Dewi Nurjuwita is a writer and editor based in Southeast Asia. Her expertise lies within the realms of travel, arts, design, lifestyle, and sustainability. 

As she works remotely across the region, you might find her sipping cà phê sữa đá in Saigon’s hidden cafes or exploring islands off the coast of Bali. 

Reach out to her at hello@dewinurjuwita.me

Dewi Nurjuwita

Dewi Nurjuwita

Contributor, Time Out Asia

Articles (246)

The best spas in Bali for blissful massages and treatments

The best spas in Bali for blissful massages and treatments

A beach vacation isn’t truly complete without a blissful massage, and the Island of the Gods is renowned for offering just that. Balinese massage, with its full-body, deep-tissue techniques rooted in traditional healing, is a must-try for any visitor to the island.  Whether you're after rejuvenating body treatments, cutting-edge wellness therapies, or a classic Balinese massage, the island's spa scene delivers a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence. From Seminyak’s Insta-famous spots to hidden sanctuaries perched above Jimbaran Bay, these are the spas where you’ll find the ultimate escape for a radiant, post-vacation glow. READ MORE: Best luxury hotels in Bali and Best cafés in Bali to sip, snack, and soak up the island vibes
Travel experts' guide to the best places to visit in Asia in 2025

Travel experts' guide to the best places to visit in Asia in 2025

There's no way to travel all of Asia in one lifetime, but you can damn well bet that we're going to try. From bustling city destinations to wild island paradises, there's so much on the regional travel menu that we'd gladly spend our annual leave on in 2025 – and if you're having a hard time choosing, then you're in the right place. We talked to our Time Out editors and travel contributors in Asia to suss out what's on their radar for the coming year. These destinations are emerging hotspots: long overlooked or previously hard to get to, but now on the map for travellers searching for alternatives to well-trodden destinations like Bali, Tokyo, and Bangkok. Many on the list have become better-connected too – all the more reason to buy that plane ticket in 2025. And it goes without saying: they all have spectacular natural attractions, rich culture, and fantastic dining scenes to satisfy the pickiest of travellers. Here's Time Out's list of the best places to visit in Asia in 2025.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox. READ MORE: The most spectacular places to visit in Asia and The most gorgeous islands in Asia 
The best hotels for a staycation in Singapore

The best hotels for a staycation in Singapore

It’s always nice being a tourist in your own city, and treating yourself to a staycation is the best way to get away from the daily grind. Luckily, Singapore is filled with plenty of fantastic hotels to choose from, so it's easy to have that much-needed quick getaway without jetting abroad. From chic boutique hotels, to luxurious heritage accommodations, as well as swanky loft-style spaces, these comfy hotels in Singapore will give you the best night's sleep. Plus, with stellar facilities and amenities like infinity pools, bars, and sleek lounges, you're bound to stay entertained throughout. RECOMMENDED: Best rooftop bars in Singapore and 101 things to do in Singapore
The best temples in Bali

The best temples in Bali

We’ll let you in on a fun fact: there are over 10,000 temples in Bali. After all, it’s called the Island of the Gods for a reason. The island is steeped in spiritual history, and its temples are the perfect window for visitors hoping to learn more. Whether perched on cliffs, nestled by lakes, or surrounded by lush jungle, these ancient sites are all just as impressive. Each temple has its own story to tell, from the cliff-hugging Tanah Lot to the sacred waters of Tirta Empul, where locals still flock for purification rituals. Get ready to swap your flip-flops for sarongs - here are some of Bali’s most stunning spiritual landmarks. READ MORE: The best resorts in Bali for a tropical escape and The most beautiful waterfalls in Bali
The 16 best Singapore hotels, for Garden by the Bay, the Merlion and more

