Westhill Consulting Travel & Tours based in Singapore Offers New Family Friendly Trips

The active travel consultant company Westhill Consulting Travel & Tours based in Singapore sets international adventure vacation standards.  The company announces 10 new-for-2014 adventure destinations that are all value-driven family.

The company’s founder and CEO says, “I know how important family is and I value keeping the family tradition going.  It has been my personal mission in life.  This year we took a closer look at our itineraries and prices and offer as much value and relief as we can.  We offer kid-friendly lodgings with exemplary service and cuisine, all at a very competitive price.  We assure you won't be having any complaints.”

Westhill Consulting Travel & Tours Singapore accept children of all ages.  And since there are no age restrictions on custom and private trips, family trips are becoming increasingly popular.  Grandparents can also come with travel plans, including extended family members.

 

The company has carefully designed itineraries to include supervised activities for kids while adults enjoy a candlelit meal or some private downtime.  A special child pricing for the child or children with parents or grandparents is offered.  There are also some other special offers for families such as an extra guide and van and such-kid friendly equipment as tag-along bikes, squirt guns and games.  

“We've created the perfect blend of cross-generational activity, comfort and adventure to satisfy adventurers of all ages with many choices and flexibility on our family vacation trips,” Westhill says.

 

Accommodations are carefully designed to combine child-friendly elements.

 

Here is a sample of new family friendly trips of Jakarta, Indonesia Tour: source http://www.expat.or.id/info/funactivitieskidsjakarta.html 

 

Laser Game

Technology has improved on paintball and now you can enjoy the same fun as paintball without the pain of getting hit or the mess of the paint.  Laser Game uses infrared technology to record hits on an individual or a team. At the end of the session a printout is generated with the record of all the action during the 15-minute session.  Played in a maze with black light, this is a great activity for children 8 years and older - all the way to adults.  Corporations are a using a lot laser games as a way to encourage team building or outings for their young executives. The company offers a free training session which includes safety advice and warnings. 

Kidzania

Kidzania is a role playing indoor theme park. Children are given the opportunity to work at over 70 professions with opportunities to become a doctor or a pilot or baker for the day. They are paid with Kidzos, the official currency of the park. There are two sessions during the day, 9:00– 2:00 and 3:00 – 8:00. Because of its popularity, it is best to make reservations for your child. Kidzania is located in Pacific Place Mall in Jakarta.  

10 Things to Know About Travel in Southeast Asia

Lots of globetrotters and backpackers have journeyed to the fertile and culturally rich Southeast Asia. Known for its beautiful beaches, mesmerizing historical sights and a touch of adventurousness, this comparatively inexpensive travel destination baits thousands amongst thousands of people every year with landmarks like Angkor Wat, Cambodia; the city of Bangkok, Thailand; and the scenic views of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. Don’t forget Jakarta Indonesia a surprise in Southeast Asia.

As much as we highly recommend you visit these places, the prudent traveler will do his/her homework as to abide the laws and traditions of these very different countries, as well as be prepared to face the risks, both financial and otherwise that could wind up tarnishing your vacation.

Almost everything is negotiable, almost: Haggling can be more beneficial in Southeast Asia than in most places in the world. Vendors at most malls and shops do not have price tags and it is common that when you ask for one, the price will be quite high because it looks like you have cash to burn. Don't be afraid to ask for a lower price since another vendor just a few feet way is sure to be selling the same thing.

The food is great, just be careful: Renowned for its amazing cuisine, both on the street and in the restaurants, eating in SE Asia is one of the most exciting parts of going, but be cautious before eating just anything. One tip is to check if you see other patrons dining at a location before you go in.

Also, many of these countries have free English-written dining guides. Check them out.

Watch your pockets: Whether you are on the back of a motorbike or walking down the street, muggings and scams happen everywhere. Keep your personal belongings near to you at all times, perhaps consider a fanny pack or only bringing along essentials where you're out of the hotel. This is a justified warning.

