Category: Editor’s Pick

Mid-Autumn Fest: 5 Romantic Places To Visit With Your Date That Will Set Your Heart Aflutter

Every year, families gather to indulge in mooncakes, and enjoy dazzling lighting displays and lantern processions in celebration of Mid-Autumn festival.

In appreciation of the lunar moon, celebrations go into full swing once the sun sets. Thinking about where to celebrate this year’s Mid-Autumn festival? We’ve round up the best places to visit with your date that’s bound to set your heart aflutter. Enjoy the full moon, savour mooncakes, and soak in the sights and sounds!

1. Chinatown Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations 2016 

This year, the street light-up features lantern displays telling the legendary story of Chang’Er and Hou Yi. Book your date and head to Chinatown to view the gorgeous yearly Mid-Autumn light up. The light up will be displayed till 30 September.

After viewing the massive light displays, join in the festive fun with live nightly performances at Kreta Ayer Square. With performances by local entertainers and troupes from China, you’ll be entertained by animated and dynamic Chinese cultural acts, folk songs and music and dances.

During the festival, walk along the bustling street and shop through the night. The streets will be bustling with stalls selling traditional and modern mooncakes, decorative ornaments, preserved fruits, potted plants, clothing and many more!

Date: 2 to 15 September 2016
Time: 7pm till late
Location: Chinatown

Mass Lantern Walk
Date & Time: 11 September, 7:00PM – 10:00PM
Starting point: Kreta Ayer Square

2. Mid-Autumn @ Gardens by the Bay

Happening from now till 18 September, experience Gardens by the Bay in a whole new light. You can expect dazzling displays of handcrafted lantern sets to multimedia installations and nightly performances located at the Gardens.

[caption id="attachment_14101" align="aligncenter" width="1670"] Credit: gardensbythebay.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_14103" align="aligncenter" width="2000"] Credit: gardensbythebay.com[/caption]

Bring your lanterns and join in for a stroll along the Gardens! Nothing else will set your heart aflutter like strolling among beautiful light displays.

Date: 3 to 18 September 2016
Time: 7pm to 11pm
Location: Gardens by the Bay

3. Wan Qing Mid-Autumn Festival 2016

[caption id="attachment_14104" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Credit: Jamie Koh[/caption]

Relive your childhood memories at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall as life-sized lantern installations resembling old playgrounds will be displayed.

Head down this weekend on 10 and 11 September as there are free programmes for everyone – Lantern Making Workshop, Shadow Puppetry, Xin Yao Live Band, and more!

You can also wind down and relax to popular ’90s music performances or listen to storytelling featuring Mid-Autumn tales. Sounds like a great idea for an awesome date!

Date: 9 to 18 September 2016
Time: 7pm to 10pm
Location: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall

4. Moonfest 2016 Esplanade

Join in the celebrations at the Esplanade with its annual Chinese traditional arts festival.

There are workshops available such as DIY Snowskin Mooncakes, as well as a Lantern-Making Workshop. No better time to impress your date with your handicraft skills!

Both ticketed and free programmes are available, check out the detailed listings here.

Date: 9 to 11 September 2016
Time: Various timings
Location: Esplanade

5. Chinese Garden Mid-Autumn Festival 2016

The Chinese Gardens is one place you must not miss out during Mid-Autumn Festival. With spectacular displays of large-scale lanterns and props, this tranquil garden will be transformed into an epic date-worthy place.

Location: Chinese Gardens

With so many events happening this Mid-Autumn festival, take some time off and spend it with your date, friends or family. Indulge in those delicious mooncakes and stroll along the parks and gardens with your lanterns.

Though the Mid-Autumn festival is largely celebrated by the Chinese community, everyone from all walks of life and races are always welcomed to join in the fun!

(Header image by yoursingapore)

Also, read Boutique Fairs Is Back, And It’ll Make You Say “I Do” All Over Again

Romance Yourself This Weekend With Wine, Cheese, Oysters & More At Savour Wines!

Sometimes all you need at the end of a crazy workweek is a glass of quality wine. If that’s what you’re after, then you’re in luck! Having garnered a reputation as one of the world’s best gourmet festivals, SAVOUR is once again back in town with SAVOUR Wines.

As the second instalment in the SAVOUR festival series this year, we’re going to tell you why you’ll want to check out Savour Wines this weekend (9 – 11 Sept 2016).

Image Credits:

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Image Credits: Sunset Station

If all these sound pretty pricey, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise!

Tickets go from $15 for 10 wine tastings, complimentary Badoit sparkling water as well as a limited edition wine glass if you book online.

You can also purchase tickets at the venue directly from $10 for 10 wine tastings (wine glass not included). However, those tickets are subjected to availability.

Entry to the Gourmet Village is free.

