yesterday.
And with the recovery broadening and global demand returning, the economy is likely to continue on a 'firm recovery path' for the rest of the year.
This is likely to raise hopes of higher economic growth than the Government's official forecast of 7 per cent to
9 per cent this year. Economists have suggested that even double-digit growth is not out of the question, as long as the economy stays on the recovery path in the coming months.

Singapore Second Casino Opens on 27th Apr 2010

AFP - Tuesday, April 27
SINGAPORE, April 26, 2010 (AFP) – Singapore throws open the doors of its second casino Tuesday as part of a 5.5 billion US dollar complex built by US gaming giant Las Vegas Sands.
Marina Bay Sands, located next to the financial district, will open at the locally auspicious time of 3:18 pm (0718 GMT). The number eight sounds like the word for prosperity in Chinese.
Singapore gave the green light for casino gambling in 2005, setting off a flurry of construction that went ahead despite the city-state slipping into recession in 2008 because of the global financial crisis.
Its first casino, the 4.4 billion US-dollar Resorts World Sentosa, opened for business on February 14.
Marina Bay Sands was originally set to open at the end of 2009 but faced repeated delays caused by a number of factors, including material and labour shortages and financial problems due to the latest global economic downturn.
Tuesday's opening includes the casino and 963 out of 2,560 hotel rooms, a portion of the shopping mall, some restaurants, an exhibition centre and the events plaza.
The remaining hotel rooms and suites, a skypark and more shops will open on June 23, while a museum, theatres and other stores will start operations later in the year, the management said.
Officials hope the casinos will help Singapore achieve a target of attracting 17 million visitors a year generating over 21 billion US dollars by 2015, boosting the services sector and reducing the role of manufacturing in the economy.
Marina Bay Sands is designed to cater to the corporate and convention crowd while Resorts World is aimed at families.
Built by Malaysia's Genting Group, the Resorts World complex includes Southeast Asia's only Universal Studios movie theme park, hotels, restaurants and convention facilities.
Las Vegas Sands also has major operations in the Asian gaming haven of Macau.

Prive Restaurant Keppel Bay

Another Student Got S Pass(Skill Pass) at Prive Restaurant Keppel Bay~~~Good News

Good news - one of our students, Ms Sunayana Menon has recently got the S-Pass (Skill Pass) after she has completed her internship!
She's now working as Management Trainee at the stylish, upmarket Prive Restaurant Keppel Bay with a view for promotion after 3 months.
You may want to visit this restaurant when you next visit Singapore!


Prive – Marina at Keppel Bay (Singapore Restaurant Bar)







Prive, the latest restaurant bar to hit Singapore shore is located at Keppel Bay of the small Keppel Island, which is a not far away from Sentosa. It has ingeniously integrated an eatery – Prive the Restaurant, an outdoor watering hole – Prive Gastrobar and even a cafe called Prive Bakery Cafe in this waterfront food and beverage entertainment outlet.
Prive the Restaurant
A “New York style” Restaurant which can accommodate 88 people in chic and cozy seating. The menu developed by Prive’s executive chef – Tony Bilson, consists of a selection of roasts, steaks, seafood platters, risottos, pastas and etc.
Prive Gastrobar
Rested on a relaxed and outdoor setting, this waterfront ‘Gastrobar’ with lounge sofas to chill-in, will be distinguished by guest DJs, performers and light dining.
Prive Bakery Cafe
The Bakery Cafe serves fresh pies and bread, sandwiches, soups, salads, waffles, milk shakes, cakes and desserts.

