Meet the NZ All Blacks Rugby Sevens captains & win tickets to Rugby 7s!

Mar 25 2025

Australia’s Isabella Nasser breaks through the New Zealand defense in the cup final on day three of the HSBC SVNS 2024 in Singapore. Photo credit: Mike Lee – KLC fotos for World Rugby

The Asia leg of the HSBC Rugby Sevens Series makes its way to Singapore on 5 – 6 April 2025 and promises world-class rugby sevens, non-stop entertainment, and an all-day party!

Three days of non-stop Rugby 7s action on the pitch will determine the best teams in the world as they go head-to-head. After a thrilling season, HSBC SVNS Singapore marks the final regular season round of the competition. The top eight men’s and women’s teams at the end of the Singapore event will head into the World Championship, taking place for the first time in Los Angeles on 3 – 4 May.

As the excitement mounts, we’re giving away 4 x General Admission tickets to next week’s event in Singapore. Click here to enter by 9am, 2 April.

Ahead on next week, we catch up with New Zealand All Blacks Sevens captains, Dylan Collier and Isabella Nassar, who are ready to take the field here in the Lion City.

What can fans expect from the Rubgy 7s overall?

Dylan: “It’s really exciting. You never know who is going to win week-to-week. It should be a lot of fun and tough competition ahead.”

Isabella: “A lot of excitement! It’s a very competitive series this year, with many teams pushing for the top spots, so there will definitely be plenty of thrilling rugby.”

Which teams are the hardest to beat?

Dylan: “Hopefully, we’ll be the hardest to beat, but the Aussies and Argentina have been doing well, along with the Fiji boys. There are probably about ten teams that can win the tournament on their day. The competition is fierce.”

Isabella: “That’s a tough question as they’re all so good! France are really strong this year, and New Zealand are always a strong contender. The USA are coming off the Olympics … so I can’t pick!”

How do you like playing in Singapore?

Dylan: “We always have great support there. It’s pretty hot, so the indoor stadium is awesome. Every time we go, the fans are amazing and show great support. We’re hoping that will help us again, and we can make it a three-peat.”

Isabella: “In Singapore, I love the environment and the energy the crowd brings. It’s a different vibe compared to other stops on the series – we’ve had cold weather in Vancouver, and then Singapore is very hot. Hot rugby is always great, and the vibe and energy in the air are awesome and welcoming.”

What do you most love about Rugby Sevens?

Dylan: “It’s probably the most demanding game I’ve ever played. It covers all aspects of the sport and demands so much from you as an athlete.”

Can you explain the differences between the Rugby 15s and 7s?

Isabella: “I really enjoy how fast-paced Sevens is. I love the amount of space you get to play with. Plus, you get to travel the world, which is a great bonus. Both formats are awesome, and it’s great that players can now play both if they want to.”

What makes a good Sevens player?

Dylan: “It definitely helps to be fast – speed kills! It’s a combination of everything, though. You need to be a well-rounded athlete with skills in passing, jumping, and kick-offs, but speed certainly helps.”

Isabella: “A good Sevens player is someone who is really hardworking. It’s a pretty physical game, so you need to be willing to go the extra mile to chase down or finish a break. You have to be good at a lot of things to be good at it!”

What’s a typical year like on tour with the Sevens?

Dylan: “Being immersed in all the different cultures is pretty awesome.”

Isabella: “It’s busy – very busy! You don’t stay in one place for long, but it’s an amazing lifestyle and job. I get to travel the world with my closest friends, meet new people, and see different countries. There’s not much to complain about, really!”

Any plans for your downtime in Singapore?

Dylan: “Everywhere in Singapore is great. The gardens are beautiful, and Sentosa Island with its theme park is always fun. The boys have been there before. And we love the food – it’s so good!”

Isabella: “Last year, we went to a fantastic food market and food was incredible! We also went to the theme park and enjoyed the really fun rides. I love everything about Singapore; it’s probably one of my favourites.”

What are some smart money rules for expats in SG?

Mar 24 2025

Sponsored Content

While the rules for personal finance are largely universal, living as an expat in Singapore offers unique opportunities to optimise your financial situation. If you’re planning to return home someday, it’s important to ensure that your time in Singapore leaves you with more than just hazy memories and some teak furniture!

RULE #1 Save at Least 20% of Your Income

Living in Singapore, you’re likely paying less income tax than you’re accustomed to or compared to what you’d pay in countries like Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or many others. Don’t let this opportunity slip by. It’s tempting to increase your lifestyle with the extra income, thinking of it as a ‘pay rise from the taxman’. However, those who are most successful with their finances will prioritise saving this additional money and using it to accelerate their wealth-building. If you can, aim to save more than 20% — although 20% is a great starting point.

