Tis’ The Season To Be Hungry – How To Have The Perfect Christmas Meal Without The Hassle

Novotel Christmas

Christmas season is upon us, which means that we’re most likely going to drop the diets we never really got on board with and indulge in some good ol’ Christmas food.

That’s right — from log cake to potatoes to roast hams, few foods make us feel more warm and fuzzy inside.

Not everyone can cook a turkey without the risk of setting their kitchens on fire, though, and that’s where Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore On Stevens comes in.

Season’s Eatings

[caption id="attachment_38392" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

For a fuss-free Christmas meal, the Food Exchange Festive Buffet at Novotel Singapore On Stevens might be worth checking out.

Available for both lunch (12pm-2:30pm) and dinner (6pm-10pm), this seasonal special adds several Christmas classics on top of the hotel’s existing international buffet.

[caption id="attachment_38393" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38395" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38396" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Before we get into the festive stuff, however, special mention needs to be made for the “international” part. I’ve been to my fair share of international buffets, but the one at Novotel Singapore on Stevens really is as varied as it gets.

[caption id="attachment_38400" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38398" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38397" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

From local delicacies like popiah and chilli crab (mantou‘s included, of course) to international offerings such as sushi and seafood, this buffet has all that and more. I’d highly recommend not eating anything beforehand, because you’re going to need one big appetite to sample everything that’s available.

[caption id="attachment_38390" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

On the festive side of things, you can look forward to Gravlax (a Scandinavian salmon-based appetiser), Honey Studded Ham, and — of course — Roast Turkey. Throw in an equally-diverse selection of desserts that include log cake, lemon meringue and pecan pie, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to eat your way into the Christmas mood.

[caption id="attachment_38399" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38391" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

At this point you might be thinking that all this must come at a premium price, but the Food Exchange Festive Buffet is actually quite affordable.

Lunch on weekdays and Saturday cost $42++ and $52++ respectively, while a dinner session on both weekdays and weekends goes for $68++. As far as buffet prices go (hotel ones, no less), that’s a pretty fair price when you consider the spread you’re getting.

Available For Dabao Too

[caption id="attachment_38401" align="alignnone" width="4798"]NovotelChristmas Image Credit: Novotel Singapore On Stevens And Mercure Singapore On Stevens[/caption]

If you’re planning on staying in to get away from the Christmas crowds, you’ll be glad to know that Mercure Singapore On Stevens offers takeaway options as well.

Traditionalists can spring for the Traditional Roast Turkey (6kg, $128), Honey Studded Gammon Ham (7kg, $88) or Australian Roast Ribeye Beef (5kg, $98), but I’d personally recommend getting the Salmon Coulibiac (2kg, $98).

[caption id="attachment_38394" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Novotel Christmas Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

A French dish that has Salmon (duh), eggs and mashed potatoes wrapped in a crispy pastry crust, this is pretty much a complete meal in every bite. Bring this to any Christmas pot luck (or keep the whole thing for yourself, we won’t judge), and you’re sure to be the MVP of the party.

You can opt to collect your treats at Mercure Singapore On Steven’s Fudebar, or have it delivered right to your doorstep for $30. Complimentary delivery is available for orders over $200, so it might want to order more than one dish to be eligible for that (you can never have too much Christmas food, after all).

Whether you’re looking for an indulgent night out or planning an intimate xmas party, it looks like Novotel Singapore on Stevens and Mercure Singapore On Stevens have got your food needs covered this Christmas season.

Even if you can cook a turkey without setting your kitchen on fire, making your own food can be a messy affair…so why not treat yo’self a little this festive season?

Novotel Singapore On Stevens and Mercure Singapore On Stevens
Address: 28 Stevens Road, Singapore 257878

Website I Facebook I Reservations (Buffet) I Orders (Takeaway)

Also Read Don’t Fight With The Crowd This NYE – Catch A Fireworks Musical From Japan At The Marina Bay Floating Platform

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Need A Quick Workout? This Bouldering Gym In The CBD Lets You Sweat It Out From $30/Entry

My arms are sore and my ankle is about to give way. Yet I can’t let go. Not unless I want to free fall three metres or so on to the, admittedly, cushy crash pad below – but I’m too much of a wimp to do that.