Do note that only 700 places are available for the Wine Market, so do book your tickets ASAP if possible. For a more detailed breakdown of the ticket prices, click

Image Credits: 9 Sept (Friday): 1800-2300
10 & 11 Sept (Saturday & Sunday): 1100-1600 & 1800-2300
For more information, click Have You Thanked The Hawker Who Served You Food Today?

Header image credit:

Have You Thanked The Hawker Who Served You Food Today?

You probably just had your Wanton Mee, Mee Rebus, or Prata. The food hit all the right notes, and you couldn’t be happier. However, did you remember to thank the hawker who works tirelessly to serve you the same great food every day?

Fret not, most of us take our delectable Singapore local food for granted. In fact, we love our Singapore food, especially our local hawker food so much, that the saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach is the best description of us ever.

Our Love for Hawker Food

Without hesitation, we engage in discussions and debates over the best Bak Chor Mee, Indian Rojak, Nasi Lemak, and the list goes on. When the Michelin Guide came rolling around to Singapore, not only did we question their processes and decisions, we offered better suggestions, and even defended our own favourite hawkers.

It’s as if we were Smaug from The Hobbit that woke from a deep slumber. Singapore suddenly came abuzz with chatter and discussion about our pet topic – food.

Our Hawker Scene

However, what most of us Singaporeans fail to realise is that this beloved national hobby – eating good hawker food, may one day become a luxury. Just like the pasar malams that are far and few between, our dying local hawker scene is real. How many youths would willingly step up and pursue the career of a hawker?

A Little Thanks Goes a Long Way

Rather than talk pointlessly about this issue, we could instead, remind ourselves to thank our unsung hawker heroes! They are the ones whose cheeks are flushed from spending long hours next to the flame. Their rough but skillful hands have chopped many a dozen vegetables. Being a hawker is definitely no walk in the park. And it’s time we show our appreciation and thanks!

#uncagestreetfood by Tiger Beer

“Knowing that their efforts have not gone to waste and that their food is enjoyed and appreciated is what keeps our hawkers going,”

“And for all they do, it’s time to say thank you.”

Taking the lead to remind us of our hawkers’ hard work, Tiger Beer has provided Singaporeans the perfect opportunity and platform for us to express our gratitude. This film of Mdm Wong from Hong Kong Roast Pork at Pek Kio Hawker Centre flawlessly encapsulates the effort and dedication it takes to be a great hawker.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOHG5ryrYOU&feature=youtu.be

Mdm Wong doesn’t just stop at dishing out warm plates of great hawker food; she goes the extra mile to provide food coupons to senior citizens. Fully aware that some elderly in the neighbourhood struggle to pay for their food at times, she allows them to exchange the coupon for a free meal at her stall.

Mdm Wong walks the talk by giving back to society. Surely, you can too, by just thanking a hawker and taking a photo!

Show Your Love to Our Unsung Heroes With a Message

Tiger Beer makes it easy for us to show our heartfelt appreciation to hawkers like Mdm Wong. All we have to do is take a photo of our favourite hawker fare, share it on social media with a thank you message, and include #uncagestreetfood.

Who are the hawkers who serve you daily? Could it be that friendly uncle at the Prata stall under your block who greets you with a smile every morning? Or the generous auntie at the nearby mixed vegetable rice store who gives you an extra portion of steamed egg because you’re a regular customer?

An Epic Food Trial Journey to Start You Off

Not sure how you should kick start this movement to show gratitude to our hawkers? How about exploring Pek Kio Hawker Centre, where Mdm Wong has her stall?This food centre is known for its wide variety of scrumptious local fare.

Cambridge Rd Hong Kong Roast Pork (#01-08)

Pop by Mdm Wong’s stall first to say hello! Her signature roast pork rice is succulent and crispy. We heard that there’s a lunch queue at times, so be prepared for some waiting.

 Wah Kee Big Prawn Noodles (#01-15) 

This store is famous for their aromatic prawn noodle soup, served with their signature large and juicy prawns. The soup has a delicious depth of flavour that doesn’t overwhelm, even when you’re on your second bowl!

Operating hours: 7.30am to 2pm (Closed on Monday and Tuesday)
Prices start from $5

Hong Kong Style Chee Cheong Fun (#01-25) 

If you’re craving handmade, silky Chee Cheong Fun with just the right amount of bite, look no further. There’s a reason why this store only sells Chee Cheong Fun. It’s just that good! Take a leap of faith and order the creative renditions of this local dish: Chee Cheong Fun filled with char siew, prawns, scallops, and even Abalone.

Operating hours: 6.30am to 1.30pm (Closed on Alternate Wednesdays)
Prices range from $3-$16.80 per plate

Sheng Seng Hokkien Mee (#01-40)

Their springy noodles are slick with flavourful, viscous gravy. You’ll probably spot this store immediately thanks to its long queue, so be sure to get there early before this plate of steaming goodness sells out!