RULE #2 Mind the Gap

Unless you’re a Singaporean Citizen or PR, you likely won’t have automatic retirement savings, such as a Superannuation or Pension. These are often the prime earning years of your life, so don’t allow a significant gap to form in your retirement savings. Act now to plug that gap by redirecting the funds you would typically invest back home into other investments.

RULE #3 Plan Ahead for Future Tax Implications

One of the standout advantages of living in Singapore is the ability to invest and enjoy capital gains without the burden of capital gains tax. However, once you leave Singapore, this benefit may no longer apply, and you’ll likely face a more taxing regime. Depending on where you’re moving to, there may be opportunities to preserve these tax-free gains for the long term, and even for succession planning. The earlier you start, the better – don’t wait until it’s too late to maximise tax efficiencies that will benefit you in the long term.

RULE #4 Manage the Risk of Company Shares

Many expats receive share awards as part of their compensation package, and over time, these can accumulate significantly, becoming a substantial portion of your overall net worth. It’s crucial to periodically divest to mitigate the risk of having too much reliance on a single company’s performance. After all, while the company provides your income and contributes to your net worth, what would happen if things were to take an unexpected turn?

RULE #5 Be Patient and Avoid High-Risk Investments

With the ease of setting up trading accounts these days, everyone is an armchair tipster, and it’s tempting to try to get rich quickly by taking excessive risks. However, it’s wise to avoid buying and selling individual shares, and very dangerous to use leverage (such as CFDs – Contracts for Difference) or to engage in Foreign Exchange trading. The potential for loss is high, and the odds are that you will lose more than you gain. Not only will it drain your time, energy, and mental peace, but it’s also far more effective to invest in diversified, long-term strategies like mutual funds or passive index funds, which can help you compound wealth gradually.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. You are advised to seek independent tax advice from suitably qualified professionals before making any decision as to the tax implications of any investment.

David Reynolds (david.reynolds@sjpp.asia)
Partner at Select Investors, Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

Pampered pets: Singapore’s luxe pet hotels & services

Mar 24 2025

For those of us living in pet-loving Singapore, travelling for business or pleasure can come with one major stress – where to leave your four-legged friends while you’re overseas. Thankfully, the red dot has seen a rise in luxury pet hotels and high-end services offering safety and comfort for animals when the humans head off.

At the forefront of this trend is Singapore’s famous five-star dog hotel, The Wagington (thewagington.com.sg). Located in a 1920’s officer’s quarters in Dempsey, The Wagington offers a fabulous blend of impeccable pet facilities and tailored services, ensuring peace of mind for cat and dog owners, and a proper pawty for pets!

The inspiration behind it stems from the personal experience of expat owner Francis Higgins, who found himself struggling to locate suitable accommodation for his British Bulldog, Bobo, back in 2013. “I needed to travel to the USA for three weeks, but I had huge trouble finding a suitable place for Bobo to stay,” Francis shares. “Most options were small shophouses with little space or non-air-conditioned kennels, which I didn’t feel happy with.”

Inspired by the pet hotels he came across while travelling in Hollywood and Beverley Hills, Francis came up with the brainwave to open a hotel solely for pets in Singapore.

Putting on The Ritz

Rooted in a British theme, The Wagington offers various accommodation options for cats and dogs, from cosy rooms to lavish lodgings. Signature suites like the Royal Suite for Dogs and the Palace Suite for Cats provide high-end amenities, including large beds, TV’s, and cat trees. “We designed the rooms to reflect the luxury of UK hotels like The Savoy, The Dorchester, and The Ritz. Our guests – whether canine or feline – deserve the best,” Francis says.

Outdoor areas are covered in AstroTurf, and the grounds are sprayed with ozone water to eliminate bacteria. For dogs, there’s a bone-shaped swimming pool for daily doggy dips, complemented by two play areas – one for petite and cutesy canines and another for heftier hounds.

Beyond the luxurious living spaces, grooming services are available such as mud spas, teeth brushing, and nail clipping. Daily walks around the lush Dempsey area keep pets physically and mentally engaged, and regular swims are a particular favourite activity. “A lot of the dogs love the water and it’s the highlight of their day,” Francis continues. For those with special dietary needs, the dining menu features BARF raw meat and balanced meals to keep pets at peak health throughout their stay.