There is more to life than 'backpacker street': SE Asian countries have become very good at creating mini-tourism hubs of inexpensive hotels or hostels and surrounding them with vendors and bars and everything you need so that you don't leave.

Granted, in places like Saigon and Bangkok, they are a lot of fun, but make a point to get out and explore other places. You'll never know what's waiting just around the corner.

Wetshill Consulting Travel & Tours based in Singapore specializes in in giving advice and tips for tourists from Australia, Canada, US and all countries all over the world.

Check the local rags and mags: As I mentioned before, most SE Asian countries have English-written guides. That's because in a number of countries there, there is already an established community of expatriates. If you are looking to just find your bearings and want a safe bet on places to go, pick one up.

Be prepared to be approached by strangers: Locals in Southeast Asia are often very nice toward westerners and truthfully enjoy telling you how nice you look. Whether it is coming from a man or woman, get ready for a swarm of compliments on your appearance. It may seem a little strange at first, but you will get used to it. I promise.

This scotch does not taste like scotch: Drinks are a quarter of the price than what you'd find in Europe or in the U.S., the reason being that many of the typical name brands are regionally produced and use local ingredients, so don't be shocked when your beloved Grey Goose on ice tastes a little different from what you are used to. Use the opportunity to try some very interesting locally produced spirits.

Take the tour deals seriously: Pretty much anywhere you go (of the major tourist destinations) there are sure to be tour pamphlets sitting around with great deals. From boat rides to day trips, there are great tours around that will get you where you need to go.

Hire local transport for the day: One great way to get around is to hire a tuk tuk or a moto-driver for the whole day to take you everywhere you want to go for a very nominal price. Your driver can also work as a de facto tour guide, getting you around to the spots you may not have thought of and that you would regret not seeing.

When you can, take a bus or train: When it comes to budget traveling, this is the way. Night buses get you from one country to the next for next to nothing, although they do take longer, no doubt about that. Roads between many destinations are well enough to travel, although there are going to be bumpy rides. None the less, when you need to do it on the cheap, this is the best option.

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Travel Tips

It's always important to take care of your health, but there are additional concerns to keep in mind when you're traveling.

Whether you're taking a quick trip with your family or studying abroad for several months, it's easier to get sick when you're in a new place because your body hasn't had a chance to adjust to the food, water, and air in a new environment. Traveling can bring you in contact with things that your body isn't used to.

Here are some tips on keeping your travel experience as healthy as possible.

Don't Take a Vacation from Health

The stress and excitement of travel can make you more likely to get sick, but if you follow a few simple tips, you're more likely to stay healthy throughout your trip — and your trip will definitely be more enjoyable. The good news is that as a teen, your immune system is as strong as an adult's, but lack of sleep and a poor diet can make it easier for you to become sick.

The first thing you should do if you're heading overseas is to find out what kinds of vaccinations you'll need in advance because different countries have different requirements. In the United States, contact your doctor or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for a list of necessary vaccinations. You'll want to allow plenty of time for this step in case you need to get vaccines that require more than one dose.

Common Travel Troubles

Three of the most common health problems that you may experience when traveling are jet lag, altitude sickness, and diarrhea. When you fly across time zones, the differing amounts of light can change your internal body clock, resulting in a condition known as jet lag. Jet lag may cause some symptoms that are bummers on a fun trip, including upset stomach, insomnia, and tiredness.

There are some things you can do to combat jet lag; for example, if you're traveling from west to east, you should stay out of the sun until the day after your arrival. If you're flying from east to west, go for a brisk walk as soon as possible after you arrive.

Altitude sickness is caused by dry air, a decrease in oxygen, and low barometric pressure when you travel to a higher altitude than you're used to. As a result, you may have problems, such as headaches, dehydration, and shortness of breath. Some people are affected at 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), but others aren't affected until they reach altitudes of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) or more. Find out what altitude you're traveling to before you go to see if altitude sickness could be a problem.

