7 Fun & Interesting Runs You Must Join In 2016

The first quarter of 2016 may have passed, but it’s still not too late to finish those New Year resolutions! From themed family-oriented jogs to challenging runs with obstacles, these fun and alternative runs will help get you off your couch. Do look out for Puma’s Night Run and don’t you forget the upcoming 23rd April’s Music Run by AIA & Spotify we mentioned before! Here is our consolidated list of the top 7 fun & interesting runs you must join in 2016!

[caption id="attachment_4534" align="alignnone" width="960"]puma Image credit: Puma[/caption]

1. SNOOPY RUN

Probably the most adorable run of the year! Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy, and the gang are in town for an inaugural run! A giant Snoopy mascot will be featured for the first time in Singapore. Run with your friends, enjoy great photo opportunities and receive a runner pack of unique gifts. Visit Lucy’s iconic lemonade/ advice stand and do not miss the fantastic race prizes.

2. GARANG WARRIOR ULTRA

Run endlessly for 12 hours? To determine your Garang Warrior level, finish off as many 5km loops as possible from 7am to 7pm. This is a true test of strength and endurance on a difficult running terrain.

3. DIAMOND DASH

Run for a chance to win a 1.50 carat diamond! This vertical challenge is a virtual game in reality. Three diamonds are up for grabs and no one is taking it lightly! Celebrate love and take your love to the next level. We won’t be surprised to see many men and couples at this race in the hopes of scoring the diamond ring.

4. SPARTAN RACE [embed]https://youtu.be/mku4sLQvL7w[/embed]

Love to test your strength? Spartan Race is the world’s best obstacle course race, designed to push your limits and challenge your endurance. Racers who complete all 3 Spartan distances (Sprint, Super, and Beast) in one calendar year earn their Trifecta. Races anywhere in the world count towards this international honour.

5. BUBBLE GLOW 5K

Asia’s inaugural 5km fun run is catered to all age groups. With the scenic Gardens by the Bay as the route, participants have the freedom to walk, jog or run while experiencing glowing UV bubbles.

The night does not end when you reach the finishing line. Be wowed with performances by Singapore’s top talents – MI Capella & Drummer DJ Chow as a great music carnival awaits for you. There will also be yummy treats and fringe activities to keep everyone entertained throughout the night!

6. WILD INFLATABLE RUN

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Almost like the Bounce Off Inflatable Run 2016 in early March, Wild Inflatable Run is going to be bigger and wilder! It is a treat for adults to reminisce the good ol’ days in bouncy castles. Subscribe at their site to stay tuned for the latest information.

BounceOFF-Inflatable-Race-Singapore-thumb-960x540 Image Credit: Bounce Off Inflatable Run 2016[/caption]

7. BANANA RELAY

2016 will be the 9th edition of the Banana Relay, an event which aims to promote friendship, teamwork & bonding, regardless of speed, height or gender. Subscribe at their site to stay tuned for latest information.

Bubble Glow 5K, words by editor)

Also read: Get Going! Try Something New This Weekend With These 6 Activities

Crazily Cool Alternative Places To Watch Your Movies At & Impress Your Date!

If you are into the cinephilia culture, Discover SG has sourced some alternative film experiences that are far from the usual blockbusters in iMax screens. From homegrown features to top picks at international film festivals, these one-of-a-kind venues provide new space — to screen (at lower cost) and a great network community between industry’s talents and mainstream audience.

Useful sites like Singapore Film Society and Sinema (free screenings islandwide) will provide information on the latest quality film screenings and events.

MovieMob by Ape

*Selected locations islandwide

Since its launch in 2009 till date, MovieMob has been screening outdoor movies in all locations around Singapore. With makeshift movie theatre popups in open areas islandwide, the turnout at their unique drive-in has been very successful.
If you do not own a car, they will always have a separate picnic area and everyone gets to enjoy thematic food sponsored by the event organisers. It often is a splendid weekend as everyone gets to enjoy the silver screen under a starry sky! Wouldn’t this be a perfect idea for a first date? Follow their social media platforms to suggest your choice of movie to be screened!

The Projector

Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road #05-00 Singapore 199589

Paging all hipsters, this is probably the most retro movie experience that one can encounter in Singapore. Just based its captivating location alone, it is not your average cinema for sure. Rediscover an old cinematic icon, Golden Theatre within Golden Mile Tower, was the biggest cinema back in 1973.

