F45 Training In Singapore: The Most Intense 45 Minutes Of My Life
Somewhere between HIIT and Crossfit lies F45, a 45-minute-long functional training programme that has recently hit our shores early this year. The F45 fitness franchise was first developed in Australia, and has since taken the rest of the world by storm with its fast-paced full-body workout.
F45 – 45-minute-long functional training programme
If you ask me, I’d describe it as HIIT with a little more equipment than you bargained for – expect to get up close at personal with TRX straps, free weights, bosu balls, kettlebells, spin bikes, pull-up bars, rowing machines, prowlers, sledge hammers and sandbags. You could also say that it’s a less intimidating version of Crossfit. The focal point is not to attain a personal record in an overhead squat but to complete as many reps as possible in each station.
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Image source: F45 Tanjong Katong[/caption]
Themed exercises
Each day is dedicated to a different workout so if you’re a regular, you can be sure that you’ll be working a different muscle every day of the week. The workouts are themed and playfully named – Brooklyn (MMA- and boxing-based), Romans (resistance-based), Quarterbacks (agility- and pylometrics-based). Saturday’s Hollywood class ends off the week with a bang; combining resistance and cardio exercises across a whopping 27-stations in a mere 45-minutes.
Workouts
These themed exercises are different each week, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised as soon as you step foot into class. At each station, each set of workout ranges from 35- to 55-seconds, with a 10- to 20-seconds rest between sets or stations.
The timings and workout videos will be flashed on a screen at the front of the room for instructional purposes. The trainer, Cat, walks around the room to correct our forms while spurring us on.
My experience
My first class was Quarterbacks. There were three pods and three stations in each pod – that’s nine different stations altogether. Sounds like a manageable handful? Think again. Each station within each pod has to be completed twice (35-seconds workout, 10-seconds rest), and once all nine stations have been completed as a team, we had to repeat everything for one last round.
The workouts for that day included chest press, pull ups, push ups, weighed lunges, kettlebell lifts and prowler pushes – just to name a few.
I started to grow pale as soon as I hit my second round. I felt like I was on the verge of throwing up my non-existent breakfast (maybe I should have had a bite before leaving the house). But I soldiered on. I tried to shift my focus to the specially curated, upbeat F45 playlist in an attempt to drown out the agony I was in.
Before I knew it, the 45mins was over. Even though I found myself hobbling up the stairs as soon as my muscle soreness kicked in, it was totally worth it because I knew that I had emerged stronger.
F45 trainings have proven to be a test of endurance, cardio capacity and strength all at once, so expect to feel aches in parts of your body that you’ve never known could ache. If you’re up for the challenge, F45 offers a two-week trial for you to have a taste of painful pleasure before you commit yourself to become a regular.
Tips!
Tip #1: To avoid disappointment, make a booking online or on the F45 app prior to coming to class. Classes can get pretty full – even the 6.15am ones!
Tip#2: Hop over to Do.Main Bakery (266 Tanjong Katong Road) after class for kickass pastries. It’s only a stone’s throw away!
This article is brought to you by Discover SG x Collette Miles
Also, read 5 Friendly Boutique Gyms To Kickstart Your Keep Fit & Exercise Resolution!
Sweet Dreams Are Made Of These 7 Gorgeous Houses! #housegoals
Sure, a house is only as cosy and welcoming as the people who stay in it. But sometimes, it doesn’t hurt to pimp up your house a little (or a lot) to help achieve a look of grandiose and luxury. And it definitely doesn’t hurt to ogle at some of these gorgeous houses that one can only dream of living in.
From lush greenery facades to clean slate minimalism, we’ve found some of Singapore’s most gorgeous houses. They are truly aspirational and inspirational all at once.
1. Arena House | Prow Architects
As its name suggest, this is a home for serious party-planners and movie buffs alike. It might look like a clean and modern house on the outside, but the conventional spaces found in a home are pushed to the back of the house, creating a vast empty event space suitable for hosting stellar parties and large groups of people. When desired, the event space can be transformed into a projection screen – enjoy movies flashed on the big screen right in the comforts of your room.
2. 128D Cairnhill Road | Woha Architects
3. House At Rienzi Street | A D Lab
4. 133 Cove Drive | Richard Ho Architects
5. Sentosa Cove House | Wallflower Architecture + Design
7. Tetris House | K2LD Architects
While these houses are clearly not for everybody, it wouldn’t hurt to keep these on hand inspiration. Who knows, the next time you strike a windfall, you’ll be ready to recreate your very own gorgeous house to add to this list.
