The local tour information and prices is correct at time of print.
A tour desk will be available at the conference venue from 24 - 27 July 2007. Pre-booking of local tours is not necessary except the Spice Wok - Culinary Experience. Payment by cash in Singapore dollars only can be made upon booking of the local tours. Should you wish to book your local tours prior to 24 July 2007, kindly contact the registration manager at Email:registration@wonca2007.com
City Tour
Come on this trail and discover the history, culture and lifestyle of multi-racial Singapore. Stroll along the colourful streets of Little India and be dazzled by the hive of activity that permeates every nook and cranny of the area. Then visit the Esplanade, our latest multi million dollar theatre attraction located in Marina Bay.
Drive past the Financial District to Chinatown, a place where many of our immigrant forefathers set up home. Patronise the varied and unique shops and visit the oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore, the magnificent Sri Mariamman Temple.
Last stop is the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the ‘green lung’ of our city centre, and experience the calm and serenity of this 52 hectares garden. Located within the grounds of the park is the National Orchid Garden, where you can marvel at the wide variety and colours of Orchids on display. Tour includes a visit to a jewellery factory you can engage in one of Singaporeans favorite pass time – shopping, or simply admire the fine designs of Singapore jewellers.
Note: Admission fee of SGD5.00 to National Orchid Garden included
Duration: 3.5 hours (0930 – 1300hrs OR 1430 – 1800hrs) Tour Price: S$30.00 NETT per person
City in Transformation Tour
Tour begins with a visit to the Singapore River Mouth and Boat Quay area, where the Port of Singapore had its early beginnings. Walk down the narrow streets to discover old warehouses once used in our entrepot trade but now transformed into cyber cafes, pubs and restaurants.
Next, experience the essence of multicultural Singapore in Waterloo Street, where you can observe devotees worshipping at two temples, one a Chinese Kwan Imm Temple and another a Hindu Temple – Sri Krishnan Temple. Along Waterloo Street there is also a Jewish Synagogue and a Catholic Church. All coexisting peacefully side by side.
Our last stop is Mount Faber, which offers a breathtaking, panoramic view of the modern Port and City of Singapore.
Duration: 3.5 hours (0930 – 1300hrs) (Note: Tour operates with a minimum of 4 ticketed/confirmed passengers) Tour Price: S$30.00 NETT per person
Night Tour
First stop is the Raffles landing site, at the mouth of the Singapore River. Board a traditional bum boat for a picturesque ride up the River.
In pre- container days, bum boats were used to transport light cargo from ships anchored off- shore to the warehouses that line both sides of the river.
This is followed by dinner at Boat Quay. After Dinner, rejoin the coach to visit Royal Selangor Pewter Centre at Clarke Quay for a truly unique experience in the world of pewter. Watch live demonstrations of pewter-making processes by skilled craftsmen.
Next hop over to Bugis Village, named after the seafarers from Sulawesi who used to sail and conduct coastal trade with Indonesia in their sailing vessels from the Kallang River.
Last stop is Raffles Hotel. This grand hotel has been restored to its former glory when guests included Somerset Maugham, Noel Coward and Liz Taylor.
Note: Dinner included
Duration: 3.5 hours (1900 – 2230 hrs) Tour Price: S$45.00 NETT per person
Night Safari
Most animals are nocturnal. At dusk they begin to stir for the hunt. At the Singapore Zoo these activities are captured to best effect using subtle lighting, which permits us to watch upclose whilst not disturbing the animals.
The Singapore Zoo houses over 1200 animals from 110 exotic species. Tiger, striped hyena, golden jackal, cape buffalo, blue sheep and the rare greater one horned rhinoceros are but some of the animals you will see. The Night Safari covers an area of 40 hectares of secondary jungle with the Seletar Reservoir providing a beautiful backdrop.
A tram ride, upon arrival at the Zoo, is the easiest way to familiarize yourself with the large grounds. At the end of the ride you may wish to enjoy dinner (not included in tour price) in a romantic forest setting.
After dinner feel free to stroll and take a closer look at the animals. The sound of crickets and owls and the chance to see the tigers and hyenas feasting make for a truly memorable experience.
Note: Dinner outlets available at Zoo – Fast Food Restaurants & Safari Restaurant. Cost of dinner not included in tour price.
"Creatures of the Night" presentation at 2000hrs or 2100hrs has limited seat capacity and is complimentary.
Duration: 4 hours (1900 – 2300 hrs) Tour Price: S$45.00 NETT per person
Cheng Ho Imperial Cruises
Sail to the Southern islands and see the busiest port in the world onboard our air-conditioned Imperial Chinese Vessel, M.V. Cheng Ho. There are three cruises to choose from:
MORNING GLORY CRUISE – The Morning Glory Cruise takes you to the Southern islands with a stopover at Kusu Island, except during Kusu Festival around October (ninth month of the lunar calendar), to see the ancient Chinese temple which legend says was set up by Admiral Cheng Ho for his sailors. Complimentary coffee or tea and biscuits will be served.