After a successful Indigogo crowdfunding campaign, this independent cinema is now refurbished while still preserving the original’s old-school features. This cinema screens indie films (think Cannes Film Festival) and programme curator Gavin Low has expressed, “I believe The Projector can provide a different perspective, broaden the tastes of audiences here, and help develop a community who can call this cinema home.”

They have just recently turned ONE! For more information on their frequent quirky themed events, do check out their Facebook for updates

also read: Alliance Française Theatre

1 Sarkies Road, Newton, Singapore 258130

This French language and cultural institution aims to be a regional influence in contributing to the cultural scene of Singapore. Opening doors to people from all walks of life, Alliance Française de Singapour provides high quality viewing experience in their 236-seats cinema.
Apart from hosting weekly screening of classic and contemporary French films (with English subtitles), the public also gets to enjoy films of other language in their diversified events like Francophonie Festival. For this year 2016’s special, they have even invited director Yann Samuell for its world premiere Le Fantôme de Canterville (The Canterville Ghost) for a Q&A session with the audience.

National Museum of Singapore 

93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897

If you would like to be educated about cinematic culture, one should not miss the National Museum of Singapore’s monthly World Cinema Series. It is a showcase of artistically restored works of international classic.
Home to a retrospective collection of local films, the Gallery Theatre often host events like Perspectives Film Festival and Singapore International Film Festival. Apart from its underground cinémathèque, the National Museum of Singapore also screens occasionally in their Stamford Garden in a relaxing open-air ambience. One can bring their own picnic mats and even BYOB under the stars!

also read: National Library Board

*Selected locations islandwide

In an attempt to promote community awareness in the local scene, the National Library Board has been screening FREE movies islandwide. Apart from loaning physical books, NLB libraries also lend out movie dvds for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
Aside from family-friendly blockbusters shown at selected branches, be sure to catch a monthly screening of (artsy-fartsy) film on the first Wednesday of the month at Library@Esplanade.

With all these alternative places to watch a movie, why visit the same old boring cinemas? Embark on an adventurous date by visiting these alternative places instead! Let us know how your movie experience went in the comments!

Short 3D2N Getaways From Singapore To Make Full Use Of The Long Good Friday Weekend!

Where did January and February go?

We are almost done with the first quarter of the year 2016. In anticipation of the Good Friday long weekend from 25th to 27th March, Discover SG has curated a few 3D2N holidays for your perusal.

From the travel friendly site Expedia, we have sourced South East Asia destinations with round-trip flight from Singapore + weekend hotel stay for you to chill and explore!

BALI, INDONESIA
(Flight duration: 2h 45m)

Rama Beach Resort and Villas www.ramabeachhotel.com

Be it a romantic escape or a rejuvenating trip with your besties, Rama Beach Resort and Villas is a perfect sanctuary for its tranquil environment and privacy. Decorated in contemporary Balinese décor, you can enjoy its pampering spa and an outdoor pool with its signature waterfall.

If you like a little exploration, its convenient location means that it is within walking distance to the hustle and bustle of Kuta. You may visit the famous Lippo Shopping Mall or Waterbom Amusement Family Park.

Price: From S$412*/ person

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA
(Flight duration: 1h 55m)

Plantation Urban Resort and Spa www.theplantation.asia

Like what its name suggests, this resort is a place of green paradise, right in the heart of bustling city Phnom Penh. Lounging all day by its gorgeous pool in the full-service cabana can easily be your weekend goal! This boutique hotel also has a wide range of services, from spa, restaurant, fitness room to a luxurious rooftop suite (upgrade required).

Located in the most strategic location, Plantation is just a two-minute walk away from all the ‘must see’ landmarks like Independence Monument, Nation Museum, Royal Pagoda and Royal Palace.

Price: From S$445*/ person

HANOI, VIETNAM
(Flight duration: 3h 20m)

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake www.hanoi.intercontinental.com

Looking over the scenic panorama view of the West Lake, a superb stay at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake is guaranteed with first class service. Located away from the city center, the area ‘Old Quarter’ offers a fulfilling experience through a plethora of lakeside activities.