Protection and wellbeing are top priorities. All pups undergo a temperament evaluation before entering The Wagington to ensure safe interactions with other pets. “Dogs must be neutered and socialised well with other dogs,” explains Francis, adding that the hotel staff are specially trained in pet care, including first aid and CPR, ensuring every guest receives the upmost attention.

Infrared cameras offer constant surveillance, so owners can check in on their pets at any time – whether from a beach on Bintan or a boardroom in Bali. Francis continues, “We’ve even had pets stay with us for over six months at a time while waiting to be accepted from Singapore into Australia. Thankfully, our repeat customers know they can trust us to care for their pets just as they would.”

For Francis, the hotel is more than just a business – it’s a labour of love. “We’re creating an experience, not just a place to drop off animals,” he says, highlighting that the hotel’s mission is to give pets a memorable stay, whether they’re lounging about or receiving plenty of supervision from our staff. “We have staff with the animals all the time, so a lot of attention is given to teaching dogs discipline and appropriate behaviour in a pack environment. ”

Still worried that Fido might miss you while you’re gone? Give full permission beforehand and friends can check in on your beloved on your behalf.

Our guests – whether canine or feline – deserve the best

Left: Godpawrents offer pet boarding in SG. Right: Daily exercise with K9 Matters

Home from home

While establishments like The Wagington offer a fantastic high-end service, some pet owners prefer to utilise a more personalised (and less spendy) style of care when they travel, such as a pet boarding service. Founded in 2024 by Maurice Png, Godpawrents (godpawrents.com) connects cat and dog owners with a trusted network of “godpawrents” who offer pet boarding in Singapore alongside daycare, dog walking, and house visits.
Maurice recognised the need for affordable pet care a few years ago as pet abandonment rates in Singapore rose due to rising costs. “The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) reported a 3x increase in animal abandonment in 2023 compared to 2022,” he says. “We offer an affordable, intimate service that allows pets to stay in familiar environments.”

Godpawrents cater to those seeking a more home-like, flexible option of accommmodation, with less of the hotel chic, but with all of the love, kindness and comfort.
Boarding at a Godpawrent’s home starts at $40 per night. With over 400 verified “godpawrents” to choose from, pet owners can schedule meet-and-greets and select the best caregiver for them. All of Godpawrents’ freelancers are thoroughly screened and possess relevant pet experience, whether as pet owners, individuals working with pets, or volunteers with pets. The freelancers on their books include veterinary nurses, groomers, volunteers at animal welfare groups, community cat caregivers, foster carers, zoo interns, and former dog unit national servicemen.

Indeed, independent dog trainer Glen Chew began his career in the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), where he served as Trainer in Charge for the Singapore Search Platoon. Specialising in training working dogs for fire investigations, post-blast scenarios, and search-and-rescue missions, Glen realised after several years that there was an opportunity to assist pet owners with their dogs. He then established K9 Matters (k9matters.sg), which provides full-time training and daycare services for dogs. One of the standout features is the management and individual attention each dog receives. “Our daycare is not just about watching pets while their owners are away. It’s about creating a safe, enriching environment where dogs can interact, socialise, and be looked after based on their needs,” Glen explains.

While K9 Matters does not offer boarding, Glen does have sage advice for those leaving their pets for an extended period: “Selecting the best caregiver for your dog is essential, as is having a ‘meet and greet’ before making any decisions,” he says. “Meeting in person allows both the pet and the owner to get a feel for the place and the person. Ask for reviews and recommendations, and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to look elsewhere.”

Certainly, for your best furry friend, it’s crucial to choose wisely to ensure your time apart is paws-itive for everyone involved.

From bugs to the IB: A creative connection

Mar 20 2025

Sponsored Content

“Ms. Jess, look! I’m a principled spider! I tidied up straight away,” proudly announced Madelyn, age 4, as she showed off her new sticker. “Principled” isn’t a word you’d typically hear from a four-year-old, but at the Canadian International School (CIS) Early Years campus, it’s a common occurrence. Here, our students are empowered to take ownership of their learning, growing holistically into confident, positive contributors to their community.

At the core of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Early Learner framework are four essential features: relationships, learning spaces, play, and symbolic exploration and expression. At CIS, we delved deeply into these elements and realised that to fully bring them to life, we needed to collectively empower our students using the IB Learner Profile attributes as our foundation.

What Are the IB Learner Profile Attributes & Why Are They Important?

The IB Learner Profile consists of 10 key attributes: thinker, principled, caring, reflective, balanced, risk-taker, communicator, knowledgeable, inquirer, and open-minded. These values form the foundation of the IB’s approach to education, emphasising not just academic excellence, but also personal development, social responsibility, and emotional intelligence. In an IB World school like CIS, these attributes are not taught in isolation but are woven into the curriculum and daily interactions, helping children see the relevance of these values in their own lives.

