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

Thai Baàng holds a special place in our heart, for we believe that they make one of the best breads in Singapore. This bakery may be small, but the bread they churn out isn’t.

Located in the corner of Kitchener Complex at Lavender, this Thai bakery also recently opened their second outlet at Orchard Xchange.

[caption id="attachment_37288" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Second Outlet at Orchard XChange | Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Tradition Brings Comfort

Following her love for traditional comfort Thai Bread she discovered on a trip to Thailand early 2017, Jovi – owner of Thai Baàng, left her job as a financial advisor to open up this bakery.

After spending a few months in Bangkok to pick up the art of making traditional Thai bread, Jovi opened Thai Baàng in mid-2017.

Particular about the quality of bakes that leaves her bakery, everything is made fresh daily in the kitchen she has in both stores.

With no preservatives or bread softener added, each bread is baked in a tin container to help hold it’s shape and keep it warm, even after sitting out for 30 minutes. This helps to keep the bread soft and fluffy on the inside, creating that soft and chewy texture.

[caption id="attachment_37286" align="aligncenter" width="4032"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

With over 30 flavours of bread in their shop, here are some of their most popular flavours:

Banana Chocolate Bread ($2.70)

[caption id="attachment_37291" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]thai baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

They have a variety of sweet breads but this is perhaps our favourite of them all! The dark chocolate and mashed banana complemented each other well without being overly sweet.

Thai Milk Tea Butter Sugar ($3.00)

[caption id="attachment_37284" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

What’s Thailand without their Thai Milk Tea? If you love Thai Milk tea then this bread is right up your alley. Honestly, we can eat this bread in one sitting.

Thai Milk Tea With Chocolate ($3.00)

[caption id="attachment_37287" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

If the plain one doesn’t cut it for you, then we highly recommend the Thai Milk Tea with Chocolate bread. This is perfect for all chocolate lovers. Just like the Banana Chocolate bread, this option comes with chunks of chocolate in every bite.

What draws us to their bread is that they do not skimp on the ingredients used in their bakes.

Curry Chicken ($2.70)

[caption id="attachment_37300" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]thai baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

This is the perfect alternative to curb your cravings for curry chicken. This bread comes with generous portions of chicken, egg, sausage which blends well with the soft and chewy texture of the bread.

Tom Yam Chicken ($2.70)

[caption id="attachment_37281" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Fresh out of the oven, this bread smelled heavenly and we just couldn’t wait to dig in.

This bread tastes exactly like sipping on a hot, spicy bowl of tom yam soup in BKK.

Mushroom Vege ($2.70)

[caption id="attachment_37285" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Remember those old school bakery that sells mushroom mayo buns?

This option brings back those memories – except that this bread got a whole new upgrade. Put together the savoury mushrooms and crunchy radish along with the soft, fluffy bread, this is the perfect comfort food for kids and adults alike.

Asides from the bread, Thai Baàng also sells other delicacies such as the Chili Shrimp Glutinous Rice ($1.50). Just like how their breads are generously filled, this was no exception as well!

[caption id="attachment_37301" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]thai baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Don’t be fooled by it’s colour as the chilli shrimp is honestly not that spicy! This delicacy has just the right amount of spice and balanced proportion between the chilli shrimp and glutinous rice.

You can also look forward to their selection of cakes.

We love the Banana Chocolate Cake ($7.00) which consists of of a layer of chocolate sponge cake atop a layer of banana cake. Both flavours blended well with each other in this moist cake.

[caption id="attachment_37289" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Last but not least, they also have a selection of Swiss Rolls starting from $5. From Traditional Butter Kaya ($5) to Coffee Rum And Raisin ($5.50), their swiss rolls makes the perfect afternoon tea snack!

[caption id="attachment_37290" align="aligncenter" width="6000"]Thai Baang Image Credit: Discover SG[/caption]

Thai Baàng’s fresh bakes will have you hooked at first bite and are totally worth a trip down! So if you’re looking for an alternative from BreadTalk or Four Leaves, we highly recommend getting the breads from this Thai bakery instead.

Come early and you might just catch a fresh batch out of the oven! You can also give Jovi a call to reserve your breads as they run out fast.

Thai Baàng Bakery (Lavender)
Address: 809 French Road #01-41, Kitchener Complex, Singapore 200809
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 8.30am – 8.30pm, Sat: 8:30am – 8pm, Sun: 9am – 7:30pm
Contact no.: 9722 1213
Website

Thai Baàng Bakery (Orchard Xchange)
Address: 
437 orchard road, B1-37 Orchard MRT Station, Singapore 238878
Directions: Orchard MRT Exit A, head up the escalator on your left and turn right
Opening Hours:
8.30am – 8.30pm, daily
Contact no.: 
9722 1213
Website

Also read An Oldie But A Goodie: Canteen 398 At Seletar Is Possibly The Longest Surviving Canteen In S’pore

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)

A New Character Cafe Is Popping Up In Singapore – And This Time, The Spotlight Is On Miffy

Singapore has seen a spate of character-themed cafes, from Hello Kitty to Gudetama, and my personal favourite, the Pokemon Café. Now, get ready for Miffy the Dutch bunny.

[caption id="attachment_30198" align="aligncenter" width="1231"] Image Credit: Pinterest[/caption]

From 5 October to 31 December, the Miffy cafe x Kumoya will be here in Singapore to bring you meticulously-prepared Japanese dishes featuring the adorable bunny.

