Delfina Utomo

Halal fare isn’t difficult to find in Singapore. We’re no longer limited to the same choices of nasi padang and biryani – though there are no doubt some stellar ones on this list that we still return to. Instead, there’s now a wide range of Muslim-friendly establishments serving up cuisines from all over the world. From the city to the heartlands of Singapore, you’ll be able to find American smokehouse barbecue, Xinjiang spicy noodles, Cajun seafood boils, traditional Italian food, and much more. Not to mention, there’s a good range of price points for pretty much any occasion, from casual, fuss-free joints to fancier places worth the splurge. Whether it’s for large group eat-outs or romantic dates, find what you need in our nifty list of the best halal restaurants and cafés in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best halal Japanese restaurants in Singapore and The best burger restaurants in Singapore    

It’s no secret that Singapore is a shopper’s paradise. Whether it’s at glitzy luxury malls or amenity-rich heartland shopping centres, you’ll always catch a daily stream of shoppers flocking to their choice hangout spot – be it to chase the best deals or just beat the heat. It’s no wonder that our malls are constantly being revamped to offer the latest experiences to shoppers here. And despite the limited land area, new malls still occasionally emerge – some of which are featured in this list. We break down the best places to get your dose of retail therapy so keep scrolling to find out more.RECOMMENDED: 48 best shops in Singapore and the 50 best restaurants in Singapore  

When visiting Indonesia, the best things to do in Jakarta aren't always at the top of a tourist's list. The city can never decide on its true population, which hovers somewhere around 11 million but with millions more from satellite cities moving in and out of the capital daily. Jakarta is grimy, hot and hectic, but there’s nowhere on Earth like it. With a bit of patience, good humour and curiosity, the 500-year-old city slowly reveals itself to visitors as a treasure trove of street food, rich heritage and unexpected hidden gems. RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Jakarta and The best time to visit Jakarta

If, like us, you've binged-read the iconic Mr. Midnight book series in your teens, then you'll know how Singaporeans love our local horror stories. In fact, recounting creepy tales and spooky encounters is a great way to bond with people. And somehow, we've got a ton of those in our arsenal here in Singapore. From hair-raising NS (National Service) experiences in Pulau Tekong, to eerie urban legends, we've picked out some entry-level local ghost stories that you ought to know if you live here. This'll surely get you some street cred at that Halloween Party you're going for. RECOMMENDED: 12 local myths and superstitions every Singaporean sho and The ultimate guide to Halloween

It's fascinating that despite being a modern city full of sleek skyscrapers and some of the world's best attractions, Singapore is full of deep-running superstitions that have been passed down from way before our grandparents' time. And as a country that's a melting pot of cultures, we get to be exposed superstitions originating from a whole spectrum of cultural backgrounds, which just adds more spice to our everyday lives. Whether you subscribe to them or otherwise, it's good to be aware of these beliefs, just for funsies. Especially during the spooky Halloween season or Hungry Ghost Festival month. You never know who or what might be lurking in the shadows.   RECOMMENDED: Where to get your fortune told in Singapore and local ghost stories and urban legends to tell this Halloween

Jakarta is quite a beast of a city. It never really sleeps and there’s always something happening somewhere in this sprawling metropolis where tradition meets modernity, and luxury exists alongside charming cultural corners. But when it’s time to rest, the city provides too – in the form of its hotel scene. Whether it’s a business stay, a luxe weekend, or a fun getaway, here are some hotels to be checking out – and into. RECOMMENDED: The absolute best hotels in Asia right now The best places to visit in Indonesia

Everyday is a fine day for a burger. The way its juices trickle down the hand as you chomp down on a fluffy bun loaded with meat (we have vegan options too) and other decadent toppings – it's a divine and layered experience. Our quest for the best burger in Singapore is eternal, but here are some places we're really digging at the moment. RECOMMENDED: The best pizza joints in Singapore and The best steak restaurants in Singapore

