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Getting Hitched? Here Are 10 S’pore Wedding Videographers To Capture Your Special Day

Many folks who’ve gotten married can attest that nabbing a fantastic wedding videographer in Singapore is almost as important – if not on equal footing – as the photographer for the big day.

After guests head home following fond goodbyes, and you’ve hung up your lavish outfits and sparkly heels, there’s nothing quite like reliving through the special start of your new chapter together through a glorious, perfectly-summarised video.

Beyond your wedding photos, videos are a great way to capture the best moments of your wedding – from your proposal, pre-wedding shoot to the actual wedding banquet itself.

Often, you’ll find yourself marvelling at moments you’ve missed or glossed over during the rush of it all – from the look of joy on your parent’s faces to the look of sheer happiness when you and your partner first set eyes on each other as you’re walking down the aisle.

While there are plenty of recommendations for wedding photographers, who do you turn to for wedding films you can look back on in years to come? Below is our list of 10 noteworthy wedding videographers you must know. Who knows, you might just find a videographer with works that resonates with your heart and style.

1. Fresh from Kenneth

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6atvavcgInA

Keeping his natural editing style, FreshfromKenneth‘s works reflect the moment as they were captured. Adding a personal touch, his style is unique in the industry and ideal for couples looking to remember moments rich in natural emotion.

Raw and unscripted, each piece crafted by Kenneth is one of a kind and tailored to the personalities of each couple. There is no “template” or “standard video” when it comes to his work as nothing is staged or “rehearsed”. All you have to do is to go on about your day and Kenneth will create a masterpiece from that.

With his experience and exceptional eye for detail, each work will definitely touch the hearts of those who watch your film.

Fresh from Kenneth
Website

2. Redtape Projects

https://vimeo.com/292049584

Started in 2012, Redtape Projects consists of a group of friends with a hobby and passion for videography. They are not only a group of dedicated and passionate videographers but are also an artistic and fun wedding team that focuses their energy on building inspiring and breathtaking films.

Ensuring that each meeting is enjoyable and “lepak“, rest assured that your wants and needs will be met by the folks at Redtape Projects.

If you’re looking at straying away from the standard “commercial” wedding videos, Redtape produces refreshing films and tells your love story through its seamless editing and excellent choice of music.

With one simple objective at the end of the day – “We start as strangers but we end as friends” – you know you’ll definitely have fun working with them on your big day!

Redtape Projects
Website

3. Twenty8picks

https://vimeo.com/306752765

Established in 2010, Twenty8picks’ creative director Caleb cut his teeth for film while working as an editor in local television and has filmed over 200 weddings and events since delving into videography full time.

With an eye for quirky moments that reflect a couple’s relationship, Twenty8picks’ wedding videos have a natural, incandescent quality to them.

Twenty8picks
Website

5. Highest Kite Weddings

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=186&v=qd74wBLgo-Y

For a cinematic wedding film, look no further than Highest Kite Weddings. Classic and timeless, the production team presents your love story through artfully-framed sequences and an exceptional treatment of colour that is visually captivating.

Our favourite work is definitely Deon and Sheila’s Pre-Wedding video, which tugs at heartstrings and captures the most intimate moments between the lovebirds.

With a clever mix of candid, romantic, and sentimental moments, their films are more than just a conventional wedding video.

Highest Kite Weddings
Website

6. Freya Films

https://vimeo.com/307693670

At Freyafilms, Jialiang (founder) does the work of a “memory machine”. He captures, preserves and delivers beautiful memories to the couple. Using an honest and dynamic approach, Freyafilms produce films that are elegant with an editorial edge.

With over 8 years of experience, his goal is to capture unnoticed moments, forgotten memories, unexpected perspectives and the unique personalities of each couple. Freyafilms stitches all these moments to artistically tell your stories in cinematic form.

Freyafilms niche lies in telling stories that are unique to each couple, accompanied by a down to earth service that is dedicated and personalised to the needs of each couple.

Freya Films
8. Winson Cinematography

https://www.facebook.com/winsoncinematography/videos/1516940405035372/

Winson Cinematography
10. Sense Gallery

https://vimeo.com/280198542

Sense Gallery
Website

Also Read Say Yes To The Dress – A Guide To Picking Out The Perfect Dress For Your Bridesmaids

(Header Image Source: Rekord Haus)

Avoid The Crowd At Marina Bay – Here Are 12 Other Places To Catch The NYE Fireworks In S’pore

When it comes to welcoming the new year, Singapore truly knows how to throw a party with a dazzling display of fireworks.

However, watching the fireworks can be less than pleasant when you’re pressed up against thousands of other people who had the same location in mind. Here are some alternative places to catch the fireworks if you want to avoid the massive crowd!

1. Bay East Garden @ Gardens By The Bay

The lesser known portion of Gardens By The Bay, this tranquil park is filled with lush lawns, elegant palm trees, and an unobstructed view of the fireworks! Situated opposite the Supertree Grove, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, we suggest splurging on hawker treats to go from Satay by The Bay beforehand to feast out while waiting for the big show.

It’s accessible by car via Tanjong Rhu Road or across the bridge from Marina Barrage.

Open daily 24 hours, admission is absolutely free, so bring your picnic mats and hunker down for a peaceful night.

Bay East Garden 
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CE1/DT16)

2. The Esplanade Roof Terrace

Head all the way to the top of the Esplanade for a stunning view of the city. It also has a bird’s-eye view of the fireworks as it illuminates the Singapore skyline, ringing in the new year.

Do note that there’s limited space on the roof terrace so you might want to head down earlier to score yourself a good spot!

The Esplanade Roof Terrace
Address: 8 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039802
Nearest MRT: Esplanade MRT (CC3) | City Hall (NS25/EW13)

3. Faber Peak

While the view of the fireworks is from a distance here, this hilltop destination is perfect for a romantic rendezvous away from the crowd.

With cable cars, bars and restaurants, you’ll be living in the lap of luxury with food, drinks, fireworks and tons of breathing space this New Year’s Eve.

It’s accessible by car via Mount Faber Road from Lower Delta Road or Kampong Bahru Road which will take you straight up to Faber Peak Singapore.

Faber Peak
Address: 109 Mount Faber Rd, Singapore 099203
Nearest MRT: HarbourFront MRT (NE1/CC29), take Exit B towards HarbourFront Centre

4. Singapore Sports Hub

The greatest draw to watching the fireworks at the Sports Hub is avoiding the crowds of Marina Bay. If you position yourself right, along the waterfront, you get an undisturbed view across the water all the way to Marina Bay.

The numerous eateries here also means you don’t need to prepare your own picnic basket or food. Before the fireworks start, head over to Kallang Wave Mall for dinner or get some munchies to snack on while you watch the spectacular fireworks display.

