10 Facts You Didn’t Know About Singapore’s Last Surviving (And Well-Hidden) Battle Bunker!

Just a week ago, the National Parks Board announced that one of its projects – the Battle Box at Fort Canning Park, was given a $300,000 makeover.

The National Parks Board hopes that the revamp will attract more people to visit. Visitors will learn about this important place where critical decisions were made for Singapore. Before you pay this monumental site a visit, here’s 10 Facts You Didn’t Know About Singapore’s Battle Box.

(Image credit: Lim Sin Thai)

1. Back in World War 2, the Battle Box was built as the headquarters of the British Military Operations

The Battle Box was constructed to serve as the headquarters of the British Strategic Command during World War 2. More simply put, this was the place where all activities pertaining to the war in East Asia were controlled and managed. Decisions made in this emergency, bombproof command centre affected countries like Malaya and Hong Kong.

2. No battles took place at this bunker

The soldiers of the war termed this underground commander centre the ‘Battle Box’ even though no battle actually occurred here.

3. On 15 February 1942, the grave decision to surrender to the invading Japanese Forces was made at the Battle Box

On Sunday, the 15^th of February 1942, at 9:30am, Lieutenant General Arthur Percival held a conference in this very bunker to discuss the war situation with commanders of the Northern, Southern and Western areas. During this conference, the decision to surrender to the Japanese was made. The alternative choice, a counter attacking option, was deemed impractical.

4. The roof of the bunker conceals a secret exit

A simple search on Google reveals that there are only two entrances into the Battle Box Bunker – one on Cox Terrace and another on Dobbie Rise. What most people don’t know about is the third entrance located on the roof. Back in the past, the secret entrance was a guarded secret that has evidently lived on well till today.

5. The bunker is fully camouflaged

Despite its huge size (44 by 48.6 meters large, and 9.1 meters deep), the entire Battle Box remains camouflaged. As it is hard to spot, the place was spared from attacks. The top of the hill appears to be an area of greenery surrounded by the buildings on Dobbie Rise and Cox Terrace.

Only selected individuals knew of the Battle Box’s existence and were allowed access to it. Those who knew about it were made to swear to strict secrecy about their knowledge of the place. Even until today, many of them still refuse to talk about their experience at the site. Talk about loyalty!

6. There are a total of 29 rooms in the Battle Box Bunker

The Battle Box served a host of functions with 29 rooms. There was the signal room (also known as the post office). Here’s where messages were picked up or sent off. Signals received here were usually with regards to troop movements and new dispositions on the ground.

There’s the cipher room where all messages were decoded and encoded using various military codebooks and enciphering equipment. Messages received here are destroyed after 3 days using a large shredder machine located in the Battle Box.

Finally, there’s the signal control room. It was where people in the base would communicate with those in countries like Hong Kong, India and Indonesia. Messages would then be relayed to the base in London. Complete silence was essential in the room in order to take down the Morse code received, before sending it to the cipher room to be decoded.

7. Vacuum suction message tubes were used to send messages within the complex

Using a small container wrapped in rubber, an officer would place a document in a capsule and insert it in the tube. It would then be sucked to the other end of the pipe (the destination of the document). These tubes lined the entire complex, and gave a loud thud sound when it reached its destination – a fact recalled by many. This was also the system that massively inspired Elon Musk’s revolutionary Hyperloop.

8. Officers in the Battle Box communicated through the Telephone Exchange

Although the officers in the various rooms communicated with one another, most of them rarely saw their colleagues in the other rooms. They more often than not communicated through telephones routed through the telephone exchange system in the complex.

9. The soldiers stripped all but one room in the Battle Box when they surrendered and left the command center

(Image credit: Lim Sin Thai)

When the soldiers left the command center back in 1942, all but one room in the bunker was stripped. All items were burnt in a bonfire by the British a day before the surrender. The bunker remained abandoned until it was investigated on 23 February 1988 for possibilities of reconstructing World War II events.

10. Before the bunker’s reinvestigation, a journalist and her rookie photographer snuck into the bunker without official permission

In an attempt to get first hand exclusive scoop on the place, a journalist and her rookie photographer snuck into the bunker after being denied entry into the place by officials.

Upon entering, they found a number of things including:

• An empty blood stained stretcher that had been abandoned in the G Clerk’s room
• Toilets that were yellow stained and filled with fungus growth
• The remains of a dog that possibly got lost in the maze of rooms and died of starvation or disease.

The exclusive story eventually got published. More history on the bunker can be found at the 26^th July 1988 edition of the Straits Times (we are still trying to get our hands on a copy)!

