Joycelyn Yeow

We might be halfway through September, but the fun is anything but half-baked. This week, take a peek into the future at Singapore Science Park’s exhibition Reinvention, vibe to live music performances for free at Marina Central or drop by the Dreamriver Market and get some goodies for yourself. Mid-autumn festival and Oktoberfest celebrations have also begun at Chinatown and Clarke Quay, so you’ve got heaps to check out. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this week.  RECOMMENDED: The 101 best things to do in Singapore and New attractions in Singapore in 2025    

Bali? No. Think quieter, less crowded and arguably better. This slice of Indonesia hasn’t been overrun by tourists, and you won’t need to shell out for a private island resort just to soak up its beauty. Welcome to Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in Belitung, set within the UNESCO Global Geopark of Belitung Island where pearlescent sands meet dramatic granite boulders, and a scattering of tiny islands floats just offshore. Now, you might be thinking: isn’t it just another spot in Indonesia? Fair question. That’s why we’ve pulled together a quick guide to the best things to do in and around Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, so you can decide for yourself if this coastal escape deserves a spot on your itinerary. Spoiler: I’m already planning my return.  RECOMMENDED: Digital nomad visas in Asia and The best islands in Asia you need to visit at least once

The September school holidays are here, and this weekend is bursting with fun for all ages. Marvel at the dazzling light projections along the Singapore River, explore quirky art by local creatives at the new Unnatural History Museum of Singapore, or visit the two new exhibitions at Singapore Art Museum. There’s also a fun outdoor mini-festival at Jurong, and yes, it’s held at the HDB carpark lots. You’ll find lots to explore and enjoy this weekend, so scroll on for the best things to do in Singapore.  RECOMMENDED: New openings and attractions in Singapore in 2025 and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

Whether you're gearing up for the upcoming weekend or the long-awaited school holidays, Singapore is brimming with fun, quirky, and educational activities for kids of all ages. From making a splash at an outdoor water playground to getting your hands dirty at rice planting workshops, we've curated a list of the best things to do with your kids, so your next family outing is packed with fun and unforgettable memories. RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails for kids and the best free playgrounds in Singapore

September is here, and while Singapore may not have autumn leaves or pumpkin patches, the city is packed with events to fill your calendar. From ballet performances to boutique marketplaces, there is plenty to see, taste and experience across the island. Food lovers can savour unique flavours at the Singapore Food Festival food trucks, while thrill-seekers can try surfing or snowboarding at Trifecta’s Ride in the City. Art enthusiasts can explore new exhibitions, including Another World Is Possible at the ArtScience Museum, which presents a vision of the future through a Singaporean lens. And that’s just the beginning – scroll on to discover more of the best things to do in Singapore this September.RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and 7 very demure, very mindful things to do in Singapore

No matter the occasion, gifting a beautiful bouquet to your loved one is always a great idea – you get to choose a design that best suits your recipient, and fresh blooms look (and smell) great when displayed on one’s dining table. To make your gift-giving easier, we’ve rounded up some of the best flower delivery services in Singapore that’ll safely deliver your precious bouquet to your giftee. You won’t even have to leave the house to pick the bouquet. All you have to do is select your posy and cart out.   RECOMMENDED: The most romantic restaurants in Singapore and The most romantic hotels in Singapore

July in Singapore is shaping up to be packed with lots of fun things to do. From thought-provoking stage productions to interactive exhibitions, there’s a little something for everyone to explore this month. Catch Singapore, Michigan, a dark comedy road trip brought to life by Pangdemonium, or marvel at larger-than-life inflatables at Pop Air – Art is Inflatable. Art lovers can immerse themselves in marine worlds, psychedelic mirror rooms and Southeast Asian dreamscapes across venues like the National Gallery and Singapore Art Museum. For families, the Gallery Children's Biennale and Disney Garden of Wonder are perfect for some multi-generational fun. Want something outdoorsy? Make your way to Palawan Beach for Sentosa’s Sunset Watch Party, or see dinosaurs come to life at Jurassic World: The Experience in the Cloud Forest. And if you’re a foodie, don’t miss Seoul’s cult favourite Standard Bun at its first pop-up here. Whether you're rediscovering the city or seeing it for the first time, July is packed with reasons to go out and explore. And hey, some of it’s even free. RECOMMENDED: Singapore’s best new restaurants  