The 16 best Singapore hotels, for Garden by the Bay, the Merlion and more

You won't run out of hotel options in Singapore, especially with the increasing number of new additions. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, the hotels in this list are just a quick walk, train ride or shuttle away from the city's best attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa Island. These are the best hotels to check into for the weekend, whether you're looking to spend a weekend by the sea or some quiet time with your significant other. There are also plenty of restaurant and bar options around to make sure you never go hungry – even if it's way past midnight. The city never sleeps, after all. RECOMMENDED: The best Singapore attractions to visitThe best rooftop bars in SingaporeAirport hotels in SingaporeThe best luxury hotels in Singapore This guide was written by Southeast Asia-based writer Dewi Nurjuwita. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best luxury five-star hotels in Singapore

The best luxury five-star hotels in Singapore

Time and time again, Singapore is dubbed one of the richest cities in the world. For that, we can thank a particular Kevin Kwan novel depicting the country’s wealthiest made-up families, wrapped up by a scene filmed on the rooftop of Marina Bay Sands. Other than MBS, the city-state is also home to numerous luxury hotels for the bougiest of travellers or loved-up locals planning a surprise staycation. Some people call it over-indulgence. We say, “why the heck not?” Besides, certain occasions just call for a treat yourself day. Whoever said money can’t buy you happiness probably hasn't had breakfast served while basking in a private pool. Check into these top luxury hotels in Singapore and enjoy the finer things in life – butler service, in-room jacuzzi tubs and luxurious spas included. RECOMMENDED: The best hotels for a staycation in Singapore The best boutique and shophouse hotels in SingaporeThe best hotels in SingaporeThe 101 best things to do in Singapore This guide was written by Southeast Asia-based writer Dewi Nurjuwita. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore

The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore

Singapore's most popular attractions may include a boat-like tower with an infinity pool and two durian-looking domes and other impressive manmade structures but you'll be surprised by the amount of greenery you can find within the city-state (and surrounding offshore islands). The best way to discover this? Hiking.  Put on your best trekking shoes and go on foot to explore these hidden (and not so hidden) trails around the island. But before you get on the best hiking trails in Singapore, it might be best to slap on some sunscreen – and it wouldn't hurt to bring along some mosquito repellent. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's offshore islands and the best secret and hidden parks in Singapore
The best resorts in Bali for the perfect tropical escape

The best resorts in Bali for the perfect tropical escape

When you’re in need of some rest and rejuvenation, a vacation in Bali is always a good idea. But with plenty, and we mean plenty, of accommodation options on the tropical island, where to stay can be a tough decision to make.  These resorts offer the perfect combination of luxury, seclusion, and an authentic island experience. From cliffside sanctuaries with sweeping ocean views to hidden retreats in lesser-known regions like Amed and Northwest Bali, we’ve curated a list of the best ones to consider.  Whether you're after private villas perched high in the mountains, wellness-focused getaways near pristine beaches, or stylish retreats designed for a digital detox, there’s something for every type of traveller. Get ready to discover the ultimate spots for a tropical hideaway on the Island of the Gods. READ MORE: The essential guide to Bali for first-time visitors and The best things to do in Bali
The best luxury hotels In Bali

The best luxury hotels In Bali

Picture this: You’re on a tropical vacay in Bali, admiring breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from the hotel pool as you knock down a bottle of Bintang. If your idea of an ideal getaway is a hassle-free stay where every detail is taken care of, then you might want a peek at our curated list of the best luxury hotels in Bali.  Whether you’re seeking the laid-back surf culture of Canggu or a tranquil retreat in Ubud’s jungles, there’s one for every mood. From cutting-edge design to authentic Balinese touches, these stunning hotels offer a mix of modern luxury and cultural immersion that’s truly one of a kind.RECOMMENDED: The best beach clubs in Bali for epic parties by the sea and the 14 most unforgettable beaches in Bali
The most beautiful waterfalls in Bali

The most beautiful waterfalls in Bali

Bali might be best known for its beaches and rice terraces, but venture a bit further inland and you'll discover an abundance of breathtaking waterfalls that are equally worth your time.  From secluded spots hidden deep in the jungle to easily accessible cascades near Ubud, these waterfalls in Bali offer a refreshing escape from the island’s bustling tourist hubs. Whether you're looking to swim in a cool, natural pool, snap a perfect photo in a canyon, or simply check off Tegenungan Waterfall from your bucket list, there’s one for every kind of traveller. Here’s our pick of the seven most beautiful waterfalls in Bali that will leave you in awe. Disclaimer: We’d recommend checking Google Maps before heading down to these waterfalls on the day itself. Religious events like Nyepi and Hari Raya Kuningan may affect opening hours. RECOMMENDED: An essential guide to Bali for first-time visitors and The best resorts in Bali
The best art jamming studios in Singapore