The best prevention for altitude sickness is to gradually increase your altitude every day to get used to it. If that isn't possible, a drug known as acetazolamide can help relieve and even prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. If you think that you might get altitude sickness, talk with your doctor before you leave home.

The topic of diarrhea may seem gross, but it can be a serious problem. Traveler's diarrhea, known as turista, often occurs when a foreign type of bacteria enters your digestive tract, usually when you eat contaminated food or water. The best way to prevent turista is to be very careful of the food you eat and the water you drink on the road

Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a special territory enjoying the status of a province, consisting of Greater Jakarta, covering an area of 637.44 square km. Located on the northern coast of West Java, it is the center of government, commerce and industry and as such has an extensive communications network with the rest of the country and the outside world. As Indonesia's main gateway, the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves a growing number of international airlines and domestic flights. Jakarta is a city of contrasts; the traditional and the modern, the rich and the poor, the sacral and the worldly, often stand side by side in this bustling metropolis. Even its population, gathered from all those diverse ethnic and cultural groups which compose Indonesia, are constantly juxtaposed as an ever- present reminder of the national motto; Unity in Diversity.

Finding its origin in the small early 16th century harbor town of Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta's founding is thought to have taken place on June 22, 1527, when it was re-named Jayakarta, meaning

Glorious Victory by the conquering Prince Fatahillah from neighboring Cirebon. The Dutch East Indies Company which captured the town and destroyed it in 1619, changed its name into Batavia and made it the center for the expansion of their power in the East Indies. Shortly after the outbreak of World War II, Batavia fell into the hands of the invading Japanese forces who changed the name of the city into Jakarta as a gesture aimed at winning the sympathy of the Indonesians.

The name was retained after Indonesia achieved national independence after the war's end.

The ethnic Jakartan called "Orang Betawi" speaks Betawi Malay, spoken as well in the surrounding towns such as Bekasi and Tangerang. This language has two variations: the conventional Betawi Malay and the modern Jakarta Malay. While the first is spoken by the elder people, born and bred in Jakarta, the second is spoken by the younger generation and migrants.

Jakarta's architecture reflects to a large extent the influx of outside influences which came and has remained in this vital seaport city. The Taman Fatahillah Restoration Project, begun in the early 1970s has restored one of the oldest sections of Jakarta also known as Old Batavia to approximately its original state.

The old Portuguese Church and warehouse have been rehabilitated into living museums. The old Supreme Court building is now a museum of fine arts which also houses part of the excellent Chinese porcelain collection of former Vice President Adam Malik. The old Town Hall has become the Jakarta Museum, displaying such rare items as Indonesia's old historical documents and Dutch period furniture.

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Its tower clock was once returned to England to be repaired under its lifetime guarantee, which up to now has already lasted hundreds of years.

One of the most interesting tourist attractions is the "Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park" popularly called "Taman Mini". Built to portray the variety of cultures found within the many islands contained in the Republic of Indonesia, this open-air museum comprises the many architectural forms of arts and traditions of all 27 provinces. It is proof of the country's motto of Unity in Diversity as well as Freedom of Religion depicted in the houses of worship built on the grounds.

Jakarta has preserved its past and is developing for the future. Skyscrapers in the center of the city are part of a new look.

Modern luxury hotels today cater to the discriminating visitors. Transport within the city is plentiful. It should be noted that museums are open daily from 8.00 a.m. (except Mondays) till 2.00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. On Fridays closing hour is 11.00 a.m. and on Saturdays at 1.00 p.m.