Immerse yourself in local culture, take day trips out to iconic places like 800-year-old Golden Lotus Pagoda, Nha Tho Street, Hom Market and wonders of the 36-street catacomb. There are countless enriching Vietnamese experiences one can encounter in the breathtaking Hanoi.

Price: From S$559*/ person

KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA
(Flight duration: 2h 30m)

Shangri-la’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa www.shangri-la.com/kotakinabalu/rasariaresort

Some Singaporeans may have visited Malaysia more often than our own Sentosa island. Still and all, have you heard about the 5-star paradise of Pantai Dalit Beach on Kota Kinabalu? Enveloped by a placid nature reserve, the Shangri-la’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa echoes magic.

The epitome of splendour, this Malaysian-themed hotel is home to Nature Interpretation Centre; the gateway to Borneo’s wildlife. From jungle walks to nocturnal watching, you can choose to do some horse riding today and deep sea fishing tomorrow. By sunset, be ready to be served by your own private butler in a beachside gazebo with spectacular international cuisine.

Price: From S$660*/ person

Also read: 

KRABI, THAILAND
(Flight duration: 1h 45m)

Pakasai Resort www.pakasai.com

Just a few steps away from Ao Nang, Krabi’s most popular beach, 4-star Pakasai Resort is a haven with its tropical garden setting.With a rooftop freshwater infinity pool overlooking swaying palm trees and coastline, the view from its hill stop location is exquisite. How can any weekend be better than this?

Apart from being close to Krabi’s main shopping and entertainment district, the resort also provides curated tourist packages for experiencing community culture to green exploration. You can even hone or pick up some skills from their Southern Thai cooking class, half day canoe, or learn about the natural wonders of ‘Tha-lane’ grotto.

Price: From S$749* / person

*Prices stated include round-trip flight from Singapore, 2 nights stay, taxes and fees (via Expedia.com) on 1 March, 2016.

With a trip planned out for you, which one will you go for? Get ready to book your tickets, pack your bags, and embark on a rejuvenating weekend getaway!

Also read: 

Only Have 1 Day in Singapore? Here Are Some Must Visit Food Places – For All Budgets!

Everyone loves hosting friends from overseas in Singapore! Watching them marvel at how delicious hawker food is or how clean the streets are stirs up an unmistakable sense of patriotism. However, once in a while we face our worst nightmare – the friend who only has 1 day to spare.

Where should you bring him/her to eat? How much is him/her willing to spend? Worry no more, as we have compiled 4 different eating itineraries for any budget!

Low $ (Average spending per meal – Below SGD $10)

Breakfast at YA KUN; Local – Chinese
Indulge yourself with a treat in the local kopi (coffee) culture within the cozy atmosphere. With more than 50 stores island wide, make sure you lay your hands on its famous kaya butter toast set from SGD$4.90. If you fall in love with its kaya (coconut jam) flavor, you can also bring back these jars of homemade spread. 

Lunch at BOON TONG KEE; Local – Chinese

Known for their silky white sauce chicken rice, this well received chain serves this popular local dish from as low as SGD $5. If you become a fan for its delicious dipping sauce, you can purchase these in house sauces that they have used in their dishes.
www.boontongkee.com.sg

Dinner at SPIZE; Asian Fusion and Mediterranean

Serving both Eastern and Western cuisine food from evenings till wee hours in the morning, this vibrant restaurant chain is the perfect hang out especially for night owls. The must try dishes include assorted pratas, nasi lemak, maggie goreng, roti john and not forgetting milo dinosaur drink!

Mid $$ (Average spending per meal – Below SGD$30)

Breakfast at SONG FA; Chinese – Teochew

With its signature dish Bak Ku Teh “meat bone tea” from SGD $7, Song Fa promises their loyal patrons its tingling peppery aftertaste in their soup, accompanied with succulent and tender pork ribs. If you cannot get off the flavourful broth off your mind, simply bring home a box of 10 sachets of Song Fa spices at SGD$22.

Lunch at THE CURRY HUT; Asian – North Indian

Aimed to attract all the curryholics island wide, The Curry Hut serves sumptuous true Indian Curry dishes as their specialties. Using various unique spices such as cumin, mustard, turmeric, fenugreek and black pepper, every dish is made to perfection. Must try dishes include Purdah Biryani, Dhehati Murg curry, Tandoori kebabs and of course, Mango Lassi drink to finish off the meal.

