Category: Cool Places In Singapore

Engineering Is The Future, And Why Their Workspaces Are Actually Really Appealing To Millennials

Tell someone you work in engineering, and chances are, they think you work with grease and machines parts.

It is not an inaccurate picture, but with the perpetuation of tech-dominance, engineering has evolved into a career of the future.

Looking past the engineering of yesteryear, the engineering profession today touts the use of big data and high-end technology while working in impressive workspaces guaranteed to drop your jaws.

Engineering = Bulletproof Job of the Future?

The world today thrives on innovation. To maintain this inexorable forward thrust, the technology that supports cannot stagnate either. As such, the onus lies on engineers to not fall behind.

This is a harrowing thought indeed.

Micron data analyst Kegan Ang, who works with schematics, statistics and Big Data in the Planning Department (like a Central Command Centre), shared the perks of working for a company that provides extensive support for education.

Micron also partners with the local polytechnics to offer SkillsFuture Earn & Learn programmes for specialist diplomas. There are also in-house training programs that employees can participate in to up-skill themselves.

To job-seeking millennials out there, on-the-job education comes as an attractive incentive. Financial support aside, these perks also create a workspace that nurtures its staff, as opposed to utilising them as human robots to meet ends.

And if we’re talking about bulletproof jobs, working in a sector upon which the future relies (since the Internet of Things cannot work without memory cards, which Micron manufactures) sounds like a pretty stable gig indeed.

With an invite to Micron, I visited Fab 10, one of their 4 semiconductor facilities, to personally take a look at the workspace of a modern day engineer.

Micron Technology, Inc

Micron Technology Inc. is one of the wafer fabrication companies in Singapore which produces a global supply of memory chips (even the ones in your HPB tracker watch).

This U.S. multi-national giant employs approximately 7,500 workers in Singapore, and hires staff from various disciplines within Engineering.

In modern engineering, Kegan says that an engineer’s work is evolving into sophisticated, high tech work. So it’s not just about going out in the hot sun and getting sweaty and dirty.

For example, in Fab 10 clean rooms where memory chips are made, the room has to be free from random particles therefore, you cannot even tear paper in the room.

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

Engineers have to smock-up as the air in the Fab 10 floor is highly controlled for foreign particles.

To automate the transport of silicon wafers used to make memory chips, Front Opening Unified Pods (FOUPs) below are used.

Modern clean rooms are automated, with ceilings lined with tracks upon which the FOUPs travel.

Kegan’s job involves monitoring the progress of the automated processes, which means he not only has to know how the processes work, but also analyses how to improve production time, and troubleshoots where necessary.

A Space To Break The Rules

One aspect of engineering that used to put me off was the image of a ‘checklist’ work style, so imagine my surprise when I learnt about their “TED Talks”.

A platform for engineers to share ideas on how to improve systems, these talks also encourage engineers to trail-blaze new technology. Promising ideas are not swept under the rug and can actually be adapted and realised by the company.

For naysayers who think these conferences are limited to the more senior, scrap that thought. Kegan shared that despite being a new employee, he already had the chance to be on this stage of open-sharing (i.e. the “TED” talks) twice.

Engineering Is Vital To Singapore’s Future

In recent years, Singapore has been championing more opportunities for further education in engineering, such as via the Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ) for various engineering skills and the Electronics and Precision and Machinery Engineering Cluster’s Place-and-Train Programmes.

The Labour Movement has been expanding its U Associate network to include more than 40 professional guilds (termed U Associates) such as the Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES), to develop training and progression opportunities for their professional members, such as the Engineers Progression pathway with a three-tiered scheme below.

But despite the increasing prominence of engineering as a career, I admit to still having harboured a skewed perception of what modern engineering was like, before hearing about modern engineering jobs from Micron and one of its engineers, Kegan Ang.

Trashing stereotypes of unattractive, dead-end work cultures, what I learnt that day truly showed me the future.