Tour details:
The Battle Box will open in March 2016. Tours will cost $18 for adults, and $9 for children. For more information, You may call +65 6338 6133 or email [email protected].

So here’s your official scoop on 10 Facts You Didn’t Know About Singapore’s Battle Box! Let us know in the comments if you will be paying this interesting place a visit!

10 Out Of The World Budget Hostels in Singapore For Under S$50 A Night!

Looking for comfortable budget accommodations for less than S$50 a night? We’re sold. P.S. we know how important free wifi is in today’s world, so yes, all these picks come with free wifi too!

1. Traveller’s Loft @ Jalan Besar

This simple loft is clean and comfy, providing all the necessary amenities for an unbelievably low price. The rooms feature white bunk beds and clean, pastel walls. You’ll also be pleased to know that it’s just a few minutes away from Mustafa Centre, a 24 hour shopping mall and a budget shopping attraction.

Address: 290 Jln Besar, 208953
Phone: 6291 5238

Price starts from S$14 per night.

2. Shophouse, The Social Hostel

Whether you’re flying solo or travelling with friends, Shophouse is an excellent choice if you want to meet new people during your stay. True to its tagline of being ‘The Social Hostel’, you’ll be able to hang out with your new-found friends playing board games at the social lounge, swapping stories at the terrace under the moonlight, having coffee and brunch at the in-house cafe, or go on tours together with the discounted tickets from the reception.

Address: 48 Arab St, 199745
Phone: 6298 8721

Price starts from S$16 per night.

3. Gap Year Hostel

Of course, this isn’t only for students on gap year vacations, although it is especially suited for your first solo trip as it is extremely safe, being equipped with a 24 hour CCTV system, so you know you’re in good hands. Apart from that, the hostel also boasts all-day complimentary tea and coffee, a convenient location (a quick walk to Lavender MRT station), a hipster-ish polaroid photo wall, along with discounted tickets for some of the popular attractions in Singapore.

Address: 322 Lavender St, 338821
Phone: 6297 1055

Price starts from S$20 per night.

4. Pillow Talk Backpacker’s Hostel

No, this has nothing to do with Zayn Malik’s latest single. Pillow Talk Backpacker’s Hostel features cosy, capsule-style dormitories and casual lounge areas. As with the previous pick, this hostel is also just a few minutes walk away from Lavender MRT station, from which you can take the train to various city areas and tourist attractions. The hostel has won an award on Trip Advisor for their excellent hospitality as well.

Address: 5 Hamilton Rd, 209177
Phone: 6292 5611

Price starts from S$20 per night.

5. Five Stones Hostel

This cheery hostel has its rooms decorated with brightly coloured walls and vivid murals, along with windows that allow for lots of sunlight. The lounge area is equally well-designed, with plush sofas and a beautiful feature wall that illustrates the sights of Singapore, a number of which are just a stone’s throw away.

Address: 285 Beach Rd, 199550
Phone: 6535 5607

Price starts from S$28 per night.

6. Beary Best Hostel

Another colourful pick, this hostel has a cute name and an equally cute interior- complete with a stuffed toy bears at the lounge. Well-lit rooms and vibrant decor aside, this merry hostel has also been recommended on a number of big names including Time Out Singapore, Lonely Planet, and CNN Travel.

Address: 16 Upper Cross St, 058331
Phone: 6222 4957

Price starts from S$28 per night.

7. Mitraa Inn

With its name (Mitraa) meaning friend in Sanskrit, it’s no wonder why this inn brands itself as one of the friendliest backpackers hostel in Singapore. Roomy dorms, comfy beds, and well-equipped recreational areas complete this cosy inn.

Address: 531 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218163
Phone:6396 3317

Price starts from S$28 per night.

Also Read: Changi Recommend’s Overseas Wifi Router And Why You Should Book It For Your Next Trip

8. Footprints Hostel

Offering an affordable “home away from home” while you leave your footprints around the island of Singapore (their website even has an informative page on where to go), you can look forward to relaxing in front of the television with some ice cold beer after a day of exploring.

Address: 25A Perak Rd, 208136
Phone: 6295 5134

Price starts from S$31 per night.

9. Mercury Backpackers Hostel

A homely option, this hostel evokes a warm and cosy vibe from the rooms to the snug lounge areas. Plus, they have a rooftop garden where you can have a barbeque, chill in the jacuzzi, spend an afternoon suntanning, and enjoy your daily breakfast.

Address: 57 Lavender St, Singapore 338714
Phone: 6396 0500

Price starts from S$33 per night.

