Rachel Yohannan

Our mums are superstars all year round, but this is the one time of the year where you have the perfect excuse to show extra appreciation toward her. Other than treating her to a delicious Mother’s Day meal or planning a Mother’s Day outing with fun bonding activities like jewellery workshops or strolling through a flower display, you can add a sweeter note to the occasion by blessing her with a thoughtful treat. These local bakeries and dessert stores in Singapore are whipping up special Mother’s Day treats, ranging from cute macarons to a warabimochi cake and even pistachio mille crepe inspired by the latest Dubai chocolate trend.  RECOMMENDED: The best cake shops in Singapore and The best florists in Singapore for any occasion

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.

Whether you're a regular runner or just looking to get moving, Singapore has no shortage of scenic trails that make your time outdoors worth it. From quiet nature trails to breezy coastal paths, we’ve rounded up some of the best running routes across the island. So lace up, head outside and get a dose of fresh air.  If you’re looking to soak in the fresh air and stunning scenery while testing your fitness limits, sign up for Singapore T100 and challenge yourself on April 5 and 6 at Marina Bay. RECOMMENDED: The best nature trails in Singapore and The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore  

People who don’t live in cities will tell you they’re busy, lonely and expensive places. But there’s a reason so many people choose to live in them: with world-class art and culture, unbeatable food and nightlife, buzzing neighbourhoods and a dizzying amount of stuff to do and see, there’s simply no better place to be.  Every year, we take the pulse of city living by quizzing thousands of locals across the planet about life in their hometowns. This year, more than 18,500 city-dwellers shared their insights on everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. When urban living can sometimes feel isolating and costly, this year we wanted to get a sense of what, exactly, makes a city feel like home. Sure, the nightlife is great, but is the city safe and walkable? Is good quality food and art available at a reasonable price? Is it easy to make friends, find love, and access nature?  Livability was a key factor in our ranking this year. But a great city to live in is, naturally, a great city to visit. So, along with the thousands of responses from locals around the world, we asked Time Out’s global network of city experts to vote on the places they think are particularly exciting right now. After crunching all that data, here we are: Time Out’s definitive ranking of the world’s best cities in 2025. Read on to see how your hometown fared… RECOMMENDED:🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now🌎 The best things to do in the

You know that the Chinese New Year festivites are starting to get in full swing when you see our island lit up with stunning lanterns and striking red and gold garlands. This year, plenty of serpent-themed decorations are slithering their way across our streets and coiling around every corner to herald the year of the snake. Ready to slide right into the lively bustle of the season? There's no better way than to do so by soaking it all up at these best Chinese New Year light-ups spots for 2025. RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese New Year events in Singapore and Best Chinese New Year 2025 light-ups and displays in Singapore

Vibrant lantern displays are starting to take over our streets, heralding the arrival of another Chinese New Year. Beyond savouring pineapple tarts and reconnecting with loved ones during this time, immerse yourself in the spirit of things with all the festive events across Singapore this season, from stunning illuminations to lion dances and even free firecracker displays. Don your festive finest and slither into the year of the snake with these best Chinese New Year events in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants for Chinese New Year 2025 reunion dinner in Singapore and Local fashion brands with modern cheongsams in Singapore

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, dear gentlemen, and it’s time to find the perfect gift for the special lady in your life. Here’s a pro tip: if she says she doesn’t want a gift, she’s probably not being entirely honest – and even if she is, a thoughtful gesture is certainly always welcome. If you're stumped on shopping and need some inspiration, we’ve got you covered with a curated list of Valentine’s Day 2025 gift ideas in Singapore that are bound to impress, with options to suit every budget.  RECOMMENDED: The best Valentine's Day dinners in Singapore for a romantic meal for two and The most romantic restaurants in Singapore    

The year has just started but it’s already sounding like a blast – but can one really expect anything less from Singapore, the fifth best city in Asia? There’s always something fresh poppin’ up in various corners of our island, and these 25 new and upcoming experiences in our Little Red Dot just prove that good things do indeed come in small packages. From new nature spaces, to a lifestyle enclave with charming cafés, and a hangout for music concert buffs, here are our big 25 for the books this 2025. RECOMMENDED: 101 best things to do in Singapore and 50 best restaurants in Singapore