Singapore’s hotel scene is buzzing with a fresh crop of new openings in 2025, offering everything from rainforest resorts to urban lifestyle hotels. Whether you’re a local in need of a pampering staycation or a tourist hunting for a new place to stay, there’s something for everyone. From lavish villas with private plunge pools to a boutique hotel housed in a decommissioned MRT train, here are the hottest new hotels in Singapore to bookmark this year:  RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore 2025 and The 50 best cafés in Singapore

The Singapore National Stadium is easily one of the most sought-after concert venues in the city – and for good reason. Despite a variety of other venues available, this iconic stadium stands out with its massive 55,000-seat capacity and the accolade of being the largest dome in the world. Over the years, it has drawn a stellar line-up of international superstars including Harry Styles. Guns N’ Roses, Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift,  thanks to its state-of-the-art sound system and well-designed space. With the significant sums of money spent on concert tickets, coupled with the chaos and stress of ticketing queues and limited availability, choosing the right seat becomes all the more important to make the most of the experience. Ticketing platforms typically release general seating plans, but the ideal spot depends largely on personal preferences. Some fans enjoy being on their feet in the standing pens, immersed in the energy of the crowd. Others may prefer a comfortable seat to enjoy the music with a full view of the stage. Some also opt for side-stage seats for a closer glimpse of the performers. To help make the decision easier, we’ve broken down the seating options based on the different types of concert-goers. Seating layouts can vary from show to show depending on stage design, so use this guide as a starting point when planning where to sit for the next big gig at the National Stadium. RECOMMENDED: The best concerts and music festivals in Singapore i

Outdoor lovers will know – there are many nature trails and parks in Singapore, so much so that you can plan an entire weekend’s worth of things to do at these green spaces. And one such place would be the 24km-long Rail Corridor, which reopened in 2021 after two years of renovation work. Following this came the restoration of Bukit Timah Railway Station, the launch of Rifle Range Nature Park, and the reopening of the northern section of the Rail Corridor – all of which are part of the Rail Corridor. Needless to say, there’s much to do here. Whether it’s your first or tenth visiting the revamped space, we’ve curated a guide on what to see and do. Happy trails! RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails in Singapore and the best outdoor spots in Singapore to admire nature from above  

Singapore Changi Airport hardly needs an introduction. Crowned the world’s best airport in 2025, the airport’s striking architecture and impressive dining offerings are just some of the reasons why it has earned its global acclaim.  Whether you’re flying through or simply looking for a new spot to explore, there’s plenty to uncover here – from rooftop pools and interactive installations to serene nature spaces. Here’s a round-up of the best things to do at Changi Airport. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore and The best concerts and music festivals in Singapore in 2025

Jewel Changi Airport isn’t just for layovers and luggage. It is also home to Canopy Park, a sprawling indoor playground for all ages. From sky-high bouncing nets and mirrored mazes to misty gardens and floral wonderlands, it’s a great place to unleash your inner child. Whether you're racing through hedge mazes or snapping selfies with animal-shaped topiaries, there's no shortage of ways to kill time and calories at this all-day attraction. Canopy Park is open from 10am to 9pm from Mondays to Thursdays, and 10am to 10pm from Fridays to Sundays. Tickets are priced from $6 for both adults and children.  RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore 2025 and New attractions in Singapore in 2025

The Marina Central area is coming alive with the District M Festival, transforming the space into a colourful hub of music and activities. Different zones represent a variety of genres, from acoustic and R&B to pop and electronic, with live performances from local and international artists including Nathan Hartono, DJ Gigi, Cherry Chan, DJ Iku, Mila Bea, Takayoshi, Zalelo and more. Beyond the music, there’s plenty to do: try candle marbling, get a temporary jagua tattoo, challenge friends to a game of giant chess, or strike a pose at the photobooth. Fans of coffee and sick beats won’t want to miss the growingly popular sober coffee rave by Beans&Beats. The festival is pet-friendly in all open-air areas. Be sure to bring a rain poncho just in case, as the event will continue rain or shine and there are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore.

As part of Singapore Design Week 2025, Singapore Science Park has unveiled a new exhibition, Reinvention, at the lifestyle hub Geneo. True to its name, the exhibition explores how science, technology and design come together to influence the future. Visitors can check out the robotics showcase, which highlights how machines can support and enhance human life, fostering a collaborative relationship between man and machine. You can also get an insight into some interesting food tech innovations, offering a glimpse of how we might eat in the future. Join panels led by industry professionals that explore how sustainable designs can be integrated into architecture in Singapore, with leading voices sharing their creative journeys and insights. For those wanting a more hands-on experience, there are also workshops such as building your own sustainable tech toolkit and experimenting with design-driven solutions.