10. Bunc Boutique Hostel

Bunc features their own custom-made, spacious Bunc beds to provide a comfortable rest for guests. The casual dining and recreational areas are just as roomy, with neutral hues and minimalistic decor. Barbeque, gaming, and movie-watching facilities are a given, but this hostel offers an additional considerate measure by providing wheelchair access too.

Address: 15 Upper Weld Road.
Telephone: +65 6262 2862

Price starts from S$37 per night.

Hope this helps! Know any others we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

5 Best Craft Beer Bars For True Blue Beer Lovers In Singapore

Nickeldime Drafthouse, Jiburu and Smith Street Taps; as beer enthusiasts, we’re sure that you’d be familiar with these popular craft beer bars scattered across our island.

But as fellow true beer lovers, we know that you require something more exquisite (and possibly easier on the wallet) to quench your thirst for craft beers. From a mind-boggling range of beers to kickass views of Singapore’s skyline, below are five discreet craft beer bars that serve lip-smacking beers that don’t cost a week’s salary.

Next Door Café

Featuring over a hundred different beers from half a dozen countries, Next Door Café definitely has any beer lover covered. Besides its extensive drinks menu, Next Door also serves some of the most authentic Adriatic cuisine such as Grilled Lamb and Spicy Cheese Sausages. For recommendations on drinks that best complement your food, feel free to approach the café’s friendly and knowledgeable staff. With beers available from $8.80 during happy hours, all you have to do is to head Next Door for your after-work brew.

Address: 699 East Coast Road S459061
Tel: 6291 1351
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Tue-Sun 6pm-12am, Sat 12pm-2.30pm & 6pm-12am

Hopheads

Hidden within Innotel Hotel is Hopheads, an inconspicuous bar nestled in the heart of town. From craft ciders such as Thatchers Katy Cider to classic IPAs from Stone, this modest bar offers a surprisingly wide variety of drinks. Beers are decently priced at $7-$15 and 1-for-1 Macs Great White Cloudy Wheat Beer going all day long during weekends and from 6.30pm-9.30pm during weekdays ($14 for two pints). The selection of bottled and draft beers rotate every week so do keep a lookout for their latest menu on their Facebook page!

Address: 11 Penang Lane, Innotel Hotel S238485
Tel: 6635 7120
Operating Hours: Daily 11.30pm-12am

Brussel Sprouts

Unlike most of its counterparts, Brussel Sprouts is a family-friendly restaurant that provides all parents a short respite from their children. We’re obviously talking about the well-equipped play areas for the children and not about the restaurant’s menu that consists of over 150 different Belgian beers. Obviously.

Besides its boast worthy menu, the restaurant has also different daily promotions e.g. one-for-one draught beers on Mondays, for all seven days of the week. If this is not the opportunity to try out as many beers as you can head here for your next family day, we don’t know what is.

Address: 80 Mohamed Sultan Road #01-12, S239013/31 Ocean Way #01-01, S098375 (closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6887 4344
Operating Hours: Mon-Fri 5pm-11pm, Sat & Sun 12pm-11pm

Level 33

Imagine sipping at a pint of freshly brewed as you take in the gorgeous view of Singapore’s skyline. Looking for a watering hole with chilled-out-after-work vibes? This bar situated at the penthouse of Marina Bay Financial Centre has got your back and beer belly. Although the bar has only a couple of beers on the menu, the towering brewing tanks found onsite will ensure you the freshest beer possible. Coupled with the kickass view and happy hours (300ml at $9.35+ before 8pm and $13.35+ after 8pm, 500ml at $12.35+ before 8pm and $17.35+ after 8pm), we’re pretty sure few will mind the less than variable menu. Guys, now you know where to impress your dates without having to break the bank. You’re welcome.

Address: 8 Marina Boulevard #033-01, Marina Bay Financial Centre, S018981
Tel: 6834 3133
Operating Hours: Sun-Thu 12pm-12am, Fri & Sat 12pm-2am 

Little Island Brewing Co

Our favourite craft beer bar of the lot, Little Island is a spacious warehouse-like microbrewery that serves wheat beers, pale and golden ales. What really makes this brewery stand out is its pay-as-you-pour system, where beers are charged by the amount poured. By being your own bartender, you’ll be able to save on cash and have more tummy space to try more brews (we admittedly tried all beers before crowning Singapore Pale Ale our favorite). Brews at Little Island are typically priced at $2-$3 per 100ml so yes, it’s a sign to drink your fill. Besides craft beers and wines, Little Island also serves affordable tapas such as Fries & Aioli ($5) to complement your beer-tasting session. We’re not sure about you, but our trip to the far east is definitely worth it.

