5 Secret Spots In Gardens By The Bay That’ll Make You Wonder WTH They’re Doing There
D0 you know that Gardens by the Bay is the inspiration to the fictional planet Xandar featured in the hit Marvel movie Guardians of the Galaxy?
Touted as the key to transforming Singapore from a ‘Garden City’ into a ‘City in a Garden’, you might be familiar with the Cloud Forest, Flower Dome and the iconic Supertrees.
But there is more to this popular attraction than meets the eye. And you’ll surely go…
Let’s find out.
1. A desert
What are you doing here, cacti-desert thingamajig?!
(Image Credit: Gardens by the Bay)
Get back to the desert, yo!
(Image Credit: Gardens by the Bay)
Not many know about this outdoor garden that features desert plants.
Aptly named Sun Pavilion, it is home to a whopping 1000 desert plants comprising of 100 different species.
Unlike the Flower Dome, admission is free.
Poke around (get it?) here if you have time.
2. A big secret
This aquarium is a fresh breath of water for those who want to look at something other than the usual floral stars in Gardens by the Bay.
Located just a stone’s throw away from Sun Pavilion, the Big Fish Aquarium lives up to its namesake- it houses large fish, duh.
(Image Credit: Trevellers)
Not many know about this hidden aquarium as it is not featured on any of the Gardens by the Bay maps.
Here, you can spot creatures like the pig-nosed turtles, catfish, and the one of the world’s largest fish, the arapaima.
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Credit: 
(Image Credit: Nudge Sustainability Hub)
From a pangolin to a hornbill, you are sure to be impressed by the efforts that have been taken to creating these structures.
(Image Credit: Gardens by the Bay)
Not only that, this quiet park gives you a beautiful view of Marina Bay Sands. A concrete jungle next to a ‘real’ jungle!
4. Going back in time
Step back to 500 million years ago in this part of the World of Plants.
(Image Credit: Gardens by the Bay)
Like its name suggests, you can discover many ancient species of plants like the Multipinnate Cycas and Chinese Desmos here.
Because Gardens by the Bay is so cool, you can even learn about the rare dinosaur-era plants here and also, how they have evolved.
The ‘Discover’ aspect of the park allows you to not only rest your weary feet but also transport you back in time. Much wow!
5. A timely gift
This beautiful Floral Clock was created by Audemars Piguet (a luxury watch maker) for Gardens by the Bay in celebration of Singapore’s 50th birthday in 2015.
Made from flowers such as the the Spider Flower and Madagascar Periwinkle, this clock is truly a sight to behold.
(Image Credit: Watch Collecting Lifestyle)
Luxury watch, what are you doing there? Get back on my wrist!
(Image Credit: Watch Collecting Lifestyle)
Located nearby are also sculptures worth visiting like the Guardian Lions and the Resting Budai. Further down leads you to the mysteries planet- or more commonly known as the ‘floating baby’.
Yea, Gardens by the Bay is pretty weird. We’re so proud of our SuperTrees, but WTH are these secret spots doing in our favourite garden?
We kid. Thank you Gardens by the Bay, for the desert, clock, and everything else.
(Header image credit: Nudge Sustainability Hub, words by editor)
Gardens By The Bay Presents Yet Another Date Night Opportunity. Hint: It Ends This Week!
From 3 to 18 September, in conjunction with Mid-Autumn festival, Gardens by the Bay will be transformed into a whole new light.
With dazzling displays of elaborately handcrafted lantern sets, multimedia installation, nightly performances and many other amazing highlights, Gardens by the Bay’s event is one you must not miss. Check out the line ups for this exciting event happening at the Gardens!
1. Be Amazed By Giant Lantern Displays
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Credit: Gardens By The Bay[/caption]
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Credit: Gardens By The Bay[/caption]
Join in the spectacular display of lanterns at the Gardens this Mid-Autumn. Giant lanterns measuring up to 27 metres will be displayed at various locations in the Gardens.