The best art jamming studios in Singapore

Creating art is a therapeutic way to destress after a hectic day at work or school – or a bad year. So it's very apt that social art jamming has been on the rise worldwide, with more studios popping up all over Singapore. After all, you can make new like-minded acquaintances while still being responsible and keeping a safe distance. Thinking of a fun, social and creative way to spend your weekend? Art jamming is a great family bonding activity, or a second date idea that gives you the chance to show off your top-notch art and craft skills. These studios come equipped with an arsenal of art tools and blank canvases, so all you have to do is turn up and let your creative juices flow.  RECOMMENDED: Best public art in Singapore and the best museums to visit in Singapore.   
The best city hotels in Singapore

The best city hotels in Singapore

Not to brag, but Singapore has some of the most impressive skylines in the world. And we're home to world-class hotels located in towering, state-of-the-art skyscrapers dreamt up by illustrious architects. Some people may prefer having a staycation at the beach or secluded spots around town; but if you're a city person, you might want to be right in the heart of the action. Book a staycation at one of these hotels right in Singapore's city centre and you'll be a walking distance away from the best art galleries, cocktail bars and restaurants.   RECOMMENDED: The best secluded and quiet hotels in Singapore and the ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods

Listings and reviews (48)

Karma Spa

Karma Spa

Bio-hacking, the practice of optimising your body’s chemistry and physiology to boost energy and vitality, is more than just a wellness trend - it’s a movement. And there’s no better place to experience it than Karma Spa, a state-of-the-art bio-hacking space set against the backdrop of Bali’s breathtaking southern coast. With an infrared sauna, ice bath, ocean shower, and warm soaking pool, you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the most spectacular environments in the world to explore this cutting-edge therapy.
Tamiang Spa

Tamiang Spa

Tamiang Spa offers exceptional value without compromising on quality, making it one of the most affordable yet enriching spa experiences in Bali. With 60-minute massages starting at just Rp 100,000, this unassuming day spa embodies the essence of Ubud. Its treatment rooms, nestled among lush greenery with the soothing scent of incense wafting through the air, create a tranquil escape. The extensive menu features everything from massages and reflexology to healing treatments and facials, all performed with time-honoured techniques and enhanced by Sensatia Botanicals products.
Glo Spa

Glo Spa

If you're chasing that perfect beach vacation glow, Glo Spa has you sorted. With five locations across Bali - Sanur, Canggu, Echo Beach, Nusa Lembongan, and Seminyak - this trendy spa is a go-to for travellers looking for a mix of indulgence and essential grooming. Along with its signature massages and body treatments, Glo Spa offers an extensive range of beauty services, from manicures and pedicures to waxing, lash and brow tints, lash perms, and spray tans. It’s a true one-stop shop for all your vacation beauty needs. And yes, it's also where you can get that dreamy, sun-kissed balayage for mermaid hair.
The Sacred River Spa

The Sacred River Spa

Beauty is skin deep, and it rings ever so true at The Sacred River Spa. Located in Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan along the serene banks of the Ayung River, this holistic spa taps into the mystical energy of the river to provide a deeply restorative Balinese experience. Treatments here go beyond the surface, blending spiritual practices with therapeutic massage to bring you into alignment - body, mind, and soul. The goal is simple: to foster harmony within by tuning into the sacred rhythms of nature.
Bodyworks Spa

Bodyworks Spa

Bodyworks Spa is a Bali icon, and if it hasn’t popped up on your Instagram feed yet, it’s only a matter of time. With its blush-pink walls and Moroccan-inspired arches, this stunning space feels like a slice of Marrakesh in Seminyak. It's no wonder the spa doubles as a popular spot for photoshoots and creative projects. But beyond the picture-perfect setting, Bodyworks is known for its range of indulgent treatments, from rejuvenating massages and facials to more modern therapies like an infrared sauna and ice bath experience.
Spring Spa Canggu

