Airbnb Experiences and Singapore Tourism Board

Airbnb Experiences and Singapore Tourism Board

Airbnb Experiences and Singapore Tourism Board (STB) today unveiled a storytelling campaign featuring three generations of women in one of Hollywood's most well-known families – Jada Pinkett Smith, her daughter Willow Smith and mother Adrienne 'Gammy' Banfield-Norris. The series of stories set in Singapore celebrate the beauty and excitement of connecting with different cultures and people around the world.

At the heart of the campaign is a short film featuring Jada, Willow and Gammy learning about Singapore's rich heritage and experiencing the best the country has to offer, including through Airbnb Experiences. In a unique meeting of cultures, the trio meets one of Singapore's top Experiences Hosts and inter-generational family, One Kind House, led by 76-year-old matriarch Mummy Soh. The trio's journey of discovering new cultures, and in doing so, rediscovering themselves and each other, is evocatively captured in the film.

The video, filmed in January 2020, follows the Sohs and Smiths as they explore a local herb garden and cook a classic Singaporean meal of vegetable curry and rice together, over candid and heartfelt conversations about kindness, diversity, and the quintessentially Singaporean kampong (community) spirit. Jada, Willow and Gammy also explore the island's most iconic precincts and landmarks, including Little India, Kampong Gelam, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, and Gardens by the Bay, guided by other top Airbnb Experiences hosts.

The campaign is part of an ongoing Memorandum of Understanding between Singapore Tourism Board and Airbnb Experiences to inspire future travel to Singapore. The first major international destination marketing campaign launched between Singapore Tourism Board and Airbnb Experiences, it represents a key step in strengthening Singapore as a top-of-mind destination and urging travelers to reimagine travel experiences before international borders reopen.

The partnership between Singapore Tourism Board and Airbnb Experiences aims to co-promote and grow a range of Experiences hosted by passionate locals. These experiences will showcase everyday Singaporeans and their unique passions, and create more possibilities for visitors who want to discover different sides of Singapore. Airbnb Experiences allow Singaporeans to turn their passions into opportunities to earn extra income, while promoting local culture and helping to grow tourism that benefits locals and communities. Last October, both parties launched

The partnership also complements Singapore Tourism Board's SingapoReimagine initiative, which includes international marketing campaigns to showcase how Singapore has continued to refresh, rejuvenate and reinvent itself as a safe, innovative and vibrant destination for business and leisure.

Christine Chang, Global Head of Supply, Airbnb Experiences, said: "We know travelers are always seeking unique and authentic things to do when they hit the road - and Airbnb Experiences help them do just that. We are delighted to partner with Singapore Tourism Board, Jada, Willow and Gammy to inspire travelers to explore one of the world's most vibrant destinations. We look forward to continuing to unlock exciting and unique ways to discover Singapore along with its people and passions, whether you're a first-time visitor or call this city home."

Singapore Tourism Board Chief Executive Keith Tan shared, "Our partnership with Airbnb Experiences and the Smith Family dives deep into unique and fascinating aspects of Singapore which no other city can offer. The values that the Smiths believe in – forging human connections through travel, and growing by experiencing different cultures – support Singapore's Passion Made Possible brand, which taps on the voices of everyday Singaporeans to showcase how special Singapore is. We look forward to welcoming visitors soon, and helping them to experience a city that is always on the move, yet deeply rooted to its values and culture."

With Airbnb Experiences, visitors can look forward to unprecedented access to local communities and interests through unique activities run by Hosts across over 1,000 destinations around the world.

About AirbnbAirbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 900 million guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer one-of-a-kind stays and unique Experiences that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.

About the Singapore Tourism BoardThe Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the lead development agency for tourism, one of Singapore's key economic sectors. Together with industry partners and the community, we shape a dynamic Singapore tourism landscape. We bring the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions.

Singapore Permits Switzerland Australia Travel

Singapore Permits Switzerland Australia Travel

Singapore has announced an expansion of quarantine-free travel lane (VTL) to Australia and Switzerland. .Due to previous border restrictions, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore reported that two-way travel was only available to fully vaccinate Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate families in Australia (CAAS). On its part, Australia has also stated that in the future, it intends to reopen its borders to additional visitors. However, prior to departing for Singapore, travelers in the vaccinated travel lane scheme would be required to spend 14 days in one or more of the VTL countries. They must also submit to two polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests - one prior to departure and one upon arrival at Changi Airport - and fly into Singapore only on designated flights.

With the exception of South Korea, unvaccinated children aged 12 and under are permitted to travel under the scheme if accompanied by a travel companion who meets the requirements. Singapore has now announced the establishment of vaccinated travel lanes in 13 countries. According to CAAS, the scheme's successful implementation has given the organization the "experience and confidence" to expand it to additional countries. As of Monday, more than 15,000 travelers had been issued passes under the vaccinated travel lane scheme, with approximately 5,000 already entering Singapore.