I’m halfway through a bouldering problem in Boulder Movement and despite the aches, I can already see the appeal of this sport. Bouldering is very much like rock climbing, except the former is stripped down to its bare essentials –  no ropes and no harness to break your fall. All you need is a good pair of climbing shoes, a bag of chalk and a whole lot of guts to take on the bouldering problem.

For someone who is deathly afraid of heights, I thought, “this is not going to end well.”

[caption id="attachment_38376" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]boulder movement Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Climb To A Better You

Climbing has hit new heights in Singapore as more people are getting into the physically challenging sport, thanks to a growing number of commercial climbing facilities sprouting up across the island.

Initially thought of as ‘dangerous’ and only for the adrenaline junkies, it’s quickly catching on as the activity of choice for the regular folk looking for an exciting alternative to getting that much sought after full body workout.

[caption id="attachment_38382" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]boulder movement Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Conveniently located 5 minutes from Tanjong Pagar MRT, Boulder Movement is the one and only climbing gym that is located in the CBD. Founded by a group of friends who are climbing enthusiasts, the gym positions itself as a beginner-friendly (we tested it!) bouldering facility with over 30 metres of wall lengthwise with 100 square metres of climbing surface.

The walls are no higher than 4 metres which sounds short, but trust us, it’s certainly high enough to experience the thrill of climbing without any safety gears.

[caption id="attachment_38377" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]boulder movement Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

The bouldering problems are categorised by different climbing abilities: White tags 1-6 are for beginners, Blue tags 7-15 for intermediates and Pink tags 16-27+ are for the advanced. They refresh the climbs every week (at least 14 new problems) so you’ll always find new challenges waiting for you!

[caption id="attachment_38380" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]boulder movement Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

For first timers, you can sign up for the Basics of Bouldering class which is a 60 minute crash course to get you acquainted with the sport. There are also foundational classes for those with prior climbing experience looking to refine their upper and lower body techniques before moving on to the intermediate classes.

[caption id="attachment_38384" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]boulder movement Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

As the name suggests, Boulder Movement is about more than just bouldering; it’s about the lifestyle and the ‘movement’ that comes with it. The vibe and overall atmosphere of the gym embodies their spirit of being a fun and inclusive space. Not to mention, they have excellent shower facilities and changing rooms so you can wash up comfortably before heading back out in the CBD area.

Entry to the Boulder Movement starts from $30 and $250 for 10 entry passes. However if you’re new to the bouldering scene, sign up for the Class passes as the Boulder Movement instructors will guide you through the basics and fundamentals of bouldering. You can also check out their rates here.

For someone who has never done bouldering before due to preconceptions that it was too tough and scary, I was proven completely wrong. After guidance from the instructors, I was able to progress a few levels over the course of the evening. If you’re looking for a quick workout after work, Boulder Movement is a great place to start your bouldering journey and get your sweat on!

Boulder Movement
Address: 6A Shenton Way #B1-03, OUE Downtown Gallery, Singapore 068815
Opening Hours: Mon: 5pm – 10pm | Tues – Fri: 11am – 10pm | Sat & Public Hols: 9am – 9pm | Sun: 9am – 5pm
Contact No.: 
6817 8341
Tiong Bahru Bakery Takes A Walk On The Wild Side With A Safari-Themed Cafe In Dempsey

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

Roast Paradise Guys Opened A Zi Char Restaurant At Somerset And It’s ‘Fook Kin’ Good

Fook Kin

If you’ve been to Old Airport Road Food Centre in the past year or so, chances are that you’ve heard about Roast Paradise.

Started by two friends – Randall and Kai – in 2016, these young hawkerpreneurs have quickly made a name for themselves thanks to their Kuala Lumpur-style char siew and siu yoke / roast pork, and the stall attracts long, long queues at pretty much any time of the day.

And after setting up a second outlet in Ang Mo Kio, the pair have now brought their food to central Singapore in the form of the cheekily-named restaurant Fook Kin.

‘Fook Kin’ Good Food

[caption id="attachment_38318" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Conveniently located at 111 Killiney Road (a 5-minute walk from Somerset MRT, according to Google Maps), Fook Kin is a collaboration between Roast Paradise and local DJ royalty The Muttons.

[caption id="attachment_38324" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38325" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Featuring an Instagrammable, Wong Kar Wai-esque aesthetic (think marble tables, graffiti and neon lights in all the right places), the restaurant offers Roast Paradise’s Signature Char Siew and Roast Pork, while adding several zi char-style dishes to the menu as well.

