Steve Explores!

An adventure book featuring the adventures of Steve and his merry band of friends and family

[steve-explores]

Birthday Celebrations at Brasserie Astoria

2026 has been a very eventful year so far as I navigate major upheavals in my career and create a new identity for myself moving into the next decade. To celebrate this milestone year, I decided to bring my family for a fun birthday celebration at Brasserie Astoria located at the iconic Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall. I heard a lot of positive things about the restaurant from my wife though during her last visit a couple of months ago, the menu was still a work-in-progress and the dishes were satisfactory at best.

The moment you step into the restaurant, you feel a type of chill, modern, hip hop vibe from its decor, lighting, and tableware. Everything screams supper club in a chic playful kind of way.

Since the restaurant is pretty well known by now, I shall jump right into the review for the dishes of the night.

Oyster au naturel - Champagne & shallot vinaigrette: Fresh, plump, and delicious, great as a starter to get the ball rolling.

Toast Astoria - Coldwater shrimps, Japanese snow crab, shoyu brined trout roe, wasabi aioli & pickled red onions: Luxurious toast with the right balance of sweet and savory.

Linguine à la Astoria - White clams, fine herbs, parmesan, roasted garlic butter, uni & XO sauce: Al dente pasta swimming in an umami broth that will have you scooping up every single drop.

Löjrom pizza - Vendace roe from Kalix, Västerbotten cheese & crème fraîche: Thin crust pizza done just right with everyone at the table fighting for the last piece.

300g Steak frites - Aged Angus Ribeye, sauce Béarnaise, heirloom tomato salad & pommes frites: Typical ribeye best served medium rare, though it pales in comparison to the rest of the menu.

Braised Iberico pork cheeks - Sauce Périgourdine, Jerusalem artichoke purée, hazelnuts, pickled pearl onions, clove oil, black truffles: Best dish of the night with my wife insisting she has the last bite. It is that good and highly recommended.

Halibut «Bourride» - Saffron nobis dressing, white clams, Spanish mussels, fennel, carrots, potatoes, garlic croutons: Flaky soft delicate texture that is an absolute smash hit for fish lovers.

Grilled seabass - Panzanella salad, red pepper coulis, basil, grilled lemon: Another amazing dish for seafood lovers. It is a less soupy dish compared to the Halibut.

Brûlée cheesecake - Mascerated blackberries, tonka bean: Best dessert of the night with the right amount of tartness to balance off the rich texture. The only regret is that I did not order more to share.

«The waffle ice cream» - Thyme waffles, earl grey ice cream, Japanese strawberry compote, amaretti, olive oil crumble: A great waffle dessert with an earl grey ice cream that will certainly appeal to fans of earl grey tea.

Overall, the restaurant is starting to find its footing since its opening in 2023. It features a vastly improved menu with memorable dishes in a beautiful environment that is great for date nights, celebrations, and family outings. The service team might need to add more members as the restaurant seems short handed during my visit. Throughout the evening, I had to raise my hands over five times just to catch their attention to try to clean the dirty plates and fill the empty glasses with water.

So does it warrant a return visit? I would definitely return again with my family and friends to see how the menu continues to evolve. Other than the steak, the rest of the menu that I sampled are worthy of a second tasting.

[steve-explores]

Rainforest Wild ASIA Family Adventure

Ever since Rainforest Wild ASIA opened its gates last year, my family has been planning for a trip. After weeks of preparations and rescheduling, we finally made it for our first ever rainforest adventure!

We arrived at 11am on a bright and sunny Saturday morning, we decided to explore the Elevated Walkway to catch some of the animals enjoying their weekend leisurely lunch hour.

Before the lunch crowd arrives, we made our way to The Cavern Restaurant which is Singapore’s first and only restaurant in a cave setting inspired by the Mulu Caves in Sarawak.

Pro Tip: Sign up for the free WildPass to get 10% off the total restaurant bill. If you spend over $100, you can also sign up for the restaurant membership to get additional benefits. You can also pay with Kris+ to earn miles for your meal.

Lunch for the day includes Stone Hearth Loaf, Pulled Pork Taco, Prawn Cocktail, Mushroom Soup, Brussel Sprout, Truffle Fries, Carbonara, Hunter's Board, and Wagyu Beef Burger.

Overall, the food was delicious though the Brussel Sprout is a tad too salty for the kids. I would definitely recommend visiting The Cavern Restaurant with the family for a unique cave dining experience!

With all that yummy food in our system, it was time to dive into the rainforest and get off the beaten track to climb steps, cross streams, trek bridges, and wander the forest floor.

Rainforest Wild ASIA is a fantastic excuse to get everyone off their seats and start exploring the great outdoors! We will definitely be back with more friends and family to create more memorable moments with our Wildlife Friends.

[steve-explores]

Two Masters, One Flame at SanSara Restaurant

Indian cuisine has a special spot in my culinary favorites and I knew I had to visit the popular SanSara Restaurant when I heard about their special four-hands collaboration titled "Two Masters, One Flame" featuring SanSara’s Master Chef Pannalal Nath and Chef Sohan Singh, Chef-Owner, RANG, Danang which is a Michelin Bib Gourmand Restaurant.

Before the start of the special five-day dining extravaganza, the master chefs gave an informal speech to welcome guests to a specially co-created menu which blends contemporary and classical Indian cuisine into an innovative dining experience.

For tonight's dinner, I was able to sample the six-course menu as follows:

SWEET POTATO GNOCCHI CHAAT - Tamarind | Pomegranate | Yoghurt | Mint Leaves: Tasty little treats that could be further improved with a bit more punch to the taste buds to tantalize diners.

SHORBA JHINGA - Indonesian Crayfish Bisque | Turmeric | Fenugreek | Fresh Coconut Cream: A spicy entry which surpasses the appetizer though the vessel used for moping up the bisque could do a much better job.

TANDOORI OCTOPUS - Almond Romesco | Pickled Onion | Nigella Seed: Balanced without being overly chewy with added smokiness for theatrics.

