Our Lives Have Changed Since Pokemon Go! 12 Things Every Player Can Relate To!

Pokemon was the first true love for many of us 90’s kids. From collecting decks of Pokemon cards, to playing obsessively on the Game Boy, to catching up with the latest episode of the anime series. Our favourite after school activity was trying to outdo the super annoying Pokemon Go Is Available For Your Country!” email came in last Saturday, you made a sharp U-turn and rescheduled all your plans.

2. You went to Orchard Road to hunt for Pokemon

[caption id="attachment_12105" align="alignnone" width="780"]
Image source: Straits Times Image source: Image source: SGAG Image source: SGAG[/caption]

Of course, your girlfriend matters too but first…Pokemon! But wait, there’s a rare Pokemon at her place? Bonus la!

4. Your dinner looks familiar

[caption id="attachment_12107" align="alignnone" width="917"]Image source: SGAG Image source: SGAG[/caption]

Erm…is that you Mr. Krabby? #sorrynotsorry #guiltynotguilty #foodie

5. Queuing for food is more enjoyable now

“Aiyoh why so long queue one”…and a wild Charmander appears! Swee la!

6. You give funny names to your Pokemon…but that only lasted a day

[caption id="attachment_12109" align="alignnone" width="540"]Image source: Ai Koon Image source: SGAG[/caption]

At one point you just stopped renaming them and just stick to their Pokemon name.

7. You attempted/thought of going Poke-hunting via the MRT

[caption id="attachment_12110" align="alignnone" width="678"]Image source: SGAG Image source: SGAG[/caption]

MRT Y U move so fast? My Abra abracadabra liao! *cries*

8. Screen-shotting wild Pokemon in awkward situations

[caption id="attachment_12114" align="alignnone" width="598"]Image source: SGAG Image source: SGAG[/caption]

EH EH EH…privacy please!!

9. You feel sorry for Magikarp

[caption id="attachment_12115" align="alignnone" width="655"]Image source: comic book Image source: comic book[/caption]

Look at that poor fish! Someone give Magikarp some water plzzzzzz…

10. You went to a park/garden after X years

[caption id="attachment_12116" align="alignnone" width="675"]Image source: Watermelon_Jesus on Reddit Image source: Watermelon_Jesus on Reddit[/caption]

When was the last time you actually went to the neighbourhood park? Probably many many moons ago. If you’re wondering, that’s Jurong’s Chinese Garden by the way!

11. You drag your pet out

[caption id="attachment_12118" align="alignnone" width="806"]Image source: Guff.com Image source: Guff.com[/caption]

“Sorry doggie… you look like you need some exercise”… But actually you’re just too scared to walk alone cause of hungry ghost and all.

12. And you realised you’re not alone

[caption id="attachment_12119" align="alignnone" width="930"]Image source: SGAG Image source: SGAG[/caption]

Pokemon trainers unite to be the very best!! Sorry hungry ghosts, we’re just living out our long forgotten childhood fantasy! (But just in case, read Better Safe Than Sorry? But These 10 Hungry Ghost Superstitions Are Unbelievable!)

We know the idea of catching ’em all is fantastic, but please be mindful of your surroundings! Being too engrossed in the game is inviting danger and Medium

Also, read Play Till Late! 5 Hangout Spots So You Can Munch & Play The Night Away!

Singaporeans Are Going Crazy Over Pokemon Go! Here’s The Evidence!

When baked cheese tart hit our shores, we thought the queue was crazy. But when Pokemon Go landed in Singapore, Singaporeans take crazy to a whole new level!

Day or night, shine or very hot sunshine, Singaporeans are all out Poke-hunting and we have the evidence!

1. Hougang is gungho…real gungho

[caption id="attachment_12166" align="alignnone" width="780"]Image source: @WEIXIANGLIMSG Image source: @WEIXIANGLIMSG[/caption]

When word about “rare” Pokemon such as Gyarados was spotted at Block 401 of Hougang Avenue, the precinct gained notorious reputation overnight.

