Audience: Family

A Peek At NDP 2016 – Fireworks Both Indoors AND Outdoors!

If we could describe NDP 2016 (National Day Parade 2016) in one word, it would be ‘spectacular’.

With a catchy theme, ‘Building Our Singapore Of Tomorrow‘, and set against the refreshing backdrop of Singapore Indoor Stadium, here are the reasons NDP 2016 will be the best one yet!

NDP 2016 – The First NDP at Indoor Stadium

Singapore will celebrate her birthday in the newly-renovated Singapore Indoor Stadium for the first time. That’s right! Fret not about the hot sun and enjoy the show indoors while staying cool! In addition, the venue boasts a huge seating capacity of up to 12,000. You can also look forward to conveniently located restrooms.

Jaw-dropping Light Shows

Next up, the dazzling light shows are undoubtedly the most impressive part of NDP 2016 itself. Be awed by the ingenious use of light effects throughout the parade. Keep a lookout for Act 3 and 4 when the stadium lights go off.

In fact, every spectator can be part of the performance simply by wearing the LED wristbands distributed in goodie bags! The LED wristbands pulsate with colours. It even syncs with the parade’s live music, light shows and body movements. Just imagine the stadium as the night sky, and your wristbands form part of the galaxy of twinkling stars!

Our Prime Minister has remarked that “Singapore is like a unicorn. One of a kind, a special animal, no other in the world. It works well, (and) has unique solutions.” Indeed, NDP 2016 even stars a sparkling unicorn dancing gracefully above the audience.

Watch in awe as dancers and aerialists clad in kaleidoscopic LED costumes execute a perfectly synchronised performance. Our favourite segment was Act 5, where Singapore’s future cityscape took shape right before our eyes, made possible by 3D projections!

Drawing Inspiration from the Past

NDP 2016 features the lesser-known story of Badang. In the act ‘Bandang and The Singapore Stone‘, impressive boulders are hurled across the stage together with artistic depictions of a tribe war.

Notably, Badang represents the strength and resilience of our nation in the face of hardships. The story is set in ancient times. Incorporating the Singapore Stone into a thrilling adventure, the story tells of true bravery in times of adversity.

In a truly engaging way, Singaporeans can learn more about this national treasure!

We’re All in This Together

Do you know that this year’s parade features a performance put together by the special needs community? In the act “What A Wonderful World”, a beautiful mass display formation is inspired by creative paintings drawn by the special needs community.

You’ll even see members of the disabled society joining in the iridescent show on stage! Also, the audience will have a chance to sign together to songs like “Count On Me Singapore” and everyone’s favourite “Home”. This is to raise awareness for the deaf community.

We found it especially heartwarming to see the entire audience singing together with the performers on stage at NDP 2016. The effortless blend of engagement and emphasis on Singapore as an inclusive society will certainly impress audiences of all ages!

To Top It All Off: Fireworks

Finally, as Singaporeans, one of our favourite parts of the national parade has to be the dazzling fireworks to end the night. Though the indoor stadium maintains a partially-closed roof during the spectacle, audience members can still catch a glimpse of the ‘night-time flowers’ comfortably from their seats.

In addition, NDP 2016 features indoor fireworks as well. We say yes to the best of both worlds: indoor AND outdoor fireworks!

NDP 2016 – The Final Verdict

NDP 2016  is similar, yet extremely different from all the previous parades we’ve ever witnessed. That is, different in the best way possible. We feel that the parade does an excellent job of fostering Singaporean pride and creatively showcasing the bright future of our ever-developing country.

Therefore, you’ll be in for a treat at NDP 2016 for sure, and don’t forget to bring those cameras to capture the spectacular parade!

Also, read Comfort Food Always Wins! 7 Local Desserts That Steal Our Hearts

Songkran In Singapore – Get Soaked At USS Soak Out Water Party!