HARIYALI MURGH TIKКА - Chicken Morsel | Makhani Gravy | Onion & Cashew Crumble Charred Broccolini: Tender with a welcome nuttiness though I would probably hold off the salt a bit more.

SANSARA-NASILA DUNGER LAL MAAS - Rajasthan Lamb Curry Duo | Mathania Chilli | Eggplant Caviar | Goat Cheese & Olives Naan: Lamb cooked two ways, retaining much of its tenderness and juiciness, and paired with freshly made naan and a delicious stuffed tomato. What is there not to love about this dish?

CARROT HALWA MILLE FEUILLE - Vanilla Cream | Mango | Fresh Berries: A valiant effort though I would prefer my French pastry to be much more flaky and crispy to provide a better contrast with a smooth velvety filling.

Overall, I am satisfied with tonight's dinner as it lives up to its "Two Masters, One Flame" billing, featuring dishes from both Master Chef Pannalal Nath and Chef Sohan Singh. Although there are some areas of improvements, its the usual me nitpicking and finding ways to explore a higher form of expression within the confines of the humble plate.

One outstanding point to note for the evening is the exceptional service provided by the team which made my dining experience that much more special. And based off that, I would move my rating to a recommended pick for Indian cuisine lovers looking to sample a unique limited time dining collaboration.

Catch "Two Masters, One Flame" before it closes on 28 March 2026.

For more details, visit https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/offers/asia/grand-copthorne-waterfront/dining/sansara/two-masters-one-flame/

[steve-explores]

My Ultimate Disney Cruise Adventure Plan

With lots of people trying to plan a trip onboard Disney Cruise Adventure, I decided to share my ultimate plan that I created for my family trip during the Maiden Voyage.

I have excluded pin exchange as it is a well known tradition in the Parks while Fish Extender and Pixie Dusting are optional activities with lots of information available online. One big warning for placing items outside your room is that it can get stolen and I have seen many guests losing gifts and pins. So play at your own risk!

Details shared below are subjected to changes on the ship and it was written to the best of my abilities with extensive online research and the use of AI tools to assist in the planning.

Do double check them for each of your trips to avoid missing out on activities onboard the ship.

🛳️ Disney Adventure Overview

🍽️ The Disney Adventure Dining Overview

You have over a dozen dining options included in your fare or available for a fee.

1. Rotational Dining (Included)

You will rotate through these three themed experiences for dinner (5:45 PM):

Navigator’s Club / Hollywood Spotlight Club: "Captain’s Table" elegance with appearances by Mickey and friends.

Animator’s Palate / Animator’s Table: An interactive show where your drawings come to life. Features local flavors like Laksa Lemak.

Enchanted Summer / Pixar Market: Buffet-style by day, seated regional cuisine by night. Enchanted Summer is themed after Frozen and Tangled; Pixar Market features Inside Out and Monsters University.

2. Quick Service & Snacks (Included)

Mowgli’s Eatery: Indian and regional Asian cuisine.

Gramma Tala’s Kitchen: Pacific and Asian flavors (Teriyaki bowls, etc.).

Stitch’s ’Ohana Grill: American classics (burgers/sandwiches).

Cosmic Kebabs: Middle Eastern pitas and skewers.

Pizza Planet: Fresh pizza near the pool area.

Wheezy’s Freezies: Unlimited soft-serve ice cream.

3. Specialty & Adult-Exclusive (Extra Fee)

Palo Trattoria: Upscale Northern Italian dining for adults (18+).

Mike & Sulley’s – Flavors of Asia: Japanese Teppanyaki, Sushi, and Omakase.

Bacha Coffee & TWG Tea: Singapore-exclusive boutiques with character-themed blends and premium tea experiences.

4. Coffee, Tea & Boba Spots

Bewitching Boba and Brews: Located in the Discovery Reef area; serves bubble tea and villain-inspired concoctions.

Bacha Coffee: Aladdin-inspired boutique for premium coffee blends.

TWG Tea: Beauty and the Beast-inspired salon for fine teas and macarons.

Palo Café: Adults-only café for specialty coffees and Italian-inspired pastries.

Market Bar: Casual spot near Toy Story Place for coffee and beverages.

5. Bars & Lounges

Spellbound: Evil Queen-themed, "eerie-chic" adult lounge.

Tiana’s Bayou Lounge: New Orleans-themed spot for jazz, cocktails, and beignets.

Taverna Portorosso: Pixar’s Luca-inspired sports bar.

Buccaneer Bar: Captain Hook-inspired pirate pub.

Wayfinder Bar: Poolside lounge at Wayfinder Bay.

🍽️ The Disney Adventure Dining Food Guide

(Food rating is subjective and meant only as a rough guide)

1. Rotational Dining (Dinner at 5:45 PM)

Navigator’s Club

Duck Confit Pastilla: Rated 7/10.

Sauteed Maitake Mushrooms: Rated 10/10.

Burrata Mozzarella Cheese with Parma Ham: Rated 8/10.

Roasted Roma Tomato Soup: Rated 8/10.

Thai Shrimp Pumpkin Soup: Rated 9/10.

Ahi Tuna Sashimi: Rated 8/10.

Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass: Rated 9/10.

Thai Boat Noodles: Rated 3/10.

Hainanese Chicken Rice: Rated 8/10.

Peppered Filet Mignon: Rated 9/10.

Lobster Salad: Rated 9/10.

Blueberry Lemon Bavarian Cream: Rated 6/10.

Showtime Cupcake: SKIP IT.

Ice Cream Sundae: Rated 7/10.

Coconut Tapioca Pudding: Rated 7/10.

Chocolate Molten Cake: Rated 10/10.

Ube Creme Brulee: Rated 8/10.

Hollywood Spotlight Club

Chilled Mango Soup: Rated 5/10.

Carrot and Cilantro Soup: Rated 6/10.

