Rachel Yohannan

The Christmas period is upon us again – our favourite time of the year to devour grand feasts of roast meat, rich sides and sweet treats. We’ve curated a list of the best Christmas meals in Singapore from luxe hotel experiences to casual restaurants. Whether you’re after an intimate family dinner or an annual festive catch-up with friends, these dinners will have you covered. RECOMMENDED: Best Christmas buffets in Singapore and best Christmas log cakes and desserts

It’s that time again. Every year, we ask thousands of city-dwellers to tell us the coolest spots in their cities. What are the places locals love and visitors flock to? Where are the exciting new openings across food, drink and culture? Where are people going out, hanging out and having fun? For the sixth year running, the results are in. Over 12,000 people had their say in this year’s shortlist, naming the neighbourhoods in their hometowns where everyone wants to be right now. Then, we narrowed down the selection with the insight and expertise of city editors and local experts who know their cities better than anyone else. To create and rank the final list, we considered factors including community and social ventures, access to open and green space, and thriving street life. In 2023, our neighbourhoods are more global than ever before. The rise and rise in post-pandemic digital nomadism has led to an explosion of brand-new community spaces, multi-purpose culture centres and more cafés than we can count on two hands. But while most of these neighbourhoods have experienced a transformation over recent years, they remain resolutely local at heart. Slick new developments and cool cafés might bring in new crowds, but neighbourhood stalwarts – from old pubs to family greengrocers – keep it real.  The world’s coolest neighbourhoods this year are, therefore, places with big personalities. Each area’s diversity is reflected in its food, culture and festivals. Community is key: local

Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an annual religious celebration for Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains in Singapore. For those still uninitiated, here's a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the occasion, from its origins, how it's celebrated, and where you can get in on the fanfare regardless of your background. We've also put together a little cheatsheet on how to be a good house guest if you've been invited to a friend's Deepavali open house for the first time. RECOMMENDED: The best Indian restaurants in Singapore and guide the ultimate guide to Little India

It’s been five years since famed New York burger restaurant, Black Tap, landed on our shores to delight us with some of the best burgers, milkshakes, and craft beer. And to celebrate this milestone, they recently threw an unforgettable party at their one and only Singaporean outpost at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.  The by-invite-only birthday bash on October 12 saw power couple-founders Chris Barish and Julie Mulligan in attendance with over 350 guests dressing up to the 80s and 90s hip hop theme. Some invitees included local celebrities and influencers such as Allan Wu, Paul Foster, Thara Koi, Anna En, Noah Yap, Royce Lee, Joshua Chia and Cheris Lee.  Photograph: Black Tap It’s party time!    Upon entry, guests were invited to strike their best poses at the Black Tap 5th anniversary photo wall and leave their well wishes for the restaurant on the graffiti wall.  Of course, no party is complete without some nosh. Everyone was treated to an exclusive preview of Black Tap’s 2024 menu specials such as The Chairman, The Maui Wowi, K-Town Chicken Tenders and NY Hot Dogs. Long-standing favourites such as fried mozzarella were also served, along with sweet treats like the S’mores Shake, Matcha White Chocolate Shake, and State Fair Fried PB&J. With DJ Zippy and PartyWithJay helming the decks with throwback hits and hip hop music, it was indeed an evening of merriment. Adding on to the excitement were games like Milkshake Mania, where Allan Wu, Paul Foster, Anna En, and Thara Ko

Noisy, chaotic, and full of human traffic – that’s the general consensus of what the Chinatowns of the world are like. Singapore’s is no different, but beyond being just a tourist hotspot, it also possesses a charming air that appeals to even the most seasoned locals as well. In fact, it's just been crowned Singapore's coolest neighbourhood for 2023, as well as the third coolest neighbourhood in all of Asia.  Once a designated Chinese kampong harking back to 1822, this bustling district is now where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Home to a good mix of hawker centres, temples, and teahouses, all set alongside trendy bars, cafés, and independent art galleries, Chinatown is certainly a riot of colour. Here are the best things to do, see, and eat here. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods

The hazy days are upon us again and everyone is on a round-the-clock PSI (Pollutant Standards Index) watch. While there's nothing we can do on our end except to wait it out, here's how you can stay safe from the haze in Singapore and breathe easy until everything blows over. RECOMMENDED: The best local aromatherapy brands in Singapore and the best short day trips from Singapore

