Shopping for a chic pied a terre in singapore

An article in the International Herald Tribune talks about the variety of ‘modern luxury condos’ that have been developed in Singapore. Whilst good workmanship and quality of materials have been cited as factors that make Singapore’s condominiums desirable and have allowed its property market to be categorized as aspirational , the rush to tap into the renewed interest in private properties and the craze for ‘modern’ design has spawned varying interpretations of modern, contemporary architecture. Following the early entries into modern development projects(The Loft on Nassim, Paterson Edge) came a slew of less distinguished developments. The progenitor of luxury living and sophisticated, boutique developments, SCGlobal has added BLVD to its luxurious troika of urbane, uptown developments. Even more mainstream developers, more known for generic housing projects have incorporated more edgy design elements to stand out from the rest of the developments. The efforts seem to have paid out - Far east Organization’s ‘Icon’ sold out in an otherwise dreary property market. Located close to the CBD area and next to an MRT station, these loft apartments which afforded buyers a more customized, tailor made package by allowing buyers to choose from a different combination of finishes, this development made headlines when the better units were bought and ‘flipped’- reminiscent of the pre-1996 property boom years. The Central at SOHO similarly employs a more experimental approach towards showflat design and marketing - spiral staircases connected by strings of thick rope and a showflat that opens beyond 10pm on weekend nights. Whilst there are projects that continue to try to distinguish itself by employing radical design ideas(a la the all glass faзade of Edge at Cairnhill, Moshe Safdie’s latest development in Singapore), there are many more that simply adopt vague interpretations of modern, resulting in modern developments of the most contemptible exteriors, undistinguished in its sterilized homogeneity. Older, modern developments Developments distinguished by interesting architecture are by no means a recent phenomenon in Singapore. Some of the more interesting developments include Paul Rudolph’s Colonnade on Grange Road, Moshe Safdie’s Habitat I and II and the Futura apartments on Leonie Hill. Moshe Safdie’s Habitat apartments on Ardmore Park - Habitat I and Habitat II have had different fates - the Habitat I project, with larger units of 3300sqft and above, have benefited from a recent makeover by Eco-Id architects, resulting in a concierge desk of lit, opalescent faux mother of pearl that speaks luxury. The entrance to the pool area is a wide swivel door made of glass with wooden handles and the previously depressingly aged pool has taken on modern, streamlined proportions with a parallel slab of concrete running through its side for architectural impact. The result is a rejuvenated development that is more in synch with the times and keeps up with the avant garde character of the building. Its sister development Habitat II, maisonettes of 2500sqft is sadly up for en-bloc re-development. Paul Rudolph’s Colonnade has similarly had its ground refurbished by Kerry Hill architects and remain a favourite for the expatriate crowd looking to rent spacious apartments in a good location. Size and modernity Going by the recent offerings of ‘modern’ developments, a good square footage of 2000sqft and above does not seem to co-exist with modern design elements without an associated price tag. Most modern developments - the result of enbloc sales and consequent subdivision have yielded paltry square footages of 850sqft for a studio apartment to 1100sqft for a 3 bedroom. Top end luxury developments such as the Grange Residences and BLVD, with a square footage of 2030sqft and up, come with price tags of $4m and above. Savvy home buyers, keen on spacious apartments without the associated price tags have sought out older developments - with run down facilities and common grounds no doubt, but with views of greenery not afforded by the newer developments. The result is often a home with finishes to rival, if not trump - the best developments in the market. Renovated apartments in these older developments have attracted a new niche market - home buyers frustrated by their need for larger space and modern design elements. A new trend, but a significant one nonetheless, judging from the sales of such apartments recently and certainly bids well for the design scene on the property market in Singapore.

Goa beaches

Goa, an endearing abode of scenic charm is a paradise, squeezed between the seas and the lush forested hills. Offering glistening sands, swaying coconut palms and ultra fresh seafood. Your Goa Tours will involve exploring sensuous beaches and historical forts that have kept the legacy of Portuguese alive. Travel to Goa, to explore the mystical charisma of the exotic abode. It is a promise that Goa will add some golden moments in your memorabilia. The whole world knows Goa as the land of fun and frolic, land of mesmerizing beaches or the destination of most effervescent carnivals. However, one thing that instantly strikes you when you land in Goa is the culture. It is just the right blend of ethnic Indian Konkani and the reminiscent Potuguese. On one side there are vast expanses of beaches where the sun, sand and sea conjugate into crystal turquoise waters and on the other, there are lavish Konkani mountains and wild greens. The Goa carnival, a three-day fest, had its birth in Goa during the era of King Momo. One can find a lot of excitement bubbling across Goa, in the month of February, as Goa is dressing up for the carnival festivities. This carnival is celebrated just before the Lent season(Lent is the period of fasting and penance in the Christian calendar and corresponding somewhat to the Mohammedan fast before Ramzan Id),that usually starts off on Sabado Gordo (Fat Saturday) and concludes on Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday)-the eve of Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of the season of Lent. So one can say that this is basically celebrated before going into the rigrous fasting, the whole of Goa gets into the carnival mood or the party mood. Not only human beings but the atmosphere of this place seems to be dancing to the tunes of joy. At the time of carnival the air of Goa is filled with perfume of happiness, the roads are jam-packed with fun and the hearts of the people in Goa is filled with nothing but enjoyment & happiness. These three days of fun & frolic are days of continuous music & dance. Goa is the best place to be visited during the February carnival, to forget all the wordly affairs in the extravagant fun of this carnival & simply flow along in the river of happiness and fun. The memories gathered from the carnival of Goa will never come to an end but they will grow closer to your heart as the time passes away. To know more about GOA visit this site goa-beaches-india

