Changes to the Australian Budget

Jun 25 2021

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“Was there anything in the Australian Budget this year which expats should be aware of?”

The Australian Budget was handed down on 11 May 2021 by the Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and could be considered by some as an Election Budget. There was plenty of spending, with a deficit of $106.6 bn, bringing our National debt to $729 bn (which is 34.2% of GDP), and included resident personal and business income tax cuts, offsets, and housing benefits. However, for expats, the budget papers needed to be looked at a little closer and below are the top tips to take note of:

PROPOSED AUSTRALIAN TAX RESIDENCY CHANGES
This is probably the most impactful change for Australian expats and further details on these have been covered in a separate feature at anza.org.sg. The likely date of the change is 1 July 2022, however pending Royal Accent, these could be introduced from 1 July 2021 and will impact expats who are in Australia for more than 44 days in a financial year.

Superannuation Annual Limits
Even as an expat, you can continue to contribute to superannuation, however this is a taxable locked up environment, when for most expats in Singapore, personal investments are Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax free. See table:
Superannuation downsizer contributions reduced to age 60
For those expats who are looking to sell their former main residence (PPR) when they return to Australia and boost their super close to retirement (note you need to sell as a tax resident to now qualify for the PPR Exemption, and you must have owned it for 10 or more years), you have the ability from age 60 to do so and contribute up to $300,000 (each if you are a couple) into super from the house proceeds. Some planning is needed for this option to ensure you meet the criteria so please seek advice before acting.
Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF)
From 1 July 2021 progressively, SMSF’s will be more flexible for expats to hold while living offshore. Currently these basically must be put on ice due to strict Australian residency and control requirements. However, changes will extend the need to have central management and control in Australia from 2 to 5 years and allow members to be able to continue to contribute to their funds while they are an expat. Currently expats must contribute into a separate commercial fund and only roll this amount back into their SMSF when they get back to Australia.

Contact details for consultation
It is important to note that the above is only general advice and everyone’s situation is different. Accordingly, please contact tristan.perry@selectinvestorsaustralia.sg or
+65 9108 6398 (phone or WhatsApp) for an obligation free appointment to discuss your specific circumstances.

The levels and bases of taxation, and relief from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Discover Manly Spirits Co. – a Taste of Australia

Jun 25 2021

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Manly Spirits Co. selection of bottled gins

Manly Spirits Co. showcases sustainable botanical ingredients in an intricate distillation process. The result? Bold, innovative gins which capture the Aussie coastal lifestyle in every sip. Discover this exclusive selection of bottled gin and ready-mixed G&Ts.

Australian Dry Gin

Experience contemporary Australian distillation at its finest with this world class dry gin, featuring foraged botanicals. Discerning gin aficionados appreciate the bright, fresh citrus and peppery notes that emerge while drinking it neat. For a crisp dinner party aperitif, this unforgettable gin adds sophistication to martinis and Negronis. This is a bottle that will stand among modern classics in any well-curated home bar.

Coastal Citrus Gin

Aussie beaches are perfect for long conversations with friends as the last light fades. This gin transports you to your favourite coastline and features two distinct citrus flavours — earthy Lemon Aspen and the more exotic Meyer lemon — complemented by native sea parsley and fresh coriander. Classic juniper gives this gin structure and a smooth finish. Pour it over ice or enjoy it in a classic Collins with lemon slices — then close your eyes and breathe in the sea breeze.

Lilly Pilly Pink Gin

From the wild, windswept coasts of Northern Australia comes the Lilly Pilly, a native botanical that blends with natural raspberry to give this gin its vibrant pink hue. Local limes and blood orange balance out the flavours for a refreshing, zero-sugar gin that is not overly sweet. Savour Lilly Pilly Pink in a classic sour for a delightful brunch or afternoon cocktail, especially gorgeous when garnished with edible flowers and fresh thyme.

Gin & Tonic

For easy drinks to enjoy in the sunshine, this new range of bottled G&Ts combines convenience with small-batch flavour and quality. These 275ml bottles come in two refreshing flavours — the classic G&T with Australian Dry Gin, and a zero sugar, low calorie pink G&T featuring Lilly Pilly Pink Gin. Available in singles or packs of four.

