Category: Uniquely Singapore

Singapore’s First Treehouse Hotel Opens In 2023, With Pandas And Otters As Neighbours

As children, many of us probably had fantasies of living in a treehouse. If you’re like us, you may have imagined yourself swinging from vine to vine like Tarzan, and being in the wild, living amongst animals.

Soon, that fantasy may turn into a reality.

Come 2023, a brand new resort will be opening in Mandai, and it promises treehouses, elevated cabins, and cottages at the doorstep of Singapore’s wildlife parks.

Operated by luxury resort operator Banyan Tree Holdings, this will be the only hotel serving the wildlife parks in Singapore.

Can someone say ‘Jurassic Park’?

Singapore’s Wildlife Right Outside Your Window

A dream come true for animal and nature lovers alike, this resort provides an “immersive stay close to nature” with Singapore’s wildlife parks right outside your window.

There will be an estimated 400 rooms, which include low-rise cottages, elevated cabins, and treehouses!

While this much is confirmed, the project’s design will only be selected by 2018.

(Header Image Source: Mandai Park Holdings)

You’re Not Going To Need A Wallet At This New ‘Smart’ Hawker Centre At Jurong West

Yishun step aside, Jurong West has gotten its own ‘smart’ hawker centre.

Located at Jurong West Street 61, next to Pioneer Mall, this 500-seater ‘smart’ hawker centre has 34 food stalls and a 14-stall wet market.

This is Singapore’s 2nd “smart” hawker centre after Yishun Park Hawker Centre.

A Smarter Hawker Centre

Jurong Hawker Centre has self-payment kiosks that accept cash. It also offers 8 other cashless payment options such as Apple Pay, Paywave and EZ Link Payment.

Diners also get to enjoy free wi-fi.

The food centre also has 3 tray-collecting robots to increase the efficiency of clearing tables and also to help diners who might not be able to carry their tray to the Tray Return Area.

Keeping Hawker-Fare At Hawker Prices

Aside from being a ‘smart’ hawker, this hawker centre is managed on a not-for-profit basis.

As such, each cooked food stall in this complex sells 2 regular-portion dishes at $2.80, ensuring there is a cheap option at every stall.

With 34 different hawker stalls, there is no shortage of variety and cuisines for diners to choose from.

The hawker centre will also be used to host community activities such as fairs, flea markets and music performances, in an effort to make it a natural gathering place for residents to dine and bond.

Also read You Can Jalan Jalan Down Memory Lane At This Nostalgic Festival Of Eats And Treats

(Header Image Source: Ekfigo Chua Facebook)

You Can Jalan Jalan Down Memory Lane At This Nostalgic Festival Of Eats And Treats

Singapore has changed so much within a short amount of time.

We’ve grown Smarter, our food (and palate) has grown fancier, and we’ve had international acts grace our shores and give us some amazing performances. But every now and then, it’s good to take a moment to remember the past, to reminisce simpler times, and to delight in the simple things that make us who we are.

“Let’s Go Jalan Jalan” is a food and music festival that brings all the most iconic things about Singapore – both new and old – to one place.

Happening from 17 – 19 Nov, this three-day event will take place at the nostalgic The Three Peacocks @ Labrador Park and will feature over 100 varieties of food and merchandise stalls.

The best part? Entry to this festival is free!

Made In Singapore

Expect popular local cuisines such as Ice Blended Rainbow Dash, Rickshaw Noodles, traditional “You Tiao” with soya bean drink, the old school ice cream uncle, and more!

There will also be sand art, rubber water colour art, and glitter art – a fun throwback to back when we were kids!

Harking back to simpler times, there will be henna stalls, stalls selling handcrafted ware, and a creative heritage trail!

The soundtrack to this festival will be provided by buskers and up-and-coming singers. Look out for performances by Alan Fong, Nick Shen and his Teochew Opera Crew!

Leave Your Wallets At Home

At this festival, only old-school Festival Coupons and Ezi Wallet payments can be used to purchase food, beverage and merchandise.

Food coupons can be purchased online at Image Credit: Let’s Go Jalan Jalan Facebook[/caption]

Only one bag may be claimed per customer and only while stocks lasts, so act quickly!

With free shuttle buses available at Labrador Park MRT and at Seah Im Carpark open space (nearby Harbourfront MRT), getting there will be a cinch.

The event is pet-friendly and wheelchair-friendly, so bring your ah ma, ah gong, and even your furry ones to this festival come November! You’re sure to have a good ol’ time at this chill, hyper-local extravaganza!

