Location: North

6 Places In Singapore With The Dreamiest Bespoke Cakes For Your Special Day

All celebratory occasions call for cake and whether you are celebrating your 21st birthday, wedding or baby shower, nothing is more perfect for the occasion than a bespoke cake!

Why go for the conventional Blackforest Cake or Strawberry Cheesecake? Let your imagination run free and create one-of-a-kind bespoke cakes at these bakeries in Singapore!

1. Temptations Cakes

Established in 1985, there is a reason why homegrown bakery Temptations Cakes has stuck around for so long. Their classic cakes and selection of sweet treats will certainly leave you wanting more.

Naturally, this is one of the best places to customise your very own cake for your special occasion.

Whether you are looking for a fancy wedding cake or a festive-themed cake, Temptation Cakes is sure to nail it. Of course, like any other bakery, it is best to place your order in advance. After all, these bakers and cake designers definitely need the time to craft out that perfect bespoke cake for your special day.

Temptations Cakes
Address: 42 Joo Chiat Place, Singapore 427766
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 7.30pm
Tel: 6440 9200
Image Credit: @bloomsburybakers[/caption]

While Bloomsbury Bakers specialises particularly in buttercream, fondant and fresh floral cakes cake designs, if you have something else in mind, feel free to let them know!

Besides the bespoke cakes, you can also order dessert tables as well as baby shower gift boxes for your special moment as well!

Bloomsbury Bakers
Address: Blk 30 Bendemeer Road, #01-889, Singapore 330030
Opening hours: Tue to Fri 11am – 7pm; Sat 10am – 7pm; Sun 10am – 6pm (Closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6299 3450
Image Credit: @winifredkristecake[/caption]

Their handcrafted cakes and hand-made sugar flower petal decorations are all meticulously hand-painted by the team at Winifred Kristé Cake. You can choose from cake flavours ranging from the classic Vanilla Bean to the popular Earl Grey Chocolate.

Winifred Kristé Cake
Address: 271 Bukit Batok East Ave 4, Block 271, Singapore 650271
Opening hours: Tue to Sat 11am – 7pm (Closed on Sun & Mon)
Email: [email protected]
Image Credit: @nglitying[/caption]

Whether you are a macaron lover or adore rainbow-layered cakes, it will be perfectly reflected in the cakes Li Tying creates!

Website

5. Little House Of Dreams

Create your dream cake right here at Little House Of Dreams! Their specialty lies in creating fondant cakes, which essentially means they can re-create literally any cake theme that you have in mind!

A gorgeous-looking cake should also taste equally delicious, which is why all their fondant cakes are also ganached in premium chocolate!

[caption id="attachment_23700" align="alignnone" width="960"] Image Credit: Little House Of Dreams Facebook[/caption]

From castle fondant cakes to carousel fondant cakes, each of the cakes are carefully crafted with amazing designs such as watercolour and even graffiti effects! With their team of talented and creative fondant artists, Little House Of Dreams will certainly make your dream cake a reality!

Little House Of Dreams
Address: Block 8 Dempsey Road #01-14, Singapore 247696
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11am – 10.30pm; Fri to Sun & eve of PH 9am – 10.30pm, PH 9am to 11pm
Tel: 6472 4977
Image Credit: @shibertybakes[/caption]

Besides her cakes, you can also indulge in some of Shiberty’s other specialty desserts such as honey toasts and all-day brunch at her cafe located along Owen Road.

Shiberty Bakes
Address: #01-277, 46 Owen Rd, Singapore 210046
Opening hours: Tue to Sun 1pm – 10pm (Closed on Mondays)
Tel: 6291 5221
Website

If you have an upcoming occasion that calls for it, customise your own cakes at these bakeries! While prices might be on the steeper side compared to other off-the-shelf cakes, it beats having a conventional cake at your special event!

These novelty cakes will no doubt impress your guests with their unique designs. Most importantly, a bespoke cake design best reflects you, your personality and your preferences as you celebrate your special and important moment!

(Top Image Credit: singaporebrides.com)

Also read, The Wicked Cream: Gourmet Marshmallows To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

These Poké Bowls Are Worth Poking Your Forks And Spoons Into!

Joining the latest #eatclean craze within our little red dot are Poké bowls. With no relation to Pokémon, Poké bowls (pronounced ‘poh-kay’) actually originated from tropical Hawaii.

If you are not sure what a Poké bowl consists of, it is essentially a Hawaiian-inspired Chirashi don – slices of raw fish such as tuna or salmon with your choice of rice or greens, topped with sesame seeds, seaweed or other topping variations.

