Audience: Couple

Dreaming Of Sandy Beaches From Your Office Cubicle? 2 Hours Is All You Need

One great thing about Singapore is, we’re strategically smacked between wonderful beaches. Yes, they may not be as well known as Hawaii or Maldives but if you’re desperately in need of a beach vacay, how about turning to our neighbours for a sweet escape?

We present you 6 beach getaways near Singapore for 6 types of beachgoers.

1. For the lazy bums – Bintan, Indonesia

If you’re too lazy and desperately in need of a beach vacay (and Siloso is not an option), just head to Tanah Merah, hop on a ferry and take off to Bintan Island! Although it’s more like a stay-in-a-resort type of getaway, the ride to the island only takes an hour! And that’s what we call a hassle free vacay!

We highly recommend the white sandy  Image source: Image source: Thousand Wonders[/caption] [caption id="attachment_13214" align="alignnone" width="900"] Image source: Image source: Image source: Image source:  For the surfer dudes and dudettes, this is defo the place to go for some wave chasing.  We heard that surfers love the big waves at Bangko-Bangko (also known as Desert Point) and if surfing is not your thing, go snorkeling in the beautiful reefs of the Gili islands or even volcano exploring at Rinjani.

[caption id="attachment_13230" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image source: Image source: Reddit[/caption] [caption id="attachment_13233" align="alignnone" width="936"] Image source: Expedia[/caption]

Lombok is slowly catching up on their tourism so you might wanna visit them soon before it becomes the second Bali.

Getting there: Take a 2 hours and 15 mins direct flight to Lombok via Silk Air.

4. For the party people – Boracay, Philippines

Getting to Boracay might be a bit of a hassle but trust us, all the transits and waiting time will be worth it.

[caption id="attachment_13236" align="alignnone" width="999"] Image source: Wikipedia[/caption]

This paradise is divided into 5 areas and White Beach Station 1 is where most of the action takes place (read: swamped with tourist). If you go beyond that section, you’ll find turquoise like water with soft silky sand and a peaceful ambience. Boracay never sleeps, especially Station 1 and 2.

[caption id="attachment_13238" align="alignnone" width="878"] Image source: Image source: Image source:

[caption id="attachment_13245" align="alignnone" width="900"] Image source: Image source: Jim Boud[/caption]

Getting there: Take a 1.5-hour direct flight to Langkawi via AirAsia.

6. For the honey-mooners: Batu Batu, Malaysia

Pulau Tengah may be a privately own island in Johor but there’s one resort on the island where bae and you can enjoy some private time on a paradise nestled between coconut groves, powder white sands and tropical breezes.

Getting there: Take a 2-hour direct bus ride to Mersing (most buses leave from Golden Mile Complex near Lavender MRT), followed by an approx 20-minute speed boat ride arranged by the peeps of Batu Batu.

With 6 stunning beaches to choose from, who is excited for some fun under the sun? Time to start planning your annual leaves and make the bookings! Don’t forget to share these gorgeous beaches with your family and friends and everyone can go together.

Also, read Picturesque & Hidden Spots In Thailand You Must Discover Before They Get Crowded!

Ambassador Highlights #1: Food Tastings, Secret Life of Pets Preview & Beers!

Here at DiscoverSG we’re all bout local events and amazing eats! This weekend the DiscoverSG team and our brand ambassadors headed down to some exciting events!

Here are DiscoverSG’s Brand Ambassador Highlights this month!

1.La Semaine Franҫaise (The French Week)

(Image credit: Dining City SG)

Appreciating the taste of French Cuisine tonight.

A photo posted by Kimberley Yong (@kimberleyyong_) on Aug 23, 2016 at 4:45am PDT

Presenting two of my favorite dishes from last night’s magnificent spread. Compliments to the chef. . From 10 to 17 September, 25 restaurants across the city will be offering exquisite deals of French Food and Wine to share the best of French classic and fusion gastronomy. During this French week, La Semaine Francaise, all first time or frequent French foodies will be able to experience a 3 course meal at these 25 restaurants for just $40++ for lunch and $58++ for dinner. . This is just one of the many interesting weeks or festivals Singapore has to offer. To keep up with more exciting events, follow @discoversgofficial here on Instagram or visit their website <www.discoversg.com> It’s never a boring week with @discoversgofficial ?