(Header image: Also, read 5 Best Stores To Get A Scandinavian-Style Home Without Ikea!
The Full List Of Michelin Guide Singapore 2016 – How Many Have You Tried?
The wait is finally over! We now have our very own Michelin Guide Singapore! And the best part of all, we’re the first Southeast Asian country, and only the fourth Asian nation after Japan, Hong Kong and Macau, to be rated by the Michelin Guide.
Michelin Star classification
The Guide conveys its review through brief summaries and with every prestigious ‘star’. Restaurants may receive zero to 3 stars for the quality of their food. The Star classification:
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Image source: Michelin Guide Singapore[/caption]
Without further ado, here are the starred dining establishments that made it to the 2016 Guide!
1 Starred Dining Establishment
1. Amla by Juan Amador – Goodwood Park Hotel
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Image source: alma[/caption]
2. Bacchanalia – HongKong Street
3. Beni – Mandarin Gallery
4. Candlenut -New Bridge Road
5. Corner House – Botanic Gardens
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Image source: Straits Times SEAH KWANG PENG[/caption]
10. Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle – Chinatown Food Complex
11. Jaan, Swissotel – The Stamford
12. Lei Garden – Chijmes
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Image source: Silver Kris[/caption]
5. Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro – Mandarin Orchard Singapore
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Image source: 
Image source: The First And Only 3 Starred Dining Establishment
Joël Robuchon Restaurant – Resort World Sentosa
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Image source: Verdict Is Out! Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore For Best Food Under $45
Rope Yoga & Kitesurfing? 6 Thrilling Sports For Adrenaline Junkies
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, chances are you’ve already tried some of the more uh, thrilling sports such as rock climbing and walking across elevated wobbly logs at the Forest Adventure. Compared to the usual void deck soccer and multipurpose hall badminton, rock climbing does sound pretty rad.
However, as true thrill seekers, completing the Forest Adventure alone just doesn’t cut it. What you need are some heart-pounding and soul-stopping activates that will get your adrenaline going. From cable skiing to car racing, we give you six thrilling sports that will do more than satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you.
1. Urban Skiing
[caption id="attachment_11349" align="alignnone" width="1000"]
Source: The Asian Entrepreneur[/caption]
With 2. Cable Skiing
[caption id="attachment_11352" align="alignnone" width="897"] Sure, we may not have the luxury of large open waters but that does not stop water sports enthusiasts from trying their hands at cable skiing. Instead of a boat, you’ll be pulled by a machine at speeds from twenty to fifty-eight kilometres per hour. Not exactly a pro? Fret not as the instructors will have you covered. So if you’re looking for a cooling yet thrilling activity, check out 3. Kitesurfing
[caption id="attachment_11354" align="alignnone" width="1021"] Though a familiar activity to many water sports enthusiasts, some may be surprised to find this sport in Singapore. Conducted at either East Coast Park or Pasir Ris, spend your day navigating a power kite whilst skimming across blue sparkly waters. For the beginners, do expect to take a couple of hours/days before you’re able to fly. Do check out 4. Land Paddling
[caption id="attachment_11355" align="alignnone" width="960"] Not that big a fan of water sports? Land paddling should do the trick. If you’re familiar with Stand Up Paddling (SUP), land paddling is simply the uh, land version. If not, simply imagine yourself riding a skateboard but instead of kicking your legs, you use a long stick to push yourself forward. It may sound simple, but trust us when we say this sport is a great way of getting those chiselled six pecs. If you’re looking for a place to start, 5. Go-Karting
[caption id="attachment_11357" align="alignnone" width="1536"] Always wanted a taste of the Fast & Furious team but lack the driving license to do so? Not only does Go-Karting excuse your lack of driving skills, it offers you the speed and adrenaline you need. With the longest track in Singapore, 6. Rope Yoga
[caption id="attachment_11358" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Yeap, it’s exactly what it sounds like. It’s rope plus yoga. Unlike the traditional yoga, rope yoga uses sturdy ropes that provide support to aid your stretchability and yoga poses. Worry not if you’re new to rope yoga or even yoga. The ropes are there to help ease the tightness of your body. So ladies, if you’re looking for something new, feel free to give rope yoga a try at $39 for a session at So the next time, before you lament about how “Singapore got nothing to do leh”, do give one or several of these six heart-pumping sports a go. We do admit that these thrilling sports are relatively costly when compared to the rental of a badminton court but hey, experience is priceless, right? Also, read Not Ulu Anymore! Here’s A Peek At Decathlon’s City Square Mall Store
Source: Groupon[/caption]
Source: Shutterstock[/caption]
Source: Land Paddle Singapore[/caption]
Source: The Straits Times[/caption]
Source: Expat Living[/caption]
Laksa Cocktail? 8 Whacky Singaporean Cocktails You Need To Try!