Operating hours: 11.30am to 5pm (Closed on Mondays)
Price: $2.50

Tong Siew Fried Rice (#01-23)

With three crowd-pleasing dishes: fried rice, hor fun and oyster omelette, you’re spoilt for choice! Famous for their quality and their quantity, Tong Siew Fried Rice stall offers very generous portions for all these dishes at an affordable price. The must-try of this stall is definitely their namesake – the Fried Rice. We heard that the crunchy texture of the ikan bilis perfectly complements the soft and fragrant rice!

Operating hours: 12.30pm to 12mn
Hor Fun ($2.50), Fried Rice ($4) and Oyster Omelette ($4)

Tiger Street Food Support Fund

The above are but a few picks from Singapore’s wide palette of hawker stalls. In a bid to keep this proud and roaring flame alive, Tiger Singapore has set up a fund to encourage aspiring hawkers to enter the trade.

20 cents from each 6-can pack of beer purchased will be channelled to the Tiger Street Food Support Fund. This fund helps hawkers to offset start up costs. Budding hawkers can apply for this fund from now till 15^th November. Successful applicants will receive up to SGD $10,000 funding from Tiger Beer!

Go Nuts for Local Businesses!

Mmm… That familiar crunchy, salty and spicy goodness of Nasi Lemak’s sambal peanut and ikan billis is no stranger to us! Tiger Beer has also collaborated with local nut brand, Camel, to bring a cool twist to this local creation.

This limited edition Nasi Lemak Sambal Flavoured Nuts can be purchased at convenience stores with a purchase of two 500ml cans of Tiger Beer. It’s available from now to 30th September 2016!

You can also indulge in this exclusive packet of nuts with a purchase of draught beer or a bucket of Tiger Beer from 1st September to 31st October 2016 at select bars and pubs.

Thank Your Hawker

Knowing the sweat and toil that each hawker goes through only makes them more admirable. The story of Mdm Wong certainly pulls at our heartstrings. However, her tale is but one in Singapore’s multitude of hawkers. Our everyday hawkers lead different lives, and face different challenges and difficulties. We’ll probably never have the privilege of being in their shoes.

The next time you receive your local street food, don’t forget to thank your hawker! For now to 8 September, also take a picture of your hawker food before you dig in! Join in the fun and upload the picture to social media. Include #uncagestreetfood, and your picture may be included in a Tiger Beer video! It’ll be a collective thank you to those who keep our great food and unique hawker culture alive.

After all, a little thanks goes a long way, and it just may be long enough to secure an enduring hawker heritage for our country.

Boutique Fairs Is Back, And It’ll Make You Say “I Do” All Over Again

Boutique Fairs returns this November for yet another round of unique and immersive shopping extravaganza!

Boutique Fairs

Happening 4th and 5th November at the F1 Pit Building, Boutiques promises to dazzle and impress with 150 vendors! A resplendent layout of products ranging from women’s to men’s and even home decor promises shoppers plenty of inspiration for this Christmas’ gift giving.

Indeed, you’ll certainly be able to find a gift for almost anyone with such a diverse and unique spread! Oh, and have we mentioned that over 80% of the vendors are socially-conscious businesses?

What sets Boutiques apart is definitely its one-of-a-kind concept: each shop is set up just like a boutique shopfront. Each storefront will be decorated with unique concepts be it chic, modern or fun! Shoppers, be transported to a whole new world when you visit each store.

The beautifully crafted products set in their gorgeous shop fronts is definitely a feast for the eyes!

With so many vendors, we’ve listed our top 9 picks that will make you say ‘I Do’ to every single product!

01: Bloesem

Those beautiful stationary flatlays can now be yours with these picture perfect notebooks and stationaries from artisan My Deer. You can also get chic home pieces and accessories here (like the gorgeous framed posters you see above!).

Otherwise, just head down for some interior inspiration! Prices start from $19 for ceramics, $65 for posters and $22 for notebooks.

Bloesem and Hill Studio have also partnered to conduct an exclusive workshop during Boutiques! Adults and kids alike can experience making personalised wall weavings, macrame knots or even Christmas ornaments.

What better way to give your home a new lease of life than with something you made yourself?

02: Domestic Objects

Remarkably well-made teepees, play tents and accessories are Domestic Object’s area of forte. Inspired by her own children’s love for hiding under things, creator Sarah Jagger started making quality tents that quickly made its way to the market.

Designed to promote imaginative play for all ages, it doesn’t help that the fabrics used are a delight to look at too! Prices for a tent ranges from $90-$240.

03: My Moniko

My Moniko is yet another admirable brand whose products are proudly made ethically. Their clutches are made from silk vintage Japanese Kimonos, and are boldly adorned with opulent colours that complement any outfit.

