8 Best Places In Singapore To Stargaze And Catch The Lunar Eclipse

lunar eclipse

If you didn’t already know, something big is happening this Saturday, 28 July 2018.

There’s going to be another LUNAR ECLIPSE happening! And not just any typical lunar eclipse.

Set to last 1 hour and 43 minutes from 3.30am to 5.13am Singapore time, this will be the longest lunar eclipse of the century and will be visible from Asia, Australia, Africa and Europe.

However, with Singapore being a well-developed city, our light pollution is intense, so it might be hard to find a good spot to get a good look and photo.

So here are some places that might be dark enough to enjoy the lunar eclipse (a.k.a blood moon) in all its scarlet glory.

1. Seletar Rocket Tower

[caption id="attachment_36095" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: Flickr Rain Stormz[/caption]

Located in Upper Seletar Reservoir, the Seletar Rocket Tower makes for a great spot to catch the lunar eclipse.

[caption id="attachment_36096" align="aligncenter" width="530"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: NParks[/caption]

The place is mostly secluded and it has 3 carparks a short walk away so it’s still accessible by car. Other than the lunar eclipse, it’s also a great place to catch amazing sunsets and stargaze too.

Address: Along Mandai Road Track 7, off Mandai Road

2. Changi Boardwalk

Changi Boardwalk is one of the more popular spots for stargazing and other astronomy-related pursuits.

[caption id="attachment_1027" align="aligncenter" width="700"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: lunar eclipse Image Credit: NParks[/caption]

Stargazing parties are still being organised and held at Changi Beach.

It’ll be best to bring a party of people if you intend to go there for lunar eclipse because Changi Beach is infamous for being “dirty”, if you know what I mean.

4. Lim Chu Kang Cemetery

Another spot with great views of the moon and stars and a spook factor.

[caption id="attachment_36104" align="aligncenter" width="779"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: lunar eclipse Image Credit: TripAdvisor[/caption]

However, Labrador Nature Reserve comes with its own spooky tales so tread cautiously.

Labrador Park Nature Reserve
Address: Labrador Villa Road, Singapore 119187

6. Lorong Halus Bridge

The Lorong Halus bridge stretches over the Punggol Waterway and offers amazing views of the sunrise. It’s also great for stargazing and moon-viewing.

[caption id="attachment_36100" align="aligncenter" width="1024"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: Flickr Tze Ru Pang[/caption]

If you’re in the far north-east, this is your best spot for all your astronomy pursuits.

7. Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the least light-polluted places in Singapore, along with the Labrador Park Nature Reserve.

[caption id="attachment_36105" align="aligncenter" width="500"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: Flickr pfong[/caption]

Open fields for stargazing and moon-viewing are aplenty here. These include the spaces near the Eco Lake, Symphony Lake, Swan Lake, and the Bandstand.

Singapore Botanic Gardens
Eco Lake:
Enter via Bukit Timah Gate
Symphony Lake: Enter via Nassim Gate
Swan Lake and Bandstand: Enter via Tanglin Gate
Opening Hours: Daily: 5am – 12am
Admission: Free

8. Springleaf Nature Park

The Springleaf Nature Park is one of the top 3 least light-polluted spots in Singapore.

[caption id="attachment_36106" align="aligncenter" width="960"]lunar eclipse Image Credit: NParks[/caption]

It is popular among astronomy groups that organise stargazing parties.

If you’re looking for a quiet spot to observe the lunar eclipse in the North, this is it.

Springleaf Nature Park
Address: 1230 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 787129

So there you have it, 8 of the best places in Singapore to stargaze or observe the lunar eclipse. Remember to pack your cameras and telescopes!

Also read The Longest Lunar Eclipse Of The Century Is Almost 2 Hours – Witness It In S’pore On July 28

(Header Image Source:

Picnic In The Park? Too #basic. How About Concert In The Park This March?

The image of a family having a picnic in the park on a sunny weekend is always pleasant and wholesome.