At CIS, we focus on bringing these attributes to life through play, creative exploration, and reflection. You may wonder: How do you teach such complex concepts to multilingual three- to seven-year-olds and expect them to demonstrate these attributes?

Bringing the Attributes to Life

The journey began with a simple yet powerful idea — bugs. During last year’s kindergarten musical, students were inspired by the insects they encountered in our Outdoor Discovery Centre and in the pages of our Early Years library books. Their creativity soared as they drew colourful bug characters, each one unique, reflecting the diverse world around them. This idea quickly expanded, and our entire stairwell was lined with student-made insect artwork.

As the bug fascination grew, we saw an opportunity to integrate the IB Learner Profile attributes into our students’ creations. Bugs, with their distinct behaviours and characteristics, offer a fascinating lens through which young learners can explore complex concepts. Whether it’s the careful balance of a dragonfly or the collaborative spirit of a group of ants, these tiny creatures can teach big lessons about personal development and community values.

Xuan P., a five-year-old student, explains, “Dragonfly is balanced because she has two wings on both sides, and she flies high in the sky and then flies low on the water.” By allowing students to connect their own insect creations to IB attributes, we gave them an opportunity to reflect on and articulate how they can embody these values in their own behaviour.

Creative Connections

Building on the students’ excitement, we created a song and animated cartoons for each Learner Profile attribute, introduced at weekly assemblies to make the concepts more accessible and memorable. To celebrate our multicultural community, music and art teachers collaborated on a trilingual song in English, French, and Mandarin, reinforcing the vocabulary while honouring cultural diversity. To ensure inclusivity, we worked with our Move-to-Learn teacher, Mr Jorge Aguiar, to incorporate sign language, allowing students to engage with the song through both lyrics and movement. This approach supported multilingual learners and made the experience accessible to all abilities.

To keep students motivated, we introduced a fun way to reward positive behaviour: stickers! What four-year-old doesn’t love one? We turned the student-created insect characters into stickers, each representing an IB Learner Profile attribute. Teachers could instantly praise students for demonstrating these behaviours in all of our learning spaces, and the stickers became a visual reminder of their personal and collective growth and the attributes in action.

A Lasting Impact: Empowering Young Learners

Through these creative and inclusive methods, we’ve seen students not only connect with but embody the attributes of the IB Learner Profile. Whether it’s helping a friend, thinking critically about a challenge, or balancing their emotions, they are internalising these values in meaningful ways.

By valuing and then turning student creations into learning tools, we have created a lasting connection between their imaginations and the values we strive to instill. The bugs, animations, song, and sign language continue to remind students that the attributes they see in their characters are the same qualities they can develop within themselves.

With the added boost of immediate positive reinforcement through stickers, a multilingual song uniting our students in common vocabulary, and the inclusion of sign language, we are nurturing young learners who are principled, caring, thoughtful, communicators, risk-takers, balanced, inquirers, knowledgeable, reflective, and open-minded—all with the help of a few delightful bugs!

Visit Us and See the Magic in Action

If you’re curious to learn more about how creativity, play, and the IB Learner Profile shape our students’ journeys, join us for our Early Years Open Houses. Discover firsthand how our innovative approach empowers children to reach their full potential.

We’d love to show you how your little one can thrive at the Canadian International School. Register for Open House.

www.cis.edu.sg
or call 6738 8088

ANZA Cycling take on Taupo

Mar 19 2025

Talk about talented! Five members of ANZA Cycling – Melanie Speet, Haythem El Ansary, Vlad Dzurilla, Russel Van Der Water, and Trent Standen – recently faced off against the world’s elite triathletes at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Taupo, New Zealand.

Under the glorious New Zealand sun, the athletes tackled the challenging course: a 1.9km swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo, followed by a demanding 90km bike ride through the picturesque countryside. The final leg was a gruelling 21km run along the stunning lakefront.

Individual Highlights

Proving that everyone’s journey is individual, and skillsets are never the same, Melanie emerged from the water first in her age group, showcasing her impressive swimming prowess.

Russel battled through debilitating cramps during the run, finding strength and support from a fellow competitor.

Haythem delivered a blistering run, completing the half marathon in an incredible one hour and 30 minutes. Meanwhile, Trent overcame pesky mechanical issues on his bike to finish strong, demonstrating his resilience and determination.

