Weekendin Singapore Nov '13 | Issue 08 | Page 56

WeekendinFEATURE WeekendinFEATURE HOLIDAY VISA REQUIRENMENTS Singaporeans: No (Visa given upon Arrival) British/Australian/Other Passports: No (Visa given upon Arrival) FLIGHT ROUTE Singapore Changi Airport - Christchurch or Queenstown FLIGHT PROVIDERS Singapore Airlines: Christchurch VISA REQUIRENMENTS Singaporeans: No (Up to 90 days within 6 months from date of initial entry) British/Australian/Other Passports: No (Up to 90 days within 6 months from date of initial entry) FLIGHT ROUTE Singapore Changi Airport - San Francisco Airport FLIGHT PROVIDERS Singapore Airlines: (Direct flight) Emirates: (One stop) Emirates: Christchurch/ Queenstown A vineyard in Napa Valley Travel to Napa Valley Napa Valley needs no introduction as a premier travel destination and as the location of some of the world’s best wineries. With over 300 wineries ranging from small family businesses to company giants with first class facilities, the valley sees up to five million visitors a year, particularly in the summer and during harvest in autumn. Approximately 35 miles long and 1 to 5 miles wide, Napa Valley has 16 unique sub AVAs (American Viticultural Appellations), each of which has its own microclimate, geographical characteristics and cultivation methods that result in the fruit and drinks’ unique characteristics. The wineries themselves have their own architecture, ambience, history and overall charm, therefore making each visit different from the next. However the selling point of the area is probably the stunning panoramic views of the Mayacamas and Vaca mountains, that visitors can enjoy while getting a taste of these top Weekendin 54 A day to reflect - When the scenery is this powerful, your heart beats faster even before you start peddling. The Ledge Bungy - Bungy with a million dollar view Napa River Front notch Californian wines. While wine tasting is the prominent activity in the area, do note that winery touring does not have to be a mundane and lifeless activity. Some of the more lively options include Bike tours, which enable you to go off-road and get a whiff of the fruit as you pedal through the offbeaten tracks. Those looking for a more regal experience can opt to take the horse- drawn carriage that takes you on a 7 mile loop to four different boutique wineries. Or if soaking in the panoramic views while riding in a classic 1947 Packard convertible limousine is more your style, that option is available as well. However the best and most exciting way to explore the wine country is to take a hot air balloon ride, an hour-long journey that comes with narration by the pilot. Non-wine drinkers should note that Napa Val- Mt. St Helena ley is not just endless rows of vineyards. On the epicurean front, Napa Valley is also recognised as having some of the country’s best restaurants, many of which are run by award winning chefs. Day spas are another activity that tops the list of many tourists. There are more than 50 spas in the area, each with their own treatments and styles to suit your needs and preferences. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs has mineral water pools and mud baths, while Villagio Inn & Spa has designed spa experiences that have individual scents, sounds and therapies. Other activities include a Safari ride through a 400 acre wildlife sanctuary which is home to over 400 mammals and birds. Farmers Markets can also be found where you can purchase flowers, gourmet food, handmade crafts or simple enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with live music. Anyone for a heli-picnic? In Queenstown, take the joys of picnicking to a whole new level of fun It is no surprise that New Zealand consistently tops travellers’ “countries to visit” lists, and has earned a name as God’s own country. The South Island in particular, is one of the purest and most natural landscapes you’ll ever experience, with its snowcapped mountains, primeval forests and sweeping beaches that will take your breath away. Perhaps the best way to experience the South Island is to rent a car in Christchurch, and take the 6 hour drive to Queenstown. Not only is there a stunning backdrop (complete with sheep) to keep you company, but there are also plenty of quaint towns and sights to visit along the way. Twizel, Lake Tekapo and Lake Wanaka are small but charming towns that make great pit stops and also have decent accommodation should you wish to stop for the night. Other must-see natural sights are Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand’s longest lake at 80km, and Mount Cook which Travel to New Zealand is the country’s highest mountain. You can opt to take a scenic helicopter flight for a bird’s eye view of this majestic mountain, or get up close to the Tasman Glaciers and icebergs of every shape and size. Arriving at Queenstown, there is an array of activities so vast you might have trouble choosing what to do first. As the Adventure Capital of the world, the city has almost every extreme sport you could ask for; from skiing, to paragliding, bungy jumping, rafting, caving, canyoning and much more! While there are at least 3 different bungy jump spots for you t