We’ll be the first to say it: 2025 could not come any sooner. End off 2024 with a resounding bang with our compilation of the best New Year’s Eve parties and events across Singapore on December 31. Whether you’re dancing the year away at all-night raves, sipping on free-flow bubbly, or enjoying the breathtaking fireworks display with your loved ones, these places pull out all the stops for an unforgettable end to yet another thrilling year. Keep scrolling for all the deets. RECOMMENDED: The best nightclubs in Singapore and Light To Night returns in January 2025 with dazzling light installations

The New Year's Eve fireworks in Singapore get even more impressive with each year, and we aren’t expecting anything less this December 31. While the annual Let’s Celebrate countdown show and fireworks will be televised live on our local free-to-air channels, nothing beats getting to experience the fireworks in person. While this show will be held at Singapore Sports Hub at Kallang this year, the Marina Bay area will still be having its own fireworks extravaganza, as will Sentosa – which means you’ll get to admire the pyrotechnics from even more locations this year. Read on for a list of the best New Year’s Eve fireworks viewing locations in Singapore, from free viewing spots to paid venues that are worth the splurge. RECOMMENDED: Best New Year's Eve parties and events in Singapore and 17 heartland locations across Singapore will have New Year's Eve celebrations

It’s that time of the year again where our Little Red Dot starts getting into a festive buzz. That’s right folks, Christmas is around the corner and our island is packed with lots of merry fun.  From dazzling Christmas light displays and frosty winter-themed attractions to lively holiday markets, there’s no shortage of seasonal cheer. Here’s your guide to the best Christmas events in Singapore in 2024 for a jolly ol’ time. RECOMMENDED: The best places to see Christmas lights and decorations in Singapore and The best Christmas markets in Singapore      

Ho ho ho, the merriest time of the year is here. Like the rest of the world, Asian countries are all geared up to turn up the festive fun, with bustling Christmas markets, carnival-like festivals, and dazzling illuminations everywhere from Seoul to Singapore – yes, even the tropical countries are joining the jolly celebrations. No matter where you are and what your budget is, these are the biggest and best Christmas celebrations in Asia that you'll want to travel for.  READ MORE: The best rooftop bars in Asia and The best restaurants in Asia

Relive the magic of your childhood days with a new Peter Rabbit-themed afternoon tea experience that's hopped its way into Singapore for a limited period of time. In homage to the beloved storybook series by acclaimed children's author Beatrix Potter, each indulgent set comes with sweet and savoury English garden-inspired nibbles – including those shaped like apples, a pot of flowers, and blueberry basket – and adorable themed decor that you can take home as souvenirs. Special care has also been taken to include bunny-friendly ingredients, such as soft seeds, fruits and vegetables. Best of all, you get to enjoy all of this in an elegant lounge on the 70th floor, with sweeping views of Singapore's landmarks and surrounding seas as a backdrop. Find out more about our experience at this Peter Rabbit afternoon tea.

Orchard Road’s newest hotel has recently opened to welcome guests, and it’s one with Hollywood roots. With a name like The Standard, there can only be one of two outcomes – it either sets the, well, standard for other hotels in Singapore’s central shopping district, or risks falling short of its ambitious name in an unfortunate case of irony (see also: café in Singapore called Average Service). Upon Googling images of the hotel along Orange Grove, I was initially a tad doubtful. I could already tell that this wasn’t a particularly sprawling hotel, and while modern as advertised, it didn’t seem to have any standout features – no gym, club lounge, spa and the like. Yet, curious to find out what exactly it is that makes The Standard brand so popular around the world with a presence in more than 10 cities including New York, Ibiza, and Miami, I packed a bag for a one-night stay with no expectations. The short verdict? Whoever was doing the initial stock photography for the hotel certainly didn’t do it justice, and there’s lots more to discover in person. Read on for our full review of The Standard, Singapore. About The Standard hotel group Photograph: Rachel Yohannan for Time OutThe very first Standard Hotel was unveiled along the Sunset Strip in Hollywood back in 1999. That debut branch has since closed as of a couple of years back, but the brand now exists in multiple cities. Each Standard property has its own unique touches, so no two are the same. For example, the one in Lond

