9 Exciting Ways To Kill Time In Changi Airport When You’re Stuck In Transit
Changi Airport – the pride and joy of Singapore.
Yesterday, its status as a world class airport was further confirmed as Changi Airport was once again crowned Best Airport in the World. This would be the eighth time it’s won the honour!
While most, if not all of us Singaporeans have been to Changi Airport at some point, not all of us have explored it enough to know everything it has to offer.
Whether you’re stuck in transit or have arrived at the airport hours too early for your flight, here are 9 exciting things you can do at the airport to pass the time!
1. Entertainment Deck
The Entertainment Deck is the place to go for a group with diverse interests. You’ll find more than just a few sets of Xbox 360s and Playstation 3s, a Wii room, and even a LAN cafe you can use for free!
[caption id="attachment_23781" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]
Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: Image Credit: These Innovative Kickstarter Products Show That S’poreans Have Brilliant Ideas Too
6 Places In Singapore With The Dreamiest Bespoke Cakes For Your Special Day
All celebratory occasions call for cake and whether you are celebrating your 21st birthday, wedding or baby shower, nothing is more perfect for the occasion than a bespoke cake!
Why go for the conventional Blackforest Cake or Strawberry Cheesecake? Let your imagination run free and create one-of-a-kind bespoke cakes at these bakeries in Singapore!
1. Temptations Cakes
Established in 1985, there is a reason why homegrown bakery Temptations Cakes has stuck around for so long. Their classic cakes and selection of sweet treats will certainly leave you wanting more.
Naturally, this is one of the best places to customise your very own cake for your special occasion.
[caption id="attachment_23375" align="aligncenter" width="768"]
Image Credit: Temptations Cakes Facebook[/caption]
Whether you are looking for a fancy wedding cake or a festive-themed cake, Temptation Cakes is sure to nail it. Of course, like any other bakery, it is best to place your order in advance. After all, these bakers and cake designers definitely need the time to craft out that perfect bespoke cake for your special day.
Temptations Cakes While Bloomsbury Bakers specialises particularly in buttercream, fondant and fresh floral cakes cake designs, if you have something else in mind, feel free to let them know! Besides the bespoke cakes, you can also order dessert tables as well as baby shower gift boxes for your special moment as well! Bloomsbury Bakers Their handcrafted cakes and hand-made sugar flower petal decorations are all meticulously hand-painted by the team at Winifred Kristé Cake. You can choose from cake flavours ranging from the classic Vanilla Bean to the popular Earl Grey Chocolate. Winifred Kristé Cake Whether you are a macaron lover or adore rainbow-layered cakes, it will be perfectly reflected in the cakes Li Tying creates! Create your dream cake right here at Little House Of Dreams! Their specialty lies in creating fondant cakes, which essentially means they can re-create literally any cake theme that you have in mind! A gorgeous-looking cake should also taste equally delicious, which is why all their fondant cakes are also ganached in premium chocolate! From castle fondant cakes to carousel fondant cakes, each of the cakes are carefully crafted with amazing designs such as watercolour and even graffiti effects! With their team of talented and creative fondant artists, Little House Of Dreams will certainly make your dream cake a reality! Little House Of Dreams Besides her cakes, you can also indulge in some of Shiberty’s other specialty desserts such as honey toasts and all-day brunch at her cafe located along Owen Road. Shiberty Bakes If you have an upcoming occasion that calls for it, customise your own cakes at these bakeries! While prices might be on the steeper side compared to other off-the-shelf cakes, it beats having a conventional cake at your special event! These novelty cakes will no doubt impress your guests with their unique designs. Most importantly, a bespoke cake design best reflects you, your personality and your preferences as you celebrate your special and important moment! (Top Image Credit: singaporebrides.com) Also read, The Wicked Cream: Gourmet Marshmallows To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Address: 42 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 427766
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 7.30pm
Tel: 6440 9200
Image Credit: @bloomsburybakers[/caption]
Address: Blk 30 Bendemeer Road, #01-889, Singapore 330030
Opening hours: Tue to Fri 11am – 7pm; Sat 10am – 7pm; Sun 10am – 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6299 3450
Image Credit: @winifredkristecake[/caption]
Address: 271 Bukit Batok East Ave 4, Block 271, Singapore 650271
Opening hours: Tue to Sat 11am – 7pm (Closed on Sun & Mon)
Email: [email protected]
Image Credit: @nglitying[/caption]
5. Little House Of Dreams
Image Credit: Little House Of Dreams Facebook[/caption]
Address: Block 8 Dempsey Road #01-14, Singapore 247696
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11am – 10.30pm; Fri to Sun & eve of PH 9am – 10.30pm, PH 9am to 11pm
Tel: 6472 4977
Image Credit: @shibertybakes[/caption]
Address: #01-277, 46 Owen Rd, Singapore 210046
Opening hours: Tue to Sun 1pm – 10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6291 5221
Website
Ambassador Highlights #7 – Empire, iFly, Singapore Arts Biennale & A Beauty Boost!
February, our favourite month of the year. Not only is it Valentine’s Day, but here at DiscoverSG, we were busy heading down to events that got us seeing a whole other side to sunny rainy Singapore! Here’s a look at the events we dropped in on this month.
1. Girls Night Out @ Empire Lounge
Here at DiscoverSG, we are strong advocates of the philosophy “work hard, play harder”, which is why we were ecstatic to hear that we had snagged invites to Empire Lounge.
[caption id="attachment_23333" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Fifty Raffles Place[/caption]
Not only is Empire Lounge right smack in the middle of the CBD (it’s located at Singapore Land Tower, a minute’s walk from Raffles MRT) it also boasts breathtaking views of the Marina Bay area thanks to its location 48 floors above the CBD.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQImD4yg3it/?taken-by=gracekowie&hl=en
The DiscoverSG team headed down to Empire Lounge with our ambassadors, Shivon, Victoria and Grace. We were psyched to bond over drinks, enticing eats and the amazing view! The best part about Empire Lounge? The ‘cannot miss’ drink deals of course!
So if you’re keen to kick back after a long day at work, head on down to Empire Lounge!
Empire Lounge
Address: 50 Raffles Place, S048623
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 5pm – 1am; Fri – Sat: 5pm – 3am
Facebook
2. Indoor Skydiving Experience @ iFly
Adrenaline junkies out there, we’re guessing skydiving is somewhere at the top of your bucket list. Unfortunately, its not something you would do at a whim, what with it being so expensive. Luckily for us, iFly Singapore offers a similar experience at a fraction of the price!
[caption id="attachment_23334" align="alignnone" width="3318"]
iFly @ Sentosa[/caption]
Located a stone’s throw away from Sentosa’s Beach Station, iFly Singapore is a state-of-the-art flight facility that is also the largest themed indoor skydiving simulator in Southeast Asia!
We were lucky enough to have a go at the First Timer Challenge Package ($119), which consists of 2 skydives of 45 seconds each. That is the same time it takes to free fall from 12,000 to 3,000 feet, as with an actual skydive!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ5C6_IhBx8/?taken-by=vaneszs.h
Our ambassadors Vanessa and Nicholas had a blast having a go at the simulated skydiving experience! Definitely a one-of-a-kind experience, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking a new experience, indoor skydiving is definitely an experience worth trying!
Check out our article to find out more about our experience at iFly Singapore!
iFly Singapore
Address: 43 Siloso Beach Walk #01-01 Singapore 099010
Opening Hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun: 9.00am – 9.30pm; Wed: 11.00am – 9.30pm
Contact No.: 6571 0000
Palate Sensations[/caption]
We were keen to pick up a few (much needed) kitchen skills, so we headed to Palate Sensations Cooking School! Palate Sensations is a culinary school which offers cooking classes for both novice and seasoned cooks. Classes range from $125 to $1,400, depending on the duration of the class and your choice of cuisine.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BRHt8mtBV4x/?taken-by=rachaelwong
Good news? The class is a hands-on experience, so you know you’ll definitely pick up a few skills to impress your family and friends. Palate Sensations can also play host to your hen parties, team building events and even birthday parties!