Singapore Sports Hub
Address: 1 Stadium Place Singapore 397628
Nearest MRT: Stadium MRT (CC6)

5. Starbucks at The Fullerton Waterboat House

Not one for alcohol? Start your new year with a caffeine fix at Starbucks at The Fullerton Waterboat House!

With its full length windows and a great view of the MBS, you’ll be able to catch the fireworks in a comfortable, air-conditioned space.

Starbucks at Fullerton Waterboat House
Address: 3 Fullerton RD, #02-01/02/03, Fullerton Waterboat House, Singapore 049215
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place MRT (EW14/NS26)

6. The Helix Bridge

Located right next to where the fireworks will be released, but a good distance away from the crowd at The Float @ Marina Bay, The Helix may get crowded, but is nonetheless better than squeezing at The Float.

What’s more, with 4 viewing platforms, it is a great place to get up close and personal with the fireworks!

The Helix Bridge
Address: Helix Bridge, Singapore
Nearest MRT: Promenade MRT (DT15/CC4)

7. Marina Barrage

The expansive lawn of Marina Barrage overlooks the city from across the Marina Channel.

Bring along a picnic mat and chill on the spacious rooftop garden during major celebrations, as you wait for the spectacular illuminations in the sky.

Marina Barrage
Address: 8 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018951
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CE1/DT16)

8. Pinnacle @ Duxton

It’s the tallest public housing in the area, with an astonishing 50 storeys. Residents of The Pinnacle are lucky to view the annual fireworks from the comfort of their homes. However, that doesn’t mean that you should be losing out too. For $6, you can head to the rooftop of The Pinnacle and witness the fireworks as they unfold.

All you’ll probably need to pay for is parking!

Pinnacle @ Duxton
Address: 1 Cantonment Rd, Singapore 085301
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar MRT (EW15) | Outram MRT Station (EW16/NE3)

9. 1-Altitude

It should come as no surprise that the world’s highest alfresco bar delivers one of the best views of the fireworks. Head up to the Upper Viewing Gallery (on the 63rd floor) of 1-Altitude for a spectacular 360-degree view of the city.

Standing at 282 metres above sea level, enjoy the panoramic view of the entire island, have a drink whilst enjoying the fireworks and enjoy many amazing photo moments!

1-Altitude
Address: 1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW14/NS26)

10. Smoke & Mirrors

The National Gallery’s snazy rooftop restaurant and bar boasts a gorgeous view of the MBS and CBD.

Smoke and Mirrors has been gaining a rather loyal following for their cocktail menu, so grab a drink and settle in for the upcoming fireworks!

Smoke and Mirrors
Address: St Andrew’s Rd, 01 National Gallery, Singapore 178957
Nearest MRT: City Hall MRT (EW13/NS25)

11. Skyville @ Dawson

The Sky Garden at Dawson is a fully-sheltered garden terrace surrounded by lush greenery. The sky gardens are located at levels 14, 25 and 36 but the 47th storey is where you want to be this NYE.

As it is a residential area, be considerate and keep your levels down as you usher in the new year!

Skyville @ Dawson
Address: 86 Dawson Rd, Singapore 141086
Nearest MRT: Queenstown MRT (EW19)

12. Marina South Pier Carpark (Level 3)

The Marina South Pier isn’t just for ferry rides to St John’s Island. Climb up to level 3 of the car park and you’ll find a viewing spot of the ocean and CBD skyline in the background.

It may be packed with cars on the actual day itself but if you just want an epic view of the fireworks, the view from the top alone will be enough for your IG-worthy pictures.

Marina South Pier Carpark
Address: 31 Marina Coastal Dr, Singapore 018988
Nearest MRT: Marina South Pier MRT station (Exit A)

Also Read From Carnivals To Flea Markets, Here Are 7 Events To End 2018 On A High Note

From Carnivals To Flea Markets, Here Are 8 Events To End 2018 On A High Note

On a long break? Not sure where to go or what to do this weekend?

It’s the last weekend of the year and to make it count, head out and have a blast at these exciting events instead. From the crowd-favourite Marina Bay carnival to snapping away at the highly-instagrammable exhibition at National Gallery Singapore, there’s plenty of things to do and see before the year ends.

Here are 7 things to do to usher in the new year:

1. Prudential Marina Bay Carnival

Singapore’s largest carnival is back for its second edition! Occupying the Bayfront Event Space from 22nd December till 24th March 2019, there will be plenty of tried-and-true formula of hipster food stall and more than 40 rides and games, which consists of both crowd-favourites and new additions.

Some of the popular attractions include the 35m-tall Star Flyer, heart-stopping Mach 5, and the brand new centrepiece of this round’s carnival is the Wave Swinger, a giant carousel swing!

Like its predecessor, admission is completely free, and it’ll run from 4pm – 11pm every single day. Operating hours will also be extended to 2am on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, so if you’ve ever wanted to usher in the new year 55 metres in the air, here’s your chance.

Pre-order your credits online to avoid long queues while you’re there!

Prudential Marina Bay Carnival
Venue: Bayfront Event Space
Date: 22nd December 2018 – 24th March 2019
Time: 4pm – 11pm (extended hours till 2am on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve)
Website

2. Food Truck Fest

Before you start on your “New Year, New Me” resolutions, pile on the holiday weight at Singapore’s first and largest Food Truck Fest!

Bringing in award-winning vendors (both local and regional), they will be serving up modern gastronomic delights for four days. Expect a wide array of mouthwatering delicacies like Swedish Meatballs by Fika Swedish Cafe & Bistro, Coconut Gula Melaka Doughnuts by Plain Vanilla Bakery, Beef Rendang Mac & Cheese by Preparazzi and Michelin-starred Ramen by Tsuta Singapore.

Head down to Marina Bay Sands’ Event Plaza from 28 – 31st December for the most iconic foodie paradise you’ve ever seen (and tasted) and usher in the new year with a culinary blast!

Food Truck Fest
Address: Marina Bay Sands Event Plaza, 2 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018972
Date: 28th – 31st December 2018
Time: : 28th – 30th Dec: 5PM – 11PM | 31st Dec: 4PM – 1AM
Website

3. Wheeler’s Market – Festive Edition

Revel in the spirit of giving or enjoy the festive atmosphere at Wheeler’s Market – Festive Edition!

Bag home all kinds of artisanal gifts and festive bakes made by local artists and crafters! Some of the goodies you can pick up include witty illustrations by Nuffypuffy, stylish partyware by Party Modern and Christmas Wreath Cookies from JustJulia.