Address: Block 6 Changi Village Road #01-01/02 S509907
Tel: 65439100
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Tue-Thur 12pm-11pm, Fri-Sun 12pm-12am

The next time you and your drinking kakis run out of breweries and bars to visit, you know where to go. Don’t say we neh share.

https://www.facebook.com/discover.sg.official/posts/1953364744889218

5 War Museums In Singapore You Must Visit At Least Once In Your Life!

February…Chinese New Year festivities and the month of love and romance! But do you remember the important event Singapore commemorates in the same month?

Observed annually on 15 February, Total Defence Day marks Singapore’s fall to the Japanese in 1942. This commemoration seeks to remind people of the pain and suffering endured by our forefathers during the Japanese Occupation, as well as to instill the strategy of “Total Defence” in our people, understanding that each one has a part to play in the survival of our country.

To learn more about the Japanese Occupation in Singapore and the tenacious spirits of our forefathers in protecting this land, here are the 5 war museums in Singapore you should visit.

1. Image Credits: Sentosa[/caption]

Located on Sentosa Island, Fort Siloso is the only preserved coastal fort in Singapore today. It was initially built in the 1880s to protect the island from sea invasion, and the guns were turned inwards facing the land when the Japanese invaded during World War II. Upon seizing Singapore, the Japanese used the fort as a prisoner-of-war (POW) camp.

Today, Fort Siloso is a military museum with gun displays and remains of military structures and tunnels. Admission is free, but admission into the Surrender Chambers is chargeable. The Surrender Chambers feature waxworks of the British Surrender at the Old Ford Factory, commentaries, and exhibitions. Guided tours are available too.

Siloso Point, Sentosa Island
Daily: 10am-6pm (last entry at 5.30pm)

2. Image Credits: Channel News Asia[/caption]

The Changi Museum provides valuable but heartwrenching insights of the POWs who were taken into captivity during the Japanese Occupation. The exhibitions are split into five sections, showing visitors what happened during the war through a collection of photographs, paintings, letters and personal artefacts donated by former POWs. Wartime art pieces produced by the prisoners are also on display, recording their experiences in Changi Prison. Changi Chapel, dedicated to the memory of the POWs and the civilian internees, is located on the museum grounds as well.

Visitors can choose to go on a guided tour, or rent an audio set to listen to first-hand stories and experiences of the POWs.

1000 Upper Changi Road North
Daily: 9.30am-5pm (last entry at 4.30pm)

3. Image Credits: YourSingapore.com[/caption]

Reflections at Bukit Chandu is a heritage centre housed in a restored colonial bungalow. Bukit Chandu (Malay for Opium Hill) was where one of the fiercest and last significant battles took place before the British surrendered Singapore to the Japanese. The Battle of Pasir Panjang, also known as the Battle of Bukit Chandu, saw 1400 valiant soldiers from the Malay Regiment fight dauntlessly against a 13 000 strong Japanese army. Despite being severely outnumbered, Lieutenant Adnan Saidi refused to retreat and surrender, and the troops even engaged in hand-to-hand combat after running out of ammunition.

The museum exhibits photographs, maps, artefacts and interactive media, showcasing the tenacity of the Malay Regiment, and other wartime experiences.

31-K Pepys Road
Tues-Sun: 9am-5.30pm
Closed on Mondays, except on Public Holidays

4. The Battle Box

[caption id="attachment_1812" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credits: ST Photos Lim Sin Thai[/caption]

The Battle Box is a 9m deep emergency bunker located beneath Fort Canning Hill, where the British army set up their headquarters in Singapore. It was once the nerve centre of British military operations, consisting of 30 rooms including a cipher room where messages were decoded, a signal control room, and a gun operations room.

The Battle Box is also the site where Lieutenant-General Arthur Percival, the General Officer Commanding (Malaya), held a conference to discuss the war situation with other commanders, and then reached the decision to surrender to the Japanese.

The bunker was later converted into a museum in 1992, with artefacts on display depicting the final days before Singapore fell to the Japanese. It has recently undergone a revamp, and will feature multimedia guides, 3D technologies, and a retelling of the story of Singapore’s capture.

2 Cox Terrace
Reopening in March 2016

5. Image Credits: National Archives of Singapore[/caption]

The Ford Motor Factory was the site where the British surrendered Singapore to the Japanese on 15 February 1942, drastically altering the lives of the people in Singapore. Lieutenant-General Tomoyuki Yamashita, head of the Japanese invading forces, seized the factory as his headquarters after capturing Bukit Timah, and demanded for the British’s unconditional surrender.