To produce its dazzling pattern, the design motifs are woven, hand painted or embroidered. My Moniko will also be exclusively launching Hashi, a makeup pouch, at Boutiques! Prices are $60 and up.

04: Arête Goods

Classic, modestly stylish and elegant. These are the words that describe Arête Goods. Their range of well-made products ranges from exquisite ballet flats, to leather bags and pouches. Arête Goods will also be launching a collection of 100% silk sleeved shirt dresses exclusively at Boutiques.

If you’re on the hunt for quality gifts for your girl friends or mothers, this store might just be for you!

05: Bon Vivant

Translated, the French phrase Bon Vivant literally means “one who lives well”. And indeed with these buttery handmade leather bags, who wouldn’t?

Bon Vivant is a fresh face at Boutiques and will be introducing a select range of products at the two-day fair. Prices range from $150.

06: Eck & Art

Eck & Art design studio makes incorporating a little bit of Singapore into your home classy and effortless. Their vintage-style travel posters pay tribute to popular travel posters reminiscent of the early 1900s.

The studio will be presenting new designs in their latest series at Boutiques, featuring places like Orchard Road, East Coast and Bukit Timah. Prices start from $69.

07: Italic & Bold

Italic and bold is the one stop gift destination for absolutely anyone – be it your colleagues or even your father in law! Their sleek hip flasks, tasteful hankie sets, minimalist card cases and brass cufflinks keep things practical while staying classy.

Italic and Bold will be also launching new Men’s Society sneaker cleaning kits and shoe shine sets during Boutiques. Prices start from $30.

08: Madie Moo

For the vibrant, colour loving souls, do check out Maddie Moo’s quality frocks and separates. Ethically made and designed in Bali, the fabrics are an explosion of rich colours that celebrate the youthful energy of children! Prices range from $50.

09: Style Deco

Ever wanted your home to look like those in Kinfolk magazine or Vogue Living? Well, Stylodeco makes it easy as pie with their effortlessly chic homewares!

They carry an assortment of home accessories, furniture and lighting for everyone in the family. Prices start from $10.

With such a large spread of beautiful and functional items sold at Boutiques, we don’t have to tell you twice where you should be headed for shopping this year!

Boutique Fairs shopping event is held at the F1 pit building, on 4th and 5th November.

Here Are Some Of The Most Gorgeous Photos Of Tasmania’s Lavender Farm And Southern Lights!

Located off Australia’s south coast, Tasmania is an isolated island state filled with rugged picturesque scenery.

Because it was one of the world’s major apple producers, literally the apple fruit, it became known as the “Apple Isle”. But it’s more than just an apple producer.

Just to put things in perspective, the Apple Isle (68 km²) is 95x the size of Singapore (719 km²)! Despite that, Singapore (5.5 mil) is 10x more populated than Tasmania (517k). What does this mean? Wilderness & beautiful scenery abounds in Tasmania!

Tasmania holds so many gems on its vast wild landscape that you will wanna visit over and over again! Discover why Tasmania is the new MUST visit place for a life full of wilderness!

1. This Mountain-Lake with Southern Lights

For a few days, hike through fascinating glacier-carved valleys, ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, waterfalls and more beautiful scenery. You can end your long walk at Lake St. Clair. Soak in the amazing and tranquil scenery at the deepest lake in Australia!

Even if you don’t feel fit enough for the 65 km long alpine walk, fret not. There is a variety of day walks for visitors who are looking for a great scenic hike at Cradle Mountain.

Don’t forget to look out for native wild vegetation, glacier rocks as well as the photogenic boat shed along the walk. Note that Cradle Mountain is also a hotspot to catch the spellbinding southern lights. So make this your first stop for some awesome Tasmanian wilderness!

2. Check out towering sea cliffs + more spots for Southern Lights

How does walking along one of the most spectacular coastlines, with some of the country’s tallest sea cliffs sound to you? If that’s your idea of fun, follow the Tasman coastal trail within the splendid Tasman National Park.

Discover the power of nature from the impressive rock formations at Tasman Arch. Also, try standing on the edge of the lookout to see if you can spot the bottom of the steep soaring cliffs.

Of course, this popular Tasmania nature spot is also one of the best places to see the impressive southern lights!

3. Roam freely in the largest lavender farm in the world

Many people flock to Hokkaido in summer for the pretty lavender farms. But do you know that the world’s largest commercial lavender farm is actually in northern Tasmania?

Bridestowe Lavender Estate is about a 45-minute drive from the state’s second largest city – Launceston. If you visit the Apple Isle from November to January, seize the opportunity to visit the beautiful lavender farm in full bloom.

Run through the purple lavender fields without a care in the world. Feel in heaven with the aromatic fragrance of the blooming flowers. As you roam freely on the 260-acre huge fields, capture picture-perfect shots anywhere you want.