Time: 7pm – 11pm daily
Location: Golden Garden, near Conservatories, Supertree Grove and Dragonfly Bridge
2. Stroll Through The Colonnade Of Lights
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Credit: Gardens By The Bay[/caption]
As you take a stroll along the Colonnade, appreciate the 4,000 colourful lanterns hanging above.
These paper lanterns are decorated by the community including local and international students and senior citizens.
Time: 7pm – 11pm daily
Location: Colonnade (Supertree Grove)
3. Be wowed by Ron Arad’s 720°
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Credit: singaporemotherhood.com[/caption]
Brought in by the Singapore International Festival of Arts, be wowed by the massive installation by designer extraodinaire Ron Arad.
He presents 720°, a monumental outdoor video installation with great creativity. At 18 metres in diameter, the installation is made up of 5,600 silicon cords of over 37 kilometres in length.
Drop by the Meadow to experience this magical interactive stage.
Time: 7pm – 11pm daily
Location: Meadow
4. Indulge In A Hearty Spread
Not only will you get to feast on some of your salted egg yolk favourites, there’s even chilli crab mantous!
Indulge in your favourite Asian goodies and eat to your heart’s content while you soak in the festivities.
Time: 6pm – 10.30pm daily
Location: Colonnade (Supertree Grove)
5. Craft And Fringe Activities
Try out various activities from lantern decorating, calligraphy to guess the riddle at the craft booths. Do note that some activities are chargeable.
Have fun reliving your childhood decorating and making lanterns and put them to good use for the night!
Time: 7pm – 10pm daily **Chinese Riddles: 8pm – 9.30pm
Location: Supertree Grove
6. Enjoy Cultural Performances By Traditional Art Groups
Though Mid-Autumn festival is largely celebrated by the Chinese community, multi-ethnic groups will be putting up cultural performances at the Supertree Grove.
Themed “Moon | Conversations”, traditional art groups will be putting up performances ranging from evergreen Chinese songs to contemporary Indian music.
Time: Mon to Thurs 8pm to 8.45pm, Fri to Sun, 7pm to 7.45pm & 8pm to 8.45pm, *12 Sep (Mon): 7pm to 7.45pm & 8pm to 8.45pm
Location: Supertree Grove
There are so many events happening at the Gardens this Mid-Autumn Festival!
Don’t forget to bring those lanterns and relieve your childhood memories of celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival. If you’re still thinking of where to go during this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival, the Gardens is definitely one you must not miss out!
(All images are by Your Ultimate Guide To The Most Decadent And Epic Singapore F1 After Parties
Pokemon Go Guide: How To Catch Pikachu & Where To Catch ‘Em All!
The Pokemon Go craze has hit Singapore. Unless you live a social-media-free life, your news feed is probably swamped with all things Pokemon. Like it or not, this craze is probably gonna be around for a couple of months. Whether you’re already playing, or late to the game, here’s our guide that will help you ace Pokemon Go!
Hidden Tips Every Trainer Should Know
Get A Pikachu When You Start
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Image source: Image credit: Credit: Jalan Tikus[/caption]
Where to get Razz Berry? You can get them at Pokestops! Where have we sighted or caught our Pikachus? Gardens By The Bay (near the car park exit), and Bishan CPF building!
Switch Off AR To Make Capturing Easier
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Image source: Image source: 
Image source: Phandroid[/caption]
Incense is extremely useful if you want to bring Pokemon towards your location. To activate Incense, tap the Pokeball, followed by ‘Items’ and click Incense (make sure you have Incense in your inventory, otherwise, get it at Pokestops). A robot vacuum cleaner looking item will show up and you’ll need to tap it one more time to activate it. A clock will appear and count down for 30 minutes. Incense works really well when you’re on the go. If you activate Incense when you’re static, you’ll only be able to lure one Pokemon in every 5-6 minutes.
Make Good Use Of Pink Petailed PokeStops
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Image souce: Tipsandtricksfor[/caption]
Once you’ve reached Level 5, you’ll be able to access gyms and put your mons in battles. Gym battles can be a little chaotic mess of tapping and swiping (tap to attack, swipe to dodge). During battles, you should keep your eyes at the series of squares underneath your Pokemon’s HP bar. When all the squares turn blue, you can unleash your mon’s “Special Power”. You can only use this special power once per battle.