According to CAAS, the daily quota for those entering Singapore under the scheme will be increased from 3,000 to 4,000 as a result of the scheme's expansion to Australia and Switzerland. According to CAAS, both Australia and Switzerland fall under Category II of the Ministry of Health's border measures, with COVID-19 incidence rates comparable to or lower than those in Singapore and other countries that participate in the vaccinated travel lane scheme. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison stated last week that Singapore and Australia were nearing the conclusion of negotiations to establish a travel agreement, with an agreement probably expected within the next week.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the program initially targets immunized students and business travelers before expanding to tourists. Australia is one of Singapore's top ten markets for annual passenger arrivals at Changi Airport, accounting for approximately 4% of total arrivals this year, according to CAAS. It stated that over 50,000 Singaporeans call Australia home, while approximately 25,000 Australians call Singapore home. Mr. Morrison's comments that Australia will reopen to more Singaporean travelers prompted CAAS to respond that more information would be released later. Switzerland is one of Singapore's top trading and investment partners, according to CAAS, with approximately 3,000 Swiss expatriates in the city-state.

Further, all Singaporeans are allowed to enter Switzerland and are not required to self-quarantine upon arrival. Singapore opened the first vaccinated travel lanes for Brunei and Germany. It was later extended to Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Beginning November 2021, a vaccinated travel lane would be available between the United States and South Korea. S Iswaran, Minister of Transport, told reporters recently that despite the announcement of 13 vaccinated travel lanes thus far, this represents only a fraction of the 80 countries Changi Airport served prior to the pandemic. "We need to gradually restore safe two-way quarantine-free travel with additional regions in an attempt to rebuild our aviation hub," he said. "We are discussing with other partners, including our regional neighbors, about safe reopening and close connectivity re-establishment," Mr. Iswaran said, adding that Singapore hopes to conclude additional such discussions soon. When asked if any conditions had been established to allow students and eventually all travelers to fly from Singapore to Australia, Mr. Iswaran stated that no "specific threshold number" was established based on infection numbers or other factors.

According to the official, such plans must be developed in light of both Singapore's and its partner countries' developments. Mr. Iswaran was also questioned about the wisdom of expanding the vaccinated travel lane scheme further in light of the current COVID-19 situation. He responded by stating that part of acclimating to the coronavirus was considering how Singapore would open its borders. The Transport Minister cited traveler protections such as vaccination and testing requirements, noting that destinations served by vaccinated travel lanes were "relatively safer." Mr. Iswaran stated that the travel restrictions were eased "prudently and cautiously," noting that many Singaporeans have relatives in these countries. "I believe it comes down to what can make a difference to Singaporeans' lives and livelihoods," he added.

Singapore sets India Reclassification as Safe

Singapore sets India Reclassification as Safe

It was great news to Singapore in August 2021 when Germany reclassified India as "a high (Covid) incidence area," moving it away from the previously designated "virus variant area," which was subject to more stringent travel restrictions. As a result of this decision, the ban on Indian travelers entering the country has been lifted. Tourists from India who have received all of their necessary vaccinations are also welcome in Spain. Accordingly, with effect from October 2021, Singapore swiftly lifted its travel ban on India, Myanmar, and Pakistan, and Sri Lanka citizens. People who have traveled to these countries within the previous 14 days were permitted entry into Singapore. The Indian Express reported earlier that the Singapore government had announced travel restrictions for India, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka passengers on Saturday. Passengers from these countries would be permitted to enter the country even if they had visited these countries within the preceding 14 days. This was a welcome change for visitors to the island-state, which had imposed some of the most stringent travel restrictions since the COVID-19 pandemic first broke out.

The Singapore government had previously stated that visitors from many countries would be subjected to Category IV border controls upon arrival. Under this category, which is the most stringent of Singapore's four restriction levels, only citizens and permanent residents of Singapore and visitors who had been granted permission to enter through the Death and Critical Illness Emergency Visits Lane were permitted entry. All other visitors, including those who had received prior entry approvals, were barred from entering the country. Aside from that, eligible travelers must submit to a Covid-19 RT-PCR test at least 48 hours before departure, another test upon arrival in Singapore, and a 10-day quarantine stays at a quarantine facility dedicated to the prevention of disease.

As noted, the Ministry of Health of Singapore, in a statement, had said those who had traveled to Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka would not be permitted to enter or transit through Singapore. "Our team has reviewed the Covid-19 situation in each of the countries listed above. We have determined that all travelers who have a 14-day travel history in Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka prior to departure for Singapore will only be permitted to enter and transit through Singapore beginning October 2021. Such travelers would be subject to Category IV border restrictions." The city-state has granted permission for people from many other countries where the Covid-19 situation is under control to enter the city-state. Those wishing to return to Singapore from India were required to spend at least 14 days in a third country before flying back to Singapore in order to avoid being barred.