With the slew of Poké bowls popping up around Singapore, it is only a matter of time before we succumb to this latest healthy food trend. If you have finally decided to jump on the bandwagon, here are some Poké bowls in Singapore worth poking your forks and spoons into!

1. A Poke Theory

If you have a considerable appetite and are a little nitpicky about your food, A Poke Theory is the perfect place for you. Here at A Poke Theory, there is no such thing as a signature poké bowl. Whether you prefer sushi rice as opposed to lettuce or tuna as your choice of sashimi, you get to customise your poké bowl just the way you like it!

[caption id="attachment_22720" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Credit: Credit: 2. Aloha Poké

As one of the pioneering poké bowl places in Singapore, Aloha Poké brought a taste of Hawaii back to our sunny little island in 2014 and helped kick-start the poké bowl food trend! With fresh and generous amounts of tuna and salmon, paired with a wide selection of add-ons and superfoods, you can indulge in a hearty bowl of healthy goodness, minus the guilt factor.

[caption id="attachment_22723" align="aligncenter" width="1999"] Credit: Credit: 3. Katto

For a wholesome and budget-friendly poké bowl, you should absolutely make a trip down to Katto! This quick-service restaurant serves up some delicious poké bowls with a Singaporean twist. On top of the locally-inspired flavours, you can expect a Katto bowl of healthy carbs and protein, and of course, not forgetting the fresh premium sashimi!

[caption id="attachment_22729" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Credit: Credit: facebook[/caption]

Katto
Address: 1 Fusionopolis Place, Galaxis Building, #01-21, Singapore 138522
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11am – 8pm  (Closed on weekends)
Website

4. Rollie Olie

Nestled within the hipster PasarBella in Suntec City, Rollie Ollie is an Asian fusion restaurant with a touch of Californian style. Known for its made-to-order fresh sushi rolls, Rollie Ollie also offers appetising Asian- inspired poké bowls that are full of flavour and texture!

[caption id="attachment_22731" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Credit: Credit: 8188 1531
Credit: Credit: therantingpanda.com[/caption]

Furthermore, you have the option of swapping out certain ingredients if there are any that are not to your liking! However, do note that the golden hours to indulge in their wholesome poké bowls is only between 11am to 8pm.

Alter Ego
Address: 8 Raffles Ave, #01-13D, Singapore 039802
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 11am – 1am; Fri 11am – 2am; Sat 10am – 2am; Sun 10am – 1am
Tel: 6327 9301
Credit: Credit: 6884 4566
Credit: Credit: Website

Forget the conventional salad or sushi bowl! Healthy eating has reached a whole new level with these Poké bowls. Not only are they presented in a variety of colourful ways, they also pack a punch of flavour with their raw sashimi, plethora of healthy ingredients and unique sauces.

Whether you intend to switch to a healthier lifestyle or simply want to diverge from your usual sinful pleasures, it is never too late to hop onto this latest Poké bowl food trend!

(Header image credit: 9 Places With Wholesome Good Food That Will Inspire You To Eat Clean!

Healing Touch Is The Busy Millennial’s Solution To Stubborn Fat And Difficult Skin

We millennials are a busy bunch. Between sitting on our butts all day, balancing school, work, our social lives and the 101 other commitments we keep these days, there are definitely some things that fall by the wayside, including our fitness, skin health, and sometimes, even our general well-being.

Who has the time to hit the gym three times a week or to religiously go through a 5-step skin routine? Well, every now and then, it’s good to stop, take a break, and find a fix for some of the things you’ve been neglecting until now.

If you’re all about quick fixes when it comes to your weight, skin, or if you just want to purge your body of all the tiredness within it, Healing Touch has your back. The beauty chain whose core services include facials, massages and slimming has won awards from CLEO, Women’s Weekly and TripdAdvisor, sealing its status as a peoples’ favourite.

Its staff are friendly and highly experienced, they use quality products and the latest technologies. And the best part? It won’t cost you a bomb!

Last week, I popped by the branch in Orchid Country Club to give its slimming treatment and facials a go and this was what went down.

Slimming Treatment

The slimming treatment I tried was the Slim Lipo-Laser Treatment ($230 excl. GST) and the staff there guaranteed—as they do with all their first time customers—that I would lose 5cm around my waist. A little bit skeptical at first, I went for it and wound up losing a total of 8.5cm within the 60 minute session! I was definitely surprised by the results.

The treatment uses a machine called a ‘Lipo Laser’. During the treatment, after the skin is prepped with a Complex AHA fruit acid, a total of 8 laser light emitting plates are strapped across the tummy region. It sounds scary, but trust me, it isn’t!