Good food, great company, lively environment, surrounded by nature and all its wonders – it’s almost perfect. Almost.

What if we took picnics to another level by throwing in a concert for as well?

[caption id="attachment_33340" align="aligncenter" width="2200"] Image Credit: National Arts Council Singapore[/caption]

Now how’s that for a picnic?

That’s right, the NAC-ExxonMobil Concert In The Park is back again on 11th March 2018 at the Singapore Botanic Gardens!

Entertainment For The Whole Family

This year’s concert will see local musicians Charlie Lim and M1LDL1FE take the stage.

You might have seen them perform on The Great Singapore Replay, which featured 10 emerging artists and 10 established artists working together to reimagine Singapore’s greatest hits of the yesteryears.

While Charlie Lim’s music is a little more acoustic and mellow, it’s heartfelt and emotional and it’s perfect for setting the picnic mood.

[caption id="attachment_33337" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: Charlie Lim Facebook[/caption]

If you prefer more upbeat music, get up and groove to the indie pop tunes of M1LDL1FE.

[caption id="attachment_33065" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Image Credit: M1LDL1FE Facebook[/caption]

That’s not all. To ensure your little ones get a piece of the action too, there will be fringe activities by Bubblelogist (yes that’s a thing) CJ Bubble, as well as a pre-show dance performance by Legacy Dance Co.

One last thing, there will be fans (limited to 250 pieces) and picnic mats (limited to 50 pieces) up for grabs, so get your friends and family and come early and pick a good spot!

Admission is free!

See you at the NAC-ExxonMobil Concert In The Park!

NAC-ExxonMobil Concert In The Park 2018
Venue:
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage
Date: 11 Mar 2018
Time: 4.30pm – 6.30pm
Website

Also read Gather Your Amigos For Affordable Halal Spanish Tapas At The Great Mischief

(Header Image Source: National Arts Council Singapore)

The Most Romantic Dinner + Night Stroll Places In Singapore For A Lovey-Dovey V Day

The most romantic day of the year is upon us! Whether you’re looking to seal the deal, pop the question, or simply treat your special someone to an unforgettable day or night out, where you do it is often as important as the act itself.

Luckily for you, we’ve rounded up 8 of the most romantic locations you can find in Singapore, from the loveliest dinner environments to the most peaceful spots for a post dinner walk.

It’ll be a memorable Valentine’s Day to be etched in your hearts forever.

Dinner

1. The Disgruntled Brasserie

Twin to The Disgruntled Chef, The Disgruntled Brasserie boasts the original restaurant’s cosy plantation theme.

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Dark greens, hand crafted mirrors, and leather seats come together for a intimate setting.  Its relaxed take on the usual stuffy fine dining allows for a night of open conversation.

[caption id="attachment_22261" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Image credit: Epicure Magazine[/caption]

Specially for this Valentine’s Day, The Disgruntled Brasserie is introducing a 6-course Valentine’s Day Set Menu for two–perfect for indulging your loved one this season.

The Disgruntled Brasserie’s Valentine’s Day Set
Venue: The Disgruntled Brasserie’s, 28 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069708​
Dates: 10 – 13 February 2017 (Both a la carte and set menu available) & 14 February 2017 (Only set menu available at 2 seatings: 5.30pm to 8.15pm OR 8.30pm to 10.30pm)
Price: $88++ per person (inclusive of a glass of Laurent Perrier Brut NV)
Reservations: (65) 6808​ ​2184
2. Tippling Club

Embark on a romantic journey specially made for two tastebuds, with Tippling Club’s eight splendid courses.

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Set to impress, the Valentine’s Day menu celebrates the bar’s highlights such as Razor Clams steeped in a purple garlic soup and a Foie Gras layered in textures of peach and gold.

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Each dish is adorned with exquisite ingredients sourced exclusively to pamper your loved one.

What better place worthier of your love than this world class bar? After all, Tippling Club’s award winning cuisines and cocktails pair almost as well as you two do.