Wheeler’s Market – Festive Edition
Address: 2 Park Lane, Seletar Aerospace Park, Singapore 798386
Date: 30th December 2018
Time: 9.30am – 6pm
Website

4. Hello, ONE PIECE Exhibition

With one of the longest-running anime series and over 440 million manga volumes in circulation worldwide, ONE PIECE is indisputably one of the most popular Japanese creation ever.

Hailing from Japan, visitors can expect to discover the infinite imagination of creator Eiichiro Oda in this exhibition. Get up close and personal with a replica of his work desk, wander through a gallery of his illustrations, and even experience as if they have jumped into the mind of Eiichiro Oda with a unique Virtual Reality Experience!

Other highlights of this exhibition include plenty of illustrations from the creator and of course, a merchandise shop stocking original goods.

Hello, ONE PIECE Exhibition
Address: Maritime Experiential Museum, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, 098269
Date: 27 November 2018 – 1 January 2019
Time: 1 Dec 2018 – 1 Jan 2019: 9.30AM – 7PM
Website

5. A Wizarding World Holiday At Changi Airport

Dive into the world of magic and wizardry set to enthral and captivate fans of the highly popular Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series.

Changi Airport is bringing the Wizarding World to you starting from 16 November 2018 up until February 2019. They have stunningly recreated various iconic scenes from the magical world of Harry Potter as part of their Christmas decoration.

Spellbinding activities await at Hogwarts’ most famous shopping street Diagon Alley. Take a stroll down this town as you relive the very first time Harry bought his wand at Ollivanders!

Or strike a pose in front of Hogsmeade’s iconic stores or take a picture against a life-sized version of the Hogwarts Express. If you’re there at the right time – you might just catch a snow and light show that will last till 6 January 2019!

Here are the timings to look out for if you’d like to catch the show:

Weekdays: 6pm, 7pm, 9pm

Weekends: 1pm, 6pm, 7pm, 9pm

If you’re travelling out of Singapore this year end, don’t miss the opportunity to soak in this magical world with other Potterheads just like you!

Wizarding World Of Harry Potter
Address: Terminal 3, Departure Hall, Public Area
Date: 16th November 2018 – mid-February 2019
Website

6. Minimalism: Space. Light. Object at National Gallery Singapore

See more through less at the first Minimalism exhibition in Southeast Asia, set across two sites: National Gallery Singapore and ArtScience Museum.

Led by National Gallery Singapore, the exhibition features over 150 works that explore the history and legacy of this groundbreaking art movement, which continues to inform a wide range of art forms and practitioners across the world today.

Minimalism: Space. Light. Object
Address: National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Rd, Singapore 178957
Date: 16 Nov 2018 – 14 Apr 2019
Website

7. Poinsettia Wishes Featuring Disney Tsum Tsum

Brace yourself for cuteness overload this holidays as Gardens by the Bay presents Singapore’s first Disney Tsum Tsum floral display.

“Poinsettia Wishes Featuring Disney Tsum Tsum” sees over 40 Tsum Tsums lying amidst a large field of more than 8,000 multi-coloured poinsettias at the Flower Dome. Join your favourite Disney and Pixar characters in stackable form as they make preparations for Christmas.

Snap a photo with Minnie Mouse and her friends decorating the Christmas tree, Mickey Mouse painting the ornamental baubles, Tigger sliding down ribbons while gift wrapping, and Dumbo lifting presents into the air!

Visitors can also choose from a range of Disney Tsum Tsum merchandise – including apparel, stationery, lifestyle products and even special-edition Disney Tsum Tsum x Udders ice cream – at the Gardens’ Conservatory Gift Shop.

Poinsettia Wishes Featuring Disney Tsum Tsum
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome, Singapore 018953
Date: 2 November 2018 – 6 January 2019
Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm
Price: Usual admission charge to the Flower Dome applies
Website

8. Black Panther Screening at Esplanade Park

Discover a whole new way to enjoy the movies you love with #PopcornPopUpCinema, the coolest cinema experience in town! Happening daily at hip bars, restaurants, rooftops and other venues in town, Popcorn Pop-Up Cinema is a cinematic format that brings together film, friends, food and fun.

This weekend, Popcorn Pop-Up Cinema will be screening one of the most spectacular movies of 2018 – Black Panther. Best part, it’s free! Grab your loved ones and enjoy a movie with your loved ones under the stars!

Black Panther Screening by Popcorn Pop-Up Cinema
Date & Time: 30th December 2018 | 8pm – 10.30pm
Location: Esplanade Park, Connaught Drive, 179682
Website

Also Read Last Minute Christmas Shopping At Orchard? Here Are The Cheapest Places To Park

The Ultimate Guide To Upcoming Concerts: 2019 Edition

Singaporeans are definitely spoilt for choice when it comes to concerts. There are so many artists and performers who make Singapore a stop in their world tour, or even as part of a music festival.

With 2019 less than two months away from us, the year is already looking pretty solid with a number of announced upcoming concerts in Singapore. It can be hard to keep track of upcoming concerts, so we’ve come up with a definitive guide that will be constantly updated.

Now there’s no need for multiple tabs and searching.

January

1. Slash ft. Miles Kennedy & The Conspirators

Grammy-winning, guitar god, Slash will will bless Singapore in the flesh in January 2019.

The legend whose real name is Saul Hudson, will play an exclusive, one-night-only show here with his band Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators. Myles Kennedy is one of the much-feted lead vocalists alive today – known for his huge vocal range that spans four octaves and eight semitones.

Since his reputation-cementing tenure as the lead guitarist of Guns N’ Roses and his stint at the forefront of Velvet Revolver‘s six-string barrage, Slash has blazed his own trail as a solo artist with a vast catalog of chart-blasting solo albums.

This will, undoubtedly, be a historic night.

Slash ft. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators
Date: 8 January 2019 
Venue: The Coliseum
Ticket price: $148 – $228 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Bandwagon
Website

2. Taeyeon

K-pop star Taeyeon of iconic girl group Girls’ Generation – also known as SNSD – will be bringing her distinctive vocals to Singapore with a full-fledged solo concert in January next year. This will be the very first time the multi-award winning singer is touring Singapore for a full-length concert ever since her solo debut in 2015.

No stranger to Singapore, she was one of the headline performers at South Korean pop music festival HallyuPopFest held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium earlier this year.

She is recognised as one of the most iconic and versatile female singers of the K-POP world and is widely regarded as a “talented vocalist” for her soulful vocals. Taeyeon charmed fans of the group and later released solo songs such as I, featuring South Korean rapper Verbal Jint.

Taeyeon Live In Singapore 2019
Date: 12 January 2019 
Venue: Singapore Expo Hall 1
Ticket price: $148 – $288 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: IMC Live Global
Website

3. Taking Back Sunday

If you can’t believe that Taking Back Sunday have been around for 20 years, you’re not alone, because they can’t either.