Working up a sweat in a gym or HIIT studio is a great way to stay active, but sometimes, an outdoor run can do wonders for the mind. After all, it’s a relatively fuss-free way to stay fit without the need for expensive gym memberships – and it's a welcome bonus when there are great views to make the journey seem less tiring. Here’s a rundown of scenic running routes across various zones in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best gyms in Singapore and Cheap gyms with memberships under $100

As far as local landmarks go, Raffles Hotel Singapore is by far one of the most iconic – and not just for its grand postcard-worthy exteriors. Though impeccably well-maintained, this five-star hotel retains its classic colonial charm harking back to the 1800s, and staying here is a premium experience right from the moment you encounter their unmistakable doormen. Plus, it's just been crowned the 17th best hotel in the World's 50 Best Hotels 2023 list, ranking a few spots above Capella, which gives you all the more reason to check it out. Even if you haven't booked one of their luxury suites, there's still plenty to explore within the hotel's sprawling grounds, from its gorgeous lawn area, to the marvel-worthy architecture, and its in-house lifestyle destination, Raffles Arcade. Read on for our guide on the best of Raffles Hotel.

Lights out and away we go! The Grand Prix Singapore Season shifts into high gear this weekend as the Formula 1 races reach a fever pitch. Whether you hold tickets to the adrenaline-fuelled races or not, there are plenty of F1-themed activities, dining options, drinking events, and afterparties that you can head to and feel part of the action.  Make a shopping pitstop at Siloso Beachwalk Bazaar or indulge in a Sunday brunch feast at Botanico. Check out rare and vintage toys modelled after iconic racing cars, and come sundown, party it up at Singapore's glitziest clubs. If that gets your engine going, then read on for more spectacular things to do this race weekend!RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to F1 including race schedule and fireworks and Where to watch F1 for free

Get your engines revving – the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix 2023 is just around the bend, and we’re all geared up to watch skilled speed demons tear up the track. Here’s a handy compilation of the most important points of info related to this exhilarating event, from who’s performing, to extended public transport timings, and how to watch the whole shebang. Plan your ultimate race weekend with this handy digital guide to Grand Prix Season Singapore 2023.  RECOMMENDED: Where to watch the F1 Singapore Grand Prix for free When is the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023? The F1 Singapore Grand Prix will be held in Singapore over three days, from September 15 to 17 2023 – Friday to Sunday.  Where will the F1 race be held? Similar to previous years, the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 2023 will once again be held at the Marina Bay Street Circuit right in the heart of the city. View the full Circuit Park map here. F1 Singapore race schedule and practice sessions The first two days of F1 are for the practice sessions and qualifying races, which are more or less scheduled back-to-back from around 2pm till evening. The official big race will be happening on the third and last day, from 8pm to 10pm. Who is performing at F1 Singapore 2023? There will be three days of live music concerts to entertain fans at F1 Singapore 2023, and it’s a fully packed line-up of both roving and on-stage performances spanning from mid-afternoon till late. Some main standouts include Jackson Wang, Post Malone, Rich Bri

Didn't manage to snag tickets for the highly-anticipated F1 race in Singapore? Grab your binoculars and a water bottle anyway – there are plenty of public places in the city where you can watch your favourite Formula One motorists zoom down the stretches and bends of the circuit, all without having to fork out a dime. This includes air-conditioned spaces too, so you won't necessarily have to sweat it out in the humidity. What kind of Grand Prix Season Singapore fan are you? Take this quiz to unlock your GPSS adventure.  RECOMMENDED Ultimate guide to the F1 Singapore Grand Prix: race schedule, road closures, fireworks and more

If investing in foreign real estate has been on your mind, the United Property Expo that’s happening this December will be a great opportunity to jump on – whether you’re a seasoned investor or someone who’s looking to purchase your first property overseas. As the largest exhibition of foreign real estate, the event will showcase over 10,000 properties from all over the world, including but not limited to Australia, Japan, Thailand, Dubai, Cyprus, Portugal, and Malaysia. Verified construction companies and real estate agencies from 12 countries will also be present, so you can make the most informed decision when purchasing, renting, or investing in one of their projects. Not to worry if you’re new to foreign real estate and are still uncertain about some of the processes involved, as attendees will receive professional advice on matters like taxes, mortgage, residence permits, and all the other nitty gritty details of purchasing a property abroad. You’ll also be privy to individual offers from developers, and be given full legal support related to transactions made during the event. Get your free e-ticket by registering here.