A photo posted by Kimberley Yong (@kimberleyyong_) on Aug 23, 2016 at 8:12pm PDT

What’s better than a little French Food to spice up your week? Nothing really according to DSG’s brand ambassador Kimberley Yong.

Supported by The French Ministry of Agriculture, DiningCity, played host for this year’s Le Semaine Francaise (or The French Week for us English speakers). Kimberley tasted some delicate french hors d’oeuvres paired with classic French wines against the backdrop of classic architecture.

For the full list of participating restaurants:

(Image credit: Si Yu)

If you love Asian fusion food and are constantly looking out for new restaurants, we’ve got you covered. Known for its eclectic take on Asian cuisine, Si Yu was there to see it happen!

What did she love best about Ding Dong? The oriental theme and eclectic design of Ding Dong of course!

(Image Credit: Craving for something sweet? Chef Jet Lo serves up a lighter version of the popular traditional Cantonese dessert.The Ding Dong mango with pomelo and sago is reinvigorated with mango foam sorbet and passionfruit puree. With each bite, accompanying fresh pomelo bits and freeze-fried mango chips add an interesting texture.

A weekend in Singapore is just not complete if you’re not catching a movie! Thanks to United International Picture, DiscoverSG’s brand ambassadors Estella Ho and Stephanie (piinkmasquerade) were lucky enough to get tickets to the sneak preview of Secret Life of Pets!

Ever wondered what your pets were thinking and doing when you left the house? The brilliant minds behind Despicable Me and Minions have brought to life an animated comedy about the lives our pets lead .

If you’re a animal lover, a child at heart or if you’re looking for something lighthearted to catch this week (out in cinemas 1 September), head on over to your nearest cineplex and catch Secret Life of Pets!

4. Chang Beer Fest

The weekend is all about kicking back with friends, having a drink or two and getting our hands on some delicious food! The DiscoverSG team and our brand ambassadors (Shivon Chua, Dacia Klee, Anna Ng, Isabel Lee, Rae, Nicole Lee, Vanessa Ho) had an amazing time at the Noise Singapore Festival 2016 – Show Your Support For Our Local Talents!

Because Bangkok Is Overrated, Let These Hidden Gems In Thailand Take Your Breath Away

Thailand has long been one of our top favourite travel destinations. Instead of flocking to the usual tourist spots such as Bangkok and Phuket, how about visiting somewhere different and undiscovered?

Head to these 9 picturesque & hidden spots in the Land of Smiles before everyone discovers it!

1. Northern Thailand

Surrounded by dense forests and tall mountains, northern Thailand enjoys a cooler climate compared to the rest of the country. For a long time, it was pretty much cut off from the rest of the world due to political issues. While it has since opened up, the area is still pretty rustic and retains much of its original charm!

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d120922.35102924087!2d98.8788694445744!3d18.716719887593346!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x30da3a7e90bb6f5d%3A0x98d46270a59b4367!2sChiang+Mai%2C+Mueang+Chiang+Mai+District%2C+Chiang+Mai%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859097272&w=600&h=450]

a. Grand Canyon Chiang Mai

Less than an hour away from the city centre of Chiang Mai lies the unexpected and beautiful Grand Canyon Chiang Mai.

There are no insane crowds as of now, because the awesome landscape is still pretty much a local secret. So swim, sunbathe and cliff jump all you want in this offbeat tranquil space before others know about it!

Address: 244 M.3 T.Namphrae A.hangdong, Chiang Mai, Thailand 50230

How to get there: Be adventurous and rent a motorbike! Follow Google Map directions after keying “Grand Canyon Chiang Mai”. You can also arrange a red truck or taxi to bring you there.

b. Phu Chi Fa

This hidden spot is one of the locals’ favourite places to catch the sunrise, especially during winter from October to February. Because of its remote location and winding roads, it is still an undiscovered and secret spot to most foreigners.

Trek up the 1.8 km trail to the summit and be rewarded with spectacular and breathtaking views, particularly the sea of clouds at dawn! On a clear day, you can even soak in lovely views of the Mekong River and Laos.

Address: Amphoe Thoeng, 130 km from Chiang Rai city. Phu Chi Fa is a mountain located in the area of the Pa Mae Ing and Pa Mae Ngao National Forest Reserve. It’s in Amphur Thoeng in the Chiang Rai Province.

How to get there: 3-hour bus ride from Chiang Rai bus terminal at 1 pm.

2. Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is a haven for many popular beach and island resorts in the country, including the original Thai paradise island – Phuket, Ko Samui and Krabi.

However, there are many more less well-known but surreal beaches and picturesque islands. 

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1011352.8708195522!2d98.43204515739975!3d8.040401747423967!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x30518d792d7f9309%3A0x10223bc2c364c90!2sKrabi%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859313666&w=600&h=450]

a. Railay Bay

Image Credit: Almond Beach Club
Railay Beach rock climbing

Rent a kayak on Railay West Beach from the resorts or right in front of Walking Street. Paddle out to the south of the beach towards the rocky coastline and you can glide through some natural cave tunnels for a fun thrill!

Witness the crumbling limestone cliffs by the bay that will be tinted with rich red and orange colours as the sun sets. Feeling adventurous? Challenge yourself by climbing these towering cliffs for a magnificent bird’s eye view of the pristine beach.

These are just some experiences that will surely guarantee an unforgettable vacay!

How to get there: Take a 15-minute boat ride from Ao Nang Beach in Krabi

3. Northeast Thailand

Northeast Thailand, or Isan as it is commonly known, is home to the best national parks in the country. Here are two fascinating sites in Ko Chang – Thailand’s third largest island. You’ve got to discover it before everyone else does!

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d124861.59596004599!2d102.26155172607647!3d12.048689959804873!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x310413dd86bdba11%3A0x403d84ae1b4d240!2sKo+Chang%2C+Ko+Chang+District%2C+Trat%2C+Thailand!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1471859631912&w=600&h=450]

a. Koh Chang’s waterfalls

[caption id="attachment_12802" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image credit: Geocaching Kai Bae Waterfall[/caption]

Koh Chang is famous for its waterfalls. One of the better and hidden ones is Kai Bae. Tourists may flock to the other waterfalls, but Kai Bae is a well-kept secret of Koh Chang’s local residents and long term expatriates.

It cannot be found on the tourist map, but good news: the waterfalls is relatively easy to access! Free for all to enter, this hidden waterfall is just 30 minutes from the beach!

The best time to visit is from May to November, where there will be enough water plunging from the top to the plunge pool below. Enjoy the refreshing swim and create memories with your loved ones.

How to get there: It’s so undiscovered, it deserves better directions.

Start your walk at the 7-eleven opposite the entrance to Kai Bae Hut. Take the dirt road leading inland, passing by workers’ homes on the right and Sanook Sanag Resort on the left. Following, you will see the laundry for Sea View Resort on your left.

The dirt road now meanders through a pomelo field, passing by the water tower on your right. A few hundred metres further on, look for a stone walled compound about 50 metres off the road on your left.

Another few hundred metres and you will come to a paved road with a couple of bungalows and a concrete sign in Thai. Look out for a sign in English pointing the way to the footpath leading to the waterfall shortly.

4. Western Thailand

Characterised by high mountains and steep river valleys. Western Thailand is home to most of the country’s less-disturbed forest areas. If you are seeking an adventure after your usual shopping haunt in Bangkok, head to Kanchanaburi. It’s just a 3 hours’ drive from the capital city, and the Thais believe it is one of the most beautiful provinces in the country!

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a. Srinakarin National Park

Featuring natural waterfalls, hot springs, and caves, the Srinakarin National Park spans a total area of 1,532 square km. Furthermore, the lush deciduous forest is filled with abundant native wildlife such as leopard cat, slow loris and civets.

Do not forget to check out one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Thailand – the breathtaking 7-level Huay Mae Khamin Waterfall!

How to get there:

By Boat: Charter a boat at Mong Krathae Pier or Tha Kradan Pier, 12 km from the intersection leading to Srinagarindra Dam. It costs 1,500 THB (10 persons) to 3000 THB (30 persons). Upon arrival at Huai Mae Khamin Pier, walk for about 200 metres to the waterfall.

By Bus: Take a Song Thaeo from Wat Thung Lat Ya in Amphoe Mueang passing Ban Ton Maphrao, Ban Nam Mut, Phut Ta Sian and Namtok Huai  Mae Khamin. The bus departs at noon and is about 4 hours’ ride. (Note: Departure time subject to change.)

Admission fee: 300 THB for adults, 200 THB for children

b. Elephant’s World

At Elephant’s World, it’s you who will be working for the elephants, not the other way around!