From the band’s landmark 2002 debut, Tell All Your Friends, to their most recent full-length, 2016’s Tidal Wave, Taking Back Sunday have evolved from a key player in the early 2000s emo scene to a genre-defying rock band. This fact is evidenced on Twenty, a 21-song collection set for release in January 2019 that spans all seven of their full-lengths.

Whether your introduction to the band was singing along to “A Decade Under The Influence” or hearing “MakeDamnSure” or “Sink Into Me”, Twenty is a look back at some of the highlights from this unlikely group of musical misfits.

Taking Back Sunday
Date: 19 January 2019
Venue: The Pavillion @ Far East Square
Ticket price: $108 standard, $118 doors (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: LAMC Productions
Website

4. BTS

K-pop boyband sensation BTS is coming to Singapore for a large-scale concert in January. Arguably the world’s biggest K-pop group, the K-pop juggernaut has been an unstoppable force in recent years, even gracing the latest cover of Time magazine and giving a speech at the United Nations in September

Known for hits such as “Fake Love” and “Blood Sweat And Tears”, will return to Singapore as part of their Love Yourself World Tour and will make history as the first K-pop act to play at the National Stadium

BTS Love Yourself World Tour
Date: 19 January 2019
Venue: National Stadium
Ticket price: $88 – $348 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Live Nation, One Production
Website

February

1. BLACKPINK

YG darlings BLACKPINK will be making their way to Singapore on 15 February 2019 for their upcoming world tour. Aside from Singapore, the quartet will also be heading to other Asian cities including Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong, Manila, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei.

As one of the biggest and most successful K-pop groups today, BLACKPINK has made music history not only in Korea, but also worldwide. The four-member girl group – comprising Jisoo, Jennie, Lisa and Rose – are best known for smash hits like Ddu-Du Ddu-Du, which peaked at No. 55 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts earlier this year.

BLACKPINK
Date: 15 February 2019
Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium
Ticket price: $128 – $268 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Live Nation, One Production
Website

2. Nickelback

Iconic Canadian rock band, Nickelback is set to make its long-awaited debut in Singapore in 2019. They released their highly anticipated ninth studio album Feed The Machine in June of 2017, which debuted in the Top 5 on the Billboard charts and spent the better part of 2017 and 2018 performing over 80 sold-out shows around the world.

Their inescapable and irresistible smash “How You Remind Me” was named Billboard’s ‘Top Rock Song of the Decade’ and was No. 4 on the Top 10 songs of the 2000’s list. With more than 23 chart-topping singles and fans spanning the globe, Nickelback boasts twelve consecutive sold-out world tours, playing to well over eight million diehard and adoring fans.

With decades of shows and albums under its belt, look forward to be treated to an assortment of rock anthems from the 2000s!

Nickelback
Date: 20 February 2019
Venue: Zepp@BIGBOX
Ticket price: $128 (Early Bird), $138 (Standard)
Organiser: LAMC Productions
Website

3. Seungri 

Seungri from K-pop group BIGBANG will perform in Singapore as part of a solo tour promoting his album The Great Seungri.

The Great Seungri is his first full album since his debut 12 years ago, following two successful extended play records VVIP and Let’s Talk About Love. Fans would not want to miss the opportunity to see Seungri live as it may be his last solo tour before he returns to South Korea and serve in the military.

Seungri
Date: 23 February 2019
Venue: The Star Theatre
Ticket price: $148 – $288
Organiser: CHENMEI Culture and CK Star Entertainment
Website

4. Years & Years 

British synth-pop band Years & Years is returning to Asia in 2019. This marks the trio’s first fully-fledged Southeast Asia tour, although they were recently in Singapore for an exclusive promo show to promote their latest album, Palo Santo.

The trio – frontman Olly Alexander and musicians Mikey Goldsworthy and Emre Turkman – are best known for hit songs such as King and Foundation from their debut album Communion, which topped the British charts when it was released in 2015.

Earlier in 2018, they released the follow-up, Palo Santo, which has popular songs like If You’re Over Me and Sanctify. The album received rave views from the music press.

Years & Years – The Palo Santo Tour
Date: 27 February 2019
Venue: The Star Theatre
Ticket price: $88 – 148 (excl. booking fees)
Organiser: Live Nation
Website

March

1. Blue

All Rise for the long awaited British boyband Blue Live in Singapore! Known for their iconic hits like “All Rise”, “Guilty”, “If You Come Back”, “Best In Me” “U Make Me Wanna”, “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word”, and many more!

The quartet has released three studio albums so far, all of which reached number one in the United Kingdom. For one night only, join Blue in this memorable night of pumping hits and relive all the emotional ballads from the best times of our lives!

Blue Live In Singapore 2019
Date: 2 March 2019
Venue: ZEPP@BigBox Singapore
Ticket price: $108 $198 (excl. booking fees)
Organiser: Mode Productions
Website

2. Kodaline

On Politics of Living, Kodaline teamed up with some of the hottest production and writing talent imaginable including hitmaker supreme Steve Mac (Ed Sheeran, Liam Payne), pop guru Johnny Coffer (Rag’N’Bone Man, Beyoncé), Jonas Jeberg (Dizzee Rascal, Kylie Minogue), Stephen Harris (Miles Kane, Kaiser Chiefs) as well as long-time collaborator Johnny McDaid (P!NK).

Their latest album is a delightful treat and surrounds big choruses with digital rhythms, glimmering piano riffs, and synths.

Kodaline took Singapore by storm at their debut gig in 2015. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see these guys live in 2019!

Who’s ready to be born again?

Kodaline Live In Singapore 2019
Date: 5 March 2019
Venue: ZEPP@BIGBOX
Ticket Prices: $128 early bird, $138 standard (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: LAMC Productions
Website

3. Maroon 5

Growing up, if you spent all your time, singing in the shower and crooning about heartbreak, then I’ve got news for you. Maroon 5  will be bringing their ‘Red Pill Blues‘ World Tour to Singapore on 7 March 2019!

The band, fronted by lead singer Adam Levine, last performed in Singapore during the 2015 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix.

Red Pill Blues is the sixth studio album by Maroon 5. It was released on 3 November 2017 and spawned hit singles such as ‘Cold’, ‘What Lovers Do’, ‘Don’t Wanna Know’, and ‘Girls Like You’.

2019 has never felt further at this point.

Maroon 5 ‘Red Pill Blues’ World Tour Live In Singapore
Date: 7 Mar 2019
Venue: National Stadium
Ticket Prices: $118 – $268 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Live Nation
Website

4. HONNE

Following two back-to-back sold out shows in 2016, Honne will be returning to Singapore for a one-night-only show that is guaranteed to be a sold out affair as well.