So head on down to Palate Sensations and indulge in your very own hand-crafted creations!
Palate Sensations
Address: Chromos #01-03, 10 Biopolis Road, S138670
Contact No: +65 6589 8843
Website
5. Beauty Bootcamp With La Roche-Posay
Having perfect complexion is no easy feat. Singapore’s unpredictable weather and the daily use of cosmetics can cause our skin to *gasp* break out. Most of us know the basics of skincare, but not the itty gritty details when it comes to caring for our skin. La Roche-Posay got us learning so much more about our skin!
[caption id="attachment_23344" align="alignnone" width="601"]
La Roche-Posay Singapore [/caption]
Our ambassadors headed down to #123acnefree bootcamp to get all the deets on skincare and how to get our skin glowing and acne-free!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ-FNuHju1c/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/p/BRDZrmBjMGd/?taken-by=omgkrystle
6. Beauty Boost @ Clifford Clinic
Let’s admit it, most of us go the extra mile when it comes to looking good for a special occasion. Manicures, a fresh hair cut and even a new outfit can be a huge confident booster. So, we were pretty excited when we got the chance to head down to Clifford Clinic for some laser treatments.
[caption id="attachment_23392" align="alignnone" width="1000"]
February Events[/caption]
It’s been such an amazing month, chock full of events and happenings! We can’t wait to head to even more events going on in March!
If you’re looking to increase your brand’s awareness and want to introduce products or services both old and new to more Singaporeans, drop us an email at [email protected]. We would love to work with you!
We’re also on the lookout for more ambassadors who are on a mission to discover the fun and exciting things in Singapore. If you love eating, shopping, and discovering new places in Singapore, drop us an email at [email protected].
Also, read Discover SG Ambassador Highlights #6 – Pizza Party, An Acai Date, Food Tastings & More!
These 8 Social Enterprise Eateries Serve Food From The Heart
If there’s one thing Singaporeans share, it’s a common love for food. Local eateries are constantly competing to whet our appetites with new flavours, but some have taken their fare one step further by making a social enterprise out of their businesses.
Whether it’s providing employment opportunities to the marginalised or donating profits to the less fortunate, these eateries have made it their mission to do good.
Check out these 8 social enterprise eateries! The causes they stand for only give us more reason to head out to try the cuisines they have to offer.
1. Art Bar
Get your daily coffee fix at Art Bar, a community project with Starbucks Singapore. Art Bar trains young adults with autism to handle cash and work the coffee machine, and ultimately, become fully-fledged baristas!
[caption id="attachment_23043" align="aligncenter" width="1280"]
Image credit: The Art Faculty by Pathlight[/caption]
Art Bar is one of the various job sites at the E2C campus of Enabling Village. Enabling Village is a cosy community in Singapore where people with different disabilities can move independently, feel accepted for who they are, and be valued for their contributions.
While you’re there, you must try the rich, chocolatey and moist Double Chocolate Chip Muffin. It goes especially well with the Cafe Latte! Other drinks include Cafe Americano, Cafe Mocha and Milo Smoothie.
Art Bar
Where: The Art Faculty By Pathlight, 01-07 Enabling Village, 20 Lengkok Bahru
Hours: 9am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday; closed on Sunday
Phone: 6513 0706
This quiet bao shop just off Upper Thomson Road is more than just another dim sum shop. Its owner, Madam Sarah Tan helps the less fortunate by giving them employment and having them make and sell their steamed buns.
Image credit: The people you’ll see running Choon Ming Bao Dian include those with a history of mental illness, the homeless, single mothers, ex-offenders and foreign workers who were cheated by their agents. Her home has even doubled as a temporary shelter for these people!
Have one of the many yummy types of bao and dimsum available for breakfast! The Dinosaur Bao, Char Siew Bao, Har Gow, and Siew Mai are just some of them. You’ll be sure to feel the warmth from your belly all the way to your heart!
Choon Ming Bao Dian
Where:
203 Toa Payoh North, #01- 1121, Singapore 310203
122 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, Singapore 560122
628 Ang Mo Kio Market & Food Centre, #01-91, Singapore 560628
Facebook
3. Crossings Cafe
The aptly named Crossings Cafe seeks to provide employment opportunities, personal development and dignity to the disadvantaged. The hope is that they will be able to cross boundaries and chart more paths in society.
[caption id="attachment_23045" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]
Image credit: This quaint little social enterprise is sure to not only nourish your stomach, but make you feel more connected to your community as well!
All profits made here are channeled to charitable causes. Also, it is currently collaborating with Assumption Pathway School, taking on students to work at the café as servers, cooks and baristas.
Come down and try their delicious comfort food at affordable prices. Their Signature Chilli Crab Pasta, Gula Melaka Pancake Stack, Grilled Pork and Fennel Burger, and Sweet Potato Fries are sure-bets!
Crossings Cafe
Where: 55 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187954
Open: Mon-Fri 8am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-10pm
Phone: 6336 6203
Email: [email protected]
Facebook
4. Dignity Kitchen
Tucked away in Serangoon is Singapore’s first ever hawker training school. It gives practical training to people with disabilities, so they can secure stable jobs as chefs or hawkers!
[caption id="attachment_23047" align="aligncenter" width="2560"]
Image credit: Adobe Spark[/caption]
80% of its staff is disabled, and another 20% is made up of the elderly and the poor–all of which are able to achieve financial independence working here.
Dignity Kitchen is home to Singaporean favourites like rojak, chicken rice, baked goods and local desserts. You can even pre-order bento boxes for large scale events here!
Dignity Kitchen
Where: Blk 267 Serangoon Avenue 3, #02-02, Singapore 550267
Phone: 8189 7678
Email: [email protected]
Facebook
5. Eighteen Chefs
Opened by an ex-convict himself, Eighteen Chefs inspires troubled youths and people with conviction backgrounds to find positive ways to reintegrate back into society.
[caption id="attachment_23048" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]
Image credit: NEX Serangoon, 23 Serangoon Central, #01-57, Singapore 556083 (And other outlets)Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11.00am to 10.00pm
Telephone: 6634 4642
6. Joan Bowen Cafe
Originally opened by the owners to fulfil their special needs daughter’s wish to be a chef, Joan Bowen Café has since employed more than 10 special needs youths.
[caption id="attachment_23049" align="aligncenter" width="1600"]
Image credit: 9 Jalan Wangi, Singapore 349354Open: 11am to 4pm, Monday & Tuesday; 11.30am to 2.30pm, Wednesday; 11.30am to 2.30pm, 6.30pm to 9.30pm, Thursday & Friday; 1pm to 9.30pm, Saturday; Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays
Phone: 6281 3629
Email: [email protected]
is another cosy social enterprise that provides training and employment opportunities to the disadvantaged, so they can be integrated back into society. [caption id="attachment_23050" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]
Image Credit: New Rasa Singapura[/caption]
Those working in this establishment include people with physical or hearing impairments, recovering stroke patients and mature, vulnerable individuals.
Expect Singaporean favourites like fish head curry, beef rendang, soup kambing, hainanese chicken rice, dry laksa, char kway teow, fried carrot cake, chap chye, and many more!
New Rasa Singapura
Where: 56 Tanglin Road B1-02 Tanglin Post Office Singapore 247964 (opposite Tanglin Mall)
Open: 12noon-10pm; Closed Sundays and public holidays
Phone: 9818 8102
Facebook
8. Qita In The Park
A contagious passion to help the less fortunate was what drove the owner, Genevieve, to leave her cushy lawyer job to run a social enterprise of her own.