The Miffy Menu

Conceptualised by Shirley Wong from Little Miss Bento, who also worked on the Cinnamoroll and Gudetama cafes, the food will not disappoint. Ready your cameras and stomachs because these dishes look super cute.

[caption id="attachment_30199" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Splashing Good Fun Japanese Seafood Curry Rice[/caption]

If you’re as Asian as I am and rice is a must in your meal, then the Splashing Good Fun Japanese Seafood Curry Rice ($24.90) is great for you. Hainanese Chicken Riceball step aside, the bunny riceball is here.

[caption id="attachment_30200" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] You, Me & Miffy makes 3 Chicken Katsu Burger[/caption]

The Miffy burger bun of the You, Me & Miffy makes 3 Chicken Katsu Burger ($18.90) looks absolutely adorable. Potato wedges, a mesclun salad along with the Chicken Katsu burger, and a side of ketchup makes this a rather substantial meal. So if you’re there to eat, this is a good choice.

[caption id="attachment_30201" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Wonderfully Waffles With Karaage Chicken[/caption]

Wonderfully Waffles With Karaage Chicken ($21.90) is a cute take on the traditional Chicken & Waffles, complete with maple syrup on the side. Served with bunny-shaped croutons and carrot slices, the dish is beyond cute.

[caption id="attachment_30202" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Double-Take Salted Caramel Cake ($15.90)[/caption] [caption id="attachment_30203" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Awesome Miffy Orange Sponge Cake ($16.90)[/caption]

Desserts are always a crowd favourite.

The café has a Shibuya Toast variant and a sponge cake which looks a lot like a Panna Cotta. And every dish comes with a Miffy face that stares into your soul.

[caption id="attachment_30204" align="aligncenter" width="731"] Miffy Original Orange Soda[/caption]

Last but definitely not least, is this cotton-candy topped air balloon-esque Miffy Original Orange Soda ($14.90) which looks like it might be blown away with the wind.

The café will also be selling Shirley Wong’s Miffy-themed cookbook, so pick up a copy if you feel like getting down in the kitchen to replicate these Miffy dishes for your own little Insta-session at home.

Prices are upwards of $15 so prepare your wallets. Don’t miss this pop-up cafe as Miffy will only be here for a limited time!

Miffy Café x Kumoya
Address: 8 Jalan Klapa, Singapore 199320
Opening Hours: Sun – Fri: 12pm – 9.30pm; Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm; Closed on Mon
Contact No.: 6297 3727
Facebook

Also read Because Cards Are So Passé, This Site Lets You Send A Message On An Eggplant

Your Room Will Smell Absolutely Scent-sational Once You Light Up These Candles

Candles come in so many shapes, sizes and smells, you can never have one too many!

Let’s face it, candles are pretty versatile and should become a necessity in every house.Not only to they do beautify your room, the scents they give off when lit will soothe your frazzled nerves and can freshen up any room almost immediately.

Plus, candles come in super handy if you are planning a romantic night in (if you know what I mean).

We waded through the tons of options out there and chose some of the more interesting scents that will make your house smell absolutely scent-sational.

1. Bath & Body Works – But First, Coffee! 

[caption id="attachment_30034" align="alignnone" width="1006"] Is it the coffee or the smell of coffee that wakes you up? (Image Credit: Where to get it: at Takashimaya or The Shoppes @ Marina Bay Sands
A clean, minimalistic addition for your candle collection (Image Credit: Glasshouse via Naiise)[/caption]

Revel in the smells of thatched bungalows and the salty sea breeze with Glasshouse‘s tropical scent.

The flowery yet tangy smells courtesy of cilantro, tangerine and orange blossoms will leave you with the thoughts of clear sandy beaches when you are actually in a hot and stuffy HDB flat.

Where to get it: Naiise outlets or online
Website

3. fresh – Sake

[caption id="attachment_30046" align="alignnone" width="490"] Image Credit: 4. Artisan’s Garden – Citronella Candle 

[caption id="attachment_30048" align="alignnone" width="720"] De-stress and de-mozzie (Image Credit: Artisan’s Garden)[/caption]

The Citronella Candle caught my nose with its grassy, floral smell that reminds me of the clean smell of wet grass.

Not only is citronella said to help reduce stress when used in aromatherapy, it also works as a mosquito repellent! Perfect for our tropical weather.

Artisan’s Garden sells the this candle in a small travel tin so that you can easily carry it around if you are thinking of going camping or traveling to tropical countries.

Where to get it: online
Use the holder to store trinkets once it’s finished (Image Credit: 6. NARS – Acapulco

[caption id="attachment_30051" align="alignnone" width="1196"] All candles come with the logo on it! (Image Credit: Beautyfreshfave)[/caption]

Yes, this is the same beauty brand that you find in Sephora. Not many people are aware that NARS carry candles (mainly because they don’t bring it to Singapore), which you have to buy through the NARS US website or Amazon.

And yes, the shipping fee is definitely worth it, because the candles can seriously compete with their make up range. My pick would be Acapulco, a chocolate-based candle that comes layered with traces of whipped cream and coffee beans. It’s delicious, but not overly sweet – kind of like dark chocolate.

Where to get it: NARS US website or Amazon
Such brew-tiful smells (Image Credit: TWG Tea)[/caption]

Another underrated candle from a brand that specialises in selling something else!

If you love the smell of your TWG tea, you can now get their candle version so that you can enjoy the delicious smells without having to brew a pot.

Their White Earl Grey Tea Scented Candle is a fresh, raw fragrance of bergamot and imperial silver needles that smells as good as it tastes.