Let’s be honest, for people who aren’t exactly the fiercest of patriots, we are surprisingly crazy for any food/beverage that has local twists to them. With Salted Egg Yolk hogging the spotlight for the past couple of weeks, we’d like to take the chance to introduce the cocktail equivalent of the McDonald’s Salted Egg Yolk Chicken Burger.
Kidding. Had you for a second there, didn’t we?
Seriously, though, you never know if a Salted Egg Yolk cocktail is coming our way. In the meantime, we did some prowling in our bar scene. Guess what? We came across several locally inspired drinks, Singaporean cocktails specifically, whose weirdness rivals that of the imaginary Salted Egg Yolk’s.
Unusual yet delicious, we present you seven whacky and uniquely Singaporean cocktails you need to try.
1. Stylo Milo
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Even the cup is green. Source: Weekender[/caption]
Straight from the Kopitiam is Stylo Milo, Ding Dong’s playful take on our favourite childhood drink. More than just freshly brewed Milo and condensed milk, Stylo Milo also features a dash of Hakushu Distillers Reserve’s whisky and green chartreuse. This guys, is how you drink Milo peng in style.
Ding Dong
Address: 115 Amoy Street #01-02, S069935
Contact: 6557 0189
Opening hours: Mon to Fri, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 12am; Sat, 6pm – 12am
2. Kaya Toast Cocktail
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Source: @gourmetandtravel[/caption]
Need some toast to go with your Milo? Fret not, 3. Mr. Bean
[caption id="attachment_11171" align="alignnone" width="1000"] A modern take on tao huey, this beancurd cocktail is a signature drink from Jekyll & Hyde that consists of butterscotch liqeuer, kaya, frangelico, vodka and of course, beancurd. Yes, there is actual tao huey in it. Not just some chapalang beancurd, but the renowned Lao Ban beancurd is what is used for this concoction. This is a creamy, sweet and hazelnutty drink that we think is great on its own. Jekyll & Hyde It’s not enough that Kuvo serves its own rendition of the traditional Prawn Noodle Soup. It serves also the Prawn Noodle Cocktail! Comprising of the ingredients you’ll find in your everyday Prawn Noodle Soup, be warned that this unorthodox concoction may be a little too exotic for some. Kuvo A frothy beverage made of laksa leaves, coriander, ginger, chilli, lime juice, egg white and rum, the Laksa Cocktail by Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall is a cocktail with a kick. Slightly creamy, this distinctly aromatic blend is a pretty good Singaporean cocktail rendition of the traditional laksa. On a side note, how old school is the name Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall? Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall Served in a traditional teacup of sorts, the Chicken Rice Cocktail from 7. Nonya Crack
[caption id="attachment_11175" align="alignnone" width="700"] A concoction similar to Baileys, Singaporean cocktail of batida de coco, pandan, milk, pink salt and rum. This is another Singaporean cocktail we’d recommend as a dessert cocktail. 6327 4820 Feeling a little heaty from the laksa and chicken rice? Maison Ikkoku presents to you the Liang Teh. A mixture of chrysanthemum, luo han guo, xia gu chao, red dates, ginseng and white spirits, traditional herbal tea has just gotten better. If only our ah ma had thought of this. Maison Ikkoku With these eight cocktails, there really is no better time to let your Singaporean-ness shine. So unleash your inner alcoholic patriot and get started on these whacky Singaporean cocktails! (Header image by Weekender, words by editor) Also, read Verdict Is Out! Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore For Best Food Under $45
Source: Saveur[/caption]
Address: 49 Tras Street S078988
Contact: 6222 33494. Prawn Noodle Cocktail
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Source: KUVO Singapore[/caption]
Address: 321 Orchard Road, #02-01 S238866
Contact: 6733 8272
Opening hours: Mon to Thu, 12pm – 1am; Fri & Sat, 12pm – 2am; Sun 12pm – 1am5. Laksa Cocktail
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Source: Burpple[/caption]
Address: 60A Boat Quay, S049848
Contact: 6535 0838
Opening hours: Mon to Thu, 6pm – 12am; Fri & Sat, 6pm – 3am6. Chicken Rice Cocktail
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Source: Gourmetadventures[/caption]
Source: Chope[/caption]
Opening hours: Daily, 4pm – 1am8. Liang Teh
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Source: The Straits Times[/caption]
Address: 20 Kandahar Street, S198885
Contact: 6294 0078
Opening hours: Sun to Thu, 6pm – 1am; Fri & Sat, 6pm – 2am
The Best Food Around SMU – Cos Muggers Need Good Food Even More!