In little under two years, HONNE have become the band to fall in love with, and to. A term with no Western equivalent, the origins of HONNE lie in the Japanese word meaning ‘True Feelings’. The British electro-R&B duo is currently touring the world in support of their latest albumLove Me/Love Me Not.

Honne Love Me/Love Me Not Asian Tour 2019
Date: 11 & 12 March 2019
Venue: Capitol Theatre
Ticket Prices: $78 – $98 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Moonbeats Asia
Website

5. Pet Shop Boys

English synth-pop veterans Pet Shop Boys will be back in Singapore for a one night only show.

The upcoming Singapore show is part of their global Super Tour which started in 2016 and is in support of their 13th album, Super, released in the same year. They last performed here in 2014 at the Singapore Grand Prix.

They’re best known for pop hits such as West End Girls (1984), their 1993 cover of Village People’s Go West and You Only Tell Me You Love Me When You’re Drunk (2000).

Pet Shop Boys The Super Tour
Date: 26 March 2019
Venue: The Star Theatre
Ticket price: $128 – $228 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Lushington Entertainments
Website

April

1. John Mayer

John Mayer is coming to Asia.

The world-renowned musician will be kicking off his world tour in Australia and Asia which is set to take place between March and April. Further information surrounding the shows, such as venues and ticketing details have yet to be announced!

John Mayer Australia and Asia Tour 2019
Date: 1 April 2019
Time: TBA
Venue: TBA
Ticket price: TBA
Organiser: Live Nation

2. Anne Marie

Best known for the chart-topping tunes ‘2002’, ‘FRIENDS’, ‘Rockabye’, ‘Ciao Adios’ and many more, breakthrough pop-star Anne-Marie will be back in Singapore for a one-night only performance on 9 April 2019 at the Capitol Theatre.

This time, she’ll be making stops in both Singapore and Hong Kong.

Just in October of this year, the infectiously seductive singer stopped by our shores for the very first time for The Speak Your Mind Tour. And to be honest, we couldn’t get enough of her chart-topping hits, so we’re definitely in for a treat in April 2019!

Anne Marie Live In Singapore
Date: 9 April 2019 (Tuesday)
Venue: Capitol Theatre
Ticket price: $98 – 128 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Lushington Entertainments
Website

3. Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, the best selling artist of 2017, is set to return to Singapore on 26 April 2019.

Following his two sold-out dates in Singapore in 2017, the upcoming show will be his largest one yet as he performs at the National Stadium for the very first time. His return to Asia will also include dates in Korea (April 21) and Bangkok (April 28).

At the moment, there is only one available date so fastest fingers first! Tickets are priced at $158 for standing and between $68 – $248 for seated.

May

1. Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan announced on his Facebook that the concert is part of his Bloom tour, which is his second and most recent studio album.

Released on 31 August 2018, the album spawned hits such as My! My! My! and Dance To This featuring Ariana Grande. You might also know some of his hits Youth and Wild off his debut studio debut album Blue Neighbourhood.

Troye Sivan’s Bloom tour in Asia includes stopovers in Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Manila, Hong Kong and Bangkok.

Troye Sivan “The Bloom Tour” Singapore
Date: 3 May 2019
Venue: The Star Theatre
Ticket price: $98 – $258 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Live Nation
Website

2. Jason Mraz

Missed his recent concert? Well, we have great news for you. Jason Mraz will be performing in Singapore at The Star Theatre on 11 May 2019 – as part of his Good Vibes Tour 2019. The multiple GRAMMY Award winner Jason Mraz is set to perform at the 5,000-capacity auditorium, which is a lot smaller as compared to his recent concert at the National Stadium.

Just two days (27 October) after performing at the National Stadium in Singapore, Mraz revealed his Asia 2019 six-date tour. Kicking off the whirlwind set of shows in Manila on May 8^th, bringing his brand of soulful folk-pop to Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok and rounding off the performances at the Taipei Arena on May 25^th 2019.

Jason Mraz Good Vibes Tour 2019
Date: 11 May 2019
Venue: The Star Theatre
Ticket Prices: $98 – $198 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Lushington Entertainments
Website

3. LAUV

American singer-song writer Lauv will return to Asia for an extensive tour in May of 2019, titled the Blue Boy Tour.

He has been making waves across the globe over the past two years, having released a slew of hits including ‘I Like Me Better’, ‘A Different Way’ with DJ SNAKE and most recently, ‘There’s No Way’ with Julia Michaels.

Lauv’s Asia tour will see the rising star perform 10 shows across two weeks in May. Stops include Mumbai, Manila, Cebu, Jakarta and more.

Lauv Asia Tour
Date: 15 & 16 May 2019
Venue: Capitol Theatre
Ticket price: $108 (excl. booking fee)
Organiser: Lushington Entertainments
Website

August

1. LANY

Lany
Venue: TBC
Date: 10 August 2019
Ticket Prices: TBC
Organiser: TBC
Website

September

1. The 1975

The 1975 are making their highly-anticipated return to Singapore since their last show at Laneway Festival in 2016. The pop-rock quartet announced dates for the Asian legs of their upcoming tour in support of their recent album A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships.

Aside from popular tracks off their discography so far, Singapore fans can also expect to be treated to live versions of The 1975’s new companion record, Notes On A Conditional Form – which frontman Matt Healy previously teased that it would be released sometime in 2019.

The 1975 Live In Singapore 2019
Date: 16 September 2019
Venue: The Star Theatre
Ticket price: $88 – $148
Organiser: Now/Live
Website

Also Read There’s An Underground Music Joint In Bukit Timah That’s So Secret, You’re Driven And Blindfolded There

Last Minute Christmas Shopping At Orchard? Here Are The Cheapest Places To Park

Orchard Road is one area in Singapore where it’s notoriously expensive to park your car.

I’m sure we’ve all experienced the horror of arriving at the car park exit gantry, only to find that we’ve racked up over $10 in parking fees (true story). And that’s on top of all the money we’ve spent shopping.

Unless you have loads of things to carry, or are travelling with kids in tow, there’s just no justifying spending that kind of money on what is essentially a place to put your car while you run around doing your errands.

As someone who’s in town way too often, here are the cheapest places to park your car no matter where in town you need to go.