2. ….doesn’t matter day or night

[caption id="attachment_12167" align="alignnone" width="593"]Image source: @plince83 Image source: @plince83[/caption]

Hot sun? What hot sun? Nothing is hotter than a Charizard that I’m about to catch!

3.  Punggol Park is not spared either

[caption id="attachment_12168" align="alignnone" width="690"]Image source: stomp Image source: Image source: Lim Zhuang Chen Image source: Lim Zhuang Chen[/caption]

It’s normal to see a park with people in sports attire but in flip flops and their smartphone on their hands? That’s the Pokemon effect!

5. Yishun Park at night

[caption id="attachment_12173" align="alignnone" width="850"]Image source: @amiehetfield Image source: @amiehetfield[/caption]

Dear, we’re not going to the movies tonight. Instead, let’s go catch some Pokemon! Pokemon Go – redefining date nights.

6. Orchard Road

[caption id="attachment_12170" align="alignnone" width="1179"]A Pokemon Go walk was held recently at Orchard Road during National Day Image source: Razergo[/caption]

How to get a bunch of youths going on a public holiday? Organise a Poke-crawl on National Day!

[caption id="attachment_12171" align="alignnone" width="690"]Image source: Razor Image source: Razor[/caption]

The event started at 1pm (read: hottest time of the day) and yet our Singaporean youths braved the heat to be the very best! In fact, the turnout was so massive that Poke-crawlers were chased away by the security staff of ION!

7. Orchard At Night

[caption id="attachment_12172" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: Pokemon GO SG Hunt Image source: Pokemon GO SG Hunt[/caption]

Just look at how everyone sits together so uniformly! It sure looks like they’re about to start a choir performance! Actually, they’re sticking as close as possible to leech from each other’s lure.

8. Chinese Garden, Jurong

[caption id="attachment_12174" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: PokemonGO SG Image source: PokemonGO SG[/caption]

It may look less crowded in this picture but the Chinese Garden is a hot spot for Pokemon GO players as it houses 20 rest stops and 3 gyms. It’s very spacious so it’s great for people who don’t like crowd.

9. Vivo City

[caption id="attachment_12175" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: Pokemon GO SG Image source: Pokemon GO SG[/caption]

We Singaporeans are all about efficiency. If we can get our shopping done at Vivo and catch some Pokemon too, why not?

10. Bishan Park

[caption id="attachment_12176" align="alignnone" width="595"]Image source: @euniceleong Image source: @euniceleong[/caption]

Remember how people used to say that Bishan Park is really scary at night? This was taken at 1:30am and the park is still lively and buzzing!

11. East Coast Park

[caption id="attachment_12177" align="alignnone" width="595"]Image source: @camemberu Image source: @camemberu[/caption]

East Coast Park is home to one of Singapore’s most haunting ghost stories. It’s one of those places people try to avoid going to at night. But ever since the launch of Pokemon Go, we’ve seen some really brave Singaporeans. And it’s the Hungry Ghost Festival now…

Do you have evidence of the Pokemon Go craze in your neighbourhood? Drop us a comment and share with us!

Header image source: Straits Times

Also, read Pokemon Go Guide: How To Catch Pikachu & Where To Catch ‘Em All

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

[caption id="attachment_12083" align="alignnone" width="780"]screen-shot-2016-07-14-at-12-18-27-pm-11 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

[caption id="attachment_12077" align="alignnone" width="1088"]
Image source: Phandroid Image source: Image source: Image source: Phandroid 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

[caption id="attachment_12086" align="alignnone" width="700"]Image source: K&G Image source: Image souce: Tipsandtricksfor 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

[caption id="attachment_12229" align="aligncenter" width="750"]once-you-have-enough-candy-click-evolve.jpg Credit: Image source: Helloあsia Singapore 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

[caption id="attachment_12091" align="alignnone" width="675"]Image source: @kuekj 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!