One of the best things about Singapore Management University (SMU) is its extremely central location. It’s just a stone’s throw away from over five malls and four movie theatres.
As compared to the relatively elusive NUS, SIM and Pulau NTU, SMU’s location is gold. With an enviable variety of dining options perfect for brunch get-togethers, indulgent lunch plans, and romantic dinners, decision-making can get pretty tough whenever lunch/dinner rolls around.
To help you guys out, listed below are our top 5 picks for the best food around SMU.
1. Timbre @ The Substation
Image Credit: Sg.asia-city
Image credit: sszeki
2. Kith Cafe
[caption id="attachment_10587" align="alignnone" width="4746"] If you’re looking for a quick fix to spice up your Instagram, Breakfast options like Kith’s Big Breakfast (Eggs, toast, bacon, smoked bratwurst, sautéed mushrooms, grilled tomatoes) are served till 3pm. Mains such as the Sirloin Steak Sandwich are served after 11am. Oh, and don’t forget to order coffee, the latte art really completes the food flat lay! 3. The Daily Scoop
Pretty much unrivalled when it comes to waffles and ice-cream, Take it from someone who knows waffles, this is the perfect balance between a crispy and fragrant crust with a soft and light interior. The Daily Scoop offers a large collection of tastebud-friendly ice creams and often introduces refreshing new flavours to keep things new. After the first ice cream waffle, you’ll be coming back again and again for your dessert fix. 4. I’mKim Korean BBQ
[caption id="attachment_10583" align="alignnone" width="620"] We have two words for this eatery: Affordable and Awesome. I’m Kim Korean Barbecue is the place for meat lovers, with tender pork, beef, and chicken marinated in lip-smacking spicy, sweet, and salty sauces at your disposal. With its salad, soup, cooked food (their chicken wings are the best!) and drinks counter, you can’t go wrong with the student-friendly weekday lunch price ($12.90++). I’m Kim Korean Barbecue With its $4.80 pasta and iced lemon tea lunch set, and located within the campus itself, we’re pretty sure Tea Party Express is a familiar name to the majority of SMU students. Pasta choices include the Carbonara, Aglio Olio, Bolognese, and if you’re feeling adventurous and extra-hungry, order their famous Scones with Cream Cheese sauce to go! Tea Party Express has very recently expanded and is now serving new menu items such as Truffle Fries, Mac & Cheese, Chicken and Fish and Chips. With so many student favourites, you can’t possibly go wrong with this pocket-friendly dining option. Tea Party Express Whether it’s your first or hundredth visit, these best food around SMU will still guarantee great dining experiences.
Image Credit: Burpple[/caption]
Image Credit: Burpple
Image Credits: gracellow
image credits: groupon[/caption]
Address: 1 Zubir Said Drive, #01-04/05/06/07 S227968
Located opposite SMU’s School of Economics, at SOTA.
Contact: 6238 7218
Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10.30pm; Fri to Sun 11.30-3.30pm; 5pm-10.30pm5. Teaparty Express
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Image Credits: Trip Advisor[/caption]
Image Credits: Burpple
Address: 90 Stamford Rd #01-75, S178901
Located at SMU’s School of Economics, Level 1.
Patissez Freakshake: Milkshakes So Sinful, You’ll Feel Guilty For A Lifetime!
Growing up in my family, getting a milkshake in a restaurant was a pretty big deal for a child. It meant that you were being rewarded with a treat of something other than juice or the rare soft drink. Plus, you got to choose the flavour of the milkshake and revel in a cup of vanilla, chocolate or strawberry.
