Rachel Yohannan

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

Working up a sweat in a gym or HIIT studio is a great way to stay active, but sometimes, an outdoor run can do wonders for the mind. After all, it’s a relatively fuss-free way to stay fit without the need for expensive gym memberships – and it's a welcome bonus when there are great views to make the journey seem less tiring. Here’s a rundown of scenic running routes across various zones in Singapore. If you’re looking to soak in the fresh air and stunning scenery while testing your fitness limits, sign up for Singapore T100 and challenge yourself on April 5 and 6 at Marina Bay. RECOMMENDED: The best gyms in Singapore and Cheap gyms with memberships under $100

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s the season of giving and if you haven’t already started your gift hunt, the best time is now lest you end up stuck in a last-minute scramble. Some say that women are easier to shop for than men, but with the sheer plethora of choices out there, this can still prove to be a daunting task. If you’re still looking for presents for the lovely women in your life – be it your significant other, mum, or sister – check out our list of Christmas 2024 gift ideas that are sure to bring a smile to their faces. RECOMMENDED: The best Christmas gifts in Singapore for men and The best Christmas dinners in Singapore

If you’re a repeat visitor to Japan – as many other Singaporeans are by now – then you probably have some favourites on your must-eat list for each trip. But instead of queueing for ages at Ichiran Ramen, batting the hordes at Dotonbori’s street stalls, or going back to the same old fast food chains for the umpteenth time, it’s high time to venture out of the usual big cities and try something new for a change; We’re talking about exploring Japan’s less-frequented regions in search of the best gastronomical treasures that are unique to each area. Doing that doesn’t have to be a daunting task either, because things just got a lot more convenient with the newly extended Hokuriku Shinkansen route that takes you along the Hokuriku region – covering prefectures like Ishikawa, Fukui, and Toyama. The best part? Hokuriku is easily accessible from Tokyo, so you can book a flight from Singapore to the capital and traverse up to these hidden gems. Excited to escape from the tourist crowds, we hopped onto the high-speed Hokuriku bullet train and had a satisfying foodie adventure in Ishikawa prefecture, where we uncovered the local delights of Kanazawa, Noto, and Kaga. From the freshest and widest variety of seafood, to a highly rare breed of wagyu, and traditional sweets made using age-old recipes, here are the best things to eat in Ishikawa, Japan. P.S.: Food in Ishikawa aside, stay till the end to check out our recommendations for other things to do in the Hokuriku region for an all-ro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bringing a slice of Japan to Jurong is Joya Onsen Café, the very first onsen complex in Singapore. Just like the real thing, it has communal baths separated according to gender, though couples can also book the private onsen for some one-on-one time. Once you've soaked your stresses away, put on a yukata and head on over to the in-house café for some refreshing Hokkaido milk ($5), ramen and udon (from $12.90), rice bowls (from 14.90) or desserts including seasonal wagashi ($6 for five pieces). Book your tickets in advance here and check out the latest promotions here.

Japanese-owned Nook Hair & Nail Salon isn’t just a place to get your beauty needs sorted. As its name suggests, it’s a quiet hideout where you can fully unwind and give yourself the pampering you deserve. Furnished mainly with wooden and brown-toned pieces, and accented with plants and flowers, the spacious Duxton shophouse unit just around the corner from hotel Mondrian Singapore Duxton is full of zen vibes. It’s tip top Japanese-style hospitality right off the bat, and each hair stylist here has their own speciality – be it layered cuts, dye jobs, or hair reconstruction treatments. Try the highly raved head spa treatments, which nourish and purify the scalp and come with a relaxing head massage that might just have you drifting off to dreamland. As a cherry on top, all patrons will be served a complimentary beverage of their choice, along with a little snack, which can range from flavoured popcorn to Japanese tidbits. Classic gel manicures start from $110 nett, and you'll be in great hands with a skilled Japanese nail artist with more than a decade's worth of experience. Whether it's trending 3D jelly designs, Pokémon-inspired art, or Christmassy bejewelled looks, she'll be able to pull off just about anything to your request. Eyelash extensions are also on the menu, with 80-strand sets priced at $80 nett. Check out Nook’s full price list here.