Dill and Meyer Lemon Marinated Shrimp: Rated 7/10.

Pickled Gulf Shrimp: Rated 7/10.

Ginger Teriyaki Dusted Angus Beef Tenderloin: Rated 9/10.

Lamb Shawarma Salad: Rated 6/10.

Grilled Tuna Steak: Rated 7/10.

Chungdi Malai Shrimp Curry: Rated 8/10.

Mango Passion Fruit Creme: Rated 7/10.

Warm Banana Sticky Toffee Pudding: Rated 8/10.

Chocolate Cheesecake: Rated 8/10.

Warm Fudge Chocolate Brownie: Rated 7/10.

Caramel Macadamia Nut Cheesecake Tart: Rated 9/10.

Captain’s Table Sundae: Rated 8/10.

Animator’s Palate / Animator’s Table

Chicken Satay: Rated 6/10.

Korean Barbeque Beef Steamed Bun: Rated 5/10.

Dragon Roll: Rated 7/10.

Molokai Corn and Taro Chowder: Rated 7/10.

Pan Seared Pacific Scallops: Rated 9/10.

Banana Leaf Steamed Fillet of Salmon: Rated 4/10.

Carved Slow Roasted Rosemary Beef Tenderloin: Rated 7/10.

Laksa Lemak: Rated 2/10.

Pan Seared Branzino Fillet: Rated 4/10.

Honey Soy Roasted Duck and Papaya Salad: Rated 3/10.

Murgh Makhani Butter Chicken: Rated 8/10.

Salted Caramel Cheesecake: Rated 8/10.

Chocolate Decadence: Rated 8/10.

Almond Pear Tart: Rated 8/10.

Chocolate Dome: Rated 6/10.

Ice Cream Sundae: Rated 7/10.

Cappuccino Mousse: Rated 7/10.

Pixar Market / Enchanted Summer

Summer Roll: Rated 5/10.

Porcini Sacchetti: Rated 8/10.

Sliced Bresaola: Rated 7/10.

Pork and Shrimp Shumai: Rated 8/10.

Hot Sour Soup: Rated 7/10.

French Onion Soup: Rated 9/10.

Mango Chicken Salad: Rated 5/10.

Seared Verlasso Salmon Fillet: Rated 5/10.

Roast Prime Rib of Beef: Rated 8/10.

Shiromaru: Rated 3/10.

Gemelli Bolognese: Rated 7/10.

Chicken Shari Korma: Rated 8/10.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Rated 7/10.

White Chocolate Bread Pudding: Rated 9/10.

Orange Almond Cake: Rated 7/10.

Coconut Rice Pudding: Rated 6/10.

Lemon Thai Basil Tart: Rated 7/10.

Ice Cream Sundae: Rated 8/10.

Cappuccino Mousse: Rated 7/10.

2. Quick Service & Snacks (Included)

Mowgli’s Eatery (Indian & Regional Asian)

Butter Chicken & Naan: Reviewers note this is more authentic and spicy than the typical "sweet" version found on other ships.

Kerala Fish Curry: Rich, coconut-based, and aromatic; a favorite for those wanting a lighter but flavorful lunch.

Cosmic Kebabs (Mediterranean Build-Your-Own)

The Build-Your-Own Bowl: Skip the pita and choose the Turmeric Rice & Pine Nut base. The Beef Kofte and Baba Ghanoush are the top-rated protein and dip combo.

Beef Sausage: A juicy addition, though reviewers warn it can be inconsistent (sometimes dry)—stick to the Kofte for a guaranteed win.

Dietary Note: This is a Muslim-friendly station; it uses a separate kitchen with no pork, lard, or alcohol.

Stitch’s ’Ohana Grill (American with Hawaiian Flair)

626 Spicy Fried Chicken Burger: Named after Experiment 626. A buttermilk fried chicken burger that is tasty but "tame" on the spice scale.

Black & Blue Burger: An Angus beef patty with blue cheese and chive aioli—currently ranked as the best "deck burger."

Barbecue Huli-Huli Pulled Pork Burger: Sweet, tangy, and topped with a thick slice of grilled pineapple.

Gramma Tala’s Kitchen (Pacific/Asian Supper Spot)

Black Pepper Beef & Sichuan-Braised Tofu: These provide a "Zi Char" (home-style) stir-fry quality that is perfect for a midnight meal.

Huli-Huli Chicken: A sweet glazed chicken that pairs perfectly with the coconut rice.

Pizza Planet (Toy Story Inspired)

Four Cheese Pizza: A sophisticated blend of Gorgonzola, Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Taleggio. Don't let the blue cheese scare you; it’s creamy and balanced.

Plant-Based Sausage Pizza: Features spinach and cremini mushrooms on a classic tomato base—a highly-rated vegan option.

3. Room Service

Pennette Bolognaise: Rated 8/10.

Crisp Breaded Chicken Tenders: Rated 8/10.

Rasam Indian Tomato Soup: Rated 8/10.

All Hands On Deck (Cheese Platter): Rated 8/10.

Grilled Angus American Cheese Burger: Rated 9/10.

New York Cheesecake: Rated 7/10.

Chocolate Truffle Cake: Rated 8/10.

Chicken Wonton Noodle: Rated 5/10.

Dan-Dan Noodles:  Rated 9/10. These were highlighted for having a significant "spicy kick." The reviewer noted that there is a free beverage provided to help numb the spice from this dish.

On the Disney Adventure, the Mickey Churro Waffles are typically served only during breakfast on the final full day of the cruise.

🎭 Entertainment & Fireworks Strategy

The Disney Adventure decentralizes entertainment across seven immersive zones.

Entertainment Pro-Tips

Navigator App: This is your lifeline. Use it to book shows and check real-time schedules.

Flexibility is Key: Entertainment is spread across the ship. Don't force the whole family to be at the same show; split up so everyone sees what they enjoy most.

Arrival: For open-seating shows, arrive 15–20 minutes early.

