Giants of the river

The 12-hectare River Safari is the newest addition to Wildlife Reserves Singapore’s portfolio of parks and will showcase animals from freshwater habitats inspired by eight of the world’s greatest rivers including the Mississippi, Nile, Mekong, Yangtze and Amazon. Among the unique aquatic and terrestrial animals are endangered river giants such as the Giant Salamander, Giant Freshwater Stingray and Mekong Giant Catfish. 

 

Asia on the go

Hong Kong Airlines is increasing frequency of services to a range of destinations including Bangkok, Taipei, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Kunming, Fuzhou, Sanya and Haikou. A new route between Hong Kong and Xiamen will also be launched in mid-May. The Hong Kong-based airline currently operates flights to more than 30 cities in the region. The frequency increase aims to provide more choices for passengers to popular destinations with higher market demand. Visit www.HongKongAirlines.com.

 

Free Internet for IHG members

InterContinental Hotels (IHG) Group is to provide free Internet to loyalty programme members worldwide. The announcement comes as IHG reveals the results of a global online survey, which shows that nearly half of adults would choose not to stay in a hotel that charged for the Internet. The free connectivity for members will start in July and applies to those staying in the hotel as well as guests stopping over for coffee. 

 

Therapeutic treat

Banyan Tree Chongqing Beibei will be up and running this summer and offers private hot spring pools in each of its 107 suites and villas, allowing guests to enjoy the water’s healing benefits in privacy and comfort. Located 40 minutes from the main city of Chongqing in the peaceful area of Beibei and surrounded by the magnificent landscape of Jin Yun Mountain and Jialing River, the resort will offer 48 Hot Spring Retreats and 59 Hot Spring Villas. Visit www.BanyanTree.com.

 

Right on track

A new bicycle path is opening in the French region of Alsace. The Veloroute du Vignoble will run 140 kilometres from Thann in the south to Marlenheim in the north, according to Alsace tourism officials. The route will mainly go through vineyards. Bicyclists are currently using mainly dirt roads. – DPA

 

A taste for Carinthia

Southern Carinthia’s is playing host to the Alps-Adriatic market in June, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the culinary specialities three countries. Southern Carinthia shares the Slovenian, Italian and Austrian cultures, and the Lake Klopeiner region will be hosting the cultural market from June 6-9. There will also be a dog fashion show, folk music parades and a craftsman market. Visit www.Klopeinersee.at.