With daily maximum temperatures expected to reach a high of 35°C  in the first week of July, the weather in Singapore has been terribly unbearable. Dry and warm days are coming, but we have the perfect solution for you. This coming month, bask in the sun and beat the heat at USS Soak Out Water Party! You’ll get to join in the festive parade, groove to catchy music, and engage in water play fun!

The Splashing Festive Parade – USS Soak Out Water Party

All park guests get to join in the fun! With two mini parades converging at the park’s Lagoon Stage for 30mins, no one in the USS Soak Out Water Party zone will be spared the splashes.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you. Be armed with your water guns purchased from the carts around the water fight area. Expect a whole lot of water cannon blasts and possibly buckets of water poured on you!

When your water supply runs low, just head to one of the refilling spots to fill up those water guns!

Don’t Worry, There Are Safe Zones

If you’re not in for the wet party, you can still check out the festivities without getting yourself wet. Avoid the Lagoon Stage from 3pm to 3.30pm and use this opportunity to hop onto your favourite rides.

Alternatively, look out for the wet-dry boundary to stay out of the water blasts.

Dance Away With DJs And Local Bands

As you engage in some water play fun, groove to catchy music by entertainers, DJs and local bands. Don’t miss the Soak Out After Party as well!

DJ Inquisitive will be on the mixer. The local pop band The Good Karma will be playing some ‘90s music on Friday and Saturday nights.

Extended Hours At Soak Out After Party

After the sun sets, park guests can continue to chill out in an evening after-party. It begins in front of the New York Public Library. Happening from 6pm to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays nights (except on 23 July), the facade will be transformed into eye-popping projection with mapping displays.

Live entertainment will be available exclusively after dark. Expect only the best beats and top hits!

Guests without the all day pass who wish to just attend this event are able to do so. Just purchase the after 5pm passes at $55.

It’s Family Friendly – Get Up Close And Personal With Your Favourite Characters

Festive parades run through selected zones in the park which begin at 3pm (or 5.30pm on days when Hollywood Dreams Parade is on). Get up close and personal with 50 over characters including the Minions and Sesame Street friends at the Lagoon Stage in Hollywood zone.

Some Tips For You – USS Soak Out Water Party

1. Be sure to check out the show schedules

It is recommended that you plan your itinerary around the Waterworld show timings. For weekend visitors, plan around the magical Hollywood Dreams Parade and the incredible fireworks of the Lake Hollywood Spectacular. Do note that from now till 1o August, at 3pm (or 5.30pm on Saturdays), two floats set sail from Far Far Away or Sci-Fri City. Join in the water party at Lagoon Stage or reserve your spot in front of the Lagoon Stage at 3pm for some good procession photos.

2. Your park tickets for USS Soak Out Water Party are valid the entire day

Park guest are able to leave and return USS for the entire day. Just remember to get a hand stamp at the exit and you’re all good to go!

3. Express passes save a whole lot of time

If you wish to skip the lines at all your favourite rides and attractions, add a Universal Express or Universal Express Unlimited to your Day Pass. With the pass, you’ll have access to a separate queue with a shorter wait time!

4. Remember to waterproof your phones and bring an extra set of clothes

If you’re planning to join in the water party, bring waterproof covers or ziplock bags to protect your phone. Also, bring an extra set of clothing so you can change out after being soaked at the USS Soak Out Water Party. Store your clean clothes and valuables in the lockers.

5. Lastly, leave your water guns at home

For safety reasons, only two types of water guns are allowed. These can be purchased from the carts around the water fight area. Do note that guests can only use water guns sold at Universal Studios Singapore

USS Soak Out Water Party Details

The party wraps up with a countdown and blasts from water cannons, alongside high-flying aerialists. If this is your kind of fun, call your friends and family, and purchase your tickets here.

USS Soak Out Water Party
When: Daily 3pm (or 5.30pm on days when Hollywood Dreams Parade is on –Resort World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
Event phone: 6577 8888
Price: Adult $74, Child (Ages 4 to 12) $56, Senior (Ages 60 and above) $36

Also, read Summer Sonic Festival – Party Like There’s No Tmr In Japan!