The lasers penetrate the skin, targeting fat cells and releasing water and free fatty acid. This effectively causes the fat cells to “shrink”, which is how you lose the inches around your tummy! After this, the slimming therapist conducts a Manual Lymph Drainage massage to flush out all that water and nasty toxins that was released earlier.

The heat from the metal plates can be a little painful, especially if you’re on or near the beginning/end of your period (like I was), because the skin tends to be more sensitive during this time. Don’t try to bear with it like I did! Feel free to let the attentive staff know if it’s too hot, and she will make adjustments accordingly.

As the lasers were working away at “melting” my fats, the therapist went through a questionnaire to find out more about my lifestyle habits—how much water I drink, how often I exercise, etc.—as well as my weight loss goals—what my goal weight is, when was the last time I was at my goal weight, etc.

When the session was over, we had a short consultation where she advised me on how to lead a healthier lifestyle, and made sure I had realistic expectations when it came to achieving and maintaining my goal body, i.e. it takes a total lifestyle change. Slimming treatments without any accompanying changes to your nutritional habits or exercise frequency won’t do the trick, especially not in the long run.

While the Lipo-Laser Treatment is definitely a quick fix when you need it, I think it’s great that Healing Touch employs a holistic approach toward weight loss, providing nutritional coaching and motivating customers to live healthier beyond just administering the treatment, so they can better achieve their goal physiques.

Facial

For the facial, I tried the NEO Energy Advanced Facials ($226 excl. GST), a 90 minute bespoke facial where you get to use 2 of 5 cutting edge technologies, depending on your skin issues.

The 5 are Meso Infusion, which facilitates the penetration of serum for more hydrated, firmer skin; D-Sonic Deep Cleansing for a deep clean of the skin; Sonic Muscle Toning for firming and lifting; LED Multi-Purpose, to promote the production of collagen; as well as Bio-Mask Refining, to minimize pores as well as to brighten.

Because the beautician identified uneven skin tone, blackheads and enlarged pores as my key skin issues, she recommended Meso Infusion and Bio-Mask Refining. The treatment was so relaxing I actually fell asleep!

After giving my face a thorough double cleanse, as well as a routine extraction, the beautician applied a customized serum to my face and gently massaged it in using the Neo Energy Mesotherapy probe which was tuned to the optimal frequency for penetration (Meso Infusion).

Next, she applied 6 pairs of electrodes to the face through a face mask. While the positive ion plates helped with detoxification and removal of dirt and oil, the negative ion plates helped with the delivery of the active ingredients of the serum used, as well as with brightening the face and the minimizing of pores (Bio-Mask Refining).

What struck me as quite unique about the facials here was that they pluck your eyebrows as part of the treatment. I was so surprised I actually asked “Is this part of the facial?” when the beautician offered to pluck them! Aside from that, the facial included a face and shoulder massage—again, an unexpected touch, but definitely a plus by me.

All the products used were lightly and beautifully scented and felt super luxurious, and as promised, at the end of the treatment, my pores were noticeably smaller and my skin felt soft and youthful again!

From my experience, it’s clear to see that the staff at Healing Touch are truly dedicated to serving its customers. With a strong no hard-selling policy, you don’t have to worry about having to commit to anything you’re not comfortable with. Whether it’s slimming, a facial, or a relaxing massage you’re in for, you’ll sure to leave feeling very, very satisfied.

Healing Touch
Outlets: Healing Touch has seven branches islandwide. Click Healing Touch 
Instagram: @healingtouchspasg

8 Best Acai Bowls And Smoothies In Singapore For A Completely Guilt-Free Treat

Complete abstinence from sweet treats is a blasphemy. We are all-too familiar with the “I will not give in to my sweet tooth anymore!” – only to subconsciously reach for some chocolates within the next hour.

Fortunately, with the introduction of superfoods (the likes of Acai (ah-sah-ee) berry) into the realm of food, our lives are now healthier and sweeter. With the inclusion of acai bowls and smoothies into our everyday meals today, you can now enjoy a sinfully-sweet indulgence without fretting about the calories.

Here are 8 best acai bowls and smoothiess in Singapore for a sweet but completely guilt-free treat!

1. Project Acai

As one of the pioneers of the superfood scene in Singapore, Project Acai is dedicated to serving superfood bowls and smoothies.

Their acai bowls typically come in three sizes, with prices ranging from $6.80 to $14.50.

Project Acai
Address: 27 Lor Liput, Holland Village, Singapore 277738
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am – 10pm
Credit: Credit: facebook.com[/caption]

Haakon Superfoods & Juice
Address: 1118 Holland Avenue, #01-03, Singapore 278997
Opening hours: Daily, 8am – 10pm
Tel: 8399 2450
Credit: Credit: 6224 4088
Website

4. Seed and Soil

If you are rushing for time, Seed and Soil is your one-stop solution for a quick grab and go.