[caption id="attachment_23051" align="aligncenter" width="1200"]
Image Credit: This cafe-cum-retail shop showcases beautiful artwork on its walls for sale, in support of the artists at Pathlight. Singapore-themed gifts made by home-bound women and senior citizens are also on display.
Popular picks here include the traditional Singaporean breakfast of half boiled eggs and toast with homemade kaya, made from fresh coconut milk. Lunch sets include fragrant Kampong Chicken Curry with organic basmati rice. Yum!
Qita In The Park
Where: 20 Upper Pickering Street, Telok Ayer Hong Lim Green Community Centre
Open: 7.30am to 6pm, weekdays; 9am to 3pm, Saturday; closed on Sunday.
Phone: 6225 4318
Email: [email protected]
Facebook
These eateries are doing a world of good for those who truly need it, and it has definitely warmed our hearts. If it’s warmed yours too, come show your support for those less fortunate and taste what they have to offer!
Not only will you leave with a full belly, your heart will also be full.
Also, read Bon Appétit! 6 Legit French restaurants In Singapore That Won’t Burn A Big Hole In Your Wallet
10 Marvellous Activities to Kick Off Your March [1-15 March]
Here we are once again at the beginning of a brand new month.
If work or school has fallen into that inevitable lull, don’t worry! As always, we’ve got some awesome events lined up to help you keep things interesting this month!
Here’s a calendar of 10 not-to-be-missed activities to kick start a month to remember!
Play & Discover
1. The Pillowman
Who says the theatre scene in Singapore is dead?
Enter Pangdemonium’s restaging of The Pillowman, a nail-biting, nightmarish nursery story for grown-ups.
The dark comedy, written by Irish playwright Martin McDonagh, will have you squirming at the edge of your seats, even as you roar with laughter.
[caption id="attachment_23258" align="aligncenter" width="1372"]
Image credit: Time Out[/caption]
The story revolves around writer, Katurian, who is interrogated in a dark prison cell. His crime? Penning gruesome fairy tales that bear an uncanny resemblance to a series of child murders. Tensions soon mount as the line between real and fictional worlds blur in this darkly comic psycho thriller.
This sinister stunner of a play is a vicious whirlpool of thrilling storytelling and a scary examination of the very nature and purpose of art.
The Pillowman
Where: 9 Empress Pl, 179556
When: 24 February – 12 March 2017
Timings: Tue-Fri: 7.30pm, Sat: 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun: 2.30pm, Sun: 7.30pm (12 Mar 2017)
Website
2. Singapore International Jazz Festival
Put on your jazz shoes, because the Singapore International Jazz Festival (SingJazz) is back!
#SingJazz2017 promises to be a dazzling musical extravaganza, set against Singapore’s glittering, iconic skyline at Marina Bay Sands.
[caption id="attachment_23260" align="aligncenter" width="900"]
Image credit: Viilevent Photography[/caption]
Get ready for 3 days and 2 nights of world class music entertainment by some of the biggest names in jazz. Headliners include David Foster, Corinne Bailey Rae, Gilles Peterson and more! Kick back by the water as you enjoy the wind in your hair, amazing music in the air, all with a glass of bubbly in your hand!
Also, proceeds from the festival go towards the Foundation for Arts and Social Enterprise, which provides funding to nurture local jazz talents through the Jazz Academy.
Singapore Jazz Festival
Where: Marina Bay Sands Events Plaza (The Main Stage); MBS Expo and Convention Centre (The Late Show)
Address: 2 Bayfront Ave Singapore 018972
Date: 31 Mar-2 Apr 2017
Time: 4pm to 10.30pm (The Main Stage); 10pm to 4am (The Late Show)
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
3. Garden Beats Festival
This March, get ready for the #summervibes at Garden Beats!
Groove to the hottest electronic tunes at Sunshine Nation’s Electronic Picnic Festival. Expect a multi-sensory experience of music, food and games, all at Fort Canning Park.
[caption id="attachment_23256" align="aligncenter" width="1280"]
Image credit: Fort Gate, Fort Canning Park, 11 Canning Walk Singapore 17888Date: 18 March 2017
Time: 1pm to 10.30pm
Website
4. Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
You’re never too old for toys–at least not the ones in this exhibition.
Kult will be showcasing the works of 30 artists and toy makers, in a great coming together of international artists and designers.
[caption id="attachment_23261" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]
Image credit: kult[/caption]
Inspired by the waste of mass production and over consumption, these artists have torn apart existing toys sourced from toy markets, and remixed them into new objects. Some are gruesome, some are hilarious, and all are witty as hell.
You can even make your own art! An assembly line of pre-loved toys will be available at the gallery to take apart and re-build into your own Frankenstein-ian art piece.
Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
Where: kult, C2-5, 11 Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228120
Dates: 17 FEB – 18 MAR 2017
Time: Mon-Fri 11am to 7pm, Sat 2pm to 7pm
Facebook
5. Singapore Design Week
Bet you didn’t know there was a national agency for design.
Well, the Design Singapore Council’s mission is to develop our design sector to make life better. Sounds good to us.
[caption id="attachment_23263" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]
Image credit: Design Singapore[/caption]
What’s better, its annual Singapore Design Week is back!
Get artsy home goods at the International Furniture Fair, experience robust collaborations between local designers and the industry at Singaplural, or get inspired at the ‘Innovation By Design’ Conference.
Expect a week of Singapore’s creative culture and ecosystem that integrates design and creativity into our everyday life!
Singapore Design Week
Where: Multiple venues
When: 3012 March 2017
Phone: 6333 3737
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
Eat
6. PasarBella & Friends Go to Town
Here’s the perfect post workday idea: PasarBella & Friends Go to Town returns for the third iteration of its special pop-up market at this year’s i Light Marina Bay!
[caption id="attachment_23264" align="aligncenter" width="1800"]
Image credit: Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza, 10 Bayfront Avenue 018956Date: 3 – 26 March 2017
Time: 5.00pm – 11.00pm (Sunday – Thursday) 5.00pm – 12 midnight (Friday – Saturday)
Website
7. terratoria OLA
Prep your stomachs for a gastronomical adventure.
Michelin starred Chef Daniel (OLA Cocina Del Mar) and Chef Seita (terra) will come together for a one day only affair that is terratoria OLA!
[caption id="attachment_23259" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]
Image credit: OLA Cocina Del Mar
Address: Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, #01-06 12 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018982
Date: 12 March 2017, 12pm to 4pm
Price: $150++
Reservations: +65 6604 7050
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
8. Singapore Cocktail Festival
Mix it up at Asia’s largest celebration of cocktails this March!
The inaugural Singapore Cocktail Festival promises to be an immersive experience that will excite the palates of novices and aficionados alike.
[caption id="attachment_23265" align="aligncenter" width="1372"]
Image credit: Time Out[/caption]
With a mish mash of activities to Taste, Learn and Play, you’ll get to interact with a truly global lineup of mixologists. Features include some of Singapore’s best cocktail bars, as well as world class bartenders from cocktail cities like Hong Kong, London, New York, Seoul and Tokyo.
Excite your palate at the experiential cocktail village, nurture the budding mixologist in you at the workshops, or jump in a themed cocktail party!
Singapore Cocktail Festival
Where: Multiple venues
When: Thursday March 16 2017 – Tuesday March 21 2017
Email: [email protected]
Website
Facebook
9. Singapore Restaurant Week
The concept of Restaurant Week is unbelievably simple.
Dining City is offering limited seats for a special 3-course lunch and dinner at established local restaurants–for a fraction of their usual prices.