As part of the Singapore River Festival 2025, the DreamRiver Market is making a return, curated by Sunday Social Market to shine a spotlight on independent creatives and eco-conscious brands. More than 20 local vendors will be showcasing their wares, from soy wax scented candles by Candletruck and skincare by From The Dot, to fragrances from Danhomme and unique jewellery from Savage Archipelago, plus plenty more. For something a little different, get a temporary jagua tattoo by Jynk Ink – great for experimenting without committing to a permanent design. The market is set along Robertson Quay, outside the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, and runs from 3pm to 9.30pm. Entry to the market is free and the entire area is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along your four-legged friends. 

October is arriving early at Clarke Quay, with Oktoberfest celebrations taking place on September 19 and 20 at the Clarke Quay Fountain Square. Don your dirndls or lederhosen and raise a cold pint with friends to mark the festive season. The alfresco event will feature live sets from DJs Shaty, Reiko and Rock Rosettes, keeping the energy high throughout the celebrations. Take part in fun games like the Pretzel Toss and the Hammer and Wood Chopping Machine to compete with your pals. Of course, no Oktoberfest is complete without food and drink – enjoy Erdinger pints and a selection of German snacks as you soak in the lively atmosphere.

Two decades, countless anthems and one epic night – Mayday Parade is bringing their Three Cheers For 20 Years tour to Singapore. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just familiar with a few hits, this is your chance to catch Mayday Parade live. The setlist has yet to be announced, but concertgoers can look forward to fan favourites such as Jamie All Over, Miserable At Best, Dead Friends, Oh Well, Oh Well and Stay, taking you through two decades of the band’s unforgettable music. 

Singapore River One and DesignSingapore Council join forces for this year’s Singapore River Festival, celebrating the historic waterway at the heart of Singapore. One of the festival’s main highlights is River of Dreams, a whimsical show brought to life through dazzling projection mapping along the Singapore River, accompanied by an immersive soundtrack. The show follows Wei Ming as he is led by the ancient river spirit through a dreamy world, transforming the riverbank into a stage of light, sound and storytelling. By night, the three iconic bridges – Cavenagh, Read and Robertson – will glow with colourful light installations, transforming them into stunning photo spots. A specially curated playlist, accessible via the Cinewav mobile app, will accompany your stroll across the bridges. On land, the festivities continue with the Dreamriver Market, curated by Sunday Social Market, featuring booths by local creatives. Families can catch an outdoor screening of the animated film Elemental, while pet owners can look forward to a dedicated pet market, fun obstacle courses for the furkids and even pet cruises. For something extra adorable, join the My Melody and Kuromi Kawaii Walk, complete with Sanrio-themed pop-ups and experiences. 

Singapore’s never short of fascinating exhibitions, and here’s one more to add to your list – the Unnatural History Museum of Singapore, curated by Kinetic Singapore for Singapore Design Week 2025. This imaginative showcase reinterprets the nation’s past in unexpected ways. Wander through the space and you’ll encounter unique artwork such as a six-metre mock Merlion fossil, hybrid flora and robotic fauna, animal droids staged in dioramas and taxidermy-inspired works, geological displays featuring innovative new materials, alternative food concepts and reimagined landscape paintings. More than just playful creations, these artworks celebrate the creativity and ingenuity that have fuelled Singapore’s growth and success over the decades. At the same time, the exhibition hopes to spark fresh ideas about what the country’s future might hold.

Who says you need a swanky venue to host an event? Park(ing) Day 2025, organised by Design the Good Life, is transforming a humble HDB carpark into a lively community space with plenty of free activities and booths to explore. Taking over the parking spaces at 322A Jurong East Street 31 on September 13, the event blends health, play and creativity in fun and unexpected ways. Grab a refreshing smoothie at Smoothies for Life, where drinks are blended by pedal-powered bicycles, or challenge your friends at KopiConnect with childhood games like five stones and memory quizzes over coffee-inspired treats.  Other highlights include a quirky round of table tennis using homeware instead of actual rackets, plus a blindfolded mini maze designed to test your family’s teamwork and communication skills. You can even have your aura read at one of the booths. The event runs from 4pm to 8pm, and admission is free.