Where to get it: online
Choose your poison of choice! (Image Credit: Spicy Orange And Hot Peppers Scent and Marijuanna-Weed Scent that you will be hard pressed to find anywhere else.

Where to get it: online or through Etsy
Also read Gifs Are A Legit Art Form, And This Festival Dedicated To Them Proves It

(Header Image Source: Pinterest)

These 10 Places Serve Waffles That Are Sweet, Savoury, And Batter Than The Rest

Waffles are such a versatile food. You can have them sweet or savoury, and you can have them any time of the day.

Although they can be found everywhere, not all waffles are created equal. The perfect waffle is fragrant, light, with just the right amount of crunch. From taro waffles to Korean fried chicken waffles, here is a list of the best waffles in Singapore. Try not to salivate while reading.

For those with a sweet tooth,

1. Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe

Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe is probably one of the more underrated cafes selling waffles in Singapore. Their waffles are baked to the perfect level of crispiness, while remaining moist within, and the texture of the waffle is consistent throughout.

[caption id="attachment_27452" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Pandan Ice Cream with Gula Melaka Sauce Whoa’ffles (Image Credit: Burpple User Doreen Tan)[/caption]

The Pandan Ice Cream with Gula Melaka Sauce Whoa’ffles ($9.50) was rich with local flavours. Instead of honey or chocolate sauce, Hatter Street drizzles Gula Melaka over the waffles. The Pandan Ice Cream was a nice accompaniment, with its light pandan fragrance. The waffle was perfect for soaking up the mixture of Gula Melaka and the melted scoop of creamy ice cream.

Hatter Street Bakehouse & Cafe
Address: 212 Hougang Street 21,#01-333, Singapore 530212
Opening Hours: Daily, 1pm – 10pm
Chocolate Root Beer Float Waffle (Image Credit: Burpple User Cafehoppingkids .)[/caption]

The Chocolate Root Beer Float Waffle ($12) is an aesthetically pleasing dessert creation. The rectangular waffle comes with a chocolate chip cookie, and an ash grey charcoal vanilla soft serve to top it all off. The charcoal soft serve had a hint of root beer in every mouthful, which did not overwhelm the original vanilla taste.

[caption id="attachment_27180" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Burpple User Jayson Yeoh [/caption]

Because Red Velvet is so 2015, The Cold Pantry has taken their waffles to the next level by introducing Pink Velvet Waffles with Baileys Coffee Ice Cream and Sea Salt Caramel drizzle ($13.50). The rose-infused waffle and slightly bitter Baileys Coffee Ice Cream combo is a sure-win on two fronts: your stomach and your Instagram feed.

The Cold Pantry
Address: 88 Rangoon Road, #01-01, Singapore 218374
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 4pm – 10pm; Sat – Sun: 12pm – 1opm
Website

3. Froth

[caption id="attachment_27686" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Image Credit: Burpple User Thechoyalicious 🙂[/caption]

Served with one scoop of gourmet ice cream, the Taro Waffles ($15.90) has a rich taro taste, with beautiful purple hues. The waffle screams “Taro Heaven” as there was taro infused within the batter, and a generous spread of yam paste all over the buttery waffles. While the ice cream is nothing too special, the waffles more than made up for it.

Froth Cafe
Address: Ascott Raffles Place Singapore, 2 Finlayson Green, Level 2, Singapore 049247
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 11.30am – 10pm; PH: 11.30am – 5pm; Closed on Sun
Image Credit: Facebook

5. PrimaDeli

PrimaDeli serves some of the best affordable waffles in Singapore. Done in a traditional Singaporean style, the waffles are dense and soft on the inside. They’re made fresh and right before your eyes when you order, so you can munch on them while they’re nice and warm.

[caption id="attachment_27455" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Image Credit: Some recommended flavours are the old school Kaya Waffle ($1.70) and the cannot-go-wrong Peanut Butter Waffle ($1.80). Classic, tasty, and oh-so-nostalgic, these waffles are the perfect comfort food to take with you on the go.

PrimaDeli
Address: City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road #B1-K09, Singapore 208539
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am – 10pm
For adventurous tastebuds,

6. Revelry

[caption id="attachment_27457" align="aligncenter" width="960"] The Revelry Signature Burffle (Image Credit: theurbanwire)[/caption]

For those of you who prefer your waffles savoury instead of sweet, Revelry is the place for you. They serve ‘Burffles’, a cross between burgers and waffles. The Revelry Signature Burffle ($18) comes with juicy beef patties, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese sandwiched between crispy waffles. The waffle quarters are crisp and light, making the dish less heavy on the stomach.

[caption id="attachment_27186" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Waffles Royale (Image Credit: Revelry Facebook)[/caption]

The Waffles Royale ($17.50) is a spin on the classic all-day breakfast favourite, Eggs Royale, but with a waffle in place of the usual English muffin. The waffle has a light, fluffy texture and with its subtle flavour, pairs nicely with the runny poached eggs and creamy Hollandaise.

Revelry
Address: 21 Lorong Kilat, #01-02, Singapore 598123
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Friday: 11am – 10pm; Sat – Sun: 10am – 10pm; Closed on Tue
Facebook

7. Griddy

Imagine old school waffles but with chunks of succulent meat piled into it. That’s what Griddy specialises in – savory waffles for adventurous foodies.

[caption id="attachment_27188" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Griddy Burger (Image Credit: Griddy Facebook)[/caption]

The Griddy Burger ($9.90) is generously stuffed with a juicy beef patty and black pepper mushrooms. With a relatively thin and buttery waffle, this waffle burger hybrid is a real crowd-pleaser.