[caption id="attachment_23266" align="aligncenter" width="2560"]
Image credit: 1919 Waterboat House[/caption]
This 3-course menu will be offered at an irresistible fixed price of S$35++ for dinner and S$25++ for lunch all through the week.
Some of these luxe restaurants include the fancy 1919 Waterboat House, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse Singapore, Privé Grill, and Lewin Terrace.
What are you waiting for? Reserve your tables as soon as possible–we don’t know when’s the next time you’ll be able to savour this spread at such good prices.
Singapore Restaurant Week
Where: Participating restaurants
Date: 25 March 2017 – 1 April 2017
Email: [email protected]
Website
Who can resist a good flea and art market?
Much less one in the heart of 20 dazzling light art installations from 9 different countries. Enter Hypefest @ i Light Marina Bay!
[caption id="attachment_23255" align="aligncenter" width="850"]
Image credit: MAAD[/caption]
Here is your one stop shop for artisanal goods featuring over 50 indie labels. Find eco-friendly crafted gifts and even personalized merchandise!
We won’t say more! Come down and experience it all for yourself. It’ll be an evening of pleasant discovery that’s sure to excite!
Hypefest @ i Light Marina Bay
Date: 3 Mar 2017 – 26 Mar 2017
Time: 4.00pm to 11.00pm
Venue: Marina Bay Seating Gallery Platform 20 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039805
Website
Excited yet? With this list of the freshest events, yummiest food spots, and shopping opportunities, there’s no reason to say “Singapore got nothing to do”!
Grab your friends and family, and kick back at these cannot miss activities! They’re sure to offer a well-deserved break from the work desk to keep you going all through the month.
Keep calm and March on!
Also read, These Light Art Installations Popping Up At Marina Bay Will Make You See Nature In A Whole New Light
These Light Art Installations Popping Up At Marina Bay Will Make You See Nature In A Whole New Light
i Light Marina Bay is back for its fifth edition, featuring 20 light-art installations from 9 different countries.
Although this year, there are 5 less installations from i Light 2016’s 25, this year’s festival will feature three festival hubs and a collaboration with international light festivals.
Urchin
[caption id="attachment_22933" align="aligncenter" width="750"]
By night, the lace structure inspired by the sea urchin illuminates the viewer. By day, intricate shadows are cast by the sunlight onto the boardwalk and passers-by. (Photo Credits: Choi+Shine Architects)[/caption]
Themed ‘Light & Nature’, i Light Marina Bay 2017 explores the intriguing tension between Singapore the concrete jungle and the ever present light and nature in our garden city.
Three New Festival Hubs
This year, the annual event caters more to families with its three festival hubs that feature sustainability workshops, activities for kids, and several F&B outlets.
Located at The Promontory @ Marina Bay, The Float @ Marina Bay and the Bayfront Event Space, parents can bring their children to each of these three areas for some family-friendly fun!
The Colourful Garden of Light
[caption id="attachment_22928" align="aligncenter" width="750"]
Brightly lit flower and butterfly sculptures tower over the viewer, celebrating the coming of Spring in the midst of our urban lives. (Photo Credits: Tilt)[/caption]
For the tiny tots, parents of toddlers can head to The Float @ Marina Bay for the Art Zoo, where the children can go crazy on the inflatable playground, set majestically in a colourful zoological garden. With giant inflatable animal sculptures, this is a hands-on experience not to be missed by both Mummy and Baby.
Want to teach your older kids about recycling, urban farming and kinetic energy? The Promontory @ Marina Bay is the place for you! It features the Fantastical World of eco.me, a learning experience made fun by The Rice Company, an arts and cultural non-profit organisation in Singapore.
To satisfy your tummies after a long day of learning and interacting with the installations, the Bayfront Event Space will provide you with a spread of yummy treats. To round up the day, you and your tired kids can also enjoy the live music performances!
Ocean Pavilion
[caption id="attachment_22932" align="alignnone" width="930"]
20,000 crowd-sourced recycled plastic bottles will be added to the original metal structure, which will be lit with energy-efficient LED light. This immense light-art piece shows us the beauty in being green. (Photo Credits: Luke Jerram)[/caption]
The introduction of the three family-friendly festival hubs is meant to help “reinforce the position of Marina Bay as a sustainable precinct”, says festival Director and Director (Place Management) of URA, Mr Jason Chen.
With the main focus of the i Light Marina Bay festival being environmental stability, Mr Chen adds that the URA is “glad to be able to involve our local community and younger generation to contribute to this meaningful festival.”
Ultra (Light)
[caption id="attachment_22941" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Made from 150 3D-printed nodes, this structure stands at 2.5m tall and allows viewers to get up close and personal with it. (Photo Credits: Felix Raspall, Carlos Banon, Manuel Garrido and Mohan Elara)[/caption]
International light-art installations
Along with the new festival hubs are light-art installations from 9 countries, including France, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
i Light Marina Bay 2017 will also be collaborating with international light festivals, namely the Bella Skyway Festival in Poland, the Scottsdale Canal Convergence in the United States and the Amsterdam Light Festival in The Netherlands.
In return for three wonderful installations, we will be sending an installation by local artist Lee Yun Qin.
Moonflower
[caption id="attachment_22930" align="aligncenter" width="750"]
Using solar-powered LED light to glow in the dark, this beautiful display shows the strangely complementary relationship between nature and technology, especially in our tiny tech-focused nation. (Photo Credits: Lee Yun Qin)[/caption]
Her installation, ‘Moonflower’, featuring over 800 luminescent flowers made of wire mesh, will be showcased at the Scottsdale Canal Convergence 2017 in the United States.
For a minimum price of $5, these 800 over stalks of flowers will be up for grabs to the public, with all proceeds going to the Garden City Fund, a charity supporting urban biodiversity and landscaping efforts in Singapore.
Northern Lights
[caption id="attachment_22931" align="aligncenter" width="750"]
A symbol of friendship, Stockholm-based artist Aleksandra programmed her light-art installation to create an unpredictable curtain of light. (Photo Credits: Aleksandra Stratimirovic)[/caption]
In exchange, we in Singapore will be the happy recipients of Northern Lights by Swedish artist Aleksandra Stratimirovic, HYBYCOZO by American artist Yelena Filipchuk and Canadian artist Serge Beaulieu, and Home by Anna Galas from Poland.
Home
[caption id="attachment_22929" align="alignnone" width="930"]
Using only light, Anna reimagines a simple sketch of Home as a 3D light display. (Photo Credits: Anna Galas)[/caption]
When asked for the inspiration behind the international collaborations this year, Festival Curator and Principal Architect of Zarch Collaboratives, Mr Randy Chan, said that through collaboration, they hope to “bring our local artists to an international level”, as well as to “give a larger footprint to what i Light Marina Bay can do, not just in Singapore itself”.
HYBYCOZO
[caption id="attachment_22969" align="alignnone" width="800"]
Inspired by it’s creators’ favourite book, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, this structure is a dazzling harmony between by science, technology and geometry. (Photo Credits: Yelena Filipchuk and Serge Beaulieu)[/caption]
Noting that the theme of Light & Nature was a perfect fit with “the backdrop of the garden city we live in,” Mr Chan added that “[it] is encouraging to see continued interest and participation from local and international artists and [he] hope[s] the art work will inspire visitors to kick-start their personal sustainable journey.”
Lending a strange beauty to the Marina Bay waterfront promenade this year, the i Light festival is an event you won’t want to miss! Come on down from March 3-26 to check out these incredible, educational and environmentally-conscious art-light installations! You definitely won’t regret bringing your friends and family to check out i Light Marina Bay 2017.
i Light Marina Bay
3-26th March 2017
Marina Bay Waterfront: Free Admission*
Main event 7:30PM to 11:00PM (extended to 12:00mn on Fri & Sat nights)
*Charges apply for some attractions. See i Light Marina Bay website for more details.
