Tours and Excursions

Here you will find details of all planned tours and excursions during the conference period.

You can also download the full Accommodation, Tours and Excursions brochure.

If you wish to make a reservation, please complete the Tours and Excursions Form and return it to:
Pacific World Sinapore Pte Ltd Attention:
IBA tours and excursions
73 Bukit Timah Road,
#03-01 Rex House, Singapore 983
Tel: +65 6330 6832 or +65 6330 6859
Fax: +65 6336 2123
e-mail: joannachak@pacificworld.com or leekheng@pacificworld.com

Excursions

1 Cultural heritage

3.5 hoursS$68 per person, minimum 10 persons
S01 Sun 14 October 0900-1 30
M01 Mon 15 October 0900-1 30T01
Tue 16 October 0900-1 30
W01 Wed 17 October 0900-1 30
H01 Thu 18 October 0900-1 30

(Sequence of the excursion may be changed)

Discover the history, culture and lifestyle of multi-racial Singapore. We set off to discover Singapore’s heritage with the first stop at the European settlement along the Singapore River. Visit Sir Stamford Raffles’ landing site; see Parliament House, Victoria Theatre and Empress Place, all nineteenth-century structures which have been lovingly restored. Your guide will provide an insight into the significance of the Singapore River in the early days. Enjoy a leisurely bumboat ride down the Singapore River which was the lifeline of Singapore and is where our first immigrants eked out a meagre living, and saw Singapore transform from an obscure little fishing village to a world-renowned seaport. Experience the diversity and rich history as you browse the Chinatown Heritage Centre which houses a wealth of memories and untold stories of the past. Each level of the centre takes you to a different time in the history of Chinatown and allows you to trace the lives of our early settlers. Then we proceed to Little India, where the vibrant streets and hive of activity that permeates every nook and cranny of the area will dazzle you. The first Indian settlers arrived as assistants and soldiers with Sir Stamford Raffles back in the 1800s. Today, Little India is the focal point of the Indian community. Find yourself beckoned by the spice-scented streets as you stroll around the shophouses and discover an array of Indian silk, brassware and carvings.

2 Sentosa escapade (with lunch)

5 hours
S$166 per person minimum 10 persons

S0 Sun 14 October 0900-1400
T0 Tue 16 October 0900-1400
W0 Wed 17 October 0900-1400
H0 Thu 18 October 0900-1400

Sentosa is one of the most enchanting of Singapore’s southern islands. The island was known in Malay as Pulau Blakang Mati, which means ‘the island behind which lies death’, but renamed Sentosa, meaning ‘peace and tranquility’. Originally a fishing village, the island was a British military fortress until 1967 when it was handed back to the Singapore Government. Sentosa is today a holiday resort island where beach amenities and sightseeing opportunities are excellent. The cable car ride to Sentosa will allow you to view the spectacular Singapore skyline and the world’s busiest port from 00 feet above ground. On Sentosa, proceed to Fort Siloso, Singapore’s only preserved fort, which guarded the western approaches to the Singapore Harbour in the 1880s. Fort Siloso, along with two other forts in Sentosa was built to defend the coal stocks and harbour against hostile vessels. Later, it became a military camp during World War II. Next is a visit to the Sentosa Underwater World, Asia’s largest aquarium, where you will come face-to-face with over ,300 marine specimens. Last stop is the Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, Singapore’s first and only beachfront hotel. Enjoy lunch at Trapizza, a popular outdoor restaurant on Siloso Beach.

3 Jungle exposé – behind the scenes at the zoo

3.5 hours
S$197 per person, minimum 10 persons

T03 Tue 16 October 0900-1 30
H03 Thu 18 October 0900-1 30

Acclaimed as one of the most beautiful zoos in the world, this scenic ‘open’ zoo features many interesting animal exhibits. Among its highlights — the world’s largest social colony of orangutans from Borneo and Sumatra, and the Fragile Forest, an exciting and educational display of ecosystems and rainforest culture. Discover how we breed and maintain butterflies, scorpions, stick insects and other invertebrates for display at the breeding complex of the Fragile Forest. Your guide will take you on a journey to the Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia and enlighten you on the fascinating Ethiopian wildlife and culture. Watch a troop of over 50 hamadryas baboons interact and notice their striking human-like behaviour and expressions. You will even get a chance to feed the baboons. Then walk through the Konso and Amharic villages and gain an insight into the tribal lifestyles. Finally, walk through the Tropical Crops Plantation, which displays a range of cash crops including rubber, coffee, cocoa, nutmeg, pineapple, clove and many more. Learn how we use the various parts of these plants to spice up our food, produce clothes and for medicinal purposes.