Jakarta Travel Guide

Jakarta is the biggest city in Indonesia with a role as the capital of Indonesia as well as the government center of Indonesia. Jakarta is also one of the 33 provinces in Indonesia, and therefore governed by a governor who reports to the President of Indonesia through the Internal Affairs Minister. Due to the multi role as both a province and the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta then given a status of Special Capital Region (Daerah Khusus Ibukota=DKI). DKI Jakarta has five municipalities and administrative regency. The five municipalities are North Jakarta (Jakarta Utara), East Jakarta (Jakarta Timur), West Jakarta (Jakarta Barat), South Jakarta (Jakarta Selatan), Central Jakarta (Jakarta Pusat), and Thousand Islands Regency (Kepulauan Seribu). Each municipality headed by a Mayor who assists to prepare the planning of their region. Thousand Island is headed by a Regent who’s responsible on the financial matters.

History

The history of Jakarta began from a small port at the mouth of Ciliwung River, centuries ago. The port city then emerged to become a busy international trading center. Journals of European journalist in 16th century mentioned that there’s a city, named Kalapa (Kelapa in Sundanese called kalapa, means coconut), seemed as the main port for a Hindu Kingdom named Sunda, with a capital of Pajajaran, located near to the current location of Bogor. Portuguese was the first fleet from Europe that arrived at Kalapa Port.

Proclamation MonumentThe port city was then attacked by its neighbor, Demak Kingdom, under the leadership of Fatahillah. On 22nd June, 1527, Kelapa Port was taken away and the name was then changed to Jayakarta, which meant a city of glory and victory. 22nd June1527 then recognized as birthday of Jakarta. Dutch fleet arrived at the 16th century which soon dominated Jayakarta and changed the name to Batavia. At the era when Japanese dominated Indonesia, from 1942 to 1945, the name of Batavia was changed to Jakarta. On 17th August 1945, Ir. Soekarno proclaimed the freedom of Indonesia in Jakarta, when red and white flag of Indonesia was officially raised for the first time. The sovereignty of Indonesia officially acknowledged in 1949 after Indonesia joined the United Nation. In 1966 Jakarta was officially announced as the capital of Indonesia.

Demographic

Total population of Jakarta is about 10 million people. The population of Jakarta is increased at day time when the workers whose resident are at small towns around Jakarta like Bekasi, Tangerang, Bogor and Depok coming to Jakarta for work. East Jakarta which population is about two million people is the most populated municipality, while Thousand Islands with about 20,000 population is the least populated regency. Indonesian language (Bahasa Indonesia) is the language used in daily conversation. Regional languages still used by those people originated from the same region. However, since Jakarta people originated from various ethnicities so the main language used is Indonesian language. For some of Jakarta people such as students, workers or businessmen, English start to be commonly used. Other foreign languages that were interesting to be studied by some of Jakarta people are Dutch, France, Germany, Mandarin, Arabic and Japanese.

Culture

The ethnic of Betawi is the original people lived in Jakarta. At the beginning of Jakarta city, there were some people from different ethnics like Sundanese, Javanese, Balinese, Malayan, Maluku people, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, Arabian, Indian and some other ethnics living in Jakarta brought various kind of culture to Jakarta. The colloquial language used in daily communication was Malay with some influence of Portuguese, Chinese and English on the dialect. Those people from different ethnics then slowly assimilated one another and finally lost of their original culture. From the assimilation process of those ethnics then a new kind of ethnic was born, that was Betawi. Betawi people have a unique culture that easily recognized from their dialect, cloth, and arts. Situ Babakan, a cultural preserve, was founded to preserve the culture of Betawi people.


Interesting Places in Jakarta

Jakarta is a metropolitan city which has millions enchantments to enjoy. There are many comfortable malls and luxurious plazas for shopping, entertainment places like bars, night club, discotheques and live music, as well as international restaurants serving good taste cuisines. Besides modernity, there’re many simplicity you could see in Jakarta, such as small shops (warung) under the tent, sidewalk shops, bajaj (three wheeled vehicle), and bicycle ojek (ride by bicycle).

Top 5 Most Romantic Beach Getaways in South East Asia

With the Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's never too late to book a ticket and plan your next romantic getaway.  If you and you're honey are up to some dash of adventure, South East Asia is the perfect destination for you. As the region boasts some of the best beaches in the world, it is your gateway to an early summer sand frolic and memories of sweet nothings that are meant to last for a lifetime. 