Singapore may only be 60 years old, but the nation has endured much, including the turbulence of World War II, and the country’s wartime history remains a crucial part of our identity. To mark this, Changi Chapel and Museum has teamed up with Reflections at Bukit Chandu to present Liberation of Singapore, a curated programme of talks and guided experiences that brings these chapters of history to life. Highlights include the public talk Whispers of War: Singapore Syonan-to, which delves into the ideological and social shifts during the Japanese Occupation, and explores how our ancestors navigated life under Syonan-to. For those keen to step into history, the Journey to the East: Heritage Trail takes participants through Changi Chapel and Museum and Changi Point, uncovering stories of prisoners-of-war and kampong residents who lived through the era.

It’s a buzzing weekend at the Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark, with the launch of two new exhibitions – Talking Objects and The Living Room – alongside a programme of live performances and sharings by local and international curators. Talking Objects shines a spotlight on the emotional weight and value we attach to the material and visual world around us. Everyday items are transformed by artists into thought-provoking presentations, prompting visitors to reconsider their relationship with the objects that populate their lives. The Living Room looks at the ways museums engage with performance-based practices, from collecting and preserving to finding new modes of display. It challenges visitors to question what it means to create a space that can welcome many voices and shifting experiences, while still offering a sense of belonging. Both exhibitions are open from September 12, 2025 to July 19, 2026.

Not all tigers are fearsome – some simply want to share a spot of tea. The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a great family-friendly show to bring the little ones to this weekend.  The play follows Sophie and her mum as they sit down for tea, only to be joined by a surprise guest: a big, stripy tiger. Packed with singalong songs and playful skits, the production promises plenty of laughs and excitement for young audiences. The show is suited for children aged three and up, and with a runtime of just under an hour – the ideal length to keep kids entertained without testing their attention span. 

Western Australia comes to Singapore this week with WA! Fest, a celebration of the region’s finest produce and flavours. Running from September 11 to 14, the festival is a collaboration between Little Farms and Tourism Western Australia, and brings about a series of culinary-themed events across the city. Head to Sentosa Cove on September 13 and Serangoon Gardens on September 14 to explore the lively Farmers’ Market pop-ups, where you can browse rare endemic honey, sea moss and fresh produce flown in straight from Western Australia. Foodies can also look forward to exclusive dinners curated by Executive Chef Aaron Carr of Yarri Restaurant and Bar, each crafted with premium ingredients sourced directly from the region.

Sometimes, the noise of everyday life gets a little too loud and you just want to shut it all out. For many, that escape means hopping on a plane in search of a little zen. But where should you go? British travel company Travelbag has released its list of the world’s most tranquil destinations in 2025 – and yes, a few Asian cities have made the cut. Over 30 locations were ranked, with factors such as noise and light pollution, overall cleanliness, travel congestion, and quality of green spaces taken into account. In short, the things that make it easier to switch off and properly unwind. Claiming the top spot is Queenstown, New Zealand, which scored highly for its pristine parks and green spaces, as well as impressively low levels of pollution. The Seychelles Islands take second place, while Cairns, Australia comes in third. Perhaps most surprising is Kyoto, Japan in fourth place. Despite being a perennial tourist hotspot, the former imperial capital remains remarkably clean, quiet and green. With its classical Buddhist temples, manicured gardens, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden townhouses, it’s proof that you don’t need to trek halfway across the globe to find serenity. Further down the list, Tokyo lands in 11th place, an interesting result given that it’s Japan’s bustling capital. Yet, despite the city’s famously fast-paced lifestyle, Tokyo still boasts an impressive number of green spaces, and its commitment to cleanliness is second to none. You’ll be hard-pressed t

Say farewell to Phnom Penh International Airport and welcome Cambodia’s brand-new Techo International Airport, which officially opened in September 2025. The $2 billion mega-project is a collaboration between the Cambodian government and Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation, and artfully designed by acclaimed British architecture firm Foster + Partners. Spanning a massive 2,600 hectares, the airport is projected to handle up to 13 million passengers annually, with ambitious plans to scale to 50 million by 2050. One of its most striking features, as seen in travellers’ videos online, is the giant golden Buddha statue at the heart of the terminal – an instant photo spot for tourists before they jet off. Adding to the sense of calm, rows of lush greenery line the concourse, as part of the airport’s aim to be one of the greenest in the world. In fact, the terminal is said to be powered almost entirely by an onsite solar farm. Architecturally, the airport is topped with a single sweeping canopy roof supported by structural trees made of lightweight steel, filtering daylight to flood the terminal with natural light. Foster + Partners notes that the interiors were crafted to reinterpret the Cambodian vernacular in a contemporary way, with warm-toned palettes adding a welcoming glow. Beyond the gates, you will find a wide mix of duty-free shops, from snacks and spirits to Cambodian souvenirs, so you can grab a final memento before boarding. Did you know? This gorgeous coastal ci