The "Finale" Rule: Save your "must-see" shows for the final night, as the most elaborate performances happen then.

Best Viewing Locations

Disney Imagination Garden: Midship railings on Deck 11 offer the best stage views if you aren't in a Garden View room.

Wayfinder Bay: These are open-air; aim for the lower deck level for an immersive experience. Bring a light jacket.

Deck Parties: Watch from the seats all the way at the back of Deck 10 or stand at Deck 11 and Deck 12 to avoid the "crush" and see the whole performance.

Movies: Arrive 15 minutes early for Baymax Cinemas.

The "Let's Set Sail" Strategy (Post-Muster Drill)

Timing: Multiple timings during sail day.

Efficiency: Try to get onboard as soon as you can so you can catch the performances before the fire drill

Viewing: If you prefer a birds-eye view without the crush of the dance floor, head to the upper-level railings on Deck 11 overlooking the Garden Stage.

Best Fireworks Viewing Spot: The Secret Deck 18 Hack

If you want the absolute best view of the Lion King: Celebration in the Sky fireworks, head here:

Location: Deck 18, Forward.

Directions: Once you exit the main area, turn right. You will find a spot near the Disney logo.

Why it’s the best: This provides one of the clearest, unobstructed angles on the ship because the fireworks are typically launched in this section of the sky.

Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to snag a front-row spot for the perfect vantage point.

🎢 Thrills: Join the Queue Hack

Attractions will require booking in the Navigator App.

HOWEVER, if you are unable to get the booking, just go and ask the staff at the rides to try to join the queue. Typically if there is a short queue, the staff will let you join the queue to ride the attractions.

🎁 Poison Apple & "Hidden" Duffy Quest

Duffy Discovery Quest: Head to the Duffy and Friends Shop (San Fransokyo Street). You can purchase a Discovery Guide (USD$12.99) to find "lost items" around the ship. Completing it earns you a special Duffy Hat for the Duffy plush toys to wear (exclusive to this ship).

The "Poison Apple" Collectible: Order the Poison Apple cocktail (US$70). It is served in an intricately sculpted Witch & Apple mug featuring the Evil Queen in her Hag disguise—a high-quality, souvenir-worthy statue. Supply is limited; order the moment you board the ship ELSE it will sell out fast.

🎁 Collect Free Merchandise

First Time Voyage Certificate: Go to Guest Services Level 4 to print a Magical Moments Certificate to commemorate the family’s first Disney cruise. (Only limited to per family and subject to availability)

Special Badges: Collect a set of exclusive Disney Cruise badges from Level 4 Concierge Desk: I'm Celebrating, I Lost a Tooth, Happy Birthday, Magical Moments, Just Graduated, Happy Anniversary, Happily Ever After. (Subject to availability)

Charms Bracelet and Daily Charms: Visit Diamonds and Wishes at Deck 7 to collect daily charms to put on the free bracelet. (Ask the staff on how it works as it differs for each voyage)

Animator’s Palate Art: You get to keep your placemat drawings if dining here.

📶 WiFi & Connectivity

The "WhatsApp Hack": You can send and receive text messages via WhatsApp and iMessage for FREE on the "DCL-GUEST" Wi-Fi without buying a package. Note: Photos, videos, and voice calls may or may not work. You have to try.

Free Navigator App: Always free for viewing schedules, menus, and on-ship chat with your group.

Paid WiFi Packages (Prices subject to change):

Internet Package: budget about US$30 per device per 24 hours

Internet + Streaming Package: budget about US$49 per device per 24 hours

Note: Buying for the full voyage usually grants a 20% discount. It’s around $100 for a 3 night voyage.

🗺️ The Maiden Voyage Itinerary Suggestion (3 Nights)

Maiden Voyage: 3-Night "Power Hour" Itinerary

Day 1: Embarkation & Kickoff

1:00 PM: Board the ship. Connect to ship Wi-Fi immediately to view your assigned Rotational Dining schedule (5:45 PM dinner) in the Navigator App.

1:15 PM: Join the Virtual Queue for the Ironcycle Test Run roller coaster. (If available)

1:30 PM: Drop carry-on bags in your stateroom.

2:00 PM: Lunch options: Choose between the Pixar Market buffet (Deck 17) for sea views, or Mowgli’s Eatery/Gramma Tala’s Kitchen (Deck 10) for quick-service Asian/Indian flavors.

3:00 PM to 4:00PM: "Let’s Set Sail" deck party at the Garden Stage (Deck 10). View from the Deck 11 railings for the best vantage point.

4:00 PM: Attend your Muster Drill.

5:45 PM: Dinner at your first assigned Rotational Dining venue.

Day 2: Marvel Action, Broadway & Fireworks

Morning: Character meet-and-greets at Town Square.

Afternoon: Catch the "Moana: Call of the Sea" show at Wayfinder Bay or "Captain Jack Sparrow & The Siren Queen" at the Garden Stage. (Subject to availability)

5:45 PM: Dinner at your second assigned Rotational Dining venue.

Evening: Head to Marvel Landing (Deck 10) for the "Avengers Assemble!" stunt show.

Fireworks: "The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky." Head to Deck 18, Forward (near the Disney logo) at least 30 minutes before the show begins to secure a front-row spot.

Day 3: Immersive Storytelling & The Finale

7:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Head to the Pixar Market or Enchanted Summer buffet. This is your only guaranteed chance to get the Mickey Churro Waffles.

Morning: Explore the themed zones like Disney Discovery Reef or San Fransokyo Street.

Afternoon: Catch the "Moana: Call of the Sea" show at Wayfinder Bay or "Captain Jack Sparrow & The Siren Queen" at the Garden Stage. (Subject to availability)

5:45 PM: Dinner at your final assigned Rotational Dining venue.

Evening: Watch the flagship Broadway-style show "Remember" (WALL-E & EVE) in the Walt Disney Theatre.