Tippling Club’s Valentine’s Day Dinner
Venue: Tippling Club, 38 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088461
Date: Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Price: S$340++ per pax for an eight-course dinner
Reservations: (65) 6475 2217
Enquiries:
[email protected]
3. Open Door Policy

Open Door Policy puts the ‘heart’ in ‘hearty’ this Valentine’s Day, with a fanfare of cheekily named gluten and dairy free selections, on it’s special menu for the season!

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With dishes like Be Yours First (a medley of warm beetroot, scallop and black oyster), Touch My Sweet ‘Pot (a tummy warming sweet potato soup served with home planted greens), it’s only certain that you’ll win the heart of your one and only more than ever.

[caption id="attachment_22255" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Image credit: Chow and the City[/caption]

Cool and welcoming, the mix of brick and wood panelling in Open Door Policy gives it a down to earth feel–perfect for honest heart to heart conversation.

Open Door Policy Valentine’s Menu
Venue: Open Door Policy, 19 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168650
Date: Monday, 13 February 2017 and Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Price: S$80++ per pax; S$148++ per couple
Reservations: (65) 6221 9307
Enquiries: [email protected]
Facebook

4. Open Farm Community

Paint the perfect backdrop for a romantic night out with lush greenery under a blanket of stars at Open Farm Community.

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The chief chefs forage its edible garden for a farm fresh selection of herbs, fruits and vegetables that make their way into delectable dishes. It’s all both nourishing, and a visual feast.

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Whet your appetite with the smoked citrus cured salmon carpaccio or heirloom tomato salad for the appetizer. Delve into the sumptuous mains of vanilla parsnip risotto or roasted spanish mackerel.

Lastly, let the dessert, black forest with cherry sorbet, be the cherry on top of your perfect date night.

Open Farm Community Valentine’s Day Dinner
Venue: Open Farm Community, 130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819
Date: Tuesday, 14 February 2017
Price: S$80++ per pax for a three-course dinner; S$128++ per pax for a five-course tasting menu
Reservations: (65) 6471 0306
Enquiries: [email protected]
Post-Dinner Walk

1. Singapore Botanic Gardens

Travel back in time and go on a romantic stroll at the Botanic Gardens, which could very well be Singapore’s first ever date spot.

The various nooks and crannies of the park, shrouded by leafy greens and splashes of pretty flowers, offer the perfect backdrop for a secluded V-day rendezvous.

[caption id="attachment_22259" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image credit: Chris Chang Photography[/caption]

Some of the most picturesque spots include the Swan Lake Gazebo, the majestic Burmese Banyan tree, and the Bandstand.

[caption id="attachment_22810" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image credit: Chris Chang Photography[/caption]

The various food spots in the Gardens–Food For Thought, Blue Bali, Casa Verde and more–are also offering special V-day treats.

Newly-opened The Garage, is also offering a Valentine’s Day Picnic Basket for those looking for a laid-back, nature-filled date.

Singapore Botanic Gardens
Venue: Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Road Singapore 259569
Open: 5am to 12am daily
Tel: 6465 0196
Email: [email protected]
Website

2. Henderson Waves

Take your date to new heights with a trek along along the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, the Henderson Waves.

The glowing lights and cosy little alcoves make this gorgeous bridge, cutting across Telok Blangah Hill Park and Mt Faber Park, a pretty sweet spot for a stroll at dusk.

[caption id="attachment_22258" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] Image credit: Si Viaggia[/caption]

Enjoy a stunning, bird’s eye view of the the sun setting on the island behind your loved one. For the shutterbugs and nature lovers, keep walking along the Southern Ridges to the Forest Walk and Canopy Walk, to capture the beauty of wild flowers and fauna.

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Feel on top of the world with your other half at this relaxing date spot, a romantic and tranquil getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Henderson Waves Bridge
Address: Henderson Road, Mount Faber Park, 099203
Open: Daily, 24 hours

3. Changi Point Coastal Walk

Chalets and nasi lemak aside, Changi has a beautiful boardwalk most of us aren’t aware of, the Changi Point Coastal Walk.

