It is our favourite time of the year once again! ‘Tis the season to be jolly, and we are super stoked for Christmas 2016! Step into shopping malls and you will immediately be greeted with Christmas melodies. Visit Starbucks and you will see everybody’s favourite Peppermint Mocha on the menu. Walk along Orchard Road and you will see the grand

Step into shopping malls and you will immediately be greeted by Christmas trees and festive melodies. Visit Starbucks and you will see everybody’s favourite Peppermint Mocha on the menu. Walk along Orchard Road and you will see the grand light up along the streets. It is official: Christmas is near!

And we know many of you will be staying right here in Singapore, thanks to the amount of Christmas festivities happening all around our island! Who said us Singaporeans do not know how to throw a party?

Here are the 5 Christmas Events Happening In Singapore 2016.

Photo Credit: Gardens By The Bay

#1 MERRY MEDLEY FLORAL DISPLAY AT GARDENS BY THE BAY

We might not have freezing cold climates here in Singapore, but you can experience lower temperatures within the Merry Medley display in the Flower Dome.

Besides admiring the huge 9-metre tall Noble Fir Christmas Tree, you will also be able to find other festive blooms such as the Poinsettia, Christmas Rose, and more.

When: 11 November 2016 – 05 January 2017

Gardens By The Bay
18 Marina Gardens Drive
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 6420 6848
Daily: 5am – 2am
Nearest Station: Bayfront

Photo Credit: The Resorts World Sentosa Blog

#2 SANTA’S ALL-STAR CHRISTMAS AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE

Christmas is always a blast at Universal Studios Singapore (USS). It is where you can experience life-like snow, multimedia light shows, and take in the jolly Christmas spirit.

This year, you can also expect to see the new Santa’s Village—a little space within the park filled with Santa’s little helpers, elves and more!

When: 01 December 2016 – 02 January 2017

Universal Studios Singapore
8 Sentosa Gateway
Resorts World Sentosa
Singapore 098269
Tel: + 65 6577 8888
Daily: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

#3 CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT GARDENS BY THE BAY

Christmas Wonderland is back again this year, and it is set to be bigger and better! The event space is now doubled to accommodate more attractions and rides such as a mini Ferris Wheel and bumper cars. The Snow Playground at the Ice Palace is also two times bigger too.

However, entrance into Christmas Wonderland is no longer free. Admission tickets are going at S$4 from 02 to 04 December 2016, S$6 from 09 to 15 December 2016 and S$8 from 16 December to 01 January 2017.

Find out more about what to expect at this year’s Christmas Wonderland here.

When: 02 December 2016 – 01 January 2017

Gardens By The Bay
18 Marina Gardens Drive
Singapore 018953
Tel: +65 6420 6848
Daily: 5am – 2am
Nearest Station: Bayfront

#4 CHRISTMAS LIGHT-UP ALONG ORCHARD ROAD

This annual affair is one not to be missed. Every year, Singapore’s most popular street comes alive with twinkling lights all around the roads, transforming it into a festive wonderland.

Lots of photo opportunities of course, on top of endless Christmas shopping for our loved ones.

Photo Credit: The Resorts World Sentosa Blog

#5 MERRY FISHMAS AT S.E.A. AQUARIUM

Merry Fishmas is a great way to bring your kids out for some yuletide fun! There are tonnes of activities happening throughout the month of December at S.E.A. Aquarium, including a crafts corner where your little ones can create their own Christmas ornaments!

When: 01 December 2016 – 02 January 2017

S.E.A. Aquarium
8 Sentosa Gateway
Resorts World Sentosa
Singapore 098269
Tel: +65 6577 8899
Daily: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

The year-end holiday season is approaching and it is time to let loose a little, seize the moment and enjoy some time off with our precious families.

Singaporeans are a well-travelled bunch and an online survey has revealed that the average affluent person travels overseas about five times a year.

But travelling need not be a privilege reserved for the wealthy. In fact, with some strategic planning, almost anyone can go on a vacation frequently. There is surely no better way to conclude the year than with a family holiday. And as the saying goes, the early bird gets the worm. Time to start your planning already!

Here are 9 Places to Travel to For Year-End Family Holidays. Do read on more because we’ve got several early bird packages to share. Yes, you can expect discounts off accommodation and air fares too.

#1 BALI

Of gorgeous beaches, scenic temples and luxurious private villas, a family holiday to Bali is one where everyone can kick off their shoes and simply unwind in the company of each other. For interactive bonding sessions, there are cooking classes you can take part in, climb the famous Mount Batur and go on a cafe-hopping adventure around Bali.

The Island of Gods is home to many beautiful holiday resorts, and all UOB card members can now enjoy 8% off their accommodation fees when they book through Zuji with the promo code ‘TRAVELMORE’.

The booking period is available till 04 September 2016 and the travel period is valid till 28 February 2017.