4. Feel on cloud nine at Mount Wellington

Accessible via a short drive from Hobart CBD, Mount Wellington is one of the top wilderness spots in Tasmania. It offers fantastic bird’s eye views of southern Tasmania as well as great walking and mountain biking trails.

Literally feel on top of the world as you look down from the 1,270 m summit!

Of course, at such high altitudes, do prepare warm and windproof clothing as you ascend the summit. Surely you want to be in your best form when walking on cloud nine, don’t you?

5. See adorable native animals up close

Last but not least, how can we forget about Tasmanian wildlife? After all, you can’t be bushwalking in the marvellous national parks with your eyes closed, can you?

Look out for the Tasmanian Devil, the largest carnivous marsupial found only in the wild in Tasmania. The cute bear-like marsupial is a local pride and joy of the island state.

Besides the Tasmanian Devil, there’s a rich variety of fauna that can be found on the island. Keep your eyes open for the likes of adorable wombats, pademelon, eastern quoll as you enjoy the great walks in the numerous national parks.

Essentially, you don’t get to see them up close anywhere else except in Tasmanian wilderness!

With so many natural gems on the Apple Isle waiting for you to unveil, it’s probably hard not to fall in love with the rugged scenery! Filled with activities that will satisfy all, Tasmania certainly deserves more attention than it does now.

Rather than make repeat visits to the usual Australian cities such as Perth, Sydney or Melbourne, why not check out a different side of Australia? Create a unique Tasmanian holiday that will make you wanna live in wilderness!

Also, read Picturesque & Hidden Spots In Thailand You Must Discover Before They Get Crowded!

6 Absolutely Beautiful Spots In Singapore That You Can Actually Dive In!

Surprising to many, Singapore is not just a stopover for feasting and shopping. Do you know what we also have a range of diving sites? You probably thought that we have no marine life at all, but our research has proved us wrong!

It doesn’t matter whether you are a seasoned or novice diver, check out our list of diving sites in Singapore. Get your game on for your next adventure!

1. Sisters’ Island Marine Park

Opened to the public recently, scuba divers are now able to register to explore the underwater trails at the Sisters’ Island Marine Park. A wide range of marine life has actually been found in the waters and NParks has developed a first dive trial. It’s located at Pulau Subar Laut or the Big Sister’s Island. Divers have spotted huge seafans and many seawhips along the dive trail.

How to get there: Check out the Dive Trail schedule by NParks here.

2. Pulau Hantu

A 30-minute boat ride from Singapore, Pulau Hantu is a popular diving site for local recreational divers due to its accessibility and sheltered reefs. Pulau Hantu is made up of 2 islands, Hantu Besar and Hantu Kecil. Visitors are able to walk between the islands during its low tide season.

Although Pulau Hantu is located in close vicinity to the Pulau Bukom’s refineries, divers are able to spot rich marine life and reef collection. The high density of divers has led to some coral damage. However, it is still the best and nearest spot for diving in Singapore.

How to get there: Join one of the many dive groups that organise regular trips to Pulau Hantu.

3. Kusu Island

Unlike Pulau Hantu, the reefs of Kusu Island are not as well known to recreational divers. This island is great for divers looking for a less crowded setting. Located just 5.6km from Singapore, Kusu Island houses a 8.5 hectare holiday resort. The island is home to one of the highest densities of anemones and anemonefishes known in Singapore!

How to get there: Ferries depart daily from Marina South Pier. Prices for a two-way trip are fixed at $18 for adults and $12 for children aged 1 to 12 years old.

4. Pulau Salu

Pulau Salu is a small island located to the South of Jurong Island. The coast consists of many coral formations and is a popular spot for scuba diving. Divers would be able to see sharks, barracudas and even dolphins if you’re really lucky. However, currents here can be quite strong thus you must be an experienced diver.

How to get there: There are no scheduled ferries to the island. Charter your own private boat or join dive groups that organise trips to Pulau Salu.

5. Pulau Jong

Being a tiny island, one would not expect Pulau Jong’s waters to be filled with rich marine life and reefs. Black-tip sharks and schools of parrotfishes which are rarely seen on our reefs in Singapore are often spotted in Pulau Jong. Recently, pipefish has also been found there. It’s a new sighting and record for Singapore’s waters.

Due to its location and size, Pulau Jong’s reefs can experience strong and tricky currents of up to 3 knots. There may also be choppy waters in bad weather conditions during the monsoon season. Do check the weather before heading out to dive in Pulau Jong.

How to get there: There are no scheduled ferries to the island. Charter your own private boat or join dive groups that organise trips to Pulau Jong.

6. Labrador Reef

Labrador Reef remains as our last stretch of coral reefs on the mainland. This spot is a popular destination for students, nature lovers and recreational divers who want to explore a natural shore. Even at high tide, interesting marine life is spotted here.