Day 4: Smooth Disembarkation

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Use the "Wait Out" hack—enjoy breakfast in your stateroom with snacks/pastries you saved in your containers. OR visit the restaurants.

8:15 AM: Final sweep of your stateroom (don't forget the safe!).

8:30 AM: Disembark at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre.

📋 Draft Packing Checklist

Crucial Essentials: 

Passport/IDs

Travel insurance

All prescriptions (with extras)

Toiletries (MUST BRING): 

Toothbrush+toothpaste

Body Lotion

Personal skincare/toiletries (face wash, skin care, body lotion)

Comfort & Tech: 

Travel adapter (Singapore uses Type G)

Power bank

Reusable food containers (for the "Wait Out" hack)

Tumblers/water bottles

Apparel: 

Comfortable walking shoes

Pashmina/light jacket (ship interiors are cold)

Swimwear

Flip flops

For the Child: 

Noise-canceling headphones

Child-medication

Footwear: 

Room slippers (not provided, but highly recommended for cabin comfort).

💡 Top Navigation & Logistics Tips

The "Wait Out" Strategy: Pack food containers to grab breakfast/pastries from the buffet for your final morning.

Escalator Shortcut: Use the midship escalators (Decks 5–9) to bypass elevator lines.

🚪 Disembarkation: The "Stress-Free" Exit

1. The Night Before (Day 3)

The "Wait Out" Snack Hack (1:30 AM): Room Service stops around midnight. Place your final order for pastries, fruit, or sandwiches before this time and store them in your reusable containers. This allows you to have a private, "leisurely" breakfast in your room rather than the 6:45 AM dining hall rush.

2. The Final Morning (Day 4)

Vacate Stateroom (8:00 AM): Try to be out of your room by 8:00 AM so the hosts can clean.

Breakfast Options:

Main Dining (Assigned): You can eat at the same restaurant you had dinner at on Night 3. Since your dinner is at 5:45 PM, your breakfast is at 6:45 AM.

Casual Buffet: Pixar Market (Deck 17) and Enchanted Summer (Deck 6) are usually open from 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM. It is less formal but can get crowded.

Express Walk-Off (The Fast Move): If you can carry all your own luggage (no checked bags), you can leave as soon as the ship is cleared by Singapore authorities—usually around 7:30 AM. This skips the baggage claim wait entirely.

3. The Terminal & Transport

Immigration: Singapore uses automated lanes for most passengers. Ensure you have your SG Arrival Card (digital) submitted if required for your residency status.

[steve-explores]

Disney Cruise Adventure Maiden Voyage Day 3

Today was our final full day out in the open sea which means its Mickey Churro Waffle Day though it was underwhelming as these waffles were tough and sugary. While having breakfast, I finally saw slots for Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin, and quickly booked them.

When we arrived at the rides, the queues were short as it was just too hot and sunny on the top deck. As such, guests could simply ask the staff to join the queues if they wanted to try the rides.

The much anticipated Iron Man Ironcycle Test Run was still not functional even though numerous KOL (Key Opinion Leader) was able to experiment the ride during the test cruise.

Although $100 onboard credits were issued to each stateroom as an apology during the night when stores were already closed, it led to more guest confusion as everyone is trying to figure out if the credits could be used to offset prepaid charges that had already been deducted from our credit cards.

One of the best morning shows onboard the ship was the Baymax Super Exercise Expo which provided much needed exercise for everyone who has been over indulging in 24/7 food cravings.

After exercise, it was ice cream, hot dog, and another round of Pym Quantum Racer with my daughter.

During the cruise, my family preferred the food options at the quick serve restaurants, and I would highly recommend Mowgli’s Eatery (Indian cuisine) and Stitch’s Ohana Grill (Burgers). Pro Tip: Book the dining slots for Ohana Grill as soon as you can as the burgers are made fresh and the queues are long due to its popularity.

Since we still had zero luck with activity bookings in the app, my family split up into two with one group catching "Hoppers" at the Baymax Cinema while the other group took a nap in the stateroom.

5:45pm arrived quickly and our final dinner of the cruise was held at the Navigator's Club which could be described as a dinner and a show with Disney characters making an appearance to greet the guests.

As my wife remarked: "I think they saved the best for last. The dishes tonight are so much better than the previous nights." I have to agree with her as these dishes were much more similar in quality and taste to higher quality restaurants in the city, raising its score to 3.8/5.

After dinner, we took a quick rest before catching the grand finale show "Remember" which is filled with a lot of surprises for Disney fans. I shall not spoil it for fans and you have to visit the cruise to experience it for yourself.

Now comes the important questions that we have to answer: Did the cruise live up to all of its hype that was heavily promoted during the test cruise before the maiden voyage? What did my family think about the experience? And will I board the ship again? Was it worth all of the effort and cost?

Truthfully from my perspective as a paying guest and a long time Disney fan, I think that the maiden voyage expectation was raised much too high and there was a lot of room for improvements. The ship is absolutely stunning and captured the magic of Disney Parks perfectly. The entire Disney Cruise Adventure was a magical first time cruise experience for my family.

The overall experience with the queue system for activities is a big letdown considering that the ship was still not at full capacity. As a gauge, the test cruise with the Key Opinion Leader (KOL) was probably only 1/3 full while the maiden voyage was around 2/3 full. I cannot imagine the logistical challenges with a full capacity cruise. The argument to be made is that Disney Cruise is still trying to refine its operations though it is a view that is hard to swallow when Disney already had years to perfect their worldwide standard operating procedures since their first voyage in 1998. I guess the guest expectation is that it should be a well oiled machine and the fact that there are still tons of rough edges for this maiden voyage leaves a lot to be desired.

Disney Cruise tried to make it up to its guests by showering them with complimentary surprise gifts each evening and a last minute issue of $100 onboard credits for each stateroom. It was a welcome gesture, helping to alleviate my FOMO from not being able to purchase the popular maiden and inaugural voyage merchandise from the stores.

