FAR East Hospitality will host its first heritage festival later this year, allowing foreign travellers to gain a deeper understanding of Singapore’s culture when they stay at its hotels and residences.
Held in conjunction with the Singapore HeritageFest 2013, the Far East Heritage Festival will run from July 19 to September 18 and is predicted to attract some 200,000 participants.
On offer are guided tours to colourful districts such as Kampong Glam, and personalised cultural experiences where participants can sample local food, play traditional games or learn about vanishing trades like parrot astrology.
Guests who stay at Far East Hospitality properties during the festival period can participate in all events for free and will receive S$80 (US$65) in cash vouchers for spending at Orchard Central, a 20 per cent discount off admission fees to four museums and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
In addition to the above, those who stay between July 19 and August 18 will enjoy trail activities at four locations as well as receive a Heritage Festival Passport with a suggested itinerary for a self-guided tour, and a dual-purpose bag.
Exhibitions and recreated spaces located in the trails along Orchard Central, Little India and Village Hotel Albert Court, Kampong Glam and The Fullerton Heritage Gallery @ The Fullerton Hotel are open to all visitors.
Arthur Kiong, CEO, Far East Hospitality, said: “As a home-grown operator and Singapore’s largest operator of hotels and residences, we believe in taking the lead to share Singapore’s success story.
“The inaugural festival is Far East Hospitality’s way of introducing Singapore’s rich culture and heritage to local and overseas travellers alike. While Far East Hospitality is currently focused on providing Singapore-inspired hospitality and rich experiences throughout the festival period, we will subsequently explore the possibility of making this an annual event for more guests to learn about Singapore’s yesteryears.”
When asked how much of an increase in occupancy the company was expecting as a result of the festival, Kiong said: “Taking into account the traditional lull periods from July to September, Far East Hospitality is expecting a 20 per cent increment for leisure individuals and online booking segments.”
Bookings will be open from today until September 18, unless sold out prior.