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition. Call it a colonial hangover, but it makes for the perfect occasional splurge and a great way to spend the afternoon catching up with old friends. After all, what’s not to love about hitting pause and nibbling on delectable sweets and savouries on a plush, comfortable sofa? Here's where to go to raise your pinkies and clink glasses. RECOMMENDED: The most Instagrammable cafés in Singapore and the best cafés in Singapore for dessert

Nothing beats getting your nose stuck in a paperback. These bookstores line their walls and displays with a wide range of print publications including secondhand gems and specialty books and magazines to niche readers. Besides endless shelves of hard copies, these are also the best spots to check out the works of local authors and the literary scene in Singapore. Time to refresh that reading list and get lost in the pages of your new favourite book! RECOMMENDED: The best independent and alternative cinemas in Singapore and The best hidden cafés in Singapore for a quiet brunch sesh    

Some folks are capable of heading to bed with an empty stomach, but seeing how you stumbled upon this article, you probably aren't one of them. Good news for us, because living in Singapore means we have no reason to go hungry ever, whether it's 1pm or 1am. If you're searching for places which serve up substantial and delicious grub to cure your late-night hunger pangs, look no further than this list of eateries that open deep into the night. These joints operate well past the usual 9.30pm or 10pm closing times, and some are even open for 24 hours. Whether it's a post OT-meal or a casual weekend supper with friends, saunter down to these joints and you won't walk away hangry.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore after dark and The best free things to do in Singapore at night

As the number of skyscrapers grows in Singapore, so does the number of rooftop restaurants, bars and gardens. And they all have one thing in common: a bird's eye view of the electric city skyline. Whether you're looking out across the Marina Bay with the cool breeze in your hair or admiring the twinkling lights of the cityscape with a cocktail in your hand, the stunning views are reminders of just how beautiful the city is. Get ready to fall in love with the city all over again from the best vantage points. RECOMMENDED: The best rooftop gardens in Singapore and the best rooftop bars in Singapore Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok!

Singapore has a ton of good cafés – we’re not denying that. But with snaking brunch queues and at least 30-minute wait times, it’s hard to enjoy a coffee when you’re spending a substantial portion of your weekend waiting to chope a table. We’ve rounded up the best unknown cafés in Singapore for a quiet and crowdless dining experience – some don’t even have seats, so you can have your coffee at home, or head over to the nearest park for a picnic date. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best cafés in Singapore and The best cafés in Singapore for dessert

You’ll be right at the heart of the city at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski. As one of the city’s most iconic hotels, it’s strategically located near the famous Bundaran HI monument and Grand Indonesia Mall – so you can count on having incredible views of the city’s skyline. With plenty of restaurants and bars (five!) under one roof and direct access to Grand Indonesia Mall, you pretty much never have to leave the premises. Satisfied customers return to the hotel because of the service staff and their attention to detail. 

Looking for a boutique hotel that’s less about the hustle and more about tranquillity? The Dharmawangsa Jakarta is a hidden oasis. Located in the upscale Kebayoran Baru neighbourhood, it exudes old-world charm with traditional Javanese architecture and lush tropical gardens. Spacious rooms start at 66 square metres, all with a private balcony attached, going up to unique two-storey townhouse suites and an extravagant presidential suite. Coupled with a spa and an outdoor pool surrounded by greenery, this hotel offers a peaceful escape in the midst of Jakarta’s chaos.

Housed in a 1920s Art Deco building in the leafy neighbourhood of Menteng, this hotel exudes a timeless charm for travellers looking to experience old-world Jakarta. Rooms are spacious with separate areas and rooms if you prefer a more luxurious stay. There are also plenty of fine dining options and a rooftop pool with sweeping city views. While it is a peaceful retreat, the central location means that it is still close to the city’s major attractions.

Who says budget hotels has to be dingy hostels and windowless rooms? Artotel in Thamrin is quirky, artsy and most importantly, budget-friendly. Every corner of this hotel is bursting with contemporary art, and its boutique charm blends seamlessly with Jakarta’s urban vibe. Each room also features different themes, art, and decor, so you can bet on having a unique experience. Plus, its location near nightlife spots, cultural sites and right smack in front of Sarinah – an iconic local mall – makes it perfect for travellers looking to explore the heart of Jakarta.