[caption id="attachment_27189" align="aligncenter" width="639"] Ocean Catch (Image Credit: Griddy Facebook)[/caption]

Alternatively, try the Ocean Catch ($7.90). The golden brown fish fillet is tender, with bonito flakes and mayonnaise scattered and splattered over it. Fish and Chips lovers should definitely give this a try as the Ocean Catch is a unique twist on savoury waffles.

Griddy
Address: Westgate, 3 Gateway Drive, #B2-K12, Singapore 608532
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu, Sun: 11am – 10pm; Fri – Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
8. The Beast [caption id="attachment_27458" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Chicken & Waffles (Image Credit: 9. 23 Jumpin

Am I the only one who eats pizza without the crust? For those of you who shun the pizza crusts like I do, why not try the waffle ‘pizza’ at 23 Jumpin?

[caption id="attachment_27193" align="aligncenter" width="2448"] Image Credit: Image Credit: Burpple User Alexander Chiew[/caption]

And if you want the best of both worlds? Simply opt for the half-half option of Mushroom and Hawaiian!

23 Jumpin
Address: The Commerze Building, 1 Irving Place, 01-25, Singapore 369546
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun: 11am – 9pm; Mon: 11am – 2pm
Website

10. Stateland Asian-Fusion Cafe

Many of you may know Stateland Asian-Fusion Cafe for their Red Velvet or S’mores Waffles, but how many of you have tried their newest creation–the Korean Fried Chicken Waffle?

[caption id="attachment_27459" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Korean Fried Chicken Waffle (Image Credit: Burpple User Phoebe Ting)[/caption]

The chicken was nicely fried, with a crispy outer layer and tender meat on the inside. Paired with a waffle that was tossed in cinnamon, this is a dish that we daresay even the Koreans can’t re-create.

Also, the kimchi slaw that is served on the side is so rich with flavour, you’ll be wishing there was more of it!

Stateland Asian-Fusion Cafe
Address: 32 Bali Lane, Singapore 189866
Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 12pm – 10pm; Tue: 6pm – 10pm
Website

No matter your personal preference when it comes to waffles, I’m sure we can all agree that waffles can bring a smile to your face any day. So, text your friends and jio them out for a waffle date if your stomachs are up for it!

Also read 9 New Desserts So Wacky, You Need To Try Them At Least Once!

Singapore: Asia’s Monte Carlo

Singapore is fast becoming the Monte Carlo of Asia and is often similarly described as the playground for the rich. Just 684 square kilometers in size, Singapore is the smallest country in Southeast Asia and at a mere 2 square kilometers, Monaco is also punching well above its weight. The Asian country shares many characteristics of its European counterpart.

Singapore can boast a low crime rate, a green environment, and an enviable public transportation system. It is considered a great place to live (and in both countries, the life expectancy is over 85 years) as well as work and play, a description that is also attributed to Monaco.

[caption id="attachment_26822" align="alignnone" width="1936"] Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

In the 1970s, the Singapore Tourism Board started marketing the city as a venue for conventions and other organized events to increase occupancy rates. Eventually, occupancy rose as high as 90%, as a result. Singapore’s manufacturing sector is dwindling, but the services industries, which have been encouraged to thrive, have continued to create jobs. The World Bank has dubbed it one of the world’s “easiest places to do business” as there is high transparency, reliability, and a pro-business government. Singapore also increased its attractions within the last 10 years to include a Universal Studios theme park, gaming establishments, and the famed Singapore Flyer, a huge Ferris wheel experience with air-conditioned pods.

[caption id="attachment_26823" align="alignnone" width="1725"] Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Singapore also enjoys a thriving street racing industry. The Marina Bay Street Circuit even closely resembles Monaco, drivers claim, so enthusiasts compete on a stage that feels right at home. The Singapore Grand Prix is Formula One racing’s original night race, run on a 5.073-kilometer street track through the city’s heart. The race is held at night to avoid the blistering temperatures of the day.

[caption id="attachment_26824" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Singapore, like Monte Carlo, is also famous for its food festivals like the month-long food festival that was born in 1994 and is now an annual event organized by the Singapore Tourism Board. International chefs travel from all over the world to showcase delightful food to suit every palette. Clearly, Singapore is seeking to wrest that title of Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]

Singapore also possesses a unique and diverse culture that will help attract the adventurous food lovers to its shores. Modern Singaporean culture (mod-Sin) merges with contemporary dining and is enriched by the Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western influences.

The safety and cleanliness of the country are comparable to Monte Carlo. Spitting in the street and chewing gum are unheard of. Green spaces are also being created in Singapore, and the country received its first sought-after UNESCO World Heritage nomination for the botanic gardens and

10 ‘Die Die Must Try’ Events And Eats To Rev Up Your First Half Of June [1-15 June]

Aaand it’s finally June!

If you’re in school, that means the long awaited June holiday break. If not, there’s always the weekend to spend some quality time with your loved ones.

With a whole bunch of exciting events to go to and new eats to sample, this month’s line-up of events surely does not disappoint!

Think fun festivals of all kinds, shopping till you drop at The Great Singapore Sale, and new cafe openings. Whether you’re a beach bum, die-hard foodie or someone who appreciates great music, we’ve got some ideas on how you can spend your weekend!

Here are 10 activities you need to head down to ASAP!

Play & Discover

1. Faber-Castell Art Festival

It’s time to pick up your colouring pencils again!

Faber-Castell, the makers of brilliant pencils and creative goods, adds colour to the month with its first ever art festival.