You already know the story of Alex the lion and his fellow animal friends, who set out on a quest to escape their enclosures in the Central Park Zoo in New York and inadvertently ended up on the other side of the world. Now, the Dreamworks animated film is coming to us live in the form of Madagascar The Musical, which will be making its way from King Julien’s jungle to sunny Singapore come January 2024. Get ready to move it, move it, as you follow the beloved characters’ adventures full of silly shenanigans, accompanied by upbeat song and dance numbers. Madagascar The Musical will be showing at Esplanade Theatre from January 18 to 28, 2024. Tickets start from $48. Find out more and make your booking here.

Gather your friends and take it old school with a wholesome round of retro-style roller skating – but not at a typical rink. At RollerMania 3.0, you’ll be zooming around on LED-lit skates across a car park, which will be given a groovy #throwback transformation with 80s-style neon decor. Shimmy and spin along to curated playlists as coloured lights dance across the space. Not to worry if you’re a novice on wheels, as skate assist devices and protection gear will be available for patrons. The event welcomes visitors of all ages, though young ones should be supervised at all times and have some level of skating proficiency. RollerMania 3.0 is a pop-up that will be open from November 17 2023 to January 1 2024. Watch this space for more details as its opening date draws closer.

If your sportswear or athleisure collection is up for a lil’ revamp, the Fila Fair by Takashimaya Department Store is one you don’t wanna miss. Currently ongoing till October 30, this sale at Ngee Ann City’s B1 Talking Hall is offering up to 50% off sportswear, jackets, casual tees, and other apparel for men, ladies, and kids. Also up for grabs with similar markdowns are Fila’s sports shoes, lifestyle sneakers, and slide, along with a range of bags and pouches. Bags are priced from $19 (U.P. $38 to $288) while footwear starts from $49 (U.P. $68 to $288).  On top of the existing discounts, you'll also get to enjoy an additional 10% off when you purchase three items at one go, or 20% off when you purchase five. Team up with your friends to maximise your savings, and be sure to head down early to snag your sizes as stocks are moving fast! Find out more here.

Unleash your inner speed demon and zoom across the tracks of KF1 Karting Circuit, the largest go kart facility in Singapore. Located within walking distance of Kranji MRT station, their flagship branch boasts a 960m track with 18 exhilarating corners, complete with a snazzy lighting system inspired by F1 races. Novices can race at up to 30km/hour without requiring a driving license, while seasoned motorists can take the advanced karts that reach more exhilarating speeds of 50km/h. If a journey to the west is too out of the way, there's also their second outlet at Expo, which is also conveniently accessible via public transport.

If you found yourself enthralled by the whimsical paintings of the Twinkle Day exhibition at ARTTRIO gallery, you’re sure to love their next showcase, titled ‘From Beyond The Sea’. Helmed by rising millennial Japanese artist, Ryoko Kaneta, this maiden solo exhibition of hers in Singapore features paintings in her signature imaginative manga-like style – all with an additional sea-themed element. Inspired by Japan’s magical sea legends and beautiful water bodies, the works in the exhibition bring a sense of dreaminess, mysteriousness, and tranquillity all at once. With flowing long tresses that blend into rolling waves and mountains, Ryoko’s wide-eyed, doll-like characters take centre stage while seamlessly being part of the colourful landscapes portrayed. Look closer and you’ll notice iconic Japanese motifs like the traditional kimono, shrines, and seifuku (school uniform) weaved in too. ‘From Beyond The Sea’ by Ryoko Kaneta will be running in Singapore from October 21 to November 30 2023 with free entry. Find out more here.

