10 Dope Events And Foods This December That Will Get You In The Mood For X’mas
December is just round the corner, which means we’re only 4 Mondays away from Christmas.
Are you feeling in the festive mood yet? If not, these events will definitely help you get into the Christmas spirit!
Time to put on your Christmas hats and put up that Christmas tree!
Play & Discover
1. Disney In Concert: Frozen
[caption id="attachment_32066" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit: Flypers[/caption]If you’re a fan of Disney’s Frozen, then we have news for you. Disney In Concert: Frozen will be coming to the Esplanade on 2 December 2017!
Now you can relive the movie experience with a live orchestra and choir performing the music while you enjoy the film on a giant screen!
More than 70 live orchestra musicians and choir singers will be performing to bring the iconic ‘Frozen’ soundtrack to live. The combination of the orchestra, choir and the acoustics of the venue will elevate your ‘Frozen’ movie experience to the next level.
Ticket prices range from $75 to $149 and can be purchased here.
Fans of ‘Frozen’ cannot miss this!
Disney In Concert: Frozen
Venue: Esplanade Concert Hall
Date: 2 Dec 2017
Price: $75, $99, $149
Website
2. WKND FOLKS Christmas Pop Up Market
[caption id="attachment_32069" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Image Credit: WKND FOLKS[/caption]WKND FOLKS is launching a Christmas pop-up market at Buzz In The Woods on 2 December 2017. The pop-up market will feature curated retail booths from 24 exclusive vendors.
Visitors can also try their hands at jewelry-making, flower arrangement, Christmas card-making, and earring-making at any one of the 3 Christmas workshops that are available at the market.
There’s also a bouncy castle for the kids while the adults can have their hands painted at the Henna booth or enjoy some artisanal ice cream from KOOKS Creamery.
There will also be a Best Dressed Dogs Contest held at the market, so bring your best dressed puppers!
WKND FOLKS Christmas Pop Up Market
Venue: Buzz In The Woods, 320 Tanglin Road, Singapore, 247980
Date: 2 – 3 Dec 2017
Website
3. The Nutcracker By Singapore Dance Theatre
[caption id="attachment_32070" align="aligncenter" width="792"] Image Credit: The Nutcracker[/caption]This December, be enchanted by Singapore Dance Theatre’s performance of the ballet classic, The Nutcracker at the Esplanade Theatre.
Join young Clara on her adventures as her Nutcracker doll comes alive and transforms into a Prince.
The Nutcracker is based on a story by E.T.A Hoffmann and features additional choreography by the Singapore Dance Theatre.
With intricate costumes and stunning sets by local designer Aaron Yap, be sure to catch this ballet classic performed by the Singapore Dance Theatre, set to the iconic tunes of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
Ticket prices range from $35 to $75 and can be purchased here.
The Nutcracker by Singapore Dance Theatre
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Date: 6 – 10 Dec 2017
Price: $35, $55, $75
Website
4. ZoukOut Singapore 2017
[caption id="attachment_32072" align="aligncenter" width="930"] Image Credit: ZoukOut’s website. Phase 3 tickets are still available, and are going at $228 for a 2-day pass, and $138 and $148 for a 1-day pass for day one and day two respectively.VIP tickets for both days are still available, with day one and day two tickets going at $228 and $238 respectively.
Purchase your tickets 5. Prudential Marina Bay Carnival
[caption id="attachment_31887" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image Credit: Prudential Marina Bay Carnival[/caption]
Open from 15 December 2017- 1 April 2018, the Prudential Marina Bay Carnival is slated to be Singapore’s biggest carnival, occupying a sprawling 25,000 sq metre area. It’ll feature thrill rides, carnival games, and delicious fairground food, among other tantalizing treats. To add to all the good fun going around, there will also be an eclectic collective of youth bands and DJ performances, ventriloquism acts, and carolling groups! With music from home-grown musicians Falling Feathers, Kexin Tay, TheLionCityBoy, and Jasmine Sokko, there won’t be a dull moment while you’re at the fair. Open daily from 4pm to 11pm (except Christmas and New Year’s Eve, when it will start from 3pm), admission to the carnival is completely free! To get yourself credit for rides and games, you can purchase them online beforehand or while you’re on-site. With so many things to do – and plush toys to be won! – you’re in for a hell of a good time at this fair! Prudential Marina Bay Carnival From 9 – 30 December, the open-air carpark at Grange Road will be host to Singapore’s first and largest creative retail playground, Flashbang Singapore! Flashbang Singapore will feature well-curated food and beverages, a retail market, neon light art installations, interactive exhibitions, live music performances, creative workshops, games and more! The event will have 2 different sets of programmes. The activities in the day will be more family-friendly. Activities will include local crafts workshops, gift-making stations, photobooths, interactive installations, 120 F&B and retail stores and even virtual reality installations!