[caption id="attachment_26604" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: These include lessons on fashion illustration, brush calligraphy, hand-lettering, and watercolour painting. You can also bond with family over art competitions, badge making, and mind mapping.

There will also be an art exhibition, where proceeds from the sale of artworks will be donated to the Singapore Children’s Cancer Foundation.

Make sure you nose around the huge spread of Faber-Castell products on sale too!

Faber-Castell Art Festival
Where: Singapore ION Orchard #04-13 & Marina Square #02-190A, 6 Raffles Boulevard, S039594
When: 27 May – 4 June, 11am – 9pm daily
Contact no.: 6339 8787

If you remember watching Channel 8’s The Little Nyonya, you’ll jump at this chance to be part of that world.

The Peranakan Festival offers the most immersive chance to learn about the vibrant Straits Chinese culture in Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_26611" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: The Peranakan Festival[/caption]

Expect a slew of performances, including the traditional Dondang Sayang, a humourous love ballad.

Kids will love the arts and crafts workshops, where they’ll learn stamp carving, silk screen printing and book cover art. You’ll also get to have fun dressing up and taking pictures in Nyonya or Baba traditional kebayas!

Try your hand at making (or wolfing down) traditional desserts, Nasi Ulam, sireh and betel nut, at the cooking classes and food tastings here.

Finally, sit down for high tea with the less privileged elderly and children from Lengkong Bahru and beneficiaries from Prison Fellowship Singapore, and learn the heart of the Peranakan community.

Peranakan Festival
Where: Claymore Connect, 442 Orchard Rd, S238879
When: May 27 – June 17, 11am – 6pm
Contact no.: 6262 4428
Lo And Behold Group Festival

This one’s for those who live for decadent food and extravagant parties.

Lo & Behold’s month-long festival shows us Singaporeans how to party with class and style!

[caption id="attachment_26610" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Image Credit: Party like Grace Kelly at Electroball: The Golden Age of Hollywood, at swanky 1930s bistro-bar The Black Swan. Or head to OverEasy Orchard, for a Riverdale-themed bash!

If you’d rather eat than party, catch an epic Pizza-Off happening at Extra Virgin Pizza. As part of the festivities, Tanjong Beach Club will also be serving up an All You Can Eat Bottomless Brunch.

If you want to learn a little something, The Rabbit Hole will be playing host to a snazzy Gin Workshop, so bottoms up!

Lo And Behold Group Festival
Where: Various locations
When: 29 May – 25 June
Contact no.: 6338 8035
Website

4. DBS Marina Regatta

Been dreaming of the perfect beach getaway, but haven’t got the time to go?

Well, DBS brings the beach to you at this year’s DBS Marina Regatta, Singapore’s first and only urban pop-up beach!

[caption id="attachment_26607" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image Credit: DBS Marina Regatta[/caption]

Held at Marina Bay, there’ll be plenty to do, eat and drink–like a real beach, but better.

Laze around in hammocks with an ice cold cocktail in hand (we recommend one from Potato Head’s Coconut Bar), take yoga classes hosted by lululemon, or get your blood pumping by tackling Singapore’s largest inflatable water obstacle course.

DBS Marina Regatta 2017
Where: The Promontory@Marina Bay
When: 1 – 4 June | (1 June) 4pm – 9pm; (2, 3, 4 June) 10am – 10pm
Remember how much you loved listening to stories as a kid?

StoryFest brings that spark back, with a showcase of the best storytelling from Singapore and around the world.

[caption id="attachment_26612" align="aligncenter" width="1400"] Image Credit:
StoryFest SG[/caption]

There are workshops and performances for everyone–kids, adults, and aspiring storytellers themselves!

Families will be transported to faraway lands at Enchanted Tales, which features folk and fairy tales from Russia, Africa and France.

Adults too can choose from a selection of adult audience shows, including a monologue and a story slam in the Singapore Showcase.

There’s even a workshop where you can learn to use stories to build emotional literacy in children, and one where the audience themselves are used to form a story.

It’ll surely be a happy ending to the day, no matter which you choose!

International Storytelling Storyfest
Where: The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane, S179429
When: 2 – 4 June
Contact no.: 6332 6919
Website

6. Beerkini Rocks

Beach, beer, bands and babes…

That, and a whole lot more, is what you’ll find at Bikini Bar’s quarterly beach party, Beerkini Rocks!

[caption id="attachment_26603" align="aligncenter" width="2270"] Image Credit: Music fans can look forward to rock classics and chart-toppers by talented local rock and alternative acts O.K Ready! and Rockweller.

Also not to be missed are their crazy drink offers, with Jaeger Shots at $8, Monster Bombs at $9, and Buckets of Bintang going at $40.

Bikini Babes will also be challenging rock and rollers to exciting beach games with prizes to be won!

Beerkini Rocks
Where: Bikini Bar 50 Siloso Beach Walk #01-01, Singapore, S099000
When: 3 June, 3.00pm – 11.30pm
Contact no: 6631 8938
Bangkok’s famous April’s Bakery has finally opened in Singapore!

And it’s serving up Hong Kong-style Lao Po Bing (Wife Cake) with a twist.

Choose between sweet and savoury options depending on your mood–both are stuffed with flavourful, colourful fillings, wrapped in a thin, flaky crust.

For an afternoon snack, try the fragrant Pork with Gravy, or the subtly sweet Pork with Honey.

For dessert, get the Thai Milk Tea, Green Tea, or go for the popular Taro (with a hidden gingko nut within!) and Pumpkin flavours.

These Cantonese-style pies are handmade and baked fresh daily to ensure they taste great, and they’re all priced at only $2 each!