During the Japanese Occupation, the factory was used to assemble military trucks and other vehicles for the Japanese war effort. Today, the restored factory captures the memories and reflections of the hardships faced by those who had lived through the war. Visit the Boardroom of Surrender where the Surrender Papers were signed, and the Syonan Garden where some of the common food items during the wartime are grown. The Talking Map is an interactive exhibit that traces the route of the Japanese as the advanced into Singapore, with oral histories and first-hand experiences of survivors of the war.

351 Upper Bukit Timah Road
Mon-Sat: 9am-5.30pm
Sun: 12pm-5.30pm
Closing on 16 Feb 2016
Reopening in 2017

(Featured Image Credits: Sentosa)

If You Have Seen All These Famous Sculptures In Singapore, You Are A True Blue Singaporean!

Sir Stamford Raffles, Victoria Concert Hall

One of the most famous statues in Singapore, the statue of Sir Stamford Raffles was installed by the 14th governor of the Straits Settlements Frederick Weld (1823-1891) in 1887 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s reign. Originally placed at the Padang, which was believed to be the spot where Sir Stamford Raffles first stepped ashore on the island of Singapore, the statue was moved to its present-day location outside Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall.

Bird, UOB Plaza

The work of Colombian figurative artist, Fernando Botero, well-known for his unique style of creating figurines that are rotund and disproportionate. This adorably plump bird which symbolises peace, serenity and optimism, is sponsored by United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) and stands by the side of the Singapore River. The bird signifies growth and prosperity for Singapore in years to come. 

Progress and Advancement, Raffles Place

Showing a detailed Central Business District (CBD) by the Singapore River, this 4m-tall sculpture is the work of Yang-Ying Feng. Standing at the heart of Singapore’s financial hub, it signifies the progress and advancement of Singapore’s financial sector. It was donated on 8th August 1988 by local entrepreneur and founder of Overseas Union Bank Limited (OUB) George Lien Ying Chow (1907-2004).

First Generation, Fullerton Hotel

This work by Chong Fah Cheong transports us back to the early days of Singapore where children frolicked by the Singapore River, indulging in tree climbings and river jumpings. In 1983, the Clean Rivers Project was launched, moving families and hawkers inland, and that marked the end of such simple entertainment.

Other sculptures around Fullerton:

Fishing at Singapore River, Singapore River

Created by Taiwan-born sculptor Chern Lian Shan who began calling Singapore his home in 1980, “Fishing At Singapore River” is one of his many works which depict life in Singapore before the colonial times. Before the arrival of the British, the native Orang Laut, or sea people, plied their trades as fishermen on the Singapore River. With the growth of the city, the river became so polluted all fishes disappeared from the river. This was reversed gradually with the launch of Clean Rivers project in the 1980s.

The River Merchants, Maybank Tower

One of Aw Tee Hong’s creations, this cluster of sculptures shows coolies loading goods onto a bullock cart while Scottish Alexandre Laurie Johnston, one of the most well-known merchants of the early days, engaged in negotiations with a Chinese trader and a Malay chief. The present day Maybank tower, where Johnson set up his company, was the nearest to the mouth of Singapore River and was in a prime position to catch the merchant captains as their boats entered the river.

Price of Peace, Bukit Chandu

This group of sculptures were built in rememberance of how the 1st and 2nd Battalion of the Malay Regiment defended Bukit Chandu in the Battle of Pasir Panjang in 1942 during the Japanese invasion.

Malay lieutenant Adnan bin Saidi (1915-1942) led his troops against the Japanese and fought bravely despite being heavily outnumbered. He was caught, tortured and killed. Sacrificing their lives to defend their country, these heroes will forever be remembered.

The Ju Ming – Taichi – Botanical Gardens

Laid in the Botanical Gardens, you can find the magnificent, thought-provoking bronze sculptures by famed Taiwanese sculptor Ju Ming. Installed around the Eco Lake, in the section of the gardens closer to Bukit Timah, these sculptures belong to the Taichi Series, majestic expressions of the Chinese meditative exercise.

Another Day, Singapore Arts Museum

The sculptures known as “Another Day (The Coolies)” are bronze depicting two manual workers of bygone days sharing a meal are display at the Singapore Art Museum.

Have you seen all of these sculptures in Singapore? Let us know in the comments below!