If you thought New York’s Grand Central Terminal was big, wait until you see Chongqing East Station in China – now officially the world’s largest train station. At a whopping 1.22 million square metres, it’s more than five times the size of Grand Central. Located in Nan’an, Chongqing, the project came with a hefty price tag of £5.82 billion. The station houses 15 platforms and 29 tracks, built to handle up to 16,000 passengers every hour – and with so much space, there’s plenty of room for passengers to move without feeling packed in. Its architecture pays homage to local culture, taking inspiration from huangjue trees which are native to Chongqing. You’ll also spot details like a bamboo scroll welcome sign and flower-shaped ventilation grills. Natural light floods the cavernous interiors through the vast glass curtain wall roof, giving the space an airy, open feel. As with any major hub, there are plenty of food options – from international staples like McDonald’s and KFC to local eateries selling Chongqing specialities. Chongqing East Station is also a major stop for several high-speed rail lines, including the Chongqing-Xiamen, Shanghai-Chongqing-Chengdu and Chongqing-Wanzhou routes. Thanks to these connections, passengers can reach Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen in just six to eight hours. Did you know? This gorgeous coastal city in Vietnam welcome its first JW Marriott resort Plus: 10 best street food cities in Asia you need to eat through Stay in the loop: si

Train otaku or not, it’s clear to everyone that rail travel is on the rise. From Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express to the overnight line between China and Vietnam – and even the upcoming KL-Bangkok service launching later this year – train journeys are having a serious moment. Adding to the list is the brand-new Hanoi Train, which officially began operations just last week. Launched in collaboration with the Vietnam Railway Corporation, the service runs two departures daily from Hanoi Station, passing through Gia Lam and Yen Vien before reaching Tu Son Station in Bac Ninh province, then looping back to Hanoi. Designed to spotlight Vietnam’s rich history and culture, the train takes inspiration from the ancient Thang Long Citadel. Its carriages are named after the five gates – Cau Den, Cau Giay, Cho Dua, Dong Mac and Quan Chuong. Each of the five double-decker carriages follow a unique theme, with room for up to 60 passengers. On board, you’ll find live showcases of traditional Vietnamese music and dance – from quan ho and cheo to xam and ca tru – alongside handicraft workshops such as making Dong Ho paintings and Phu The cakes. And if all that leaves you feeling peckish, there’s a menu of Hanoi specialities to tuck into, including young sticky rice, lotus tea, and other seasonal treats. The journey takes just 40 minutes, with departures at 8am and 1.30pm daily. Travellers are advised to check in 30 minutes before departure. Tickets are currently priced from VND 550,000 (ap

Flying might be the most common way to travel, but trains have quickly become a close contender. With rail networks expanding across the globe, luxurious sleeper trains like Belmond’s Eastern and Oriental Express offering scenic journeys, and high-speed rail proving just as fast and efficient as other modes of transport, train travel has seen a serious glow-up in recent years.  And if you’re wondering which countries boast the most extensive high-speed rail networks, the results might surprise you. Despite being the birthplace of the bullet train, Japan doesn’t top the list. According to the World Population Review, China leads by a landslide with a staggering 64,775km of high-speed track, 40,474km of which are in operation. The Beijing-Guangzhou line alone stretches 2,298km, making it the longest high-speed railway in the world, with a journey time of around eight hours. Another 2,600km of high-speed track is set to be added by the end of 2025. In second place is Spain, with 5,579km of high-speed rail – a far cry from China’s numbers. Japan ranks third with 3,677km, followed by France and Germany in fourth and fifth place. The top 10 longest high-speed rail networks in the world in 2025:  China Spain Japan France Germany Finland Turkey Italy South Korea Sweden  The longest high-speed rail networks in Asia in 2025:  China Japan South Korea India Indonesia Vietnam Thailand  View the full list here. Did you know? This high-powered Asian city is the world’s second most relax