Mainstays like the Singapore Art Museum and ArtScience Museum are probably the first places that come to mind when you’re in the mood for an artsy outing. But take a look in other areas in Singapore, and you’ll discover smaller independent galleries that are also worth a visit – and one of the newer entrants in the scene is Nonage Gallery, located within brooding gothic tower The Mill at Bukit Merah. It’s always something new with each visit – Nonage Gallery keeps things fresh for visitors by switching up its exhibitions every two months or so. This also allows them to rotate the spotlight on their featured artists, thus providing visibility to a wider pool of these underrated creatives from Singapore and around the region throughout the year. One thing that’s constant throughout, though, is the presence of vibrant, whimsical art styles. While quite a handful of different artists’ works have been featured, all of them have a quirky and almost child-like quality – and we mean this in the best way possible. From pop surrealism to manga-inspired paintings and even giant plush carrots sprawled across the floor, everything you’ll discover here can easily be appreciated by all, even if you don’t consider yourself a serious art buff. Once you’re done, pop by coffee roaster Alchemist within the same building for a caffeine fix. This isn't your regular coffee joint either, as its got dark Victorian-style interiors that match the building itself. Keep up to date with Nonage Gallery’s l

In the middle of the bustling shopping district of Orchard lies a new little retreat for those looking to improve the condition of their hair at the root. You won’t find services like haircuts, dyeing, and perms here, because Headspa by Goyo, which recently opened in late 2025, isn’t exactly a hair salon in the conventional sense; Rather, it’s a Korean scalp wellness spa that uses traditional massage techniques to improve hair health and hair growth. First impressions? The outlet is much smaller than expected with just two parallel rows of curtained treatment rooms – basically everything you see in the establishment photo above – and I was surprised to find that it’s void of any reception counter, waiting area or consultation room. Instead, the spa piggybacks on these facilities over at Bada Hair Salon right next door, another Korean hair salon. That said, I was greeted warmly and served a cup of tea along with some Korean snacks – much welcome after a hectic day at work.  My 90-minute Ayurveda Headspa ($180) first began with a scalp analysis and scalp scan, which revealed that I had an oily scalp. We then proceeded into the treatment room for an aromatherapy session with a heated eye mask and head and shoulder massage, just what I needed to really get into the mood of relaxation. This was further enhanced by the salon’s unique woody interiors that are inspired by hanoks (traditional Korean houses). Other steps include a thorough wash, head node combing for blood circulation

​Raffles Hotel Singapore's highly anticipated sakura afternoon tea returns for just two weeks this April, offering a delectable array of cherry blossom-infused bites. Indulge in sweet creations like the sakura azuki roll cake, sakura raspberry mont blanc, and the refreshing sakura coconut miso verrine, as well as savoury selections like crab salad tart with tobiko, inari beef teriyaki, and a classic Japanese-style tamagoyaki sando. Along with these are three types of homemade scones: original, raisin, and a unique savoury option. Your choice of complimentary Jing tea or a special Raffles coffee blend will be served, but you can also add some buzz to the experience with a Sakura Sling – a floral twist on the iconic Singapore Sling cocktail – or a glass of premium champagne served with an additional sweet treat on the house. Find out more about Raffles Hotel's sakura afternoon tea for 2025.

You probably wouldn't have heard of Pan Fresco if you haven't stepped into Shaw Plaza at Balestier lately. And why would you? The neighbourhood mall isn't typically where you'd specially plan an outing to – but this cosy bakery-café might just change your mind. As cafés in Singapore get pricier and pricer, this understated establishment keeps things affordable with $3 kouign amann, $3.80 fruit danishes and almond Hokkaido milk loaves, and a crowd-favourite pistachio croissant for just $5.80.Croffles, lemon tarts, and cube pastries in flavours like green tea and Biscoff are also on the menu, but those who aren't after something sweet can go for the selection of sandwiches, savoury buns, and the ham and cheese croissant with salted egg yolk sauce. Beverages are similarly affordable with coffee-based drinks starting from $3.50 and hot or iced chocolate from $4.50. Apart from its artisan tea, pretty much nothing here is priced $6 and above. Find out more about Pan Fresco here.