The Langham in the bustling Sudirman Central Business District is where opulence meets modern Jakarta energy, offering a stylish stay. Picture yourself waking up to sweeping views of modern skyscrapers and then dipping in at the rooftop infinity pool. Hungry? Indulge at T'ang Court, the Michelin-starred restaurant that promises a dining experience to remember. From the plush rooms to the world-class spa, every corner of The Langham radiates sophistication for the discerning traveller.

The Sari Pacific Jakarta stands tall as a true icon in the city’s skyline. Built in the 1970s, this hotel has long been a symbol of Jakarta's evolving identity, balancing its storied history with contemporary updates. Situated along the bustling Thamrin Road, you're right in the heart of the action, a stone’s throw away from landmarks like Plaza Indonesia, the Monas, and Grand Indonesia. With its classic architecture and modern amenities, staying at Sari Pacific feels like stepping into a piece of Jakarta’s rich cultural tapestry while enjoying the best of luxury hospitality.

If you’re seeking a boutique, home-like experience in the city, Lamandau House is a hidden gem. Tucked away in the upscale residential area of Kebayoran Baru, this charming property blends modern design with an intimate, cosy atmosphere. Its stylish, mid-century modern-meets-industrial interiors offer a calming retreat from Jakarta’s busy streets, while the personalised service makes you feel instantly at home. With only a few rooms, each thoughtfully – and uniquely – designed with local touches, the hotel offers a peaceful and private stay. There’s also a garden café on the grounds where you can enjoy a coffee or curl up with a book.

If quirky luxury and unique design appeal to you, The Orient is a hotel unlike any other. With interiors designed by architect and interior designer Bill Bensley, this hotel boasts dramatic aesthetics, combining modern touches with Indonesian heritage – just check out the bed headboards handmade with gorgeous batik fabric. If you dream of spending a night in a museum (but with a touch of luxe), this one nails the brief. Located near the Sudirman business district, it’s ideal for design lovers and travellers seeking a unique luxury experience. Did we also say it has two pools?

This hip, boutique hotel is perfect for the style-conscious and trendy traveller. Kosenda Hotel is known for its beautiful interiors and cosy vibe. While the rooms may be compact, they are tastefully designed and super comfortable. And if you’re settling in here for your trip to Jakarta, the hotel is home to some great eateries, including a rooftop lounge where you can check out the skyline while sipping wines, beers, or spirits, and an in-house restaurant which serves delicious Indonesian and Peranakan fare. Kosenda’s proximity to iconic landmarks like Plaza Indonesia, Museum Nasional, and Ismail Marzuki Park Jakarta Arts Centre also makes it a great base for exploring the city.

Dining at Chu and Co feels like entering someone’s private backyard. Potted plants and random tchotchkes are strewn across the adjacent outdoor patio, guests are happily sitting on the pavement sipping coffee, munching on fresh bakes and in deep conversation.  Orders are made at the counter which has a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Grab a coffee or beverage to go – there's dirty chai and even tepache on the menu if you want something different from your usual latte or cold brew – but the highlight is the warm bakes (both sweet and savoury) that are made fresh daily. If you love surprises, there's always something new when you return. We tried a whole range of sourdough buns – from cauliflower, cheese and pepper to the classic cinnamon buns, and even a black garlic and chocolate piece they were experimenting on – and that $5 to $6 price tag on the buns is well justified. It had a great crust on the outside, fluffy and soft on the outside and versatile to accommodate the most intense of fillings and toppings, like spam and cheese even. If being out in the sun gets too intense, head to the sister concept Chulato (it's on the same stretch) for some creamy scoops of gelato. Or just order another cold brew and head back out to your makeshift picnic spot on the patio – wear sunnies or a hat if you're thinking of dining here. (Chulato is temporarily closed)