Manly Spirits Co. Gins are available exclusively on Shopee and selected HAOMart stores.

More info:

@effervescence.sg

@manlyspirits

Whatsapp: (+65) 8817 5833

Visit Tanglin Gin Distillery

Jun 22 2021

Since its launch just three years ago, Tanglin Gin has scooped up several prestigious awards, including the coveted Double Gold Award for its Black Powder Gin at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition in 2020 and 2021. The distillery added four more awards this year at the same competition – three gold and one silver – putting them firmly on the map in the gin market.

A tour of the facilities at Mandai gave us a fascinating insight into the painstaking care and effort that the team puts into their distillation process. Taking inspiration from its Chinese name, Twa Tang Leng, and the area’s rich history of growing botanicals like sireh, pepper and ginger, Tanglin Gin produces a wide variety of flavored gins. Our senses went into overdrive as fragrant aromatics, botanicals and other elements used in the production were presented to us.

After learning the history and background of the gin distillation process, we tasted a flight of different Tanglin blends. Before we got started, the Tanglin team taught us the proper steps to gin tasting. Already being primed after smelling and becoming familiar with the different botanicals earlier in the tour, we could appreciate the “nose” and then the taste of the spirit at a whole different level.

We started with the Orchid Gin, a smooth gin which highlights the juniper berries and classic herbal flavors of a typical gin but also offers complex unripe green mango tones from Indian Amchoor powder, combined with distinct undertones from the Vanilla Planifolia Orchid.

We followed with the new Singapore Gin, intended to capture the Singapore spirit and the wide variety of flavours that form the island’s culinary and botanical landscape. This gin is a tongue-tingling experience that hits every tastebud with a combination of young ginger, orange peels, licorice and dry chilli flavors, with a citrusy lime nose. A dynamic and exciting spirit that deserves a place in every Singapore home.

Next, we sampled the Tanglin Barrel Aged gin. This is a smooth and subtle gin, aged in Garrison Brothers Bourbon oak barrels. A sophisticated, classic herbal gin which finishes with bourbon-like “legs” from the aging process.

Our pure gin tasting concluded with the Cacao Gin liqueur, made in collaboration with Lemuel Chocolate – a Singaporean bean-to-bar artisan chocolate maker. Using cacao bean husks and nibs as part of the distillation process, the result is a first layer of fruits and flowers followed by a chocolate undertone and a caramel-like after taste. It makes for a wonderful after dinner spirit.

We finished off with a classic gin and tonic cocktail, opting for the Double Gold Award Winner Black Powder gin. It was extraordinary and more than stood up to the accolades. Make no mistake, this is not a subtle gin and best served as a G&T due to its stratospheric 58% ABV. However, it was one of the most perfect G&T’s we had ever tasted.

The Singapore Gin with its citrus and chilli undertones is also a good choice for a zesty G&T. Served with the aromatic tonic water, it was the perfect Singapore-weather drink.

Tanglin Gin Distillery
5 Mandai Link # 01-6, 728654 Singapore
Tour and tasting $30pp. Book at: https://www.pelago.co/en-sg/activity/p0ftx-tanglin-gin-distillery-tour-singapore/

3 reasons to get international maternity coverage during Covid

Jun 22 2021

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If you have plans to conceive before you travel to/from Singapore (or any other country), attaching international maternity coverage to your health insurance plan is recommended.

No matter where in the world you’ll be, this type of coverage gives you access to first-class maternity services, and doesn’t require you to pay out of pocket. Still unsure? Our friends at Pacific Prime Singapore explain why securing international maternity coverage is a good idea amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. You’ll get coverage for pregnancy-related complications

Pregnancy-related complications can be very costly – especially if the healthcare costs are on the higher side in the country you’re in (such as Singapore). If you’re stuck abroad and complications arise, international maternity coverage gives you access to treatment in the private hospitals and medical facilities of the country you’re in. This is unlike travel insurance.

2. You’ll get to avoid the bureaucratic claims process

The last thing you want to worry about when accessing maternity services is paying hefty fees out of pocket and dealing with a bureaucratic claims process. With international maternity coverage, you’ll get direct billing or cashless treatments, so you can focus solely on receiving care. The insurer typically issues a letter of guarantee (LOG) to the medical facility, which enables the medical facility to bill the insurer directly.