Boracay, Philippines

The island has been known to be one of the best acclaimed beaches in the world. Located on the northwest corner of Panay Island in the Philippines, the seven kilometer island is home to long beaches, fine white sand and breath taking sunsets. It's also been known to have vast selection of restaurants and resorts, which can set a perfect ambiance to your romantic date. If you're up for some action, various water sports and hiking trails are available for your leisure at a fraction of the cost. Bazaars are also set-up that features local Filipino crafts and delicacies. Nightlife is buzzing with multiple events set-up all year long.

For many tourists who've been to the island, it's a destination they say that would keep you coming back for more.

Bali, Indonesia

Surf's up for the surfing enthusiast. The most well-known and smallest island of Indonesia lies in the east of Java only separated by the Bali Strait. The island is around 112 km long and features mountain ranges with peaks as high as 3,000 meters. More than just a mecca for surfers, it features diverse and exquisite wildlife as well as ancient temples that remind the island of its historic past. Its tourist friendly ambiance is a great first stop if you're travelling in Asia for the first time. Diving, surfing and hiking are only some of the activities you can do in the island. Once there, you'd be surprised of the number of options you can add in your itinerary.

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

You probably saw Koh Phi Phi in the adventure drama film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The small archipelago is composed of 6 islands in the province of Krabi, Thailand. The distinct feature of the island is its population diversity aside from lush wildlife. Buddhist, Thai's, Malay Muslims and indigenous groups have settled to the island and have lived in harmony. Going around the island Koh Phi Phi also very convenient as the biggest island, Ko Phi Phi Don is only about 8 km long. World renowned Thai cuisine reflects the plates of every restaurant in the island. If you are up to some gastronomic adventure, not only do you have the option of trying the best dinning places but can even learn how to make it by yourself. Multiple classes are offered in Koh Phi Phi with program schedules that can be customized to your need.    

El Nido, Philippines

The tranquility of the island is contagious to any traveler. The majestic limestone formation of El Nido would impress outdoor lovers around the globe.  A part of the province of Palawan, it has been recently named as the Best Beach and Island destination in the Philippines according to the CNN Go's report.  It hosts 50 white sand beaches, various endangered species, and a vast coral formation. Palawan is also known as "The Last Frontier" with the island's Tubataha Reef Marine National Park named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This hidden jewel is perfect for lovers that want to elude densely populated tourist destinations.

Redang, Malaysia

A great place for honeymoons and weddings, the island of Redang is a perfect backdrop to your beach nuptial photos. The island is known for crystal clear waters, fine white sand and spectacular skyline. It is also a good spot for underwater tourism with historic shipwrecks found in its waters. The richness of flavor found in Malaysian food never escaped the island. With top of the line beach resorts and international hotels, a commodity is worth every dime you spend.

Favehotel Opens in Melawai, Jakarta

Archipelago International has expanded its portfolio of favehotels in Indonesia with the opening of the favehotel Melawai Jakarta.

Set within the most happening area of Melawai, the favehotel Melawai Jakarta is situated just around the corner from the main street, Jl. Melawai 4, which has long been a hit with younger city dwellers.

 The hotel sits in the very heart of Block M inside Block M Square, Jakarta’s famous Japanese enclave known as “Little Tokyo” that teams an excellent range of shopping options and thriving nightlife. Shopaholics can also enjoy the larger and more exclusive shopping outlets at the nearby Pasaraya Grande.

The hotel features 101 rooms complete with complimentary high-speed WiFi throughout the entire hotel.

 The rooms feature LED TVs, security key card systems, air conditioning, in-room safes and top of the line Serta beds with high knot count cotton linens.

There are also 3 meeting rooms and parking space, while the all day café-shop is a quite spot for light bites and casual coffee breaks.