As Labrador is a Nature Reserve, diving there requires the prior permission of NParks. Under NParks regulations, dives are allowed at Labrador reef, but dive trainings are not to be conducted.

How to get there: Labrador Reef is located South of the mainland island.

Nothing beats the thrill of diving in our very own Singapore waters! Call all your diving kakis and make a trip down to one of these islands. They’ll definitely amaze you!

(Header image by WaikikiDive)

Also, read There Are Wild Dolphins In Singapore’s Waters? We Did The Research & Uncovered The Spots.

There Are Wild Dolphins In Singapore’s Waters? We Did The Research & Uncovered The Spots.

There’s no doubt that dolphins are one of the most loved marine animals in the world. You may think that these beloved dolphins are only sighted around the waters of Bali or Australia. However, do you know that people have sighted dolphins in Singapore? Right in our own backyard!

There have been at least 50 sightings reported to the National University of Singapore’s Tropical Marine Science Institute (TMSI) in 2012. More than 169 dolphins were also spotted between 2008 and 2011. Species such as the Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin or pink dolphin are commonly found in Singapore’s congested southern waters. Dolphins in Singapore? Just wow!

Here are some places where you can catch a glimpse of these lovely wild dolphins in Singapore.

1. Between St John’s And Lazarus Islands

Dolphins in Singapore are spotted most frequently between St John‘s and Lazarus Islands, south of Sentosa. These wild dolphins often generate excitement on social media. The waters are calm during monsoon rains. Fishes at the nearby coral reefs attract these wild dolphins to the area for food and rest.

2. Sisters’ Islands Marine Park

Another spot to view lovely dolphins in Singapore is at Sisters Island Marine Park. Recently, in early August 2016, Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphins were spotted near the area. Being located in close proximity to one of the world’s busiest ports, the Marine Park provides a safe place for marine animals to feed and rest.

3. Between Brani Island and Sentosa

On 18 June 2016, 4 to 6 dolphins were spotted between Sentosa and Brani Island. Due to their small dorsal fins and slight pink colour, these wild dolphins in Singapore are believed to be the Indo-Pacific humpbacked (also known as pink dolphin) species. Having been sighted twice by a passer-by, one can assume that the pod of dolphins have taken up residence in Singapore’s waters!

4. East Coast Park

[caption id="attachment_13481" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Credit: Singapore’s 63 Islands. Here Are 6 Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd!

CruCycle: When Hardcore Cycling Meets A Dance Party

CruCycle is a whole new ballgame for a workout. It is indoor cycling to upbeat music! I have been going to CruCycle ever since it first opened its doors more than a year ago. To me, it’s a dance party, cue untz untz untz.

The music

Source

CruCycle has the best mixes in the house. Expect a healthy combination of the latest remixes. There’s even music that you can sing along to while pulsing it out on your bike. There are even themed rides you can sign up for – nostalgic 90s, gangsta rap etc. – you name it, they’ve done it.

The best part? The music-themed rides you can sign up for – nostalgic 90s, gangsta rap etc. – you name it, they’ve done it. Kinda feels like a party more than a workout!

The concept

CruCycle is modelled after the ever popular SoulCycle in America. Each ride is a 50-minute spin session with weights and abs in between.

CruCycle works around a “wolf pack” mentality. Everyone in class rides together to the beat of the music, leading with the right leg first.

To stay with the pack, you’re encouraged to follow the pace of the instructor and keep rhythm throughout the class. Everyone rides to the same beat, pretty cool uh.

The workout

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Most of the time you’ll be off your saddle. You’ll need a good amount of coordination to ride to the beat, especially when hand movements are implemented. The basic dance (we’re kidding!) moves include:

1. Pulse. With your hands at the top of the handle bar, you drop your elbows with each beat.
2. Push. Extend your elbows outwards to do a push up over the handle bar.
3. Tap back. Reach your bum as far back as you can, arms straight and extended.
4. Sexy corners. Swaying your body over all four corners of the bike

Of course, there’s also the killer sprints where you’ll have to be off your saddle and pushing to the finish line for eight counts, 16 counts or more. This part of the class kills me the most – that’s when it stops feeling like a dance party, and more like a workout.

But you do get a rest at the halfway mark where you get to sit back down for abs and arm workouts. 0.5kg, 1kg or 2kg – you choice. I usually go for the 1kg which can be a challenge when you’re pulsing with your arms extended for a good minute or so.

The ab workout is super effective. I never fail to feel the burn the next day!

The music distracts you from your trembling muscles. So, enjoy the break before it’s time for you to get your bum off the bike again. You’ll have to lead with the left leg for the remainder of the workout.

With such great music, CruCycle often feels like dance party more than a killer workout. However, don’t be fooled. The aching muscles at the end of the day will convince you that CruCycle is like a dance party and a workout!