Pagoda Street is home to plenty of hawker stalls, Chinese restaurants, and little kiosks offering touristy souvenirs – a familiar image of the traditional Chinatown as we know it. But hidden amongst this hodgepodge of food and culture is a fresh new fashion haunt that’s popular among the younger generation. Located on the second floor of a shophouse, NearesTTen is a thrift store with curated fashion picks spanning across various styles. Expect the most in-trend selection of vintage clothing for both guys and gals, including but not limited to good ol’ Von Dutch caps, denim staples, Juicy Couture bags, and Dickies pants – talk about a major throwback. Those going for the “soft girl” aesthetic can snag one of their many fairycore tops, while fans of the grunge movement can make a beeline for the array of band tees. If you’re wondering about the thrift store’s moniker, it’s likely because their prices come in denominations of ten – i.e., the nearest ten – whereby all items are going for at $10, $20, and so on. These usually don’t go past $40, and are only priced as such if they’re particularly rare. Most pieces will simply set you back just a red note or two.

So, you’ve graduated from trick-or-treating and have already conquered Halloween Horror Nights. What’s next? Well, for a change from the usual Halloween nightlife events, gather your pals and troop up the hill of Mount Sophia for an experiential four-course dinner at The Secret Haven – a once-abandoned chapel that’s since been newly-refurbished for weddings and fine dining. First, you’ll encounter Chinese goddess Meng Po, and be made to drink a bowl of her special soup before crossing the Bridge of Oblivion. The party starts once your memories have been erased by this concoction and you enter the gates of the underworld, swathed in swirls of mysterious fog. Don’t mind the creepy body bags lying around. It’s not a total scarefest, but a space where heaven and hell collide with the “Saints and Sinners” theme. You’ll have to pick your faction during the sign-up stage, and your choice will determine your menu and challenges for the night. We won’t give away too many spoilers, but be prepared for some pranks and spooky games. Nothing too crazy such that you’ll be heaving up your dinner, though. Speaking of dinner, it’s a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. Again, we’ll avoid taking away that element of surprise, but what we will say is that we were especially charmed by the pumpkin soup, served in an actual pumpkin! While presentation is on point across the board, taste and portions have definitely not been compromised on.  Weekday dinners ($110) are child-friendly. Sessions

Missed out on the POP TOY SHOW? Fret not, because toy enthusiasts in Singapore now have another new playground to explore: a Funko pop-up store at Changi Airport’s newly-renovated Terminal 2. The best part is that unlike the former which involved entry tickets and was merely a weekend event, this one’s a free-to-enter space that’ll be running over a couple of months, so there’s plenty of time to check it out. The first of its kind in Southeast Asia, this experiential Funko pop-up store will not only showcase a wide range of their famous Pop! Boxes figurines, but also an all-new micro-sized line of collectibles called Bitty Pop!, along with interactive activity zones suitable for all. Don’t miss out on the life-sized photo spots featuring your favourite characters such as Harry Potter, Batman, and Groot, all set against themed backdrops for a more immersive experience. Figurines aren’t the only thing to look forward to. Loungefly’s licensed Disney fashion picks will be up for sale, with items including backpacks, wallets, and purses. The Funko pop-up store is already open at the Departure Hall of Changi Airport Terminal 2 as of October 6, and will be running for at least five months until January 2024 or so.

We love scoring cheap thrift store finds, but on the flip side of pre-loved shopping, there’s also something special about owning a rare vintage luxury piece. If you’re a fashionista on the hunt for highly exclusive branded handbags and accessories, you’ll have a field day at The Née Vintage Store, a lesser-known vintage fashion retailer nestled among the rows of shophouses at Chinatown. From Christian Dior, to Hermes, to Louis Vuitton, and Chanel, pretty much all your favourite high fashion houses are represented at The Née Vintage Store in a wide selection of refurbished pre-loved leather bags. Many of them are out-of-production vintage models – own one, and you essentially have a piece of treasure in your closet. Alternatively, jazz up your look with their range of high-end vintage watches and jewellery. They also have exquisite vintage homeware like dinner plates and tea sets for sale, all painstakingly sourced from Japan. Imagine sipping your morning coffee out of a Frank Muller mug, or eating cookies off a floral Tiffany & Co. saucer! Keen on cleaning up your existing collection to make space for something new? Sign up for The Née Vintage Store’s bag consignment service, and have your pre-loved pieces conveniently appraised and sold on your behalf.