8大免费旅游景点 教你不花钱畅游狮城

8大免费旅游景点 教你不花钱畅游狮城

身为新加坡人，是否常对于怎么好好运用周末而感到头疼吗？但你可否知道，在新加坡这座消费昂贵的城市里，仍然有许多免消费景点值得让我们好好发掘！今天就让小编带你看看8项在新加坡不用花钱就能做到的活动有哪些吧～

1. Coney Island Park

这座岛也被称之为实龙岗岛，而这座岛在近期内更成为了颇受居民欢迎的骑车胜地。小编强烈推荐喜欢处身在大自然森林环境中的朋友，这秀美的自然风光和安宁的环境绝对是个可以让你放松身心的休闲好去处！

2. Punggol Waterway Park

Punggol Waterway是新加坡最长的人工水道，水道两旁不但设有步行道和脚踏车道同时该地设有喷水池和沙池儿童游乐场，这可说是全家同乐的好去处啊！此外，小编最爱这个地方是因为这里有着一棵非常著名的“Instagram Tree”。如果你去了，可别忘了和这棵老树合照留念喔！P.S. 别说小编没提醒你。

3. Library@Orchard

如果你也和小编一样喜爱阅读各类书籍，那你又怎么能错过这预有五万本书籍的图书馆呢？Orchard Library位于新加坡繁华的购物圣地，这家图书馆很大一部分的藏书均与设计有关，而图书馆的装修与内饰风格也极具设计感，来乌节路购物的闲余可以来这里感受一下不一样的氛围。

4. Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay是新加坡最优美的园林杰作。Supertree（人造树）在白天给人看到了种满种类繁多的蕨类植物、藤本植物、兰花和各种热带攀爬类植物，在闹市中依然有着绿油油的感觉。此外，Supertree在夜晚亮灯之后，七彩绚丽的灯光也呈献了另一番的美。在Supertree之间有一条叫做OCBC Skyway的通道衔接着，如果走在Supertree下面的话，是不需要给入门费的，但如果你要走上OCBC Skyway参观的话，那可就要另外付费了。

5. Marina Barrage

跨越滨海水道河口，Marina Barrage可说是新加坡市中心最新的地标。它那宏伟的建筑是人们的必到之处。游客们可以漫步在堤坝的建筑结构上与那令人惊嘆的蓄水设备做近距离的接触，或者是选择游览那有趣的多媒体走廊，另外，你也可以站在那有著绿油油草地的屋顶上放风筝并欣赏那新加坡城市美丽的天际线，当然这里也会是个野餐的最佳地点咯！

6. Henderson Waves

远离繁华都市的Henderson waves能让你更靠近大自然，有许多的路跑或是背包客们都会在此地驻足。对於有惧高症的人来说，在这大约有30~40公尺高度的桥上，你可能要做点心理准备喔！晚上来这裡也非常的愜意，大家可以躺在桥上聊天或打桌游。坐公车便可以到达此地，可说是个又方便又另类的休闲场所。

7. MacRitchie Reservoir TreeTop Walk

这又会是一个可以让你远离都市喧嚣的好地方。想象在一座横挂的吊桥上，漫步在这座自然生态中，是不是也觉得可以吸收些什么正能量呢？TreeTop Walk是一个全程长大8km的休闲锻炼好去处，但是小编要在这里提醒你，由于该地区是生态保护区，所以你也会在这里看到很多活泼好动的猕猴们哦！

8. WONDER FULL喷泉演奏会

6 Places To Donate Your Things This Chinese New Year

Its the season of Spring Cleaning in the homes of many as the year of the monkey is close approaching. This year, instead of throwing your unwanted goods out, why not give it away? There are tons of charity stores that are in need of items to pass on to the needy, or to sell at their respective thrifts stores for funding. From clothes and books, to even your used undergarments, here’s a list of charities that you can do good with this upcoming Lunar New Year:

1. The Salvation Army 

Goods donated to The Salvation Army are processed by their social enterprise arm, Red Shields Industries. Their job helps ensure that the donated items are in a good enough condition to retail at their family thrift stores located across the island.

Items Needed: 

• Clothing
• Shoes
• Bags
• Toys
• Books
• Kitchen Utensils
• Small House Appliances
• Electrical and Electronic Items

In lieu of the overwhelming donations received for the coming Lunar New Year, The Salvation Army has also opened a drive thru donation booth at their Tanglin Road outlet.

Address: 356 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247674 (Beside No 1 Kay Siang Road and opposite Grace Assembly of Church/ Crescent Girls School)

Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday, 10am – 6pm and Friday – Saturday, 10am – 9pm

Website: 

2. Dignity Mama 

Dignity Mama allows parents with intellectually/ physically challenged children an opportunity to work together and run a business in the form of a secondhand bookstore. Books donated here help sustain these stores that give and equip children with disabilities the chance to stand on their own two feet.