Catching Pokemon For Candy
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Image source: Helloあsia Singapore[/caption]
Where To Catch ‘Em All?
Now that you’ve got some tricks up your sleeves, head to these hot spots around Singapore to expand your Pokedex. Just remember to be aware of your surroundings! Don’t put yourself and others in danger.
1. Orchard Road
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Image source: @kuekj[/caption]
Just look at the number of PokeStops! No surprise that Singapore’s most happening road is one of the most happening places to Poke hunt. According to eight Pokemon Gyms and 78 Pokestops can be found at 4 parks – Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, River Safari and the Singapore Zoo. The WRS has also developed Poke maps to help Trainers get the most from their hunt. One word of advice: Animals generally do not like intruders. Do not enter any of the animal exhibits!
3. Botanic Garden
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Image source: Redditor, “there are 5 Gyms, and Pokestops every 10 steps” at the Singapore Botanical Garden. And the best part of all, the Garden is shaded with many pitstops selling drinks and food. We’re pretty sure you won’t want to be Singapore’s first Pokemon Master to be hospitalised for dehydration! Other than that, do wear proper shoes and beware of dog poop
4. MRTs
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Image source: 
Image source: !
6. Chinese Garden
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Image source: maxres
Also read: Better Safe Than Sorry? But These 10 Hungry Ghost Superstitions Are Unbelievable!
Food, Flowers & Fun! Don’t Miss Singapore Garden Festival @ Gardens By The Bay!
A much-anticipated international garden and flower event, this year’s Singapore Garden Festival marks 10 years since its start in 2006, and it promises to be bigger than ever!
Whether you are a gardening enthusiast, a fan of past Gardens by the Bay exhibitions, or are simply keen to admire some beautiful landscaping designs, you’ll be delighted by what Gardens by the Bay has in store for you. Apart from the Singapore Garden Festival, you can look forward to nightly concerts and dining deals too!
Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) 2016
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Orchid ExtravaganzaImage credit: singaporegardenfestival.com[/caption]
Let’s start with the SGF 2016, which is on from now until 31 July. This year’s edition of the festival features the best of tropical horticulture and floral artistry. Local and internationally-acclaimed designers have taken part to create enchanting masterpieces at Gardens by the Bay. Spanning a 9.7-hectare space, there are interesting highlights for every type of festival goer.
Landscape & Fantasy Gardens
Check out the Landscape & Fantasy Gardens for landscaping inspiration by award-winning designers. Designers include local talents like John Tan and Raymond Toh who clinched the Silver-Gilt award at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show 2015. There’s also Ann Teo who received the Outstanding Award of Excellence and two Gold Awards at the 2015 Singapore Landscape Architects Award.
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Landscape & Fantasy GardensImage credit: singaporegardenfestival.com[/caption]
Floral Windows to the World
The exquisite Floral Windows to the World features both international names and budding local amateurs. This is the first year where local participants were identified through a public competition held in April this year. The top three winning displays are featured at the festival alongside international designers. Pay the exhibition a visit and be amazed by our upcoming design talents!
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Floral Windows to the WorldImage credit: singaporegardenfestival.com[/caption]
Celebrations! Floral Table Series
For more floral designs, the Celebrations! Floral Table Series showcases a myriad of delicate flower arrangements that will take your breath away. Plus, you can also learn how to bring such beautiful designs to life at the exhibition!
Celebrations! Floral Table Series
Image credit: singaporegardenfestival.com
Orchid Extravaganza
If you’re a fan of our national flower, this is a must-see. At the Orchid Extravaganza, you’ll get to walk through a colourful orchid wonderland, surrounded by countless gorgeous blooms.
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Orchid ExtravaganzaImage credit: singaporegardenfestival.com[/caption]
SGF Rocks! Free Nightly Performances
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Image credit: singaporegardenfestival.com[/caption]
As the sky turns dark, anticipate the performers that will take to the Meadow Stage and the Alfresco Stage (Free admission!) at the Marketplace.