How is this possible? Elephant’s World is a non-profit elephant refuge that offers an interesting and responsible alternative to the usual tourist elephant camps. Functioning like a “retirement home”, the village houses sick, old, disabled, abused and rescued elephants within the jungle-clad mountains by the River Kwai.

Led by a volunteer guide, you can help take care of Elephants by gathering food, feeding and bathing them. The idyllic environment allows visitors plenty of time and space for intimate encounters with the elephants. Enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience that brings you up close to the lovely animal.

Leave the camp feeling great that you have done something good for the elephants rather than harm them. Moreover, we don’t get such experience in modern Singapore!

Address: 90/9 Moo 4, Baan Nong Hoi, Amphoe Mueang, Tambon Wang Dong, Kanchanaburi 71190, Thailand

How to get there: From Kanchanaburi, follow the 3199 road and turn at the intersection 38/1 for going to Nijiko Resort and Country Club – นจโกะรสอรท แอนด คนทรคลบ and follow the Elephant’s World signs.

With these awesome hidden spots in Thailand so close to Singapore, it seems like your next mind-blowing vacation neither needs to be far away nor expensive!

Rather, what you need is an open mind! Furthermore, there’s so much to do in each of these secret places in Thailand.

You don’t even need to spend big bucks or endure long exhausting flights that sap your energy before you reach paradise! Head to these surreal places before they get too crowded for comfort.

Also, read Singapore’s 63 Islands! Here Are 6 Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd!

Singapore’s 63 Islands – Here Are 6 Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd!

Singapore is actually made up of 63 offshore islands! 62 surround the main island that we live in. If you’re looking to spend your weekends at somewhere less crowded, you can try island-hopping in Singapore! Yes, time to correct that mindset. Singapore is not just a city of one island. It’s SIXTY THREE!

Besides the main island, these are the largest offshore islands; Sentosa, Pulau Tekong, and Pulau Ubin. The smallest island is Pulau Sejarat Kechil. It has a land area of just 0.1 ha!

With interesting islands you can visit without a passport, you can have more fun in the sun! Why not try something unique during your off-day or weekends? You’ll never imagine Singapore as so alluringly attractive with its many hidden islands.

Here are 6 islands you can visit for a quiet day trip away from the city!

1. Pulau Hantu

Located only 30 minutes away from Singapore by boat, Pulau Hantu is a popular haunt for fishing, swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Credit: Credit: Mulloway Dive[/caption]

Pulau Hantu is made up of two smaller islets – Pulau Hantu Besar (Big Ghost Island) and the Pulau Hantu Kechil (Little Ghost Island). The name came about because the mid part of the island “disappears” during high tide.

If you’re not into water activities, both islands are great places to settle down for a nice, cosy picnic. It is also popular with campers and day-trippers who enjoy a unique outdoor experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’d like to camp overnight, a camping permit is required.

How to Get There: There are no scheduled ferries to Pulau Hantu. But you can get there by joining one of the weekend dive trips or by charter boats at the West Coast Ferry Terminal.

2. Kusu Island

Known for its religious Chinese temple and Malay shrines, Kusu Island is packed with people during the ninth lunar month. During this period, Chinese devotees will flock to the island to visit the isolated Chinese temple where Da Bo Gong (God of Prosperity) and Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) reside.

Others make the laborious climb up to the top of the hill to pray at the shrines of three Malay saints. If you’re looking for a quiet refuge, visit the island when it’s not pack during the pilgrimage period.

There are two lagoons, beach shelters, and barbeque pits for you to laze your day away. Enjoy picturesque views and various aquatic plants and animals. What’s more, you may even get to see countless wild tortoises in the area too! Do note that overnight stays are not permitted.

How to Get There: Ferries depart from Marina South Pier daily. Visit their Image credit: islandcruise.com.sg[/caption]

Despite its dark past, St John’s Island has been transformed into an idyllic getaway with an abundance of outdoor activities suitable for all ages.

Spot dolphins by the water, trek up hills or play a game of soccer in the fields. If you’re tired after a long day under the sun, there are several bungalow chalets and bunks in this island that can accommodate up to 60 people.

Be it a family outing or a get-together trip with friends, you’re bound to enjoy this island and have a comfortable place to stay!

How to Get There: Ferries depart from Marina South Pier daily. Visit their 4. Lazarus Island

If you love the sun and beach is your thing, you’ll adore Lazarus Island. Connected by the short causeway to and from St John’s Island is Lazarus Island, a hidden oasis for beach junkies.