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

Popular Japanese lifestyle chain Tokyu Hands has undergone a revamp, and they’re now simply known as Hands across Japan and its overseas outposts. But a change in name and logo isn’t all there is to it – they’ve also revamped their selection of products in Singapore with over 1,200 new offerings, including items that are exclusive to our Little Red Dot. Some of these Singapore exclusives include premium stationery, specific ranges of the popular Lululun face masks, HARIO Immersion Dripper Switch coffee dripper, and adorable stickers that feature local motifs like the Merlion. If you’re a fan of personalised stationery, check out the premium Pilot MR3 fountain pens which come with Japanese-inspired designs and complimentary name engraving services. Of course, the usual favourites like Japanese cosmetics, kitchenware, plushies, and adorable collectibles like Sonny Angels blind boxes remain.

There has been much chatter surrounding an upcoming Shonen Jump pop-up that will be unveiled at Jewel Changi in May, but little do anime-lovers know that there’s already an existing pop-up by the Japanese manga anthology right under our noses. That’s right – you don’t have to wait all the way till next month and travel to the airport for your fix, because Kinokuniya’s main branch at Ngee Ann City (Takashimaya) is currently hosting its own limited-time Shonen Jump event. This news comes shortly after the bittersweet announcement of NBC Stationery & Gifts’ Raffles City store closure. The beloved retail store from Japan is also under the Kinokuniya group, and it’s currently having a big clearance sale with items going at up to 80 percent off as it prepares to shutter its doors for good. Photograph: Kinokuniya Singapore The Shonen Jump pop-up at Kinokuniya features collectibles such as acrylic character standees, postcards, A4 plastic folders, pin badges, posters, blind pack trinkets and more from some of the most iconic anime and manga franchises around. These include titles such as Naruto, One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen, Haikyuu, Demon Slayer, Katekyo Hitman Reborn!, Gintama, Chainsaw Man, Spy x Family, and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Knock yourselves out, fellow weebs. There isn't any end date specified for this Shonen Jump pop-up so far, so make sure you head down as soon as possible before the pop-up disappears. Check back on this article again as we’ll update it once we have the

In a time of 9 percent GST and impending economic adversity due to recent trade tariffs, most of us regular Singaporean folk are probably re-looking our budgets for this year. Even so, a new report by Henley & Partners and New World Health reveals that Singapore is still one of the richest cities in the world – though most of us arguably aren’t exactly getting a share of that dough. Singapore scores fourth in a ranking of 50 wealthiest cities worldwide, coming just under New York City (#1) and the San Francisco Bay Area (#2) in the United States of America, followed by Tokyo, Japan (#3). This doesn’t exactly come as a surprise because all these cities are known to be highly expensive places to live in, and thus naturally attract those with the financial means to afford the high cost of living there. Other usual suspects like Los Angeles (#5), London (#6), and Paris (#7) take the next few top spots after Singapore. The list is based on the total number of millionaires in each city, and Singapore has a whopping 242,400 of them – that’s an insane 62 percent increase over the past 10 years. In comparison, the other two Asian cities in the top 10 – namely Tokyo and Hong Kong (#8 globally) – have only seen a rise of 3 to 4 percent for their total number of millionaires over the span of a decade. To add on to that, Singapore is also home to 333 centi-millionaires and 30 billionaires. It’s worth noting that the study takes into account residents living in each city, so this includes

Yoshikazu Mera, Sumi Shimamoto, and Azumi Inoue – you may not recognise these names, but you’ve most certainly heard their voices if you’ve ever watched any of Studio Ghibli’s most celebrated animated films. These talented singers are the very ones behind theme songs of movies like My Neighbour Totoro, Princess Mononoke, and Laputa: Castle in the Sky, and they’re all heading to Singapore for a performance this June. The Music of Studio Ghibli – Original Singers Symphony is not to be confused with the upcoming Joe Hisaishi concert in July; The latter is a non-vocal classical music recital, featuring Hisaishi on the piano accompanied by a harpist and the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. On the other hand, this performance will give you a rare chance to hear your favourite Ghibli tunes being sung by their original vocalists in the flesh. The aforementioned trio of songbirds will be joined by Inoue’s daughter Yuyu – a young rising star herself – and backed by the 17-member-strong Tokyo Asia Orchestra, whose accompaniment will help draw out all the rich emotions in each song. The Music of Studio Ghibli – Original Singers Symphony is a one-night-only event held at The Star Theatre on June 11, 2025 at 8pm. Ticketing details have yet to be announced. Find out more here. READ MORE Australia's Gelato Messina is coming to Singapore Starbucks Singapore's new 2-storey shophouse outlet: Murals, store exclusives, giant Merlion Bearista and more There’s a new underground mall connected to Telok