We suggest you head down early, because the yummier flavours get snapped up real quick.

April’s Bakery
Where: April’s Bakery Singapore, Tampines MRT Station, #01-31, S529538
Opening Hours: 8.00am – 10.00pm, or till sold out (Mon-Sun)
Contact no.: 8122 7604
This newest addition to the themed cafe scene may be the most magical one yet.

The quirky Enchanted Cafe charms at first sight with its beautiful decor, complete with a magical garden and collection of spell books.

[caption id="attachment_26606" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit:
Enchanted Cafe[/caption]

But what’s most striking is the presentation of its dishes.

Think: Bright red cherry compote, blackberries and blueberries in a vivid splash against a deep blue plate, sprinkled with seemingly handpicked bits of nuts and leaves. That’s what makes up the tangy, yet sweet Berries Compote French Toast ($14.90).

For something traditional with a twist, there’s the Ngoh Hiang Burger ($18.90), which is exactly what it sounds like, complete with bits of water chestnut and black garlic sauce made from scratch.

The most instagramable thing here is the Sorcerer’s Elixir ($9.90), a blue drink that turns glittery purple after an orange liquid is added.

This has to be the most enchanting cafe to open since the Harry Potter Cafe.

Enchanted Cafe
Where: Rangoon Road, Singapore 218374
Opening Hours: Closed on Mon; Tue: 10am – 10pm; Wed – Thur: 12pm – 10pm; Fri: 11am – 11pm; Sat: 10am – 11pm; Sun: 9am – 8pm
Contact no.: 8813 1086
Facebook

Shop

9. PC Show

Maybe you’ve been thinking of swapping out your laggy PC for a new one.

Well, there’s no better time than the annual PC Show!

[caption id="attachment_26608" align="aligncenter" width="1170"] Image Credit: Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, S018956
When: 1 – 4 June, 12pm – 9pm
Contact no.: 6299 8633
Shopping. Many of us do a whole lot of it–often, more than we should.

Well, a 10 week period starting from 9 June just gave us even more reason to do so!

[caption id="attachment_26609" align="aligncenter" width="1480"] Image Credit:
Your Singapore[/caption]

For both tourists and locals alike, there’s no better time to hit the stores than during the Great Singapore Sale!

This is the time when retail stores in Singapore feature their greatest sales and markdowns.

Had your eye on a dress, but couldn’t bear to part with that kind of cash? We say it’s now or never.

Stretch your dollar and fill those shopping bags with bargains of all kinds–from fashion to jewellery, electronics to toys, to spa treatments, hotel stays, food, and visits to local attractions!

The Great Singapore Sale
Where: All over Singapore!
When: 9 June – 13 August
The Projector: How An Abandoned Theatre Became An Artsy Alternative Cinema

Ho Seh Liao! The Govt Is Giving Out S$120M To Help Out HDB Homeowners

The Ministry of Finance announced today that around 880,000 Singapore HDB households can expect to receive $120 million worth of Service & Conservancy Charges (S&CC) rebates in FY2017.

This rebate is intended to provide additional support to households and will be used to offset a household’s S&CC payment directly.

Each eligible Singaporean household will receive 1.5 – 3.5 months of S&CC rebate, depending on your HDB flat type. This rebate will be disbursed through the months of April 2017, July 2017, October 2017, and January 2018.

[caption id="attachment_24550" align="alignnone" width="720"] S&CC Rebate for FY2017[/caption]

Eligible households will receive a letter from end March with further details on the rebate.

Also read, 10 Awesome Activities To Kick Start Your April [1-15 April]

11 Amazing Activities, Food & Events To Wrap Up Your January

We’re midway through another month. But this month isn’t just any ordinary month – it’s the first month of 2017, and it’s coming to an end. Time sure flies. We hope 2017 has been good to you so far. But if not, we’ve got you covered.

With Chinese New Year right around the corner and Singapore Art Week in full swing, Singapore is bustling with amazing activities, food, and events.

Whether you’re an art lover who loves nosing around museums, a dedicated foodie on the hunt for the newest food creations, or a shopaholic – we’ve got it all laid out. There’re even chances to do good and give back to the community while you’re at it. What better way to start the new year right, right?

Here’s a calendar of 11 fun things to do from 15 – 31 January 2017!

Play & Discover

1. Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass

Into The Looking Glass explores the struggles of youths with chronic illnesses. Despite the odds, they accomplish feats every day.

Immerse yourself in their visual artworks and expect to come out seeing the world afresh with an open mind.

You’ll be supporting local artists, viewing a stunning array of unique artworks, hearing touching stories, and ending discrimination all in one. Need we say more?

Into The Looking Glass
Date: 9 Dec 2016 – 22 Jan 2017
Opening Hours: Mondays to Sundays, 10am – 7pm; Fridays, 10am – 9pm
Admission: Free
Venue: 71 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189555, SAM Gallery 3.7
Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss

2. Singapore Art Week

Singapore Art Week has seen a week of artists, designers, musicians, dancers and art-lovers coming together. Exhibitions, festivals and tours are placed all over the island.

[caption id="attachment_21645" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image credit: Singapore Art Week[/caption]

The week hasn’t ended yet! You can still view Lock Route (till 30 June), participate in Printmaking (till 22 Jan) and stand in awe of Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre (till 31 Jan), just to name a few.

This weekend, Singapore Art Museum will also celebrate Singapore Art Week with a festive party of guided tours, artist performances, live music sessions, an art market, a street picnic, and more.