Compared to Sentosa and East Coast Park, the beach at Lazarus Island is calm and the waters are cleaner.

Since Lazarus Island is undeveloped, it’s perfect for a visit before it gets too crowded or turns into another Singapore resort. Do note that there are no shower points on the island. The nearest ones would be a short walk away at St John’s Island.

How to Get There: Take a ferry from Marina South Pier to St. John’s Island. Lazarus is a jetty-walk away from St. John’s island.

If you intend to stay overnight at these islands, it’s best to pack wisely! Because there are no amenities or shops, you won’t be able to run out to buy facial wash or tissue.

Here are some essentials you’ll need to bring along: all toiletries, wet and dry tissue papers, water and snacks, mosquito repellent and sunblock! If you’re intending to stay overnight with your BF/ GF as a couple retreat, don’t forget to bring along contraception such as Durex! You’re definitely not going to find any store to purchase contraception in these islands. Even if you’ve been with your partner for a long time and STI is not a concern, you still need to prevent against pregnancy if you’re not ready for a family. Always play safe!

5. Sisters’ Island Marine Park

Home to Singapore’s marine biodiversity, the Sisters’ Island is a dedicated site for marine conservation and research. Visitors to the island will be able to observe marine life such as such as sea fans, sponges and sea anemones.

With many trees providing shade for a leisurely picnic and BBQ pit around the area, Sisters’ Island is the place to visit for a quiet weekend day-trip or evening camping a night here. Yes, you can camp overnight with an approval obtained from Sentosa!

For a more unique experience, sign up for a guided walk to learn about the Marine Park’s amazing biodiversity. These walks are conducted free of charge! Click here for more information on the schedules. In addition, to encourage a deeper appreciation for Singapore’s marine biodiversity, NParks is organising guided dive trails.

How to Get There: Charter your own boat from West Coast Pier or Marina South Pier. Boats will be chartered for participants of NParks’ guided walks.

Bonus: Pulau Satumu

Tiny in size, Pulau Satumu is Singapore’s most southern island and is surrounded by crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Home to the Raffles Lighthouse, this island is a beauty!

Unfortunately, this island is not open for public visit. However, there are some golden opportunities at certain times of the year when you can join a guided tour operated by Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority!

Bored of spending your weekends and free time in the main Singapore island? Call all your kakis and have a fun time out in the sun! It’s time to discover the other side of Singapore you’ve never seen before!

(Header image by mothership.sg, edited by writer)

Also, read Stuck In Singapore? Here Are 10 Uncommon Places To Visit For A Different Kinda Fun!

[Compiled] Here Are ALL The Highlights From This Year’s Singapore Night Festival!

If you weren’t in the vicinity of Bras Basah and Bugis last weekend, you (almost) missed out on one of the most spectacular night festivals in 2016! This year’s Singapore Night Festival went off with a bang, and the streets of Bras Basah and Bugis came to life with beautiful art installations, light projections, roving performers and plays.

This year’s theme was fittingly named “Innovations and Inventions”, the perfect entanglement of 19th century industrialisation interwoven with design. We created a list of highlights from this year’s Singapore Night Festival which was definitely worth the crowd!

(Image credit: (Image credit:
(Image credit: Peranakan Museum)

By far one of the busiest zones, Armenian street was chock full of roving street performers, live music and art installations. Couples danced the night away in the pedestrian only streets swaying along to the music presented by the Substation.

Looking for something to pull you into a world of wonder ? House of Curiosities may just be thing you’re looking for. Based on the storyline of The Mechanical Heart, it tells the heartwarming story of inventor Professor Chambers and his son Christopher. Eccentric and featuring steampunk creations and Victoria era art and fashion, this exhilarating performance is a must-catch during the Singapore Night Festival.

Ticket price: $16 (Adults), $13 (Concession*) Inclusive of $1 SISTIC Fee
Timing: 6 – 8pm, 8.30 -10.30pm, 11pm – 1am

Zone 4: Singapore Management University

(Image credit: Yahoo.com)

If you’re looking to kickback with friends over drinks and light snacks, head on over to Campus Green of the Singapore Management University. Offering a barrage of bites, drinks and small knick knacks, this is a zone for all you foodies!