This mixed sentiment about the Adventure is echoed by my family members. My mother-in-law remarked that she would rather visit the Disney Parks, while my daughter was instantly turned into a Disney fan with Disney music playing on repeat the moment we arrived home. My mother felt bored at times and simply sat at the quick serve restaurants to have tea and snacks.

My wife summed it up nicely: "I have mixed feelings about the cruise experience. I think it might be better if we planned a bigger group outing with other families. It is just a lot of people on the ship and the food options are average. So we shall see if we will go on the ship again in a few years."

For long-time Disney fans, they will visit the cruise ship to catch a glimpse of the Disney magic. As a family experience, I would recommend trying it out at least once. You can book ahead to save costs and leverage promotions on booking platforms such as Pelago to earn KrisFlyer miles on your booking.

A big thank you to the amazing team onboard Disney Cruise Adventure! You made my family feel so welcomed throughout the journey, and you are the big reason why I rate the overall experience as 3.5/5 with a big thumbs up recommendation as the top choice for a family cruise experience.

Till next time Disney Cruise with my next Adventure!

Now, back to waiting on the Disney Cruise hotline to try to sort out my credit card charges and the last minute onboard credits.

[steve-explores]

Disney Cruise Adventure Maiden Voyage Day 2

It's Day 2 onboard Disney Cruise Adventure and my family started the day bright and early, expecting to try the rides, attend the shows and activities, and meet lots of characters for photo opportunities.

First show of the day was with Moana and it was concise retelling of the story with amazing vocals from the lead actress.

Next up was Duffy and Friends where we sat comfortably from a safe distance for my daughter. For young kids, it is better to come prepared with noise cancellation headphones as the music can get very loud.

Since my family was unable to make any bookings for meet and greet sessions and the rides were not available, we focused on capturing fun memories around the ship until 5:45pm for our rotational dinner time at Pixar Market Restaurant

Tonight was my family's celebration dinner for my mother and mother-in-law, and dishes were satisfactory accompanied by world class service from the team.

The main highlight for the night is the Avenger's Assemble live show at the Garden Stage. For a more immersive experience, I would highly recommend standing in the middle of the performance area so that you are able to have a 360 view of all of the action happening all around you.

After the show, we decided to take a slow stroll around the ship and visit the gift shop to grab additional diapers for my daughter as well as a couple of souvenirs. By this time, the popular maiden and inaugural voyage merchandise are sold out so there are no queues to enter the stores.

By 10pm, crowds have gathered on the top deck to catch the much anticipated fireworks display. To be brutally honest, the fireworks show was a 5/10 compared to the fireworks display at Marina Bays Sands from 13-15 March to welcome the arrival of Disney Cruise Adventure in Singapore. So manage your expectations accordingly.

Overall, Day 2 was a leisurely family day with a typical Disney Park experience: long queues for everything, no opportunities to sit on the rides or meet any characters, and simply focus on taking photos and attending the shows.

Crossing fingers for a much better experience for Day 3!

[steve-explores]

Disney Cruise Adventure Maiden Voyage Day 1

After months of discussion, my wife and I finally decided to make a last minute booking on the maiden voyage of Disney Cruise Adventure to celebrate my mother's 80th birthday and my mother-in-law's 70th birthday!

Due to backend internal system issues, I had to wrangle with Pelago and Disney Cruise to process our booking until the end of the online check-in date on 9th March. As a reference, the total cost for my family of 4 adults and 1 child was around SGD $5.3K. We managed to leverage the flash sale on Pelago for a Deluxe Garden View Stateroom With Verandah (2 adults + 1 child) which cost SGD $3.3K and an Inside Stateroom (2 adults) which cost SGD $2K.

So was it worth all the effort and the sky high expectations and positive hype from the test cruise with KOL (Key Opinion Leader) that occurred before the maiden voyage? Let's find out!

Once my family boarded the ship, we were bombarded with so much people and activity all around us. We had to go with the flow and the queues, find our rooms, deposit our bags, and made our way to the Garden Stage to get a late lunch while checking out the show to celebrate the sailing.

After a late lunch, we decided to explore the ship before the muster drill at 4pm. We managed to grab a quick photo with Jasmine and this would be the only opportunity we were able to get a photo with a character onboard the ship due to the insane queues and faulty booking system on the Navigator app.

The ship is absolutely beautiful with lots of Disney easter eggs all around the ship, waiting to be discovered. Just remember to put on a comfortable pair of footwear and casual attire during boarding as it can get pretty hot on deck.

For my family, one of the biggest attraction is the Oceaneer Club for our daughter as it is a colorful playground filled with so much activities to occupy the little one for hours and hours. Although the guide indicates that kids need to be potty trained before they can enter on their own, there are various open sessions where parents can be present as well so there is little concern if your kids still need their parents to accompany them.

We also managed to explore the San Fransokyo Street and the upper decks before making our way to the Muster Drill at 4pm followed by dinner at Animator's Palate at 5:45pm.

One of the highlights of the dinner was creating your very own character which will be animated to appear on screen with Disney characters. Unfortunately for my table, there was a system glitch and our characters were left out of the fun.

Dishes served on board the ship were satisfactory. Based on my cruise experiences, the dining quality and flexibility is the best in the local cruise market right now. Overall, dishes were 3.5/5 stars across the board though service was 5/5 top notch and personalized.

After catching a show at 8:30pm and putting our daughter to bed, my wife and I enjoyed a quiet moment with freshly baked pizza at Pizza Planet.

Key positives for the day: Great service team, beautiful decor with attention to details, and lots of Disney related activities for Disney fans.

Key negatives for the day: Glitches in the system, and a queue system that is virtually impossible to book anything unless you are consistently starring at your phone.

Complimentary gifts that ran out: Limited badges available (if any) and the first time cruise certificate ran out.

Overall, it's been an overwhelming Day 1 for my family's first ever cruise experience. I am hoping things will get better with Day 2.