Note: Departure from Harbourfront. Please assemble at the water tours Reception Counter, located on the ground floor, Central Lobby, Harbourfront 15 minutes before departures.
Duration: 2.5 hours (1030 – 1300 hrs) Tour Price: S$25.00 NETT per person
HIGH TEA CRUISE – The afternoon high-tea cruise which follows the same route as the Morning Glory Cruise, but includes a delectable selection of cakes, tartlets and sandwiches served for high tea.
Note: Departure from Harbourfront. Please assemble at the water tours Reception Counter, located on the ground floor, Central Lobby, Harbourfront 15 minutes before departures.
Duration: 2.5 hours (1500 - 1730 hrs) Tour Price: S$29.00 NETT per person
DINNER CRUISE – If you want to enjoy sailing at its best, join our sunset dinner cruise. The evening breeze, the setting sun and the peace and quiet of the open sea, is an experience not to be missed. View all this from the aft castle of M.V. Cheng Ho before sitting down to a sumptuous international buffet dinner.
Note: Departure from Harbourfront. Please assemble at the water tours Reception Counter, located on the ground floor, Central Lobby, Harbourfront 15 minutes before departures.
Duration: 2 hours (1830 – 2030 hrs) Tour Price: S$53.00 NETT per person
Heritage Tour
Tour begins with a visit to one of the oldest Chinese Temples in Singapore; the Thien Hock Keng Temple which is more than 160 years old. The unique wooden structures and woodcarvings were built and assembled without using any nails.
Next stop is the Chinatown Heritage Centre. Discover and trace the journeys, beliefs and myths of early Chinese migrants who made their way to Singapore. Gain an insight into their lives and experience for yourself the hardship of living in the dark and cramped quarters they built in Chinatown.
Last stop is Kampong Glam – the old Arab Quarters. Learn about the practice of Islam in this part of the world at the Sultan Mosque. Along Arab Street, see the last remaining shops in Singapore still selling sarongs, rattan baskets, brass works and unique leather products used by the Muslim community.
Duration: 3.5 hours (0930 – 1300hrs OR 1430 – 1800hrs) Tour Price: S$30.00 NETT per person
Jurong Bird Park
This tour is a must for bird enthusiasts and a pleasure for those who simply enjoy nature in all its beauty.
Our route takes us along Keppel Harbour and the Jurong Industrial Estate, Singapore’s economic showpiece.
At the Bird Park, you’ll find hundreds of exotic birds flitting happily about their daily lives. In fact, there are over 7,000 birds of more than 600 species gathered in this beautiful 20-hectare sanctuary!
Visit the world’s largest walk-in aviary and view what is said to be the world’s highest man made waterfall. Also included is an amusing 25 minutes Bird Show.
Duration: 3.5 hours (0930 – 1300 hrs) Tour Price: S$38.00 NETT per person
Zoo Tour
Let us take you on a wild and exciting tour at the Singapore Zoological Gardens, where you’ll find over 2000 animals from all over the world residing in habitats virtually similar to their own.
Set in 28 hectares of lush, landscaped gardens, the zoo is based on an open concept with very few cages. You may observe several of the interesting exhibits from your seat in an electric tram follow by “Wild Breakfast” with barn owls, gibbons, binturong (bear-cat) and spider monkey. Than it’s “Animal Show-time” with specially trained sea lions or elephants.
Note: Passengers on Morning Tour who wish to spend more time at the zoo and return with Afternoon Tour, please make special arrangement with guide.
Duration: 3.5 hours (0830 – 1200 hrs OR 1430 – 1800 hrs) Tour Price: S$52.00 per person(AM with Breakfast) Tour Price: S$41.00 per person(AM without Breakfast/PM)
Sentosa Island Tour (Dolphin Lagoon & Underwater World) MORNING TOUR
A leisurely drive takes you to Mount Faber for a cable ride to Sentosa Island and panoramic view of the world’s busiest harbour.
We then proceed to the Underwater World, one of the largest oceanarium that has a 83m long acrylic tunnel for a spectacular view of marine life. We next head for the Dolphin Lagoon where you get the rare opportunity to marvel at the performance of intelligent pink dolphins.
Hop onto the island’s shuttle and head for the Merlion, standing on a 23m high hillock overlooking Sentosa. It offers a 360 degree view of Sentosa as well as a panoramic view of Singapore’s southern shore.
Return to mainland Singapore by coach via the Causeway Link.
AFTERNOON TOUR
Take our coach to Mount Faber for a cable car ride to Sentosa Island and a panoramic view of the world’s busiest harbour.
On the island, visit Butterfly Park, with its beautifully landscaped park; specially designed to exhibit live butterflies and insects in a lush natural environment.
We then proceed to the Underwater World, one of the largest oceanarium that has a 83m long acrylic tunnel for a spectacular view of marine life.