CruCycle
Location? 68 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089527
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We Uncovered The Hidden Char Kway Teow Gems In Singapore. You’ll Be Surprised.

On the list of any Singaporean’s top five national food, one can undoubtedly find Char Kway Teow; because why not? Char Kway Teow is in fact, quintessentially a Singaporean dish.

Think about it, Char Kway Teow is relatively affordable (averaging $3 per plate),  full of flavours, can be quickly prepared (talk about efficiency), and is simply just shiok.

Read any article that promises a write-up for the best Char Kway Teow in Singapore, and you’ll probably recognise the same recycled popular Char Kway Teow enclaves. No.18 Zion Road, Hill Street, Circuit Road, Heng Huat, Outram Park @ Hong Lim.

For the adventurous foodies, it is simply unsatisfying to just dine at the “won’t go wrong” choices. After all, some of the greatest joy in eating is discovering surprisingly delicious and affordable food fare in uncharted territories.

At Discover SG, we did the hard work and present 10 obscure Char Kway Teow in Singapore that gives the oft-mentioned Char Kway Teow stalls a run for their money.

1. Fried Kway Teow Mee @ Seah Im Food Centre

Image Credits:

2. Chomp Chomp Char Kway Teow @ Chomp Chomp Food Centre

[caption id="attachment_12551" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credits: 20 Kensington Park Road, Chomp Chomp Food Centre, Stall 35, Singapore 557269
What Time? 4pm-12am (Daily), Closed on Alternate Tuesday
Damage Leh? SGD$3

3. Apollo Fresh Cockles Fried Kway Teow @ Marina Parade Food Centre

[caption id="attachment_12636" align="aligncenter" width="699"] Image Credits:

4. Green Sky Char Kway Teow @ Bedok Food Centre

[caption id="attachment_12559" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credits: hums and tau gey (Beansprouts) give the dish an extra crunch. Beyond the traditional Char Kway Teow with hums, there is also Seafood Char Kway Teow for the seafood lovers.

Beyond the palates, Green Sky is probably one of the most inclusive stalls on this list. Their Char Kway Teow is Halal-Certified. In keeping up with the times, Green Sky also has a FaceBook page as well.

A hidden gem indeed.

Where? 1 Bedok Road, Bedok Corner Food Centre, #01-14, Singapore 469572
What Time? 11:00 am – 9:30 pm on Mondays, 11:00 am – 9:30 pm on Tuesdays to Sundays
Damage Leh? Cockles Char Kway Teow @ SGD$3/4/5, Seafood Char Kway Teow @ $4/5

5. Dong Ji Char Kway Teow @ 51 Old Airport Road Food Centre

[caption id="attachment_12563" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credits:

6. Choon Hiang @ East Lagoon Food Village

[caption id="attachment_12610" align="aligncenter" width="699"] Image Credits: SuperAdrianMe[/caption]

The East Coast Lagoon stall has been gathering popularity in recent years for both of their popular accolade-worthy dishes, Char Kway Teow and Fried Hokkien Mee.

Although it is the Fried Hokkien Mee that is more popular at Choon Hiang, the Char Kway Teow is equally delicious. This dish is a good balance of fresh hums, aromatic wok hei, tangy eggs, and perfectly fried noodles. The East Coast Lagoon stall offers a wholesome plate of Char Kway Teow.

Choon Hiang is currently managed by FaceBook page.

At this rate, it won’t take long before the queue at Choon Hiang starts to stretch out of East Lagoon Food Village. Feast on it while the waiting time at the queue is still wait-able

Where? #01-46, East Coast Lagoon Food Village, 1220 East Coast Parkway, Singapore 440000 
What Time? 12pm-10:30pm (Daily)
Damage Leh? SGD$3/4/5

7. Lai Heng Char Kway Teow @ Shunfu Mart Food Centre

8. Ang Mo Kio Fried Kway Teow @ Ang Mo Kio Central Food Centre

[caption id="attachment_12608" align="aligncenter" width="699"] Image Credits:

9. Armenian Street Char Kway Teow @ Anchorvale Link

[caption id="attachment_12622" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credits: an active FaceBook page. The Anchorvale Link outlet certainly retains tradition in the style and taste of the Char Kway Teows, it is surely worthy of a trip.

Where? Blk 303 Anchorvale Link, Singapore 540303
What Time? 1130am-7:30pm (Friday-Wednesday), Closed on Thursdays
Damage Leh? SGD$3/4

10. Guan Kee @ Ghim Moh Market

[caption id="attachment_12614" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image Credits: Guan Kee[/caption]

Together with Dong Ji at number 5 on this list, Guan Kee is one of the highest profiled Char Kway Teow stall on this humble list. This Ghim Moh Market stall shows multiple characteristics of a hugely well known hawker stall; long queues (FaceBook page. There’s a short video that quintessentially captures the spirit of the head chef behind Guan Kee when he is not behind his wok.