4 Military history and wartime remembrance

3.5 hours
S$80 per person, minimum 10 persons

W04 Wed 17 October 0900-1 30
(Sequence of the excursion may be changed)

Sentosa is one of the most enchanting of Singapore’s southern islands. The island was known in Malay as Pulau Blakang Mati, which means ‘the island behind which lies death’, but renamed Sentosa, meaning ‘peace and tranquility’. Originally a fishing village, the island was a British military fortress until 1967 when it was handed back to the Singapore Government. On Sentosa is located Fort Siloso, built in the 1880s – a ‘onestop’ overview of Singapore’s World War II history. Fort Siloso is the only preserved British coastal fortification in Singapore. A recreation of life at the fort, presented through the use of archival documents and footage, life-sized figures of soldiers and simulated sound effects, provides a unique chance to look into Singapore’s colonial past. The next stop is the Changi Chapel and Museum. Changi Museum is dedicated to all those in Singapore, in particular the Changi area, during the dark years of World War II. The museum functions as an important educational institution and resource centre for the prisoners-of-war (POWs) and their families. The chapel is housed within the open-air courtyard of the new museum where many chapels were built during World War II. Today, it stands as a monument for those who kept their faith and dignity in the face of seemingly hopeless odds.

5/6 Insiders’ shopping tour – am/pm

3 hours
S$49 per person, Minimum 10 persons

S06 Sun 14 October 1330-1630
T05 Tue 16 October 1100-1400
H05 Thu 18 October 1100-1400

For a unique shopping experience, we head into the heartlands of Singapore where you will discover some of the best bargains and the places where most Singaporeans shop. The first stop will be at Holland Village; a small self-contained community located off Holland Road, which is a favourite haunt among expatriates, and hip Singaporeans. Trendy restaurants line the Lorong Mambong, while curio and handicraft shops co-exist peacefully with markets, hawker centres and old-fashioned cobblers. Finally you will take a coach ride to the newly-built town of Tampines. Tampines is a concept-plan town which aims to improve the quality of life by safeguarding housing, leisure, shopping and business.

7 Images of the East

3 hours
S$79 per person, Minimum 10 persons

T07 Tue 16 October 1400-1700
W07 Wed 17 October 1400-1700
H07 Thu 18 October 1400-1700

(Sequence of the excursion may be changed)

The excursion begins with a visit to one of the oldest Chinese temples in Singapore. Thian Hock Keng Temple or the Temple of Heavenly Happiness, built in 18 1 by seamen from China grateful for a safe passage, stands where Singapore’s waterfront used to be before land reclamation. Then we will proceed on to Eu Yan Sang, the largest traditional Chinese medicine establishment in Chinatown, to learn about the Chinese secret of keeping healthy and young the traditional way. The first and only one of its kind in Singapore, Eu Yan Sang’s Birds Nest Gallery brings together the myriad variety of birds’ nests from all over South East Asia. It is also a veritable treasure trove of information on the history of birds’ nests as a delicacy and health supplement, the harvesting process, as well as efforts at conservation. At a specially-arranged session in a tea art centre, we will introduce you to tea appreciation. Few have experienced the ambience and highly therapeutic effects of the traditional art of Chinese tea making — a practice that can be dated back to as early as the period of Three Kingdoms ( 0- 65 AD). At the tea art centre, you will discover that tea ceremony is far more complicated than just boiling water and pouring the tea. Each performance involves a bewildering combination of different-sized pots, cups, strainers, jugs and heating apparatuses.