Dinner at I’M KIM KOREAN BBQ; Korean barbecue

With dinner starting from SGD $22.90, guests can pick from a free-flow selection of cooked Korean dishes, fresh poultry, condiments, drinks and more. Often populated for its attractive price and seasonal Facebook promotions, it will be recommended to book in advance for reservation before you miss its signature volcano chicken and irresistible chicken wings!

High $$$ (Average spending per meal – Below SGD$50)

Breakfast at WILD HONEY; International

Enjoy all day breakfast at anytime of the day at Wild Honey! Be it signature dishes like The English, Tunisian or European, or new modern favourites such as Norwegian or Aussie, you will fill that craving spot for sure. Be sure to make an advanced reservation at this popular joint!

Lunch at COFFEE LOUNGE; Chinese – Taiwanese

Situated within Goodwood Park Hotel, get to enjoy the extensive Taiwan Porridge and local degustation menu. With its lunch bento starting from SGD $21, it also serves a la carte buffet with 31 traditional favors, accompanying piping hot bowls of rice or sweet potato porridge. Be sure to make an advanced reservation.

Dinner at JUMBO SEAFOOD; Local – Chinese

Garnering prestigious culinary and service, JUMBO Seafood captures the diners’ hearts with its fresh seafood cooked to perfection. With its award-winning JUMBO Chili Crab, it also serves black pepper crab, golden salted egg prawns, crispy-fried squids and other innovative seafood cuisine. Reservation required.

Super High $$$$$ (Average spending per meal – Above SGD$50)

Breakfast at YAN TING; Chinese – Cantonese

Located at The St. Regis Singapore, Yan Ting showcases the exquisite yet hearty Cantonese fine dining. Aside from Executive Chef Tony Wun’s signature creations on the a la carte menu, patrons can also enjoy the Weekend Dim Sum Brunch from SGD $53. This style of Cantonese cuisine prepares steamed or fried food that are traditionally served in streamer baskets or small plates. Due to its bite-sized portions, get to try a wide variety! Reservation required.

Lunch at NATIONAL KITCHEN BY VIOLET OON; Asian Fusion

Showcasing Singapore’s culinary treasures and heritage from Nyonya, Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisines, local chef Violet Oon’s latest addition at National Gallery Singapore celebrated the authentic colorful flavours. Treat yourself to a luxurious meal from Tumeric Chicken Rings, fragrant Beef Rendang, Daging Chabek Beef Cheek and top off with a must try Roti Jala with Gula Melaka and Bananas. Reservation required.

Dinner at WILD ROCKET; Asian Fusion

Opened by local Chef Willin Low, he described himself and his food as “Mod Sin” cuisine – Modern Singapore fusion food of local delight and European cuisine. Apart from a la carte menu, four-course meal is also served from SGD $75. Do contact the restaurant to find out the specials created on its omakase tasting menu at the chef counter.

14 Sweetest Humans of Singapore Photos About LOVE That’ll Make You Go Aww…

True love knows no boundaries. In Singapore’s multi-racial society, we grew up learning to love and care for each other regardless of race, language or religion. From our very own Humans of Singapore, we have compiled the loveliest photographs that best captures the spirit of love.

From toddlers, young couple to elderlies’ love, this infectious message of unconditional care and concern should be spread all around. Hopefully these posts will inspire you to remind the people around you how much you love them!

18 Chinese New Year Outfit Ideas From Singapore’s Best Blogshops

It is that time of the year again, where just about every person in Singapore is jostling for new clothes and shoes in the shopping centres. Perhaps you have been traumatised by last year’s crowds, or are simply short of time to do any physical shopping… whatever it is, your wardrobe is still awaiting fresh pieces for the new year!

You right now.

Fear not!
If you are severely lacking time to shop, we selected 18 modern outfit ideas from Singapore’s 18 best blogshops that you can purchase without even stepping out of the house. Huat ah!

Starting from prices as low as SDG $27, these online retailers are currently showcasing the best of their Spring collection. With a variety of designs from the iconic red dress to whimsical geometrical prints, you are bound to find something that you’ll love! 

So what are you waiting for? Pick the piece you fell in love with from the ideas above and get them delivered to your doorstep today!

(And if nothing suits your fancy, simply head over to these blogshops for a million more possibilities!)