Zone 5: Singapore Art Museum, Queen Street, Waterloo Street and National Design Centre

(Image credit: (Image credit: Singapore Art Museum)

End your night at the Singapore Art Museum, the facade becomes the backdrop of light projections. Sit back and admire the complex light show move across the buildings complementing the architecture of this national attraction.

If you missed out on this awe-inspiring showcase of art, lights and sound. Do not fret! The Singapore Night Festival continues this weekend, 26-27 August (this is your last chance! Don’t say we didn’t warn you!) So bring your friends, family and significant other to this extra-special weekend out!

Photography Spots: Bluff Your Friends With These 6 Places That Just Don’t Look Like Singapore

Singapore may be small. We might not have any seven wonders of the world, but our tiny island has pretty spots too! If you’ve liked our previous post of enchanting and secret photography spots, we have curated another list of beautiful photography spots in Singapore to explore!

1. Raffles Marina

Sitting at the end of the pier overlooking Raffles Marina stands Johor Straits lighthouse, otherwise known as Raffles Marina lighthouse. The location is about as far West of Singapore as it can get. You can actually bring your passport and cross over to Malaysia! This lighthouse overlooks Tua Second Link and acts as a guide for yachts navigating into and out of the marina.

Visit during sunset and enjoy the fresh air and sea breeze. You might even get a picturesque photo with a backdrop of a pastel-hued sunset with Malaysia in the background! In addition, within its proximity is the Raffles Marina Club. You can even take photos with the backdrop of expensive yachts! This is certainly one of the best photography spots to add to your list!

Location
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Location
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2. The White Rabbit

Located at Dempsey Hill, The White Rabbit is a restaurant housed in the beautifully restored 1930s Ebenezer chapel. It has a charming garden, which is great for an enchanting photo shoot.

This restaurant lends a whimsical touch to those who seek its delightfully themed surroundings. Based on the story of Alice in Wonderland, this one is for those who love a little whimsy and magic with its gorgeous walkways, delightfully-mismatched furniture and well-manicured lawns.

Location
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3. Botanic Gardens

Known for its beautiful gardens and structures for wedding pictures, here’s another location to consider for your nature photography spots. Arrive early to avoid the crowd and curious stares of on-lookers at Botanic Gardens. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful, soft morning glow of the sun and the peaceful atmosphere for being an early bird!

Although Singapore Botanical Gardens is very large, almost every part of the garden serves as a good backdrop for your shoot. Other than popular photography spots such as Healing Garden, Sun Garden, and The Swan Lake, you can also hunt down hidden photography spots around the garden.

You’ll be amazed at the amount of magical and enchanting photography spots you can find in Botanic Gardens!

Location
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4. Bukit Timah Saddle Club

Come in the morning and spend a day with these lovely horses. You could even bring along rustic props for country-inspired snaps!

Do note that a fee is required to take a photo shoot with the horses. If you’re not in for paying extra, the spot near the hill is also a great place for a nice shoot. Walk up the hill to the other side and you can find beautiful greenery. In addition, have your brunch at the highly raved brunch spot at Riders cafe!

Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d15954.88917467122!2d103.7972337!3d1.3430172!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x4d847d1cb441d452!2sBukit+Timah+Saddle+Club!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1469089692164&w=600&h=450]

5. Little Guilin

Known as Little Guilin or Xiao Guilin, this park is located at Bukit Batok is similar to Guilin in China as a huge granite rock sits within the lake. The park is beautifully landscaped so you can walk along the banks of the lake and take really pretty shots with the gorgeous landscape backdrop.

In addition, the two dome shaped shelters at Little Guilin can act as a beautiful frame to your photo.

Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.7009632370555!2d103.75121091532198!3d1.356023461931909!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31da10481370263d%3A0x7bd52a1da9b519eb!2sLIttle+Guilin!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1468918199643&w=600&h=450]

6. Chinese and Japanese Gardens

Located just a stone’s throw away from Chinese Garden MRT station, the gardens are picture perfect from every angle. With expansive green lawns, trees, and pagodas, what more can you ask for?

Do visit the gardens in the cooler late afternoon and evening to avoid being scorched under the hot sun.

Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.734880136494!2d103.72892241532203!3d1.33528316199264!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31da1002e7d9f861%3A0x4280db90c68a90fb!2sJapanese+Garden!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1468804926651&w=600&h=450]

Spend your next weekend exploring a whole new part of Singapore you’ve never visited. Get your DSLR ready or simply bring your iphone along and visit these beautiful photography spots!