The run-down Excelsior Shopping Centre is probably the last place you'd expect to find an art gallery, but that's where I_S_L_A_N_D_S has made its home amidst a hodgepodge of guitar and music hobby stores. Though tiny, this art space is constantly teeming with freshness and creativity, thanks to its ever-rotating line-up of displays mainly by local talents. From cat-themed sculptures to a 'found library' and even a collage made using plant matter, there have been plenty of quirky and boundary-breaking set-ups hosted in this little nook. Entry is free, so it's worth popping by every so often to check out what's new here if you happen to be in the City Hall area. Stay updated on the latest exhibitions via @islands.peninsula on Instagram.

Here's the purr-fect free date idea for cat lovers. Cats in a Floating World is a whimsical feline-focused art exhibition featuring adorable illustrations by 14 Japanese artists. But before you walk through admiring the rows of contemporary framed pieces, you'll come face to face with a giant statue of a kitty dressed in a futuristic outfit, inspired by the significance of cats in ancient voyages. There's also be gachapon minatures of this endearing explorer cat at just $5 per randomised spin. This meow-nificent showcase will be running at the new I.F. Gallery along Tras Street until December 29, 2024. Find out more here.    

There's no shortage of ryokans lining the vast Lake Kawaguchi area, but if you're seeking one with Mount Fuji views, onsens, delectable meals and a convenient location, Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen Hotel Konansou ticks all your boxes and more. It's located some ways off from attractions like the Music Forest Museum and Maple Corridor – which means less tourist bustle, more tranquility – but should you wish to explore those spots, a quick 10 to 15-minute bus ride will get you there in a jiffy. Meanwhile, it's a stone’s throw from the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for sky-high views of the area. It’s also not too far from Kawaguchiko station, but don’t you worry about walking over with luggage in tow, because the hotel offers a convenient free shuttle service to and from the station for all guests. View of Lake Kawaguchi from our room | Photograph: Rachel Yohannan for Time Out We made our booking via Rakuten Travel, opting for a traditional Japanese-style room (Type B – Kohaku) with futons, but there's also a handful of Western-style rooms with beds. Waking up to the view of the lake right before our eyes was unreal – and the private open-air onsen facing the waters was a real treat in the chilly weather. But don’t just stick to the bath in your room, for it’s fully worth experiencing Konansou’s public onsen, where you’ll be graced by the majestic sight of Mount Fuji on a clear day. Unwind in the onsen’s outdoor rock bath, sauna, cold tub and hot jacuzzi, and grab a complimentary pop

Teddy bear-themed restaurant Kumachan Onsen isn’t the only place to enjoy a cutesy hot pot experience in Singapore. Hot on the heels of that comes Singapore’s very first Miffy hot pot pop-up restaurant with adorable Miffy-shaped chicken collagen blocks that melt into a comforting broth. Pick from a whopping six soup bases and a variety of proteins, and top it up with some addictive finger food like tater tots with Taiwan mochi balls. You can even opt for free-flow bubble tea at an additional $3.90. This dining experience opens on October 15, 2024, and will be running at Taiwanese restaurant Wong Fu Fu for an limited period of time. When is the Miffy hotpot pop-up happening in Singapore? This Miffy hotpot restaurant will be around for a temporary period of time starting from October 15, 2024. According to a representative from Wong Fu Fu, this pop-up will run for around three months, so you can expect it to last till mid-January 2025. That said, there might be an extension of the collaboration if there's popular demand. Where is Singapore’s Miffy hotpot restaurant? The Miffy hotpot pop-up will be held at Wong Fu Fu, a Taiwanese restaurant located at 776 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198744. It’s a stone’s throw from the Haji Lane area, with the nearest MRT station being Bugis MRT. Is this Miffy hotpot restaurant halal? Wong Fu Fu is officially halal certified by MUIS, so yes, the Miffy hotpot sets will also be made using halal ingredients. How much is a Miffy hotpot set?  The hot

Offering manicures, facials, lash extensions and eyebrow treatments, Diown Beauty is a one-stop beauty salon for ladies to look and feel their best. What sets it apart from other beauty salons is its sheer spaciousness, along with the amount of care put into creating a comfortable environment for customers seeking the total princess treatment. Case in point? Instead of the usual sight of multiple chairs squeezed in a single row against a wall, the manicure area has just four armchairs in total – massage chairs, actually – each spaced one metre from the other in a two by two formation. As such, customers get to retain a sense of personal space even if the salon is fully booked for mani-pedis. Right in front is a massive 85-inch television to keep you occupied while your digits are getting their new coat of paint. The rest of the treatments are done in private rooms that come with a garden view. If you need to doll up post-treatment before heading out to meet your gals, feel free to make use of the vanity corner complete with LED mirrors. Pop by Diown Beauty’s Instagram page to check out their latest first-timer promos if you’re a new customer.