#2 HONG KONG

We have long considered The Pearl of Orient as our second home in Asia for numerous reasons, from their mouthwatering street food, divine Cantonese cuisine, epic nightlife to the sheer number of shopping destinations. The vibrant metropolis’ theme parks – namely Ocean Park and Disneyland – will guarantee your little ones have a smashing good time!

UOB Cardholders, snag yourself a wonderful place to stay using Expedia’s additional 10% off hotel stays with the promo code ‘UOBSG<First 6 Digits of Your UOB Card>. The booking period to enjoy this discount is now till 31 December 2016, with travel period valid till 31 March 2017.

#3 LONDON

London has always been and will always be our favourite city in the world. The capital of England is irresistibly charming in every nook and cranny; we find ourselves hopelessly falling in love with it more and more with each visit. The world’s most photogenic attractions such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge can all be found here.

Other than its must-see attractions, we dare say that London boasts a vast selection of cafes, markets and restaurants that are worth splurging your calories and Pounds on. A visit in December means you have to experience the whimsical Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park with your family.

#4 MELBOURNE

Voted as the world’s most liveable city for five years straight, Melbourne has seriously stolen our hearts forever. The Australian city – also known as the Coffee Capital of the World – is a must-visit for all coffee connoisseurs and foodies at heart. Every cafe is effortlessly impressive, and here’s a warning: There is no turning back once you have had a taste of the best!

Besides its cafes, Melbourne is also the gateway to a several jaw-dropping road trip destinations.

For maximum enjoyment, we strongly encourage everyone to rent a car and self-drive at your own pace. UOB cardmembers can enjoy up to 30% off car rentals at participating AVIS locations worldwide by quoting ‘M504800′.

#5 NEW YORK CITY

New York City is on every traveller’s bucket list for many reasons. But it is more than a vacation pitstop. The global city is where people from all walks of lives converge to chase their dreams. We love the massiveness of The Big Apple and were blown away by the concrete jungle’s magnificent view when standing at the top of the Rockefeller Centre.

The world-famous American city is renowned for its touristy attractions – the iconic Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square and Metropolitan Museum of Art. You and your family members can easily spend a week in this city ticking off these various attractions and dining in NYC’s best restaurants.

Agoda is now offering up to 75% off hotel says + additional 8% off stays in New York City if you book with your UOB Cards. Book by 31 August to enjoy this offer.

#6 PARIS

Paris – the capital of France – is arguably one of the most well-loved European cities. As a global hub for artists, fashionistas and chefs, it is with little surprise that the City of Lights has become a highly sought-after destination for the artistically and gastronomically inclined.

Boasting over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, haute-couture fashion events and the world’s most architecturally significant landmarks, a family trip to Paris will please everyone – the ladies can shop, the men can eat ten meals a day. There is surely something for everyone.

Travel with an ease of mind by insuring you and your family members! UOB Cardmembers enjoy exclusive discounts of 30% off Single Trip UOI Plans and 15% off Annual Multi-Trip UOI Plans.

#7 SAN FRANCISCO

There is so much to do and so much to see in San Francisco. The Californian city – characterised by its old-but-functional tramways and dramatically steep slopes – is worth making a special trip for.

Educate yourselves at the Cable Car Museum, shop till you drop at San Francisco’s Premium Outlets and feast like there’s no tomorrow at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Make your way to San Fran using Korean Air, and enjoy 15% off Prestige Class flights with the promo code ‘KEXUOB15PR’ and 10% off Economy Class flights with the promo code ‘KEXUOB10EY’ when you book with your UOB Cards. There’s no excuse not to visit this amazing city!

#8 SEOUL

A trip to Seoul will be immensely good for the soul. We are avid fans of the capital of South Korea and mind you, we are not even K-pop followers. The city has the most tantalising array of Korean street food and the cafe culture is growing from strength to strength. Cosmetics shopping is one that will occupy you every night too, and even our Dads were unconsciously drawn in to the various shops!

Korean delicacies aside, Seoul is also an ideal destination for families with its multiple attractions such as South Korea’s biggest theme park Everland, Trick Eye Museums, N-Seoul Tower and culinary performance Nanta Show Seoul.

UOB Cardmembers can purchase heavily discounted admission tickets to attractions in Seoul by booking through KLOOK and using the promo code ‘UOBKLOOK’.

#9 TAIPEI

The capital of Taiwan is an exciting Asian city that never sleeps. When you are done with exploring Taipei 101 – one of Asia’s tallest buildings – you have to then check out Taipei’s incredible night markets! There are many, and most of these open-air bazaars open till the wee hours. Get ready to be spoilt rotten with their exhaustive street food options, game stalls and shopping.

Enjoy 5% off your air tickets to Taipei when you book via EVA Air with your UOB Cards. These offers are also valid for nine other destinations and travel periods are available till 31 December 2017.

From now till 04 Sep 2016, UOB Cards Online Travel Frenzy is bringing to you over 60 travel deals – across airfares, hotels, cruises and car rental – that offer up to 75% off!