This healthy joint offers cold pressed juice for an instant healthy fix. Likewise, you can “upgrade” your juice into a meal by combining it with other whole fruits and superfoods such as chia seeds and goji berry.

[caption id="attachment_22421" align="aligncenter" width="925"] Credit: alainlicious.com[/caption]

Their signature Superfood Sprinkle Acai Bowl will certainly pack a nutritional punch to your diet.

[caption id="attachment_22420" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Credit: 9644 0752
Credit: peanutloti.wordpress.com[/caption]

For a BERRY healthy bowl, you should definitely go for their Blackberry Binge. Their smooth creamy base is made up of bananas, blackberries, raspberries and soy milk. Topped with blueberries, pomegranate, quinoa puffs and roasted cashew, you will want to get this the next time your sweet cravings kicks in!

[caption id="attachment_22422" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Credit: facebook.com[/caption]

Moreover, all of their smoothie bowls are affordably priced at $6, which definitely beats a pint of ice cream anytime.

A Poke Theory
Address: 27 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069623
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 11am – 6pm; Sat 10am – 4pm (Closed on Sun)
Credit: Credit: facebook.com[/caption]

It comprises of creamy acai smoothie dressed with chia seeds, mango chunks, blueberries, quinoa and crunchy bits of granola. Sprinkled with coconut for a delectable finishing touch, it is almost as if you are having gelato itself – but without the calories of course.

Super Loco
Address: 60 Robertson Quay, #01-13 The Quayside, Singapore 238252
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 5pm to 12am; Sat to Sun 10am – 3.30pm (Brunch) & 5pm – 12am ( Dinner)
Tel: 6235 8900
Credit: Credit: 6815 4600
Credit: Credit: facebook.com[/caption]

Their Signature Acai Bowl – Tropical Coconut Bowl no doubt stands out from the other specialty stores with the use of an actual coconut husk as a bowl. Despite the relatively small portion due to the coconut husk, expect generous toppings of fruits the likes of pineapple, kiwi, blueberry as well as granola and even wolfberries.

An Acai Affair
Address: 101 East Coast Road, Singapore 428796
Opening hours: Sun to Thu 12nn – 10pm; Fri to Sat 12nn – 11.30pm
Tel: 9792 0837
Website

These delectable acai bowls and smoothies show that sweet treats are not all about weight-inducing and artery-choking desserts.

Not only do these healthy acai bowls pack a powerhouse of nutritional value, but they also offer an equally luscious and sweet flavour as well! So the next time you feel a strong food craving for something sweet, head down to these spots for some delicious acai bowls and smoothies.

(Header image credit: 6 Interesting Cuisines You Didn’t Know You Can Get In Singapore To Spice Up Your Meals

Best Pizza Spots In Singapore For A Tasty Slice Of Heaven

How can anyone not love pizza?!

There is no denying that pizza is a long-standing favourite amongst many. It is the quintessential Netflix snack and the king of party food. From the traditional wood fired pizza to thin-crusted and DIY pizzas, there is a whole lot of choices when it comes to pizza options today.

Whether you are the old school delivery box-type pizza fan or the gourmet pizza connoisseur, here are some of the best pizza spots in Singapore for you. So you can indulge in this delectable flatbread!

1. Pizzeria Mozza

Despite being located at the swanky Marina Bay Sands, Pizzeria Mozza offers a casual pizza dining ambience.

Its dimly-lit atmosphere coupled with exquisite renditions of classic pizza flavours makes it the perfect date-night location.

There is certainly no missing the common flavours such as Margherita (tomatoes and mozzarella) and Napoletana (tomatoes, mozzarella, anchovies, and capers).

However, what differentiates Pizzeria Mozza from the rest is their earthly combinations of pizza toppings.

With the usage of unique ingredients such as squash roots and eggplant, you definitely have to prepare your taste buds for an out-of-this-world burst of pizza flavour!

Pizzeria Mozza
Address: The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, #B1-42/46, Singapore, 018956
Opening hours: Daily 12nn to 11pm
Tel: 6688 8522
Website

2. Peperoni Pizzeria

If you are looking for a dining spot to host your pizza-loving friends, then Peperoni Pizzeria is the perfect pizza place.

This Italian restaurant serves up authentic wood fired thin crust pizzas. However, Peperoni Pizzeria is best known for its humongous 21” XXL pizzas and the option to combine different flavours for 1 pizza.

Here at Peperoni Pizzeria, there are a whole lot of pizza toppings for you to choose from.