3. You’ll get coverage for COVID-19

Although COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out across the world, the virus still remains a threat at large. If you or your newborn gets diagnosed with coronavirus after travelling, your insurer will cover the cost of treatment up to the benefits of the plan agreed. What’s more, you have the option to request a proof letter for COVID-19 coverage through your insurer or broker.

Interested in securing international maternity coverage? These types of coverage have a waiting period of 10 to 12 months, so it’s best to secure them sooner rather than later. To learn more about all things maternity, download Pacific Prime’s Singapore Maternity Insurance Guide 2020-2021. Alternatively, you can also contact them for personalised advice and a free quote.

6 Hidden Singapore Spots That Feel Like Overseas Destinations

Jun 21 2021

Sang Nila Utama Garden Fort Canning — Sang Nila Utama Garden

Love Bali?

Try… Sang Nila Utama Garden in Fort Canning Park. One of the nine new gardens, its named after the first ancient king of Singapore and features an awe-inspiring Javanese facade, tranquil water features and stunning sunsets. You can’t get much closer to the relaxed party vibes of exclusive Seminyak than Rumours Beach Club, set on the golden sands of Siloso Beach and serving up authentic Indonesian favourites like Nasi Goreng and Satay, alongside pools and great music.

French bread and cheeses — Find authentic French delicatessens in Serangoon Gardens

Love France?

Try…Serangoon Garden’s shopping village. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Singapore, Serangoon Gardens was established in the 1950s. Today, this hip ‘hood is has transformed into Singapore’s unofficial ‘Little Paris’ area, with French bistros, authentic delicatessens, and plenty of places to sip, shop and relax. Pick up a baguette, stinky cheeses and ham off the bone at LPB Market on Kensington Park Road, then head to Maison Kayser in myVillage shopping centre for a café au lait and a pastry.

Love England?

Try… Bukit Timah Saddle Club off Eng Neo Avenue is nestled in rolling green grounds that are reminiscent of the English countryside. Sign up for riding lessons to explore the arenas, trail rides and grass paddocks on over 40 well-trained horses and ponies. Pop in for delicious brunch at Riders Cafe, housed in a heritage black and white building and overlooking the stables.

Love Sydney?

…Try Keppel Bay. A passage for ships from the Strait of Malacca to the South China Sea since the 13^th century, KB is now a modern shopping and lifestyle destination. Sit beside gleaming luxury yachts floating on calm green waters and you’ll swear you’re in Darling Harbour or Sydney Wharf Marina in Pyrmont. Stroll across the Keppel Bay Bridge and the promenade in the cooler hours of the evening, and enjoy a fresh catch or a cool drink by the waterfront at the bright and breezy Bayswater Kitchen. Grab takeaway fish and chips or calamari until dining in resumes!

Love China?

…Try Little Guilin. This serene spot at Bukit Batok Town Park offers spectacular granite rock formations set within a peaceful lake, reminiscent of the limestone karst hills in the Chinese city it’s named after. Wander along the banks and marvel at soaring rock cliffs, calm waters and scenic landscapes, you’ll easily forget you’re still on the Little Red Dot.

Love Bangkok?

Try… Golden Mile Complex, between Nicoll Highway and Beach Road, known as Singapore’s Little Thailand. Enjoy authentic Thai food from Diandin Leluk Restaurant or pick up spicy, delicious noodles, salads and other dishes from any of the takeaway spots in the centre, then visit a Supermarket to pick up hard to source Thai brands and products, ranging from beauty products, to herbal medicines, groceries and snacks.

Move to Tassie and live here!

Jun 17 2021

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8 Esplanade, Lindisfarne

“One of the most impressive properties in Hobart”

For sale now or by Expressions of Interest closing 2 July 2021.

Includes:

7 bedrooms (including studio)

4 bathrooms (plus powder room)

6 living rooms

Land size: 1490m2 approx.