The night will be livened up by the likes of Gentle Bones, Jack & Rai, Shirlyn & The UneXpected, and many more local musicians! With an extensive lineup, you can expect to hear a range of music genres, from R&B to pop and rock- there’ll definitely be something for everyone.
More information on the lineup here.
Dining Deals
Flowers aside, don’t miss the dining promotions that are running right now at Gardens by the Bay too!
Pollen
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Image credit: Pollen Singapore Facebook[/caption]
Boasting a lush Mediterranean garden setting, Pollen is located within the Flower Dome, with stunning waterfront views and vegetables coming straight from an in-house garden. Pollen is having an early dinner deal, where you can savour a sunset dinner at S$88++ per person for three courses. Booking and more information 
Image credit: Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant Facebook[/caption]
Right below the Flower Dome is this seafood restaurant that serves up iconic crowd favourites like the Chili Crab and for an innovative twist on the dish, the ‘Kopi’ Crab. Majestic Bay has a promotion for OCBC credit card holders, where S$88++ spent entitles you to a Signature Baked Rice with Assorted Seafood (U.P. $88) along with your meal. Booking and more information singaporegardenfestival.com, edited by author.)
Also, read [WIN] Tickets To A Romantic Movie With Your Date Under The Stars!
Cycle X Makan – 5 Best Food And Night Cycling Paths In SG
Picture this: you’re on a bicycle gliding down the beautifully paved roads of Singapore under the bright moonlight, only stopping for pedestrians and some of the best supper dishes in town. A breeze comes and goes, and the sights keep changing.
Not only is night cycling fun, it is also healthy. According to an Al Ameen Eating Corner
Address: #01-11, 35 Marsiling Industrial Estate Road 3 (Along Woodlands Ave 5), Singapore 739065
Tel: +65 6891 0893
Opening Hours: 24 hours
East Side, Beast Side
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Let’s admit it: The East has one of the best cycling paths, especially after hours. If you haven’t checked out East Coast Park, Changi Beach Park or Changi Village in the dark, now is the time. Plus, if you hang around, you may even catch a sunrise or get to admire the underbelly of a plane as it flies by.
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Food options nearby include Bedok Food Centre and Changi Village Hawker Centre which are both home to many local delights from hokkien mee to oyster omelettes.
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Route (2 hours): PCN Pitstop Pasir Ris Town Park, Bedok Reservoir Park, East Coast Park, Bedok Jetty, Coastal Park Connector, Changi Beach Park
Bedok Food Centre (also known as Bedok Corner)
Address: 1 Bedok Rd, Singapore 469572
Changi Village Hawker Centre
Address: 2 Changi Village Rd, Singapore 500002
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 6 AM – 2 AM
A Myriad of Parks
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Singapore is indeed a green city with indoor and outdoor gardens, trees planted by the sidewalks, and parks — lots of them! If you ever have trouble trying to find your way around this island nation, just keep a lookout for parks and the PCN — Park Connector Network — that links them all into one single cycling or running route.
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Food options nearby include pigging out at chicken rice restaurant Boon Tong Kee at Balestier, having a prata or two at Upper Thomson’s The Roti Prata House, or a burger at Fatboy’s The Burger Bar available at Balestier and Upper Thomson. Probably the best eat-and-cycle route ever.
Route (2 hours): Toa Payoh Town Park, Whampoa Park Connector, Kallang Park Connector, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West, Punggol Waterway Park, Punggol Park, Pelton Canal Park Connector
Boon Tong Kee
Address: 399/401/403 Balestier Road, Singapore 329801
Tel: +65 6254 3937
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 11 AM – 4.45 PM, 5.30 PM – 4.30 AM, and Sunday 11 AM – 4.45 PM and 5.30 PM – 3 AM
The Roti Prata House
Address: 246M Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574370
Tel: +65 6459 5260
Opening Hours: Friday to Saturday 24 hours, Sunday to Thursday 7 AM – 2 AM
Fatboy’s The Burger Bar
Address: 187 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574335 / 1 Jalan Rajah #01-01 Singapore 329133
Tel: +65 6252 8780 / +65 6268 8690
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 4 PM – 12 midnight, Friday to Sunday 12 PM – 12 midnight
The Bay Watch
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This has got to be one of the most underrated cycling paths in Singapore, especially if you don’t happen to live in the neighbourhoods mentioned in the route. Not only will you get an insight into what each estate is like, from the changing architecture to late night food options, you might even get to see various animals, from otters to roosters, going about their day in the concrete jungle.