In August, Singapore joined Germany and Brunei Darussalam to establish vaccinated travel lanes (VTL). VTLs are essentially extended travel corridors, but they are only available to travelers who have received all of their vaccinations. Currently, VTLs can be found in the following countries: Denmark, France; Italy; the Netherlands; Spain; Spain, the UK, Canada, the United States, and South Korea. Indian travelers are permitted to travel to a limited extent in a number of other countries. These countries include the United Arab Emirates, Germany, Spain, the Maldives, Turkey, and Thailand. According to the Turkish Embassy in New Delhi, travelers flying into Turkey from India will no longer be required to undergo the mandatory 14-day quarantine upon arrival if they have received all of the recommended vaccinations.

Travelers arriving from the following countries would be placed in Category III: Among the countries represented are S. Africa, Cambodia, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Rwanda, Malaysia, Mongolia, Qatar, Samoa, Seychelles, Tonga, UAE, and Vietnam. All travelers from Category III countries/regions (vaccinated or not) would be required to serve their 10-day SHN at their declared place of residence/accommodation, regardless of their vaccination status or travel history. An official of the Ministry of Health and Human Services said: "By default, they will not be assigned to any of the SHN facilities that are specifically designated for them. Returning residents should make arrangements for alternative housing prior to returning home if their current residences are unsuitable for them due to their SHN." The Ministry of Health has clarified that while Cat III travelers will serve their SHN at home, they should remain isolated in their room and avoid direct contact with vulnerable household members.

Best Holiday Destinations in Singapore

Best Holiday Destinations in Singapore

It can be tricky just trying to choose the best holiday destination in a diverse country like Singapore. Why, Singapore- the island city- is what many describe as bursting to the seams- the city has exciting activities, impressive attractions and lots of day trips ideal for the whole family. Well, this tiny island-state is truly a land of many contrasts- you can visit Little India and Chinatown; both of these are bustling shopping hubs in their right. They also reflect Singapore's incredible ethnic diversity.

Generally, it's crucial to note that, in response to Covid -19, Singapore has introduced and implemented strict entry and movement restrictions that apply to visitors from all countries- this includes passengers on transit. We sincerely hope that world governments will end these travel restrictions so that everyone can once again live their lives to the full- just as they did before. Similarly, we hope that all countries in the world will invest more resources in improving essential services like medical health. Yes, we hope that governments won't keep restricting people and travel; yes, we know this is not sustainable in the long term. Now, here are some of the best holiday destinations for any visitor to Singapore:

Universal Studios, Singapore

The Universal Studios Singapore is recognized as the first amusement park of a peculiar kind to operate in Southeast Asia. The park features over 20 unique attractions that come in themed zones. These include Ancient Egypt, Hollywood, the Lost World, the Far Far Away and Madagascar.

Visit Marina Bay

The famous Singapore Marina Bay offers a truly spectacular sight of the beautiful city. Marina Bay and the surrounding areas have undergone a remarkable transformation that fit the ";epic proportions"; description throughout the years. Think of the $5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands Complex, for example. This is really the focal point of Marina Bay. Why, most of the things visitors love to see can be found around this area. There are several great buildings and resorts. Some of these include the Casino, the Science Museum and other elegant shopping and dining options that befit a wonderful holiday. While visiting, try to arrive at Marina Bay before 8 pm; this is how to catch the hugely spectacular show- the light show; the show usually illuminates the water beautifully. You may also enjoy seeing other iconic landmarks that you probably knew only from postcard prints.

Gardens by the Bay

This is one huge futuristic park located in the Singapore bay area and has been awarded many architecture accolades. While here, you can visit the famous Supertree structures and enjoy an impressive garden skywalk. You might also enjoy the recreated chilly mountain climate in the surrounding sea-shell-shaped greenhouses. Here, you'll discover hundreds of trees and plants. Certainly, Gardens by the Bay is the perfect destination for children and adults in equal measure.

Raffles Hotel

The Raffles Hotel is a delightful colonial-style hotel that has a long history going back to 1887. It's one of the most important landmarks on the island. Among the Raffle hotel's famous guests included Queen Elizabeth II, Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Jackson. The hotel has 103 suites, 18 bars and restaurants and over 40 stores and boutiques. Do you want to enjoy the best sling in town? Visit the Raffles Hotel. The experts here have more than 100 years experience making slings.

Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer has been described as the world's largest observation wheel. The place offers a peculiar experience; the 150 diameter building is designed over a 3-story terminal structure. The wheel hurtles 165 metres high and can travel at about 0.21m per second. The building is actually taller than most buildings in a city like London. Yes, the Singapore Flyer offers visitors a fantastic panoramic view; things are entirely different during the day; they change considerably at night. You can see some famous city sights here, including Raffles Place, Empress Place, the Singapore River, the Padang, and Marina Bay in one sweep.

Sentosa

Another excellent destination point in Singapore is Sentosa. This is-essentially- a purpose-built island located some distance away from the southern tip of Singapore. The designers built Sentosa with one thing in mind: Leisure and enjoyment. There are several delightful collections of beaches, golf courses, theme parks, dining, shopping centres and many more. You can easily reach Sentosa by cable car or using the road. You can always access all the attractions offered here using the MRT in just 15 minutes, coming from downtown Singapore.