Treat yourself and travel to france

: No country embodies the grandeur of European travel quite like France. From the international artistic reputation of Cannes to the luxurious leisure of the Riviera, France has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to overcome a tumultuous history by enriching the quality of life with those experiences. The diversity of the country will leave you stimulated, satiated and asking for more when you finally treat yourself and travel to France! Throughout European history, France has been the undisputed pioneer of social revolution and cultural renaissance. An enlightened society with classic charm, France will guide your journey seamlessly through centuries of power and progress, defeats and suffering, all of which possess an essence of timelessness. Travel France in July and witness Bastille Day, a commemoration of the destruction of the prison that King Louis XVI and his predecessors used to quiet social disruption and censor or torture public irritants. The day is symbolic of the value of social freedoms and democratic governance to the French people. The main celebration takes place in Paris at the former site of the Bastille. Go further back in time and explore the French countryside, which is rich with Roman Ruins dating up until the 5th Century. Grйoux-les-Bains, in the south of France, is known not only for its hot springs but also for the ruins of Roman bath tubs and swimming pools that depended on these springs as a source for hot water. Aix-en-Provence is a well known town central to France's wine and art culture, but also shares a Roman past as an ancient city with two aqueducts demonstrating the technological prowess of the Roman people. For a more unique experience, travel to the Loire Valley, a bastion of medieval castles, and have yourself a true Chвteaux experience. Many of the ancient and classical castles have rooms available for rent, mainly during the summer season. There is no better way to be immersed in French history; plus, the castles often offer the best of the surrounding wine region. French Travel: More Than a History Lesson Not only is France a gateway into Europe's enchanting history, the country that is world renowned for its irresistible food, fabulous wines and sophisticated lifestyle does live up to its reputation. Visit Nice to enjoy the coveted Riviera way of life while avoiding the throngs of tourists that swarm to St. Tropez just up the coast. While in Paris, make sure to enjoy a quiche lorraine in a local cafй somewhere on the outskirts of town in addition to scaling the Eiffel Tower or getting lost in the Louvre. However you choose to travel, there is no way to miss the robust culture and resilient history of France. For more information on travel to France and other regions in Europe, and discount airfare to France, visit cfares.

Newfoundland and labrador coast

The province of Newfound land and Labrador is a province of history and beauty, is it located on Canada's Atlantic coast. This province can offer some of the neatest sight seeing in the world, from animals to historic sights it all a must. History can be traced back to the Viking age 1000AD where they first settled on this province. You should check out Gros Morne National Park also known as UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a walk through ancient times walking this heritage site, you will learn lots and be exposed to some of the world’s treasures. There are a lot of activities for the families, you can take them on ocean tours, whale spotting, fishing, go hiking around the coast lines, or you can relax along the beach and just enjoy the ocean sounds, a must to relax for the sounds of the big cities. They also have some of the best seafood restaurants, the crab, lobster, different types of fish, and it’s all so fresh right from the ocean. Facts -Largest city is St. John's -Population is 533,800 -10th province admittance into Confederation Date March 31, 1949 -English speaking province -12thTime zone I think that this province is a beautiful province and if you are going to tour eastern provinces do not miss out on this one, there is too much to do and see all in a week so I you can give your self a couple of weeks .

Estartit a beautiful village on the northern coast of spain

The resort Estartit is on the northern coast of Spain and about thirty miles from Gerona airport. It was originally a fishing village but development in this area has turned it into a great holiday destination. The resort Estartit is a small town with a Marina and 6 km of sandy beach looking out to the beautiful Medas Islands, famous for it's marine life. Good holiday accommodation can be found here. Prices suit all pockets, normally at the lower end of the price range. The shops cater for all your holiday needs. The beach is long and sandy and offers all kinds of water sports for you to try. There are diving schools which offer beginners courses for tourists which are ideal, for exploring the coral and aquatic life found just off the coast. A fun fair at the edge of town and mini golf is situated close by. There are plenty bars, discos and hotels with entertainment in this location making it ideal for families with children. Activities such as windsurfing sailing, water-skiing and boat hire are all available. In addition to this Estartit, and in particular the protected Medas Isles are considered one of the best spots on the Mediterranean fore scuba-diving, and numerous diving schools including BSAC and PADI approved centres exist. Diving, Horse Riding Micro lighting Mountain Walks are all available. Sightseeing tours to Barcelona Gerona Figueras Montserrat etc can be booked in the town. The Medes Islands is once the haven of pirates and smugglers these islands can be reached by glass bottomed boat allowing views of the spectacular clear water and marine life. The Aquatic Park is fantastic waterslide park and situated in Rosas and has super fast chutes a Jacuzzi and a pool bar - a fun day out. Like most European holiday resorts there are a huge number of restaurants and fast food outlets. There is traditional food and drinks such as Paella and Sangria and less traditional such as burger and coke. The nightlife is huge and will suit all tastes from Spanish dances to family entertainment to young and lively bars. It therefore can be enjoyed by a number of age groups. The weather is particularly hot in the summer months and therefore the resort is hugely populated. More comfortable weather is normally in the months of May and September and therefore the resort is less populated. The season would normally begin in April and run through to October.