Nowadays, milkshakes are a lot more bold and exciting, especially with the creation of ‘freakshakes’ a few years ago! Freakshakes, an extravagant milkshake that may just freak some out with its ingredients, is originally from a patisserie called Patissez in Canberra, Australia. Patissez has recently landed in Singapore with four amazing flavours!
Patissez Singapore
Located on the ground floor of the still fresh Raffles Holland V mall, Patissez Singapore touts slightly extravagant milkshakes better known as ‘freakshakes’. It’s originally from Canberra, Australia. These flavours are mostly a mix of different food items that most people would love on its own, but even more when it’s in a cup together.
This is the second international branch of the original Patissez brand, with the first being Patissez Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur. The creator of the Patissez Freakshake said that they are planning to launch in Thailand and China in the future.
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The evolution of its logo[/caption]
Patissez Freakshake
At first glance, Patissez’s signature Freakshakes look almost like they were squeezed into a mason jar too small for what it is — a heavenly, decadent mess. Depending on the type of shake you ordered, you would find whipped cream, peanut butter and chocolate overflowing out of the jar. Patissez Freakshake instantly transports you to Willy Wonka’s magical factory.
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A minishake[/caption]
Patissez Singapore carries four freakshakes: the Muddy Pat, Pretzella, Mint Condition and Sneaky Freak.
As we tried all of these four shakes, it became increasingly evident that these unmistakably unique concoctions are more than just items on the menu. Priced at $16 a drink, each Patissez Freakshake is an experience.
Patissez Freakshake – the Muddy Pat
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Image Credit: @leivonne / Instagram[/caption]
We munched down on the Muddy Pat, a chocolate-y shake that comes with vanilla mousse, a heavenly fudge brownie and a marshmallow. As we savoured it, we mm-ed and aah-ed our way, as if experiencing a gastro-orgasmic release.
Patissez Freakshake – Pretzella and Mint Condition
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Mint Condition and the Pretzella[/caption]
My favourite was the Pretzella, a Nutella-meets-pretzels kind of shake that I would, without a doubt, describe as ‘best of both worlds’: salty and sweet. Slurping the shake with a straw, finishing the messy yet beautiful milkshake made me felt cathartic.
You might also find the Mint Condition a good buy, especially if you are a fan of mint chocolate and cookie sandwiches. It would have been even tastier if the cookie sandwich was made out of ice cream, but that might just make it even more over-the-top.
Patissez Freakshake – Sneaky Freak
Since peanut butter isn’t exactly my favourite topping in the cabinet, I have to say that the Sneaky Freak wouldn’t be my first choice. But from what I’ve heard, it is every bit delicious and lip-smackingly good as it is salty and creamy.
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Image Credit: @lollapaige/ Instagram[/caption]
Patissez Food
Aside from whipped cream-topped drinks, the Patissez also functions as a restaurant with many top-notch dishes to boot. Popular choices include its all-day breakfast selections, from bacon jam toasty to Brekkie Burger to Corn & Zucchini Fritters.
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Image Credit: @patissezsg / Instagram[/caption]
It is also well known for its burgers, all served with fries and Patissez special sauce. Examples include the Freak Burger which is made up of two beef patties, double crispy bacon, bacon jam, American cheddar and housemade BBQ sauce. For the non-beef diners, the Crispy Panko Chicken Burger is not to be missed. It comes with Panko sesame chicken, kewpie mayo, pickled vegetables ad lettuce.
With a wooden-plank ceiling and warm lighting – in low hanging bulbs no less, this cosy cafe will definitely make a good date spot for folks. It’s the best place to relax and enjoy a sinful drink with some good ol’ brunch and company. Just be careful not to overeat!
Patissez Singapore
Address: 118 Holland Avenue #01-06 Singapore 278997
Tel: +65 62623616
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM, Mondays to Fridays, 9 AM – 10 PM Saturdays and Sundays
This was an invited food tasting session
Header image credit: Patissez Singapore
Also, read The Most Elaborate Milkshakes in Singapore! – A Drool-Worthy Photo Gallery
Verdict Is Out! Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore For Best Food Under $45
Where to get the best Curry Laksa? Which hawker stall has the best Hainanese Chicken Rice? Don’t know where to bring your tourist friends for the best Chai Tow Kway?