Address: The Promontory, 11 Marina Blvd, Singapore 018940
Date: 15 December 2017 – 1 April 2018
Admission: Free
Image Credit: Flashbang Singapore[/caption]
7. Culture Club Live In Singapore
[caption id="attachment_32074" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Sistic[/caption]
The 80s are back again! Culture Club is touring once again and they’re bringing their classic hits to The Star Theatre at Star Vista on 11 December 2017 for one-night only!
With their hit singles such as “Do You Really Want To Hurt Me“, “Karma Chameleon“, and “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya“, Culture Club has sold over 50 million records worldwide since 1981.
Led by their iconic frontman Boy George, the current lineup includes Roy Hay, Mikey Craig and Jon Moss.
Ticket prices range from $138 to $248, only on Hapz!
Don’t miss this iconic 80s band and grab your tickets now!
Culture Club Live In Singapore
Venue: The Star Theatre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore, 138617
Date: 11 Dec 2017
Price: $138, $158, $188, $228, $248*
Website
*Discounted prices available only on Hapz.
8. Do You Remember The First Time? 12 Years Of Eatmepoptart
[caption id="attachment_32075" align="aligncenter" width="590"] Image Credit: Eatmepoptart[/caption]Eatmepoptart turns 12!
This birthday party is an homage to the music collective founded and run by local DJs weelikeme and KiDG.
The event will be hosted by viral Youtube star Preetipls and headliners will include Supersect and Sobs. Other DJs at the event will include Thievves, Tom Shellsuit, and Zhan.
From pop to rock, and indie disco to trap, these DJs will be expressing their music range and curious selections before wrapping up the night with a frenzy of anthems and guilty pleasure classics.
Tickets go for $35 and can be purchased here.
Do You Remember The First Time? 12 Years of Eatmepoptart
Venue: Esplanade Annexe Studio
Date: 16 Dec 2017
Price: $35
Website
Eat
9. Roji Chaseki
[caption id="attachment_32076" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Burpple User Kenneth Lee[/caption]Roji Chaseki is a new tea kiosk at Raffles XChange. This tea outlet serves up artisanal Japanese tea that’s brewed upon order so you know that each cup of tea is fresh.
Try the Purple Sweet Potato Iced Lattero ($6.40) if you’re feeling adventurous. The drink is not too sweet and has a distinct sweet potato flavour. You can choose to add on cheese foam for free for a new flavour combination.
The teas that they use as their base drinks are pretty unique too. From Ume Ume tea to Momotaro, Milky Popcorn and Melona Manpuku. These are all Roji’s own signature teas.
If you’re in the Raffles Place area, this is the tea shop to visit.
Roji Chaseki
Address: 5 Raffles Place, Raffles XChange, #B1-64, Singapore, 048618
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 10am – 10pm, Sat: 10am – 4pm, Sun: Closed
Contact no.: 6779 2948
Website
10. Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory
[caption id="attachment_32078" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Burpple User Natalie Wong[/caption]Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory, Japan’s number one cheese cookie brand is here and they’ve opened their first outlet at Raffles City Shopping Centre!
At first glance, it looks like a shop that’s just selling cookies but you’d be glad to know that they sell soft serve ice cream too.
There are 2 flavours, Milk and Cheese. The Milk ice cream tastes pretty normal but the Cheese ice cream is a salty-sweet combination that’s surprisingly light and is the one that you should go for.
You can choose to have your soft serve in a waffle cheese cone, or opt for the Cow Cow Sundae ($8.50) which comes with a mixture of Milk and Cheese Ice cream, a Salt and Camembert cookie, and a slice of their signature Milk Cheesecake.
It sounds like a lot of dairy but it is not cloying and the different textures make this sundae an absolute delight to eat.
If you’re not feeling dessert, you can check out their selection of cheese cookies. Choose from Salt and Camembert, Honey and Gorgonzola, and Porcini and Gouda flavours.
The quality of the cookies are the same as the ones you buy in Japan. It’s no wonder that they are Japan’s number one cheese cookie confectionery.
Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory
Address: 252 North Bridge Road, Raffles City #B1-73, Singapore, 179103
Opening Hours: Daily: 11am – 9.30pm
Contact no.: 9248 8476
Website
With so many events happening this December, there’s something for everyone!
Do you know which event you’re going for?
Also read 7 Halal Steamboat Places To Hit Up With Your Muslim Makan Kakis
(Header Image Source: Prudential Marina Bay Carnival)
Ambassador Highlights #3: DSG Meetup, Atlantis Fright Night and Singapore Fashion Week!
We’re at the end of another month which means another roundup of some of the events our ambassadors dropped in on! From food tastings to ‘do not miss’ events our ambassadors were there to witness the fun and indulge in delicious eats! Here are some of the highlights!