If you’re someone who wants to jazz up your computer station with a cool new keyboard, pay a visit to The Laboratory by Reformd. Think of The Laboratory’s ‘build a board’ experience as the tech equivalent of a Build-A-Bear Workshop; You basically get full rein in selecting the various components of your keyboard, starting from the base followed by the switches and keycaps. These parts are from a wide range of established brands including Akko, Gateron, Keychron, Monsgeek, and plenty more – mix and match for a unique creation that’s a reflection of your personality. There are all sorts of bases in different dimensions – from 65 percent to full-sized – made of both plastic and metal for different usage needs. As for switches, pick from a whole double-sided wall of clicky, linear, and tactile types. Expect an extensive collection of keycaps here, with designs ranging from food-centric to retro-inspired and cutesy cat- and hamster-themed ones. There’s even a set of mahjong-themed keycaps for fanatics of the Chinese tile game.

Orchard Road has become a lot livelier as of late – foodie mall Taste Orchard, swanky hotels like The Standard, and a 3,000-capacity music venue by Live Nation are just some of the new developments here as part of an ongoing transformation. We can see why it was recently crowned one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.  Mega bazaar Night At Orchard also made a comeback last year after a four-year, pandemic-induced hiatus, and this monthly pop-up will once again be bringing extra colour to our shopping belt’s street in 2025. Similar to before, this year’s editions of Night At Orchard will also be held from Friday to Sunday, 3pm to 10pm, during the last week of each month – with a special focus on "creative and experiential brands", both homegrown and international. The next one is happening this coming weekend, from May 30 to June 1. The bazaar – the only creative night market at Orchard Road – stretches from Ion Orchard past the outdoor area in front of Wisma Atria all the way to Ngee Ann City (Takashimaya), and typically features a whopping 50-over booths each time. Aside from food, retail, and shopping options, there may also be hands-on activities such as art workshops, accessory customisation, and fun game challenges. Previous editions also had gachapon machines and blind boxes for attendees to try their luck with. Photograph: Night At Orchard At certain times of the year, special themes might come into play – past themes include sustainability, summer, Halloween

Gone are the days where KTV joints were dark, nondescript, and filled with the telltale scent of cigarettes. Ever since K.Star opened its first outlet in Singapore, things have taken a fun turn with rooms boasting futuristic neon-lit decor and adorable character designs. The family-friendly chain now has multiple branches under its belt – including those at hotspots like Orchard and the revamped CQ @ Clarke Quay – and a new one has recently been added to the list. K.Star’s latest opening is located at Leisure Park Kallang. Unlike most of its other outlets, it’s not quite central, but it’s a stone’s throw from the Singapore Indoor Stadium and National Stadium – making it a great spot to pre-game with your favourite songs just before a concert. Now, where was this when we needed it during Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour last year? Photograph: K.Star Karaoke The entrance and corridors of this particular K.Star outlet is similar to the rest – sleek, steely, and almost spaceship-like. But its rooms bring a colourful surprise with themes featuring your favourite childhood characters including Donald Duck, Super Mario, Doraemon, Barbie, and the gang from Toy Story. There’s also a yellow polka-dotted room with framed art by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Make your booking in advance to ensure you secure your favourite one! Photograph: K.Star Karaoke It’s not just the themed rooms you can look forward to – prices are wallet-friendly as well. K.Star Leisure Park Kallang has a special