Spring Spa Canggu

This boutique spa from New Zealand may be situated right in the heart of Canggu, but once you step inside, the serene vibe sweeps you away. With island beats playing softly, a fully stocked bar, and private treatment rooms tucked within a lush garden, it’s easy to see why it was named Indonesia’s Best Day Spa at the World Spa Awards. Their offerings also extend to other prime Bali locations, including Seminyak, Nusa Lembongan, and Uluwatu.
Senses Spa

Senses Spa

Picture this: you’re enjoying a relaxing massage with the soothing sound of waves in the background at an Ocean View spa. That’s exactly what you can expect at Senses Spa by La Joya Biu Biu, perched on a cliff's edge in Jimbaran. Offering a range of facial treatments and massages, all of which feature a nourishing base oil blend of sunflower, olive, soya, and virgin coconut oil.
Besakih Great Temple

Besakih Great Temple

Perched on the slopes of the majestic Mount Agung, Pura Besakih, or the Mother Temple of Bali, is the island’s most revered and ancient spiritual site. This sprawling complex of over 80 temples dates back to 1007 A.D., making it one of the island’s oldest temples. Terraces and stairs ascend to spacious courtyards that lead up to the main spire, symbolising the worshippers’ climb up Mount Meru, an important mountain in Hindu cosmology. This also allows them to ascend closer to the sacred Mount Agung.  At the heart of Besakih Great Temple lies Pura Penataran Agung, Bali's primary place of worship, featuring 22 intricately designed temples. The panoramic mountain views add to the temple's mystique, making it not only a spiritual destination but also a visual spectacle that captures the essence of Bali’s sacred landscape.
Ulun Danu Bratan

Ulun Danu Bratan

If Bali had a poster child, Ulun Danu Bratan would probably be it. This stunning 11-tier pagoda appears to float on the serene waters of Lake Beratan in Bedugul, creating a picture-perfect reflection when water levels rise. Dating back to 1633, the temple is a key site for ceremonies and offerings to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, in honour of Lake Bratan’s vital role as a water source for central Bali’s irrigation. The temple’s architecture, designed in the traditional Balinese Hindu style, features multi-tiered pagodas that rise against a backdrop of vibrant flower beds and towering mountains. The standout is the 11-storey Meru tower, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Parvati.
Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot, which literally means "Land in the Sea," is home to one of Bali’s most iconic temples. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop with waves crashing below, it’s the stuff postcard dreams are made of - especially at sunset when the temple is silhouetted against a golden sky. Built in the 16th century by Hindu priest Danghyang Niratha, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s seven sea temples, said to protect the island from evil spirits. If you’re lucky enough to visit during Odalan (takes place every 210 days), you’ll catch the temple at its liveliest, with rituals coinciding with the Galungan and Kuningan celebrations. And for the superstitious: rumour has it that Tanah Lot is the site of the infamous "Bali curse." If you're thinking of visiting with your significant other, you might want to weigh up the risks… or at least keep the romance on hold. Eat, pray, and proceed with caution!
Pura Saraswati

Pura Saraswati

In the heart of Ubud, Pura Taman Saraswati is a stunning tribute to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, wisdom, and arts. The temple's vibrant orange walls are adorned with intricate golden carvings that shimmer in the tropical sun, making it one of the most photogenic spots around.  A lotus pond surrounds the temple, adding to the serenity as you stroll down the path leading to its grand entrance. In fact, this is probably the first thing you’d see when you look up “Ubud” using Instagram’s Geotag function. Besides its photogenic nature, the temple is also an architectural masterpiece. It was built in 1952 under the royal patronage of Prince Tjokorda Gede Agung Sukawati and designed by the legendary Balinese artist Gusti Nyoman Lempad, whose works can be seen all around Ubud.  If you’re up for some culture, Pura Taman Saraswati also hosts nightly Balinese dance performances (except on Fridays) featuring iconic dances like the Legong and Barong.
Pura Tirta Empul