Also read, Because Skydiving Is Expensive AF, iFly Singapore Lets You Enjoy The Flight Without Feeling The Burn
Because Skydiving Is Expensive AF, iFly Singapore Lets You Enjoy The Flight Without Feeling The Burn
Always wanted to try skydiving but don’t have the courage or funds to do so? Why not try indoor skydiving for a taste of the real thing!
With a safe and controlled indoor environment, you don’t have to worry about anything going wrong. Plus, you will only need to pay a fraction of the price!
Located a stone’s throw away from Sentosa’s Beach Station, iFly Singapore is a state-of-the-art flight facility that is also the largest themed indoor skydiving simulator in Southeast Asia.
Designed with an airport theme in mind, features like a flight status board at the entrance for customers to check when to ‘board’ their flight and the sound of airplanes in the training room make a trip to iFly Singapore a total experience.
Finding Our Wings
We tried the First Timer Challenge Package ($119), which consists of 2 skydives of 45 seconds each. That is the same time it takes to free fall from 12,000 to 3,000 feet, as with an actual skydive!
After registering and signing the waiver and indemnity forms, you’ll watch a few video presentations which will take you through certain safety procedures and some things to take note of while flying in the wind tunnel.
Once all these nitty gritties are over and done with, it’s time to learn how to fly!
Your flight instructor will guide you through a practical training where you learn how to posture yourself during flight, how to enter and leave the wind tunnel, and some simple hand signals to communicate while in the wind tunnel. (You’ll be wearing earplugs while in there!)
You’ll finish with some light stretching, before heading to the Gear Up counter to get suited up!
[caption id="attachment_23120" align="alignnone" width="3318"]
DiscoverSG Ambassadors Vanessa, Nicholas and Hilda in their flight gear[/caption]
During the flight, there isn’t much to remember: have your arms out at right angles, bend your legs slightly and keep your chin up.
Each flyer will enter the wind tunnel one at a time, which means you’ll get the instructor’s full attention while flying! He will be watching or holding on to you, depending on how much help you need.
[caption id="attachment_23122" align="alignnone" width="3318"]
Vanessa attempting ‘Belly Flying’, the most basic of the four positions of body flight[/caption]
From inside the wind tunnel, you’ll be treated to a gorgeous view of the South China Sea. If you time your flight exactly right, you can even catch the fireworks from the nearby Wings of Time that happens nightly!
DSG Tip: To see the fireworks while flying, try catching a 8.00pm or 9.00pm flight.
While your first flight might be a bit of a hot mess (as mine was), you’ll probably get the hang of it by the second flight. After knowing what to expect in the wind tunnel and having had some practice, you’ll be more at ease and enjoy the flight a whole lot more!
What You Can Expect…
One thing we definitely did not expect from our flight was getting saliva all around our mouths, and for some of us, even on our faces! Yep, that’s what happens when there are strong winds blowing at your face when your mouth is open while flying.
[caption id="attachment_23123" align="alignnone" width="3318"]
The usual body flight wind speed ranges from 160 to 190kmph, although the four fans that power the wind can produce air speeds of up to 200 kmph—faster than the average speed of an F1 car![/caption]
Another thing we found was that our hair got really tangled from the flight. Girls, expect to be fiddling away with your hair, detangling the knots in it hours after flying, especially if you have long hair! Make sure you take pictures before and not after flying!
DSG Tip: Bring a hair brush if you need to meet someone special/important post-flight.
All these minor inconveniences aside, the flight is definitely an exhilarating experience, especially if you have always wanted to try skydiving! You can even learn cool tricks like flips and flying upside down—but only after you’ve got the basics down.
[caption id="attachment_23121" align="alignnone" width="3069"]
Upon completion of your flight, you’ll receive a certificate stating the achievements you have made![/caption]
The other flyers and I felt extremely safe throughout our flights. iFly Singapore opens its doors to flyers from as young as 7 to as old as 106–that tells you something about the safety standards at the facility!
To give you that added peace of mind, all instructors at iFly Singapore have undergone intensive training complying with the rules and regulations of the International Bodyflight Association (IBA). So, rest assured you’re in capable hands.
Indoor skydiving was definitely a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking a new experience, indoor skydiving is definitely an experience worth trying. Who knows, you just might find yourself a new passion!
This was an invited session from iFly Singapore.
iFly Singapore
Address: 43 Siloso Beach Walk #01-01 Singapore 099010
Opening Hours: Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun: 9.00am – 9.30pm; Wed: 11.00am – 9.30pm
Contact No.: 6571 0000
Everything You Need To Know Before You Take That ‘Easy Money’ Freelance Job
Freelance jobs are increasingly popular among youth in Singapore. Since 2015, why you’re taking the freelancing route are all problems faced by freelancers on a daily basis.
We decided to uncover the truth behind 4 popular freelancing jobs here in Singapore and find out the ‘real cost’ of working as a freelancer.
1. Private Hire Drivers
[caption id="attachment_23010" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
You have a license and your dad hates to drive. Might as well make some money right?! You’ll get to drive whenever and wherever you want and you’ll be meeting loads of new people (like good looking lads and ladies). You’ll also finally be able to tell your mum you were out late “because I was working!”
Youth.sg[/caption]
The Moolah: Expect to get paid from guaranteed fare incentives!
Private-hire drivers are part of a growing gig economy. Gig economy sees such as overtime pay. They also do not receive statutory benefits such as Central Provident Fund contributions from the companies they work for.
So who’s helping private-hire drivers?
[caption id="attachment_23011" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
National Private Hire Vehicles Association (NPHVA) inked a partnership with Grab. Facilitating feedback between drivers and Grab, NPHVA seeks to foster stronger partner relationships. Grab also works in conjunction with e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) to provide mature workers with the opportunity to become drivers with Grab.
2. Food Couriers
[caption id="attachment_23014" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
The Benefits: On the move for most of the day, you’ll look super cool wheezing your way through traffic. Work whenever you want and you’ll finally get that extra amount of cash for the new iPhone (there’s always a new one!).
The Shady Side: Seen Premium Rush? While you’re not going to be targeted by a crazed loan shark, you’ll The Moolah: At $5 – 11 an hour and an additional $4 – 6 a trip, you’ll be making an average of $13 – 30 an hour!
3. Freelance Designers
Let’s face it, clients are difficult. You’ll meet the flaky, the rude and the uptight. And if you’re planning to do freelance designing as a full time job, you’ll spend A LOT of time worrying about when’s your next job (and if you’ll be able to afford rent next month).
The Moolah: While you may start out charging at $50 for one-off projects. Once you’ve built your portfolio, a large project (like a website) could fetch you a cool $1,000 (or more)!
4. Freelance Tutors
Under the Employment Act, part-timers without contracts like tutors, aren’t covered by the Manpower Ministry. With online tuition agencies popping up, you might not even see the organization that has hired you!
NTUC Strives To Protect Freelancers
There is an estimated 200,000 freelancers in Singapore. Unlike employed individuals, freelancers here in Singapore are not legally entitled to statutory protection and benefits such as CPF contributions, annual leave, medical leave and rights under labour legislation such as Employment Act and the Work Injury Compensation Act.
[caption id="attachment_23017" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
NTUC U Portal[/caption]
In its recent Budget 2017 recommendations, NTUC called on the Government to review labour legislation that could potentially help ensure that the interests of freelancers and the self-employed are protected. NTUC is currently focusing on three ways to help protect the interests of freelancers:
- Expanding the role of Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM). Freelancers will have access to tripartite networks to resolve disputes.
- Urging the Governments to review how freelancers can currently make CPF contributions and also receive support from the Government in terms of CPF retirement adequacy.
- Urging service buyers to keep manpower costs at advisable rates enabling freelancers access to CPF contributions.