You can also redeem a free 25” stylish shelled luggage with min. SGD3,800 spend. SMS “OTF< space>your 15 or 16-digit UOB Card number” to 77862 to register. 

Now, with these amazing discounts and offers, do you not look forward to year-end holidays even more?

This post is brought to you by UOB.

As Christmas is drawing near, you might want to book a last minute getaway to a magical winter wonderland; why not pick an ethereal European city to spend the festivity at? We are big fans of the whole Christmasy vibes that European cities have, and holidays never felt more joyous.

Be it strolling along the gorgeous tree-lined streets of Barcelona, or having a romantic dinner by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Europe has endless to offer and most of these cities truly embodies the Christmas spirit.

Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at any one of these cities in our guide to the 12 Best European Cities to enjoy your Christmas holiday at. It is not too late to book your dream holiday!

#1 AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam transforms into a festive wonderland every Christmas, with a whole list of exciting activities that you can add to your itinerary.

This includes the spectacular Amsterdam Light Festival happening from 28 November 2015 to 17 January 2015, various Christmas markets all over the city, outdoor ice skating rings and more!

#2 BARCELONA

If you are not a big fan of snow, Barcelona is for you as it rarely snows in December, so you need not worry about dealing with extreme cold.

What Barcelona has are fabulous light displays, museums and fantastic restaurants that you can dine at for some unforgettable Christmas dinners. Of course, Barcelona is always a fantastic destination for shopping for high street labels, and you can expect lots of sale events.

#3 BERLIN

What this beautiful city prides in is their “collection” of crazy huge Christmas markets that are sure to get you in a jolly festive spirit.

You can ice-skate, ride toboggans, and take part in all the Christmasy activities at Potsdamer Platz – right in the heart of Berlin city. You can even play curling on ice (very popular in Berlin); this is surely something you can not do in Singapore!

#4 BRUSSELS

Brussels is great for ice-skating, especially now that it has moved to the Place de la Monnaie. It is a must to check out the various Christmas markets here and you will be spoilt for choice, we guarantee.

There are ferris wheel and merry-go-round fun too. Oh, Brussels have got some pretty darn mean chocolates that you must try too.

#5 BUDAPEST

Think big scale laser shows, Christmas markets and even hot spring pools at Szechenyi Baths in Budapest. Yes, the hot spring baths (including lovely outdoor ones) are must-visits as a respite from the cold.

Take a river cruise to experience scenic views of the city too, and have a lovely time at the Nutcracker Ballet at the Hungarian State Opera House.

#6 FLORENCE

What you would be happy to know is that Florence’s historical and acclaimed museums are actually less crowded during the year-end festive season, so you can use this opportunity to truly enjoy the artworks.

It is also no surprise that Florence has amazing Christmas markets that are a must-go. You should also head to the Duomo for midnight Mass in Italian on Christmas Eve for an authentic Italian Christmas experience.

#7 LONDON

Never say no to spending Christmas at London. There are almost too many reasons why! Besides the Christmas fairs, insanely beautiful lights and world-class food, London boasts festive vibes that is upbeat and unbeatable.

If you need more reasons, London is a shopping paradise and there are many parks where you can do Christmas picnics at.

#8 PARIS

But of course, Paris is romantic all year long and Christmas is just another reason for us to visit, really.

Watch the Eiffel Tower light up in full glory, sip tea and eat macarons at the many French patisseries, and take a stroll in Jardin des Tuileries. Hop on a carousel in Paris or have a go at an outdoor ice skating ring; we are sure that Christmas in Paris is one you will never forget.

#9 PRAGUE

Prague’s great range of Christmas markets are open daily at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, where you can have a taste of a true blue European Christmas. Look forward to lots of street snacks and merchandise!

Other activities that you can enjoy here are nightly Prague opera and ballet performances. A walk along Charles Bridge with your loved ones will sweeten the winter, too.

#10 ROME

The ancient city of Italy is one that history buffs will love, but hey, a well-deserved holiday here does not mean all Julius Caesar and nothing else.

Hearty Italian meals and fresh morning bakes, street performances and museum visits, and shopping along Spanish steps are but some activities to fill your days. And Navona is our favourite square to appreciate arts.

#11 SALZBURG

This amazing Austrian town is especially known for their Christmas markets set in the jaw-droppingly beautiful Cathedral Square. From traditional craftsmanship to delicious Christmas cookies, you will be in awe with everything that Salzburg has to offer.

For more fun, go skiing or visit a sauna/spa.

#12 VENICE

The lights display will have you swept off your feet here in Venice. It is such a beautiful destination to spend Christmas at; well, Venice is always a great holiday destination anyway.

Immerse yourself in museum-hopping, do some Christmas shopping, take a gondola ride down the canals and have the freshest seafood meal – you deserve it!

Whether you are looking to plan a shopping trip at Paris and London or an Italian escapade, here are 12 essential cost-saving tips for your trip to Europe.