Pura Tirta Empul

Tucked away just north of Ubud, Pura Tirta Empul is Bali’s answer to a sacred spa day. This ancient Hindu water temple, built in 962 AD, is dedicated to Vishnu, the god of water - so you know it’s got some serious spiritual street cred. The main attraction here is a natural spring, said to be the “elixir of life,” bubbling up into crystal-clear pools, where 30 waterspouts feed two sacred purification pools. Join the locals in the melukat ritual, where a dip under the spouts is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul. And don’t miss the inner courtyard (jeroan), often overlooked by tourists. It’s a peaceful spot where people come to pray, surrounded by the temple’s large water spring, green algae, and little fish darting through the reeds. Oh, and did we mention it’s right below the Presidential Palace of Tampaksiring?

News (173)

Thailand has plans to impose a tourist tax on international visitors

Thailand has plans to impose a tourist tax on international visitors

The pristine shores of Phuket, Krabi and surrounding islands are popular destinations for Singaporeans looking for a quick getaway pre-pandemic. Now that more tourists are returning to the 'Land of Smiles', here's a new measure you should take note of.  The Thailand government has just proposed a 300-baht ($12) tourism fee that will be imposed on international visitors from April onwards. This will help develop attractions and cover accident insurance for foreigners unable to pay cost themselves said senior officials in a statement last week.  After all, Thailand has been badly hit by a tourism slump during the pandemic, seeing about 200,000 arrivals last year compared to nearly 40 million in 2019.  The tourism fee will be priced in with airline tickets and is part of the government's sustainable tourism plans, said government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana. It adds to a list of requirements for foreign tourists seeking entry to Thailand under the existing Sandbox programmes, which also includes pre-payment for Covid-19 tests, hotel accommodation for quarantine, and having insurance with COVID-19 treatment coverage of at least US$50,000 (S$67,417). Planning your trip to Thailand the minute Singapore resumes its VTL arrangements? Check out these best destinations in Thailand you can travel to on a VTL. Read more: Singapore emerges as the world's most powerful passport – alongside JapanAnnual leave hacks 2022: dates to book to make the most of the public holidays
Singapore emerges as the world's most powerful passport – alongside Japan

Singapore emerges as the world's most powerful passport – alongside Japan

Good news for all! Singapore has once again topped the world's most powerful passports for 2022, according to the Henley Passport Index. Similar to last year, it comes in first place alongside Japan. Citizens can travel to 192 countries visa free.  Coming on second spot is Germany and South Korea, with passport holders being able to access 190 destinations visa-free. Finland, Italy, Luxembourg and Spain share third place, with a score of 189.  The passport index is updated regularly, compiled using exclusive data from International Air Transport Association (IATA). 199 different passports and 227 different destinations were studied for the index.  Read on the list of most powerful passports to have: Japan, Singapore – 192 destinations Germany, South Korea – 190 destinations Finland, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain – 189 destinations Austria, Denmark, France, Netherlands, Sweden – 188 Ireland, Portugal – 187 Belgium, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States – 186 Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Greece, Malta – 185 Hungary, Poland – 183 Lithuania, Slovakia – 182 Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia – 181 Read more: All you need to know about travelling to our neighbouring countriesThis telegram bot has everything you need to know for future travelsThe best boutique travel companies to support once we can travel again
Collect these adorable hongbaos from Singapore's museums