The Labour Movement is working closely with tripartite partners (i.e. the government and businesses) to help working people into future jobs, such as those in sunrise industries like engineering. 

Also Read, 5 Harsh Realities Of Working In S’pore You Won’t Want To Hear But Should

DBS Marina Regatta Is Bringing The Beach To The Bay, With lululemon Workouts, Potato Head’s Coconut Bar & More!

If you’ve been spending all your hours cooped up in the office rushing to meet deadline after deadline, we think it’s time to get out and feel the warmth of the sunshine on your face again.

Where, you ask? Look no further than the CBD. This 1-4 June, DBS brings the beach to you.

Back for its sixth edition, the DBS Marina Regatta will see the return of Singapore’s first and only urban pop-up beach at Marina Bay.

Dubbed “Singapore’s Biggest BayFest”, there’s no place like the DBS Marina Regatta this summer.

From lying in a hammock with an ice cold cocktail, to taking lululemon yoga classes against a scenic backdrop, to tackling Singapore’s largest inflatable water obstacle course, the DBS Marina Regatta has something for everyone!

Here are some amazing highlights at the DBS Marina Regatta!

1. Sip On Cocktails at Potato Head’s Coconut Bar

Bali beach lovers will be familiar with Potato Head, an essential stop for anyone heading over for a vacay.

Fret not if you’ve never been there; Potato Head will be bringing its renowned Coconut Bar to the DBS Marina Regatta. Sip on the bar’s fresh coconut cocktails and beers, and be transported to paradise!

Where: Bay Beach – Singapore’s only pop-up urban beach

2. Make A Splash At The Giant Inflatable Water Obstacle Course

Last year, the DBS Marina Regatta brought a five-storey water slide to the Bay. This year, it’s bringing “Battle Bay”, a massive inflatable water obstacle course with nine obstacles spanning 11,000 square feet! Do you and your friends have the mental and physical chops to finish the Battle Bay?

Tackle the course as an individual or a team of four, and stand a chance to win cash prizes if you or your team clock the fastest time. With both bragging rights and $8,000 up for grabs, you’ll want to start training now.

To take part as a team, sign up An illustrated projection of the Marina Bay skyline[/caption]

For a brief respite from the sweltering heat, step into the Bay Dome, one of two majestic domes at the regatta. Standing at 7.5 metres tall, you’ll get to immerse yourself in Singapore’s largest interactive art dome and add your personal touch to an illustrated projection of the iconic Marina Bay skyline.

Create your own unique characters and watch them come to life on the projection. Watch the canvas evolve as characters stream in and create a dynamic and vibrant landscape!

Where: Bay Dome
Price: Free

4. Work out with lululemon

Fitness enthusiasts, this one’s for you. Popular brand lululemon will be collaborating with Yoga+ and WeBarre to bring you a curated line-up of yoga and barre classes at the Bay. Complete all classes and receive a special surprise from lululemon!

Work up a sweat with fellow fitness enthusiasts! Who knows, maybe you’ll make a new friend or two!

Classes are free, so hurry and sign up at 5. Get Ultra-Ready at the DBSMR X ULTRA Countdown Party [caption id="attachment_26062" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Image Credit: Artist’s impression of Marina Regatta 2017[/caption]

With such a fun and exciting array of activities to participate in at the DBS Marina Regatta, there’s no reason to stay indoors this June! So get out there and have some fun!

Follow DBS on Facebook for more updates or visit

Also read Nothing To Do In Tiny S’pore? This Bank Is Making It Its Mission To Bring More Life Here

This Digital Playground Has No Slides Or Swings, But 5 Virtual Worlds To Lose Yourself In

It’s probably safe to say that we’ve come to a point where technology lets us do amazing things we never thought was possible.

MOSH! (Moshi) is definitely proof of that. The first interactive digital family edutainment park in Singapore, it makes use of technology to redefine our idea of play. 