Let’s Go Jalan Jalan
Address: The Three Peacocks @ Labrador Park, 8 Port Road, Singapore 117540
Date: 17 – 19 Nov
Time: 17 Nov: 5pm – 12.30am | 18 Nov: 10am – 12.30am | 19 Nov: 10am – 12.30am
Admission: Free
Website

Also read This Thai Bakery Is Baking Up A Storm Of Fluffy Loaves – And You Knead To Try It

21Moonstone Lets You Revisit Your Youth With Arcade Games, Cheap Booze, And Old School Snacks

Singapore has seen its fair share of bars situated in odd locations, from Smoke & Mirrors, the rooftop bar at the National Gallery Singapore, to The Library, which is hidden behind a bookcase.

Enter 21Moonstone, a bar located on the 9th floor of an old office building.

Situated on the 9th floor of Poh Leng Building at 21 Moonstone Lane (hence the name), this space is a creative co-working studio by day and a beer house by night – at least on Fridays and Saturdays.

A drastic change of pace from the trendy bars and swanky watering holes of Singapore, this bar is laidback and arty.

Think: exposed ceilings, mismatched lights, furniture, floorboards, art scattered around the space, and a giant traditional Chinese signboard!

Did you know most of the resources here are crowdsourced or donated by users of the space?

If you need some air, there is also outdoor seating (and standing) for you and your friends to make yourselves at home.

Great Minds Think Alike

21Moonstone was the brainchild of 4 friends who realised that they needed a communal space not just to work at but to hang out at.

Founded by Yang Er Tan, Jeremy Lim, Vincent Ho, and Narelle Kheng (of The Sam Willows!), each of them brings their own experience and knowledge to the table.

Welcoming freelancers, artists, photographers, and other creative minds, their intention is to establish a safe space for exchanging and generating new ideas.

Where Artistry Meets Celebrity

Considering that one of 21Moonstone’s founders is a celebrity in her own right, the place is no stranger to celebrities.

Drop by for some good, cheap alcohol, and who knows? You may even bump into some familiar faces!

21Moonstone is all about creating a casual setting for big groups of friends to chill and unwind. There’s even an old school arcade machine and card games you and your party can help yourselves to!

21Moonstone’s menu is straightforward, with a trim list of beers, ciders and a secret food menu.

You can’t go wrong with a bottle of Asahi ($8 per bottle) beer. If you’re looking for a change, we hear the Westmalle Trappist Dubbel ($12 per bottle) is founder Jeremy Lim’s personal favourite.

If you get the munchies, the bar offers old school snacks such as Muruku Ikan and Super Ring. Comfort foods such as nachos, seaweed chicken and luncheon meat are also available!

Because most of the food served here are simple finger foods, we recommend you come after dinner. Otherwise, there’s a good Fishhead Steamboat/Tze Char place downstairs called Tian Wai Tian where you can fill your stomachs before you go to 21Moonstone.

A low-key bar that’s big on good vibes, end your week on a good note at 21Moonstone!

21Moonstone
Address: 21 Moonstone Lane, Poh Leng Building, #09-01, Singapore 328426
Opening Hours: Fri – Sat: 8pm – 12am
Contact no.: 9187 0898
Website

Also read Laneway Festival Singapore 2018 Reveals Lineup Including The War On Drugs, Wolf Alice, And More

(Header Image Source: @jemplify)

There’s A Superhero Themed Cyclothon Happening In Singapore And All Are Welcome

Many Singaporeans will probably have noticed that in the past couple of years, it’s been fun runs galore here on our little red dot.

While each run has had its own unique draw, from loud, pumping music, to cartoon character themes, runs just aren’t for everyone.

Sure, there may be plenty of things to keep you distracted from the fact that you’re running, but the relatively short 5K can still be quite the challenge, especially for those of us who haven’t done any kind of physical activity in a long time.

If running isn’t your cup of tea, there’s another sporting event happening soon – and at this one, you’ll have a couple of wheels to help you out.

The annual OCBC Cycle is back.

Happening from 18 – 19 November, OCBC Cycle is Singapore’s most happening cycling event. An event that brings together cyclists young and old, from the greenest to the most seasoned, everyone is welcome to be a part of this cycling fiesta.

OCBC Cycle 2017 has something for everyone, with 3 riding categories for people who just want to have a good time. The best part? This year’s event will be graced by superheroes.