[caption id="attachment_38319" align="alignnone" width="6000"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

These dishes aren’t the kind you’d find at your standard coffee shop, though. The Triple Happiness ($9.80) for example, adds salmon roe and salted egg bits on top of Pitan / Century Egg Tofu, creating a refreshing-yet-flavourful appetiser that serves as a perfect accompaniment to Fook Kin’s meatier offerings.

[caption id="attachment_38321" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Those looking for a more traditional dish can also consider the Two Way Kai Lan ($9.80), which — as its name suggests — serves the classic vegetable in two styles on one plate. While one half is more or less your standard braised-in-oyster-sauce fare (still delish, btw), the other is fried and sprinkled with a generous amount of pork floss for a crispy and satisfying bite.

Of course, you can’t go to Fook Kin without eating their meat, and the restaurant has added roast duck on top of the Roast Paradise classics for even more freedom of choice.

[caption id="attachment_38320" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Those looking for a simple meal can opt for the one-meat Roast Delight ($8.80), while more indulgent patrons can go for the titular Roast Paradise ($10.80) that includes all three meats. Served with either rice or noodles and throwing in a Shoyu egg for good measure, you’re guaranteed a hearty meal no matter which option you choose.

At this point you might be wondering: how does Fook Kin’s meat compare to the original Roast Paradise? Well, considering that Randall has now made Fook Kin his main base of operations (he has trusted employees running the Old Airport Road and Ang Mo Kio outlets), you’re actually getting the quintessential Roast Paradise experience.

[caption id="attachment_38323" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Thanks to a painstaking preparation process that takes a whopping 4 hours every day, both the char siew and siu yoke are truly a step above the rest. The char siew was incredibly tender and had a distinctively sweet taste to it, while the siu yoke was probably the crispiest and most savoury that I’ve had in my entire life.

The roast duck — while serviceable — just isn’t as mind-blowing as the other two. If we had to choose between the three, I’d recommend going for either the char siew or siew yoke before springing for the duck.

[caption id="attachment_38332" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

If the meat in your rice / noodle bowl isn’t enough (and believe me, it won’t be enough), you’ll be glad to know that you can order a meat platter as well. Ranging from $6.80 to $65 for a small and extra large serving respectively, this is the perfect choice if you’re coming here with a group of friends…or just really hungry. We won’t judge.

[caption id="attachment_38322" align="alignnone" width="6000"]Fook Kin Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

With its convenient location and mouth-watering menu, Fook Kin is definitely the place to be if you want to up your zi char game. Sure, it might be a tad more expensive than…say, a coffee shop, but for the quality you’re getting, it’s definitely well worth the price.

FOOK KIN
Address: 111 Killiney Road, Singapore 239553
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 9:30pm

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Also Read: 10 Affordable Dinner Date Spots In S’pore So You Can Treat Your Bae Without Going Broke

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

Japan’s Favourite Chocolate Cake By Ken’s Cafe Tokyo Is Coming To S’pore On 1 Dec

Tucked away in the Shinjuku neighbourhood, Ken’s Cafe Tokyo is lauded by many for one thing: their gâteau au chocolat (French Chocolate Cake), prized for its soft, decadent and melt-in-your-mouth richness.

And trying to get your hands on their cake is like trying to buy a Hermès Birkin bag. You have to reserve your cakes in advance with waiting times that can stretch up to 3 months long.

If you’re wondering what’s all the fuss about this famous chocolate cake coming to our shores, let us tell you why.

[caption id="attachment_38296" align="aligncenter" width="679"] Image Credit: Shogyokai Online[/caption]

Most Popular Chocolate Cake In Japan

Each bar of gâteau au chocolat weighs approximately 280g, and is made with super atas ingredients that we can only dream of trying. Ken’s Cafe uses a customised blend of Domori grand cru chocolate with 70% cacao, Japanese unsalted butter, and eggs that have “mukashi no aji“, which means “a nostalgic flavour from the past” – it’s supposed to have an ‘eggier’ flavour than the average egg. Best part, it’s gluten-free!

[caption id="attachment_38298" align="aligncenter" width="679"] Image Credit: Shogyokai Online[/caption]

What you get is a rich and chocolatey cake, and they can also be savoured in 3 ways: a dense Terrine Chocolat at room temperature, a creamy Chocolate Ganache when chilled in the refrigerator, and a molten Fondant Chocolat when heated slightly in the microwave!