1. Skyline Club & Lounge
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Located on the 45th floor of Singapore Land Tower, Skyline Club & Lounge offers breathtaking views of the CBD! Alongside a daily happy hour (5pm – 10pm) and amazing events every other day, Skyline Club & Lounge is the best place to kickback at after a long day a work! Best part of Skyline Club & Lounge? They have a special Ladies Membership Card!
Our ambassadors Vanessa Ho and Stephanie Ler were there to witness first hand the fantastic views that Skyline Club & Lounge has to offer!
For more information check out: Skyline Club & Lounge’s Facebook Page
Jessie Ng was there to try out the hairy crab menu and these dishes had her tastebuds tingling with joy!
Want to find out more? Check out our article! Shang Palace’s Hairy Crab Menu Is So Magical, It’ll Make You Feel Like Hairy Potter
Novita Lam, Isabel Lee and Anna Ng had an blast dancing till dawn!
Find out what you missed! Atlantis Fright Night – Dance Till Dawn At Siloso Beach’s Halloween Themed Music Festival
4. Hardy Hardy Fall/Winter 2016 @ Singapore Fashion Week
https://www.instagram.com/p/BMEkXTwB6Qn/?taken-by=kimberleyyong_
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Singapore Fashion Week is here! And what better way to join in on the festivities than to head to Hardy Hardy’s Fall/Winter 2016 Collection! Held at the National Gallery, this year’s collection was all about heavily intricate motifs and monochromatic colours. Hardy Hardy has embraced a whole new vibe, rock n roll with just a hint of colour! Looking to up the edge of your wardrobe? Some Hardy Hardy pieces is exactly what you need!
Our ambassadors, Chelsea Ang, Cheryl Allison, Kimberley Yong and Janelle Wong were there to witness firsthand Hardy Hardy’s Fall/Winter 2016 Collection!
Check out what you missed at Hardy Hardy’s Official Facebook Page!
5. Alchemist Beer Lab
https://www.instagram.com/p/BMBipZ4Ao5P/?taken-by=janellejaw&hl=en
Looking to enjoy a beer with a really interesting twist? Alchemist Beer Lab is Asia’s first beer infusion bar. Housing 16 state-of-the-art towers, Alchemist Beer Lab offers a wide variety of infused beers. Pink guava, toasted marshmallow and passion fruit are just some examples of infused taps they have here at Alchemist Beer Lab! Served alongside range of tapas and platters, our ambassadors Kimberley Yong and Janelle Wong had an unforgettable gastronomical experience at Alchemist Beer Lab!
Alchemist Beer Lab
South Beach Avenue, 26 Beach Road, #B1-16, S189768
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu 12pm – 12am; Fri 12pm – 1am; Sat 4pm – 1am; Sun Closed
Contact: 63864365
Find out more about at Alchemist Beer Lab’s Official Facebook!
6. DSG Ambassador Meetup @ VLV
[caption id="attachment_17303" align="alignnone" width="1024"] DSG Ambassador Meetup[/caption]Whats better than meeting friends over drinks on a Friday night? Nothing really! The DSG team and our ambassadors headed down to VLV for a get together! With an assortment of finger food and free flowing drinks, we had a great time catching up at VLV!
7. BAKE Cheese Tart
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLiMqKvAFt_/
BAKE Cheese Tart, Singapore favourite decadent dessert opened its second outlet at Westgate Mall and our ambassador Valerie Cheong got a behind the scenes look at how these delicious tasting cheese tarts are made!
Want to find out more? Check out BAKE Cheese Tart Continues Singapore Invasion At Its Second Outlet In Westgate Mall!
BAKE Cheese Tart
Westgate #B2-04
3 Gateway Drive S608532
Opening hours: 10am – 10pm
8. Oyster Indulgence @ Buffet Town
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLbCnN7jtuz/?taken-by=estellaho
Buffet Town is known for their line up of both international and local fare! This month they had a special all-you-can-eat Oyster Indulgence themed buffet! Featuring 12 varieties of Asian and Western influenced oysters on the half shell, our ambassadors Estella Ho, Si Yu and Doreen Ong were in for a never ending flow of freshly shucked oysters!
Check out what you missed! Buffet Town’s Latest Offering Is Making Every Oyster Lover’s Dream Come True
Buffet Town
Raffles City, #B1-44E
252 North Bridge Road
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact: 68373793
9. Workbench Bistro
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Nestled under a block of flats in Ang Mo Kio is Workbench Bistro. Serving up hearty mains like Crab Meat Linguine and Egg Lava Beef Burger this contemporary cafe is all about the food! According to our ambassador Ruth Tan, a ‘do not miss’ dessert at the Workbench Bistro is the eye catching S’moreffles Supreme!