A big pat on the back goes to Vlad, who achieved a personal best time, a testament to his hard work and dedication on this challenging course. “It was an amazing experience at my first Ironman 70.3 World Champ in Taupo,” he says. “I enjoyed swimming in crystal waters, biking in the picturesque countryside, and finally running alongside Lake Taupo, where I put everything on the table to dig deep to deliver my PB. Crossing the finish line was an emotional moment for me.”

As we approach the 2025 season, ANZA’s triathletes are gearing up for another year of exciting challenges.

Empowering Youth Through Cycling

ANZA Cycling has partnered with Cambodian organisation REACH Siem Reap (reachsiemreap.org), who are focused on empowering children through cycling. This exciting initiative aims to leverage the power of cycling to improve the lives of young people in the city.

The partnership involves ANZA Cycling members contributing their time and expertise to support the organisation’s programmes. We’re looking at:

Coaching and mentoring: Sharing cycling skills and knowledge with local children
Equipment donations: Contributing used but still functional bicycles and cycling gear
Volunteer work: Assisting with the organisation’s daily operations and community outreach. This partnership can have a significant positive impact on the lives of children in Siem Reap, providing them with opportunities for physical activity, social development, and personal growth.

Interested in getting involved? Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or simply passionate about supporting this cause, reach out to ANZA Cycling at info@anza.org.sg for more on how you can contribute to this initiative.

ANZA Soccer Mid Term Camp 2 – 4 April

Mar 19 2025

ANZA Soccer Mid Term Camp

Looking for a fun and active way for your child to spend the school break? The ANZA Soccer Camp is the perfect opportunity!

The camp runs for three days, from 2 – 4 April, and welcomes all ANZA members, including children who do not currently play soccer with ANZA, and non-members. The camp will be conducted by our professional coaches, and offers a blend of skills training, fitness activities, and fun games.

Encourage your friends to join so they can also enjoy our fantastic program. It’s an excellent opportunity for them to discover what makes ANZA Soccer unique.

Regardless of the weather conditions, the camp will proceed as scheduled – in case of inclement weather, please remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes.

Date: 2 – 4 April
Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Venue: The Cage Dempsey
Ages: 6 – 14 years old
Cost: $300 per camp

Spaces are limited! Secure your spot now.

Loading…

New Zealand High Commission: Operating together

Mar 18 2025

In 2025, New Zealand and Singapore are celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations. For the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), this also signifies 60 years of bilateral defence cooperation with the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
The first significant presence of New Zealand units in Singapore came during WWII with No. 488 (NZ) Squadron, approximately 600 Royal New Zealand Air Force personnel taking part in the Battle of Singapore in 1942. Ultimately this campaign cost the NZDF 34 fatalities with many more personnel subsequently captured.

Wrens McDonald and Ashby in Singapore, 1970

After WWII, New Zealand deployed ships, aircraft and infantry to support security in South East Asia, including in Singapore. NZDF forces were active in both the Malayan Emergency and the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation. In 1961 the New Zealand infantry (1RNZIR) relocated from Malaysia to Nee Soon Barrack. In 1974, New Zealand formed the New Zealand Force South East Asia (NZFORSEA). It is estimated that up to 850 service members, and 700 dependents lived in Singapore at any one time.

Today the NZDF presence in Singapore is modest, but the Defence Support Unit supports ships, aircraft and training not just in Singapore, but the broader region. New Zealand also contributes to the Counter Terrorism Information Facility and the Information Fusion Centre, Singapore-based centres which support multilateral security efforts for the

“Ki te Kāpuia e kore e whati
We succeed by
working together region.”

Singapore conducts regular training in New Zealand, enjoying different weather conditions and wide-open spaces that enable live-firing activities such as Exercise Thunder Warrior.
Since 1989, the Singapore Armed Forces and New Zealand Defence Force have operated together in Timor-Leste and assisted with reconstruction in Iraq and Afghanistan. Most recently they deployed together in Combined Maritime Task Force 150, securing freedom of movement in the maritime domain.

1978 NZ Iroquois helicopter over Singapore

In uncertain times, Singapore and New Zealand are trusted and reliable defence partners in South East Asia. The New Zealand Defence Force in Singapore looks forward to celebrating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic and bilateral defence cooperation.

By New Zealand Defence Advisor To Singapore
Images supplied by the New Zealand High Commission

Travel for 2025: Insider tips from top industry experts

Mar 17 2025

Living in Singapore, we’re spoilt to have Changi Airport right on our doorstep, and a wealth of alluring destinations at our fingertips. If you’re ready to explore in 2025, read on as our expert globetrotters reveal the tips, trends, and must-see destinations for the year ahead. Whether you’re craving culture, relaxation, or a trip inspired by Taylor Swift, the ever-evolving travel scene has something for everyone.