Nestled at the western end of Changi Point, this quiet two kilometres stretch will take you lovebirds through lush stretches of flora and fauna, and the picture perfect Changi Beach.

[caption id="attachment_22263" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image credit: Anti Mainstream Travel[/caption]

Chill in the cool ocean breeze as you take your romantic over-water stroll, for a dream beach vacation without having to leave our shores.

Earlybirds can catch the sunrise near the start of Boardwalk at Beach Walk, or enjoy the sunset near the end at Sunset Walk.

[caption id="attachment_22814" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Image credit: Flickr[/caption]

You’ll be sure to capture not only the panoramic views all the way to Pulau Ubin, but more importantly, your lover’s heart.

Changi Point Coastal Walk
Address: 6 Changi Village Rd, Singapore 509907
Open: Daily, 24 hours

4. Marina Bay Sands Skypark

Want to truly indulge your partner this Valentine’s Day? Your dream escape awaits at Marina Bay Sands, perhaps Singapore’s most iconic hotel.

[caption id="attachment_22260" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] Image credit: Marina Bay Sands[/caption]

Clink champagne glasses and drink in the beauty of the whole city, or stretch out to sunbathe on a soft poolside lounger.

[caption id="attachment_22815" align="aligncenter" width="1230"] Image credit: Singapore Guide[/caption]

Even if you haven’t booked a room, you can still gain access to all the luxurious facilities (except the infinity pool). The Skypark offers various chances for you and your loved one to share cuisines, drinks and make memories against a stunning backdrop of city lights and skyscrapers–all 57 storeys high.

Marina Bay Sands Skypark
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Open: Daily, 9.30am to 7pm
Tel: 6688 8888 (Hotel Reservations) 6688 8826 (Entertainment Ticketing)
Feeling inspired yet? Grab your loved one and head to these sweet spots to stroll, dine and make memories this Valentine’s Day!

Treat them to a lovely dinner, before a quiet evening walk against the setting sun, at any of these romantic places. We promise the experiences you share here will leave you with butterflies in your stomach, in more ways than one.

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

Thought You Knew All About Singapore? Here Are 10 Uncommon Places That’ll Guarantee A New Experience

Even if you’re not going abroad, you can look to our very own humble abode for fun things to do and places to explore. Singapore isn’t just about Orchard Road or Gardens by the Bay. We’re almost as sick of these places as you are!

Well, fret not! Come the weekend, you can look forward to something else to do! Here are 10 interesting and uncommon places to visit for a different kind of fun.

1. Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle & Dragon Kiln

[caption id="attachment_11369" align="alignnone" width="600"]Image source: Helmindra Image source: Helmindra[/caption]

Dubbed one of Singapore’s most well-kept secrets, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle is a place that combines heritage, history, discovery, and fun. It gives vibes of an old museum and you can actually buy proper pottery and art at a reasonable price!

There’s also the Dragon Kiln (a furnace/oven for burning pottery), one of the oldest surviving brick-built kilns in Singapore for wood firing. If you’d like to learn more about pottery, Thow Kwang also hosts a series of workshops that will give you your Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze “Ghost” pottery moment.

[caption id="attachment_11370" align="alignnone" width="594"]Image source: wjleow Image source: wjleow[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11371" align="alignnone" width="597"]Image source: lioncityboyzach Image source: lioncityboyzach[/caption]
  • Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle
  • Address:  85 Lorong Tawas, off Jalan Bahar
  • Contact number: +65 6268 6121
  • Operating Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm
  • Website: Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle

2. Lazarus Island

[caption id="attachment_11300" align="alignnone" width="600"]Image source: bhevzdelica Image source: bhevzdelica[/caption]

Are you looking for a beach to visit, but find that those at Sentosa are overpopulated? Why not try Lazarus Island instead? Accessible by a causeway from St John’s Island, Lazarus Island is home to an untouched tranquil beach.