Last year, NTUC’s Freelancers and Self-Employed Unit (U FSE) in collaboration with e2i held a ‘Fair For Freelancers’. Freelancers were given the opportunity to come together and gain new business opportunities. U FSE introduced digital platforms to help connect freelancers with clients for project collaborations.
The Labour Movement continually works closely with the other Tripartite partners – Ministry of Manpower and employers, to create a better working environment for employees. Through Collective Bargaining, Dispute Resolution mechanism and Advocacy, NTUC is giving a voice to the working people of Singapore.
https://www.facebook.com/anghinkee/photos/a.152579238126400.53313.149772861740371/1459249270792717/?type=3&theater
For more information on how the Labour Movement is speaking up for various worker segments, check out Labour Movement’s Budget 2017 Recommendations.
Also Read: True Heroes – 4 Invisible Jobs Singaporeans Take For Granted
13 Cool Activities You Should Know About To Wrap Up Your February [16-28 Feb]
February has been such a busy month! There was Chinese New Year and the endless Yu Sheng dinners, Valentine’s Day… and now, here are 13 cool activities you should know about from 15 to 28 February. They’ll chase away your post-festive blues!
Play & Discover
1. Urban Ventures x House Of Noise
Our favourite street party is back! And this time round, it’s all about #supportlocalSG.
For their very first road transformation of the year, Urban Ventures partners up with Noise Singapore to transform good old Keong Saik into a one-night only, feet tapping , head banging music party!
[caption id="attachment_22433" align="alignnone" width="960"]
Image source: Lopelab[/caption]
Featuring 21 fantastic local musicians and acts from Noise Music Mentorship 2016 (programmed by Thunder Rock School), your ears are in for a real treat!
On top of that, you can party your night away with DJs Brendon P, Oliver Osborne and Sivanesh, with free manicure and face painting sessions, thanks to Vaniday.
Urban Ventures x House of Noise
Date: 18 February 2017
Time: 3:30pm – 10:30pm
Venue: Keong Saik Road
Admission: Free
Facebook page: Urban Ventures x House of Noise
2. Choking Hazard : An Exhibition About Toys (Launch Party)
No one is ever too old or too young for… toys!
Unlike any other toy exhibition, Choking Hazard is…visually different. The toys here look a little odd and you probably won’t be able to find them elsewhere.
[caption id="attachment_22569" align="alignnone" width="784"]
Image source: kult[/caption]
This is because the artists involved in this show have dismantled existing toys sourced from toy markets and remixed them into new objects.
While you’re at it, you can also try making your own toys. An assembly line of pre-loved toys will be available for you to tear apart and rebuild. Whether you’d like to make Chucky, or your own little Frankenstein, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!
Choking Hazard: An Exhibition About Toys
Date: 17 February (Exhibition from 17 February – 18 March)
Launch Party Time: 7:00-11:00pm
Exhibition Time: Mon-Fri (11:00am-7:00pm), Sat (2:00pm-7:00pm)
Venue: kult, C2-5, 11 Upper Wilkie Road, Singapore 228120
Admission: Free
Facebook Page: Choking Hazard
3. Talk Cock Comedy feat. The Latecomers (Improv)
Need some laughter to get through the week? Just sit back, relax, and let The Latecomers entertain you.
They may be late to the game but the Latecomers sure are on time with punchlines.
[caption id="attachment_22568" align="alignnone" width="960"]
Image source: The Latecomers[/caption]
Date: 16 February 2017
Time: 8:30 – 10:30pm
Venue: Blu Jaz Cafe, 11 bali lane, Singapore 189848
Admission: $15 via Improv wit The Latecomers
4. Say It With Love
Say It With Love
Date: 24 & 25 February, 2017
Time: 6:30-10:30pm
Venue: Meadow, Gardens by the Bay 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
Admission: Free
Picnic Bag: $60 (Online pre-sale), $65 (On-site)
Facebook Page: Say It With Love 2017
5. Red Dot Cinema ~ Asian Short Film Screening
Need new inspiration? How about rediscovering Asian narratives that have shaped our values and culture?
[caption id="attachment_22653" align="alignnone" width="908"]
Image source: Red Dot Cinema[/caption]
There are many independent film festivals in the world, but not many focus on Asian films. Fortunately there’s Red Dot Cinema – they amplify the Asian voice, one screening at a time.
Founded in 2015, Red Dot Cinema curates inspiring Asian short films and organises screenings around the world. They aim to bring Asia’s culture, social issues and entertainment to the global audience.
In this second edition, they’ll be screening 7 shorts from 5 different countries including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and our very own award winning “Hentak Kaki” by James Khoo.
Red Dot Cinema~ Asian Short Film Screening
Date: 24 February, 2017
Time: 7:00-9:00pm
Venue: JustCo 6 Raffles Quay #16-01 Singapore 048580
Admission: $15 (Early bird), $18 (All tickets are inclusive of a popcorn)
Ticketing Website: Red Dot Cinema
6. Holi 2017
The official Holi festival only takes place in March but in Singapore, we’re celebrating it a little earlier this year!
[caption id="attachment_22682" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Image source: Holi 2017[/caption]
Singapore’s biggest Holi Festival will be organised at Wavehouse Sentosa and it’s gonna be an experience like no other.
A line up of DJs, including the all time Holi favourite DJ Milan, will keep the festival rolling while water jets, rain dances and live performances will keep you entertained and Instagram-busy.
If you’re concerned about the coloured powder used at the festival, fret not as the organisers had it lab tested and it’s certified to be safe.
Holi 2017
Date: 25 February, 2017
Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Venue: Wavehouse Sentosa
Admission: $20.00 via Eventbrite
Facebook Page: Singapore’s Biggest Holi Returns
7. PRISM
In the spirit of #supportlocalSG, here’s another local production to check out!
[caption id="attachment_22881" align="alignnone" width="542"]
Image source: PRISM[/caption]
8. Crossings
Remember Britney Spear’s ‘Crossroads’? Here’s one that is more relevant, realistic and…updated.
The new young & W!LD cohort will be staging their very first public performance- Crossings, at Centre 42’s Black Box!
Bold, dark and funny, Crossings follow characters who have arrived at a critical crossroads in their lives. (Not your daily what to wear, what to eat kinda decisions).
The choices they make will change their journeys forever – its either a road to self-discovery or self-destruction.
If you need a fresh perspective about how the decisions we make will change our lives, Crossings will only be staged for 7 performances and 4 shows are SOLD OUT already! Grab your tickets now before its too late!
Crossings
Date: 15 – 19 February, 2017
Time: 3pm (18 & 19 February), 8pm (15-19 February)
Venue: Black Box, Centre 42, 42 Waterloo St, Singapore 187951
Admission: $30.00 via
Also, read CROSSINGS – A Play Dark And Bold Enough For A Different Kind Of Valentine’s Day
Eat
9. An Afternoon of Art + Food with Mamakan
Have a thing or two for heritage food? This is a culinary journey that you won’t wanna miss!
Featuring an 8-course taster menu, the Mamakan Art Collective will inspire you to get creatively in touch with nature. You’ll taste your way through botanical treasures available locally in Singapore.
They will also be serving cocktails ranging from Bathing Princess on the Hill, a purple liqueur made from Fort Canning flowers, to SpiceBomb of Diversity, an infusion of native spices.
If you’re hesitating because you overate during Chinese New Year, all taster items served are vegetarian, gluten-free and free of pesticides. It’s guilt free and delish at the same time.
An Afternoon of Art + Food with Mamakan
Date: 18 February, 2017
Time: 3-5:00pm
Venue: Singapore Art Museum, 71 Bras Basah Rd
Admission: $49.00 (Individual), $490.00 (Table of 10) via
10. Oh Crab, it’s a Party!
Oh crap! How could anyone ever say no to crabs?