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, the rubber clog sandal trend has made an unexpected comeback – and it’s here to stay. It’s not just the OG brand Crocs that’s in demand; Other footwear brands have also jumped onto the bandwagon to come up with their own version of these chunky, hole-y shoes. Though many have given them hate for being ‘ugly’, fans of such shoes swear by them for their comfort, waterproof nature, and general practicality. If you’re one of those who falls into the latter camp, you’ll have a field day at the first-ever Skechers Foamies concept store in Singapore, which quietly opened its doors at Paya Lebar just recently. This new store has rows and rows of Foamies shoes all in attractive colour-coordinated displays, along with a customisation zone where you can jazz up your shoes with Cali Bits shoe charms – the Skechers equivalent of Crocs’ Jibbitz. Photograph: Skechers Don’t be mistaken, though – the Skechers Foamies collection doesn’t just comprise sculpted clogs. It also includes sandals, slip-ons, and fitted flip flops made from a flexible, cushioned foam material, all sans the holes. These are also available at the concept store, along with other accessories like backpacks, socks, caps, shoe bags and shoe-cleaning materials. The Skechers Foamies concept store is located on the first level of SingPost Centre at #01-113, just a stone’s throw from Paya Lebar MRT station. Don’t confuse this with the Skechers outlet store in the same building, which is located at #01-10

They say good things come with a price, and that can’t be more true for those of us living in Singapore. Though undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world – and one of the safest there is – it’s also one of the most expensive for both locals and expats alike. But that’s not stopping those from elsewhere from trying to live here, whether for work or studies. With our education system being highly lauded, there are plenty of international students vying for places in our top universities and tertiary institutions – despite Singapore being named one of the costliest places in the world for students, according to Remitly. Based on the projected costs for university education and related expenses, the American remittance platform has ranked a list of the world’s most expensive cities for students in 2025, and Singapore scores second place – right under New York City (#1). This is according to Remitly’s estimate of the daily cost of living ($24.34), average monthly rental for a one-bedroom apartment ($3,630.65), visa fees ($67), and average tuition fee ($64,460), all in USD. The other cities in the top 10 list are all cities in the United States of America, with San Francisco (#3), Washington (#6), and Seattle (#10) being some of them. In fact, Singapore is the only city in Asia in the full list of 20, where the only other non-USA cities are Sydney (#18) and London (#19). Here’s a disclaimer that this ranking is likely more accurate for international students rather than local

Singapore’s celebrating her grand 60 this year – and this remarkable milestone is set to be full of fanfare. We’re not just talking about the slew of SG60 deals that let us enjoy local attractions at a steal. This year’s National Day Parade (NDP 2025) is set to be bigger and better than ever, because it’ll be held concurrently at two locations for the first time in history, spanning across both the Padang and Marina Bay – certainly one for the books. While live television screenings will be done as per usual, those who’ve attended the parade will tell you that nothing compares to the heartwarming rush of watching the spectacle in person, alongside thousands of fellow Singaporeans all cheering on our skilled Red Lions and singing their hearts out to beloved National Day tunes together as ‘one people, one nation’. Ready to try your luck? Here’s a guide on how to ballot for your Singapore NDP 2025 tickets so you can witness the National Day Parade on the big stage. Are Singapore’s National Day Parade tickets free?  Yes, NDP tickets are all free-of-charge, but due to space constraints at the venue, not everyone can receive a ticket to attend the show. As such, interested parties will have to ballot for their tickets, which will then be given out purely on the basis of luck. Who can apply for NDP tickets? Only Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) are able to apply for National Day Parade tickets. Non-PRs who are living in Singapore, as well as tourists, are unfortunate

Ever catch a whiff of a particular scent and be instantly reminded of a specific place, person, or moment in time? That’s what Maison Margiela’s Replica collection is all about – scents that evoke memories. While memories are highly personal and unique to each individual, the French perfume label’s fragrances are designed to conjure up universal experiences, and its latest eau de toilette, Afternoon Delight, is one that’ll have you daydreaming about indulgent teatime treats.   Photograph: Maison Margiela   In celebration of this launch, the luxury Parisian brand is hosting a House of Memories pop-up near Bugis with a café this May. Step into the two-storey olfactory playground and try out a range of bestselling scents, not just with conventional perfume testers but through different experiential zones. There’s a cosy fireplace setting featuring By the Fireplace, a spicy and woody blend with Christmas vibes; a bedroom setup full of fluffy white pillows for Lazy Sunday Morning, which mimics the fresh scent of clean laundry; and a mirrored room with deck chairs and sand for Beach Walk. Photograph: Maison Margiela Things get a little more mysterious as you enter a dark room featuring Maison Margiela’s Fantasies EDPs, which arebolder and differentiated from the EDTs with their black bottles. Be transported to a fantasy world with projections of scenes like a lush forest and pastel pink skyscape as you get acquainted with three signature scents: Soul of the Forest, Flying, and