With long waiting times and reviews describing the cake as “addictive” and “overwhelmingly delicious”, it is no wonder Ken’s Cafe was ranked Japan’s #1 chocolate store on Tabelog (a Japanese crowd-sourced restaurant review website).

[caption id="attachment_38295" align="aligncenter" width="1834"] Image Credit: @kushidaryu[/caption]

Previously only produced exclusively in Ken’s Cafe Tokyo, the cakes will be available in Singapore on 1st December. While they aren’t made by the founder Chef Kenji Ujiie himself, they will be prepared by Chef Ito from Watanabe Coffee, who studied directly under the man himself!

So mark your calendars for 1st December and make sure to head down early because there’ll only be a limited quantity of just 20 cakes available every day! Each slice will cost $8, while an entire cake will retail at $48.15 (280g).

Watanabe Coffee
Address: #01-01 Isetan Scotts Shaw House, 350 Orchard Road, Singapore 238868
Opening Date: 30 November 2018
Contact No.: 6235 0608
Website

Also Read Renowned Japanese Chef Teppei Opens First Halal Eatery Serving Fukuoka’s Famous Udon

(Header Image Source: @nuttnutty)

Tiong Bahru Bakery Takes A Walk On The Wild Side With A Safari-Themed Cafe In Dempsey

Tiong Bahru Bakery has done it again. The local pastry and bakery stalwart, famed for their French Croissants, has opened its fifth outlet – a safari-themed space nestled in the lush surrounds of Dempsey.

There may not be any wild animals here, unless you count the illustrations and cushion prints, but there are chickens and bunnies on site!

If you’re planning your next trip to an African Safari, you can finally do so at TBB Safari – a 46 seater cafe serving rainbow lattes and power breakfast jars.

[caption id="attachment_38277" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]tbb safari Image Credit: Tiong Bahru Bakery[/caption]

No Wild Animals Here

Following a trip to Selinda Camp and Gomoti Plains Camp in Botswana, founder Cynthia Chua made use of the previously underutilised space in front of farm-to-table restaurant Open Farm Community. Where there once was an alfresco dining area now sits TBB Safari, with an all new, specially designed wooden gazebo and eco-friendly Airbitat coolers set at 25 degrees to regulate the temperature.

Being outdoors may sound cool in theory to some but not when you’re sweating in Singapore’s sweltering heat. Surrounded by Dempsey’s lush greenery, you can connect with nature in maximum comfort.

[caption id="attachment_38278" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]tbb safari Image Credit: Tiong Bahru Bakery[/caption]

Inspired by her trip to Botsawana, she decked out the cafe with flat-woven kilim rugs, framed butterfly taxidermy and custom-made wooden tables. For a semi-alfresco space, the pseudo-campsite is nothing short of cosy. It’s the perfect glamping experience minus the mosquitoes and heat.

Exclusive to Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari are anti-inflammatory caffeine-free drinks. The Turmeric & Ginger Latte ($6.50) and Beetroot & Ginger Latte ($6.50) are smooth, warm options perfect for a rainy day. You can also switch out the milk for soy or almond nut milk at no extra charge.

[caption id="attachment_38276" align="aligncenter" width="1222"]tbb safari Image Credit: Tiong Bahru Bakery[/caption]

TBB’s signature pastries and breads are also available at the new outlet, along with some Safari-exclusive items. Crafted for the health-conscious are their new power-breakfast jars packed with fruits and herbs plucked straight from the on-site garden. Think: pandan-infused pineapple on rolled oats in black sesame-infused milk ($8.80) and papaya infused with turmeric on a bed of tapioca pearls and coconut milk ($8.50).

[caption id="attachment_38274" align="aligncenter" width="2000"]tbb safari Image Credit: Tiong Bahru Bakery[/caption]

A limited edition Wild Safari Cake ($9.20) – an elegant confection of banana mousse, banana passionfruit confit coated in chocolate, and coconut praline feuilletine will be available until Dec 14.

Dempsey is not the easiest place to get to but it’s definitely worth the trip. However we heard that queues stretched on for two hours at the branch’s opening on 16 Nov, so you might have to plan your trip here!