Rising living costs are something most of us have to endure, which is why some choose to pack up and move abroad in search of a more affordable lifestyle. But which cities are genuinely the easiest on the wallet? A new study by Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy has the answer – and topping the list is Shenzhen, China, ranked as the most affordable city for both locals and expats. The research compared 45 cities across Asia, Australasia, Europe and North America, taking into account factors such as housing markets, education fees and transport costs. Unsurprisingly, New York, Zurich and Los Angeles are the priciest cities for both expats and residents. The study highlights that the most expensive cities remain concentrated in North America and Western Europe. On the flip side, Shenzhen leads the list of the world’s most affordable cities for expats. Despite being dubbed China’s Silicon Valley and serving as the country’s third most populous city after Shanghai and Beijing, Shenzhen still boasts relatively low housing prices compared to the other global cities. Bangkok takes second place, followed by Osaka and Kobe in joint third. The top 10 cities with the lowest cost of living for expats:  Shenzhen, China Bangkok, Thailand Osaka and Kobe, Japan Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Taipei, Taiwan Hanoi, Vietnam Manila, Philippines Jakarta, Indonesia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Mumbai, India   Shenzhen also has the lowest cost of living for locals, with Beijing and Taipei ranked se

Heads up if you’re travelling to Indonesia – there’s a new arrival declaration procedure you have to complete. But ‘fret not, it’s completely free of charge and meant to make your entry into Indonesia fuss free.  Starting September 1, 2025, all travellers, including citizens, are required to use the new mobile phone app All Indonesia to complete the arrival declaration. The app aims to shorten and simplify the arrival process by streamlining all immigration, customs, quarantine and health declarations into one form. It’s also made to be user-friendly so elderly and people with disabilities can easily use the app, and is available in English, Chinese and Bahasa Indonesia.  Travellers can complete and submit the form via the app up to three days before arrival, and the entire process is free of charge.  This is currently implemented for travellers arriving at three airports: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, in Bali, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, and Juanda International Airport in Surabaya. Those entering via the international sea ports in Batam are also required to use the new app. This process will subsequently be rolled out to the other airports.  Did you know? This high-powered Asian city is the world’s second most relaxing destination in 2025 Plus: These 4 Asian airports made Travel + Leisure’s list of the World’s Best International Airports for 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out As

If you "want to feel young again", grab your party people and get ready to paint the town red this September with DJ Hardwell. The famous Dutch DJ is back on tour this month, and he's bringing his shows to Asia – specifically Thailand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea and China.  Known for his top-charting hits like Spaceman , Apollo, Young Again and Dare You, Hardwell has become one of the top DJs in the EDM sphere. Since his debut, he has headlined major global music festivals, including Tomorrowland, Coachella and Ultra Music Festival, and was crowned the world's best DJ by DJ Magazine twice. Over the years, he's teamed up with fellow Dutch DJ Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and Afrojack, as well as international superstars like Jason Derulo, Jay Sean, Craig David, and many more.  The DJ announced his upcoming September tours on his social media platform just this week, and he's set to perform at the following locations: September 11: Illusion in Phuket, Thailand September 12: Marquee in Singapore September 14: Ultra Japan in Tokyo, Japan September 20: Ultra Korea in Seoul, South Korea September 21: Electric Jungle in Foshan, China Tickets for the Asia shows are currently available for purchase – details can be found on the official Hardwell website .  Did you know? Indonesian rapper Rich Brian announces new Asia tour stops in Taipei, Manila, Singapore, and more Plus: 16 brilliant music festivals in Asia you don't want to miss in 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out

Candlelight meditations, sunrise pilates and expert-led wellness workshops – that’s just a taste of what awaits at the Soul Festival this October. Held at Soneva Fushi, an award-winning eco-luxury resort set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, this five-day retreat takes wellness to a whole new level. Forget cramped yoga studios and clichéd panels urging you to switch off your phone – the Soul Festival is wellness reimagined, blending luxury with holistic living. Happening from October 9 to 13, the festival unfolds within a barefoot sanctuary, encouraging guests to connect with the earth and embrace nature at every step. Programmes follow four central themes: Foundations of Wellness, Peak Performance and Longevity, Holistic Balance and Vitality, and Practical Integration and Embodied Wisdom. Each morning begins with mindful movement against a stunning ocean backdrop – from barefoot Sanctum sessions on the beach to energising pilates. After a nourishing breakfast, guests can dive into thought-provoking panels led by leading voices in the wellness world, including co-founders of the Flow Genome Project Jamie Wheal and Julie Webster, Sanctum founders Luuk Melisse and Gabriel Olszewski, CEO of Bodyism Nathalie Schyllert, leading dermatologist Dr Timm Golüke and many more. Afternoons are dedicated to hands-on workshops and intimate one-on-one sessions, ranging from trauma-informed bodywork and qi activation to somatic therapy. As night falls, the energy