Cheapest Parking In Orchard: Weekdays Before 5/6pm

1. Far East Plaza [14 Scotts Road, S(228213)]

Mon – Fri: $1.07 for 1st hr, $1.07 for next subsequent 30min (before 5pm)

2. Plaza Singapura [68 Orchard Road, S(238839)]

Mon – Fri: $1.28 for 1st hr, $0.43 for next subsequent 15min (before 6pm)

3. Lucky Plaza [304 Orchard Road, S(238863)]

Mon – Fri: $1.93 for 1st hr, $1.28 for next subsequent 30min (before 5pm)

4. Atrium @ Orchard [60 Orchard Road, S(238889)]

Mon – Fri: $1.28 for first hour, $0.43 for subsequent 15 min (before 6pm)

5. The Cathay [2 Handy Road, S(229233)]

Mon – Fri: $1.40 per 30 minutes (8am to 9:59am), $1.40 per hour (10am to 5:59pm)

6. Orchard Central [181 Orchard Road, S(238896)]

Mon – Fri: $2.14 for 1st hr, $1.07 for next subsequent 30min (before 6pm)

7. *SCAPE [2 Orchard Link, S(237978)]

Mon – Fri: $2.05/hr (before 5pm)

8. The Centrepoint [176 Orchard Road, S(238843)]

Mon – Fri: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.50 for next subsequent 30min (before 5pm)

Cheapest Parking In Orchard: Weekdays After 5/6pm

1. Atrium @ Orchard [60 Orchard Road, S(238889)]

Mon – Fri: $2.57 per entry (extended to 2.59am on Fri and eve of PH)

2. ION Orchard [2 Orchard Turn, S(238801)]

Mon – Thurs: $3.00 per entry (from 5pm-11:59pm), $1.07 per hour (12am to 7:59am)

*Parking on Friday will be slightly expensive: $3.74/entry (from 6pm to 11.59pm). Best to park from Mon – Thurs instead.

3. Plaza Singapura [68 Orchard Road, S(238839)]

Mon – Fri: $2.57 per entry (extended to 2.59am on Fri and eve of PH)

4. The Cathay [2 Handy Road, S(229233)]

Mon – Fri: $3.00/entry (after 6pm)

5. Singapore Shopping Centre [190 Clemenceau Avenue, S(239924)]

Mon – Fri: $3 per entry (after 8pm)

6. Street Parking at Penang Road

Mon – Fri: $0.70 per 30 min (after 5pm)

7. Street Parking At Angullia Park [Angullia Park, S(239974)]

Mon – Fri: $0.80 per 30min (5pm to 10.30pm),  $0.70 per 30min (10.30pm to 7am the following day)

8. Street Parking at Grange Road/Somerset Road

Mon – Fri: $0.80 per 30min (5pm to 10.30pm),  $0.70 per 30min (10.30pm to 7am the following day)

9. The Centrepoint [176 Orchard Road, S(238843)]

Mon – Fri: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.50 for next subsequent hr (after 5pm)

Cheapest Parking In Orchard: Saturdays

1. Street Parking at Penang Road

Sat: $1.20 per 30 min (before 5pm), $0.70 per 30 minutes (5pm – 10.30pm)

2. Street Parking At Angullia Park [Angullia Park, S(239974)]

Sat: $1.30 per 30 min (7am to 11am), $1.50 per 30 minutes (11am to 5pm), $0.80 per 30 min (after 5pm)

*Best to park after 5pm

3. Street Parking at Grange Road/Somerset Road

Sat: $1.30 per 30 min (7am to 11am), $1.50 per 30 minutes (11am to 5pm), $0.80 per 30 min (after 5pm)

*Best to park after 5pm

4. Plaza Singapura [68 Orchard Road, S(238839)]

Sat: $2.57 for 1st 2hr, $0.43 for next subsequent 15min (3am to 5.59pm), $2.57/entry (after 6pm)

5. The Cathay [2 Handy Road, S(229233)]

Sat: $1.40/hr (before 6pm), $3.00/entry (after 6pm)

6. Atrium @ Orchard [60 Orchard Road, S(238889)]

Sat: $2.57 for 1st 2hr, $0.43 for next subsequent 15min (3am to 5.59pm), $2.57/entry (after 6pm)

Cheapest Parking In Orchard: Sundays

1. Street Parking at Penang Road

Sun: $0.70 per 30 min (7am – 10.30pm)

2. Street Parking At Angullia Park [Angullia Park, S(239974)]

Sun: $0.70 per 30 min (7am to 11am), $0.80 per 30 min (11am to 10:30pm), $0.70 per 30 min (10.30pm – 7am)

3. Street Parking at Grange Road/Somerset Road

Sun: $0.70 per 30 min (7am to 11am), $0.80 per 30 min (11am to 10:30pm), $0.70 per 30 min (10.30pm – 7am)

4. Plaza Singapura [68 Orchard Road, S(238839)]

Sun: $2.57 for 1st 2hrs, $0.43 for subsequent 15mins  (3am to 5:59pm), $2.57 per entry (6pm to 11:59pm)

5. The Cathay [2 Handy Road, S(229233)]

Sun: $1.40/hr (before 6pm), $3.00/entry (after 6pm)

6. Atrium @ Orchard [60 Orchard Road, S(238889)]

Sun: $2.57 for 1st 2hr, $0.43 for next subsequent 15min (before 6pm), $2.57/entry (after 6pm)

7. The Centrepoint [176 Orchard Road, S(238843)]

Sun: $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.50 for next subsequent 30min (before 5pm), $2.00 for 1st hr, $1.50 for next subsequent hour (after 5pm)

8. Singapore Shopping Centre [190 Clemenceau Avenue, S(239924)]

Sun: $2.50 for 1st hour, $1.25 for subsequent 30 min (8am to 8pm), $3 per entry (after 8pm)

*Parking here is cheaper after 8pm

The next time you’re in town, whether to shop, go on a date, or watch a movie, we hope this guide comes in handy! Hopefully, you’ll also have discovered some new car parks you never knew existed through this!

Also Read There’s An Underground Music Joint In Bukit Timah That’s So Secret, You’re Driven And Blindfolded There

There’s An Underground Music Joint In Bukit Timah That’s So Secret, You’re Driven And Blindfolded There

You’ve got your speakeasies, hidden art galleries and secret museums. Now it’s time to skip the mainstream nightlife venues and go straight to where the coolest parties are at. Taking underground music to a whole new level is The Kave HQ.

This underground watering hole hosts guerilla music performances somewhere in the woods of Bukit Timah, but no one knows the exact address, even its regular party-goers.

Sounds interesting? Here’s what you can expect.

An 80s Inspired Cave

Opened since June this year, getting to Kave HQ involves meeting up with other guests at the gathering point and waiting for an old school Beetle or Kombi van to come pick you up. To ensure absolute secrecy, you’ll be blindfolded the entire journey.

Don’t worry, you’ll be seated with your best buds if you’re scared of being blindfolded. You can also try sneaking a peek along the ride, but it’s no fun without a little mystery and thrill!

What lies within might possibly the one of the coolest music joints in Singapore. Meet up with like-minded music enthusiasts and be transported to an 80s-inspired underground music scene featuring bricked walls, cement flooring, exposed pipes, dangling light bulbs, neon-lit signs and vintage furniture.