There are the classics such as Margherita, Hawaiana as well as unique flavours such as Portobello Funghi and Quaattro Formaggi (four types of cheeses).

If you are unable to decide, there is also the half-and-half option whereby you can choose two toppings for a great mix of pizza flavours.

Takeaway options are available at Peperoni Pizzeria – so you and your merrymaking friends can enjoy their enormous treats right in the comfort of home!

Peperoni Pizzeria
Address: 6 Greenwood Avenue, Hillcrest Park, Singapore 289195 (Other outlets available)
Opening hours: Mon to Sat 12pm – 11pm; Sun 11am – 11pm
Tel: 6465 6556
Website

3. La Pizzaiola

Forget paying exorbitant flight prices to Italy.

You can enjoy a true Italian pizza experience right here at La Pizzaiola. We are regulars at their Kalidasa Ave outlet. Over the years, their standards, quality and pizzas have been nothing but consistent and awesome.

La Pizzaiola provides an authentic, pocket-friendly, down to earth Italian restaurant experience for you and your family.

Go for their Rucola Parma (Rocket leaves with parma ham), which is the reigning fans’ favourite. For a spicy kick, go for their Diavola pizza that is topped with spicy salami. If you love seafood, the Frutti di Mare is generously topped with prawns, squids, and mussels.

La Pizzaiola also serves up an array of pastas, salads and desserts as well. Pair your pizza with their extensive selection of red and white wines and you are almost dining like true Italian!

La Pizzaiola
Address: 15-3 Jalan Riang, Singapore 358987 (Other outlets available)
Opening hours: Daily, 11.30am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 10.30pm (Closed on Tue)
Tel: 6282 5031
Website

4. La Nonna

La Nonna at Holland Village is the classic Italian restaurant.

Once you’ve placed your order, you can expect a small basket of piping hot bread served with butter or olive oil, all complimentary.

This cosy and comfortable restaurant serves Italian country cuisine, much like what grandma would usually prepare.

The best pizza here, that will keep coming back for more, has got to be the La Nonna, the namesake of the restaurant. You’ll be pulling out a slice of heaven – tomato, mozzarella, parmesan, asparagus, black truffle, and an egg.

[caption id="attachment_22680" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit:

La Nonna
Address: 76 Namly Place, Singapore 267226 (Other outlets available)
Tel: 6762 1587
Open: Lunch: 12:00, 14:30; Dinner: 18:00 – 22:30
5. Bella Pizza

For a true-blue authentic Italian pizza experience, you have to head down to Bella Pizza!

Best Thai Eateries In Singapore So You Don’t Have To Queue For 10,000 Years At Nakhon

Spicy Phad Thai, fragrant pineapple rice, tongue-numbing tom yum soup – there is no denying that Singaporeans absolutely love the taste of Thailand.

Ask “best Thai eateries” and Nahkon Kitchen might immediately come to most Singaporeans’ mind. However, the perpetual long and snaking queues at most of their outlets can be a major put off.

Thankfully, the selection of Thai eateries in Singapore is aplenty. Here are some of the best Thai eateries in Singapore so that you don’t have to queue for (a seemingly) 10,000 years at Nahkon!

1. Soi Thai Kitchen

Located in the foodie neighbourhood of Serangoon Gardens, Soi Thai Kitchen is one of the newer Thai eateries to hit our local Thai dining scene.

[caption id="attachment_22212" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Credit: Credit: Website

2. Ah Loy Thai

Ah Loy Thai is indisputably another popular Thai eatery in Singapore. During peak periods, wait times here can stretch up to 45 minutes.

[caption id="attachment_22215" align="aligncenter" width="1077"] Credit: Credit: therantingpanda.com[/caption]

Having been around for over a decade, you can expect consistently delicious Thai food at economical prices.

Be sure to order some their signature dishes such as Butter Calamari, Phad Thai and Tom Yum Soup!

Ah Loy Thai
Address: 9 Tan Quee Lan Street, Shaw Towers, #01-04, Singapore 188098
Opening hours: Mon to Thu 12nn to 3pm & 4.15pm – 8.30pm; Fri to Sun 12nn – 3pm & 4.15pm – 9.30pm
Website

3. First Thai Restaurant

Amidst the plethora of cafes and restaurants along Dhoby Ghaut, you can still find some authentic and cheap Thai food here at First Thai Restaurant.

A bowl of Thai boat noodles is unlikely to satisfy your late-night hunger pangs.

5. Sixty6

At just under two years into the Thai F&B scene, Sixty6 is one of the under-radar Thai eateries that serves authentic and economical Thai fares.