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3. Botanic Garden

[caption id="attachment_12093" align="alignnone" width="1670"]
Image source: Your Singapore 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

[caption id="attachment_12094" align="alignnone" width="780"]Image source: Tiffany Goh for The Sunday Times Image source: Image source: rwsentosablog Image source: !

6. Chinese Garden

[caption id="attachment_12097" align="alignnone" width="870"]Image source: Sugar and Space Image source: maxres

Also read: Better Safe Than Sorry? But These 10 Hungry Ghost Superstitions Are Unbelievable!

7 Best Happy Hour Deals In Town That Will Not Burn A Hole In Your Pocket

Rated one of the most expensive cities in Asia for alcohol, it would seem logical for alcoholics to be seen at neighbourhood coffeeshops instead of exorbitant bars and pubs that will rip you off your wallet. Well, drinking in Singapore doesn’t necessarily have to cost you a bomb. With awesome happy hour promotions, booze prices are slashed and your wallet gets a little breather.

Here’s our take on great happy hours places that aren’t hidden at the far ends of Singapore. With pubs, bars and restaurants located all at the central area – Orchard Road and Bras Basah, you’ll never have to travel far to get your cheap booze.

1. Loof

[caption id="attachment_8794" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Loof Bar Image credit: Loof[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8795" align="alignnone" width="1024"]loof bar Image credit: Loof[/caption]

At Loof, the early bird catches the best prices. Awarded Singapore’s best rooftop bar, it is one of the most dope spots in downtown CBD. Bask in its urban garden and take in the best view of Raffles Hotel, or soak up beats from resident DJs and theme party nights. From 5pm to 8pm on weekdays, all drink prices will match according to the time. Housepours, wines and beer are $5 from 5-6pm, $6 from 6-7pm and $7 from 7-8pm. Arrive early for cheaper drinks! With such prices, imagine the number of glasses we’d be ordering.

kpo cafe bar Image credit: sgasiacity[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8811" align="alignnone" width="1024"]kpo bar Image credit: wearespaces[/caption]

After a dramatic makeover of the iconic Killiney Post Office, KPO opened its door in 2010. It now accommodates up to 500 people with both indoor and outdoor seating available. This bar has become a staple on Orchard Road.

Happy hours happen daily till 8pm and day-time alcoholics will rejoice over housepour wines and spirits that are available from $10 to $11 and beers on tap from $12. For the ladies, head down on Wednesday nights for martinis at $8. Enjoy the tunes that their DJs spin or listen to hip-swaying music as you kick back and relax over a cold pint of beer or wine. Chill the night away while you enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life.

icecoldbeer Emerald Hill outlet, Image credit: icecoldbeer[/caption]

Opened in 1994, Ice-Cold Beer is housed in a restored Peranakan shop house and offers customers icy-cold beers from unique ice tanks. Beers are served in beer glasses chilled to -3 degrees Celsius to keep them icy-cold for a long time. Choose from over 60 types of bottled and draught beers from local to international beers.

During happy hour, get a pint of Hoegaarden at $11 nett or a jug of Stella Artois at $23. Located just off the busy Orchard Road, Ice-Cold Beer allows its customers to relax in its quiet and comforting space. They also have another outlet at SMU where you can get a 2 bottle deal of Kronenberg Blanc for $15. Reasonably priced cold beers served by friendly staff in a relax casual environment – sounds good!


Happy Hour: Daily 11am – 9pm
Address: 50 Stamford Rd #01-01, Singapore 178899
Contact: 65 6837 3585
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-12am, Fri, Sat, Eve of PH 5pm-3am 11am-1am, Sun/PH 4pm-12am

4. Tanuki Raw

[caption id="attachment_8798" align="alignnone" width="1000"]Tanuki Bar Orchard Central Image credit: Tanuki Bar[/caption]

Known for its insane happiest hours where freshly shucked oysters go for $2, martinis and cocktails for $10, a pint of beer of $12, this place is the most value-for-money food and drink spot along Orchard Road. Enjoy happy hours from 5pm-8pm daily after a hard day’s work. Choose between enjoying live music on their alfresco balcony overlooking Orchard Road, or on their patio in the beautiful Bras Basah civic district.