Items Needed:

• Storybooks
• Comics
• Management Books
• Encyclopaedias
• Magazines
• Art & Craft Books
• Autobiographies

Before donating, please ensure that the items are in a presentable enough state to be sold to members of the public

Address: 1 Lower Kent Ridge Road #01-39, One @ Kent Ridge, Singapore 119082

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 1100 – 1900

Website: 

3. Dress For Success

Following their mission to empower women to achieve economic independence, Dress For Success is looking for clothes to pass on to a lesser privileged woman to wear for job interviews. They believe that the right outfit can give a woman the confidence to enter or return to the workplace, and make a great first impression to land a job that could change her life.

Items Needed:

• Interview and Work Appropriate Dresses
• Interview and Work Appropriate Tops (Jackets, Blouses, Blazers, Cardigans/ Sweaters)
• Interview and Work Appropriate Bottoms (Skirts/ Pants)
• Interview and Work Appropriate Shoes
• Interview and Work Appropriate Accessories (Jewelry, Belts, Shawls/ Scarves)
• Handbags (Briefcases, Portfolios or Work Appropriate Bags)

Address: 8 Burn Road #11-05, Trivex Singapore, Singapore 369977

Opening Hours: By appointment only. Call +65 65093471

Website: https://singapore.dressforsuccess.org/get-involved/donate/

4. MINDS Shop

With 5 thrift stores under their name, the MINDS Shop serves as an avenue for their intellectually disabled clients to interact with customers. Their stores are home to a wide range of products, from furnitures to apparel that all deserve a new lease of life.

Items Needed: 

• Clothes
• Bags
• Books
• Small Furniture
• Household Items
• Toys

Before donating, please ensure that all items are in a usable, good condition.

Address: MINDS Shop @ Margaret, 800 Margaret Drive, Singapore 149310

Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 1000 – 1500.

Website: 

5. Pass It On

Pass It On allows donators and receivers alike to post items that they would like to give or receive on the website’s home page. Their aim is to provide a meaningful way to distribute unwanted, albeit useful items to benefit the needy.

Items Needed: 

• Home Appliances
• Home Furniture
• Medical Aids
• Mobility Aids
• Learning Aids

To donate, add your items to the list and wait for someone to contact you.

6. Uplift in Bras

Intimate garments such as bras are something that Singaporeans tend to take for granted. However, many women in third world countries are unable to afford bras, and often go most of their lives without. Here come Uplift in Bras, a charity organisation that collects your old bras to send to various NGOs and support groups. These organisations will in turn will distribute the items to underprivileged ladies and disadvantaged communities.

Items Needed: 

• Any style bras
• Nursing, maternity or breastfeeding bras
• Mastectomy bras – with or without prosthesis/ gel/ etc.
• Nursing pads – disposables or reusables

Please ensure that bras are relatively clean and not torn with clasps broken, and are meant for daily wear.

To donate, email [email protected] for the donation address, or whatsapp +65 82561848 for more information.

Website: 

(Featured image credits: Shutterstock)

14 Free Things To Do On Valentine’s Day

Ah Valentine’s Day.

A day of love, affection, chocolates, and cards. But for some, it’s a day of dilemmas and frustration. Every year, many of us whine about not knowing where to go and what to do. Plans that entail not burning a hole in our pockets or breaking the bank are high on many Singaporeans’ priorities. Lest many also forget to consider, it should also be romantic or we risk incurring the wrath of our other halves.

Alas, no more hassles and no more worries. Don’t let the absence of money spoil this wonderful day. It’s the thought that counts after all right? As Valentine’s Day falls on the 14^th, the team in Discover SG has compiled 14 free things that couples can do on this coming Valentine’s Day.

1) Take a Stroll Along Henderson Waves

Who knew the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore would actually be such an idyllic place for romance? Not only does the bridge resemble the undulating shape of a wave, its scrupulously designed shape allows it to have recesses, where pedestrians can observe and take in the natural beauty of their surroundings. To all lovebirds out there, be sure to check this place out at dusk, when the mood is enhanced by luminous lighting and a gorgeous night sky.

Location: Southern Ridges, Henderson Road, Bukit Merah, Singapore 159557

2) Appreciate The Arts In Gillman Barracks

Gillman Barracks is the indie and lesser-known home to internationally-celebrated and contemporary art pieces. With 11 different galleries to choose from and exhibitions that change periodically, you don’t have to be an art enthusiast to find something that captures your eye. And with such diversity, there are many insta-worthy spots for couples to get their “sophistication” on!