You could take a dip in the clear turquoise waters, and bring along a picnic basket for a picnic on the pristine white sand. For the best beaches in Singapore, read this.

[caption id="attachment_11302" align="alignnone" width="599"]Image source: fadz_h Image source: fadz_h[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11303" align="alignnone" width="602"]Image source: jsonlah Image source: jsonlah[/caption]

3. The Observatory at Science Centre

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Stargazing, anyone? With a location near the equator, Singapore has an advantageous location. It allows stargazers to catch a glimpse of the constellations in both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres. If you happen to be in the west, drop by the Science Centre to check out the exhibits and end off your visit with a sky full of stars!

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  • Science Centre Observatory
  • Address: 21 Jurong Town Hall Road, 609433
  • Contact number: +65 6425 2500
  • Operating Hours: Friday 7:45pm- 10:00pm
  • Facebook: SCOB

4. Pulau Ubin

[caption id="attachment_11270" align="alignnone" width="740"]Image source: Your Singapore Image source: catching the sunrise, or even catching some fish at a kelong, this island literally spells fun under the sun!

It’s a great destination for those who would like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city (especially from the crowd!). Just swap the MRTs for rental bikes and enjoy nature.

[caption id="attachment_11297" align="alignnone" width="514"]Image source: Travelling Our Planet Image source: Travelling Our Planet[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11298" align="alignnone" width="599"]Image source: skyblue25 Image source: skyblue25[/caption]

5. MegaZip Adventure Park

[caption id="attachment_11311" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: Sentosa Image source: Sentosa[/caption]

Up for an adventure with your buddies? Head down to Sentosa’s MegaZip Adventure Park to get your adrenaline going. Hang 450-metre high up and swing across a jungle, beach, and the sea at a speed of up to 60 kilometres!

Not a fan of swinging across Sentosa? Check out Climb Max, an obstacle course consisting of three levels of aerial ropes at 15 metres high. That sure sounds like the next Singapore Ninja Warrior course!

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  • MegaZip Adventure Park
  • Address: Imbiah Hill Rd, Sentosa Island, 098967
  • Contact number:+65 6884 5602
  • Operating Hours: Daily, 11am-7pm
  • Entrance fee: $50++
  • Website: Image source: Bounce Singapore Image source: Bounce Singapore[/caption]

    The thought of hanging around Orchard as something fun to do probably did not cross your mind. But how about bouncing around the latest indoor adventure park that is strategically located in Orchard?

    Bounce Singapore is an epic urban playground that consists of interconnected trampolines, Freerun Terrain Park (like the one on American Ninja Warrior), and “Leap of Faith” – jump on a raised platform and leap out to catch hold of the trapeze. Best part of all? It’s indoors and you won’t get sunburnt from all that fun.

    [caption id="attachment_11345" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: Bounce Singapore Image source: Bounce Singapore[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11346" align="alignnone" width="960"]Image source: Bounce Singapore Image source: Bounce Singapore[/caption]
    • Bounce Singapore
    • Address: Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Road, #09-01
    • Contact number: +65 6816 2879
    • Operating Hours: Sun-Thurs (10am – 10pm), Fri-Sat (10am – midnight)
    • Entrance fee: $24++ (general admission), $19++(student discount)
    • Website: Bounce SG

    7. Singapore Botanic Gardens

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    8. Mint Museum Of Toy

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    You’re never too young or too old for toys! This toy museum will delight both adults and kids with its vast collection of vintage toys and memorabilia from around the world.

    With over 50,000 pieces of vintage toys, this collection is considered one of the finest in the world. Even the five-storey building that houses the museum is a work of art and has gained international recognition at Architectural Awards.

    [caption id="attachment_11437" align="alignnone" width="602"]Image source: Javier Wu Image source: Javier Wu[/caption] [caption id="attachment_11439" align="alignnone" width="601"]Image source: afiq_castello Image source: afiq_castello[/caption]