[caption id="attachment_22683" align="alignnone" width="784"]
Image source: Dapur Melaka Singapore[/caption]
Crab lovers, raise your claws! A crab party is happening this February and everyone is invited!
All crabs are handpicked from Dapur Melaka’s very own crab farm and go at $18 each. Freshness of every crab is guaranteed or you get your money back.
It’s based on a first come first served basis so do make your reservations to avoid disappointment!
Dapur’s Crab Party
Date: 16 & 17 February, 2017
Time: 5:30pm onwards (last order at 8:30pm)
Venue: Dapur Melaka Singapore 56 Sembawang Road, Singapore 779086
Contact number: +65 6455 0857
Admission: $18 via Oh crab, it’s a party
Shop
11. Majestic Market
You’ve probably done a whole lot of shopping for Chinese New Year and Valentine’s. One more pop-up market doesn’t harm right?
[caption id="attachment_22654" align="alignnone" width="957"]
Image source: Majestic Market[/caption]
In conjunction with their 10th anniversary celebration, New Majestic Hotel will be hosting a collaborative 3-day pop up weekend bazaar!
Set in a 1928 shophouse, the market aims to celebrate and revive Bukit Pasoh’s heritage by showcasing local design, culture and its rich colourful history.
The hotel rooms will also be transformed into carefully curated retail spaces for vendors to display their products.
Heritage and shopping? That sure sounds like a pretty refreshing retail experience.
Majestic Market
Date: 16-19 February, 2017
Time: 6:00pm
Venue: New Majestic Hotel 31 – 37 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089845
Admission: Free
Facebook Page: Majestic Market
12. Wanderlust Market
You probably have a million reasons to save your angpao money but here’s one good one for you to spend ’em!
[caption id="attachment_22685" align="alignnone" width="851"]
Image source: Fleawhere[/caption]
Don’t worry about coming back from Travel Revolution empty handed because this year, the organiser actually included Wanderlust Market, a curated artisanal market by Makers Market at the event venue.
There will be a variety of products ranging from artisanal creations to mouth-watering food, children products and many more adorable items that will make you go “take my money!”.
Wanderlust Market
Date: 24-26 February, 2017
Time: 11:00am to 9:30pm
Venue: Marina Bay Sands L1 Expo Halls A & B 10 Bayfront Avenue, 018956
Facebook Page: Wanderlust Market
13. EMU Australia Pop-up
Fans of Aussie fashion and shoes, EMU from the land down under is finally on our Singaporean shores!
[caption id="attachment_22686" align="alignnone" width="851"]
Image source: EMU Australia Singapore[/caption]
Pronounced as eem-you, EMU is a premium lifestyle brand best known for their super comfy yet stylish footwear and accessories for women and children alike.
This 3-weeks special pop-up event will showcase the brand’s Spring Summer 2017 collection. There are strong bursts of colours, exotic prints, metallics designs with sports-inspired elements.
The collection, ranging from heels, sandals, summer wedges, slip-ons to covered shoes, is functional yet chic.
Women’s shoes start from $79, while children’s sneakers start from $59.
EMU Australia Pop Up
Date: February 10, 2017 onwards
Time: 10:30am – 10:00pm daily
Venue: Robinsons The Heeren, Robinsons Raffles City, Metro Paragon
Facebook Page: EMU Australia Singapore
With 13 funtastic activities to explore, it seems like life is not slowing down at all this February! And there goes our ‘hard earned’ angpao money!
Also, read Bon Appétit! 6 Legit French restaurants In Singapore That Won’t Burn A Big Hole In Your Wallet
A #TBT To How S’pore Looked Like 20 Years Ago – We Felt A Wave Of Nostalgia Looking At #2!
10 years ago, it was the year 2007. And the 90’s were 20 whole years ago. Does anyone else feel old?
From the 1990s to the current day, Singapore has gone through a tremendous change. Take a trip down memory lane with us through these 20 pictures of 1990s Singapore. You’ll be surprised at how different Singapore is now compared to your childhood days.
1. Capitol Theatre
Then
[caption id="attachment_22754" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Photo Credits: remembersingapore.org[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22770" align="alignnone" width="740"]
Photo Credits: www.yoursingapore.com[/caption]
This 87-year-old landmark was first built in 1930, and could seat more than 1600 people in the auditorium.
By 1998, it screened its last movie and closed down, unable to compete with newer, more technologically advanced cinemas around Singapore. After 9 years, it was reopened again on May 19 2015. Now, there are movies as well as in-house theatre and dance productions featuring local and Asian repertoire.
2. Marina Bay Sands
[caption id="attachment_22766" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: www.marinabaysands.com[/caption]
The area where Marina Bay Sands now stands was initially just a huge reclaimed land.
With plans that have been in the works since 1983, the entire Marina Bay Sands project took 34 years to become the impressive integrated resort we know today.
With the completion of the Sands Theatre and Grand Theatre, we are now treated to globally renowned acts like The Lion King and Wicked. Coupled with the ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands has become THE place to be for everything cool, from arts and culture to shopping and eating!
3. National Library at Stamford Road
Then
[caption id="attachment_22081" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: Ng Cheng Kiang[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22082" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: Ng Cheng Kiang[/caption]
The original National Library of Singapore at Stamford Road was first completed in 1960, and for many of us, the place where our love for reading began.
On 31 March 2004, our collective hearts broke as the doors of the library closed for the last time. While we may miss the old library, the new national library is a sight to behold. Home to the Black Box, an outdoor garden and 7 full floors dedicated to the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library, the new National Library at Bras Basah helps to keeps our love for reading alive.
4. Bugis Street
Then
[caption id="attachment_22089" align="alignnone" width="768"]
Photo Credits: www.nas.gov.sg[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22088" align="alignnone" width="800"]
Photo Credits: www.singapore-guide.com[/caption]
Our very own Singapore-style version Taiwan Night Market, Bugis Street was where we flocked to for cheap clothes and apparels after school.
With our miniscule pocket money, Bugis Street was a godsend for the blossoming shopaholics in us. Cleaner, more fashionable and slightly pricier, new Bugis Street now hosts even more shops, some are even air-conditioned!
5. Playgrounds
Then
[caption id="attachment_22755" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: dannylovetosnap.blogspot.sg Address: 28 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310028[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22138" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits:
[caption id="attachment_22139" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits:
Back in the 90’s, going to the playground meant playing with kids from the neighbourhood, porcelain tiled dragon architecture, as well as bloody knees if we had the misfortune of falling in the sand.
These days, playgrounds are more avant-garde in design, with safe rubber-foam flooring. There is also a growing trend in inclusiveness, starting with playgrounds for children with special needs and special wheelchair swings.
6. Buses
Then
[caption id="attachment_22772" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Photo Credits: remembersingapore.org[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22838" align="aligncenter" width="2304"]
Credit: smrt.com.sg[/caption]
Decked in the iconic red and white colours of our nation, the buses of the past were stuffy, non-air conditioned, and dispensed paper tickets when you boarded the bus.
20 years down the road, we now see buses in different colours. Not just that, they’re also air-conditioned, wheelchair accessible and bus fares are now payable with cards.
7. National Stadium
Then
[caption id="attachment_22768" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: Yu Khing Poh[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22769" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: senatus.net[/caption]
The old Kallang Stadium was THE place to be for every primary 5 child a few days before National Day. Wearing red or white t-shirts to school, we were proud to wave our miniature national flags (all while digging through the goody bags for the yearly signature gifts).
On 30 June 2014, Singapore welcomed the new and improved National Stadium. An all-weather sports and events venue, it has a retractable roof that keeps out the rain and doubles as a huge projector screen. It even has a state-of-the-art cooling system, allowing for cool air at 23 degrees to be pumped out from beneath the seats. Partially powered by solar panels, the cool air is even environmentally friendly!