[caption id="attachment_22575" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Credit: Credit: Website

5. Nana Thai Restaurant

Tucked amongst a plethora of Thai eateries in Golden Mile Complex, Nana Thai Restaurant stands out with authentic and humbly-priced Thai dishes.

[caption id="attachment_22226" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Credit: Credit: Credit: mshannahchia.com[/caption]

This relatively new kid on the block serves up some of Thailand’s famous eats and street food.

[caption id="attachment_22228" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Credit: Because Bangkok Is Overrated, Let These Hidden Gems In Thailand Take Your Breath Away

These Homes In Singapore Are Indisputably The Gems Of Singapore Property

There is a saying that home is the person or place you want to return to over and over again.

In a land-scarce city like Singapore, home comes in a the form of a HDB flat, condominium or for some, landed property or perhaps even a bungalow.

However, did you know that Singapore is also home to some of the most breathtakingly-huge and rare houses?

Here are three of these stately residences that are indisputably the gems of Singapore property.

1. The Screen House – K2LD Architects

Situated just beside the zigzag house in Singapore is this unique contemporary residence, also known as The Screen House.

The striking features of the house are the use of various geometrical elements: a linear block and a curvilinear pavilion that is elevated above the prevailing shared gardens.

The use of parallel lines and smooth textures around the house creates the illusion of wide and comfortable spaces.

Additionally, the use of timber screens along the linear block allows the rooms to breathe while providing the necessary privacy for the homeowners.

The architectural element that clearly stands out is the curved pavilion located midway between the house.

Likewise, the use of wooden panels reflects the strategy of blending in with nature as it overlooks that trees and garden in the property.

Given the structure and location of the curved pavilion, the swimming pool takes a unique shape, maximising the available space.

Given that most of the living quarters and swimming pool are somewhat reclined deep within the landscape of the house, it has been dubbed as achieving the act of “disappearance”, by providing privacy to both the homeowners and their neighbours.

2. JKC2 House – ONG&ONG Pte Ltd

Luxury is clearly evident in every part of this house, which also known as JKC2 House by ONG&ONG Pte Ltd. Despite its rather lacklustre name, the luxurious residence in Bukit Timah comprises of three structures that border a spacious courtyard.

Given the humid weather of Singapore’s climate, the upper pods open up to the pools below to create a feeling of vastness. Furthermore, the house’s unique structure demanded painstaking attention to every detail.

Every single piece of tile, glass and aluminium padding has to follow a certain template and was all custom-made. Additionally, the curvilinear staircase was laser-cut from thick pieces of steel, welded together and hand-polished.

This unique house clearly reflects the seamless integration of defined geometries and fluid lines and curves.

Final thoughts

These houses are undeniably the gems of Singapore property. Each of these stately residences is clearly the pinnacle of living. Imagine extravagant living spaces coupled with expansive open spaces and natural surrounding greenery.

(Header image credit: 9 Legit & Totally Gorgeous Airbnb Places In Singapore That Are Worth Every Cent

12 Valentine’s Day Date Experiences That Don’t Involve Dinners And Movies

Don’t get us wrong, the dinner and movie date will always be a classic. But if you’ve been together for a while now, you must be a little bored by this date combination.

This special occasion, Valentine’s Day, is when couples should spend time together doing something more memorable. Shake things up by taking your pick amongst these fun, relaxing and romantic activities guaranteed to give both of you quality time. You’ll make memories to keep for a lifetime.

Make this Valentine’s Day an extra special one, with these 12 date experiences you won’t forget!

1. Live Music at the Botanic Gardens

If the standard picnic isn’t quite special enough for you, try one where you and your date are serenaded by incredible live music, against the backdrop of a moonlit sky.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens Bandstand will be showcasing a series of melodic live acts the weekend before Valentine’s Day. So grab your sweetheart and a picnic mat for two unforgettable nights of soul soothing indie pop in the middle of a natural scenic setting.

What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with good music, lush greenery and a sky full of stars? Head down with your loved one early enough to grab a good spot and catch the sunset together before a relaxing night.

Valentine’s Day 2017 @ Botanic Gardens
Where: Singapore Botanic Gardens, Bandstand
Date: 10-12 Feb 2017
Time: 6pm to 10pm
Price: Free
Website

2. Marina Bay Sands Light & Water Show

If you haven’t seen the Wonder Full Light and Water Spectacular at Marina Bay Sands yet, this is something uniquely Singaporean that you and your loved one have to experience together at least once. This is one majestic water-fire-light show that’ll take your breath away.

The show begins with a single drop of water, signifying the beginning of life, and matures into a vibrant extravaganza–so much like your ever growing love. Fall in love again amidst the amazing convergence of light, music and sound, with the stunning cityscape of Singapore lit up in the backdrop.