Want to find out more? Check out The Workbench Bistro @ AMK: More Than Just Waffles ‘Cos Their Mains Do Not Disappoint!
10. Kopi Pass
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What’s better than a good cup of coffee on a lazy afternoon? A good cup of coffee at an amazing price! Our ambassadors, Janelle Wong and Novita Lam got their hands on KopiPass! For just $30 for 30 cups of coffee across 30 curated cafes island-wide, KopiPass is a must have for any coffee aficionado!
Find out more at Clare Chang, was there to witness all the magic that Wicked has to offer!
Keen on getting tickets to Wicked? Grab your tickets from [email protected], we would love to work with you!
We’re also on the lookout for more ambassadors who are on the mission to discover the fun and exciting things in Singapore! If you love eating, shopping, and discovering new places in Singapore, just drop us an [email protected].
Also Read: Ambassador Highlights #2: Ultra 2016, Ellysage Launch & Against The Current!
5 Places In Singapore So Eerie That You’ll Have Nightmares Just Exploring These Places
Halloween isn’t just about fun Halloween themed parties and terrifying movies (even though that’s a huge part of it!), it’s also the best time to do some exploring! Despite Singapore only being 51 years old, our tiny island is already full of scary stories and urban legends. While most of these places have been redeveloped or fenced up. We’ve complied the top 5 creepy places which are oddly picturesque and can still be explored!
Disclaimer: Some of these places are open to the public while some are not. Be careful when it comes to exploring!
1. Tanglin Hill Brunei Hostel
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[caption id="attachment_16978" align="alignnone" width="600"] Mediaum.com[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_16979" align="alignnone" width="600"] Medium.com[/caption]
First built to protect Singapore’s then bustling port, Fort Serapong is located within Sentosa. But unlike Fort Siloso which has been well maintained, Fort Serapong is off the beaten track which makes it a lot less accessible. Be extra careful when exploring Fort Serapong, due to the rusty metal present and overgrown flora you might just trip and fall if you aren’t careful!
Spook factor: While not as creepy as the other spots, Fort Serapong is more like a historical spot. But seeing how it’s pretty far from any other main roads and walkways, there’s an eerie silence that overwhelms this spot.
4. Lim Chu Kang Jetty
[caption id="attachment_17011" align="alignnone" width="768"] Everythinkelse.wordpress.com[/caption][caption id="attachment_17009" align="alignnone" width="600"] Remember Singapore.org[/caption]
Lim Chu Kang Jetty may not be creepy at first sight, I mean how creepy can a jetty be right? Very, according to some sources who have made their way to this quiet spot. If you’re exploring the are you might catch a glimpse of an old white structure. Also known as The Cashin House, it’s now gated so you won’t be able to go exploring inside but just making your way around Lim Chu Kang Jetty you can feel the hairs stand on the back of your neck!
Spook Factor: Creepy house that no one has lived in? Check. Quiet jetty where no one can hear you scream? Double check.
5. St John Island
[caption id="attachment_17023" align="alignnone" width="800"] The Lion Raw[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_17022" align="alignnone" width="632"] Evolve Daily)
Also Read: Trick Or Treat In Singapore: The Best 7 Places To Get Spooked This Halloween!
Photography Spots: Bluff Your Friends With These 6 Places That Just Don’t Look Like Singapore
Singapore may be small. We might not have any seven wonders of the world, but our tiny island has pretty spots too! If you’ve liked our previous post of enchanting and secret photography spots, we have curated another list of beautiful photography spots in Singapore to explore!
1. Raffles Marina
[caption id="attachment_11266" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image credit 500px.com, photo by Edward Tian[/caption]Sitting at the end of the pier overlooking Raffles Marina stands Johor Straits lighthouse, otherwise known as Raffles Marina lighthouse. The location is about as far West of Singapore as it can get. You can actually bring your passport and cross over to Malaysia! This lighthouse overlooks Tua Second Link and acts as a guide for yachts navigating into and out of the marina.
Visit during sunset and enjoy the fresh air and sea breeze. You might even get a picturesque photo with a backdrop of a pastel-hued sunset with Malaysia in the background! In addition, within its proximity is the Raffles Marina Club. You can even take photos with the backdrop of expensive yachts! This is certainly one of the best photography spots to add to your list!
Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.724853994314!2d103.63312471521623!3d1.3414475619749187!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31da08b35bc67761%3A0x3df5b75dc56e648c!2sJohor+Straits+Lighthouse!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1468726037814&w=600&h=450]
Location
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2. The White Rabbit
[caption id="attachment_11543" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image credit: antonchia[/caption]Located at Dempsey Hill, The White Rabbit is a restaurant housed in the beautifully restored 1930s Ebenezer chapel. It has a charming garden, which is great for an enchanting photo shoot.