Tiong Bahru Bakery Safari
Address: 130E Minden Road
Opening Hours: 8 – 5pm daily
Contact No.: 6877 4876
Website

Also Read Want To Try Bak Chor Mee Pasta? Timbre Brings Signature Dishes Of Local Home Chefs To Their Outlets

(Header Image Source: Tiong Bahru Bakery)

Renowned Japanese Chef Teppei Opens First Halal Eatery Serving Fukuoka’s Famous Udon

Chef Teppei Yamashita is on a roll.

From Man Man in Ubi to Men-Men Tei Ramen at Marina One, Chef Teppei’s latest joint, Fu-Men, is a carby love letter to his hometown of Fukuoka.

Best part, this is Chef Teppei’s first halal Japanese eatery so everyone can enjoy a taste of this authentic Japanese udon.

[caption id="attachment_38239" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

The Teppei Empire

Considered a form of fast food in Japan, udon can be enjoyed in many ways: warm or cold, in a broth or dry. Every province also has its own take on how to prepare the noodle dish.

Reigning from Hakata, a district in Fukuoka, this newly halal-certified eatery is a rare gem. Hakata udon is mostly only found within the Fukuoka district which means it’s rare that you can find it in other parts of Japan, much less in Singapore.  While most halal Japanese eatery compromises on flavour to cater to the locals, Fu Men Japanese Udon ensures that they maintain the original Japanese flavours.

Hakata-style udon, which is what is served here, is characterised by slimmer noodles as compared to the Sanuki style, and a clear broth made with light soy sauce, dried anchovy, flying fish, dried bonito and kelp.

[caption id="attachment_38244" align="aligncenter" width="3689"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

The broth takes over 45 minutes to prepare as it requires rigorous temperature control and several steps. Plus, the stock is preservative-free and filled with Japanese anchovies, saba, tuna and sardine.

We went for the signature Gobo ($12 for regular, $7 half) which came topped with Burdock Tempura. Not many Singaporean diners may be familiar with burdock as they are typically used in soups and can have an overly-earthy taste.

[caption id="attachment_38238" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

The burdock is coated in a light tempura batter, shaped in a circular disc and deep fried. Surprisingly, the tempura burdock still had a soft crunch and retained its unique woodiness despite being soaked in the broth.

[caption id="attachment_38240" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

 

[caption id="attachment_38243" align="aligncenter" width="6000"] Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

While the tempura was impressive on its own, what truly sealed the deal for us was the udon noodles that were imported from Fukuoka. The udon noodles were silky smooth and satisfyingly chewy at every bite. It’s the perfect option if you’re looking for a light lunch-time meal.

If you’re looking for something that combines both Singaporean and Japanese flavours, their White Laksa Udon pretty much takes the cake. Using the same udon, the light broth is replaced with a rich laksa gravy and topped with fresh prawns.

For those who prefer the typical Japanese dishes such as Prawn Tempura Udon or Beef Udon, you’ll be pleased to know that they are available at Fu-Men as well!

So to all our Muslim friends who lament about the lack of good halal Japanese options in Singapore, you can finally get your Japanese cravings fixed at Fu-Men.

Fu-Men Japanese Udon & Donburi Restaurant
Address: 16 Raffles Quay, Hong Leong Building #B1-17/18, Singapore 048581
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 10am – 8pm, Sat: 10am – 2.30pm, Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
Contact No.: 6224 1134

Also Read This Hawker Turned His Family Recipe Into Japanese-Inspired Dishes – Sells Duck Ramen For Just $5

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

Up Your IG Game With Neon Installations And Catch A Pikachu Parade At Palawan Beach – Runs Till Dec 31

If the Disney-themed light up (and crowds) at Orchard Road aren’t for you, take a detour down south to Sentosa instead.

Island Lights 2018 is the second edition of Sentosa’s pop-up art festival featuring 10 photo-worthy installations scattered across Palawan Beach.

Night At Palawan Beach

Previously known as Pop Up Night, the inaugural Island Lights 2018 returns just in time for the year-end festivities. From now till 31 December 2018, Sentosa’s Palawan Beach has been made over with commissioned works from local artists.

You can expect to be transported to a multi-sensory wonderland with a series of photo-worthy opportunities to get your ‘gram on.

Here are some of the installations to look out for:

1. ASMR Wonderland

Step into ASMR Wonderland for a truly immersive experience.

Multi-disciplinary artist Yang, brings the social media trend to life with an original ASMR soundtrack wafting peacefully over the enclosed room of tarp-covered sand. Think ball pit but softer and relaxing.