8 From village to world-class city – understanding Singapore

3 hours
S$58 per person, Minimum 10 persons

M08 Mon 15 October 0900-1 00
T08 Tue 16 October 0900-1 00
H08 Thu 18 October 0900-1 00

It was Sir Stamford Raffles’ dream for Singapore to become a great international port and trading centre for the Far East. With pioneering spirit and great planning, Singapore has now become a showcase of urban planning, utilising its land-scarce resources to the full. Learn about the remarkable development of this tiny island-state from a mere fishing village to urban chic. A drive through the Civic District will reveal the heritage of the grand colonial days. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), Singapore City Gallery is a visitor centre that tells the success story of Singapore’s planning. The Gallery is home to 48 stunning displays, interactive touch-screens and exciting 3D animations. Find out how a land-scarce country like Singapore juggles the needs of the nation, what went on behind the scenes to make Singapore what it is today and what it will be like thirty years from now. Visit one of Singapore’s satellite towns that was conceived by the URA and implemented by the Housing and Development Board (HDB). Singapore’s new towns are fully integrated and feature a combination of housing, transportation, shopping, offices and factories.

9 Peranakan insights

5.5 hours
S$1 0 per person, Minimum 10 persons

W09 Wed 17 October 1400-1630
H09 Thu 18 October 1400-1630

Since the 1500s, a unique and distinct culture formed in the Straits Settlements of Malacca and Penang, on the West coast of Malaysia, moving to Singapore in the 1800s. Its people were called Peranakans — meaning ‘local born’. Many were originally Chinese traders who married local Malay ladies. Theirs was a community not only of wealth and influence but also one rich in tradition and proud of its heritage, with its own distinctive cuisine, religious practices and language; a unique blend of cultures so typical of this region. You will go to Katong, in the east of Singapore, to pay a visit to Mr Wee’s private house and antique shop where you will be shown an unsurpassed collection of Peranakan private collectables. Peter Wee is a fourth generation Peranakan residing in Singapore and an absolute authority on, and guardian of, Peranakan culture. He will guide us through his house. A typical house of the 1930s with its reception room, house altar and inner patio, it will give us an insight into the fascinating lives of this disappearing culture. Note: there is a steep staircase at Katong Antique House and to visit the second floor visitors will be asked to take off their shoes.

10 Sultans of spice - a Kampong Glam walk

3 hours
S$105 per person, Minimum 10 persons

H10 Thu 18 October 0900-1 00

Singapore in 1819: politics and power like you have never seen before wielded by a commercial firm called the ‘East India Company’. Find out about the man who sold Singapore to the British for 60,000 Spanish Dollars, and the man who forced him to. The sultans who used to rule are now mostly forgotten. Follow us on a pilgrimage to remember past glories and discover Islamic beliefs, Malay traditions and mysticism that goes back countless centuries. Highlights include Keris Gallery, Sultan Mosque, Bussorah Street, Traditional Muslim Supplies shop, Old Istana Kampong Glam (Royal Palace) and Royal Graveyard. Note: to enter the mosque you should wear long-sleeved blouses/shirts and long skirts or trousers.

11 On forbidden ground – a Fort Canning Hill walk

3 hours
S$106 per person, Minimum 10 persons

T11 Tue 16 October 0900 - 1 00

Tread lightly, for treasures lie beneath. Porcelain, Chinese coins, Indian beads, Javanese jewellery, all dating back hundreds of years have been discovered at archaeological digs. Visit a mysterious, centuries-old tomb, reputed to hold Singapore’s last ancient king – also known as the person who founded Malacca. Uncover scandals and controversies at Singapore’s first Christian cemetery which reads like a ‘who’s who’ and a ‘who married who’. How many wives did Raffles have? And finally, find out about the murder that changed the entire course of Singapore’s history! Highlights include: Keramat (Shrine of) Iskandar Shah, Archaeological dig exhibit, Spice Garden, Christian Cemetery, Fort Canning Centre, Old Fort Gate.

12 Spice Wok – culinary adventure (with lunch)

5.5 hours
S$220 per person, Minimum 20 persons

W12 Wed 17 October 0830-1400

Singapore played an important role during the days of the spice trade, where it acted as an entry port for spices in the Asian region. All kinds of spices, from nutmeg to cloves, passed through Singapore to reach the West. With such a rich history in those turbulent and exciting times, what better place to start tracing the evolution than here? This morning, guests will attend ‘at-sunrice’ for a culinary exploration; ‘at-sunrice’ is a 5,000 square feet centre established at the historic Fort Canning Park. Take a walk in the tropical Spice Garden, founded by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1822, to see the spices. Watch the chef’s demonstration of local cuisines. Find out tips and tricks and pick up new skills as the chef guides you along in this hands-on experience. Discover the skills required to prepare local dishes and how the fresh herbs and spices are used in cooking. Inhale the aromas, crush the leaves between your fingers and after cooking you will get to taste your own work!