Better job chances for fresh grads as economy improves

Channel NewsAsia - Thursday, April 15

SINGAPORE: Good news for graduates entering the workforce this year.
Industry players say their chances of landing a job have improved tremendously as companies ramp up hiring.
Last February, the economic downturn prompted Singapore Airlines to freeze cabin crew recruitment and introduce broad measures that included cutting capacity and grounding planes.
But now, the airline is hiring again, albeit in a limited manner.
According to recruitment agencies, this reflects the broader reality that things are looking up for fresh graduates.
"They are graduating at the right time as compared to last year, because last year was really very bad," said Joshua Yim, chief executive officer of Achieve Group.
"However, this year, we already got signs that things are very well, so I do forecast that there’ll be a lot of need for these fresh graduates, particularly in industries like banking, the lifestyle industry, hospitality because of the IR, and manufacturing as well."
Yim said that many companies are ramping up hiring by up to 50 per cent.
Salaries of fresh graduates are also starting to inch closer to the highs seen in 2007 and 2008.
There are further signs the job market is recovering in tandem with the economy.
The NUS Career Centre said there has been a 20— to 30—per—cent increase in the number of employers who signed up with it.
"We’re seeing an increasing trend of employers also sourcing directly from local talents here to run operations in Asia Pacific," said Corrine Ong, director of the National Universitys (NUS) Career Centre.
"Because our Singapore talents are also Asia—savvy, so they’ll be able to understand the local culture better and henceforth better able to serve the market."
Already, some final year students have benefited from the improved economy.
"I sent in about five to six resumes, (and) I actually had an internship," said Ian Choo, a final year student at NUS Science Faculty. "And through the internship, which I found from NUS Career Centre, I managed to secure a job."
Said Nikki Yeo, a final year Arts & Social Sciences student from NUS: "I’ve sent four resumes so far and all of them have gotten back to me and I’ve gotten interviews from three of them so far, and there’s one more interview in May."
However, despite the rosy outlook, competition for jobs is likely to remain fierce, as more than 10,000 students from the three universities complete their final—year examinations in the next few weeks.
— CNA/yb

Singapore's GDP soars 32 percent in first quarter

ALEX KENNEDY,Associated Press Writer - Wednesday, April 14
SINGAPORE – Singapore's economy soared in the first three months of 2010, bouncing back from a contraction the previous quarter as manufacturing more than doubled.
Gross domestic product grew an annualized, seasonally adjusted 32.1 percent in the first quarter, led by a 139 percent jump in industrial production, the Trade and Industry Ministry said Wednesday.
The economy grew 13.1 percent in the first quarter from the same period a year ago, and the government boosted its 2010 GDP forecast to between 7 percent and 9 percent from between 4.5 percent and 6.5 percent, the ministry said.
Singapore's strong GDP numbers suggest Asia has emerged from last year's recession as a leading driver of global economic growth. The city-state was the first Asian country to report first quarter GDP results, while China is scheduled to do so Thursday.
"The recovery of the Singapore economy has been stronger than expected and more entrenched since the beginning of this year," the central bank said. "Looking ahead, domestic economic activity is likely to be sustained at a relatively high level."
The bank, known as the Monetary Authority of Singapore, said Wednesday that it has shifted its exchange rate policy from a 0 percent appreciation of the Singapore dollar to a "modest and gradual" appreciation in a bid to dampen inflation.
The government also raised its inflation forecast for this year by 0.5 percentage points to between 2.5 percent and 3.5 percent.
"Inflationary pressures are likely to pick up, driven by rising global commodity prices," the bank said.

Exceptionally strong growth ahead for Singapore, and stronger dollar

Singapore: Exceptionally strong growth was seen in the first quarter of 2010 and the Trade and Industry Ministry (MTI) says it now expects Singapore’s economy to grow by 7.0 to 9.0% during the current year.
The revision upwards from an earlier 4.5—6.5% GDP growth is in view of the "exceptionally strong growth for the Singapore economy" in the first quarter and the overall improved outlook for external economies for the rest of 2010, MTI said in its news release on Wednesday.
In view of the rebound of the Singapore economy and expected firm recovery with a more favourable global economic outlook the MAS will re—centre the exchange rate policy band for the Singapore dollar at the prevailing level and shift the policy band from zero percent appreciation to a modest and gradual appreciation.
The decision to allow for a stronger dollar was influenced by the tightening of the labour market with the seasonally adjusted resident unemployment rate falling from 5% in September 2009 to around its pre—crisis rate of 3% in December, and an expected pick—up of wages this year.
Overall, Singapore should see inflation in 2010 at between 2.5% and 3.5%, which is slightly higher than the 2—3% forecast earlier.
Experts say the move to move by MAS indicates that the view that domestic inflation is the concern now that economic growth has settled in.

Recommendation Letter from Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Singapore

NIM and its students are highly regarded in the industry. As you are aware NIM has tie ups with all the leading hotels in Singapore, and a recent letter from the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, highlights our unrivalled reputation as the leading hospitality school in Singapore, and that our students will always be considered for full time positions, due to their high standards, as and when they arise.

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.

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 17

SINGAPORE, 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

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.

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.

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.

Our next intake date for Tourism and Hospitality Management is 12th April 2010.

Testimonial Video of Nyan Lin Tun

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.

Happy Chinese New Year!

Testimonial from Arun Deep

Arun Deep
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.

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.

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.

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!

NIM=WIN

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.

Marina Bay Sands starts training casino dealers

Channel 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

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."

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!

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.