Take a stroll to idyllic Siloso Beach, developed for beach and sea sports. Relax to the sound of waves gently washing ashore and enjoy walking barefoot on the beautiful white sand.
Return to mainland Singapore by coach, via the causeway link.
Note: Passengers on Afternoon Tour who wish to spend more time at Sentosa and return in the evening, please approach your guide.
Duration: 4 hrs (0930- 1330 hrs OR 1430-1830hrs) Tour Price: S$52.00 NETT per person
Sentosa Island Tour @ Sunset
Take a cable car ride to Sentosa Island and enjoy a panoramic view of the Port of Singapore as the sun sets.
Visit the Images of Singapore exhibition to experience the real magic behind the story of Singapore. Here, legend, fact and folklore are creatively interwoven for guests to enjoy the special “ I am here” experience. Images of Singapore is a journey into the very soul of Singapore – a place of adventure, ingenuity, perseverance, survival and fun.
Next, we proceed to the Underwater World, one of the largest oceanarium that has a 83m long acrylic tunnel for a spectacular vie of marine life.
Finally, visit the Musical Fountain for a spectacular synchronized show of water fountains, coloured lights and music. Return to mainland Singapore by coach via the Causeway Link.
Note: Light meal is not included in Sunset Tour. There is sufficient time for sit down dinner. Fast Food outlets offering snacks and sandwiches are located at attractions and these may be patronized before adjourning to the Musical Fountain to enjoy the sight and sound show.
Duration: 4 hrs (1600 – 2000hrs) Tour Price: S$54.00 NETT per person
Heartlands of New Asia - Singapore
Discover life in Singapore in the old days, when fishing villages and “kampong” living thrived and community spirit ran high amongst the villagers. Today, this community spirit and traditional lifestyle lives on, albeit in a more modern setting. Truly a case of a city with its head in the future and its soul in the past!
The tour starts at Suntec City, a modern cluster of impressive buildings in the heart of the city. We drive eastwards to visit the bustling enclave of Katong and Joo Chiat that showcase the rich Pernakan architecture. Admire rows of colourful traditional shop houses that dates back to the mid 1920’s
Next, a visit to Changi Prison Museum and view a replica of the Chapel which was used during World War II. The tour then proceeds to Changi Village passing by Changi Yacht Club and Tampines New Town with a stop at the Tampines Chinese Temple that houses 9 deities.
Duration: 3.5 hours (1430 – 1800 hrs) (Tour operates with a minimum of 4 ticketed/confirmed passengers) Tour Price: S$30.00 NETT per person
Shop & Eat @ Chinatown
Discover the rich heritage of Singapore’s ethnic oldest district from a different perspective. Taste and touch history as we take you to Chinatown to visit traders and hawkers whose ancestors set up their famous shops and restaurants decades ago.
Tour starts with breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast. Their home-made egg jam (kaya) and butter on toast, half-boiled eggs and hot cup of traditional local coffee or tea is very popular with the locals.
Next, drop in at Bee Chun Hiang, to sample their fragrant barbequed sweet meat (bak kwa). They have been around since 1945.
Then, there is Tong Heng, a traditional Chinese pastry shop, famous for their egg tarts. Next to Tong Heng is the traditional Chinese Medicine Hall, Eu Yan Sang, trusted for their health tonics and herbal remedies for over 120 years. Tour includes a visit to the Bird’s Nest Gallery.
It’s then time to enjoy a delectable lunch at Lee Tong Kee Restaurant, famous for their Ipoh Hor Fun (flat rice noodles). Complete your meal with a glass of ‘cooling’ home-made barley water and traditional local dessert.
Note: Tour price includes breakfast at Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Tong Heng egg tarts and Ipoh Hor Fun lunch at Lee Tong Kee Restaurant.
Duration: 4 hours (0930 – 1330 hrs) (Tour operates with a minimum of 4 ticketed/confirmed passengers) Tour Price: S$42.00 NETT per person
Spice Wok - Culinary Adventure (Pre-Booking is required)
Singapore played an important role during the days of the Spice Trade, where she acted as an entreport for spices in Asian region. All kinds of spices, from nutmegs to cloves, passed through Singapore to reach the West. With such a rich history situated in the middle of those turbulent and exciting times, what better place to start tracing the evolution than here?
This morning, guests will proceed to ‘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 au naturel.
Experience Chef’s demonstration of some local cuisines. Find out tips and tricks and pick up new skills as the Chef guides you along in the hands-on experience. Find out the skills and craftware required in preparing local dishes and how some of the fresh herbs and spices are used in the cooking.
Touch, feel and smell different spices of plants, observe where seeds grow and learn how to look for the best leaf! Inhale the aromas, crush the leaves between your fingers and roll the seeds in the palm of your hands… after the cooking experience, you will get to taste your own work at the patio, overlooking the picturesque Fort Canning Green.
Note: Lunch included
Duration: 6 hours (0830 – 1430hrs) Per Time Slot: minimum 20 / maximum 30 persons per session Tour Price: TBC