Having played host to singers like Stefanie Sun and Jay Chou, as well as the 28th SEA Games in 2015, the National Stadium provides a comfortable, yet magnificent stage for arts, culture and sports alike.
8. Sentosa
Then
[caption id="attachment_22786" align="alignnone" width="800"]
Photo Credits: worldstotrek.wordpress.com[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22787" align="alignnone" width="970"]
Photo Credits:Rwsentosa.com[/caption]
Do you remember having to take a ferry to Sentosa island? Back then, we were easily excited by the wax museum depicting Singapore’s past, as well as climbing up the huge Merlion statue.
Fast-forward 20 years and Sentosa island is now home to a huge amusement-resort. You’ll be surprised to know that this island is no longer just for the beach lovers and thrill seekers.
Theatre geeks and concertgoers can enjoy amazing performances like Yellowcard – The Final World Tour at Resorts World Theatre, and the daily Monster Rock show at Pantages Hollywood Theatre at Universal Studios Singapore.
9. MRT
Then
[caption id="attachment_22148" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: Calvin Teo[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22149" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: www.lta.gov.sg[/caption]
Back then, there were only 2 lines: Red and Green. More accurately, the North-South line and the East-West line. After that, you had to take a bus to get to your specific destination.
These days, there are 5 MRT lines with 2 more on the way, and 3 LRT lines. In the past, we didn’t need to refer to the System map when travelling somewhere new. Now, I find myself googling ‘MRT map’ very often.
10. Hard Rock Cafe
Then
[caption id="attachment_22152" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits:
Now
[caption id="attachment_22760" align="alignnone" width="644"]
Photo Credits: ordinarypatrons.com[/caption]
The ever-famous Cadillac was taken down on May 16 2016 in preparation for a makeover of the Hard Rock Cafe. The 1961 Cadillac Series 62 Deville represented the Rock and Roll times that Hard Rock Cafe stood for.
Fortunately, Hard Rock Cafe is still rocking even without its signature Cadillac. With Kumar taking the stage alongside live music performances and open mic shows, Hard Rock Cafe keeps our love for music and comedy alive.
11. King Albert Park
Then
[caption id="attachment_22763" align="alignnone" width="800"]
Photo Credits:
Now
Students of Bukit Timah, namely MGS, ACS, Nanyang Girls’, NJC and many others will always have fond memories of King Albert Park (affectionately known as KAP). Many after school hours were spent studying in McDonald’s, shopping at Cold Storage, and eating ice cream at Island Creamery.
Closed on 16 March 2014 for its transformation into a condominium, this is yet another childhood memory that we say goodbye to in our ever-developing Singapore.
12. Big Splash Complex at East Coast Park
[caption id="attachment_22788" align="alignnone" width="645"]
Photo Credits: Akitek Tenggara Collection, courtesy of National Archives of Singapore[/caption]
Before Wild Wild Wet or Adventure Cove, there was the Big Splash! Slides which were more than 6 storeys high. They were supposedly the tallest slides in the world back in 1977.
After 40 years of bringing water-related thrills to Singaporeans, the water park closed on 21 October 2016, and the land was returned to the government for redevelopment.
13. Marine Aquarium at Wisma Atria
A cheap alternative to Underwater world was to take a trip to Wisma Atria and stare at the fishes in the Marine Aquarium. Filled with exotic seawater fishes, corals and even tiny sharks, we would chase the swimming fishes round and round the 1.5m tall tank.
Sadly, good things don’t last forever. The Marine Aquarium was taken down in 2008 and the aquatic creatures were transferred to their new home at Underwater World Singapore.
14. Tang Dynasty Village
Then
[caption id="attachment_22790" align="alignnone" width="800"]
Photo Credits:
Now
[caption id="attachment_22756" align="alignnone" width="600"]
Photo Credits: Lam Chun See[/caption]
Opened in 1992, Tang Dynasty Village was a literal blast to the past where visitors could visit a replica of the Tang Dynasty Capital in Singapore.
Featuring an army of terracotta warriors, a courthouse, geisha house, camel rides and a wax museum among other displays, this attraction was totally cool but did not come cheap. Back then, $30 entrance fees were not affordable for some families.
Coupled with the 90’s Asian Economic Crisis, it closed down in 1999, after a short 7-year run.
15. Escape Theme Park
Then
[caption id="attachment_22791" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: Walter Wu[/caption]
Now
Escape Theme Park made way for an expansion of Wild Wild Wet
Who can forget travelling all the way to Pasir Ris to race in go-carts, splash down the Wet & Wild log-ride and be tossed about the insanely fast Panasonic/Alpha 8.
On November 26, 2011, we said goodbye to Escape Theme Park as plans for the Downtown East revamp began. Wild Wild Wet was opened next door shortly after the closure, but it just wasn’t the same.
16. Queenstown Cinema
[caption id="attachment_22793" align="alignnone" width="800"]
Photo Credits: Skyscrapercity[/caption]
A cinema right beside a bowling alley, not to mention a KTV outlet, this was the best after school/work hang out for Queenstown residents.
I remember coming here after dinner with my cousins to bowl, even though we mostly watched the balls enter the gutters. Closed in 1999 and demolished in 2011, the rubble may be gone but the memories remain.
17. Istana Kampong Gelam (now Malay Heritage Centre)
[caption id="attachment_22765" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Photo Credits: www.ghettosingapore.com[/caption]
The Istana Kampong Gelam used to be the palace of Sultan Hussein Shah of Johor in 1819, where it went on to house generations of Sultan Hussein’s successors.
In 1999, after the Sultan Hussein Ordinance was enacted and revised for the last time, residents living in the Istana were resettled. In time, the building was restored and transformed into the Malay Heritage Centre in 2004.
With 6 permanent galleries showcasing stories and artefacts that tell of Kampong Gelam’s historical significance, as well as new monthly exhibits, visitors are given a precious insight into our country’s culture and history.
18. HMV at Heeren
Then
[caption id="attachment_22794" align="alignnone" width="640"]
Photo Credits: Rob Young[/caption]
Now
[caption id="attachment_22840" align="aligncenter" width="1800"]
Credit: theoutpost.biz[/caption]
Home to the first and last HMV store in Singapore, teens would flock here to listen to the latest album releases for free.
Opened in 1997, the 25,000-sqf store saw 8 years of music lovers pass through its 3 levels before closing officially on 30 September 2015.
19. Underwater World Singapore
The fishes from Wisma Atria’s Marine Aquarium found their way here and lived happily until 26 June 2016 when Underwater World Singapore closed down.
While the ‘bigger and better’ version, namely S.E.A Aquarium, held a whopping 100,000 plus marine animals of over 800 species, Underwater World’s 2,500 plus marine animals of 250 species was more than enough for our childhood.
20. A&W
[caption id="attachment_22798" align="alignnone" width="700"]
Photo Credits:
These days, ask most teens if they know A&W and they’ll answer that it’s a carbonated root beer beverage. Back in the 90’s, it was a fast food restaurant on a boat! Stationed on the Stewards Riverboat at the Sentosa Coastline, it was the only fast food franchise that felt classy as you chow down on burgers, fries and an A&W Root Beer Float.
Singapore’s Transformation
These 20 pictures show us the immense change that Singapore has undergone since the 90’s, and with the ever-increasing development of our country, who knows whether our favourite places will stick around in 2037?
Make as many memories as possible by visiting and attending events, attractions, and activities in Singapore. So start visiting and get your cameras clicking away, before time takes away more of our monumental places in Singapore.
(Header image credit: With Over 1,000 Stalls, This Year’s Geylang Bazaar Will Keep You Coming Back For More