[steve-explores]

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Total Concentration Exhibition

As a huge fan of the popular series “Demon Slayer Kimetsu No Yaiba”, I have to visit The Total Concentration Exhibition happening at The Former Sports Hub Library in Kallang.

The exhibition takes visitors on an exciting journey through an immersive experience featuring lots of photo opportunities with unforgettable scenes, and exclusive looks into visuals and illustrations by various artists working to bring this masterpiece to life.

Check out the exhibition before it leaves on 15 March 2026!

For more details, visit https://www.thekallang.com.sg/events/demon-slayer-kimetsu-no-yaiba-total-concentration-exhibition-singapore

[steve-explores]

Make Your Wish at Chingay 2026

I have always been a huge fan of Chingay and I was glad that I managed to secure tickets for my family to attend the biggest party on the island during the Lunar New Year period.

This year's theme is “Make Your Wish” and it features a circular stage which provides an immersive fun experience for the audience.

My family were dancing in our seats and clapping our hands enthusiastically to every musical number, with the theme song being played on repeat at home long after the party has ended with a spectacular fireworks display.

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With such an amazing performance and stage setup, I am looking forward to what is in store for 2027!

[steve-explores]

Valentine's Day Celebrations at JAAN by Kirk Westaway

Valentine's Day arrived in a flash and it's my annual ritual to visit JAAN by Kirk Westaway with my wife to celebrate our special day. The visit marks our 6th visit to the restaurant and the food is as impeccable as ever: delicious, homely, and sophisticated without being overly complicated. By now, the Two Michelin Star restaurant is a well oiled machine and delivers a consistent satisfying dining experience which still rates as one of my favorite in the city.

Below is a quick look at the delicious dishes for the day which featured a medley of delicious starters, a comforting bowl of leak & potato soup, a refreshing white beetroot, a decadent hen's eggs, a vibrant sea bass, and a rich savory venison wrapped in crispy chicken skin. The meal ended with a Gin & Tonic, Chocolate Hazelnut, and a trio of sweets.

A big thank you to the team at JAAN by Kirk Westaway for their attentive service as always.

Looking forward to next year's Valentine's Day at the restaurant!

[steve-explores]

Family Circus Time at Cirque du Soleil KOOZA

It has been years since I have visited Cirque du Soleil and when I heard about the arrival of KOOZA under the Big Tent at Marina Bay Sands, I have to grab tickets to bring my daughter for her first ever circus experience.

The beautifully lit tent welcomed guests to enter a realm of wonder and excitement as guests had lots of photo opportunities and F&B options right before the big show.

As the evening show started at 8pm, my daughter sat in anticipation, waiting for the magic to unfold onstage. However, an hour into the show, the Z-monter finally caught up with my daughter and we have to return home for naptime. I applaud my three year old's bravery in holding up till half time and I am sure we will return in the future to catch the second half of the show.

Catch KOOZA under the Big Tent at Marina Bay Sands before it ends in March 2026: https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/singapore/singapore/kooza/buy-tickets

[steve-explores]

A026 Melbourne Getaway - Higher Ground with More Coffee Please

It's the last day of my quick getaway for AO26 in Melbourne and my wife and I cannot leave the city without visiting more cafes and savoring more great tasting coffee.

Brunch is the first order of business and we reserved seats at one of the hottest spots in town: Higher Ground with an award winning coffee program and delicious local cuisine featuring fresh Australian produce.

The restaurant was buzzing with activity even though it was a Monday morning, and we ordered their signature Seasonal Ricotta Hotcake and Prawn Toast Benedict to pair with their silky smooth flat white.

With our bodies charged with great food and coffee, it was time to get more great coffee from lots of cafes in our list including Bloomwood, Market Lane Coffee, Brother Baba Budan, Patricia Coffee Brewers, Lune Croissanterie, and Dukes Coffee. Each place has its own blends and character, and I loved every single one of them. I returned home with six bags of coffee beans, bringing home a taste of Melbourne to last me for a couple of weeks.

It has been a wonderful 72 hours in Melbourne and I cannot wait to return to this city with my wife and daughter to get more great coffee and food soon!

[steve-explores]

A026 Melbourne Getaway - Men's Finals Carlos Alcaraz versus Novak Djokovic

After waiting for years, it was finally a dream come true for me and my wife as we arrive in Melbourne for a thrilling Men's Finals showdown between two legendary players: Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.

We shopped and ate our way through the festival grounds until it was finally time to get to our seats to welcome the arrival of the gladiators in the arena. The atmosphere in the Rod Laver Arena was truly special and unlike any that I have ever experienced before.

After a brief exchange and a coin toss, the match was off and what a match it was, with nail bitting moments as Carlos and Novak trading serve after serve to try to outwit and outlast each other.

Pivotal match point moment finally arrived in the 4th round with Carlos delivering a decisive blow to Novak, setting himself up in the driver's seat for his eventual victory soon after.

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Though Novak did not win AO26, he made his own indelible mark in history by owning 104 wins at Melbourne Park, putting him in first place among both men and women in history, and owning over 100 victories at the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon, making him the only player to achieve the feat at three different major tournaments. He was truly a legend and this year's AO26 finals marked a transition from one era of tennis to the next with Carlos becoming the youngest man to win all four majors.

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AO26 Men's Finals was an unforgettable experience for me and my wife, we cannot wait to return soon for more thrilling matches at the Rod Laver Arena for AO27!

[steve-explores]

A026 Melbourne Getaway - Sunday Brunch at Farmer's Daughter

With the whole morning and afternoon to spend before AO26 Men's Finals, my wife and I took the opportunity to explore Melbourne CBD and visit some of the best pastry and coffee spots in the city.

One of my biggest highlights of the day is a sumptuous brunch at Farmer's Daughter which has a restaurant and a deli, offering fresh local produce from Gippsland farms to create a distinctive provenance-based cuisine.