They say don't play with your food – but that's exactly what happens in chef Bjorn Shen's gastro-playground Small's. The last time he did a successful run of a pizza omakase, and this time carbs are once again the star of the show. The most recent run at Small's celebrates bread sushi. Confused? Well, it's exactly what it is: sushi but the main carbohydrate here is bread. And such good bread too – using high hydration, long-aged dough that is given different textures and tastes, from different cooking methods like high-temperature baking, low-temperature baking, binchotan grilling, deep-frying and steaming. Creativity comes through in every dish of this multi-course meal (three snacks, up to 10 “bread-sushi”, one hotpot and two sweets). Some highlights include the akami where lean tuna, heart of palm (shoot of young coconut tree) and sambal matah (raw sambal of Balinese origin) is served on bread, the engawa course which is aburi engawa and green papaya strips stewed in lime juice, fish sauce and sugar. The course is served on your palm and then frozen ankimo (monkfish liver) is grated over the top. Bonus points for the hotpot course – Bjorn sometimes hides a "surprise" in someone's bowl. Spoiler: it's a thinly sliced, phallic-shaped daikon.  It's moments like these that makes dining at Small's feel a lot like an informal dinner in a friend's cool apartment. There are Borat posters on the wall, a tapestry of the movie Step Brothers in the corner, and plenty of pop culture ref

If you ever wanted to experience being the main character in a period drama, Isabel is the setting for you. Besides the hand-painted wallpaper, delicate herringbone floors and knotted silk rugs to set the mood, the stunning pink onyx bar counter is the main feature of Maxwell Reserve’s signature bar. It’s easy to feel in the mood for love when you’re seated on a red velvet banquette at dusk.  All the wines, champagnes, spirits and liquors on the menu have been handpicked specially from around the world. Isabel is also known for its selection of cocktails and after-dinner digestifs. Choose from original classics to modern interpretations of drinks. Each drink is handcrafted and designed to complement Isabel’s interiors and ethos. Looking for something besides cocktails and drinking? Isabel also offers afternoon tea sessions (from $89). The tea selection is curated to pair with finger food and snacks that range from sweet to savoury. Tuck into sandwiches, pastries and tarts. Don’t forget to try the freshly baked traditional English scones served with clotted cream and preserves, and finished with an exclusive selection of Beluga caviar and a shot of vodka. 

Update on July 22: The F1 Singapore Grand Prix has dropped its second entertainment lineup for the race weekend. Joining rock band Green Day, boy band Westlife and electronic dance star Marshmello are pop group Black Eyed Peas, rapper-singer The Kid Laroi, R&B act TLC and alternative band Suede.  Black Eyed Peas, known for their hits such as Where Is The Love and Let's Get It Started, will be performing twice during the weekend. They will perform at the Padang Stage on October 1 and the Wharf Stage on October 2. The Kid Laroi will be bringing his enigmatic live show to the Padang Stage on October 2,  while TLC will perform at the Hard Stage on October 2. Suede, known for their classics such as Beautiful Ones, will play at the Wharf Stage on October 1.  Other artistes performing at the F1 event include home-grown acts such as rapper Shigga Shay, Inch, Seinabo Sey and When Chai Met Toast. The Circuit Park will also feature artworks from talented Singaporean artists such as Hafi and 8EyedSpud.  More acts are expected to be announced in the coming weeks so stay tuned.   Photograph: Sam Bloxham/Singapore GP We already know the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix is making a comeback this year – with the first wave of tickets selling out almost instantly – but there's a lot of speculation and anticipation about the entertainment line-up for this year's Grand Prix. The Singapore GP has just confirmed the first three official acts you can look forward to this year: p