Need we say more? With happy hours including fresh oysters and a good cold cocktail or beer, this is the place to be hanging out comfortably after a long day without burning a hole in your pocket. What’s more, enjoy these prices without any extra service tax or GST. Do note that Tanuki Raw does not take reservations so remember to arrive early to avoid long queues.

Tanuki Raw (Orchard Central) 
Happy Hour: 5pm-8pm
Address: 181 Orchard Road, #04-01 Orchard Central, Singapore 238896
Contact: 65 6636 5949
Opening Hours: Daily 1130am-1030pm

Tanuki Raw (Kapok)
Happy Hour: 5pm-8pm
Address: 111 Middle Road, #01-05 National Design Centre, Singapore 188969
Opening Hours: Daily 10am-10pm

5. Five Izakaya

[caption id="attachment_8799" align="alignnone" width="640"]fiv-bar cuppage Image credit: paowmagazine[/caption]

Five Izakaya is Singapore’s first Tachinomi Izakaya inspired bar. Modelled after the 300-Yen bars, the “five” in their name refers to the price of the drinks. Yes, you can get Asahi, Shochu, Choya, and basically every drink here at $5! It’s not a gimmick. It’s happy hour here everyday, at anytime! Even the snacks here are $5. Unbelievable.

Five Izakaya has 4 outlets. One of them is just off Orchard Road at Cuppage Terrace. Enjoy live music and cosy ambience with drinks and food at affordable prices. With such cheap prices in town, this is the perfect place to catch up and chill out after a long day at work. Getting a seat here might prove challenging. Hence, visit early or make a reservation at least 1 day in advance! Do check out their other 3 outlets and opening hours
Happy Hour: Everyday, anytime
Address: 25 Cuppage Road, Cuppage Terrace, Singapore 229454
Contact: 65 6733 8097
Opening Hours: 5pm – 12am Daily

6. No. 5 Emerald Hill

[caption id="attachment_8802" align="alignnone" width="1024"]5 emerald hill Image credit: moneysmart[/caption]

Located conveniently a street away from Orchard Road, this Peranakan-style bar has a number of extremely cost saving drink options. It has the longest happy hour session in town with deals from 12pm to 9pm followed by Martini specials from 9pm all the way to 1am. With two Martinis for $16, this bar has won our hearts for late night drinks in the city. Their wide range of cocktails including Chilli Vodka and No. 5 Cocktail are not to be missed. The drinks pair delightfully with their famous Prawn Paste Chicken Wings and selection of Pizzas.

Their relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere has remained unchanged over the years; and that has drawn us back every time.

Bar Canary Image credit: Park Hotel Group[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8807" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Bar Canary Image credit: Park Hotel Group[/caption]

Located strategically in the heart of Orchard, Bar Canary is an open-air bar perched on the fourth level of 5-star Grand Park Orchard Hotel. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Bar Canary provides an idyllic oasis for shoppers and busy working adults to relax. With mesmerising fairy lights illuminating its alfresco bar, its atmosphere is spot on and it is one of Orchard Road’s hidden gem.

Beat the clock and jumpstart your happy hour at the Bar Canary with their special deals available from 6pm to 9pm. Round up your friends and colleagues and choose from a bucket of 8 bottled beers or a set of house red or white wine and your choice of 4 signature cocktails from $60++ at 6pm, $70++ at 7pm, $80++ at 8pm and $90++ at 9pm. At Bar Canary the early bird gets the cheap booze! Cocktail fans might want to try their signature Coco Chanel. Coconut liqueur shaken with gold rum, fresh coconut water, lime juice, fresh mint and wheatgrass which leaves a refreshing taste.

For some mid-week fun, on Wednesdays from 7pm to 9pm, girls get free flow champagne, housepour wines, spirits and signature cocktails at $50++ while men pay $100++. Head down to Bar Canary and enjoy a good catch up session with your friends and colleagues!

Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

30 Stunning Photos That Will Make You See Singapore In A Different Way

How would you describe Singapore in one word? I used to say it’s tiny — a response I’m sure is also often uttered by most Singaporeans. But now that I’ve gone through these snapshots, I feel like it’s time to come up with a new adjective.

1. The sand stockpile across Bedok Reservoir

[caption id="attachment_3024" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Shan Min @ Treasure Everyday[/caption]

The stockpile of sand is meant for future projects. But every now and then, whenever I drop by Bedok Reservoir, all I can picture is the Sahara Desert.

A rather surreal and unusual sight, I must say, considering Singapore is known for its skyscrapers and city life.

2. Haw Par Villa

[caption id="attachment_3205" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Expat Living[/caption]

If I were to pick the worst place to bring a yellow-bellied kid to, Haw Par Villa would be the top of my list. Its impressions of Chinese folklore’s 10 Courts of Hell is crazy frightening.

I bet tourists will do a Kevin-Bacon-Footloose-jump-back move when they see this gruesome scene — especially after they’ve basked in the glorious view from the Singapore Flyer.

3. The migrant workers’ dormitory

[caption id="attachment_3009" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Today Online[/caption]

Many migrant workers come to Singapore to pursue job opportunities to support their family back home. Besides dealing with the overcrowded and messy dormitories, they also have to endure the social stigma of being a foreign worker.

4. Sundays at Orchard Road

[caption id="attachment_3010" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: The Straits Times[/caption]

Most of our foreign domestic workers’ rest day falls on Sunday. If you’re ever around Orchard Road — specifically, Lucky Plaza — on Sunday, take a minute to soak up the scene. Odds are, the place will be packed with Filipinos. The Little Manila of Singapore is the favourite hot spot of the community.

5. Senoko Fishery Port

[caption id="attachment_3011" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: UnTourist Singapore[/caption]

When I came across this picture of Senoko Fishery Port, I went, “Those still exist?” Some of us may have had our feet splashed at at the wet market, but how many of us have actually set foot into a fishery port? Singapore may be small, but there are still a couple of gems out there that we may not have discovered.

6. New public housing

[caption id="attachment_3013" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Urban Architecture Now[/caption]

Apparently, HDB flats can look posh too. One writer at CNN even likened it to a luxury hotel. I can understand that, because… well, take a look at that majestic sight.

7. Rochor Centre

[caption id="attachment_3014" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: CNN[/caption]

The iconic building is going to be demolished soon to allow room for the construction of the North-South Expressway. Let this sink in.

8. The homeless

[caption id="attachment_3015" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Youth.SG[/caption]

Just because we don’t see them doesn’t mean they don’t exist. According to one writer at Youth.sg, some of the homeless are estranged from their families, kicked out by relatives or left home of their own accord.

9. The haze

[caption id="attachment_3016" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Channel News Asia[/caption]

Singaporeans are not hardwired to withstand the haze. Scratch that, no one is. Hopefully, the brief experience has taught us not to take clean air for granted.

10. The hailstorm

[caption id="attachment_3017" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: The Straits Times[/caption]

According to the World Risk index, we’re currently at the 15th spot. Which means that there’s a slight chance of a natural disaster happening in Singapore. Knock on wood, but hey, you never know, right? Life is unpredictable.

11. Richard Koh’s photos

[caption id="attachment_3018" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Richard W J Koh[/caption]

Richard W J Koh is an award-winning photographer from Singapore. Take a look at this phenomenal picture of our HDB flats taken from an aircraft. Who knew you can turn an ordinary scene into something so breathtaking? It’s all about the angle.

12. Traditional Peranakan shop houses

[caption id="attachment_3019" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Girl Tweets World[/caption]

And speaking of angles. If it weren’t for the heading, you’d probably think this is a picture of a quaint town in an exotic country. The Peranakan shop houses’ timeless pastel colours reflect a life of simplicity.