As it was a Sunday, the restaurant is closed and we managed to get seats at the rooftop for a chill brunch experience. Since my wife and I are only two person, we could only ordered a couple of items from the menu. And what we sampled simply blew us away, from the Farm style soda bread and Lakes Entrance cured fish to Roast beetroot salad, Dry aged O’Connor beef club steak and Lamb Shoulder.

Farmer's Daughter joins Amaru in my top culinary spots to visit again the next time when I am in Melbourne!

[steve-explores]

A026 Melbourne Getaway - Amaru Culinary Experience

Ever since my wife and I welcomed our little angel in the Christmas of 2022, we have not enjoyed a couple's trip just to ourselves. With our bundle of joy now a bubbling three year old, we thought that it would be a great opportunity to test her independence and give ourselves a small break from our usual routine with a trip we have been talking about for years: attending the Men's Finals at the Australia Open in Melbourne.

The trip will be a quick getaway (3 days and 2 nights) with the objectives of attending the Men's Finals while sampling the best culinary spots and savoring the local coffee culture.

First pitstop the moment we landed in Melbourne is a culinary experience at Amaru, the award winning 3 Hatted restaurant offering a tasting menu which is inspired by exquisite local Australian produce.⁠

The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with only 34 seats, offering a unique intimate experience into the best that Australia has to offer. The tasting menu begins with a medley of small bites with tastes and textures that are extraordinary and yet familiar. Each bite more exciting than the next, pairing well with the cocktails that we have ordered.

With our appetites whetted, the mains followed with local produce being prominently featured such as Yellowfin Tuna, Mud Crab, Marron, Barramundi and Wagyu.

And just when we thought we could not eat anymore, the desserts arrived and we promptly finished our plates. The only words that I can use to describe the entire experience: absolutely exquisite and divine.

Now for the main question: Would I travel to Melbourne again just to visit Amaru and sample its seasonal menu? Yes, a thousand times! The restaurant truly deserves all of its accolades with each dish thoughtfully prepared with care and attention, honoring Australian produce and its cultural roots. It is a sensory treat for foodies such as myself and I cannot wait to visit the restaurant again.

For those looking to visit the restaurant, remember to book in advance to avoid disappointment!

[steve-explores]

Wedding Anniversary Celebrations at Thevar

It has been a couple of months since my last big major culinary adventure due to home renovations, moving into the new place, and major upheavals in my career. Despite all of the ups and downs in mu life, there is still so much to celebrate and be thankful for the year especially my amazing supportive wife and daughter. To end the year on a high note, my wife and I finally found time for our wedding anniversary celebrations at Thevar, a two Michelin Star restaurant specializing in modern Indian cuisine helmed by Chef Mano Thevar who brought his own creative interpretation from the rich culinary heritage of the Malay Peninsula sprinkled with his European culinary experiences.

The restaurant has a warm inviting hue with lime washed walls complemented by wood earthy tones in its furnishings to create a comfortable and soothing environment for diners.

Here's a quick look at the dinner offering for the day:

A medley of small savory bites that excite and delight our palates, raising the expectations for the rest of the dinner course.

Next is a series of dishes with a good balance of flavors and spices, ensuring a mix of poultry and seafood to avoid overpowering the senses. Each dish goes well with its recommended wine pairing though we only opt for a glass of white wine since I was a light drinker. The dishes delivered on all fronts, offering a tantalizing culinary experience for diners, with a pacing which allows breathing space for each dish to shine through.

To end the night, its ice cold desserts help to smooth out the spices dancing on your tongue, bringing the night to a satisfying close.

Overall, Thevar lives up to its reputation for being one of the best restaurants in town to enjoy modern Indian cuisine. Its flavors are bold and familiar yet innovative with its own creative spins.

I am looking forward to my next visit with my wife to celebrate our next major milestone, savoring brand new culinary creations from Chef Mano Thevar.

Till then, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

[steve-explores]

Nelly Does British at Cook & Brew

To kick start my wife's month long birthday celebrations, we visited the latest culinary experience in town involving Australian Chef Nelly Robinson from Sydney-based NEL Restaurant with Cook and Brew for a special gastronomy event called "Nelly Does British at Cook & Brew".

This special event series runs from 11 September to 11 October and features a specially curated menu by Chef Nelly featuring a modern re-imagination of classic flavors inspired by his British heritage and Singapore's colonial past.

Here's a quick run through for the dinner menu:

Welcome drinks: Choose from alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions while admiring the panoramic view of the city.

Crab Tart - Poached crab with chili and lime, brown butter hollandaise: Great flavors with a gooey center though the crab could be a lot fresher as there's still a hint of fishiness.

Truffle Potato Dabs - Roast potato hash brown with truffle mayonnaise: Delicious little nuggets that can burn your tongue if you do not take your time to savor its deliciousness.

Biryani + Naan - Naan bread foam served with biryani broth: Innovative take on a classic dish which packs a bunch at the end.

Steak Bake Pasty - Pepperberry steak pasty with herb shortcrust: Fun presentation in a paper bag though the pastry might be a bit too doughy.

English Crumpets - Sourdough crumpet served with black garlic butter: My favorite of the evening with black garlic butter providing the much needed savory highlight.

Kingfish Tandoori - 48-hour marinated Japanese amberjack with Smoked yoghurt and prawn soil: A solid entry for the menu which hits all of the ticks for a great dish.

Beef Wellington - Slow-cooked beef cheek wellington with carrots and pepper gravy: The star of the night with a perfect balance of pastry to filling, paired with an excellent sauce.

Banoffee Pie - Banana crème with wattle seed caramel and caramelized white chocolate: A sweet ending to the night with a unique spin on a beloved dessert.

Overall, the concept fits its inspiration for a fusion between British heritage and Singaporean delights. It is a great test bed for Chef Nelly to collect feedback and gain experience for potentially opening a Singapore restaurant in the future.

Experience it for yourself at Cook and Brew until 11 October:

Cook & Brew | Marina Bay Dining Offers

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