Worry no more because some of Singapore’s best eateries have been awarded a”Bib Gourmand” (high-quality menu at reasonable prices) by the very first edition of the Singapore Michelin Guide! So who made the cut? Here are the 34 hawker stalls, restaurants and food establishment that made the list.
What is Bib Gourmand?
“Not quite a star, but most definitely not a consolation prize, the Bib Gourmand…is a just-as-esteemed rating that recognises friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices. ” In Singapore – the meal must be under SGD$45 to qualify.
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Credit: Michelin Guide[/caption]
Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore – Hawker Stalls
Without further ado, here’s the full list!
1. Claypot Laksa – Alexandra Village Food Centre
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Image source: kate2.0[/caption]
23. New Ubin Seafood – Sin Ming Road
24. Peony Jade at Keppel Club (Cantonese) – Bukit Chermin Rd
25. Shish Mahal (Indian) – Albert Street
26. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh – New Bridge Rd
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Image source: Yayforfries[/caption]
27. 328 Katong Laksa – East Coast Road
28. True Blue Cuisine (Peranakan) – Armenien Street
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Image source: Bismillah Biryani[/caption]
33. JB Ah Meng Kitchen (Cantonese) – Geylang Road
34. Sin Huat Eating House (crab rice noodle) – Geylang Road
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With so many yummy approved food to choose from, we reckon you bookmark this page (and share with your friends) for future reference. You’ll always know “what to eat” and “where to eat” from now. No more arguments about who has to decide meal plans!
Header image source: Clearing All Your Doubts – How Exactly Does The Michelin Guide Work?
[Review] Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – The Place To Soothe All Aches
This spa, Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang, has been making waves around social media as of late. It has only been open recently. However, the hype surrounding it made us curious about its offerings. We decided to head down early one Wednesday morning to see what having an onsen in sunny Singapore would be like.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Hot water in the forest
The name Yunomori means hot water in the forest, and since Singapore is a garden city, I suppose it is quite fitting.
The interior is very evidently a nod to Japanese culture – clean, white and neat. But there’s a little sign on the warming list that says no yakuzas allowed inside the Onsen. That made me laugh out loud.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Shower facilities & onsen
The men’s and women’s sections are predictably segregated.
Yukatas are available at the counter as you enter each area. Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang recommends onsen users to experience it the Japanese way by going commando. However, women have the option of requesting for disposable underwear if they are uncomfortable going in commando. When we were there, many younger women covered themselves up but the older women seemed to be very comfortable in their own skin.
The dressing room area is equipped with a hairdryer, cotton wool and buds, and a Yunomori branded moisturiser for after the onsen experience.
The showers are very much like the ones you see in Japan. They come with a stool for you to sit on. Before and after the Onsen experience, you are expected to take a shower at these shower areas. It was quite an odd experience as I don’t sit while showering. But huge bottles of shampoo, conditioner and body wash were readily available at each shower stall.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Men’s sauna & onsen
For some reason, the men have a much larger open shower area (pictured below) right next to the sauna. Women do not have access to the sauna. It is believed that women’s skin is too delicate for the extreme heat.
The men have a total of 6 pools, one more than the women do. The men have an additional pool, known as the hot bath, in which the temperature goes up to 44 degrees Celsius.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – The pools
Apart from that, the rest of the pools are the same. There is the soda bath, featuring Japanese imported technology, and the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. The 38.5-39.5 degree Celsius water in the soda bath is enriched with a high concentration of natural carbon dioxide. The CO2-rich water is said to increase blood oxygen levels, improve circulation, reduce high blood pressure and also detoxify the blood.
The Silk Bath is hot water (38.5-39.5 degrees Celsius) reacting with large amounts of micro-bubble containing hydrogen. These jets of tiny bubbles give the water a sensual and silky texture, which makes the skin really smooth. The soothing nature of the bath is said to relax the muscles and alleviate problems like rheumatism, arthritic aches and pains, as well as mental stress.
Other baths include the Bubble Bath, imbued with the nutrients of carefully balanced minerals. It feels just like a jacuzzi, except you will be stewing in water of about 38.5-39.5 degrees Celsius.
The Jet Bath consists of full-body jet streams of air that is said to help stimulate blood circulation. This bath is slightly hotter at 39.5-41 degrees Celsius. Personally, I find it best to start with the lower temperature pools then move up to the Jet Bath last before taking a dip into the last pool, the cold bath.