13 Tropical splendour at the Botanic Gardens

3 hours
S$148 per person, Minimum 15 persons

T13 Tue 16 October 1430-1730
W13 Wed 17 October 1430-1730

The Gardens epitomise the tropical island’s luxuriant parks. Spread over 5 hectares and close to the centre of the city, the garden is a combination of untouched primary forest and specialty gardens displaying frangipanis, roses, ferns and desert plants. The thousands of plant species here, including many rare specimens, reflect the garden’s richness and diversity of plant life. You will also see some masterpieces by sculptor Sydney Harpley. The present orchid enclosure has 0,000 orchid plants on display. The National Orchid Garden promises sprawling orchid displays, water features and an exotic bromeliad collection from Central and South America. Stroll through the gardens with a School of Horticulture guide or an orchidologist who will be on hand to explain the diversity and history of the garden and the many facts of orchid-growing and point out the special orchid hybrids named after VIPs. Of special interest is the Vanda Miss Joaquim — the first orchid hybrid discovered on the island and now the national flower of Singapore. Enhance your tour with a relaxing afternoon tea, whilst enjoying a view of the garden.

14 Trail biking in Pulau Ubin

4 hours
S$144 per person, Minimum 10 persons

W14 Wed 17 October 0830-1 30

Enjoy a bike ride on Singapore’s scenic Pulau Ubin and explore one of Singapore’s last nature reserves. Transfer by coach to Changi Point jetty, crowded with picturesque and quaintly-named ‘bumboats’. The group will take a short 8-minute ride across to Ubin Island, but a long ride back in time, back to the rural Singapore of the 1950s. After experiencing the ambience of one of the last remaining wooden villages in Singapore, where residents still provide themselves with their own water from wells and their own electricity from generators, the group will rent bikes to explore the island. Endless varieties of wild plants and butterflies abound between areas of village gardens, coconut plantations, old rubber plantations, woodland, mangroves and fish ponds. Specialist nature guides, well-versed in the history of the island and its villagers, will lead you around at a gentle biking and walking pace from southern jetty to northern shores for an unforgettable and uniquely Singaporean experience.
Note: please bring sturdy shoes, spare T-shirt, water bottle and day pack.

Tour

Eastern & Oriental Express – Singapore to Bangkok

3 days / nights

Pre-conference tour: Thursday 11- Saturday 13 October
Post-conference tour: Thursday 18 - Saturday 20 October - FULLY BOOKED, NO AVAILABILITY
Pullman compartment S$3, 14 per person
State compartment S$4,811 per person
Suite compartment S$6,57 per person

Experience a panoramic view of the mystical landscapes of Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. Following the success of the famous Venice Simplon-Orient- Express, the Eastern & Oriental Express made history as the first train ever to transport passengers directly from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.

This luxury train was originally built in Japan in 197 and operated as the Silver Star train in New Zealand. Its carriages were then remodelled and designed by Gerard Gillet, the man behind much of the design and refurbishment of both the British Pullman and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. On board the Eastern & Oriental Express, the atmosphere harks back to a ‘colonial’ age of rattan chairs on the veranda, linen suits and tea dances. The majesty and splendour of the Eastern & Oriental Express, with its elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, combined with the adventure of a journey through the heart of Asia, is a truly unique way to experience the full wonder of this remarkable region.

The following tours are included : Penang – guided tour of Georgetown, the colonial capital of Penang Island. The tour of this historic town and Fort Cornwallis is partly by trishaw. Georgetown, named by King George III, is a fast-moving city with a thriving port from which Malaysia’s exports find their way to the world’s markets. River Kwai – boat excursion along the River Kwai to the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre where a local historian will provide an informative tour. Set in a landscape of limestone hills, Kanchanaburi is 4km from the famous bridge on the River Kwai. The bridge was first constructed in 194 , when the Japanese decided to build a 415 km railway line linking Burma and Thailand. The bridge was completed in 1943 but in 1944 was bombed several times and only rebuilt after the end of the war. Pierre Boulle’s novel and subsequent film gave the “Bridge over the River Kwai” particular international awareness.

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