Be whisked off into Disney’s fantasy world with Disney Princess – The Concert, where the soundtracks of your favourite romantic fairytales will come to life, belted out by established Broadway singers on the big stage. Expect familiar classics like A Whole New World from Aladdin, Part of Your World from The Little Mermaid, and other singalong bangers including Let It Go from Frozen. It’s a star-studded cast with names like Anneliese van der Pol (Belle in Beauty and the Beast and Chelsea Daniels in That’s So Raven), Aisha Jackson (Anna in Frozen and Snow White in Once Upon a One More Time), Krysta Rodriguez (Cinderella in Into the Woods and Meg in Hercules), and many more. Couple this line-up with special lighting and smoke effects, accompanied by a backdrop of animations, and you’ve got yourself the perfect night of Disney magic that’ll enchant both the young and young at heart. Disney Princess – The Concert will be held over just two nights at the Esplanade Theatre, on November 26 and 27 2023 – just in time for the year-end school holidays. Standard tickets start from $78. Find out more here and book your seats here.

Brides-to-be who are planning on tying the knot in Singapore now have a romantic new spot to consider. Housed in a restored chapel from the 1960s is The Secret Haven – a charming and aptly-named gem of a wedding venue that’s located atop a hill. But despite its elevated position, it’s not at all far-flung – in fact, it’s a walkable distance from Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. To be exact, The Secret Haven is located on the hilltop of Mount Sophia, which is technically part of town but sheltered from its bustle – thus making it the perfect place for an easily accessible but intimate wedding celebration. Though seemingly compact from the outside, this single-storey conservation building accommodates a generous guestlist of 120 to 130. The outdoor area can fit another 20 to 30 persons. It’s all about tasteful elegance here. Save for the gorgeous stained glass windows found on both ends of the venue, the space is rather minimally decorated, but beauty is found in all the finer details. Soft white fabric drapes from the ceiling while textural marble flooring adds a touch of luxe, and not much else is needed to make this place shine. If anything, the minimalist decor allows the wedding couple to stand out even more instead of being drowned out by unnecessary frills. Pick from European-inspired Western course menus or Chinese fusion ones. At time of writing, rates are relatively reasonable, starting from $128/pax on weekdays and $148/pax on weekends. Floral decorations, printed menus an

Singaporeans were left surprised when a certain unexpected pick made it to the recent world’s best fine dining restaurants list for 2023 – but whether you agree with the result or otherwise, it doesn’t change the fact that this Little Red Dot is indeed a city for foodies who can appreciate the finer things in life. In any case, La Liste – a French ranking guide for restaurants – has already released their global Top 1000 Restaurants list for 2024, and 12 establishments from Singapore have made the cut as some of the best in the world. La Liste’s ranking method scores thousands of restaurants based on a variety of criteria, and involves chefs’ opinions along with reviews from guidebooks, publications, and casual user-generated online reviews. The final La Liste scores are then tallied up by percentage, with 100 being the highest. Coming in tops for Singapore is Odette, which is unsurprising given that it won the title of Best Restaurant in Asia at the World's 50 Best 2023 Awards Ceremony earlier this year. Odette scores a commendable 98.50, tying at the third place with 25 other restaurants in the world. Out of our list of 12, Singapore’s scores range from this number to 75.50, a score awarded to Japanese restaurant Shoukouwa. Top restaurants in Singapore 2024: Odette Les Amis Zen Saint Pierre Waku Ghin Jaan by Kirk Westaway Cut by Wolfgang Puck Iggy’s Burnt Ends Crystal Jade Golden Palace Shisen Hanten Shoukouwa Check out La Liste's world’s Top 1000 Restaurants list for 202

We spent the last few months sweating it out with the annual heatwave, but it’s now time to gear up for a snowy adventure – all without having to fly abroad. Thanks to pop-up winter playground Ice Magic: Winter Wonderland, our white Christmas dreams are about to turn into reality right here in tropical Singapore, complete with actual snow and a slew of icy cool activities in sub-zero temperatures. This year’s edition of Ice Magic features an all-new eight-metre merry-go-round on ice, as well as a double-lane couple ice slide, where you can whizz down hand-in-hand with your loved one. Both of these attractions are the first of their kind in Singapore. There will also be an exhilarating snow slope standing over six metres tall, which you can either conquer on skis or a float. In the last hour of each session, multi-hued lights will come into play and illuminate the entire snowscape – almost mimicking the romantic aurora borealis of the Arctic. Other highlights include giant ice sculptures, a cosy wooden cottage that serves as a photo backdrop, and a Winter Food Village with Christmassy treats like Swiss rosti and mulled wine, along with fun-filled games. Patrons are required to bring or wear their own socks, but winter jackets and snow boots will be available for rental should you not have your own. Ice Magic: Winter Wonderland will be running from December 9, 2023 to January 21, 2024 at Bayfront Event Space, right outside Marina Bay Sands. Early bird tickets are already on