Nifty Fifty is a new series where the Time Out Singapore team spends $50 any way they want around town – and we share the experience. Whether it's a secret joint for a boozy night out, a budget (but ace) omakase place or an interesting item we've been eyeing at the shops, we let you in on the cool stores, eateries, places and activities you should be spending at.  There's no science to show that crystals really work, but there's no denying that these fancy rocks are really pretty. So much mysticism (and scepticism) surrounds crystals but hey, if it makes you feel good then why not. After all, I've already made the decision to spend my $50 on things I want, not need so I will need to stock up on crystals that promote courage, creativity, groundedness, positivity, happiness and self-love.  Photograph: Delfina Utomo Verdict: Going to the store itself is a treat. I love the welcoming vibes, the crowd is pretty diverse too – there was a regular customer picking up some amethyst and a kid who was choosing shark teeth (yep, you can get it here) while the parents were intrigued by the quartz clusters. The lady who runs the store and hands out the baskets for you to go pick and mix with is constantly walking around the store and helping out anyone with questions. Sometimes I get her to analyse my picks and she'll tell you what you need instead or what to add – she'll sneak in some freebies if you're a regular. Afterwards, the crystals will be packed neatly and then cleansed in the

The official export ban of fresh chicken from Malaysia to Singapore has officially begun. The news broke just about a week ago and triggered a nationwide panic attack. Some dramatic reactions to the ban – people mourning the dethronement of chicken rice as a national dish, and sharing a list of all the chicken rice dishes that Singaporeans love… that we can’t enjoy anymore – yup, this piece of news has devastated the nation. It isn’t the first time that Singapore has experienced commodity shortages. A quick flashback: toilet paper shortages at the start of the pandemic, then masks and PPE kits at the height of the pandemic, and most recently, the potato shortage largely due to the war in Ukraine. Now, it’s fresh chicken. Photograph: Thayut Sutheeravut/ Shutterstock Sure, some of the panic is justified  Chicken is central to so many of our favourite dishes: the iconic chicken rice, nasi lemak, curry chicken…the list goes on. And we love our affordable hawker culture, so when the price of these dishes go up so much as a cent – it hurts. It doesn’t help that predicted food shortages and an impending recession only spells more price hikes and more strapped wallets in the future. Cue the doom and gloom. Then there’s the whole debate of fresh versus frozen. Singaporeans are a fussy – okay, discerning – bunch. Many insist that fresh chicken has far superior taste and texture when compared to its frozen counterpart. So when a third of the nation’s fresh bird supply is held in a cho

The government will be relaxing more restrictions from April 26 after the Ministry of Health (MOH) made the statement on April 22 that Singapore will lower its Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (Dorscon) from orange to yellow level next Tuesday. The relaxed restrictions show a huge change from where we were two years ago and include not having a limit on group sizes and the green light for all workers to return to workplaces and offices.  No more limit on group sizes Let's just say, gatherings and parties are truly back on the social calendar. There will be no limit on group sizes or visitors per household. Masks on or off? Masks are still required in indoor settings and optional when outdoors – although it is recommended when it gets crowded. Safe distancing is longer required – but of course, please be respectful of space.  Slowing down on TraceTogether The use of TraceTogether and SafeEntry to be stepped down gradually. Most venues will longer require check-ins except for large-scale events. It's back to commuting to the office All workers may return to the workplace from next Tuesday. This is an increase from the present limit of 75 percent of those who can work from home. Workers will also be allowed to remove masks in the workplace, as long as they are not interacting physically with others and are not in customer-facing areas. Capacity limits for venues There will longer be capacity limits for venues except for nightlife venues where there is dancing where a

Tickets for the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2022 will be available for public sale at 10am from April 13 onwards, as announced by race organiser Singapore Grand Prix (GP). The event is set to take place at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from September 30 to October 2.  A spokesperson for Singapore GP said, "The popularity of Formula 1 has been skyrocketing thanks in part to the thrilling season last year which saw a close battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, as well as the much-followed Drive to Survive documentary series on Netflix. The excitement is set to continue this year with the resurgence of Ferrari. Their incredible performance at the opening race this season, as well as those of Haas and Alfa Romeo will keep fans at the edge of their seats." Here’s what we know about the 2022 Singapore Grand Prix The event is set to take place at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from September 30 to October 2 after a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The tickets include three-day grandstand offerings, priced at $298 to $1,288 as well as combination packages ranging from $698 to $1,088. The event is also made to be accessible to everyone including the specially abled. Single-day tickets for wheelchair accessible areas for people in wheelchairs and their companions are also available at $38, $88 and $128. "We have had overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2022 since the contract renewal announcement in January, with fantastic