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Food options nearby include Alexandra Village Food Centre and Zion Riverside Food Centre. If you’re hitting up the Zion Riverside Food Centre, make sure to reach by 1030 PM to dine like royalty. Famous stalls there include Noo Cheng Adam Road Prawn Noodle and Zion Road Fried Kwayteow.
Route (45 minutes): Holland Village, Commonwealth Crescent, Margaret Drive, Alexandra Canal Linear Park, Alexandra Park Connector, Zion Road, Gardens by the Bay
Alexandra Village Food Centre
Address: 120 Bukit Merah Lane 1, Singapore 150120
Zion Road Fried Kway Teow (Stall 17)
Address: 70 Zion Road, Singapore 247792
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 12 PM – 2.30 PM, 6.30 PM – 11 PM (Closed every other Monday)
Noo Cheng Adam Road Prawn Noodle (Stall 4)
Address: 70 Zion Road, Singapore 247792
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 12 PM – 3 PM, 6 PM – 11.30 PM, Saturday to Sunday (as well as PH) 12 PM – 1 AM
So, which route will you go for? Whichever path you choose, just don’t forget to follow Singapore’s PCN etiquette guide. If you’re cycling at night, ensure that your bicycle lights are turned on, and keep a safe distance from others on the road, even when there’s no traffic! It’s time to work out… and enjoy some good food while you’re at it.
Did we miss out your favourite night cycling route? Drop us a tip!
Also read: Hipster Hawkers: 5 Stalls That Are Redefining Hawker Culture
Don’t look down! 6 Sky-High Places In Singapore With Incredible Views
We often complain that there’s nothing much do in the city. Weekends can get a little routined (shopping, eating, shopping). Well, if you look for the right things at the right places, you might find something a little different. When you’re tired of the same old view, it’s time to look upwards (not down!) and check out these 6 spectacular sky-high places in Singapore!
1. Fort Siloso Skywalk, Sentosa
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BB7K8d7g-eS/?taken-at=776069788[/embed]If you think Sentosa is all about the beaches, this 11-storey high scenic aerial walkway will prove you wrong. Known as the tallest skywalk tower in Singapore, its distinctive S-shaped design is created to minimise heat and vibration. With a length of 181-metres long, the aerial walking trail allows visitors to enjoy a different view on each side: treetops, the sea, and also the rooftop of Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa!
Both Fort Siloso and the skywalk are free admission for all and there are guided tours for those who are interested to know more on the history of Fort Siloso. Free entry, good ventilation and only a 5-minute walk away from Fort Siloso, this is a great place for family adventures, friendly hangouts and dates too!
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BBDlqHPEJYJ/?taken-at=776069788[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/6OtdMlh5oZ/?taken-at=776069788[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_ZGkxTPt_E/?taken-at=776069788[/embed]2. The Pinnacle @ Duxon
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BDwylj_HXMn/?taken-at=1597675[/embed]Ever wonder how Singapore looks like from the view of an award-winning building? Just head to The light and sound show (free entry) which plays twice daily at 7.45pm and 8.45pm. Admire the gardens as the large canopies come alive at night, accompanied by music and sparkling lights. Entry fee of $5 for adults and $3 for kids to the skywalk seem reasonable for an exceptional experience of a lifetime.
[embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BDv915FkLUh/?taken-at=213075297&hl=en[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BDtPCUKIO9m/?taken-at=213075297&hl=en[/embed] [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BDvLHkFS8Qs/?taken-at=213075297&hl=en[/embed]So… do you still think that city life is boring? With six spectacular sky high places in the country, let’s start exploring! Whether it’s for a family outing or a date, these attractions will sure fit the bill for everyone. Which skywalk would you check out this weekend? Drop us a comment and let us know!