13. Street art

[caption id="attachment_3208" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Ernest Zacharevic[/caption]

Mural paintings are a common sight in Singapore. Street art, on the other hand, are much rarer. Hmm, could this be one of the reasons why we were once named as the second coolest country in the world?

14. Thaipusam

[caption id="attachment_3021" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: aahanasujanani[/caption]

Singapore may be a multiracial country, but I bet there are many things that we still haven’t heard of. Thaipusam is a Hindu thanksgiving festival celebrated in honour of Lord Subramaniam. The spikes you see in the picture? They can weigh up to 40kg. Mindblown.

15. Keong Saik Neighbourhood

[caption id="attachment_3023" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Beastie Boys The Gala Event YouTube screengrab[/caption]

All-round cool band Beastie Boys shot their pulp noir music video, The Gala Event, at Keong Saik Neighbourhood back in 2007. And to think I was ecstatic when Tom Waits sang about Singapore.

16. Kampung Lorong Buangkok

[caption id="attachment_3071" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Wikipedia[/caption]

We’ve got trouble. There are a few homes in Kampung Lorong Buangkok that have undergone upgrades. Does this mean our last surviving village is disappearing? Only time will tell.

17. Singapore’s massive flood

[caption id="attachment_3155" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Asia One[/caption]

Singapore usually doesn’t flood, so when one strikes, you know it’s bad. This massive flood has caused a lot of headache and hindrance to the public. All I can say is, I’m glad those PE lessons and NAPFA tests haven’t gone to waste.

18. This HDB block

[caption id="attachment_3073" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: SG Heart Map[/caption]

Here’s another gorgeous picture of our HDB flats. This shot was part of the HomeScapes Photography exhibition that was launched back on June 2015. Who says old can’t be beautiful?

19. Police uniform

[caption id="attachment_3074" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Foundily[/caption]

The local traffic policewoman uniform used to be white during the late 1960s!

20. Samsui women

[caption id="attachment_3151" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: The Lion Raw[/caption]

All of the remaining Samsui women are in their twilight years. The sentiment alone goes to show that our country has come a long way.

21. Bryan van der Beek’s photos

[caption id="attachment_3084" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Bryan van der Beek[/caption]

Photographer Bryan van der Beek captures a location at different times within the same photo. Original and fascinating, his photos make you look at the little red dot in a strikingly different way.

22. Murad Osmann

[caption id="attachment_3091" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Murad Osmann[/caption]

Murad Osmann is known for his Instagram photography series “Follow Me To”. Kampong Glam, a place we’re familiar with ever since we went there for our primary school excursion trip, looks unique and evocative in this shot.

23. Grocery shopping

[caption id="attachment_3093" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Singas.co.uk[/caption]

Ah, gone are the days when all homemakers would buy their groceries while walking down the street. Now many of us turn to grocery delivery service and online concierge.

24. Tanglin Hill Brunei Hostel

[caption id="attachment_3094" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Anymap[/caption]

There’s an unequal sign between the phrase ‘hauntingly beautiful’ and Singapore. At least, that was what I originally thought. Looking at this photo, I couldn’t be more wrong.

25. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

[caption id="attachment_3210" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Make My Trip[/caption]

This snapshot looks straight out of a Studio Ghibli movie. I’ve been to the area countless of times, but this picture never fails to make me do a double take.

26. Little Guilin

[caption id="attachment_3152" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: poskod.sg[/caption]

If Mediacorp were to film another period drama series, this is the place they would go to. The sight’s a breath of fresh air, especially when you’re the type that gets easily caught up in the urban lifestyle.

27. Lazarus Island

[caption id="attachment_3102" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Marine Bookings[/caption]

Lazarus Island sounds like something you would hear in a Jurassic Park movie. During an interview with The Straits Times, 60-year-old Mr Leow said that it’s unnecessary to travel to another continent to take beautiful shots when we already have a stunning beach. I rest my case.

28. Japanese Cemetery Park

[caption id="attachment_3153" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Tourist In My Own Land[/caption]

Located in Hougang, it is Southeast Asia’s largest Japanese cemetery at 29,359 square metres. With over 500 tombstones, some of the notable graves include secret agent Tani Yutaka and Terauchi Hisaichi, the son of the 18th Japanese Prime Minister Terauchi Masatake.