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will give an update on Singapore's Covid-19 situation in an address to the nation at 11am, with the multi-ministry taskforce following up with a press conference of their own. There's been a lot of speculation as to what he will be announcing today. Perhaps more relaxed restrictions and safe management measures? Or no more VTLs? Or even an increase in numbers for social gatherings? We'll bring the important takeaways as we go along.  After providing an overview of the situation, Prime Minister Lee runs through the impact of the Delta and Omicron waves. Daily cases have been coming down, and daily infections were halved in about three weeks.  He mentioned that “our population has stronger immunity” and that “the pressure is now easing”. Social gatherings will increase to ten people But one-metre distancing between groups will still be observed. Up to 75 percent of employees who WFH will be able to return to their workplace. There will also be an increased capacity limit for events.  Wearing masks in outdoor settings is optionalWearing masks outdoors will be optional but indoor settings will still be compulsory. This new rule will start from March 29, Tuesday. Opening land travel between Singapore and MalaysiaThis is still in discussion between the two parties but Singapore and Malaysia have agreed to start working towards resuming full air and land travel for vaccinated people. Fourth vaccine dose?Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said that the Minis

UPDATE – March 23  In a far cry from previous Ramadan bazaars at Geylang Serai, this year's affair will see 40 stalls comprising only eight food stalls and 32 non-food stalls.  Initial reports about its return already hinted that the bazaar this year would be a scaled-down affair to control crowds and prevent the spread of Covid-19. Still, we can't help a tinge of disappointment that the bazaar is not returning at full capacity – previous events were exciting and upbeat affairs with over 100 stalls and loads of snacks and interesting bites.  To keep up the festive mood, the Ramadan bazaar this year will be fashioned after a fairytale blossom garden theme. Stalls will be transformed into a whimsical garden, complete with lush colours and floral design elements.  We encourage you to head down to show your support to the participating stalls anyway. Just remember to observe prevailing Safe Management Measures to keep yourself and others safe. Virtual Reality Capability technology will also be in place to help control crowds and keep things moving seamlessly – so expect QR codes, e-menus, queue card systems and more.  What do you think about the scaled-down Ramadan bazaar? And what food stalls are you hoping to see? March 11 Missed the iconic Ramadan bazaar in Geylang Serai where you would get your fix of Ramly burgers, roti john and keropok lekor? The popular Ramadan night market will make a comeback this year – after a two-year hiatus – but there will be some tweaks.  At the m

Nifty Fifty is a new series where the Time Out Singapore team spends $50 any way they want around town – and we share the experience. Whether it's a secret joint for a boozy night out, a budget (but ace) omakase place or an interesting item we've been eyeing at the shops, we let you in on the cool stores, eateries, places and activities you should be spending at.  This week, our designer Kashmira spent $50 on a motion sensor pottery wheel from Toys R Us ($34.99).  Verdict: Though it is a kid's toy, I think this is a pretty interesting one – and a far level up from Barbies and all of that. Plus at $34.99, it's pretty much a steal. The clay is provided, along with a couple of basic pottery tools (but in plastic) and a variety of colours for painting once your masterpiece has fully dried. The only thing missing is the kiln of course, but hey, it is a toy for kids.  Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri Buy it now at any Toys R Us store or online.