(Featured image credit: static.panoramio.com)
Also Read:
Singapore is a small country, and it’s certainly not boring. It just means that you have to look harder. More often than not, it’s about entertaining yourself in the place you live in. If you prefer not to spend too much money to travel across another continent, Discover SG’s got you covered. Free admission Ditch your pumps and Birkenstock, and opt for a pair of sensible footwear to have a stab at hiking down The Southern Ridges. At 10km long, it’s the hot new favourite place for history aficionados, nature lovers and selfie buffs. Free admission SPCA is always on the lookout for helpers and dog walkers to advocate their animal welfare cause. If you’re an animal lover, consider volunteering at the shelter to make a pup’s day. You’re going to go home with a sense of accomplishment. Free admission Here’s something you probably haven’t heard of: picnics are back in fashion. They’re so popular that there are companies here selling packed baskets! If your money is a wee tight, treat it as a DIY project. Set a time, pick a shady spot and I guarantee you’ll have butt-loads of fun. Free admission There’s something about Haji Lane. The quirky knick-knacks, the timeless fashion apparels, the aesthetically pleasing little shops. It’s a must-visit for every Singaporean (and tourist). Get a sneak peek at the charming town and its must-visit stores here. Free admission If you don’t know who Kenny Yap is, I, well, let’s leave it at that. Qian Hu, famous for its Dragon fishes, has been around the block since the late nineties. The fish farm may not be as glitzy as Orchard Road, but it still has its own rustic charm. Free admission A free outdoors drive-in movie screening? It certainly beats shivering uncontrollably in the cinema. Movie Mob was launched in 2009 and seven years later, it’s still going strong. Join their mailing list to get the first deets. also read: We’ve oohed and ahhed while we were in the Singapore Flyer capsule, but how many of us have actually experienced the Tiger Sky Tower? Not many of us, I’d presume. It’s not too late to have a go. Tickets cost S$18 for adults and S$10 for children. Estimated cost: >S$4.50 Ice-cream waffles? Nah, I’ll take unconventional local cuisine any day. Here are some recommendations to get you started on your foodie trip: Free admission Get away from the hustle and bustle, and escape to Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park to rewind. The rich biodiversity is something to behold. I wouldn’t be surprised if you stop to smell the flowers. Oh yeah, that Komodo dragon that’s staring at you like food? Don’t worry, it won’t kill you. It’s a water monitor lizard. also read: Free admission (duh) Say whatever you want about Stephenie Meyer (Twilight series), but you’ve got to admit it, she’s made reading cool again. If you’re looking for quality me-time, get on the bus and head to the library. Design fanatics can’t go wrong with Library@Orchard or Jurong Regional Library, and YA (young adult fiction) buffs should not miss Queenstown Public Library for its impressive collection. Depends You don’t have to spend a bomb at Gardens by the Bay. You can enjoy free admission for most of the sights. Take The World of Plants, Dragonfly and Kingfishers Lakes, Heritage Gardens and Sun Pavilion for instance. They’re enough to keep you entertained. Free admission If you appreciate casual dining and low-maintenance relaxation, look no further than Farmart Centre. You can have a prawning contest with your mates or feed the farm animals. Price: free, unless you end up going home with a puppy. Free admission Any children — or adult — will want to try this out. If playgrounds aren’t your cup of tea, grab your bikes, skateboards or fishing rods. What’s interesting about Woodlands Waterfront Park is that there’s a restaurant located at the jetty. Who knew? Cost: >S$8 Create art with a cotton swab and toothpick! An activity like this will hit you with the nostalgia bomb. If you can’t stand art, grab your pals and head down to the arcade (price varies). It’s much more satisfying than being cooped up alone in home playing Call Of Duty on your Xbox 360. Well, I don’t know if there are coconuts at the farm, but the name ‘Bollywood’ certainly brings the fruit to mind. The lush greenery is a marvel and reminds us to take a step back from our fast-paced, urban lifestyle. Entrance fee costs S$2. Admission is free for kids under 12 and seniors over 60. also read: Free admission Alexandra Canal Linear Park is like a pearl oyster. At first glance, there’s not much to look at. Look further and you’d feel like you’ve been had. If you spend ample time at the park, you’d see that there’s a rope playground and a scaled-down skate park