With Chinatown being full of amazing traditional teahouses and kopi spots, it seems almost laughable for one to crave their usual Starbucks order there. But we’re not gonna judge you for flocking to the cult coffee chain’s newest outlet in this historic area, because it’s the first-ever Starbucks branch that’s occupying a heritage shophouse in Singapore, with two storeys to boast of. Photograph: Starbucks     This aesthetically-pleasing locale isn’t simply for the vibes; All the decor and even the merchandise and drinks are curated in a way that tastefully pays homage to this cultural district’s rich storied past. This is already evident from the signages on the outside, where the Chinese characters “星巴克” (“Starbucks” in Mandarin) are plastered on a pillar as well as on a black doorway plaque in gilded gold font, just like the kind you’d find along the entrances of other preserved shophouses in the area. These were painstakingly handcrafted by local masters of calligraphy and wood carving.   Photograph: Starbucks   Step into the retail space on the ground floor, where a giant Merlion Bearista plush statue – a great photo point – sits on a pedestal alongside shelves of store-exclusive merchandise. Some of these are designed in collaboration with JunleFont, a talented local calligraphy artist with autism. Spot the cute local twists to Starbucks’ collectible mugs, tumblers, and stuffed bears – items that are perfect as souvenirs for your friends from overseas.   Photograph:

It’s a tough time for retail in Singapore, especially bookstores. In the span of less than half a year, we’ve seen the shuttering of the last-ever Times Bookstore on the island, as well as the demise of Epigram Coffee Bookshop and downsizing of Books Kinokuniya at Takashimaya. And now, we’ve just got word that Kinokuniya’s affiliated stationery brand NBC Stationery & Gifts will also be closing its Raffles City outlet this coming May. Hailing from Japan, NBC first started out as a postcard company way back in the 1960s and eventually set up its first (now-defunct) store in Singapore at Liang Court in 1983. Over the years, the brand has become well-loved for not just its wide range of premium Japanese stationery, but also its character-themed merch featuring IPs like Rilakkuma, Sumikko Gurashi, Studio Ghibli, Sanrio, Smiski, Mofusand and more. Think plushies, notebooks, stickers, blind box figurines, and even jigsaw puzzles that you typically wouldn’t be able to find elsewhere in Singapore. There’s also an ever-rotating collection of Ichiban Kuji from San-X and Sanrio, where you pay a set price for a ‘lucky draw’ ticket to snag a cute sure-win prize. Being imported from Japan, all these covetable merchandise often come with a certain price point. But as part of the closing sale, you’ll be able to snag some items at discounted rates – some for as low as 80 percent off their original prices. The last day of operation of NBC’s Raffles City store is on May 4, 2025. The silver linin

Serangoon BBQ & Curry broke many hearts when it announced the permanent closure of its Sin Ming hawker stall earlier in January this year. Loved for its signature barbecued meat dishes and Peranakan-style nasi padang, this humble but popular family-run business has amassed plenty of regulars over the past 40-odd years – and what a run it’s been. But all good things come to an end, and Uncle Tan and Auntie Cheong – the elderly couple behind some of our favourite dishes – are now enjoying their well-deserved retirement as we speak. But their culinary legacy lives on. Keen to continue bringing his family’s recipes to the masses at accessible price points, their son Eugene recently launched a modern offshoot of SBC at Junction 8 with tweaked versions of old favourites and fresh new items. Though some may be skeptical about a hawker-turned-quick-service concept, Serangoon BBQ & Curry 2.0 at Bishan quickly proved to be a hit. With bowls priced from just $8.90, air-conditioning, and the option to pre-order a takeaway, it certainly checks multiple boxes for hungry folks of all ages seeking convenience, comfort, and honest-to-goodness local flavours. If you haven’t found the chance to get a taste of SBC’s nosh due its heartland location being out of the way, you’ll be glad to know that there’s now a second branch at Raffles Specialist Centre, just a short walk from Bugis MRT station. This outlet has everything you’d get at the Bishan branch and more, with special menu exclusives like

How many hours of sleep did you get last night? Chances are, the answer is “not enough”. Hearing the people around you declare how tired they are seems to be a common daily occurrence here – sometimes even uttered as though it’s a greeting of sorts – and you’re probably one of the culprits yourself. That’s because people in Singapore are losing out on an average of 1 hour and 19 minutes of their ideal sleep duration each night, according to furniture giant Ikea’s global sleep report for 2025. That’s equivalent to being deprived of 20 full days of rest each year – just let that sink in. Some of us don’t even get 20 days of annual leave! According to the report, 40 percent of Singaporeans wake up feeling tired every day, and that’s more than thrice the global average of 12 percent. Generally, an adult requires seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep every night, but the total amount of sleep that people in Singapore get clocks in at slightly under 6.5 hours. The irony in all of this is that a large percentage of the population – 83 percent, to be exact – views sleep as one of the greatest joys in life, and 74 percent would much rather stay in and snooze instead of heading out to socialise with friends and family. As for what’s robbing us of our precious Z’s, it’s reportedly stress that’s the main hindrance – both work-related and general stress (40 percent). Insomnia and other forms of sleeping disorders (11 percent) are another barrier that gets in the way of quality sleep