This restaurant lends a whimsical touch to those who seek its delightfully themed surroundings. Based on the story of Alice in Wonderland, this one is for those who love a little whimsy and magic with its gorgeous walkways, delightfully-mismatched furniture and well-manicured lawns.
Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.783820126662!2d103.81134131521637!3d1.304775362080931!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31da1a23a39e4969%3A0xb75306a974f51369!2sThe+White+Rabbit!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1469091862058&w=600&h=450]
3. Botanic Gardens
[caption id="attachment_11526" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image credit: bittersweetbyjoseph[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11528" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image credit: bittersweetbyjoseph[/caption]Known for its beautiful gardens and structures for wedding pictures, here’s another location to consider for your nature photography spots. Arrive early to avoid the crowd and curious stares of on-lookers at Botanic Gardens. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful, soft morning glow of the sun and the peaceful atmosphere for being an early bird!
Although Singapore Botanical Gardens is very large, almost every part of the garden serves as a good backdrop for your shoot. Other than popular photography spots such as Healing Garden, Sun Garden, and The Swan Lake, you can also hunt down hidden photography spots around the garden.
You’ll be amazed at the amount of magical and enchanting photography spots you can find in Botanic Gardens!
Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d15955.077589541981!2d103.8159136!3d1.3138397!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xeadf14903ad3d980!2sSingapore+Botanic+Gardens!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1469093520703&w=600&h=450]
4. Bukit Timah Saddle Club
[caption id="attachment_11518" align="alignnone" width="769"] Image credit: gallerieck.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11519" align="alignnone" width="956"] Image credit: gallerieck.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11523" align="alignnone" width="900"] Image credit: AndroidsinBoots[/caption]Come in the morning and spend a day with these lovely horses. You could even bring along rustic props for country-inspired snaps!
Do note that a fee is required to take a photo shoot with the horses. If you’re not in for paying extra, the spot near the hill is also a great place for a nice shoot. Walk up the hill to the other side and you can find beautiful greenery. In addition, have your brunch at the highly raved brunch spot at Riders cafe!
Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d15954.88917467122!2d103.7972337!3d1.3430172!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x4d847d1cb441d452!2sBukit+Timah+Saddle+Club!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1469089692164&w=600&h=450]
5. Little Guilin
[caption id="attachment_11546" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image credit: Scott KJ Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11539" align="alignnone" width="896"] Image credit: Instagram user @withoutstrings[/caption]Known as Little Guilin or Xiao Guilin, this park is located at Bukit Batok is similar to Guilin in China as a huge granite rock sits within the lake. The park is beautifully landscaped so you can walk along the banks of the lake and take really pretty shots with the gorgeous landscape backdrop.
In addition, the two dome shaped shelters at Little Guilin can act as a beautiful frame to your photo.
Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.7009632370555!2d103.75121091532198!3d1.356023461931909!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31da10481370263d%3A0x7bd52a1da9b519eb!2sLIttle+Guilin!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1468918199643&w=600&h=450]
6. Chinese and Japanese Gardens
[caption id="attachment_11268" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Image credit: Instagram user @nubusaploy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11544" align="alignnone" width="536"] Image credit: Instagram user @leahaldous[/caption]Located just a stone’s throw away from Chinese Garden MRT station, the gardens are picture perfect from every angle. With expansive green lawns, trees, and pagodas, what more can you ask for?
Do visit the gardens in the cooler late afternoon and evening to avoid being scorched under the hot sun.
Location
[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3988.734880136494!2d103.72892241532203!3d1.33528316199264!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x31da1002e7d9f861%3A0x4280db90c68a90fb!2sJapanese+Garden!5e0!3m2!1sen!2ssg!4v1468804926651&w=600&h=450]
Spend your next weekend exploring a whole new part of Singapore you’ve never visited. Get your DSLR ready or simply bring your iphone along and visit these beautiful photography spots!
(Header image by Scott KJ Photography)
Also, read Stuck In Singapore? Here Are 10 Uncommon Places To Visit For A Different Kinda Fun!
Thought You Knew All About Singapore? Here Are 10 Uncommon Places That’ll Guarantee A New Experience
Even if you’re not going abroad, you can look to our very own humble abode for fun things to do and places to explore. Singapore isn’t just about Orchard Road or Gardens by the Bay. We’re almost as sick of these places as you are!
Well, fret not! Come the weekend, you can look forward to something else to do! Here are 10 interesting and uncommon places to visit for a different kind of fun.
1. Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle & Dragon Kiln
[caption id="attachment_11369" align="alignnone" width="600"] Image source: Helmindra[/caption]Dubbed one of Singapore’s most well-kept secrets, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is a place that combines heritage, history, discovery, and fun. It gives vibes of an old museum and you can actually buy proper pottery and art at a reasonable price!