for skateboarding enthusiasts. Free admission The Animal Resort is another lesser-known place in Singapore. Think of it as a mini zoo. You get to feed the animals, see what it’s like for a pet to get a haircut, and witness a dog training ground. Not much is known about The Library, except that it’s as secretive as hosting an underground supper club. What makes the bar so intriguing is that it’s by appointment only and guarded by a secret pass code. One writer at Popspoken recommends the Wonky Donkey ($17). Free admission To any acrophobic, attempting the Treetop Walk is as frightening as walking down the Yuntaishan glass walkway. Think carefully before you embark on this exhilarating mission. Get a friend you trust to come along with you and whatever you do, don’t look down! Cost: varies, depends on your resourcefulness Here are some ideas to get you started. You could play dodgeball at the basketball field. You could create your own name tag from scratch. Notice the acupuncture stones you often see at your HDB block? Use it. Skip on it. Run on it. Just make sure it’s not occupied by some elderly. Please, only proceed if you don’t mind getting weird looks. With these 20 wildly fun activities to do in Singapore for the cheap, we hope you’ll never complain of being bored! Adventure belongs to those to seek it. So go forth and have an adventure! Note: Price does not include parking fees and transport fares.20 Wildly Fun Outing Activities In Singapore Under S$19 – Most Are Free!
1. Go hiking at The Southern Ridges
[caption id="attachment_2936" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image credit: Pitt Urban Studies in Singapore[/caption]
2. Volunteer at SPCA
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3. Marvel at the flowers in Singapore Botanic Gardens
[caption id="attachment_2938" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Your Singapore[/caption]
4. Window-shop at Haji Lane
[caption id="attachment_2940" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Expat Living[/caption]
5. Make googly eyes at the fishes at Qian Hu Fish Farm
[caption id="attachment_2941" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Qian Hu Fish[/caption]
6. Watch a free movie outdoors
[caption id="attachment_2942" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Movie Mob By Ape[/caption]
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8. Forget hipster cafes, dine at hawker centres instead
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9. Test your endurance at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
[caption id="attachment_2945" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Angie and James Do Stuff[/caption]
Image credit: Today Online[/caption]
11. Admire the greenery at Gardens by the Bay
[caption id="attachment_2947" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Wikipedia[/caption]
12. Rub shoulders with animals at Farmart Centre
[caption id="attachment_2948" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Farmart Centre[/caption]
13. Attempt the humongous climbing structure at Woodlands Waterfront Park
[caption id="attachment_2949" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: White as Milk[/caption]
14. Turn back the hands of time at Creative Art Corner (or Timezone)
[caption id="attachment_2950" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: 许恩熙[/caption]
15. Dance with coconuts at Bollywood Veggies
[caption id="attachment_2951" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Bollywood Veggies[/caption]
Image credit: National Parks[/caption]
17. Feed the animals at The Animal Resort
[caption id="attachment_2953" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Tuan-min.com[/caption]
18. Sneak into The Library & have a drink
[caption id="attachment_2954" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Popspoken[/caption]
19. Get over your fear of heights at the Treetop Walk
[caption id="attachment_2961" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: National Parks[/caption]
20. Or better yet, go Sparta! with Running Man
[caption id="attachment_2962" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Soompi[/caption]
Featured image credit: Gardens by the Bay YouTube screen grab
9 Must-Know Laneway Festival 2016 Survival Tips
Everyone’s counting down the days to Singapore’s most anticipated event in January – St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival on 30 January (commonly referred to as Laneway).
This iconic indie music festival came to Singapore from Australia in 2012, and this year’s festival, held at the picturesque Gardens By The Bay, is the biggest yet.
For the first-timers or those who not-so-pleasant experience last year, here are x crucial tips to help you survive Laneway 2016!