If you’re enjoying a post dinner stroll along the Marina Bay, be sure not to miss this majestic show that will add that spark to complete your romantic and breezy evening at the waterfront.

Wonder Full Light and Water Show
Where: Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza at the Promenade
When: Sunday-Thursday 8pm, 9:30pm; Friday-Saturday: 8pm, 9:30pm, 11pm
Price: Free
Tel: 6688 8868
Don’t just promise your beloved the moon and the stars–show it to them! If there’s a most stereotypical romantic nighttime date, stargazing has to be it. And yes, you can do that right here in Singapore.

[caption id="attachment_22402" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image credit: Telegraph[/caption]

For one night each week, the Science Centre Observatory offers free star-gazing sessions. Peer at the surrounding constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres through their super telescopes, and perhaps catch a meteoroid shower while you are it. Andromeda is also a lesser-known observatory where you catch glimpses of star clusters in the Andromeda Galaxy.

For a little more privacy, you can also try West Coast Park, Fort Canning Hill, (or any secluded spot far from the city lights, really!) in the evenings to immerse yourselves in the celestial spectacle.

Science Centre Observatory
Where: Singapore Science Centre Omnitheatre, 21 Jurong Town Hall Road
When: Every Friday, 7.30pm to 10pm
Price: Free
Website

Andromeda Observatory
Where: Woodlands Galaxy Community Club, 31 Woodlands Avenue 6
When: Every Friday and Saturday, 7.30PM-9.30PM
Price: $1 per visit

4. Couple Spa

Noticed that work has been taking a toll on your loved one? Stress can take away the sweet moments you’re supposed to be spending together, so take this Valentine’s Day to relax and pamper yourselves at with a couple spa package!

We recommend Auriga Spa specially for this V-day. Chill in one of its four couple spa suites that come with their private garden. Their PS I Love You head-to-toe treatment starts with a relaxing foot massage with rose scrub, followed by a indulgent full body massage.

A candlelit bath–yes, with rose petals and the lot–and two glasses of champagne round off your intimate session.

Auriga Spa
Address: Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Singapore 098297
Open: Daily 10am-10pm
Tel: 6591 5023
Price: PS I Love You Treatment $688 for two/165 minutes
Website

Also, read Nothing Above $60 – Indulge In An Affordable Full Body Massage

5. Perfume Workshop

Embrace your chance to create a custom fragrance with your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day. At Je T’aime Perfumery’s couples perfume workshop, you’ll be able to design the perfect blend of unique ingredients based on you and your partner’s traits and preferences.

For starters, you’ll be given a perfume personality questionnaire. Shake things up by filling it in for each other, and you may be surprised by the results! You can then use that as a guide to match the oils in olfactory families and create the formula for a signature scent only you two will have. #couplegoals

Je T’aime Couples Perfume Workshop
Where: 90 Good Man Road, Block O, #01-57 Singapore 439053
When: Monday & Tuesday 10am to 4pm; Wednesday-Sunday 10am to 8pm
Price: $250
Tel: (65) 91814871
Email: [email protected]
Website

6. Island Hopping

Thinking of a short getaway with your sweetie?

Spend the day on one of Singapore’s scenic Southern islands, or explore the lot of them! Singapore Island Cruises runs daily ferrying services to Singapore’s many secretive islands off the coast.

Kusu Island boasts Malay shrines, a Chinese temple, tortoises and beautiful beaches, while Sisters’ Island allows for camping and snorkeling. St. John’s Island has great trekking, swimming and fishing, while Lazarus Island is perfect for suntanning and picnicking.

No matter where you go, you’re bound to feel like you’re on vacation.

Try island hopping to create an exclusive and memorable Valentine’s Day for you and your beloved!

Singapore Island Cruise
Where: #01-04 Marina South Pier, 31 Marina Coastal Drive, Singapore 018988
When: See site for individual ferry schedules
Price: $18 per two-way ticket
Tel: 6534 9339
Here Are 6 Singapore Offshore Islands You Can Visit To Get Away From The Crowd!

7. Say It With Love

Celebrate Cupid’s season with your loved one by heading down to The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay for Say it with Love–an assortment of activities to enjoy with your partner, and even friends and family.

Create a field aglow with dreams by penning your wishes for each other on a glow-in-the-dark windmill to plant on an expanse of green.

You can also art jam with artists from Band of Doodlers, buy a unique handcrafted item for a good cause, or create a gift for that special someone at fun workshops. The highlights of the event are the cosy evening picnic and movie under the stars.