Hi-tech Bowling Alley Strikes Punggol: Put Them Bowling Shoes On!

Calling all bowlers! Whether you’re a sure-strike pro at bowling or a gutter feeder newbie, you’ll definitely have a strikin’ good time at this newly opened hi-tech bowling alley.

Remember how bowling used to be for teenagers and kids? Well, the new alley lanes provided by Punggol SAFRA now makes bowling a more family friendly affair. With more 5-pound bowling balls and automatic lane bumpers, kids will be sure to enjoy the game too!

Orchid Bowl @ Punggol SAFRA

Orchid Bowl has recently launched a new bowling alley in SAFRA Punggol. It has since attracted large crowds but

What makes this bowling alley stand out from the rest?

For starters, all 24 lanes are equipped with highly interactive smart screens. These provide bowlers with new bowling fun. The screens contain more than 1000 different types of animations and themes for players to choose from.

Some features, such as MadGames, allow bowlers to compete against their teammates in different skill-based challenges. These games are the first of its kind in Singapore and are only available at this alley. The games also contain the Score Assist feature, which gives beginner bowlers an advantage over seasoned players. With slight advantage given to beginners, complacency is something experienced bowlers will no longer risk being.

Other cool features such as YouToons allows bowlers to snap pictures and create avatars of themselves. Fans of Mario Kart will find this feature slightly familiar.

If you haven’t tried cosmic bowling (aka bowling with glow-in-the-dark pins and balls) you can now do so at this bowling alley. Orchid Bowl @ Punggol SAFRA is set to operate its Cosmic Bowling nights every Friday and Saturday, starting from 1st July.

Price

The rates at this new bowling alley are charged per hour. Experienced bowlers can now play to their hearts content as there’re no restrictions on the number of games played within the hour. How awesome is that?

With so many cool and family friendly features, you won’t have to worry about the little ones getting bored or that they’ll get upset when they lose because with the new features and added support, who knows if your kids may even beat you at your own game!

Orchid Bowl @ SAFRA Punggol
Address: 9 Sentul Crescent #05-03, S828654
Opening Hours: Sun-Thurs 10am-1am, Fri & Sat 10am-3am

(Header Image Credits: twincityfamilyfuncenter.com, words by editor)

Also, read 13 Best Things To Do In Punggol That Show Punggol Is Not Boring At All!

Mumsy Or Wifey? 25 Things All Married People Know To Be True

The vows have been written and wedding gown returned. Everything returns to normalcy and you’re starting to get a little worried about what’s going to happen after the honeymoon ends. How much will a couple change after tying the knot? Or will there be any changes at all?

We may be no marriage experts, but some of us have been dating for so long we’re basically married, so that counts for something, right? Whether you’re newly weds or couples in a long relationship, below are 25 behaviours you’re likely to be more than familiar with.

1. Total Lack of Privacy

You guys have actually made a couple of big decisions whilst in the shower and know the passwords to each other’s social media accounts. Privacy? Please.

2. Dealing with Money Woes

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="550"] Source:

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="530"] Source: Now that you’re married, wifey’s gonna show who’s the real boss. Just kidding. Hand over all your finances and you’ll be fine. Trust us.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source: Whether it is leaving dishes in the sink or making savoury French Toast instead of sweet, you’ll learn something new about your partner now that you’re living together. Sometimes you’ll even feel like you’re married to a stranger. This leads us to…

5. Stories About People Murdered By Their Spouses Are Starting To Feel Real

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="480"] Source:

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source: Not only do you accept them, you find their quirkiness adorable. And you love them just a little more for being themselves.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="403"] Source: Pinterest[/caption]

You fear for your entire marriage, especially after your first major argument. “What if he/she decides to get a divorce? What about our future?” Though these thoughts may be normal (and kind of sweet), it’s the making up that is important.