[caption id="attachment_25983" align="aligncenter" width="5120"] Image Credit: This is an almost magical twist on the classic paper planes we all played with as children. 

[caption id="attachment_25978" align="aligncenter" width="1100"] Image Credit: Maybe you’ve been to the S.E.A. Aquarium.

[caption id="attachment_26034" align="aligncenter" width="570"] Image Credit: Ever wanted make your own fireworks display?

[caption id="attachment_25977" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image Credit: Leave the real world behind in this cute land of the MOSH!cots. 

[caption id="attachment_25982" align="aligncenter" width="1100"] Image Credit: You’ll probably be tired after a day of play, so drop by the cafe for a yummy boost!

[caption id="attachment_25979" align="aligncenter" width="2591"] Image Credit: Palawan Kidz City Sentosa, 31 Beach View, #03-01, Singapore 098008
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM, Last Admission: 8 PM
Admission: Child (age 3 – 12 Years): $22, Adult: $28, Senior Citizen (age 55 years and above): $20, Family Bundle (Admits 1 Adult, 1 Child): $48
Contact no.: 6238 8296
Newly Opened LuLu’s Lounge Brings The 60s’ New York Back Alley Club To Singapore’s Nightlife Scene

Newly Opened LuLu’s Lounge Brings The 60s’ New York Back Alley Club To Singapore’s Nightlife Scene

A new night spot has opened up in town and it’s burlesque dancers, inventive cocktails, and old school nostalgia galore!

LuLu’s Lounge is not your average club. A unique nightlife concept, the quirky lounge comprises a dance floor, outdoor terrace and a dynamic entertainment line-up.

You won’t find any 18 year-olds getting wasted here. Lulu’s is firmly pitched at the more refined crowd.

The adult-oriented lounge is made for the mature crowd that wants to party, but in a less intense clubbing environment.

[caption id="attachment_25941" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit:

Be prepared to be taken on a musical journey that starts off with live jazz.

It then progresses to old school, hip-hop funk or dancehall as the night goes on and morning comes.

[caption id="attachment_25942" align="aligncenter" width="1904"] Image Credit:

LuLu’s must-try drinks (starting at $24) are cocktails with a coy twist.

‘Big Coconuts’, for one, is very similar to a Pina Colada, but with a tangy, sour punch, and vodka.

[caption id="attachment_25944" align="aligncenter" width="836"] Image Credit:

If you’re familiar with Bang Bang and Employees Only, LuLu’s is opened by the same people, Sarissa and Joshua Schwartz.

The husband-and-wife duo draws inspiration from a fictional character, Lulu.

[caption id="attachment_25934" align="aligncenter" width="2000"] Image Credit:

This 15-Storey Glass Building Is A Super Car Vending Machine Hiding In Plain Sight

[Update: The location and opening hours of the showroom has been updated as the information reflected previously was incorrect.]

Love cars with a passion?

Nestled along the streets of Jalan Bukit Merah is a car enthusiast’s dream come to life. Spanning 15 floors and 4 columns, this glass structure looks like a larger than life Hot Wheels collection.

A Showroom Like No Other

Owned by Autobahn Motors, a luxury, sport, convertible and special interest automobile dealer, this decked out showroom is in a league of its own.

Boasting over 80 supercars on premise, in this showroom, the flashier the better. Mclarens, Bentleys and Porches line the glass windows of this automobile inventory-cum-showcase.

Also known as ‘The Largest Super Car Vending Machine’, the Autobahn Motors building is first and foremost a car storage facility with a built-in retrieval system. Car buyers are in for the royal–and technologically advanced–treatment when they go shopping at Autobahn Motors.

While most of us won’t be able to go anywhere near these luxurious speedsters, just admiring these beauties from afar is a treat for any car enthusiast!