There’s also the Dragon Kiln (a furnace/oven for burning pottery), one of the oldest surviving brick-built kilns in Singapore for wood firing. If you’d like to learn more about pottery, Thow Kwang also hosts a series of workshops that will give you your Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze “Ghost” pottery moment.
[caption id="attachment_11370" align="alignnone" width="594"] Image source: wjleow[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11371" align="alignnone" width="597"] Image source: lioncityboyzach[/caption]- Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle
- Address: 85 Lorong Tawas, off Jalan Bahar
- Contact number: +65 6268 6121
- Operating Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm
- Website: Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle
2. Lazarus Island
[caption id="attachment_11300" align="alignnone" width="600"] Image source: bhevzdelica[/caption]Are you looking for a beach to visit, but find that those at Sentosa are overpopulated? Why not try Lazarus Island instead? Accessible by a causeway from St John’s Island, Lazarus Island is home to an untouched tranquil beach.
You could take a dip in the clear turquoise waters, and bring along a picnic basket for a picnic on the pristine white sand. For the best beaches in Singapore, read this.
[caption id="attachment_11302" align="alignnone" width="599"] Image source: fadz_h[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11303" align="alignnone" width="602"] Image source: jsonlah[/caption]3. The Observatory at Science Centre
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/2-58ZTB_3J/?taken-at=214335698[/embed] [caption id="attachment_11387" align="alignnone" width="596"] Image source: anodization[/caption]Stargazing, anyone? With a location near the equator, Singapore has an advantageous location. It allows stargazers to catch a glimpse of the constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres. If you happen to be in the west, drop by the Science Centre to check out the exhibits and end off your visit with a sky full of stars!
[caption id="attachment_11388" align="alignnone" width="596"] Image source: Image source: xinrongy[/caption]- Science Centre Observatory
- Address: 21 Jurong Town Hall Road, 609433
- Contact number: +65 6425 2500
- Operating Hours: Friday 7:45pm- 10:00pm
- Facebook: SCOB
4. Pulau Ubin
[caption id="attachment_11270" align="alignnone" width="740"] Image source: catching the sunrise, or even catching some fish at a kelong, this island literally spells fun under the sun!It’s a great destination for those who would like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city (especially from the crowd!). Just swap the MRTs for rental bikes and enjoy nature.
[caption id="attachment_11297" align="alignnone" width="514"] Image source: Travelling Our Planet[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11298" align="alignnone" width="599"] Image source: skyblue25[/caption]5. MegaZip Adventure Park
[caption id="attachment_11311" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image source: Sentosa[/caption]Up for an adventure with your buddies? Head down to Sentosa’s MegaZip Adventure Park to get your adrenaline going. Hang 450-metre high up and swing across a jungle, beach, and the sea at a speed of up to 60 kilometres!
Not a fan of swinging across Sentosa? Check out Climb Max, an obstacle course consisting of three levels of aerial ropes at 15 metres high. That sure sounds like the next Singapore Ninja Warrior course!
[caption id="attachment_11328" align="alignnone" width="605"] Image source: xx.staygirls[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11329" align="alignnone" width="478"] Image source: sveta_persik[/caption]- MegaZip Adventure Park
- Address: Imbiah Hill Rd, Sentosa Island, 098967
- Contact number:+65 6884 5602
- Operating Hours: Daily, 11am-7pm
- Entrance fee: $50++
- Website: Image source: Bounce Singapore[/caption]
The thought of hanging around Orchard as something fun to do probably did not cross your mind. But how about bouncing around the latest indoor adventure park that is strategically located in Orchard?
Bounce Singapore is an epic urban playground that consists of interconnected trampolines, Freerun Terrain Park (like the one on American Ninja Warrior), and “Leap of Faith” – jump on a raised platform and leap out to catch hold of the trapeze. Best part of all? It’s indoors and you won’t get sunburnt from all that fun.
[caption id="attachment_11345" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image source: Bounce Singapore[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11346" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image source: Bounce Singapore[/caption]- Bounce Singapore
- Address: Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, #09-01
- Contact number: +65 6816 2879
- Operating Hours: Sun-Thurs (10am – 10pm), Fri-Sat (10am – midnight)
- Entrance fee: $24++ (general admission), $19++(student discount)
- Website: Bounce SG
7. Singapore Botanic Gardens
[caption id="attachment_11381" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image source: Image source: Image source: blognacarona[/caption]- Singapore Botanic Gardens
- Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
- Contact number: +65 6471 7138
- Operating Hours: Daily 5am-12am
- Website: Singapore Botanic Gardens
8. Mint Museum Of Toy
[caption id="attachment_11431" align="alignnone" width="586"] Image source: gridho[/caption]You’re never too young or too old for toys! This toy museum will delight both adults and kids with its vast collection of vintage toys and memorabilia from around the world.