Ride With Friends

A Super Hero-themed ride, come dressed in your favourite Marvel or DC heroes and heroines! Better yet, come dressed like famous superhero (or supervillain) duos like Batman and Robin, Professor X and Magneto, or the Joker and Harley Quinn, with your partner or your bestie.

You can even go all out and pimp your ride with superhero elements – just make sure it doesn’t become a hazard when you cycle! Capes can be especially dangerous for cycling superheroes.

The best dressed person with the most fearless getup will get to walk away with a Casio EXILIM EX-FR100 Action Cam (worth $629) that’s perfect for capturing action-packed outings like these.

A scenic route that will take you past some of the most iconic landmarks of Singapore, including the other-worldly Singapore Sports Hub, majestic Supertrees at Gardens By The Bay, and the Marina Bay Sands, make sure to take in all the sights as you cruise through this 23km route.

Ride With Family

Want to spend some quality time with the family?

The Mighty Savers® Kids and Family Ride guarantees a great time for even the youngest of the pack.

Themed ‘Bubbly Fun’, the route comprises zones that will be filled with bubbles by bubble blowing machines. The kids are sure to have a ball with the bubbles, popping them as they cycle!

If you’d like to take it easy and go for a leisurely ride, go for The Corporate Bike Ride. Pick between the 23km The Straits Time Ride and the 42km The Sportive Ride, and take on the city with a group of at least 15 cyclists!

Amp up the team spirit and ditch the event jersey in favour of one of your own company tees. Deck yourselves in your company colours, make post-cyclothon dinner plans, and make a day of it!

After all, the company that plays together, stays together.

Gear Up For OCBC Cycle 2017

Sticking with the cycling theme, the OCBC 2017 participation medal comes in the form of 1/3 of a stylized bicycle gear.

Wear it around your neck like a badge of honour once you’ve finished OCBC Cycle 2017. If you come back for subsequent editions of the OCBC Cycle in 2018 and 2019, you can combine the 3 pieces to form a complete gear!

Don’t have a bike of your own? Don’t worry, you can rent yourself a bike for this event! Some reliable places to get your bikes are T.K.H Leisure, Cycle To The Park, S-Lite Event Support and more. With these bike rental services readily available, finding a bike to ride with should be the least of your worries!

If you know you’re long overdue for some exercise, or just like sweating it out with like-minded people, register for OCBC Cycle 2017 here! And make sure to take your best pals along because everything is better when you do it with a friend!

OCBC Cycle 2017
Venue: Singapore Sports Hub 
Date: 18 – 19 Nov 
Website

Also read Someone Finally Opened A Durian Specialty Cafe, And It Serves More Than The Typical Puffs And Cakes

(Header Image Source:

Someone Finally Opened A Durian Specialty Cafe, And It Serves More Than The Typical Puffs And Cakes

Love them or hate them, durians are Singapore’s national fruit; unofficially, at least.

A fruit that is beloved for its sweet, creamy flesh that melts in your mouth, few varieties can match the almighty Mao Shan Wang variety when it comes to flavour.

A nice mix of sweet and bitter – and sometimes, both – it’s no wonder Mao Shan Wang durians are the most popular among Singaporeans.

Simply called Mao Shan Wang Cafe, this durian specialty cafe is opened by Four Seasons Durian.

Situated in Chinatown, it serves fresh durian in a tantalising array of desserts including mochi, strudel, ice cream and coffee (yes, coffee) made using the king of fruit.

The First And Only Durian Specialty Cafe in Singapore

Considering the fanaticism this fruit inspires, it’s a wonder it’s taken this long for someone to open a durian specialty cafe.

Step into the cafe and you’ll be welcomed by the strong, unmistakable smell of durian – a heavenly scent for hardcore durian fans.

With a simple, industrial aesthetic featuring brick walls and exposed beam ceilings, this cafe is the perfect place for an mid-day tea durian break.

The King And Its Subjects

If you think there are only so many things you can do with durian, think again – this cafe takes the fruit in both sweet and savoury directions.

On the sweet – and more familiar – side of things, there are durian puffs, ice cream, pancakes and mochi.

On a sweltering hot day, order the Mao Shan Wang Delight ($15.80).

Consisting of a mountain of Mao Shan Wang durian soft serve ice cream, this dessert comes on a bed of brownies, with mini marshmallows and almond flakes scattered all over it.

If you’re looking for a light bite, opt for either the D24 Durian Mochi ($5 for four) or the richer Mao Shang Wang Durian Mochi ($8.80 for four). Encased in a chewy mochi skin, the D24 mochi has a milder flavour while the Mao Shan Wang Mochi packs more of a punch with each mouthful.