Collect these adorable hongbaos from Singapore's museums

Want to stand out from the crowd this Lunar New Year? This Year of the Tiger, spread the huat with some artsy hongbaos. The National Heritage Board (NHB) is back with its popular Museum Roundtable Lunar New Year Hongbao Campaign, showcasing limited edition red packet designed based on the Tiger, the Chinese zodiac animal for 2022.  From January 7 to February 4, you'll be able to collect a set of unique red packet designs at each of the 35 participating museums, heritage institutions and galleries – all while stocks last. Each set will contain eight pieces of red packets – but you can only collect one packet per visitor. Two of the 35 participating museums are new Museum Roundtable (MR) members which are participating in the Hongbao Campaign for the first time: Geylang Serai Heritage Gallery and Kreta Ayer Heritage Gallery. Amp up your hongbao collection game with the limited edition collector's albums available for sale at the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall from January 22. Each album costs $70 and will contain two full sets of exclusive 35 Museum Roundtable red packet designs, displayed inside a customised album.  If you're thinking of getting cultured this Lunar New Year, usher in the Year of the Tiger at The Asian Civilisations Museum through online videos and onsite programmes, including guided tours, craft activities, and more; or watch a lion dance performance at the National Museum of Singapore on February 4.  Read more: 8 good reasons to be happy about 2022Amoy Str
This Telegram bot has everything you need to know for your future travels

This Telegram bot has everything you need to know for your future travels

Since Singapore launched its VTL scheme last year, travel is back on everyone's horizons. With more variants like Omicron emerging, however, restrictions worldwide are ever-changing – and it can be daunting to plan your travels. Especially since Singapore has frozen its VTL temporarily until January 20.  If you're relying on Google to get updated on the situation around the world, it does get confusing. Thankfully, there's a Telegram bot that has curated relevant information from various sources – so you can get all your information in one place. Called TravelBans.org, the telegram group and website provides global travel restrictions – from the need for Covid-19 certificates, airline information, quarantine, PCR tests and more. They'll even recommend the best travel insurance to buy for a specific destination.  Once you're in the group, you'll be directed to the main menu which displays an extensive list of destinations. Tap on your chosen country and you'll be redirected to the existing restrictions for travellers into the countries. You'll also find links that will redirect you to the travelbans.org website for more in-depth information.  Things may look daunting right now, especially if you're waiting for the VTL to resume. But it's never too early to start planning.  Read more: The best destinations in Thailand you can travel to on a VTLThe most stunning hotels in VTL destinations from SingaporeAlternative destinations to travel to from Singapore
Yip Yew Chong's latest work is a monumental three-storey mural in Chinatown

Yip Yew Chong's latest work is a monumental three-storey mural in Chinatown

Singaporeans would be familiar with Yip Yew Chong's murals scattered around heritage neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, Little India and Chinatown. In fact, this year has been an incredibly fruitful one for him – from his first ever solo exhibition in January to an ambitious 50-metre acrylic painting of 1970s Kreta Ayer.   Now, the artist is ending the year on a massively impressive note after finishing a monumental three-storey mural on 30 Temple Street in Chinatown, where he used to live. In it, Yew Chong painted a coffee shop amongst the lively market place. The coffee shop is named '順成茶室', after the artist's dad.  "My mum said my dad would be very happy if he sees this mural. I think he sees it," Yew Chong shares in his Instagram post.  The artist, who is famed for being able to paint vivid details from his memory, also painted his mum twice in the mural. In it, she runs a food stall inside the coffee shop – an ode to her helming various jobs in real life, including in a rubber factory, sewing clothes, pantry and cleaning, and making Sushi at Yaohan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yip Yew Chong (@yipyewchong) And of course, what's a Yip Yew Chong mural without its intricate details? Look closer and you'll find details like a lizard crawling and rubber bands hanging on the wall. There are also characters on a pillar which means 'coffee and tea,' derived from a Hokkien phonetic that's also commonly written by other dialect groups. Then, look up f
Singapore Dance Theatre unveils its new name