Kave HQ promises local acts, chill vibes and drinks – because what’s a party without booze? It’s a space for music lovers and musicians to jam with all night long. Their lineup includes local indie bands such as Disco Hue, .gif and resident group The Kavemen among many other artists in Asia’s indie pop scene.

You can also book the space for solemnisations and weddings if you’re looking to tie the knot in an indie setting. Upon confirmation, the space will be decorated with rose garlands and a mini altar – making it the perfect setting to declare your love for one another.

Huge fan of vintage cars? Immortalise your intimate moments inside one!

Keep your eyes peeled for their next gig. Since their location is a secret and you can’t exactly walk in at anytime of the day, keep a lookout for upcoming gigs on their Facebook page.

Their next gig is happening on 21st December with a special Christmas-themed set. Come dressed as an elf, reindeer or Santa as a special prize awaits the best dressed of the night. There’ll also be sips and nosh for the good and naughty – think Christmas Tarik cocktails and hearty beef stew!

Book your tickets for Jingle Dingle at Eventbrite. There are only 80 tickets available, so grab yours before they’re all gone! A ticket costs $38/pax but it’ll cost $32/pax for the first 50!

The Kave HQ
Upcoming Event: Jingle Dingle
Date & Time: 21 December 2019
Time:8pm – 11.30pm
Meeting point: The Grandstand Shuttle Pick Up Point (Carpark outside Giant)
Pick up timings: 7.15pm – 7:45pm
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Also Read A Cut Above The Rest – This Is Probably The Most Instagrammable Hair Salon In Singapore

(Header Image Source: @thekavehq)

Take A Magic Carpet Ride – Aladdin The Musical Is Flying To S’pore For Its Only Stop In Asia In 2019

Singapore’s entertainment calendar is perennially packed and musical theatre nerds should be particularly excited with the huge musical productions heading our way in the coming months.

These musicals aren’t just for theatre die-hards – you’re probably already familiar with them in other mediums, whether that be books or films. From Lion King to Beauty and The Beast and even Frozen, it’s not all uncommon for Disney movies to be reimagined for the Broadway stage. But the most beloved of them all is Aladdin.

Shining, Shimmering, Splendid

The Broadway sensation Aladdin The Musical will be premiering its Singapore debut at Marina Bay Sands from 21 July 2019 onwards. The show will run at the Sands Theatre, marking its one and only stop in Asia.

Making its world premiere four years ago at Broadway’s New Amsterdam Theatre on 20 March 2014, Aladdin The Musical quickly established itself as one of the biggest new blockbuster in recent years, welcoming close to 10 million people worldwide.

Based on the 1992 animated movie, the show follows the rebellious but lovable street urchin Aladdin on his journey of discovery, where he encounters the evil sorcerer Jafar, and beautiful, but headstrong, Princess Jasmine. He finds a lost lamp in the Cave of Wonders, which, once rubbed, releases the crowds favourite rugged and humorous Genie.

The cast will be decked out in extra bling – featuring 337 glittering costumes, 161 custom-made pairs of Arabian shoes, 712 different styles of beads 712, and almost 500,000 Swarovski crystals.

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime that the musical has to offer with its breathtaking visuals. The show will also be flying 60 tonnes of automation and staging equipment to Singapore, and 40 tonnes of exotic flying scenery to recreate A Whole New World, such as the fantasy city of Agrabah, the colourful marketplace, the lush palace of the Sultan and his daughter Princess Jasmine, and the legendary Cave Of Wonders.

Featuring all the songs from the classic Academy award winning film, including “Friend like Me”, “A Whole New World” and “Arabian Nights”, prepare to experience the unmissable theatrical magic that is Aladdin.

Aladdin The Musical will run from 21 July 2019 to 11 August 2018 at the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands. Tickets are available at SISTIC and www.marinabaysands.com/ticketing, starting at $68.

Not convinced yet? Catch the trailer for Aladdin The Musical here!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2jmDT64nJ0

From breathtaking sets to a fabulous cast, the beloved story of Aladdin comes to life in this spectacular new musical!

Aladdin The Musical
Venue: Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands
Date: 21 July 2019 – 11 August 2019
Price: $68 – $832 (VIP Box)
Website

Also Read Troye Sivan To Perform At The Star Theatre May 2019 – Tickets Go On Sale Dec 10

(Header Image Source: Aladdin The Hit Broadway Musical Facebook)

PSA: $100,000 Has Been Hidden Somewhere In Singapore And It’s Up For Grabs

With Christmas just around the corner, having some extra cash to fund your shopping trips is more important than ever (well, having extra cash is always important, but you get the point).

Now, there are several ways to obtain said cash — you could take the traditional route and get a job, or change your spending habits to save more of what you already have.

…or, you could embark on a treasure hunt to find a stack of money just lying somewhere.

Wait, How Much…?

Yup, you heard us right — in the second instalment of their HuntTheMouse campaign, promotions aggregator Sqkii (pronounced “squeaky”) have hidden $100,000 somewhere in Singapore.

Of course, it won’t be easy to find the money — the first clue posted on their Facebook page yesterday states that the “Mouse” — taking the form of a shiny gold coin — is hidden under “something”. Reaalll helpful, guys.

Thankfully, Sqkii have revealed several more hints since then, and will continue to post three a day until someone eventually finds the cash. Among other clues, we currently know that the Mouse is:

1) Afraid of heights,

2) not in a UNESCO site, and

3) is within 45 steps of a man-made structure.

On top of that, additional clues will also be posted on the WINK+ app, and physical hints can be found in MRT stations and trains on the Circle and North South lines as well.

If you aren’t keen on fighting with what is probably a good chunk of the population, Sqkii have teamed up with venues such as Sentosa and the Singapore Sports Hub to hide silver coins worth $1,000 as well.

To put things in perspective, it took 23 days to find last year’s Mouse, so it’s probably still anyone’s game right now. If you happen to have some free time this end of year period, this sure beats aimlessly walking around Orchard road for the 15th time.

Website I Facebook

Also Read Relieve Stress Like A Barbarian – Hurl Axes At S’pore’s First Indoor Axe Throwing Range From $28 An Hour

Header Image: Sqkii

Cereals-ly? Get Your Cereal Fix At The New Kellogg’s Cafe For Just $2 A Bowl

If you’ve ever thought that taking a quick coffee break, powering through a work project, or just catching up with a friend would be better over a bowl of cereal, Kellogg’s Cereal Kafe at Ang Mo Kio Hub is the casual hangout spot of your breakfast-loving dreams.