8. … Before Realising How Common Bickering Is

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source: “Honey, I might have bought another bike.” If that fails to set her off, we’re pretty sure she’s got a pair of Louboutin hiding somewhere.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image source: Sure, you may love and respect them (to a certain degree) but sometimes, it’s hard to agree with everything they say or do. To compromise or not to compromise, that is always the question.

11. Mumsy or Wifey?

“If your mum and I fall into the ocean at the same time, who would you rescue first?” Ahh yes, the famous question. Well, we say best to just send them both for swimming lessons. There. Problem solved. But assuming you’re living with the wife and she’s your partner in crime, we’re pretty sure mumsy will understand if you take her stand every now and then.

12. Making A Big Deal of Your First Anniversary

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source:

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="480"] source: Also known as the source of 70% of your arguments, we’re sorry to say that we’ve yet to find a solution for this one. Read our articles for dinner ideas maybe?

14. Slowing Down Your Activities On Social Media

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="408"] Source: Your single friends give up trying to get you out of the house whilst your married friends are busy with their own lives. The photos on Instagram may look great, but hey, snuggling under the blankets with Netflix can be fun too.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source: Sure, you still put in the effort to dress up for special occasions or date nights but on most days, comfort is key. Besides, the wife donning only a sports t-shirt can be sexy too.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="630"] Source: Gym? Ain’t nobody has time pho that! Since you no longer need to impress the wife, working out can be a harder commitment than marriage. On the bright side, 17. Making The Other Happy

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Source: Etsy[/caption]

From romantic dinners to planning a surprise vacation, you’d  still go the extra mile (in your sweat pants) to make your partner smile. Whoever said getting married means slacking off in the relationship has a lot to learn.

18. Netflix and Chill Becomes An Integral Part of the Relationship

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="350"] Source: The default question everyone asks at gatherings and occasions will be “how’s marriage?”.  If you’re lucky, they’ll stop at that question but some won’t stop until you give them some juicy gossip. So let your creativity run or you know, always have a set of standard answers in your pockets.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source: The question almost every couple hates, you’ll answer them with a smile on your face but roll your eyes as soon as their backs are turned

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="350"] Source: You’re both not sure if you’re ready for a baby so maybe a pet first? If you can’t even find the time of day to walk your dog, you may then want to delay parenthood for just a little while longer.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="2714"] Source: Doesn’t really matter if you guys are ready, but parenthood will be something you and your spouse will be talking about. A lot. You’ll find yourselves reading parenting sites and looking at potential baby names instead of catching up on the latest online gossip.

22.  Discovering How Everyone Is A Baby Expert

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="2716"] Source:

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="550"] source: Somedays it gets tough. How could he do that and why she gotta be so rude? Doesn’t she know you’re human too?

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="500"] Source: Yes, married life may not be easy but it’s not never entirely bad! How awesome is it to have someone always there for you, to share your joys and sorrows?

Also read: You’ve Surely Gone Through These 10 Mind-Boggling Thoughts If You Have A Pet

Need A Break? Here’re 9 New & Hip Hotels For Your Next Staycay!

1. The South Beach

If you’re looking for an elaborate stay, the The South Beach
Address: 30 Beach Rd, S189763
Contact:6818 1888
Price: From S$442 per night

2. Hôtel Vagabond

From its massive gold elephant to the shiny bronze rhinoceros at the reception, the quirky Hotel Vagabond
Address: 39 Syed Alwi Rd, S207630
Contact:6291 6677
Price: From S$209 per night

3. The Club Hotel

Head straight to Mr & Mrs Maxwell’s, the bar and lounge at The Club Hotel
Address: 28 Ann Siang Rd, 069708
Contact:6808 2188
Price:From  S$268 per night

4. Hotel Jen Tanglin

Image credit: Hotel Jen Tanglin

Based on the imaginary persona of Jen, a professional hotelier, Hotel Jen Tanglin offers a cosy staycation spot at the end of Orchard’s shopping district. With Tumblr-ish quotes printed on its cushions and a lounge that looks more like a cafe than a hotel, Jen offers a charming and personal touch. This is also seen from its dabao (takeaway) box at the buffet, where you can help yourself to a little extra with the courtesy of Jen. They certainly know how to satisfy the auntie in us.