Don your masquerade ball finery – the longest-running musical on Broadway has returned to grace Singapore’s stages after six long years. First debuting at West End in 1986, The Phantom of the Opera by musical maestro Andrew Lloyd Webber has been captivating audiences for decades, with a grand total of close to 14,000 curtain calls completed over its 35-year New York theatre tenure. Surely, this tale possesses a certain allure that keeps pulling both fresh and longstanding fans in – and I wasn’t about to miss out on my first Phantom experience with this new run at Marina Bay Sands’ Sands Theatre. A love triangle, jealousy, manic obsession and elements of horror – Phantom has all the trimmings of a classic gothic romance. It goes without saying that unlike titles like Wicked and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Phantom of the Opera isn’t one of those upbeat feelgood musicals with toe-tapping tunes you’d be itching to dance along to. This dark narrative will grip you in wide-eyed rapture and bated breath – right from the start where the foreboding title track invades the stage with electric guitar riffs, all the way till the bittersweet ending scene where calmness finally settles after the tumult. Photograph: Base Entertainment Asia Set in Paris Opera House circa the 19th Century, Phantom is essentially a musical production within a musical production – its story is centred around an opera troupe and its dancer-turned-soprano-lead Christine Daaé (Grace Roberts), who soon bec

If there’s one thing we know about our fellow Singaporeans, it’s that we don’t hold back when it comes to voicing our displeasure – and the recent Singapore General Election period just further proved that. Many everyday folk have spoken out about issues like housing and cost of living – all very valid concerns – and talked about the future with a certain sense of resignation. But polling season or otherwise, one might consider Singapore a rather unhappy nation just based on the sort of commentary circulating on social media on a day-to-day basis. A new Happy City Index for 2025 seems to suggest otherwise, though. Created by the Institute for Quality of Life, this list scores a total of 200 cities across the world against six benchmarks: Citizens, based on education, inclusivity, and quality of life; Governance, for urban management and citizen participation in decision-making; Environment, with regards to sustainability practices; Economy, based on GDP and growth; Health, in terms of living conditions and physical and mental wellness; and Mobility, which is related to public transport infrastructure. Based on the total scores for the above, Singapore ranks third globally as one of the 30 ‘Gold’ happiest cities in the world, just behind Copenhagen (#1) and Zurich (#2). This is a marked improvement from last year’s ranking in the same Happy City Index, where our Little Red Dot scored 34th globally. Unsurprisingly, plenty of European cities – especially Nordic ones – populate t

Don Don Donki is an unbeatable treasure trove of all the best ready-to-eat and packaged Japanese snacks, but don’t just dive in blindly for your usuals the next time you’re at its Orchard Central outlet. Instead, skip past the entrance and keep your eyes open for Shiroyama, a new snow ice kiosk by Japanese dessert artisan Taizo Shibano, who currently holds the title of the world’s top gelato master. The name ‘Shiroyama’ – which directly translates to ‘white mountain’ – is inspired by Mount Haku (aka Hakusan), an alp that straddles the prefectural borders of Gifu and Ishikawa. Shibano hails from the latter, which is known for its seafood, sake, and sweets (check out our Ishikawa food guide for our tried-and-tested recommendations). Shibano has multiple food awards under his belt, including clinching first place in the most recent Asian Gelato Cup. He’s also the President of the Associazione Giapponese Gelaterie (AGG), a Japanese ice cream association with a special focus on Italian gelato. If that’s anything to go by, his version of kakigori is set to impress. Photograph: JPassport Each of the snow ice bowls comes layered with cereal, soft serve, crunchy balls, flavoured shaved ice, and a dollop of vanilla mousse. There are currently five flavours to choose from – ichigo (strawberry), muscat, ume, tie guan yin, and yuzu pistachio – with two size options of regular (from $8.80) or grande ($15.80). Additional toppings of mini mochi and chocolatey almond croquants can be purcha