Autobahn Motors
Address: 20 Jln Kilang, Singapore 159418
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am – 7pm; Sat-Sun: 12pm – 6pm

Also read, Pay As Little As 90 Cents For Your Uber Rides – There’s Just One Tiny Catch

Take A Swing At The Fragment Room – The Only Place In S’pore Where Violence Is The Cure

Living in Singapore comes with no small amount of stress.

For students and working adults alike, sometimes it gets to a point where it’s all just too much, when all you want to do is scream, hit or break something to let all that pent up frustration out.

The Fragment Room 

Lucky for us, The Fragment Room is offering itself up as an outlet for you to let out all that stress.

Located along Balestier Road, the premise of The Fragment Room is simple: you’re given half an hour (or more, depending on whether you need it) to smash everyday objects to smithereens.

Providing you with a safe space, everyday objects like plates, cups and electronics, and a baseball bat to smash up all of those things, The Fragment Room is a non-traditional form of anger therapy that will get your heart pumping.

Don’t worry about injuring yourself at The Fragment Room. Even with broken glass and electronics strewn on the floor, you’ll be decked out in safety gear so you’re 100% safe from flying debris.

Packages 

The Fragment Room offers up 3 standard packages.

There is the Single ($38), which offers up 1 crate of breakables for 30 mins, and there’s also the all out Annihilation ($220), which gives you a full hour, a sledgehammer and unlimited crates for you to vent to your heart’s content.

A third package called the Double lets you double up with a friend and wreak all kinds of havoc for 30 mins, over the contents of 2 crates.

If you’re an environmentalist who’s stressed out, fret not! All the breakables sourced by The Fragment Room are from scrap yards, so you’re not contributing to wastage or harming the planet!

Whatever is stressing you out, let it all out at The Fragment Room and unleash that inner hulk. Here, no one is judging.

The Fragment Room 
Address: 3 Balestier Road S329671
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 1pm – 10pm

Ambassador Highlights #9 – Darts, Thai Hotpot, $5 Drinks And More!

April has officially come to a close and that means one thing: time for another round-up of exciting activities our ambassadors dropped in on this month.

This month’s highlights include plenty of fresh new experiences and sumptuous noms!

1. I Darts Halo

Not your usual club scene with music, drinks, and a crowd, i Darts aims to create fun times you won’t forget with darts, a game everyone (yes, everyone) can play.

With a whole variety of ways to play the game, it’s great for bonding, learning more about each other, and in all, just having a great time with friends.

Our ambassadors Shivon, Diana, Jia Min, and Kimberley headed down to i Darts Halo, and shared good laughs over lively darts games!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSpyakYhsv4/?taken-by=siowjiamin%20group[/embed]

Those new to the game, fear not! There are helpful instructors ready to guide you, and you’ll be hitting the bullseye in no time.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSn1X69Bdtk/?taken-by=shivonchua[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSlUUU3lfos/?taken-by=dianabakar_[/embed]

At just a dollar a game, it’s perfect for a fun night with the gang without breaking the bank.

New members also receive a free i Darts card, and you’ll even get to walk away with your very own set of darts if you score 400 and above! Between you and us, it’s not that tough to hit 400.

Make a date with iDarts! Who knows? You may just discover a hidden talent as a darts master!

iDarts Singapore
Where: 201 Victoria Street Bugis+ #-03-24 Singapore 188067
Opening Hours: Sun-Thu & PH: 12.30pm to 1am; Fri, Sat & eve of PH: 12.30pm to 3am
Contact no.: 6634 9662
Website

2. Soi Thai Soi Nice

“People who love to eat are the best people”.

We know we do! Especially when it’s at Soi Thai Soi Nice, the latest Thai restaurant to hit the hot steamboat scene in Singapore.

[caption id="attachment_25704" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: Soi Thai Soi Nice[/caption]

The Thais love their food intense and flavourful–whether spicy, sweet or sour–and they love to wash that all down with a glass of refreshing ice milk tea.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSkeDX6BmTK/?taken-by=rachaelwong[/embed]

Our ambassadors, Eunice, Nicholas and Rachael got the royal treatment there, trying out their signature Royal Thai Hot Pot. 