Location: 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937

3) Traipse Around The Garden

Gardens by the Bay, Singapore’s futuristic garden, is nothing short of unbelievable at night. With the radiating Supertrees standing stoically nearby and the signature display of lights and sounds that begin at 7.45pm, a walk around this lush and multi-colored wonderland could be one of the best Valentine’s Day ideas ever.

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

4) Watch a Watershow at Marina Bay Promenade

Known as Wonder Full, Singapore’s premier light and water show is a stunning convergence of light, music, and sound. Impress your girl with this dazzling 15-minute display and witness the water transform into images that tells the tale of the journey of life. As the show begins at 8pm, for best viewing, reach early and ‘chope’ the middle seats for the optimum experience.

Location: 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972

5) Stargaze at Tanjong Beach

For a day of tranquility and to simply unwind and enjoy each other’s company, Tanjong Beach is the ideal place. The wide expanse of pristine sand and a cool seaside breeze provides the perfect setting for a simple picnic and pleasant conversations. At nightfall, end the day off in spectacular fashion under a blanket of stars.

Location: Sentosa

6. Have Dessert At Esplanade Roof Terrace

With the panoramic views of Marina Bay serving as a dramatic backdrop, couples can forge a wonderful memory together at the top of the Esplanade. Gaze upon the bay when dusk falls and witness the gorgeous Helix Bridge light up before your eyes. Remember to sweeten the deal with some yummy desserts before heading up there!

Location: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

7) Marvel At The Cityscape At ION Sky

You know what they say – there’s no greater love than one that is 218 meters into the clouds. Enjoy sweeping views of the stunning cityscape through state-of-the-art BEHOLDTIM telescopes, the first telescope of its kind in Asia. Open from 3pm – 6pm daily, don’t miss out on an opportunity to take your relationships to greater heights, literally.

Location: 2 Orchard Turn, Level 56, Singapore 238801

8) Visit The Love Temple

Yueh Hai Ching Temple is one of the oldest in Singapore. It is known as The Love Temple because Yue Lao, believed to be the elder of the moon deity, sits in the center of this temple. Yue Lao is a matchmaker deity who ties red strings to couples, symbolizing marriage, love and romance. Are spiritual blessings on Valentine’s Day the best gifts of all?

Location: 30B Phillip Street, Singapore 048696

9) Have A Picnic At Marina Barrage

Who knew that this innovative facility that helps supply water to Singaporeans is also one of the nicest places in the evening? The rooftop of the barrage boasts a circular green space that’s popular for picnics and sightseeing. As one of the go-to attractions for couples in Singapore, it is perhaps mandatory to include this on the list.

Location: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951

10) Watch An Outdoor Movie

MovieMob is a free outdoor drive-in movie screening that takes place in all locations around Singapore. Similar to the ones that we see in movies, this event happens on a first-come-first serve basis, so it’s best to stay updated on their social media pages. Although they don’t have fixed schedules, the people behind MovieMob are definitely planning something for Valentine’s Day. Watch this space.

11) Enjoy Some Sweet Tunes At Botanical Gardens

For a relaxing night in luscious natural settings, the Singapore Botanical Gardens is the quintessential choice. Be serenaded by the melodic vocals and romantic tunes of live bands under a moon lit sky. As this would be wildly popular, be prepared to head down an hour earlier to “chope” your seats. The performances begins at 7pm sharp!

Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569

12) Admire The Sunset At Labrador Park

During the day, you’d expect to see many families around the area due to its scenic views of the sea. However, at sundown, Labrador Park, coupled with well-lit paths and cool sea breezes, transforms into an offbeat place in Singapore for lovebirds. Let the sounds of gentle waves and the dim golden glow of the setting sun stir up your love.

Location: Labrador Villa Road, Singapore 119187

13) Cement Your Love At Clarke Quay

Not many know about this, but did you know that there is a place in Clarke Quay for couples to hang their love locks? For the uninitiated, love locks are used by couples to symbolize their love for one another. The key is then thrown away to make it forever. Located just outside Clarke Quay Central, be sure to bring your own padlocks and Polaroids you don’t mind losing!

Location: 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059817

14) Quality Time At Home

To end off this list, people often underestimate the simplest gestures. Sometimes, a home-cooked meal followed by a romantic movie with wine and chocolate is really all that it takes to demonstrate your love for each other. Or perhaps, spend the evening at home sweet home in each other’s arms and cozy up with candles and ambient music.

(Image credits: The Date Report)

Whatever it is, the team at Discover SG wishes you all the best in your Valentine’s Day endeavors!

(Featured image credits: The Date Report)