Hot spots on the waves

One frequent floater, who goes on four cruises a year, claims that "the friends you make on a cruise become friends for life". Last November, three couples - complete strangers - met at the dining table of a Royal Caribbean International cruise and this November, we will meet to plan our next cruise.

We have this year shared a Chinese New Year meal, celebrated three birthdays, and had a National Day popiah dinner. So, some truth in that, then. Whether newly wed, long-in-the-tooth married, going steady or just going great as friends, a ship cruise is the ideal setting. For couples and singles to re-engage relationships and friendships, not to mention comradeship forged with new friends well met at sea.

(Did you notice the suffix "ship" in the above?) Picture yourselves on the bestequipped moveable island that every other day docks alongside the harbour of a fabled town or city.

Your "shore leave" could include a renown bah kut teh under a spreading tree in Port Klang; an invigorating foot massage on the beach in Phuket; shopping and slurping pho in Vietnam; checking out Michelinstarred dim sum in Hong Kong; being photo- bombed while you navigate between 1,001 bicycles in any square in China.

And back to your cabin at night, without a packing care in the world. Choose from the three-to-eight night cruises from Singapore to Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong and China. It's a great-value-for-money package on board the Royal Caribbean International's Mariner of the Seas and its hallmark Gold Anchor Service.

Here's a tip: Sail during off-peak seasons between January to March next year for more attractive fares and better stateroom availability.

Think of this 15-deck-high cruise liner Mariner of the Seas as your own private haven.

Even with more than 3,800 guests - and the most incredible ship's crew you'll meet - you can actually be alone, or be the life and soul of the party.

Therein lies the beauty of a holiday on the high seas onboard a cruise ship like the Mariner of the Seas.

It is the perfect singles and couples getaway stage (or hideaway if you wish) for socialising or meditative solitude, or both. As soon as you board, a hint of the carnival to come will melt away your workaday blues and daily stresses.

Over three to eight nights, couples old and young will re-discover romance, both dormant and volcanic; and singles will have the time of their lives they have been missing in the daily drudge of office life.

It is infectious and contagious, the high holiday spirit throughout the ship and its myriad signature amenities and activities. Games. Shows. Gym. Spa. Song. Dance. Classes. Shops. 3D Movies. Library. And food, glorious food, 24/7.

And photo opportunities at every turn from bow to stern, portside and starboard. You'll come away refreshed and recharged, and re-romanced or new-romanced!

As the Best Cruise operator of the TTG Travel Awards 2013 for six consecutive years, you can trust Royal Caribbean International to meet your every need. Heartpumping animation, or the sea of tranquility that you seek, it's all contained here.

The Royal Promenade

This is the main artery, lined with boutiques, cafes and pubs. On some nights, it is lit up by a street parade of dancers.

Wherever you are, rush back for its 70s Street Disco Party, which you positively have to join in. Yes, that is the crew member who fashions your room towels into elephants and apes daily, now doing a John Travolta in shiny whities. Fret not, the branded goods and luxury labels will stay open for you.

Studio B Ice Skating Rink

A cast of international pro skaters will freeze-jaw you with their stunts, and if you want to have a go on the ice, it's free. Yes, they do provide skates.

Full-Sized Sports Court

Shooting hoops at sea? What about a slam-dunk? Sure thing, you can play basketball and volleyball on a full-sized sports court too.

In-line skating, mini-golf, rock-climbing if you're so inclined. BOS (bring own socks) - required for rock-wall climbing.

Three-Tier Theatre

World-class entertainment every night, with the ship's original productions. Oh, you might just notice the familiar face of a crew member in the chorus line!

Fitness Centre & Vitality Spa

How to stay ship-shape? Check out the largest fitness facility at sea in Asia. Work up a sweat as you enjoy a panoramic ocean view, or take a fun and easy class with trained instructors.

Then indulge in a luxurious spa treatment, like a couple massage. Solarium and Outdoor Pools

Couples or singletons can catch the stars in the sky and on the big outdoor screen as films and sportscasts are shown. Or chill together in the Solarium and whirlpools.

Viking Crown Lounge

Royal Caribbean International's landmark lounge right at the top of the ship with its awesome view of the sea. It's where you can read a book by day, and rock and roll the night away to the live band.

While you can order room service - no charge between 5am to midnight - there is a wide choice of cuisines: Main Dining Room and Windjammer Café buffet are included in the package. But for a small cover, there's Chops Grille Steakhouse for premium cuts, Giovanni's Table for rustic Italian fare, and Johnny Rockets for burgers and fries - and dancing waiters.

And should you fancy alone-time, there's breakfast on your very own private balcony, which you can order by room service.

Nothing's too good to fan the romance - you may want to consider the super Balcony Staterooms and Suites, or the promenade Staterooms overlooking the Royal Promenade.

This article was published by the Special Projects Unit, Marketing Division, SPH.

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