If we look back in the last year, Singapore today is such a different place – and it feels different too. The streets are much busier, borders are reopening, and dining out – and even hanging out – is pretty much back. Even with cases still in the community, it feels like we're learning to live around it. Like really, really live. There's definitely a sense of positivity and hope in the air.  If that doesn't make you fall in love with the city again, then we want to know what will. Every year, we quiz thousands of city-dwellers in our annual Time Out Index Survey, telling us which bits of the city they loved. Last year, 62 percent of respondents voted Singapore as the greenest city and zero percent listed us as a dirty city – making us the cleanest and greenest city in the world. But are we really surprised about it? We want to know how you feel about life in Singapore right now, and the things we don't know – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Take the Time Out 2022 Index survey to help us decide what makes city life great, even in the new norm. The survey takes about ten minutes to complete and you remain completely anonymous. Be honest and let us know the things you love – and loathe – about the city.  Take the Time Out Index now 

Whatever you think you know about Singapore, you better start making room for a whole new set of discoveries. Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege to rediscover our own backyard and reignite our appreciation for the city – and this has resulted in the Love Local guidebook.  Together with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), we've set out on a quest to dig deep and uncover hidden gems and also talked to interesting personalities and stakeholders in various neighbourhoods about their personal stories. We saw innovative placemaking happen, the greening of spaces with rich histories and heritage, the importance of community in shaping history – these moments made us reflect on how our actions affect the future of these spaces, and our city. Pick up a copy now or head to the Love Local website to check out what we have discovered. The next time you go out on a walk, remember to slow down to notice jagged alleyways, colourful tiles of shophouses and ancient heritage trees on your hikes – and much more. Happy rediscovering! Check out the Love Local website here Here's where to pick a copy up: Time Out Singapore HQ – 39A Amoy Street, Singapore 069865The Intan – 69 Joo Chiat Terrace, Singapore 427231Indian Heritage Centre – 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924Aloha Sea Sports Centre – 1212 ECP, E2 Area E Car Park, Singapore 449886Tong Mern Sern – 51 Craig Rd, Singapore 089689Artichoke – 161 Middle Rd, Singapore 188978My Community – Commonwealth Drive, #01-388 Block 46-3, Sin

Here's another spot to add to the list of places that don't look and feel like Singapore – but there's a catch. You have to get up early. Really, really early. Just like us.  Yet another impressive park connector in Singapore – we've just seen the wonders of Changi Bay Point in the past few months – the Ulu Sembawang Park Connector cuts through the nature reserve to link the Woodlands (SLE) Park Connector to the Mandai Park Connector.  The park connector gives you great views of the sunrise but if you wake up a little earlier you'll find yourself in a misty wonderland that is both breathtaking and surreal. Soak up the purplish-pink skies and the sounds of birds flitting around.  Start the journey from the closest MRT station, Woodlands South Station, where you will have to walk for about 15 minutes along Woodlands Ave 1 and then turn right to Woodlands Ave 12 where you follow the Woodlands PCN until you reach the entrance of the Ulu Sembawang Park Connector. The connector starts at Seletar Expressway and ends at Mandai Road, and is also the route for both cyclists and trekkers to take to get to the popular Mandai T15 trail.  But if you're thinking of checking out the trail this week, here's a heads up for you: the Ulu Sembawang Park Connector is closed for upgrading works till March 23. But for now, enjoy the views we took.  READ MOREWoodlands Town Park East: A green gem that offers refreshing views from the top of the hillBring some zen to your day at these new therapeu

It's official – starting April 1, Malaysia is set to fully reopen its borders as part of the country's process of moving into the endemic phase. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that what this means is that international travellers entering Malaysia would only need to have valid travel documents to enter and exit the country. On top of that, Malaysians can also travel freely to other countries with similar open borders.  Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to undergo any quarantine procedures. They will only need to take a Covid-19 reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test two days before departure and a professional Covid-19 rapid test kit-antigen (RTK-Ag) test within 24 hours after arrival in Malaysia.  For countries that have not fully reopened their borders such as neighbouring countries Indonesia and Singapore, Malaysians can utilise the vaccinated travel lanes (VTLs) that had been agreed on between Putrajaya and the relevant countries, the prime minister said.  As for matters of the Causeway, the current land crossing arrangement in place is the land VTL scheme, meaning travellers can book bus tickets on either Transtar or Causeway Link. So far, both Singapore and Malaysia authorities have also not revealed any plans to allow drivers to use the Causeway.