House size: 520m2 approx. (including house, studio, storage, workshop and carport)

Contact: Evan Risley, (Australia) 0438 631 180 or eriseley@petrusma.com.au

This stunning, prestigious property is a rare jewel in the tightly-held Hobart real estate market. Constructed in 1910 and positioned on approximately 1500m2, this grand home was the first residence to be built in the area. With a coveted Esplanade position, in the heart of sought-after Lindisfarne, the property enjoys breathtaking Lindisfarne Bay, Derwent River, Tasman Bridge, Hobart CBD and Mt Wellington views. It’s truly in a league of its own.

With timeless elegance, tasteful modern restoration and updates, a huge and versatile floorplan accommodating various arrangements, and a commanding street appeal and presence within the locale, this masterpiece strikes an imposing figure and is undoubtedly a home that sits comfortably amongst the most impressive properties in Hobart. Welcome to 8 Esplanade, Lindisfarne.

Upon entry to the home, you are greeted by a grand entry foyer, featuring a stunning chandelier and a magnificent blackwood staircase leading to the second level.

The ‘heart of the home’ is found on the first level – a stunning open plan kitchen, living and dining space. The kitchen features magnificent stone benchtops, a large butler’s pantry, quality integrated appliances and gorgeous cabinetry, with modern renovations completed to the highest of standards. Large sliding doors lead out to a large entertaining deck, offering privacy and all-day sun, and the perfect space to entertain family and friends.

Three additional living rooms are also found on the first level, each complete with stunning Federation features, high ceilings and fireplaces. These rooms provide a number of options for use as additional bedrooms or study options. There is also a sunroom and a powder room on this level.

Accommodation is provided by five bedrooms upstairs, two complete with ensuite bathrooms and walk in wardrobes. There is also a main bathroom featuring a shower and bathtub, and a charming mezzanine terrace that enjoys the fantastic views across the bay and beyond. The bedrooms are generously sized, offering built in robes, with each enjoying its own unique view of the water, mountain, or village. The home is kept warm with electric, wood and gas heating throughout.

This wonderful property is complete with a separate two-bedroom studio at the rear of the home, offering a kitchen, bathroom, laundry, living room and two bedrooms. The perfect space to use as a guest house, teenager’s retreat, granny flat or even an Airbnb option for extra income (STCA).

The manicured and stunning landscaped grounds are mostly flat, fenced, private and offer a fantastic outdoor space for children and pets. There is a large undercover parking area, plus an abundance of driveaway space, with plenty of secure parking for a boat and caravan. There is no shortage of storage with a large workshop and extra storage room.

There is no doubt that this glorious home presents a once in a generation opportunity and must be seen to be truly appreciated.

Ideally located in the popular bayside suburb of Lindisfarne and offering one of the very best lifestyle options available in Hobart’s booming property market, the home is less than 10 minutes to Hobart’s CBD, 15 minutes to the airport and a short walk to Lindisfarne Village with an abundance of shops, schools, parks and reserves, and public transport.

Father’s Day Fun!

Jun 15 2021

HydroDash

Let’s face it, most dads are big kids at heart. Take yours to climb, slide, leap and bounce his way through HydroDash, Singapore’s very first floating aqua park. Dads will love the challenge of trying to beat the kids around the thrill-seeking floating obstacle course. Book in for a one- or two-hour slot, and have a blast on Palawan Beach, one of Sentosa’s most picturesque stretches of sand. Prices start at $13 for kids (adult ticket included).

https://www.hydrodash.com.sg/

Sunday Roast

Miss Fitz is offering a Father’s Day Special Sunday Roast available for takeaway/delivery on 20 June. Tuck into a delectable set menu ($45+ per person) that features Mediterranean dishes with fresh herbs and produce. Enjoy Shaved Jamon, Cured Salmon Montadito, Mushroom Croquettes, Roasted Lamb Shoulder, Rosemary Potato Fondant, Sautéed Greens in Mustard and Butterhead Lettuce Sauce. Finish with a choice of classic Apple Crumble or Lemon Tart for dessert. Pre-orders are available via phone at 8129 4617.

Cheers, Dad!

Maker’s Mark, the original handmade bourbon whisky from Kentucky, is marking Father’s Day 2021 with a one-of-a-kind gift option. Purchase a bottle of Marker’s Mark and add a personalised message for your Dad on the label. Include Dad’s name and a heartwarming Father’s Day message to bring a smile to Dad’s face. Find it at selected Cold Storage outlets or place your orders online at Wines & Spirit SG for next day delivery. From $58.