“More people will travel for world-class international dining experiences”

Erin Padilla, Founder, Accela Communications
accela.comms

Big For 2025: Sustainable and regenerative travel will be at the forefront as travellers seek to minimise their environmental impact and evaluate destinations based on sustainability practices. off-the-beaten-track locations will take people to lesser-known spots that offer unique cultural experiences and new adventures. Multi-generational and group travel destinations that appeal to all age groups will create opportunities for lasting memories and deeper connections. Lastly, “bleisure” travel – a blend of business and leisure – is on the rise. With companies offering remote work options, travellers will continue extending work trips to include holidays.

Traditional turkish round bagel bread in Izmir city

Major Trends: Culinary travel is evolving. In 2025, more people will head off not just for local cuisine, but for world-class international dining experiences – think the best pizza in Japan!

Get Excited About: Event-based travel. In 2024 we saw live concerts pulling in tourism dollars for cities around the world. Smaller destinations can localise that type of experience, such as Cempedak Island who are hosting a murder mystery weekend in April.

My Personal Escape: I’ve become fond of active holidays with a focus on wine, as I complete my WSET 2 and work toward WSET 3 certification. I’m looking forward to hiking the Milford Track in New Zealand’s South Island and exploring vineyards in Central Otago.

“Travelling in the shoulder-season is going to grow”

Lucy Jackson Walsh, Managing Director, Lightfoot Travel
lightfoottravel.com
lightfoottravel

Big For 2025: Hyper-personalised experiences. Our clients seek trips that reflect their individuality and make them feel special. For example, we’re seeing an uptick in tailored wellness holidays with yoga and sound healing, requests for private dining and more private access to art museums. Travelling in the shoulder-season is also going to grow. Nico Heath (Lightfoot’s African specialist and cofounder) recommends a green season safari when the air is clear of dust, the animals are calving, the landscapes are lush and green, and there are fewer tourists.

Major Trends: JOMO, aka the Joy Of Missing Out. Similar to Slow Travel, this is about going off-grid in locations where you can disconnect and recharge.

Colourful colonial-buildings in La Paz, Bolivia

Destination Incoming: 2025 marks the Bicentennial of Bolivia. The capital city, La Paz, has rapidly evolved into a melting pot of flavours blending traditional Bolivian ingredients with modern culinary techniques. Lightfoot’s bespoke foodie itineraries include meals at the city’s most exciting new restaurants including Gustu and Phawayi, and a traditional Andean picnic or Apthapi on Lake Titicaca. Bolivia is easily combinable with Peru or Chile’s Atacama desert. It’s a really unique country with a surprising new cuisine culture (following on from next door neighbour, Peru).

Get Excited About: So much! But if I had to pick one thing, I’d say trains. Watch out for Saudi’s Dream of the Desert Line (launching end of 2025), Orient Express La Dolce Vita (Italian itineraries launching Spring 2025 from Venice to Tuscany, Rome to Sicily), and the new L’Observatoire carriage on the Belmond Venice Simplon Orient Express (launching March 2025).

My Personal Escape: I’ll be back to my happy place in Sri Lanka next month. Often referred to as the “teardrop island,” Sri Lanka is not just a stunning destination; it’s a symbol of resilience and healing. For me, it nurtures both the mind and the soul. I look forward to introducing my two smallest boys to the island.

“We’ll see experiences that promote ‘calm and quiet’ in remote destinations”

Matt Tow, Chief Destinations Planner, Amala Destinations
amaladestinations.com
amaladestinations

Big For 2025: Eco-conscious and sustainable operators and accommodations; not just those that support reducing their carbon footprints and operational efficiencies, but also those that actively support environmental, conservation and community initiatives, for example by hiring more local staff or sourcing local products. We’ll also see more wellness-based travel and those seeking experiences that promote calm and quiet in far-flung or more remote destinations.

Highly Recommended: There is a greater spotlight on Bhutan right now due to the increased publicity around Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), which aims to create a unique urban environment centered around mindfulness, wellbeing, and sustainable living. Try to time your visit during one of the Tshechu festivals that celebrate Bhutan’s Buddhist traditions with vibrant and colourful dances, music, and rituals.

Get Excited About: Continuing the age of exploration – from exciting discoveries of new wild places and phenomena, such as 2024’s reveal of the world’s largest land mammal migration in South Sudan that surpasses the Great Migration in East Africa, to new frontiers of travel such as space tourism.