Hotel Jen Tanglin
Address: 1A Cuscaden Rd, 249716
Contact:6738 2222
Price: From $202 per night

5. Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa

The newly refurbished Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
Address: 2 Bukit Manis Road Sentosa, Singapore 099891
Contact:6708 8310
Price: From S$354 per night

6. Hotel YAN

Image credit: Hotel YAN

This industrial-chic hotel has a chill, cafe-like vibe that hipsters will die for. Built from a former industrial warehouse, Hotel YAN
Address: 162 Tyrwhitt Rd, 207581
Contact:6805 1955
Price: From S$104 per night

7. Park Hotel Alexandra

Want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city? Park Hotel Alexandra
Address: 323 Alexandra Road, 159972
Contact:6828 8888
Price: From S$148 per night

8. ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson

Located at the top level of Macpherson Mall, ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson
Address: 401 Macpherson Road Corner of MacPherson & Aljunied Rd, S368215
Contact: 6622 6000
Price: From S$99 per night

9. Oasia Hotel Downtown

Image credit: Oasia Hotel Downtown

With natural foliage and sleek modern designs, Oasia Hotel Downtown
Address: 100 Peck Seah St, 079333
Phone:6812 6900
Price from S$240 per night

Parisian-inspired stays, tropical retreats and more, there’s definitely no lack of new hotels to book a staycation this year. So if you’re too caught up with work for an overseas trip, a staycation is probably the next best thing for a quick getaway.

(Header image credit: original images (in clockwise direction) by Hotel Jen Tanglin, Sofitel Singapore Resort & Spa, , edited by author.)

Also read: 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam

Escape The Assassination – An Escape Game You Don’t Want To Miss!

Missed the special edition ‘Escape the Assassination Classroom’ Escape Game? Here’s the chance to put your wits to the test as Real Escape Game in Singapore announced that the game will be extended to another two days (June 18, 19) due to overwhelming response!

Produced by SCRAP in Japan, the pioneers of real escape games, the very first escape game of this series was held in Japan from February 2015 – April 2015.  Based on the first season of the anime Assassination Classroom, participants for this Assassination Classroom Real Escape game will be playing as Class 3-E students. They must use their wits and knowledge to solve puzzles and problems, and help Koro-sensei save his students.

Game Story

Ticketing Information

Held at Funan DigitalLife Mall, each escape session is 2 hours long and priced between $23-25 per ticket. If you have 5 other friends who’d like to join, the group entry of 6 participants is priced at $132.

You can buy your tickets on-site BUT do note that if the tickets are sold out on Peatix (link below), it won’t be available on-site as well. So if you didn’t manage to escape on your first attempt, or would like to give this challenge a go, do get your tickets ASAP to guarantee a spot. And we can assure you that they’re selling like hot cakes.

Do note that you might be grouped with other participants on the day depending on your group size. 

Escape The Assassination Classroom
Date & Time:
June 18: 11AM/2PM/5PM/8PM (Duration: 2 hours
Ticket price: $23 (early bird), $25, $132 (group of 6)
Venue: Funan DigitalLife Mall
Address: 109 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179097
Facebook: Real Escape Game in Singapore

Header Image source: YouTube

Also read: 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam

Beerfest Asia 2016 – Bottoms Up To Your Favourite Beers & More!

Nothing can be better than spending your weekend having a good cold beer, chilling out to live music and comedy acts, and playing exciting games! This 16 to 19 June, Beerfest Asia returns for its 8th edition featuring over 500 international brews from more than 35 exhibitors. Drop by Marina Promenade’s waterfront and be ready to taste, sample, and compare craft brews around the world.