Something pretty in pink has landed at New Bahru, and it’s a classic case of love at first sight. Enter none other than the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Café – the British beauty brand’s first-ever pop-up café in Singapore. Taking over pastry café Átipico as well as the open lawn in a wave of rosy hues, this limited-time event marks the launch of the new Pillow Talk Beauty Soulmates Collection in Singapore. Photograph: Charlotte Tilbury For the uninitiated, Pillow Talk is a cult-favourite Charlotte Tilbury range which focuses on universally flattering shades – think nudes, soft and rosy pinks, and deeper burgundies that enhance your features in a natural manner regardless of skin tone. At this romantic themed pop-up, fall in love with four new Pillow Talk Love Effect Lipsticks ($53) which have a pink heart gem adorning their caps; as well as the Pillow Talk Beauty Soulmates Palette ($90), a duo palette with powder blush and finishing powder in a luxe gold heart-shaped compact. Both items are limited edition launches, so you know what to do if you don’t want any regrets. Photograph: Charlotte Tilbury Come hungry because Átipico has come up with a series of exclusive bakes and drinks specially for the pop-up, all of which are in theme with this pink paradise. We highly recommend the Pillow Talk ‘Just Kissed’ Cruffin ($8), a crispy flaky pastry with strawberry and vanilla filling. Those with a penchant for creamier desserts can opt for the airy Pink, Plum & Pout Choux Puff

Let’s be real: not all conserved shophouse rows in Singapore are made equal. On one hand you have those in areas like Duxton, Haji Lane, and Katong/Joo Chiat which mainly house cute brunch spots, art galleries, boutiques and a handful of pet-related stores; On the other spectrum of things are grittier stretches, and some of these appear to come with…less savoury offerings. You know what we’re talking about. If one were to categorise the Prinsep area in either, the latter would be an easy pick. Though this area off Dhoby Ghaut has a couple of perfectly decent eateries – not forgetting Play Nation HQ and The Mind Café for wholesome board games – some of its bars, clubs, and KTV lounges veer towards seedy. The fact that it’s just across the road from the infamous now-defunct Peace Centre probably doesn’t help with the impression. It wouldn’t be your hangout area of choice if you’re for more refined experiences in life, that’s for sure. Photograph: Time Out Yet, nestled unassumingly within one of Prinsep Street’s shophouse units is an elegant new Chinese teahouse called Incloud (巷云端) that’s going wildly viral for its ‘floating stream’ table – a concept that was previously made popular by a modern tea café in Japan. But what’s even better here is that instead of simply having your tea and tidbits sit atop the water, you get the fun of seeing your items meander along the flowing river as mist swirls around. It’s pretty therapeutic just watching the whole ebb and flow of things he

Thanks to its lofty towers standing at over 190 metres high, Marina Bay Sands is home to a couple of sky-scraping dining venues, namely: Celebrity chef restaurant Spago, Italian restaurant and rooftop bar LAVO, and three-in-one restaurant, bar and lounge CÉ LA VI. These all serve Western nosh, but new contender Jin Ting Wan (金蜓湾) is here to bring some fresh variety with its Chinese menu. Perched on the 55th floor of MBS Hotel Tower 1, the 166-seater Cantonese restaurant offers panoramic views of both the city and sea, and is the first and only Chinese fine-dining venue that’s fully developed, owned and operated by Marina Bay Sands itself. Photograph: Marina Bay Sands There’s a clear aura of elegance here with Song Dynasty-inspired interiors in regal shades of blue and gold. The food here is meant to reflect a similar level of refinement, where traditional delights like premium seafood, roast meat, and dim sum are elevated in simple, unpretentious ways that still hold true to their roots.While the full menu isn't out yet, a little birdie told us that some highlights include smoked crispy stuffed chicken wings with wild mushroom and black rice; the indulgent Alaskan king crab steamed with yellow wine; and red spotted grouper poached in superior pumpkin broth (pictured below), an elaborate flower-adorned arrangement that looks like an edible art sculpture.  Photograph: Marina Bay Sands Pair your meal with an extensive selection of Chinese wine – Jin Ting Wan is said to have