My Personal Escape: Exploring the Tibetan Plateau, then heading along the eastern edge of the Silk Road in Gansu Province, which served as a vital crossroads that bridged China and Central Asia. The trade route left behind a rich cultural legacy of Buddhist art, paintings, forts, beacon towers, and sections of the Great Wall.

“Phu Quoc is set to be an exciting new option for a quick tropical escape”

Jo Hendry Prior (centre), Co-Founder, Alchemist Travel
Alchemist Travel

Big for 2025: We’re seeing a clear rise in travellers seeking more meaningful trips, whether it’s about bonding with family or immersing themselves in a new country and culture.

Get Excited About: Luxury Train Journeys. The Eastern & Oriental Express from Singapore to Malaysia is back, offerinf an unforgettable journey with incredible stops along the way, ending at the magical Datai Langkawi. Across the UK and Europe, several new luxury train routes are launching this summer, making train travel one of the most stylish and sustainable ways to explore the continent.

Destination Incoming: Phu Quoc, Vietnam. With new direct flights on Scoot, reaching Phu Quoc from Singapore is easier than ever – just under two hours. This Vietnamese island offers a range of accommodation, from casual, toes-in-the-sand beach stays to the ultra-luxurious Regent Phu Quoc on the western coast. It’s set to be an exciting new option for a quick tropical escape.

My Personal Escape
I love the idea of whisking my family away for a week with no Wi-Fi. It’s incredible how many people are initially hesitant about disconnecting, only to return energised, full of funny family stories, and grateful for the quality time spent together. For me, private boat charters are ideal for this, like those with Rascal Voyages.

How boarders find their place at St Joseph’s College

Mar 14 2025

Sponsored Content

Year 8 students Howie Green (left) and Samuel Dawson (right) are best friends at home and dorm mates at boarding school at St Joseph’s College

For many boys who travel from around Australia – and the world – to attend St Joseph’s College, the concept of “home” takes on new meaning.

One young student, Howie Green, captured this sentiment perfectly when reflecting on his return to the family farm during the school holidays. After weeks away, stepping back onto the land – 500km away from his Sydney boarding school – should have felt like a homecoming, yet something unexpected stirred within him. “When I first got to Joeys, I felt homesick. But now, when I come back to the farm, I feel homesick for school,” he admits. “The boarding house becomes your second home without you even realising it … you start missing your mates, the routine, the place itself.”

Howie with parents Kate and Ben surrounded by picturesque countryside at home near Bingara in New South Wales

From the farm to the city

From the expansive farmlands of northern New South Wales, two neighbouring families made life-changing decisions. Kate and Ben Green, and Bernie and Phil Dawson, whose sons grew up chasing pigs and mustering cattle, chose to send them to board at St Joseph’s College in Sydney.

For many, sending a child so far from home, is daunting. But for the Greens and Dawsons, who wanted the best for their boys, they soon discovered that Joeys offered more than an education – it provided a community and the opportunity for them to grow into good men.

Samuel Dawson and Howie Green, now in Year 8, experienced childhoods shaped by hot, sunny days, hard work and deep ties to the land. Kate Green, who herself attended boarding school in Queensland, recognised that Joeys could offer Howie opportunities beyond what the bush alone could provide. Kate, whose father Steve (1972) is an Old Boy of St Joseph’s College, hesitated at first: “Sydney is big. Joeys is big. I didn’t think we could do it.”

Samuel with parents Bernie and Phil at home in northern New South Wales

But the school came to them. Through visits from Old Boys and College representatives, they experienced Joeys’ spirit firsthand. “Dad always said, ‘just bring Ben to a Joeys game’,” Kate recalls. So, they did. And that was it. “As soon as we walked into the grounds, we were hooked,” Ben Green recalls. “Just walking around, seeing the boys, the way they carried themselves – it was done.”

For Phil and Bernie, the pull was just as strong. “Before Sam was even enrolled, Kate rang me and said, ‘no pressure, but they’re coming through on a country tour,” recalls Bernie. At a lunch stop in Bingara, they met Br Anthony Boyd, Mr John Reading (1972), Deputy Headmaster Mr Danny Sidgreaves and Headmaster Mr Michael Blake. “Who gets to sit down with a headmaster and have that conversation?” Bernie reflects. Later, when they toured Joeys, it was the students who made the biggest impression. “The way they spoke to us – confident, polite, welcoming – I knew this was where Sam needed to be.”

Mates for life

The reality of boarding school requires sacrifice, but the rewards are evident. The boys, initially nervous, quickly found their place. Howie, who grew up playing rugby league, now dreams of making the First XV rugby union team. Sam has taken up the guitar.