Where? #01-12 Ghim Moh Road Market and Food Centre, Blk 20 Ghim Moh Road, Singapore 270020
What Time? 9am-2:30pm (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) 8am-2:30pm (Fridays and Saturdays) Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays.
Damage Leh? SGD$3/4/5

And that’s a wrap up! 10 Unfamiliar Awesome Char Kway Teows around Singapore to try! What are you waiting for? Lace up your shoes and hunt these stalls down!

(Header Image Credits: Burpples and Guan Kee’s Facebook)

Also, read [NEW] A Poke Theory Serves Up Poke Bowls That Do Not Disappoint!

[NEW] A Poke Theory Serves Up Poke Bowls That Do Not Disappoint!

New kids on the block, A Poke Theory, strongly believes that healthy food does not equate to tasteless food. Sibling duo, Joey and Vannessa, have always dreamt of starting a business together. Therefore, as foodies themselves, opening a fast food-first concept was undoubtedly the perfect plan.

A Poke Theory

Situated right in the heart of the CBD, A Poke Theory was born out of Joey’s love for roasts, and Vannessa’s passion for wholesome grub. Take a peek into their personal Instagram accounts. You’ll notice the stark difference in food preferences. Joey (@buttergoggles) lives for meat. While Vannessa (@feedvannessa) swears by fruits, vegetables, and smoothie bowls.

However, everything converges nicely to create food that is healthy without compromising on taste or ingredients.

What are poke bowls?

Poke bowls originated in Hawaii. They were once served as snacks for the fishermen who seasoned and ate the cut-offs from their catch while out at sea. Poke bowls can be closely compared to the Japanese chirashi don, where fresh sashimi is served on top of a bed of sushi rice.

The concept

At A Poke Theory, the choice is yours.

1. Start by picking a base that best suits your dietary requirements – signature sushi rice, jasmine brown rice, lemon herb quinoa, or romaine lettuce.
2. Then, choose your star of the show – salmon or tuna, with either spicy or non-spicy options.
3. Complimentary toppings include Japanese cucumber, cherry tomato, pineapple, shredded carrot, edamame, tobiko, furikake and nori flakes.
4. It’s the premium toppings that shake things up in your poke bowl. Premium toppings include Barbequed corn, lime avocado, kale chips, crispy salmon skin and roasted honey and spice cashews. If you’re lucky, you might even catch Joey’s signature roasts before they sell out. These seasonal meats are roasted on the spot in limited quantities. Be sure to snag some before everyone else does. At $1 to $2 a pop for premium toppings, you can go crazy! A tiny splurge goes a long way for a party in your mouth.

My customised poke bowl

For the love of avocado, I very predictably picked the avocado miso salmon. My additional toppings? You guessed it – more avocado and cashews!

Two words describe my poke bowl: absolutely divine. Credits don’t go to my impeccable choice in toppings. Rather, it’s the thoughtful concoction of flavours that were infused into each ingredient. Of course, the freshness of the seafood made a big difference too!

The buttery salmon blended perfectly with the creaminess of the avocado dressing. The accompanying fruits and vegetables were refreshing, and cleansed the palette well. Even though my poke bowl was on the house (Joey is an old friend from Ngee Ann Poly!), it’s safe to say that the premium ingredients are well-worth every penny.

The premium ingredients all had a little twist to their flavours – a dash of spice or a zest of tang. For someone whose record is six bowls of rice in one sitting, I have to add that I really enjoyed A Poke Theory’s signature sushi rice. Infused with garlic, chillis and seasoned with sushi vinegar, the rice is sticky. The taste of vinegar, though not as strong as your typical sushi rice – which was exactly to my liking, but otherwise highly subjective.

Sweet endings

Remember to leave room for dessert – guilt-free superfood smoothie bowls. I was spoilt for choice. Part of me wanted a refreshing smoothie bowl as I was stuffed from my poke bowl. The other part knew that I had to get either the Cacaoholic or the Maca Nutter. That’s because I usually only eat dairy-based flavours for dessert

Cacaoholic did not disappoint. The texture was akin to ice cream without the bite, or a popsicle without the structure. I especially enjoyed the raw cacao nibs that added a nice crunch to the smoothie bowl. Just had to buy a bag of roasted honey and spice cashews for the road because they were way too addictive!

All in all, A Poke Theory is a great concept. It’ll suit anyone, from the busy professionals who are looking for a delicious, easy-to-eat meal to health-conscious individuals in search of tasty alternatives, and picky eaters like myself who love a highly customisable meal.

https://www.facebook.com/apoketheory/videos/1727934657461047/

A Poke Theory
Location: 27 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069623
Website What Do You Get When You Put Burger And Japan Together? Burger King’s New Japanese Burger!