Mega street food market festival Artbox will be returning to Singapore once again in 2024, and like 2023’s edition, this round will also be held in air-conditioned comfort at the Singapore Expo. This upcoming event held over two consecutive weekends – January 26 to 28 and February 2 to 4 – will be a gastronomical wonderland of over 100 food stalls offering various types of cuisine including Western, Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Taiwanese. Shopping options have also been expanded this year, with even more retail booths than before.  There will also be roving dance performances, stage games, and special activity zones with activities lined up for your entertainment. Watch familiar local celebrities and influencers brave The Beam of Sia Lah Damn Pain – a long balance beam riddled with painful surprises that they’ll have to endure along the way. More details will be released in time to come. Stay tuned to updates via Artbox Singapore’s Instagram page. READ MORE:The Bus Collective: have a staycation in a retired SBS busTokyu Hands has rebranded as Hands with over 1,200 new Japanese productsMr. Coconut opens Three Little Coconut, Singapore’s first coconut-centric café

Popular Japanese lifestyle chain Tokyu Hands has undergone a revamp, and they’re now simply known as Hands, both across Japan and various overseas outposts. But a change in name and logo isn’t all there is to it – they’ve also revamped their selection of products in Singapore with over 1,200 new offerings, including items that are exclusive to our Little Red Dot. Some of these Singapore-exclusives include premium stationery, specific ranges of the popular Lululun face masks, HARIO Immersion Dripper Switch coffee dripper, and adorable stickers that feature local motifs like the Merlion. If you’re a fan of personalised stationery, check out the premium Pilot MR3 fountain pens which come with Japanese-inspired designs and complimentary name engraving services. There are also renewed lifestyle corners where shoppers can try out items before committing to a purchase. Of course, the usual favourites like Japanese cosmetics, kitchenware, plushies, and adorable collectibles like Sonny Angels blind boxes remain.   Picking out a gift for a friend? Make use of Hands’ gift-wrapping services, which now come with new environmentally friendly packaging that’s aesthetically-pleasing and won't cost the earth. READ MORE:All-new Anchorpoint Mall now open with refreshed shopping options in QueenswayChristmas Wonderland returns this December for its biggest edition with carnival rides, light displays and live performancesMr. Coconut opens Three Little Coconut, Singapore’s first coconut-centri

Naysayers who previously brushed off Mr. Coconut as a mere fad are sorely mistaken. Not only does the coconut beverage chain still draw long queues seven years after its initial inception in 2016, it’s also expanding to open its sister brand, Three Little Coconut. While Mr. Coconut stalls solely operate as drink takeaway kiosks, Three Little Coconut is a sit-down café where patrons can gather with friends over both food and thirst-quenchers. Set to be the first coconut-themed dessert café in Singapore, Three Little Coconut is slated to open this November at One Punggol community centre, near Waterway Point. The 30-seater outlet will be decked out in a calming tropical theme, featuring light wooden furnishing accented with a smattering of leafy decor, palm tree motifs, and neon light fixtures shaped like Mr. Coconut’s unmistakable mascot. Tuck into a spread that’s inspired by both current trends and timeless traditional flavours. There are eight categories of items to choose from: Coconut cheesecakes Coconut juice tan shuis Signature coconut tang shuis Traditional coconut desserts Coconut snowy ice Croffles Coconut jelly and pudding Ice cream Within these are desserts including coconut kopi snowy ice, cendol burnt cheesecake topped with cendol jelly, sweet red beans, and coconut sauce, as well as the peach gum coconut tang shui, topped with sweet red dates and goji berries. Of course, Mr. Coconut’s beloved signature coconut beverages will also be served alongside this new l