Souvenirs are a travel staple – a little token to say, “I thought of you while I was away,” and a way of bringing a slice of another country back home. The tricky part is finding something meaningful without falling into the tourist trap of overpriced knick-knacks. To help with that, the Financial Times recently asked its readers to vote for the world's best souvenir shops in 2025 – and two Japanese stationery stores made the cut. While the details of the voting process were not revealed, including how many readers took part and what criteria were used, the list is still worth noting for when you need a reliable spot to shop for souvenirs. Japan has long been known for its top-tier stationery: innovative, beautifully designed and a favourite for anyone who journals, sketches or simply loves a good notebook. First on the list is Kyukyodo in Ginza, famous for its exquisite paper goods and high-quality calligraphy supplies. From 1891 to 1945, Kyukyodo even served as the official stationer of the Imperial House of Japan. Also featured on the list is Itoya, the stationery chain found across Japan. Its flagship in Ginza is especially worth a visit – it's a towering 12-storey stationery paradise stocked with everything from journals and fountain pens to postcards and desk accessories. Other standout souvenir shops include London's V&A for contemporary art pieces, Paris's Patrick Roger for indulgent praline bonbons, and The Fife Arms in Scotland, known for unique homeware.  View the

Finding a moment of calm in the chaos of city life isn’t always easy. Skyscrapers, traffic jams and the daily grind don’t exactly scream “relaxation” – but some cities have managed to strike a balance. According to international eSIM provider Holafly, Singapore is one of them, earning second place on its list of the world’s most relaxing cities in 2025. The ranking was determined by factors linked to physical and emotional well-being – this includes air quality, access to parks and nature reserves, the number of spas and wellness centres, average sunshine hours, public happiness levels and traffic conditions. Topping the list is San Diego, celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning coastline and year-round sunshine. Singapore follows close behind – and is notably the only Asian city to make the cut. While locals may raise an eyebrow at the finding, given the nation’s famously demanding work culture, the city’s abundance of green spaces, relatively smooth traffic and clean air are some of the factors that helped secure its place on the list. The most relaxing cities in the world in 2025: San Diego, USA Singapore, Singapore Vienna, Austria Sydney, Australia Melbourne, Australia Berlin, Germany Auckland, New Zealand Portland, USA Rome, Italy Helsinki, Finland Madrid, Spain Barcelona, Spain View the full list here. Did you know? These 4 Asian airports made Travel + Leisure’s list of the World’s Best International Airports for 2025 Plus: These are the most peaceful countri

When it comes to ancient Buddhist temples and elegant Shinto shrines, Kyoto is almost always top of the list. Japan’s former imperial capital draws countless visitors with its wealth of UNESCO World Heritage sites – and now there’s a new reason to stay longer. The opening of Courtyard by Marriott Kyoto Shijo Karasuma not only marks the brand’s debut in Kyoto, but also its ninth property in Japan. Set in the bustling Shijo district, the hotel places guests right in the heart of the action. Iconic attractions nearby include the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, where traditional machiya townhouses line lively shopping streets. Just a short stroll away is the Yasaka Shrine and the Gion geisha district, where you can still catch glimpses of geiko and maiko. Conveniently, the property is only a few minutes’ walk from both Shijo and Karasuma train stations, which provide direct connections to Osaka International Airport. The hotel offers 125 stylish guest rooms designed by architectural firm HBA, blending a contemporary palette with traditional Japanese elements like wood accents and textured fabrics. Guests can also dine at Le Bon Vivre, the all-day restaurant operated by Kyoto’s beloved Shinshindo bakery, serving everything from pastries to hearty Western-style breakfasts. Courtyard by Marriott Kyoto Shijo Karasuma is located at 668 Nijohanjikicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, 600-8412 Japan. Room rates currently start from SGD150 per night.  Book your stay here. Did you know? Pharrell William