Singapore Dance Theatre unveils its new name

Founded in 1988 by Anthony Then and Goh Soo Kim, Singapore Dance Theatre (SDT) started as a group of seven ballet dancers in a humble dance studio on the second story of a colonial bungalow on Killiney Road. It has now blossomed into Singapore's national dance company comprising of 36 dancers and apprentices – with a repertoire that ranges from classical to contemporary ballet. Those acquainted with the dance and art scene in Singapore would have attended its shows such as Ballet Under The Stars seasons at Fort Canning Green and Passages Contemporary Season. Three decades later, the dance company unveils its new name: Singapore Ballet. This much-anticipated news was announced at the opening of the Singapore Ballet Festival which took place from December 10 to 12. In making the name change, the company hopes to present itself in the most authentic light, whilst still remaining an ambassador for dance and for Singapore.  Artistic Director Janek Schergen, who has led the ballet since 2008, says: "By the time three decades had passed, a confident maturity to SDT was now in place and the company had its own unique identity. To reflect this and show this confident maturity of the nature of our organization, a decision has been made to rename ourselves as Singapore Ballet."  This is incredibly exciting news for dance lovers in Singapore – and we can't wait to see what Singapore Ballet has up its sleeves from here on out.  Read more: #BuySingLit announces fresh new name and identit
#BuySingLit announces fresh new name and identity

#BuySingLit announces fresh new name and identity

Since its inception five years ago, literary movement #BuySingLit has been an advocate for local literature. And for good reason, too. After all, Sing Lit has played an important role in many literature lovers' lives over the past year as they stayed home and looked for new worlds to travel to.  Now, as we return to hybrid and physical events, the annual #BuySingLit event has rebranded with a fresh new name and identity. Now called Sing Lit: Read Our World, the industry-led initiative now expands into a year-round movement to bring Singapore literature (Sing Lit) to audiences every day throughout the year.  Over the course of next year, the movement will be rolling out a slate of hybrid programmes and community activities that will introduce readers to the diversity of Singapore literature with a line-up of hybrid programmes and community activities. Sing Lit: Read Our World is kicking off with a Sing Lit Blk Party, a one-day hybrid festival celebrating Sing Lit as a rallying call to Singaporeans, in February; followed by a Singapore Literary Book Bazaar in March 2022. The Book Bazaar will be organised by the Singapore Book Publishers and will showcase the best in the Singapore literary publishing scene, featuring established and independent literary content makers.  “The initiative brings together people from all corners of the Sing Lit ecosystem – the writers, publishers, translators, illustrators, editors, readers and more – building a sustainable community that will keep
This art initiative will give you a dollar for your happy memories

This art initiative will give you a dollar for your happy memories

The team behind Happy House wants your memories – and they'll pay you a dollar for them. Why, you may ask? To combat these very confusing, tough times, they're building a digital vault of collective happy memories – to preserve and celebrate some of your greatest moments in the past.  On their site, a prompt reads: "What are some fleeting moments that have brought you the most happiness? Are there moments you may have mindlessly captured, that now serve as a snapshot of a happier time?"  All you have to do is look through your photos and videos on your phones, slide into Happy House's DMs via Instagram, and share your happy memory. You'll then get your dollar.  There are some terms and conditions, however. You have to consent to your content being displayed publicly in relation to the promotion of Happy House; and to your name and/or likeness and/or anonymity being used in relation to your shared content. You also have to make sure you're the owner and creator of the content you share. Down to share your happy memories? Check out their site here.  Read more: We tried a Zouk DJ masterclass – here's what went downThe best Christmas movies to watch this festive seasonThe best upcoming TV series to watch in Singapore
Singapore is officially the most expensive city in Asia

Singapore is officially the most expensive city in Asia

From having the most impressive skyscrapers in the world to the award-winning Changi Airport, Singapore is known for its competitive spirit. And now, for better or for worse, it has knocked Hong Kong off its spot for the most expensive country in Asia to live in. This is according to rankings released by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) on Wednesday.  Singapore has risen two spots and has clinched a joint second place with Paris, followed by Zurich in the fourth position. Tel Aviv, with its stronger currency and hikes in grocery and car prices, has climbed four places to top the rankings for the first time; while Hong Kong has moved four notches down to fifth as prices of clothing and personal care, including haircuts, dipped. With Singapore's property prices continuously rising in 2021, the results come as no surprise. But hey, at least we are still the cleanest and greenest city. And we are home to some of the most affordable, delicious food in the world.  Here are the ten most expensive cities in the world: 1. Tel Aviv 2. Paris3. Singapore 4. Zurich5. Hong Kong 6. New York7. Geneva 8. Copenhagen 9. Los Angeles 10. Osaka  Read more: Singapore is named one of the best cities in the world – and the cleanest and greenestSingapore extends its VTL scheme to six more countriesThe best free things to do in Singapore30 best cheap eats in SingaporeA guide to moving out of your parents home in Singapore
Singapore extends its VTL scheme to six more countries – including Thailand, Turkey and Maldives