2. Harmony

Possibly the coolest outdoor installation is Harmony by multi disciplinary designer – Tina Fung.

She explores the intersection between art, set design, interaction and the environment – in a neon lit setup of hands set against the backdrop of the sea.

3. KTVMTV

KTVMTV by Mash-Up is a 90s dream come true. Mash-Up is an independent Singaporean label that creates bold garments featuring tongue-in-cheek references to pop-up culture.

This installation lets you unleash your inner teenage fantasies of being a superstar. Combining the traditionally tacky designs of karaoke studios and the vibes of a 1990s music video, live out your childhood dreams at KTVMTV.

4. Islands, Barnacles and Other Living Dreams

You definitely won’t miss this glittery pink installation!

Artist Soph O invites you to write a wish and hang it up with those of others before you. Who knows, your dreams might just come true.

5. Pikachu Night Parade

Everyone’s favourite Pokemon, Pikachu, will be joining the party as well! Catch the adorable parade from Japan which will take place at 7.30pm on 14 – 16 December and 21 – 23 December. This parade will feature nine LED-lit Pikachus dancing along a 100m route.

It’s bound to be sweaty, otaku-fuelled madness.

After all that walking and ‘gramming, check out the main area of Palawan Beach which has been converted into a twinkling dining area, complete with food, drinks and live performances from local bands.

If you’re looking to avoid the madness at Orchard Road this end of year, perhaps a trip down to Sentosa is the perfect option.

Also, it’s finally an excuse to go to the beach at night!

Island Lights 2018
Address: Palawan Beach, Sentosa
Date: 16 Nov 2018 – 31 Dec 2018
Website

Also Read Muggles Can Finally Experience Harry Potter’s Wizarding World At Changi Airport Till Feb 2019

Classic Cars, Street Art And Live Performances Breathe New Life Into Kampong Glam This 24 Nov

If there’s any district that grew up with me and moulded me into an adult – a Singaporean adult – it’s Kampong Glam, my most beloved neighbourhood on the island.

I’ve been stalking the back alleys of Kampong Glam since I was cutting my teeth on shisha and first boyfriends. My wardrobe matured on vintage picks from Haji Lane, my music taste expanded through the bass underground at Blu Jaz, my love for Malay food blossomed at Maimunah and Minang House.

Nestled amongst the Iranian carpet dealers, Turkish restaurants and Malay fabric shops that have withstood the test of time, are an array of newer arrivals that have since made this old-school neighbourhood incredibly hip.

However the district still retain its old world charm, despite the many hipster cafés and indie boutiques that have multiplied over the years.

Also, who can resist a warm cup of teh tarik with friends at Kampong Glam on weekend nights?

The Spirit Of Gotong Royong

If you’re constantly wondering what else is there to do at Kampong Glam asides eating and shopping for fabrics, you’ll be pleased to know that a host of exciting programmes await you this weekend.

In support of URA’s Kampong Glam Heritage Day Out on 24th November, Arab street will be closed from 3pm till midnight to host a series of activities fit for the entire family.

[caption id="attachment_38179" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: One Kampong Gelam[/caption]

Here are some activities you can expect at Kampong Glam Heritage Day Out:

1. Classic Cars Display

[caption id="attachment_38180" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: MSVCR Facebook[/caption]

You don’t see many classic cars in Singapore, but they do exist!

If you love all things classic and retro, head down to the event to catch a spectacular collection of classic cars by Malaysia And Singapore Vintage Car Register (MSVCR).

2. Art Jamming

[caption id="attachment_38181" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image Credit: One Kampong Gelam[/caption]

From jumping around in bouncy castles to dressing up as Marvel characters, there’s something for the kids to look forward to at Kampong Glam Heritage Day Out!

3. Live Performances

[caption id="attachment_38182" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: Beats Encore Facebook[/caption]

Hyping up the crowd at Kampong Glam is Beats Encore – a live percussion and drums ensemble from Republic Polytechnic.

This youthful crew is made up of young, aspiring and impartial musos who believe in uplifting their traditional drums and percussions like none other.

4. Street Art

[caption id="attachment_38183" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: RSCLS Facebook[/caption]

From its underground graffiti roots in the mid-1990s to its current mainstream renaissance, Singapore’s street art movement has come a long way.

Presented by street art collective RSCLS and Jaba, catch them in action as they paint the town red.