Watching their sons grow into confident young men affirms the decision. “He’s really lifted,” says Bernie. Kate adds, “Howie values home more now. He stands a bit taller.”

Howie and Samuel enjoy life on their family farms, more than 500km away from Joeys’ boarding life in Sydney

The journey of these country families echoes that of expat families who send their sons back to Australia to school. Whether from the bush or overseas, the experience is the same: leaving behind a familiar world for something bigger, finding their place and forming lifelong bonds.

If you are considering St Joseph’s College for your son’s educational journey, you can learn more by visiting joeys.org or contacting the Admissions Office directly via email: sjc@joeys.org or call +61 2 9816 0900 for a detailed discussion about a Joeys education and how it aligns with your child’s aspirations.

How AIS prepared 2024 graduates for university

Mar 13 2025

Sponsored Content

From the challenges of the HSC and IB to the lifelong friendships forged through co-curricular activities, their reflections highlight the impact of an AIS education.

Noa – IB Graduate

Noa spent two and a half years at AIS, transferring from another international school in Singapore. “I also heard great things about the school’s IB program and teachers which also contributed to my decision.”

While she found IB challenging, Noa credits her teachers for helping her navigate the workload. “It was very challenging but also very rewarding. I had great teachers who taught me a lot and helped to make the experience less overwhelming.”

She was thrilled with her IB score of 43, especially her perfect 7s in all HL subjects. “I got a 7 in IB history, which was probably the most challenging class for me. I started the IB with it being a low 5, so I was very proud of myself.”

Noa’s next step is national service for three years before attending university to study physics or engineering. She also deeply valued AIS’s commitment to service. “Some of my most memorable experiences involved charity work such as the Cambodia book drive or Schools for Schools.”

Her advice for IB students? “Managing your time well is crucial. It’s always better to finish things well before deadlines to work without stress and perform better.”

Rae-Lin (Sophie) – IB Graduate

Joining AIS in Year 9, Sophie was drawn to the school’s Southern Hemisphere academic calendar. The IB was a major adjustment, but she acknowledges its value: “Now that I’m done with it, I feel like the well-rounded nature of the IB has taught me valuable lessons and given me educational experiences that I will carry with me in my future studies and career.”

After scoring 39 points in the IB, Rae-Lin is now preparing to study law in the UK. Some of her most cherished AIS memories include the school trips, especially the Schools for Schools Nepal trip. “Despite being hard, it taught me to appreciate all that I have whilst also serving as a great bonding experience.”

Ruby – HSC Graduate

Ruby joined AIS in 2014 after relocating from Hong Kong with her family. Looking for a seamless transition, she found AIS to be the perfect fit.

“The HSC program was challenging but rewarding, and despite the demands, I found it enjoyable due to the sense of accomplishment and the support I received from both my teachers and friends.”

Initially enrolled in the IB program, Ruby switched to HSC after realising it was a better fit. She was stunned when she received a 90.25 ATAR. “I just sat there staring at the screen with my sister, unable to fully process what I was seeing.”

Ruby is now heading to The University of Sydney to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Business Law with a minor in Psychology. Beyond academics, she cherishes the friendships built at AIS and the role sports played in her journey. “Sports have played a central role in my life, and that connection was strengthened at AIS.”

Her advice to future HSC students? “Put in the effort, but also enjoy it. Your final year will be your best year!” For future IB students, her advice is clear: “Start your coursework early, don’t procrastinate, and revise from the beginning of Year 11.”

Hayley – HSC Graduate

A student at AIS since the age of four, Hayley found the HSC program to be one of the best decisions she ever made. “It really gave me the freedom to study what I wanted and meet so many fantastic people.”

She recalls the support from her teachers as instrumental in her success. “The teaching staff were so incredible and really felt like they were rooting for you every step of the way.”

Excited for the next chapter, Hayley is off to Monash University to pursue a double degree in Science and Arts, majoring in Environmental Science and Human Geography. Reflecting on her time at AIS, she highlights the community and opportunities. “Whether it was playing sport in PE or dancing at the Global Festival, AIS provided so many opportunities to forge lifelong connections.”

Her top study tip? “Take advantage of all your resources, work consistently, and make good use of your study periods.”

The AIS Experience: More Than Just Academics

As they embark on their university journeys, their AIS experience will continue to serve as a strong foundation for their futures.

To our Class of 2024 – congratulations! We can’t wait to see all that you accomplish. Ready to get started? Book a tour with us to learn more.