The Cold Bath is an invigorating jolt to the senses and almost has a numbing effect as the water is set at 17-19 degrees Celsius. The almost icy cold water will stimulate the body’s natural energy and nerve endings. It is also touted to boost anti-ageing effects by closing the pores and tightening the skin.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Steam bath
Both the men and women also get to enjoy the steam bath, with sea salt scrub readily available in a huge wooden bucket. The steam bath is set to 100% humidity, up to 49 degrees Celsius.
You would think, after all of the heat in Singapore, you’d be used to it. But there’s really nothing better than taking that final dip into the cold bath.
After that, guests are welcome to lounge at the lounge area, complete with pillows and blankets. Otherwise, a cafe is also available to serve meals to hungry clientele.
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Other services
Other services include:
- Thai Traditional Massage (starts from $88+ for 60 mins): With techniques developed over thousands of years, this massage is steeped in physiology and traditional oriental medicine. Using an ancient mix of body rocking, rhythmic acupressure and stretches, therapists will help you balance your essential energies, improve flexibility and stimulate circulation.
- Aroma Oil Massage (starts from $138+ for 90 mins): This therapy blends the best massage techniques around the world. Fragrant essential oils boost the effects of the massage with their natural healing benefits. Alleviate problems such as headaches, muscle and tendon injuries as well as aches and pains.
- Herbal Compress (Add-on, $38+ for 30 mins): This is an art that has been preserved for thousands of years. It combines the benefits of Thai massage and Thai herbal remedies to create a stimulating yet soothing therapy. Aromatic medicinal herbs are cocooned within a cloth and steamed to release their healing properties. These remedies are known to help with stress, anxiety, chronic pain and arthritis.
- Foot Massage (starts from $38+ for 30 mins)
- Head & Shoulder Massage (starts from $38+ for 30 mins)
Yunomori Onsen @ Kallang – Prices
Onsen:
- Adult – $38 ($40.66 w/gst)
- 15 year-old & below OR 65 year-old & above – $28 ($29.96 w/gst)
Onsen & Spa Packages:
- Onsen + 60 mins Thai Massage – $118 ($126.26w/gst)
- Onsen + 90 mins Thai Massage & Herbal Compress – $156 ($166.92 w/gst)
- Onsen + 90 mins Aroma Oil Massage – $168 ($179.76 w/gst)
- Onsen + 120 mins Aroma Oil Massage & Herbal Compress – $206 ($220.42w/gst)
- Onsen + 30 mins Foot Massage – $68 ($72.76 w/gst)
- Onsen + 30 mins Head & Shoulder Massage – $68 ($72.76 w/gst)
7 Local Desserts So Good, They’ll Remind You Of Your Childhood Sweetheart
Topped with tropical fruits and a side of condensed milk for a Snapchat worthy sweet treat, Bingsus are the go-to dessert on a hot summer’s day. Not forgetting a warm and freshly baked Belgian waffle, topped with a scoop of creamy gelato and almond sprinkles. Mmm.
Local Dessert – Comfort Food That Never Disappoints
But when it comes to hitting that sweet spot for dessert, nothing does it better than local dessert. Affordable, nostalgic and ultimately delicious, local dessert is not only part and parcel of our culture, but also a quick and delicious way to seek respite from the blistering heat. Be it a cooling snack, a mid-day treat or a post-meal dessert, here’s a list of where you can go to get your local dessert fix!
1. Mei Hong Yuen Dessert
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@sharonista
A name familiar to most, this local dessert chain serves traditional hot and cold dessert. It is one of the “Singapore Chinatown Heritage Brands”. These brands are the ones that have been operating in Chinatown for at least 30 years. Through the years, Having eaten at this dessert stall for years, we heavily recommend the Almond with Egg White, Red Bean Lotus, and Chee Cheong Fun. They have also recently opened more stalls, so you don’t have to travel to Chinatown just to savour one of the best local dessert stalls.
From its smooth and comforting bowl of peanut paste to the classic and juicy bowl of mango with pomelo and sago, you’ll never be disappointed.