On the savoury side of things, there is the Black Charcoal Mao Shan Wang Durian Pizza ($18.80), which consists of a charcoal pizza base topped with a mixture of Mao Shan Wang puree and cheese.

If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try their Durian French Fries ($3.80) and Durian Nuggets ($6).

With fries and nuggets served with a dipping sauce made of D24 puree, your tastebuds are in for an unusual experience when you order yourself a serving of either of these.

Craving some durian? Whatever you’re in the mood for, your needs will be well taken care of at Mao Shan Wang Cafe!

Mao Shan Wang Cafe
Address: 49 Temple Street Singapore
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 1.30pm – 10pm; Sat: 11am – 10pm; Closed on Sun
Contact no.: 6221 2338 
Website

Also read Teppei Syokudo Is Releasing Self-Heating Bento Boxes And It’s Like We’re Living in The Future

(Header Image Source: Burpple User Dex Neo, 

According To Google Autocomplete, Singaporeans Are Freebie-Loving And… Selfish?

Have you ever tried to google yourself? Just to see what Google says about you? Or to check up on what people who share your name are up to all over the world?

Well today, we’re googling Singaporeans, on behalf of Singaporeans. Because self-awareness is important.

So, let’s dive in and see what Google thinks about Singaporeans!

Google Says:

Okay, right off the bat, the search suggestions are already negative. That’s encouraging.

To be fair, we do walk really fast. Look at our public transport crowds during peak hours, speeding up and down escalators with such nimbleness.

I realise that I developed a fast-walking habit which is really prominent when I go on holidays. It gets so bad to the point where my mother thinks that I’m embarrassed to walk with her.

Truth is, I just find it really hard to slow down because I only have 1 speed setting. Sorry Mummy.

Things got deep for a second there. Are we truly happy? Why are we here? What is the purpose of life? Philosophy aside, Singapore is considered the most expensive city to live in, so we have some of the richest people in the world living here, though I wouldn’t really say that most of us are rich.

Are Singaporeans racist? Racial Harmony is important and friendship is nice. Peace, Love and Vegetables.

Why would you want to vote in the UK elections if you’re Singaporeans? Who’s actually googling these things? I am perplexed. Also, no, Singaporeans don’t speak a single word of English. Clearly.

Honestly, if you want to migrate or study overseas, just do it. Live your dreams.

Personally, I feel that Singlish isn’t something to be proud of. It’s great for casual conversations and daily interactions but not for official business. But that’s just me.

All I can say to the suggestions above is, YES. We like all of the above. Convenience is understood because everyone is innately lazy. Freebies and queueing go hand-in-hand because we queue for freebies. We’re very hardworking when it comes to freebies. Free Castella cakes, for example.

Google seems to have painted a rather distinct image of Singaporeans. We’re somewhat unhappy, speak English and Singlish, like to queue, like free things, and like convenience. Sounds like a typical city dweller to me.

This has been incredibly enlightening. I’m glad I know how to be a proper Singaporean now.

Also read: BAKE Is Warming Up The Oven Again, And They’re Serving A Zesty Twist On Their Classic Cheese Tarts

Teppei Syokudo Is Releasing Self-Heating Bento Boxes And It’s Like We’re Living in The Future

In July this year, there was a Chinese brand, Ba Shu Lan Ren, which was selling self-heating “Lazy” Ma La Hotpot.

This innovative meal comes with its own heating pack which reacts with water to generate enough heat to cook a small container of food.

Teppei Syokudo’s Hot New Creation

Teppei Syokudo is a casual dining concept brought to you by the same people who founded Teppei Restaurant. They are popular for their fuss-free, customisable Kaisen Dons which are a hit with Chirashi Don and Sashimi lovers.

Fast forward to 27 September, Teppei Syokudo is releasing their own series of self-heating bentos which utilise the same heating pack concept.

Out Of The Kitchen And Into Your Belly

There are 4 types of bentos: the Gyu Don ($15.80), Oyako Don ($12.80), Minced Meat Mapo Tofu Don ($12.80) and the Napolitan Pasta With Hamburg ($15.80).

Instead of the usual vacuum-packed ingredients, these bentos come ready to eat. All you have to do is prepare the heating pack and water.

The heating pack will take only 5 minutes to heat up the bento, so you don’t have to wait long to dig in!