Don’t fret if you’re not a beer lover, there’s something for everyone at Beerfest Asia 2016! Read on to know more about the exciting events happening during this four-day booze extravaganza, an event definitely not to be missed!

You’ll get to sample over 500 beers

At Beerfest Asia, visitors can expect the largest selection of over 500 international beers from more than 35 exhibitors. To help you out with the wide array of selections, beer sampling platters are available from $8 per platter. Each platter has six portions (50ml each) of beer. Be ready to pick up a reusable sampling glass from any exhibitors and be on your way to taste as many beers and ciders as you can! This is a good way to find out what you like before chugging down on its bottles. Click  Image credit: Harry’s[/caption]

At Beerfest Asia, you’ll never go hungry. Good food is necessary to pair with those cold beers, ciders and spirits. To feed your hungry pangs, an extensive selection of delicious grub and treats are available from Harry’s, Mr & Mrs Maxwell’s and Tiger’s Milk.

Be spoilt for choice as you chomp on a wide range of snacks from Mr & Mrs Maxwell’s popular wings to Tiger’s Milk Peruvian Para Picars.

Not to be missed tribute acts and local bands

Once you’ve filled up on those good beers, head down to one of the three music stages featuring 30 International tribute acts, local bands and DJs. Sing along to your favourite rock ballads and classic hits at the Rock Marquee while you enjoy internationally acclaimed beers. If you are looking for a more chill out atmosphere, the Blue Marquee is the place for you. Surrounded with craft beers from around the globe, relax as you unwind to the blue vibes. Newest to the festival is the Electronic Marquee with an all-female DJ line up to get you partying and dancing through the night.

With non-stop music at all hours of the festival, you’re guaranteed of good entertainment and vibes! Be sure to drop by all the different marquees to discover different beers. Click

If you’re in for a laugh, make your way to the Comedy Lounge on site. Catch comedy acts Lars Callieous, Wes Zaharuk from Canada, and regional acts as well as our local heroes. The prefect way to destress and enjoy your weekend.

Tickets to Comedy Show are priced at $28 (in the form of Beerfest Currency).

Enjoy a fun time of pub games

Once you’re full, entertained, and satisfied, gather your friends for a fun time of pub games. From a game of Beer Pong to Darts and Pool Ball, fight to fierce competition or simply enjoy a friendly match to begin with. You’ll have a ball of a time!

Kids get their own fair share of fun too

On Sunday, The Comedy Lounge will be turned into a recreational room for 3 to 12 years old kids. An indoor bouncy castle and art & crafts activities will be available. The area will be all supervised by the Beerfest Asia crew. So don’t worry, enjoy a couple of beers while you leave your kids in the good hands of the crew!

Do note that a $10 (in the form of Beerfest Currency) fee is required and the last kid must be picked up by 6pm sharp! Parents are able to enter the Brew Kids Playard for free if they’d like to accompany their children.

Beerfest Asia – Details

There’s no better way to bring on the weekend than having a nice cold pint of beer and some good company. With so many choices of beer to choose from, it can be confusing, but whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or a tippling amateur, Beerfest is definitely the festival you must visit! Soak up the fun and be entertained by live music and comedians, we’re sure you’ll be in for a good time.

For more information, visit their official

Getting there
Via MRT: Alight at Circle Line’s Promenade Station. Exit via A.
By Car: Park at Singapore Flyer’s Car park (Limited lots available). Other car parks to consider are Marina Square, Suntec City and Millenia Walk. 
By Taxi: Drop off at the taxi stand of Singapore Flyer and take a 3 minute walk. 

16 to 19 June (Thu-Sun)
Admission: From $25 for a one-day advance pass to $180 for a one-day VIP Package.
Festival Hours: Thu 6pm-1am, Fri 6pm-2am, Sat 3pm-2am, Sun 2pm-10pm
Location: Marina Promenade