With over 50,000 pieces of vintage toys, this collection is considered one of the finest in the world. Even the five-storey building that houses the museum is a work of art and has gained international recognition at Architectural Awards.
[caption id="attachment_11437" align="alignnone" width="602"] Image source: Javier Wu[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11439" align="alignnone" width="601"] Image source: afiq_castello[/caption]- Mint Museum Of Toys
- Address: 26 Seah Street, 188382
- Contact number: +65 63390660
- Operating Hours: Daily 9:30am-6:30pm
- Entry fee: $15
- Website: Image source: Souce: Image source: The Natural Traveller[/caption]
- Changi Chapel & Museum
- Address: 1000 Upper Changi Rd N, 507707
- Contact number: +65 6214 2451
- Operating Hours: Daily 9:30am-5.00pm (last admission at 4:30pm)
- Entry Fee: Free admission
- Website: Image source: Image source: puripurikan_daus[/caption]
[caption id="attachment_11458" align="alignnone" width="800"] Image source: addgrainonearth[/caption]
- Singapore City Gallery
- Address: 45 Maxwell Rd, The URA Centre, 069118
- Contact number: +65 6321 8321
- Operating Hours: Monday- Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm
- Entry Fee: Free admission
- Website: Singapore City Gallery
With 10 uncommon places to check out with your friends for a different kinda fun (and some really pocket-friendly ones), which one would you visit first? While you’re at it, also check out The Singaporean Bucket List – 10 Challenges You Die Die Must Complete.
Header image source: Tiny Pieces Of Paper & Quirky Imagination Was All It Took For Instagrammer To Make SG Fun Again
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:
[caption id="attachment_11569" align="alignnone" width="750"] 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
[caption id="attachment_11560" align="alignnone" width="805"] Image source: alma[/caption]2. Bacchanalia – HongKong Street
3. Beni – Mandarin Gallery
4. Candlenut -New Bridge Road
5. Corner House – Botanic Gardens
10. Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle – Chinatown Food Complex
11. Jaan, Swissotel – The Stamford
12. Lei Garden – Chijmes
5. Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro – Mandarin Orchard Singapore
[caption id="attachment_11578" align="alignnone" width="600"] Image source: Image source: The First And Only 3 Starred Dining EstablishmentJoël Robuchon Restaurant – Resort World Sentosa
[caption id="attachment_11572" align="alignnone" width="468"] Image source: Image source: Verdict Is Out! Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore For Best Food Under $45Need A Break? Here’re 9 New & Hip Hotels For Your Next Staycay!
1. The South Beach
[caption id="attachment_9319" align="alignnone" width="1000"] Image credit: The South Beach[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9317" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: The South Beach[/caption]If you’re looking for an elaborate stay, the The South Beach
Address: 30 Beach Rd, S189763
Contact:6818 1888
Price: From S$442 per night
2. Hôtel Vagabond
[caption id="attachment_9916" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Hotel Vagabond[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9559" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Hôtel Vagabond[/caption]From its massive gold elephant to the shiny bronze rhinoceros at the reception, the quirky Hotel Vagabond
Address: 39 Syed Alwi Rd, S207630
Contact:6291 6677
Price: From S$209 per night
3. The Club Hotel
[caption id="attachment_9918" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: The Club Hotel[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9329" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: homeanddecor.com.sg[/caption]Head straight to Mr & Mrs Maxwell’s, the bar and lounge at The Club Hotel
Address: 28 Ann Siang Rd, 069708
Contact:6808 2188
Price:From S$268 per night
4. Hotel Jen Tanglin
[caption id="attachment_9325" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Hotel Jen Tanglin[/caption]Image credit: Hotel Jen Tanglin
Based on the imaginary persona of Jen, a professional hotelier, Hotel Jen Tanglin offers a cosy staycation spot at the end of Orchard’s shopping district. With Tumblr-ish quotes printed on its cushions and a lounge that looks more like a cafe than a hotel, Jen offers a charming and personal touch. This is also seen from its dabao (takeaway) box at the buffet, where you can help yourself to a little extra with the courtesy of Jen. They certainly know how to satisfy the auntie in us.