29. Portsdown Road water tank

[caption id="attachment_3104" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: lamborambo21[/caption]

Maybe it’s because of the HDB water tank incident, but this photo of the gigantic container gives me the heebies-jeebies. Let’s not beat around the bush, this is not the type of idiom you’d normally associate with Singapore.

30. 2013 Little India riot

[caption id="attachment_3022" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image credit: Mark Cheong[/caption]

When news of the riot broke, we all thought it was a prank. When we took a closer look at the scene and realised it was real, we felt like we just got punched in the face with a knuckle duster.

All in all, Singapore is a culturally diverse country in a little red dot! Let us know how these photos have changed the way you view Singapore!

10 Awesome Free Things To Do In Singapore This Christmas Season!

It’s the time of the year again when we celebrate the jolly festive season of Christmas! If you’re thinking of saving money while celebrating the occasion, here’s our list of 10 awesome free things to do in Singapore this Christmas!

1) Shower in the snow!

[caption id="attachment_39" align="alignnone" width="700"] Image Credit: Tanglin Mall[/caption]

If you don’t already know, the snow shower outside Tanglin Mall has been a yearly festive tradition to embrace Christmas together. In a tropical country that does not snow at all, this is an absolute favourite for Singaporeans especially the kids!

What better way is there to celebrate Christmas than to soak up in the snow with your family and friends? From 14 November 2015 to 03 January 2016, enjoy the free snow shower at the following timings outside Tanglin Mall.

Address: 163 Tanglin Road

Weekdays:
Avalanche: 7:30pm to 7:45pm
Snow: 7:45pm to 8:00pm

Weekends/Public Holidays
Avalanche: 7:30pm to 7:45pm and 8.30pm to 8:45pm
Snow:  7:45pm to 8.00pm and 8:45pm to 9.00pm

While the snow is artificial, do note that for their avalanche it comes in foam so you might want to bring a fresh set of outfit to change into after basking in the fun!

Additionally, over at City Square Mall, there is also an hour of snowy playtime from 8pm to 9pm daily from 20 November 2015 to 3 January 2016, at City Green Outdoor Park.

2) Immerse yourself in our local creative culture

During this season of gifting, have you wondered about the stories behind retail merchandises? Another way to celebrate this Christmas is to bask in the vibrancy of Singapore’s retail scene.

If you’re into fashion, product and industrial design, don’t forget to check out the Keepers Playtime showcase at National Design Centre, which features a diverse range of retail craftsmanship with inspirational stories by 30 designer artisans. This holiday, besides the creative installations, you can expect workshops and talks as well from 26 November 2015 to 10 January 2016 and learn more about contemporary retail art designs.

Keepers Playtime At National Design Centre

Start Date: 26 Nov 2015
End Date: 10 Jan 2016

Start Time: 11:00 AM
End Time: 07:00 PM

Venue: Design Gallery 1 & Design Advisory, National Design Centre

3) Delight in jolly performances

[caption id="attachment_42" align="alignnone" width="634"] Image Credit: CCIS[/caption]

Enjoy a free slew of Christmassy songs, dances and skit stages that will hype up the merry spirit in you. Brought to you by the charity group, Celebrate Christmas In Singapore (CCIS), there will be different music renditions put up by both local and foreign performers all night from 6pm to 10pm, in front of ION Orchard, Wisma Atria and the L3 amphitheatre at Vivocity from 18th December to 24th December 2015.

Furthermore, there are interactive mosaic displays for the public to fill in with colors, and fancy photo-taking backdrops at Orchard Road from 12.00pm to 10pm and Vivocity, from 5pm to 10pm, where they will also be holding many fun activities and games for you all night!