Singapore extends its VTL scheme to six more countries – including Thailand, Turkey and Maldives

Here's some news to end your week on a sweet note. Singapore is extending its vaccinated travel lane schemes to six more countries: Thailand, Maldives, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Fiji. This new development was announced by Transport Minister S Iswaran on Friday, November 26.  According to a statement by The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), travellers from Thailand will be able to enter Singapore from December 14. Those from Cambodia, Fiji, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Turkey, on the other hand, may do so from December 16. Additionally, Singapore will start accepting European Union (EU) digital Covid-19 certificates, even if they are issued in countries that do not have a travel lane agreement with Singapore. This means that vaccinated travellers with these certificates will be able to come here on the travel lane scheme. The relevant agencies are also working on issuing the EU digital Covid-19 certificate-compatible vaccination and test certificates from December 7 for Singaporeans. In holding these certificates, travellers will be able to take part in activities tied to a person's vaccination status while in countries under the EU.  Fully vaccinated Singapore citizens and permanent residents, alongside children 12 years and below, will not have to apply for a vaccinated travel pass to enter Singapore. However, short-term visitors and long-term pass holders will be required.  This new announcement is a much-needed one, seeing how three neighbouring countries (Tha
Singapore-Malaysia land VTL to open on November 29

Singapore-Malaysia land VTL to open on November 29

Thailand or Bali may be the go-to getaways for short weekend escapes from Singapore. But Johor Bahru is most arguably the most popular destination for Singaporeans pre-Covid. So here's one of the most exciting VTL news to date: we can finally cross the border again come November 29!  It's been announced today that starting from next Monday (November 29), up to 1,440 Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders in Malaysia will be able to cross the Causeway into Singapore each day using designated bus services, without the need for quarantine. In the same vein, up to 1,440 Malaysian citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders in Singapore will also be able to go back home, marking the initial phase of a much-anticipated land vaccinated travel lane (VTL) between the two countries. Tickets for the designated land VTL buses go on sale at 8am on Thursday, November 25. Here are the details of the VTL:  Those travelling via the land VTL must test negative after undergoing a professionally administered antigen rapid test (ART) or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within two days of departure The test must be done at an accredited laboratory or testing centre Additionally, those travelling to Malaysia will also need to take an additional supervised on-arrival ART after they clear immigration And if you're wondering if the bus tickets will cost the same as it was before the pandemic, we've got you covered. ]The ride from Singapore will cost $15 f
Flights to London are going from $849 with British Airways' Black Friday deals

Flights to London are going from $849 with British Airways' Black Friday deals

Missed having a picnic in London's outdoor gardens, gallery-hopping from the V&A to Natural History Museum in a day, tucking into Brick Lane's bagels and walking around Chinatown? Then you'll wanna stay tuned for this.  With travel finally taking off in full swing now, airlines are pushing out deals that make travelling even more exciting. British Airways, the flag carrier of the United Kingdom, has just launched its Black Friday offers with prices lower than ever before. Tickets start from $849 for economy tickets and $3,999 for business class. These can be used for the Quarantine-Free Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) flights from London Heathrow. Under the VTL scheme, fully vaccinated customers will have to test negative for Covid-19 and avoid the need to quarantine for 10 days on arrival. Customers returning to Singapore must then apply for a Singapore Vaccinated Travel Pass seven to 30 days before travelling back.  Ready to leave your worries behind and get reacquainted with one of the oldest of the world's greatest cities? Get your tickets at britishairways.com between 00:01 on November 23 to 23:59 on December 2.  Read more: The best alternative destinations to travel to from SingaporeThe most stunning hotels in VTL destinations from SingaporeSingapore travellers to Denmark now have to serve up to 10 days in quarantine