Earlier this year, Singapore’s Changi Airport was named the best airport in the world for the 12th time – much to no one’s surprise. What might come as a shocker, however, is that we’re not as highly-ranked on the kid-friendly front. According to a new report by travel resource The Family Vacation Guide, our beloved Changi Airport comes in at 10th place on the world’s most family-friendly airports list, tying with Japan’s Fukuoka Airport. Here’s the full top ten list of family-friendly airports in the world: Mexico City Juarez International in Mexico and JFK International Airport in New York City (tied) NIL O’Hare International Airport in Illinois Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania St Paul International Airport in Minnesota Frankfurt am Main International Airport in Germany Toronto Pearson International Airport in Canada Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Indonesia El Dorado International Airport in Colombia Changi Airport in Singapore and Fukuoka Airport in Japan (tied) This list was created based on a pool of 77 of the biggest international airports in the world, so being in the top 10 isn’t too shabby after all. Still, we can’t help feeling a tad indignant, because with all the facilities Changi Airport is equipped with, it’s hard to see how it wouldn’t be a haven for families.  Hear us out – some of the many attractions at Changi Airport include a free cinema, video game lounge, butterfly garden, giant slide spanning a couple of storeys, and even a

Many of us grown Singaporean adults love Hello Kitty more than we’d like to admit. Case in point? The hype surrounding the recent Sanrio Garden of Lights pop-up, where people of all ages queued up just to snap photos with life-sized character installations.  And boy was the crowd wild. But instead of having you jostle it out with the masses, the newest Sanrio treat in Singapore is one you can enjoy in the comfort of your home for a change. This is none other than a pretty pink Hello Kitty ice cream by F&N Magnolia, one of the most popular fresh milk brands in Singapore. With a vanilla base, this Sanrio-licensed Hello Kitty ice cream is coated with a pink raspberry ripple chocolate, cutely moulded to mimic the shape of the character’s face. It’s certainly high on Instagram factor! The F&N Magnolia Hello Kitty ice cream can be purchased as single sticks for $3.50 at all leading supermarkets and hypermarkets, but it’s worth considering a multipack of 4 at $12.50. Not only will the latter option let you enjoy each stick of ice cream at a cheaper price, you’ll also get to redeem a free Hello Kitty lunch bag when you purchase two boxes. The limited edition lunch bags are only available at selected stores while stocks last. You can get your hands on them from Monday, October 23.  That’s not all. From November 1 onwards, Kitty fans would want to pop by VivoCity’s FairPrice outlet to check out limited-time Hello Kitty Truck installation for some kawaii fun. READ MORE:Southeast Asia's

Singapore is home to some of the world’s best bars, hotels, and what’s consistently been one of the top airlines in the world. We’re a pretty cool little city, even if we say so ourselves – but hey, don’t just take it from us. Time Out’s official list of coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2023 has just been announced, and Singapore’s Chinatown has made the ranks, coming in at 14th place. A rigorous selection process was carried out to determine this list. First, Time Out polled over 12,000 people regarding the coolest neighbourhoods in their city, with options further whittled down with the expertise of Time Out’s network of editors who know the ins and outs of their respective cities at the back of their hands. The final list of 40 was then made based on various factors including but not limited to thriving street life, foodie scene, and diversity – all of which our Chinatown has gotten down pat. Aside from making it in the top 15 spots, Chinatown also happens to be the third coolest neighbourhood in Asia this year, coming in a few notches below Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan (#5) and Japan’s Tomigaya (#10) in Tokyo. Claiming the top four spots globally are: Laureles in Medellín, Colombia; Smithfield in Dublin, Ireland; Carabanchel in Madrid, Spain; and Havnen in Copenhagen, Denmark. The other neighbourhoods in Asia that made this list are: Hannam-dong (#25) in Seoul, South Korea; Zhongshan (#34) in Taipei, Taiwan; Bonifacio Global City (#35) in Manila, Philippines; Dotonbori (

Fans of Flash Coffee will have to search for a new go-to for their daily caffeine fix, because the coffee chain has closed all their outlets in Singapore without warning. While this news might come as a shocker to many, especially given how swiftly the brand has opened multiple outlets across the island, it seems that trouble has been brewing for a while now.  As seen in a TikTok video uploaded on October 12 by @resonancereviews, the workers of Flash Coffee’s Jurong Point branch have allegedly been on strike. A notice stuck on a board in front of the closed outlet cites “late salary payouts”, along with how “Flash baristas islandwide deserve a conducive work environment” for this supposed walkout. Photograph: @resonancereviews/TikTok However, according to MustShareNews, Flash Coffee has denied any of such worker strikes, stating that the absence of workers is precisely due to the closure of stores. In light of this pull-out, Flash Coffee says that they’ve offered their employees new opportunities in their other markets and will also be helping affected baristas find jobs with other F&B establishments. READ MORE The best cafés in Singapore for brunch and coffeeGrungy industrial-chic café hidden in a gothic buildingBest new cafés and restaurants in Singapore