Although it’s located in the not-so-exciting, auntie-paradise that is FairPrice Xtra, this new space sees cereal fans dropping by for a quick bowl. It may not be as cool and edgy as its overseas counterparts, but if you’re really craving for a bowl of Coco Pops or Froot Loops, it’ll do the trick.

Cereal For Days

Open daily from noon to 8pm – meaning you can’t have cereal for breakfast, oddly enough – Kellogg’s Cereal Kafe offers a variety of cereal, pastries and dessert.

Flavours in the selection includes Corn Flakes, Coco Pops, Frosties, Froot Loops, Rice Krispies, Mueslix and Special K. Each $2 serving comes with either full cream or low fat milk.

Before you start complaining that you can make a bowl of cereal yourself at home, the menu includes more than just a cereal bar with a wide array of toppings, including goji berries, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds ($0.50 each) which you can add to your bowl.

Not feeling up for cereal? They offer a variety of heavenly desserts served with yoghurt and delicious pastries such as cupcakes, muffins, cakes, cookies, and mini bread loaves as well.

With a variety of options and limitless customisations, Kellogg’s Cereal Kafe should elicit return visits from any cereal fan!

Kellogg’s Cereal Kafe
Address: FairPrice Xtra, #B2-40 Ang Mo Kio Hub, 53 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3
Opening Hours: 12pm – 8pm, daily
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Also Read Prepare For Truffle, Make It Double – Kanshoku’s Ramen Is A Truffle Lover’s Dream

(Header Image Source: Kellogg’s Singapore)

“My Toilet Routine Became Clockwork” – What Drinking Kombucha Every Day For A Week Does To Your Body

From acai and goji berry to avocado and kale, ‘superfoods’ have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. Despite these food items having been around since forever, why have they been marketed as though no one knew about their benefits?

I never understood the importance of gut health until I was falling sick more often and feeling tired and lethargic all the time. After a severe case of food poisoning last year and not getting proper rest, I started getting really interested in probiotics to help strengthen my immune system.

Probiotics are good bacteria that help stabilise your gut and strengthens your immune system. They can be found in fermented food like yogurt, kimchi and kombucha.

Now, I’ve always been a skeptic of kombucha as it’s been overhyped over the last couple of years. After a first bad experience drinking it in San Francisco, I stayed away from kombucha for the longest time ever. But after reading up on some health benefits, I knew I had to give it another chance.

So I went straight to the source and sought help from experts instead. And I came across Winnie And Zhiwei, founders of local kombucha and kefir makers Craft & Culture.

Does Kombucha Actually Work?

But while skeptics (like me) definitely aren’t wrong in believing that superfoods could simply be overhyped fads, there are also individuals who have seen actual health benefits after incorporating these items into their diet.

One of these skeptics-turned-believers is Winnie, co-founder of local kombucha and kefir makers Craft & Culture. After experiencing food allergies, indigestion problems and falling ill frequently, she was introduced to Kombucha by a friend who suggested that it would help boost her immune system naturally.

For the unacquainted, Kombucha is a fermented drink brewed with tea, sugar, water and a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). It tastes like something between a diluted apple cider vinegar or Korean fruit vinegar – depending on the types of teas and sugar used.

Its origins date back to ancient China, one of the first civilizations to recognize the health benefits of kombucha. Its benefits were also backed by researchers in Switzerland who reported that “drinking kombucha was similarly beneficial as eating yogurt”.

It’s the probiotics that really make this beverage a healthy one. There are good bacteria and bad bacteria inside our gut and probiotics tend to fit in the good bacteria category, as they are shown to have positive health benefits on our digestive system. Having a regular intake of probiotics prevents you from falling sick because your immune system is 80% dependent on the health of your intestines.

On the other hand, Kefir is a fermented milk drink which originated from the north Caucasus Mountains and is fermented from Kefir cultures “which are a combination of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. While it reminds me a lot of Greek yogurt, Kefir is said to have about 20 times more probiotics and nutrients.

The Experiment

In order to see for myself if kombucha and kefir really does deliver on its health benefits, including help with bloating, digestion and improving my gut health overall, I decided to drink it for a week.

Winnie and Zhiwei packed my first batch of kombucha and kefir and I couldn’t wait to try it out. I was excited as the drinks came in a variety of flavours so I knew I had something new to try everyday. As I have poor digestive health, I was told to start with 1/3 of kefir in the morning and half a bottle of kombucha in the afternoon.

They both warned me that kombucha and kefir loads your system with good bacteria and this can cause a mini ‘war’ in your gut. I gave a faint smile and mentally prepped myself for a long week at work (or the toilet for my case).

The First Few Days

I started my morning as instructed. I was a huge fan of the kefir as it reminded me of drinking mango lassi but the bad news was 1/3 kefir proved to be too much for my sensitive gut to handle. I ended up running to the toilet an hour later.

It didn’t help that I drank half a bottle of kombucha a few hours later. The first 2 days of drinking kombucha and kefir was truly hell as I was feeling bloated half the time and I felt really uncomfortable throughout the day. The solution? I gave my gut time to rest and continued taking the probiotics but in smaller amounts. It got better on the third day and I found myself being able to down the entire bottle for breakfast and lunch.

Major Changes That I Noticed

As the days passed, I found myself feeling lighter and happier while making my way to work. I swapped my usual order of kopi siew dai for a bottle of kefir and kombucha everyday and noticed that I was feeling more refreshed and alert even if I didn’t get enough sleep the previous night. For someone who starts feeling sluggish and reaching out of the munchies at 4pm, I felt a whole lot better once I included more probiotics in my diet.

Intrigued, I did a little bit more research and found out that probiotics could relieve mental health conditions like stress and anxiety. Which makes complete sense as if one had an unhealthy gut and lifestyle, less dopamine is produced. This means that people with unhealthy guts tend to be more unhappy. Connecting the dots between gut health and brain health was a life-changing moment for me.

After including kombucha in my diet, I was able to have a “smooth move” every morning and my toilet routine became clockwork. Drinking kombucha and kefir regularly seems to have really improved my gut health in just a week.

Will I Keep Going?

After a week of drinking kombucha and kefir daily, I must admit that I’m now a convert. I’ve previously had kombucha that tasted very “yeasty” but Craft & Culture’s beverages proves that healthy drinks don’t have to taste bland.

I love how it tastes and – more importantly – how it makes me feel. If it means improving my gut health and overall happiness, I’ll probably up the dosage of kombucha to 2 bottles per day.

Give kombucha and kefir a try and check out the offerings at Craft & Culture if you’re looking to improve your digestive health!

Craft & Culture
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Also Read A Uniquely Singaporean Omakase: Feast On An 8-Course Meal Made With Local Produce In A HDB Flat For $99

(Header Image Source: Discover SG)