Pack your own picnic or get a couple’s picnic bag ($60-$65), which comes with a mat, snacks and a choice of either wine, a platter of finger food or a box of sandwiches.

Say It With Love
Venue: The Meadows, Gardens By The Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
When: Friday 24 Feb 2017  Saturday 25 Feb 2017
Price: Free

8. Dance Classes

Venture out of your comfort zone and learn something new together this Valentine’s Day by signing up for a couple dance class! John & Josephine Dance Creative offers Latin, Waltz, Cha Cha and many other styles for you to Tango the night away.

Partner dances are beautiful, intimate, and require much communication and coordination. That should pretty much strengthen your relationship, and we promise that you will have a ball of a time!

Ballroom dancing may be a good one to start with, since you’ll have to learn to do it at your wedding anyway. Hint hint.

John & Josephine Dance Creative
Where: John & Josephine Dance Creative, 1 Sophia Road, #06-27/28, Peace Centre, Singapore 228149
Open: Monday-Friday 12 noon to 10pm, Saturday-Sunday 12 noon to 6pm
Price: $100 per Lesson (per couple), $350 for 4 Lessons
Tel: 6334 6230
Email: [email protected]
Website

9. Pasta Making Workshop

The couple that cooks together, stays together.

That’s why Plentyfull has put together a pasta-making workshop specially for the month of February. You and your partner will follow Head Chef Victor Loy in learning how to make gnocchi from scratch!

Each of the three workshops showcases something different: Russet Potato Gnocchi with Mushroom & Spinach (14 Feb), Pumpkin Gnocchi with Kale & Pecorino (21 Feb), and Gratinated Gluten Free Gnocchi with Anchovies & Capers (28 Feb).

Drop by to pick up a new recipe for a hearty, wholesome, home-cooked meal you can make together for dinner!

Plentyfull Pasta Making Workshop
Where: 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-79/80 Millenia Walk, Singapore 039596
When: 14, 21 & 28 February 2017
Price: $38 per person
Tel: 6493 2997
Email: [email protected]
Facebook

10. Walk in Nature

With so many green spaces in Singapore, a leisurely stroll amongst our ample greenery makes for a great date idea. You can share a peaceful day in your own world, traipsing through leafy shrubs under the shade of the towering trees.

Take your pick from the many walking guides provided by NParks.

Take your love to new heights at the MacRitchie TreeTop Walk, relive history amongst the Changi Heritage Trees or Fort Canning Park, or go completely off the beaten track at Pulau Ubin.

Hike hand in hand through these walking trails and reconnect in the wilderness this Valentine’s Day!

NParks Walking Guides
Website

11. Cosmic Bowling

Remember the good old days dating at the bowling alley? How about some late night, glow-in-the-dark bowling this Valentine’s Day?

It’s as cool as it sounds. Luminous balls and pins, blasting dance music and disco lighting will surely make for a date night to remember.

Choose amongst Rock, Retro, Kpop and R&B themes on separate nights, and head to your favourite. Get pumped up be prepared to bowl your partner over with your moves both on the alley and the dance floor!

Orchid Bowl Cosmic Bowling
Where:
SAFRA Yishun,  60 Yishun Avenue 4 Singapore 769027
The Chevrons, 48 Boon Lay Way, Singapore 609961
E!hub, Downtown East, 1 Pasir Ris Cl, Singapore 519599
When: Saturdays; individual dates listed on website
Price: $24.50 (SAFRA members), $30 (non-members)
Tel: 6752 6219
Email: [email protected]
Facebook

12. AcroYoga Classes

Yes, you too can be one of those cool couples on Instagram who are always trying fun new things.

This Valentine’s Day, take an Acroyoga class with your loved one! The dynamic aerial postures not only increase core strength and flexibility, but more importantly unites your mind, body and spirit.

This zen sport calms you down, reduces stress and anxiety, and puts you in a better mood. Partner yoga in particular deepens the practice by including your lover in postures where breathing and moving together is key.

At the end of it, expect improved levels of communication, deeper expressions of postures and higher levels of trust.

Acroyoga Jam Singapore
Where: Raffles Place on the outdoor grass lawn in front of The Providore, Raffles MRT
When: Every Thursday 8pm to 10pm, Sunday 4pm to 6pm
Facebook

Shelve your dinner and movie plans, have them another day instead. This Valentine’s Day, we’ve suggested special date night (and day) plans for you already.

Take this chance to spend some good old quality time bonding with your special someone, with some of these memorable activities you can experience as a couple. All you’ve got to do is grab your sweetheart and head to these romantic events happening all throughout the sweetest month of the year!

Also, read 8 Awesome Valentine’s Day Dinner And Gift Ideas For A Truly Special Date