Coastal Playgrove at East Coast Park

Got a Dad who loves to play? This huge new playground features water play, slides, a nature playgarden and Spiderman style climbing fun. At the site of the former Big Splash East Coast Park, entry is free and brave Dad’s can try their hand at ascending the tallest outdoor play feature in town at 16 dizzying metres high. It’s easy to spend a few hours at the park, with fun climbing activities, long metallic tube slides, a nature play-garden with sandpits and teepees, and a water play creek running through the middle of the pleasant green space. Grab an ice cream, coffee or pizza to go from the onsite F&B outlets, including Picotin Express.

Singapore Wake Park

Does your Dad love water sports? Take him to Singapore Wake Park at East Coast Lagoon. It is the country’s only cable ski park built in a lagoon, which ensures a safe environment for both beginners and experienced riders looking for an adrenaline fix. The park features three cable-systems to cater to all levels of experience. Grab some local takeaway fare from nearby East Coast Lagoon Hawkers, or some delicious seafood from the nearby Jumbo Seafood.

Father’s Day Family Feasting at Home

Treat Dad to a three-course meal and an ice-cold beer at home this Father’s Day with Level 33’s three-course menu, featuring tomato carpaccio, a roast pork collar ciabatta sandwich and tiramisu. They’ve got plenty of beer options to keep Dad’s thirst quenched, from Blond Lager to India Pale Ale, Stout and Wheat Beer. $66+ for the three-course menu. Quote “SELFPICKUP” to get 20% off the total bill for self-pickup or drive-through.

Brunch at Home

Want to treat Dad to an epic brunch on Father’s Day? Indulge in brunch at home with Xperience’s takeaway brunch set from So Sofitel. The spread includes beef striploin, jerk marinade roast chicken, and much more! A yummy dad’s day feast for the whole family. Takeaway/Delivery: medium brunch set $128+ (serves 2-3 people) or large brunch set $208+ (serves 4-5 people). * three-day pre-order required. https://www.so-singapore.com/wine-dine/so-takeaway/

Seafood Special

Ahoy! If your dad loves seafood, they will adore this catch of the day. Porto’s indulgent grilled seafood platter brims with a variety of premium catches, all lovingly grilled with a homemade marinade made with 15 types of herbs and spices. This platter of goodness is ideal for sharing. Available for delivery on 19 & 20 June. Platter for 2 ($148+) Platter for 4 ($288+)

Order here: Father’s Day Seafood Grill Platter (19 & 20 June) (porta-park-hotel-clarke-quay.myshopify.com)

Hotspot: Canchita Peruvian Cuisine

Jun 14 2021

Canchita Peruvian Cuisine

Block 9A & 9B Dempsey Road, Singapore 247698

www.canchita.sg

Travel to Latin America with Dempsey newcomer, CANCHITA Peruvian Cuisine. Led by Head Chef Tamara Chavez, the restaurant occupies a sprawling 3,386 sq ft space across two building blocks, but they also run a handy home delivery service.

The breezy, fun eatery aims to showcase the diversity of Latin American cuisine and culture, with a strong focus on authentic Peruvian dishes and spirits. We start with Patacones ($14++) – crispy plantain crackers served with smooth avocado guacamole. That whets our appetite for the two cocktails we ordered. First up, the Gin & Chica ($22), a sweet, mellow blend of gin, spiced purple corn, and green apple. The Chilcano ($22) also goes down well, a Pisco-centred, slightly spicy cocktail with turmeric ginger, citrus, and bitters, topped with ginger ale.

Next on the food menu is the Arroz Con Mariscos ($34), crayfish and seafood rice tossed with Peruvian panca chilli, crab butter, white wine, and tomatoes. It’s delicious; packed with fresh, juicy seafood and tangy, risotto style rice. Seafood lovers will also appreciate the Ceviche Classico ($25++ in house, $28++ for takeaway), a classic recipe featuring fresh fish, marinated in white tiger’s milk, topped with red onions, sweet potato and canchita. Our favourite is the Chicken Taco ($16 for 2) – Mexican style tacos with corn tortilla, chicken, beans, onion, smoky mayo, and chilli sauce.