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BS-8gjDl9ma/?taken-by=fat_noodle[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTC5Zw0gmvo/?taken-by=nicholaslgl[/embed]

Full of fresh seafood and meats, these premium ingredients are cooked in homemade authentic Tom Yam soup.

With 4 levels of spiciness, even those with a lower tolerance for spiciness can enjoy this bubbling hot, flavourful broth!

Soi Thai Soi Nice
Where: 321 Alexandra Road #02-01 @ Alexandra Central (Next to Ikea) Singapore 159972
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 11.30am – 3.30pm, 6.00pm – 10.00pm; Sat-Sun: 11.30am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6250 4863
Facebook

3. Dosirak

Who says eating healthy is only about expensive salads and wraps?

Dosirak serves up healthy, tasty, and convenient Korean food for those on the go!

[caption id="attachment_25702" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Our ambassadors Cheryl and Rachael headed down and were pleasantly surprised to find fresh flavours coming from the farm to their palms!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSuwqlRhS8D/?taken-by=rachaelwong[/embed]

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTF9jS7DxAT/?taken-by=cherzinga&hl=en[/embed]

To order, all you have to do is pick your base, choose your veggies, and finally, your meat(s). Then, take your box, add the secret sauce (psst, it’s gochujang) and shake it up!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTI2BiKBqqd/?taken-by=discoversgofficial[/embed]

Now, who says fast food ain’t good for you?

Dosirak
Where: 18 Cross Street, China Square Central #01-02, Singapore 048423.
Contact no.: 65366034
This one needs no introduction!

Bangkok’s famous hipster market must have flooded your Instagram feeds by now.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BS6OFPFhnUu/?taken-by=shivonchua[/embed]

Artbox featured plenty of local designers, affordable vintage fashion, quirky lifestyle products, modern home decor items and innovative snacks.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTTrwVBDLU_/?taken-by=kimberleyyong_[/embed]

Our ambassadors Cheryl, Vanessa, Shivon, Jia Min, Kimberley, Nicholas, Stephanie and Victoria headed down to join the insane crowd.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BS8YQEFBf1K/?taken-by=vaneszs.h[/embed]

Just like Bangkok’s version, they were treated to yummy nosh from international vendors, a beer market and beautiful fairy light displays!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BS-WVXXhkK0/?taken-by=siowjiamin[/embed]

While there’s only so much a person can eat, we weren’t going to let that stop us. We dug into acai bowls, truffle noodles, Thai milk tea custard bun, milk tea, and even whiskey butter steak and ice cream!

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTRDF7sghuy/?taken-by=piinkmasquerade[/embed]

We really hope it comes back next year ‘cuz this is one market we can’t get enough of.

5. Central Perk SG

“How you doin’?”

We dropped in on Central Perk SG, and we must say, it takes the idea of a themed cafe to the next level.

[caption id="attachment_25711" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit: Our ambassador Jessie, a huge Friends fan, headed down to check it out!

Friends fans will defo go crazy for this cafe’s interior. We were impressed by how it had the Central Perk Cafe cut right down to the tiniest detail.

While there, we also had a good laugh trying out their edible helium balloons, the latest addition to their extensive themed menu. 

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSv093Nl75G/?taken-by=jessiecupcakegirl[/embed]

Even the coffees here are themed after the memorable characters! Of course, Jessie had to order herself a strong ‘Joey Tribbiani’.

Who is your favourite FRIENDS character?

Central Perk SG
Where: 1 Magazine Road, Central Mall #01-01 Singapore 059567
Opening Hours: Sunday, Tues, Wed Thurs: 11am – 11pm; Fri, Sat: Open till late; Closed on mondays
Contact no.:  90252524
Annyeong haseyo!