Singapore Art Week
Date: 11 to 22 Jan 2017
Venue: All over the island
Website

Also, read Dying Art Culture? Nope. Here’s What To Expect During Singapore Art Week 2017

3. St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival

The annual St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival is back for the seventh year in Singapore! It’s the ultimate music festival not to be missed.

[caption id="attachment_21631" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image credit: St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival[/caption]

The festival will feature an indie music line-up: from Singapore’s home-grown Sam Rui and T-Rex, to UK’s Glass Animals

Be prepared for a 14 hour long party of thirty eclectic gigs, yummy food and all-around awesome vibes.

St Jerome’s Laneway Festival
Date: Saturday, 21 Jan 2017
Venue: The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay
Tickets: $185 each for Standard Tickets, $166.50 each for Group Bundle, $200 each for Door Sales
Image credit: The Culture Trip[/caption]

The Projector will be flashing a collection of films by Palestinian film-makers and artists, each with their own stories and narratives to tell.

The Singapore Palestinian Film Festival
Date: 19-22 Jan 2017
Venue: The Projector
Address: 6001 Beach Road #05-00 Golden Mile Tower, Singapore 199589
Image credit: gbtimes[/caption]

Over 30 artworks from contemporary artists from Singapore and all over the world will be showcased.

The exhibition also marks the launch of Parkview Museum, Singapore’s newest art space.

On Sharks and Humanity
Date: 19-31 Jan 2017
Opening hours: 11am-7pm
Venue: Parkview Museum
Address: L3 Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 188778
Admission: Free
Image credit: Honolulu Cafe[/caption]

The tart’s silky smooth bean curd is made from scratch, and encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry.

You can get the new ‘Yuan Yang’ set for only $5.00 (Usual Price at $7.60). Offer lasts till 26 January 2017.

Honolulu Café
Address: The Centrepoint #01-33F/G
Opening hours: 11am to 10pm daily
Facebook
Instagram (Singapore)

7.  Torikin’s Uni Hotpot

The mouth-watering picture says it all. To celebrate the Chinese New Year (CNY), Torikin is introducing a lavish and sumptuous Uni Hotpot.

[caption id="attachment_21614" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image credit: Torikin[/caption]

With large portions of uni (sea urchin) flown in from Japan, shabu-style prawns, scallops, salmon and tuna, this is the ideal prosperity pot to indulge in over CNY.

Torikin
Address: 557 Bukit Timah Road #01-14/16 Crown Centre, Singapore 269694
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Sat-Sun: 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Facebook
Price: Uni hotpot at $86.90 per pax

8. Mak’s Noodle’s New Menu

Michelin-starred Mak’s Noodle, famous for its classic springy noodles and prawn wontons, has launched a new menu touting “the bigger, the better”.

[caption id="attachment_21635" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Image credit: Mak’s Noodles[/caption]

The five new dishes offered contain carefully chosen ingredients. Think shiitake mushrooms and king prawns. The vegetables are also boiled with higher stem to leaves ratio for extra flavour.

These are surely dishes to bring in prosperity, cheer and longevity in the new year!

Mak’s Noodle
Opening hours: 11am to 10pm
Facebook
Locations:
Centre Point
176 Orchard Road, Centre Point, #01-63/64, Singapore 238843
Tel: 62355778
Email: [email protected]

Westgate
3 Gateway Dr, #02-06 , Singapore 608532 Tel: 6250 3858
Email: [email protected]

Vivocity
1 Harbourfront Walk #B2-27 & 27A Singapore 098585
Tel: 6358 2582
Email: [email protected]

9. MacDonald’s Golden Prosperity Burger

With new items and classic favourites, McDonald’s inspires families to relive CNY traditions with a modern twist.

[caption id="attachment_21569" align="aligncenter" width="837"] Image credit: MacDonald’s[/caption]

The familiar and yummy Prosperity Burger is back for the new year! This year, you can even enjoy some crunch by ordering the Golden Prosperity Burger, which has a whole hashbrown in it.

Pair the burger with our all-time-favourite Twister Fries, Sweet BBQ Drumlets, or Gula Melaka McFlurry.

[caption id="attachment_21647" align="aligncenter" width="2162"] Image credit: MacDonald’s[/caption]

Do you find visiting a bore? These limited edition orange bags and red packets will not only perk you up, but they’ll be a talking point at every gathering.

McDonald’s Chinese New Year 2017
Must-try:
Golden Prosperity Burger, BBQ Drumlets, Gula Melaka McFlurry with Rainbow Bites
Must-have: Orange bags (top-up $5 for one) and red packets (6 Ang Pao packets with every Golden Prosperity extra value meal)
Date: From 12 January, while stocks last
For more details, head here.

Shopping

1. Tanjong Goodman’s Weekend Market

What a flea market! With arts and crafts, pre-loved collectors items and eco-friendly lifestyle products, there’s really something for everyone.

[caption id="attachment_21636" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Image credit: SG Now[/caption]

Besides that, there’ll also be shows and visual art displays, and interactive workshops with artists too.

The Tanjong Goodman Weekend Market promises a day of adventure. 

Tanjong Goodman Weekend Market
Date: 21 – 22 Jan 2017
Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm
Venue: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Singapore 439053
Website 

2. The Local People X Singapore Land Authority Duct Tape Party

Trust The Local People to come up with this edgy art market – and with the Singapore Land Authority, no less.

[caption id="attachment_21637" align="aligncenter" width="1670"] Image credit: YourSingapore[/caption]

Expect a public art project using duct tape, movie screenings on the ceiling (to be watched while you’re lying on your back on mats and cushions), live music acts, and food trucks.