This event has been rallied together by the merchants, religious & arts institutions, organic arts groups, varied performers and many others, who make up Kampong Glam’s neighbourhood.

If you’re not planning on getting a haircut at a hipster barbershop or sipping tea at one of the many cafés at Arab Street this Saturday, 24th November, head on down to Kampong Glam Heritage Day Out to relive your younger days and school excursions.

Kampong Heritage Day Out
Address: Arab Street
Date: 24 November 2018
Time: 4pm – 10pm
Website

Also Read Jump Into Volcanoes And Go Whitewater Rafting At S’pore’s First VR Theme Park – Tix Start From $35

(Header Image Source: One Kampong Gelam)

Jump Into Volcanoes And Go Whitewater Rafting At S’pore’s First VR Theme Park – Tix Start From $35

Ask anyone what the best ride at Universal Studios Singapore is, and Transformers: The Ride is bound to come up in the conversation.

With its slick combination of 3D and practical effects, this literal thrill ride is an adrenaline-pumping masterpiece, giving you a virtual reality experience that you can’t find anywhere else in the park.

And if you’re a fan of that, then you’re going to love Headrock VR.

Virtual Reality Heaven

[caption id="attachment_38165" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Headrock VR Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Also located at Resorts World Sentosa (a two minute walk form USS, no less), Headrock VR is Singapore’s first virtual reality theme park.

As its name suggests, each of its 11 rides make use of virtual reality technology, offering a wide range of experiences that include whitewater rafting, leaping through the jungle and jumping into a volcano.

[caption id="attachment_38169" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Headrock VR Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38171" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Headrock VR Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption] [caption id="attachment_38170" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Headrock VR Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

For those who don’t like their hearts beating at a 120 beats per minute, don’t worry — there are less intense activities like archery and that Beat Saber rhythm game that you might have seen on YouTube as well.

[caption id="attachment_38168" align="alignnone" width="4032"]Headrock VR Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

K-pop fans will also be interested to know that Big Bang’s Seungri is both Headrock VR’s ambassador and creative director. He played a role in selecting every ride in the park, and you’ll even get to hear his voice in the aforementioned whitewater rafting ride.

Headrock VR is open right now, with ticket prices ranging from $35 to $65. To commemorate its opening there are discounts of up to 30% till the 16th of December, so you might want to change your plans this weekend.

Headrock VR
Venue: Resorts World Sentosa, #01-38/39
Price: $35 – $65
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm (last admission at 7pm)

Tickets I Facebook

Also Read Need A Quick Getaway? One Of The World’s Largest Waterparks Is Only A 2-Hour Drive From S’pore

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

PSA: SBS Will Be Offering Free Wi-Fi On 300 Buses From Feb 2019 Onwards

SBS WiFi
Back in July, a select number of SBS buses offered free onboard Wi-Fi as part of a marketing campaign with DBS.
Unfortunately, said campaign ended in September, and since then we’ve had to resist the urge to watch YouTube videos outside in an effort to salvage our bursting data plans.
Come next year, however, SBS will be bringing free Wi-Fi back again, and this time it’s permanent.

Free Wi-Fi, Best Wi-Fi

That’s right — according to a press release on the SBS website, a whopping 300 SBS buses will offer free Wi-Fi from February 2019 onwards.
You might not want to celebrate just yet, though — these 300 buses are all part of the Bukit Merah “Bus Package”, which comprises of the services 5, 16, 57, 93, 120, 121, 122, 123/123M, 131/131M, 145, 160, 170, 195, 198, 272, 273, 400 and 402.
[caption id="attachment_38143" align="aligncenter" width="1394"]SBS Wifi In red: the blessed area. Gotta start somewhere, we guess.
Image Credit: Google Maps[/caption]
So unless you’re living in the Tiong Bahru/Redhill area, you’ll probably still have to download Spotify playlists before you leave the house.
 
For those lucky enough to live in the blessed area, the benefits don’t stop there — charging points will be set up in the Bukit Merah and Harbourfront bus interchanges, and commuters can borrow umbrellas for free during rainy days as well.
 
On the bright side, we’re a little over a year away from free Wi-Fi being offered at all MRT/LRT stations and bus interchanges, so north, east and west siders still have something to look forward to, we guess.
Also Read Trade In Your Travel Memories For Credits Or Free Experiences On Klook – Happening This Weekend Only
(Header Image Source: Darryl Chua)