For those of you who are fans of their Kaisen Don, do give these self-heating bentos a try. They can be ordered at any Teppei Syokudo outlet in Singapore. They definitely look more appetising than a microwaveable meal from a convenience store.

Also read Because Teh Is Better Than Kopi, Here Are All The Ways To Show Your Loyal-teh

(Header Image Source: Burpple User Joe Yang)

Because Teh Is Better Than Kopi, Here Are All The Ways To Show Your Loyal-teh

You don’t have to be a connoisseur to appreciate the wonder that is Teh. Or tea, as regular (read: non-Singaporean) people call it.

Teh is a lifeblood of Singapore, alongside it’s more caffeinated counterpart, Kopi (Coffee).

A local classic, Teh has many variations. Teh Tarik, Teh Halia, Teh Ais, Teh C, Teh O, the list goes on. But the frothy goodness of Teh Tarik trumps all. This “pulled” concoction of milk and tea is always a welcome beverage in every Singaporean meal.

Since Kopi already has its own life-sized bag, we refuse to let Teh lose out to this hype.

So, to demonstrate our love for this magical drink, we have compiled a list of Teh-related thingamabobs so you too can show your love for Teh!

Teh Cream Of Teh Crop

1. This Teh Tarik Graphic T-Shirt

Words cannot describe how badly I want this shirt. I am torn between framing this shirt up and wearing it 24/7. A genuine Teh Tarik-themed shirt is everything I never knew I needed.

2. Teh Best Postcard and Greeting Card

These are the only acceptable greeting cards/postcards to send to anyone. Hallmark, stand aside. Teh is the way to go.

3. Teh Tarik Iron On Patch and Sticker Patch

I am probably going to iron this on every shirt, shorts, pants, bag, fabric, curtain, towel and tablecloth that I own. I will build this Teh shrine. Watch me (Don’t quote me on that).

4. The Teh Peng Pin

I am crying tears of joy. This pin is beautiful. A Teh Peng pin? It’ll sit perfectly on my backpack. Or any tote, case, or makeup pouch. Check out the detail on the ice cubes.

5. Kopitiam Brooch (Teh and Teh Bao)

If you think that this brooch does not go with any formal attire, you are entitled to your wrong opinion. Because Kopitiam culture is the best culture.

6. Kopitiam Keychain (Teh Peng)

These quirky little trinkets come in the form of various food options from Teh, Kopi, Bandung, Milkmaid condensed milk to Laksa, Mee Pok Dry and Chicken Rice. Do you know which one I want? Guess.

7. Kopitiam Magnet (Teh Bao)

(Header Image Source: Carnival Munchies)

Ramen Keisuke May Be Lobster and Tonkotsu King, Bak Kut They Bring Ramen To Another Level?

Any Singaporean who claims to love his ramen will surely be no stranger to Ramen Keisuke.

The biggest ramen chain in Singapore, Ramen Keisuke is known for its creative approach towards ramen, and for creating ramen recipes that stray from the typical.

With several ramen concept outlets under its belt, including Lobster King, Tonkotsu King and Kani King, each boasting its own unique ramen flavours, customers can always look forward to a tasty, flavourful bowl of ramen whenever they walk into a Ramen Keisuke outlet.

A Local Spin On Ramen

The beloved ramen chain has recently launched a new ramen flavour, and this time, it’s delightfully local.

We’ll give you a hint: it’s herbal and some like it with loads of white pepper.

Yes, Ramen Keisuke’s new ramen flavour is Bak Kut Teh.

From the looks of the image they posted to their Facebook page, the ramen comes complete with a bunch of pork ribs. After all, can you call it Bak Kut Teh Ramen without some bak kut?

The brand new flavour was born out of a collaboration between Singapore Tourism Board and Japan, and only 15 bowls of this ramen are made and sold everyday.

And there’s more bad news to follow – unfortunately, this ramen is currently only available in Japan and until 30 September.

Hope Is Not Lost

Already, Singaporeans are asking Ramen Keisuke to bring the flavour onto our shores. After all, who better than us to appreciate the unique Bak Kut Teh flavour?

In response, Ramen Keisuke has teased that it may be bringing the local-inspired ramen to its Singapore outlets.

We don’t know about you but we are definitely keeping our fingers crossed for the Bak Kut Teh Ramen to make its appearance here in Singapore. And hopefully, they will be serving a lot more than just 15 bowls a day.

Also read 10 Exciting Events And Eats That Will Wake You Up Before September Ends [16-30 Sep]