Date: 18th December to 24th December
Time: 6pm to 10pm
Venue: ION Orchard, Wisma Atria, Level 3 Amphitheatre Vivocity

4) Join the spirit of giving

[caption id="attachment_43" align="alignnone" width="453"] Image Credit: Salvation Army[/caption]

As the paradox of generosity goes, the more you give, the more you receive. In this season of giving, you can spread the joy and love of Christmas by simply volunteering two hours of your time as a bell-ringer.

The Salvation Army presents Christmas Kettling, a fundraising event from 21 November to 24 December 2015. Spot the kettle pots at various locations namely Anchor Point, Far East Plaza, ION Orchard, Junction 8, Lucky Plaza, Raffles City, Tampines Mall, Tangs Orchard and Toa Payoh HDB Hub. Either sign up here at Image Credit: Singapore Really Really Free Market[/caption]

Besides donating, if you’re a shopaholic but you wish to save some money this month, the Singapore Really Really Free Market is an absolute must-go! There will be a good range of both pre-loved and new items like books and apparels besides many other knick-knacks that you may not find anywhere else. This month, the market will be held at Hong Lim Park on 20 December starting from 1pm.

6) Sparkle in the magic world

(image source: Orchardroad.org)

Pamper your sight with a kaleidoscopic display of dazzling décor as you stroll along Orchard Road this December. The eye-catching array of glistening ornaments this year is conceptualized by Singapore singer-composer Dick Lee and designer Yang De Rong in hopes to present a magical world just for you. Orchard Road will also be hosting festive performances such as Christmas Caroling from 18 Dec to 23 Dec. More details as follows:

[caption id="attachment_47" align="alignnone" width="941"] Source: ChannelNewsAsia[/caption]

7) Talk a walk in nature

If you don’t quite fancy the Christmas décor glitz, away from the hustle and bustle of town, nature lovers especially will be delighted to discover the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore – the Southern Ridges – that offers a panoramic view of our city. The 10-km long trail along Henderson Road is connected by greenly hilltops and scenic parks and gardens. When the sun sets, the Southern Ridges will awe you with a breath-taking landscape of Singapore.

8) Join a concert

(i)

As Christmas approaches, there are church ministries that are more than willing to welcome the public to join them on their thrill of hope and rejoice as they celebrate the season together. At Christ Methodist Church, the two-night concert is said to include award-winning singer-songwriter Aubrey Suwito, former Malaysian Idol vocal coach Juwita Suwito, local R&B talent Sarah Cheng De Winne, and their talented band from Malaysia. On 16 and 17 December at 8pm, join their Christmas concert and meet new people, and cheer the night away!

(ii)

Not free on those dates? Fear not, coming to you on the 19th December is the final instalment of SG50 Concert Series in the Park at Gardens by the Bay. From 6pm onwards, you can expect to meet local artistes like The Sam Willows, Tosh and Weiliang, Tay Kewei and more at the open fields of the Meadow.

(iii)

Or if you’ll be around Esplanade on 20 December, party with Mus’Art Youth Wind Orchestra with hit tracks by Maroon 5, Donna Summer and more – all with a symphonic twist! Admission is free and on a first-come-first-serve basis. Time? 3pm at the concert hall.

8) A Friday Night with the Sky


(image source: Image Credit: Time Out Singapore[/caption]

If you’re hoping to watch the fireworks before New Year, you’ll have to visit the Singapore River this December! Besides the carnival decors, markets and carollers amongst other Christmas festive activities, there will be fireworks display on 12 and 26 Dec at 9pm. The Christmas celebrations will be held along Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay. Another bonus visual delight is some 8-metre tall LED trees by the river that are up only this Christmas season.

10) Gardens By The Bay

[caption id="attachment_54" align="alignnone" width="647"] Image Credit: Christmas Wonderland[/caption]

Last but not the least on our list is Gardens by the Bay, for beautifully sculptured wonderland sightings all set to fascinate you and your loved ones with enchanting towers. Catch the huge display of dazzling light ornaments any night from now until 3rd January 2016.

Did we miss out anything? Let us know in the comments below where you plan to spend your Christmas this year!