Hotel Jen Tanglin
Address: 1A Cuscaden Rd, 249716
Contact:6738 2222
Price: From $202 per night
5. Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
[caption id="attachment_9930" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa Facebook[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9321" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa Facebook[/caption]The newly refurbished Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
Address: 2 Bukit Manis Road Sentosa, Singapore 099891
Contact:6708 8310
Price: From S$354 per night
6. Hotel YAN
[caption id="attachment_9324" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Hotel Yan[/caption]This industrial-chic hotel has a chill, cafe-like vibe that hipsters will die for. Built from a former industrial warehouse, Hotel YAN
Address: 162 Tyrwhitt Rd, 207581
Contact:6805 1955
Price: From S$104 per night
7. Park Hotel Alexandra
[caption id="attachment_9406" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Park Hotel Alexandra[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9926" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: tripadvisor[/caption]Want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city? Park Hotel Alexandra
Address: 323 Alexandra Road, 159972
Contact:6828 8888
Price: From S$148 per night
8. ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson
[caption id="attachment_9927" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: booking.com[/caption] [caption id="attachment_9557" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson[/caption]Located at the top level of Macpherson Mall, ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson
Address: 401 Macpherson Road Corner of MacPherson & Aljunied Rd, S368215
Contact: 6622 6000
Price: From S$99 per night
9. Oasia Hotel Downtown
[caption id="attachment_9929" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Oasia Hotel Downtown[/caption]Image credit: Oasia Hotel Downtown
With natural foliage and sleek modern designs, Oasia Hotel Downtown
Address: 100 Peck Seah St, 079333
Phone:6812 6900
Price from S$240 per night
Parisian-inspired stays, tropical retreats and more, there’s definitely no lack of new hotels to book a staycation this year. So if you’re too caught up with work for an overseas trip, a staycation is probably the next best thing for a quick getaway.
(Header image credit: original images (in clockwise direction) by Hotel Jen Tanglin, Sofitel Singapore Resort & Spa, , edited by author.)
Also read: 8 Cool Places For An Ultimate Chill Out Weekend At Kampong Glam
Farmers’ Markets in Singapore – Unearthing Their Locations
For a concrete metropolis like Singapore, having plots of farms dedicated to growing our own produce sounds rather incredulous. But in the recent years, there has been a growing trend towards locally-produced food and ingredients harvested or made by our very own Singaporeans. Boasting a slew of environmental and health benefits, many of these local farmers are starting to sell their produce at farmers’ markets.
While this concept might be relatively new here, it is one that has been embraced for a long time by other countries. If you’re planning to lay your hands on some of the freshest produce and locally-made products, try popping by these farmers’ markets that’s sprouting around our little red dot.
Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market
Image credit: Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market
The Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market is the brainchild of the Kranji Countryside Association, which hopes to spread awareness for local agriculture and food sustainability. Through their quarterly held sale, expect stalls from local farm produce, locally-made artisanal food and products and even community workshops suitable for the whole family.
Image credit: Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market
As you shop the premises, strike up a conversation with some of these ‘farmpreneurs’ who’ll be more than happy to share their preparation process or farming practices. Educational shopping? Count me in!
To find out when is their next market, head over to their facebook page.
Bolly Jolly Farmers’ Market
Image credit: Bollywood Veggies
On most weekends on the grounds of Bollywood Veggies, Bolly Jolly Farmers’ Market plays host to a range of vendors selling everything from homemade food products, natural insect repellant and even eco-friendly home cleaning products.
Image credit: Bollywood Veggies
When you’re done shopping, explore the expansive 10 acres farm where you’ll see fruits and vegetables growing at every corner. Otherwise, grab a bite at the Poison Ivy Bistro which incorporates the farm’s produce in their dishes.
To find out more about Bollywood Veggies, head over to their
Image credit: chowandthecity
This cosy farmers’ market held on the third Saturday of every month plays host to different vendors each time. No two visits will be the same, and you can expect more than just the usual fruits and vegetables.
Check out the exact dates of the market on their
Image credit: Open Farm Community
The beautiful grounds of farm-to-table restaurant Open Farm Community transforms into a market at the end of every month. Expect fresh produce from farmers, socially conscious meals and artisanal products made locally.
Image credit: Open Farm Community
They also have a lawn bowl area which is used to engage the community and to conduct workshops ranging from yoga to beekeeping to help raise awareness for sustainable food practices.
For full details of their next market dates, head over to their facebook page.
The Weekend Farm
Image credit: The Weekend Farm
Run by Kok Fah Technology Farm, which is a Singapore based vegetable farm established back in 1979, this longstanding farm in Singapore has now caught up with the modern concept of farmers’ market.
Image credit: The Weekend Farm
Selling varieties of freshly harvested leafy vegetables, dried products, fruits and even potted flowers, this farm is also known for some uncommon varieties which cannot be found in your supermarkets. The Weekend Farm is only opened during weekends and public holidays.
Farmers’ markets make for a great place to shop, and to learn about the local farming and craft community. With many of them holding workshops as well, pop by a farmers’ markets for a different kind of shopping experience that’s unlike what you’ll get in the urban jungle.
(Header image: Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Markets)
Also read: Get Going! Try Something New This Weekend With These 6 Activities