Ending on a sweet note, we fight over the Alfajores ($14) – a traditional Latin American sweet with lashings of rich, dark Dulce de Leche sandwiched between delicately crumbly butter cookies, served with a tangy pineapple compote.

Verdict: Bright, fresh, authentic Latin American flavours, delicious cocktails and a fun venue. Great for a group meet-up when it’s possible or enjoyed at home with family anytime!

To make dine-in reservations in advance, call 6232 7895, WhatsApp +65 8028 1994, or email info@canchita.sg

Takeaway or delivery orders can be placed via https://canchitaperuvianrestaurant.oddle.me/en_SG , WhatsApp +65 8028 1994 , or email info@canchita.sg.

Cultural Activities for Kids

Jun 14 2021

Dale Chihuly: Glass in Bloom

https://www.chihulyinbloom.com/

This renowned American artist has brought 25 of his magnificent large-scale installations, as well as more than 80 pedestal sculptures and two-dimensional works, to Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and outdoor gardens. Kids will love marvelling at the colourful glass sculptures and learning more about the artist behind them. On until 1 August.

Gallery Children’s Biennale

childrensbiennale.com

Unlock your child’s creativity with the third edition of Gallery Children’s Biennale. Alongside interactive artworks at National Gallery Singapore, the art experience returns with its first hybrid “phygital” edition. Start with an online experience via the colourful microsite, which features tons of fun activities for 3–12-year-olds and follow up with an onsite visit to view this year’s art installations at National Gallery Singapore from September 4. Also at the gallery is the Keppel Centre for Art Education, a dynamic space for kids, with year-round programmes. nationalgallery.sg/gallerykids/keppelcentre

The Podcasting Way – Singapore Book Council workshop

http://bookcouncil.sg

Have your kids (or you!) ever wanted to make a podcast? No idea where to start? Join bestselling Aussie author and One More Page podcast host Nat Amoore, to learn the basics of creating your podcast content. This workshop will cover planning, scripting, interviewing, recording, and editing. Thurs, 24 June 2021, 4-6pm

Star Wars Identities: The Exhibition

https://www.marinabaysands.com/museum/exhibitions/star-wars-identities.html

Based on a galaxy far, far away, this exhibition presents nearly 200 original items from the extensive Lucas Museum of Narrative Art archive and explores the science of identity through the characters of Star Wars. Visitors will embark on a customised, interactive identity quest to gain new insights on the Star Wars characters, while discovering their own identities at the end. In even better news – the exhibition has extended its stay until June 27.

Virtual Realms: Videogames Transformed

http://marinabaysands.com/museum/exhibitions/virtual-realms.html

Video games take centre stage at ArtScience Museum in this new exhibition. Making its global premiere in Singapore, Virtual Realms is curated by the Barbican, in co-production with ArtScience Museum and Melbourne Museum. Co-curated by celebrated Japanese video game designer, Tetsuya Mizuguchi, this multi-sensorial exhibition re-imagines video games as a 21st century artform. The exhibition brings together interactive works by six of the world’s leading video game developers, who have collaborated with top media design studios to create a series of large scale, immersive installations. From June 12 – Jan 9 2022.

Asian Civilisations Museum

https://www.nhb.gov.sg/acm

Travel through 5000 years of Asian cultures at the Asian Civilisations Museum. Kids can learn about art, culture and history in Asia – from ancient calligraphy, to a Tang Shipwreck, to Japanese culture and craftsmanship. Check out an array of woodblock prints and photography at the current Life in Edo | Russel Wong in Kyoto exhibit.

Georgette Chen: At Home in the World
nationalgallery.sg/georgettechen

Georgette Chen Li Ying was a famous Singaporean painter known for her post-Impressionistic oil paintings at the turn of the 20th-century. Get the kids acquainted with her work at An Artist’s Tropical Landscape, which encourages children 6-12 to explore the fascinating world of tropical fruit, one of Chen’s prominent subject matters. Don’t miss the life-sized Rambutan Room for augmented reality kinetic games. Until 26 September.