Outlets: Image credit: With a wordy menu filled with a huge variety of local dessert options, being spoilt for choice is an understatement. Ah Chew Desserts often sees large crowds of both locals and foreigners alike. It has even received media spotlight from NHK Broadcasting Corporation. Other must-try dishes include Hawaiian Papaya boiled with Fresh Milk, Black Glutinous Rice with Vanilla Ice-cream, Mango Sago & Pomelo, Watermelon Honeydew with Sago, and Durian Hong Kong Red Bean Ice. Ah Chew Desserts Image credit: www.burpple.com/@Kirschwarm
Chinatown: No. 63 – 67 Temple Street, #B2-32 Chinatown Point
Orchard: #B4-34, ION
Novena: #02-03 Velocity@Novena Square
Clementi: #03-02 321 Clementi Ave 3
Opening Hours:
Click 2. Ah Chew Desserts
Address: 1 Liang Seah Street, #01-10/11; 181 Thomson Road, Goldhill Shopping Centre
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12:30pm – 11.30pm; Fri: 12.30pm – 12.30am; Sat: 1.30pm – 12.30am; Sun: 1.30pm – 11.30pm3. Ji De Chi
Traditional flavours still have a place in today’s age. Ji De Chi’s dish of sweet mangoes and black glutinous rice wrapped in green tea mochi is the perfect example. This eatery serves up a good selection of traditional and modern desserts.
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@rachellelinggg
Their rendition of the Taiwanese shaved ice dessert is a cheaper alternative to the pricier bingsu, but it definitely does not lack in terms of sweetness and flavour.
Ji De Chi
Address: 8 Liang Seah Street, #01-03
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 11pm
4. Annie’s Peanut Ice Kachang
With numerous modern spins on the old ice kachang dish, perhaps the best combination is still some roasted peanut and red bean, doused with a colourful blend of syrup.
Annie’s Peanut Ice Kachang
Address: 3 Yung Sheng Road, #01-01
5. Ye Lai Xiang Cheng Tng
Image credit: Sticking to a traditional recipe passed down since 1939, Ye Lai Xiang has been churning out bowls of cheng tng.
Their bowl of cheng tng comes loaded with 10 different ingredients, a class above the rest (the usual cheng tng contains only a handful of ingredients). The painstaking preparation process of double boiling the sago and sunning the dried longans is evident in the end result – a clear sweet broth that’s almost addictive.
Address: Bedok Food Centre, 1 Bedok Road, Stall 31
6. Jin Jin Hot/ Cold Dessert
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@iceblossom
The owners weren’t kidding when they named their dish ‘Power Cendol’. Using premium gula-melaka to give it that distinctive palm sugar richness, this is one decadent dessert. It packs all the punches at only a fraction of the price. Coupled with sweet coconut milk and red beans, you’ll find yourself polishing the bowl in jiffy.
Image credit: If you love Mango and Durian, this one’s for you! Tangy Mango cubes are topped with condensed milk and a scoop of Durian puree! There’s also a version without the durian topping. From our visits to Jin Jin Dessert, we also learn that the mango cubes are soaked in a secret sauce for that tangy and refreshing bite. Their hard work pays off, as there’s nothing like this bowl of mango goodness elsewhere!
Jin Jin Hot/ Cold Dessert
Address: ABC Brickworks Market & Food Centre, 6 Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-20
Opening Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sun: 12:30PM – 10PM; Fri, Sat: 12:30PM – 10:30PM
Closed every Wednesday
7. 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup
Image credit: www.burpple.com/@jiaknonstop
We are all accustomed to the usual glutinous rice balls with peanut and black sesame filling. But at 75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup, they even have red bean, yam, and green tea fillings to up their ball antics. Best of all, those special flavours are hand-made!
As their name suggests, they are famous for their peanut soup. The soup is simmered for hours for soft and tender peanuts. They also offer options like almond milk and ginger soup. No matter what you choose, you can be sure you’re digging into a bowl of comforting goodness.
75 Ah Balling Peanut Soup
Address: #01-75, Golden Mile Food Centre, 505 Beach Road; #01-25 Blk 85 Bedok North Street 4
Certainly, there are numerous other dessert stalls out there that serve up that familiar bowl of traditional dessert. When the queues of artisanal desserts grow too long, know that you can always fall back on stalls like these to satisfy your sweet tooth.
(Header image: www.burpple.com/@sharonista)
Also, read Wisma Atria Brings Japan To S’pore – Tsukiji Sushi To Wagyu Beef!