Since its debut in 2009, the annual World’s 50 Best Bars awards has always been a highly-anticipated event in the global bar scene. And 2023’s edition is especially significant for alcohol aficionados in Singapore, because the live awards ceremony will be happening on our very island for the first time. In fact, we’re the first country in Asia that has been picked to play host to the event. Ahead of the actual event on October 17, the extended 51 to 100 list has already been announced – and Singapore comes in strong with five establishments making the list, namely: 28 HongKong Street at #59 Manhattan at #63 Nutmeg & Clove at #64 Analogue Initiative at #78 Native at #83 While this number is a slight decrease from last year – where we had a whopping eight bars making the 51 to 100 list – we’ve come out tops in Asia once again, a feat worth celebrating nonetheless. Stay tuned for next week’s announcement to find out who will snag the top few places, and whether Singapore’s Jigger & Pony will retain its spot as the best bar in Asia. In the meantime, check out the full 51 to 100 list below, along with some FAQs: Where and when will The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 awards ceremony be held? The live awards ceremony for The World’s 50 Best Bars will be held in Singapore, at Pasir Panjang Power Station (27 Pasir Panjang Road), on the evening of October 17 2023, Tuesday. How to watch The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 awards ceremony in Singapore? If you haven’t got yourself any exclusive ti

Whether you swear by them or otherwise, it can’t be denied that personality tests – and categorising one’s personality in general – are always a source of entertainment. Case in point? That never-ending curiosity surrounding things like horoscopes, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), and even frivolous topics like ‘what pizza are you?’ Well, here’s another one to try: the Innate Personality Traits test by Taiwan Design Expo that's currently trending hard in Singapore. Unlike the MBTI test with more serious questions that bring up potential real-life situations, this one is more lighthearted, and takes you on a mythical adventure in a fantasy world with cute animations to boot. We won’t give you too many spoilers, but be prepared to encounter mysterious caves, talking birds, and a sea with glittery gold water along the way. Results are mostly elemental-based and somewhat reminiscent of Pokémon types – with some examples being Light, Rock, and Steel – but there are also a couple of more whimsical-sounding ones like Fairy and Feline. Each results card shows a list of five phrases you might find yourself saying, along with nine character traits. You’ll also get to see which other innate personality types you are least and most compatible with, so you can have fun comparing with your friends and partner. There are 16 results in total, namely: Water, Light, Grass, Poison, Flying, Fire, Feline, Steel, Super Power, Ice, Fairy, Ground, Electric, Rock, Wind, and Ghost. There also

Singapore making rankings…again? Yup, you best believe it – our Lion City is small but mighty. Aside from having two of the world’s best hotels and making the list for the world’s best fine dining restaurants, we’ve recently been named one of the best countries in the world – the second best in Asia. As if that’s not enough, we’ve just been crowned the fifth best city in the world in 2023, according to a report by Resonance Consultancy. Taking up the first four spots are London, Paris, New York, and Tokyo. The other cities in this year's top 10 list after Singapore are Dubai, San Francisco, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Seoul, in order of ranking.  According to Resonance Consultancy, hundreds of cities have been considered to eventually make the top 100 list. Aside from global statistics and user-generated ratings and reviews, three main pillars of Liveability, Lovability, and Prosperity have also been considered to generate a final Place Power Score in the ranking system. Under these are a multitude of sub-factors including Sights & Landmarks, Higher Education, Google Trends, Nightlife, Poverty Rate, and GDP Per Capita, just to name a few. Singapore comes in at #2 globally for Prosperity, #14 for Lovability, and #17 for Liveability globally in the Place Power Score. In particular, we’ve been highlighted for our Bikescore (#9), Shopping (#11), and Restaurants (#14). Although there has been great debate about the price of happiness in Singapore, we can’t say we disagree that this