Also, do your part for charity at the Food From The Heart food donation drive.

TLP X SLA Duct Tape Party
Date: 21st Jan 2017, Saturday
Time: 7 pm – 1 am
Location: Under The West Coast Viaduct, at the crossroads between Clementi Road and West Coast Ferry Road

It’s obvious that there’s a whole line up of new and fresh activities to check out before January ends. Surely, you can’t complain about running out of things to do this month.

Festivals, food, and a whole lot of fun are everywhere. So much such that we’re almost not sure where to start! But one thing is for sure, no matter what you’re interested in, there’s something for you.

It’s only the start of the year, but there’s already so much to do. If you’re ready to end off the month fabulously, check out these events and have a blast!

(Header image credit: Straatosphere)

Also, read Dying Art Culture? Nope. Here’s What To Expect During Singapore Art Week 2017

Five Reasons Why You Should Try Parkour At Least Once In Your Life

From scaling walls to jumping from rooftop to rooftop, the action movie junkie in us has always admired the stunts performed by the spies/secret agents. But as someone who feels a sense of achievement from just walking on the balancing beam at the fitness corner downstairs without falling, we sort of put our dreams of joining the spy-hood behind. That was until we were given the chance to attend a Parkour class.

Our ambassadors, Chelsea and Cheryl, attended the class too. Here’s a video of their experience:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BN4Ih55DygN/?taken-by=cherzinga

A French invented sport that focuses on overcoming obstacles in urban environments through running, jumping or climbing, Parkour is definitely not for the non-nimble. It’s sort of like a mandatory sport for spies in training.

[caption id="attachment_20165" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Tan Chi Ying, one of Singapore’s Parkour pioneers and founder of A2 Movements[/caption]

As we stood in the company of Tan Chi Ying, one of the pioneers of Singapore Parkour scene and founder of The Free Runner Lodge, an indoor Parkour facility, resembles a playground without stairs (who needs them when you can swing/climb/flip your way around, right?). Established in 2010, A2 Movements is Singapore’s first Parkour academy.

[caption id="attachment_20166" align="alignnone" width="1000"] The Free Runner Lodge – An indoor Parkour facility by A2 Movments[/caption]

After a couple of stretches, we stood face-to-face with a wooden block that was half our height.

Our mission was to place both our hands on the block’s surface before swinging our legs over and bringing our whole body over the obstacle. Sounds pretty doable, right? Wrong.

After multiple bruises the size of eggs on our legs, we’ve got to say, it definitely is not as easy as action movie stars make it out to be. It’s been a long introduction, so here are five reasons why Parkour will keep us coming back for more (bruises).

1. It’s A Great Workout

Never, ever underestimate the power of Parkour to work your muscles.

After an embarrassing half hour trying Parkour and using muscles we didn’t know existed, we were exhausted.

[caption id="attachment_20168" align="alignnone" width="1616"] Students in training[/caption]

So if you’re starved for time or are just looking to try a new workout, try Parkour.

2. It Pushes You Out Of Your Comfort Zone

As the Parkour session progressed, we found ourselves pushing our boundaries and achieving something we never thought was possible.

[caption id="attachment_20199" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Parkour puts your body to the test[/caption]

Most of us are right-handers, and we’re never good at using the left hand for anything. After some practice (and persuasion), not only did we manage to use our left hands to support our body weight, we were surprisingly comfortable with it.

3. It’s Really, Really Fun

It’s one thing to watch your favorite actors (or stuntmen) perform the stunts, and another to actually sort of perform them. Not only is it enjoyable, but the sense of achievement upon completion is also really high. Imagine doing this:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R51FaRPCio0

Of course, tons of practice is needed, but how fun did that look? Super.

4. It’s a Solo Sport

Much like hitting the gym, Parkour focuses on you and you only. When we first stepped into class, we were surrounded by existing students who were too busy practicing their mid-air flips to notice our building nervousness. Die, sure kenna judge.

[caption id="attachment_20200" align="aligncenter" width="960"] No one’s judging here[/caption]

But as the session progressed, it hit us that firstly, everyone is here to learn. Secondly, everyone else is too busy perfecting their own moves to bother about you.

5. It Keeps One Unbelievably Young

Despite Chi Ying’s jaw-dropping consecutive midair somersaults, what really made our jaws drop was his age.

[caption id="attachment_20169" align="alignnone" width="1367"] How many of us can soar through the air like this after we hit the big three O?[/caption]

When asked for his secret to looking almost ten years younger than his actual age, Parkour was the answer. For those who are wondering, Chi Ying is 30 years old.

It may require a lot of practice, but Parkour has got to be one of the most satisfying sports around.

For those who are interested, the good news is that A2 Movements holds classes every day of the week and has various time slots for you to choose from! If you’re undecided about a long-time commitment ($200 for unlimited sessions a month), fear not – A2 Movements offers a one off-session ($25). As for the ladies, you’ll be glad to know that there’s a time slot reserved just for you.

Personal trainings aside, A2 Movements also conducts workshops and events, so if you’re looking for a unique corporate bonding experience, free to check Now, here’s your chance to win a Parkour session for two!

Head on down to our Facebook page for the details. This giveaway ends on 28 December, and the lucky winner will be notified through Facebook.

A2 Movements
Address:
CT Hub #05-91, 114 Lavender Street S338729
Tel: 91849744 (Chi Ying)
Email: [email protected]
Website: Countdown At 12 – Usher In The New Year With 12 Hours Of Free Flowing Drinks!