(Header image by Scott KJ Photography)

Also, read Stuck In Singapore? Here Are 10 Uncommon Places To Visit For A Different Kinda Fun!

[WIN] Tickets To A Romantic Movie With Your Date Under The Stars!

What’s better than catching an award-winning film at the natural amphitheatre of Fort Canning Park against the backdrop of a gorgeous sunset? Doing all of that whilst tucking into a gourmet picnic basket and sipping away at your favourite wine as the sunset fades to a sky full of stars. How romantic is that?

If you haven’t already heard, Singapore’s premier open-air cinematic event, Films at the Fort, is back! Whether you’re planning a date night or just looking to chill with your khakis, this novel cinematic experience will surely do the trick.

Films at the Fort – Singapore’s outdoor film festival

Held from 11^th – 21^st August, the outdoor film festival this year will boast a showing of eleven quality films.

Film programme

Forrest Gump – Romantic comedy drama

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLvqoHBptjg

“My momma always said, life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get”

Amongst the selection is Forrest Gump, a movie classic probably even the most reluctant cinema patron has heard of. Starring Tom Hanks as the slow-witted Forrest Gump, this feel-good ’90s film shows one man’s epic journey through significant historical events without him actually knowing their significance. Full of funny anecdotes and stories, this film will be sure to warm the cockles of your heart.

Brooklyn – Romantic drama

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15syDwC000k

If you’re into something more recent, we’d recommend the recent award-winning Brooklyn, a film featuring a young Irish immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn. Despite falling into a new romance, the Irish maiden gets homesick trying to assimilate into the Brooklyn culture. Watch as she struggles with the decision between the two countries and all that exist within. Do note that this film is NC16.

Fans of The Theory of Everything on the other hand, will appreciate The Man Who Knew Infinity, a story about a self-taught mathematical genius discovered by a Cambridge professor. Other film selections include Amy, The Nice Guys, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl, A Hologram for the King and more.For more details about the film programme at Films at the Fort, click here.

We’re going to go out on a limb and say that this year’s event is going to be pretty kickass!

Gourmet food selection at Films at the Fort

Food wise, fans of Shakespeare in the Park will find the options familiar. Helmed by the team from If you’re feeling fancy, feel free to indulge in an Antipasti Platter ($24.50) or even a Cheese Platter ($24.50). Pair them with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir ($10 per glass/$48 per bottle). Snacks such as Gourmet Popcorn ($5) and non-alcoholic sparkling juices and soda will be available. Of course, you’re welcomed to prepare your own picnic basket but do note that all alcohol must be purchased at the event.

For the full menu, click here.

Get your tickets

A different film will be screened each night of the event. We recommend you get tickets to this sell-out event fast or you know, weep. Hurry before there are no tickets left. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

[caption id="attachment_11533" align="alignnone" width="1199"] Source: Films at the Fort[/caption]

All psyched for Singapore’s only open-air cinematic festival? Here’s your chance to

Win a pair of tickets to Films at the Fort!

There are two pairs of tickets up for grabs!

First pair: Brooklyn
Screening date: Tuesday, 16 August

Second pair: Forrest Gump
Screening date: Saturday, 20 August

All screenings start between 7:30PM and 7:40PM. Gates, bar, and food stalls open at 5:00PM. Arrive early to secure your favourite spot on the grass and watch the sun set with your date!

Here’s how you can win

1. LIKE and SHARE this post on Facebook
2. COMMENT to tell us which film you’d like to catch, and who you’ll bring with you!

That’s all you need to do to stand a chance to win a pair of tickets to the showing of either Forrest Gump or Brooklyn! It’s that simple. Giveaway will end 3^rd August and the two lucky winners will be notified through Facebook.

Already bought tickets? Don’t forget to bring along a nice picnic mat and an umbrella! We’re not going to jinx anything, but we’ll be praying alongside with you for great weather.

This article is brought to you by Discover SG x Films at the Fort

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/posts/2050653345160357

Films At The Fort presented by Casillero del Diablo is Singapore’s premier open-air cinema event, combining award winning films with gourmet food and wine. Set in the natural amphitheatre of Fort Canning Park from 11th-21st August 2016, this is the perfect place to unwind with friends over a sunset drink before enjoying a quality film under the stars.

(Header image by Films at the Fort)

Also, read [WIN] An Extravagant Dinner Buffet For 2 At The Line, Shangri-La!