1. Collect your tickets in advance
Opt for light and breathable clothing (such as a beautiful sun dress or sheer mesh top pictured above) that you will be comfortable in the entire day. And since you’ll be sitting around quite a fair bit, make sure your bottoms are appropriate for sitting. You don’t want to be suffering in a pair of overly-stiff shorts or constantly pulling down your mini skirt!
(Image credits: www.jakeena.com)
As for shoes, it really depends on you. Covered shoes like a stylish pair of Dr. Martens are recommended if you’re planning to be jumping around in the crowd so as to avoid ugly injuries, but sandals are perfect for those looking to chill on their mats for most of the day.
3. Plan your event wisely
(Image credits: Laneway Singapore website)
With close to 30 fantastic bands performing at 4 different stages spread over the festival area, you and your pals should get together beforehand and figure out who you want to catch. There will definitely be clashes, so some compromises will have to be made!
If you are not familiar with any of the acts (it’s alright, they are pretty obscure) and hence cannot create a plan, simply rotate between the stages or between acts from different countries to get a taste of everything and make your money’s worth. (Note: The 1975, Chvrches and Flume are pretty big acts, whereas Cashew Chemists and Riot !n Magenta hail from Singapore)
4. Portable chargers and phone cases
(Image credits: www.computerworld.com)
A portable charger and cable is a must-bring – ’nuff said. Be it for contacting your friends, posting stuff on social media or googling the upcoming band, you will need your phone and your phone’s battery itself will not suffice. Try to choose one that can fit in your pocket or hand comfortably!
Also, for those who like their phones ‘naked’ (i.e. coverless), you might want to consider putting on a cover (preferably with a bumper) during the event. Just in case a careless festival-goer knocks it out of your hand whilst dancing to the fresh tunes, y’know.
5. Sensible hair options
(Image credits: Tumblr)
As much as we’d all like to look as hippie-chic as her, the unforgiving humidity will not be kind to your free flowing, carefully styled hair. On top of that, no one likes a sticky and sweaty neck! Perhaps start your day with a messy bun or creative braid, and then let down your freshly curled locks for that glamorous sunset look!
(P.S. Bring extra hair ties and pins – chances are you’ll lose some along the way, or your friend will need one)
6. Be prepared for rain or shine
The weather isn’t looking too great on Saturday, so please be wet-weather ready! A poncho will be given to every person upon entry (while stocks last) but we recommend bringing one more just in case.
Also, for the ladies, remember to use waterproof makeup so that you can look good all day long and avoid the hassle of dealing with smudged eyeliner! (But hey, even if that does happen, the gothic look can work too.)
Do note that umbrellas are NOT allowed as they block other people’s views.
On the other hand, there’s bound to be some killer sun too. Remember to slather on ample amounts of sunscreen and SPF lip balm. Check out our article,
(Image credits: www.coolmompicks.com)
Everyone knows that picnic mats are a must for festivals, but they should still be carefully chosen. How many people can your mat fit? (Also, how many people in your group are bringing a mat?) Is your mat waterproof? Is it too thin or too heavy? Is it recognisable from a distance? Do you intend to keep it after Laneway and if so, can it be washed? These are some questions you may like to consider.
8. Stay hygienic
(Image credits: www.redmart.com)
Even though Gardens By The Bay is relatively clean, you don’t want to be eating your burgers and finger food with hands that touched grass, sweaty bodies or possibly mud. Bring along some hand sanitiser that will fit into the smallest of bags, and possibly some wet wipes too for accidental spills or messes.
(Image credits: www.portabletoiletco.com)
..And remember, keep some tissues handy for when you need to use the loo. There might not be any toilet paper left (or at all?) in the portable toilets after everyone starts going to empty their beer-filled bladders!
9. Finally, do not bring these things!
(Image credits: Laneway Singapore)
Leave the selfie sticks and foldable chairs at home, folks. As much as you’d like to bring them, spare a thought for the unfortunate people who will be sitting behind you and will have their view blocked!
(Featured image credits: Today)