KBBQ has been around for a while now, but you have to try the ultimate Korean charcoal grill experience at Seorae.

[caption id="attachment_25703" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Image Credit: Seorae[/caption]

Seorae is no ordinary Korean Restaurant. It’s the first Galmaegisal restaurant in Singapore. That’s a special pork cut that’s only available in 5% of the pig.

Our ambassadors Cheryl, Jia Min, and Nicholas headed down to try their juicy and tender meats.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BTYu46gjpu-/?taken-by=cherzinga[/embed]

Their favourites were the Signature Pork Skirt with Sweet Garlic Marinade, Beef Short Ribs and Army Stew!

We also had a blast trying on the traditional korean wear to pass the time while waiting to be seated.

For a sweet finish, there’s even a Bingsu counter for dessert! Yummm.

Seorae
Where: 68 Orchard Rd, #02-01, Plaza Singapura, 238839
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu: 11.30am – 10pm; Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 11pm, Sun: 11.30am-10pm
Contact no.: 9181 2709
Website

7. Five Square

Five Square (FIV五 Square) is a unique dining space made up of 3 different concepts: The Bazaar, The Bar and The Recess. 

Choose from 6 different cuisines at The Bazaar, chill over drinks, pool and darts at The Bar, and enter The Recess for an ultra-private session over whisky!

[caption id="attachment_25818" align="alignnone" width="2880"] Five Square Bar[/caption]

Our ambassador, Shivon headed down to catch up and chill after a long day at work.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BSqOmJHhrtq/?taken-by=shivonchua[/embed]

She got to enjoy great food and drinks in such a cosy ambience! There was even live music playing when we got there!

Heads up, it gets busy from 6.30pm, so make your way down early!

Five Square
Where: 1 Pickering Street, Great Eastern Centre, #01-03, Singapore 04865
Opening hours: Mon – Sat, 10am – 12am (Closed on Sundays and PH)
Website

8. Flying Monkey

Flying Monkey brings the fun back into dining!

This contemporary Indian restaurant and bar is casual, quirky and a belly rubbing kinda yummy!

[caption id="attachment_25707" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit: SG Asia City[/caption]

Housed in the culturally rich district of Kampong Glam, they offer authentic Pan-Indian cuisine with a pinch of excitement.

Our ambassador, Vanessa fell in love with The Flying Monkey cocktail, a smoked cocktail with a roasted aroma akin to an 18 year old whisky.

[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BS3DVDDBDeo/?taken-by=vaneszs.h[/embed]

The highlight of the night has to be the contemporary pan-Indian cuisine! Our favourites were the Tandoori Chicken and Tulsi Cod.

This restaurant serves up small Tapas plates so you can taste a wide range of flavours. They’re great for sharing too! If you’re a big eater, no worries. You can always order a Big Plate for gorgeous, full-sized meals.

Flying Monkey
Where: 67 Bussorah St, Singapore 199480
Opening Hours:  Sun-Thurs: 12.00pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11.00pm; Fri-Sat 12.00pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11.55pm
While so much has happened this month, we can’t wait to dive into even more fun events and happenings in May!

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 Taste The Goodness Of Sarawak At Face To Face – An Eatery That Stays True To Its Roots

The Chainsmokers & Ariana Grande To Perform Here In September – And They’re Not The Only Ones

Singapore may be a tiny dot on the map, but we sure are a huge spot for celebrities and musicians to make appearances at.

From Hugh Jackman to Coldplay, Singapore is no stranger to international movie premiers and huge sold-out concerts.

This September, 2 of the biggest acts of the moment will be landing on our shores: Ariana Grande and The Chainsmokers. 

Headlining the 2017 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix alongside OneRepublic, Duran Duran and Seal, there’s something for music lovers both young and old(er)!

Also read, Jay Chou To Return To Singapore In 2018 For Part 2 Of “The Invincible” Tour!