Got a kid who prefers action over the arts? Check out our feature on Kids School Holiday Adventure Activities

Setting Sail on Quantum of the Seas

Jun 11 2021

Since the Cruise to Nowhere initiative launched in Singapore last November, more than 120,000 passengers have made their way through the Marina Bay Cruise Centre to cruise on either Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas or Genting’s World Dream. The “sea-cation” has become a popular holiday choice for families, with tons of on-board activities for kids. Personally, I never thought I would be writing about going on a cruise as I’ve never once in my life had a desire to go on one, but what can I say? These are strange times. Was it worth getting a COVID-19 test for? Yes. Should you consider it? Absolutely. From booking to disembarking, the experience with Royal Caribbean International was professional and well organised. Our family of four booked a ‘3 Night Ocean Getaway’ which was a comfortable duration, giving us two full days to enjoy many of the attractions and activities on offer. You can also book a two or four-night getaway. There are four cabin options including Interior, Sea View, Balcony or Suites catering for singles to large groups.

Dining options

Quantum of the Seas has multiple dining options; those included in your package and other options including Jamie’s Italian, Japanese, a steakhouse grill or noodles – if you feel like something extra special or different. The kids particularly enjoyed the Windjammer buffet for breakfast; the spot to go if you have early starters. There are 11 bars or lounges to enjoy a tipple or two. The Bionic Bar is a popular attraction and a bit of a novelty. Two robot bartenders mix drinks via orders made on tablets.

Activities

After breakfast, we went poolside where the kids put their soda package and unlimited soft serve ice-cream to good use. We tried out the “Flowrider”, a 12-metre surf simulator. The kids felt it was worth the wait in the long queue. In the evenings we booked into the shows on offer, which did not disappoint.
We also squeezed in some arcade action, Harry Potter trivia, a drink in the Bionic Bar, a couple of hours in Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean Youth Programme for the kids, and a card game or two at the casino for the adults. We still didn’t manage to see and do everything, including the North Star observation capsule, skydiving simulator, Vitality Spa or Rock Climbing. Surprisingly, we all came home feeling well rested.

With regard to hygiene, there wasn’t a question in my mind that our family were at risk in any way. With mandatory testing, hand washing or hand sanitation when entering shared spaces, reduced occupancy, frequent cleaning and more, every effort is made to ensure passengers and crew are safe. Quantum of the Seas is a remarkable ship and the Cruise to Nowhere is an initiative that has kept thousands of people in employment and given fortunate cruisers a unique and wonderful holiday experience. The most impressive thing for me, however, was the crew. At the time we sailed, they had not left the ship since November (five months) and despite having taken care of thousands of passengers, they were still incredibly professional, kind and accommodating.

At the time of writing, Royal Caribbean International announced it was extending its Quantum of the Seas cruises until October this year. With COVID-19 making the future of leisure travel unpredictable, it seems possible the sea-cation will become less a current fad and more a permanent holiday option. Many of our friends have already booked again.
Bon Voyage!

Before you board:

Read all communications very carefully after booking
Download the Royal Caribbean app
Get your COVID-19 test
Watch the safety videos before boarding
If you would like internet access on board it’s easy to buy it in your package before boarding. Note: you can use the Royal Caribbean app without purchasing internet.

Things to Note:

To maximise your first day, check in early. There is plenty to do on board while your luggage arrives to your room. Pack your swimmers in a carry on if you feel like going poolside.
Many activities and events require you to pre-book on the app. Book early to avoid disappointment (don’t mention the bumper cars to my kids!)
Each member of your family will be given a card called a “Sea Pass”. You will be required to use it to swipe in and out of different areas of the ship along with making purchases and note that all prices are in USD. Be warned – our friends’ kids had a fantastic time in the arcade using their Sea Passes and there was a ‘not small’ surprise on their account at the end of the day.
Each person is required to wear a wrist band token and children are required to wear another wrist band in the event of an emergency. Head to Guest Services if you need a replacement.
If you are traveling with children and they would like to go to the Adventure Ocean Youth Programme, you need to first register them in person and also book their session by calling ahead.
The ship docks at 6AM on the final day. The evening before you will have numbered luggage tags delivered to your room and you will be directed to tune in to one of the television stations to see what time your number will be scheduled to disembark the following day. We had time for a final breakfast at Windjammer before saying our farewells.

royalcaribbeanincentives.com/ship/quantum-of-the-seas

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