When Japanese shaved ice café Sakanoue first opened its pop-up at Isetan Scotts in 2023, Singaporeans flocked over in the hordes and created snaking queues that lasted hours. So crazy was the demand for its kakigori that it was often sold out by early afternoon. It returned a year later for another pop-up which was met with the same sort of fanfare, so we were just a wee bit blindsided when they chose to open their first permanent branch outside of Japan in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia instead of our sunny island. But our time has finally come. Sakanoue has returned to our shores again, and this time, it's here to stay. This viral kakigori café joins forces with Drips Bakery Café to set up shop in its Tiong Bahru outlet, so café-hoppers can enjoy tarts, brunch fare and other bakes, as well as Japanese shaved ice, all in a single visit. Photograph: Sakanoue What sort of kakigori is worth waiting hours in line for? According to Sakanoue, the secret lies in its star ingredient: premium Kuramoto Ice from Kanazawa, which is said to melt less quickly and helps uphold the snowy texture of the kakigori and integrity of flavours. This, paired with a dollop of cream – and seasonal topping combinations like blue cheese with miso, pistachio with wine-soaked raspberries, and pear marinated in olive oil with dill sauce and pink pepper – make for winning combinations that keep patrons coming back for more. Some of the kakigori flavours even come with cute animal-themed designs, where cats and p

You can’t say you’re a true Studio Ghibli fan without knowing who Joe Hisaishi is. The famed Japanese composer, conductor and pianist is almost synonymous with the works of filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki – after all, he did create the soundtracks for pretty much all the Ghibli movies directed by Miyazaki. These include iconic titles like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl's Moving Castle, with the latest one being The Boy and the Heron in 2023.  Don’t miss this chance to watch the classical music legend himself perform his celebrated tunes live on the piano, together with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) and harpist Emmanuel Ceysson from the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Titled The Harp, The Heron and Firebird, this musical collaboration marks the world premier of Hisaishi’s Symphonic Suite The Boy and the Heron – where the theme music of the whimsical animated film is brought to life for audiences for the first time ever. Your ears will also be treated to the Asian debut of Hisaishi’s lilting Harp Concerto, along with a rendition of the grand orchestral Firebird Ballet Suite by Stravinsky and more. The Harp, The Heron and Firebird is running for just two days on July 3 and 4, 2025 at Esplanade Concert Hall. Tickets start from $48 and go all the way up to $388. Find out more and get your tickets via Sistic starting from April 7, 2025, 10am.   When is Joe Hisaishi coming to Singapore in 2025? Japanese pianist-composer Joe Hisaishi will be performing in Singapore on July 3

So many public holidays, so little time. With us corporate slaves having limited annual leave, the key to being able to take multiple holidays in a year all lies in strategic planning, with many of us opting for weekend trips to nearby destinations. With places like Bali, Bintan and Johor Bahru already becoming long done and dusted, restless wanderlusters are in search of more – and you might just find what you’re looking for in Phu Quoc, an underrated island getaway in Vietnam. And with low-cost airline Vietjet’s new direct flight route between Singapore and Phu Quoc, getting your fix of the sun, sand and sea is now more accessible than before. According to Vietjet, one-way promotional fares start from just $86, excluding baggage but inclusive of taxes and other fees – but in order to secure such prices, you’ll have to lock in your booking real quick by April 5, 2025, for trips between April 14, 2025 to March 28, 2026. Otherwise, the budget airline also has weekly Friday deals where you can enjoy similarly discounted fares for trips till October 25, 2025, so set a reminder on your phone to avoid missing out. The Friday deals are applicable to Vietjet’s other destinations and are not limited to Phu Quoc. Photograph: Shutterstock This isn’t the only non-stop between Singapore and Phu Quoc; Scoot also recently launched direct flights to Phu Quoc, as well as Padang in Indonesia and Shantou in China. However, Scoot’s flights are slightly pricier, with a return trip often costin

You’d probably have seen countless social media posts on the famous floral ice cream cones from (THISIS)SHIZEN in Kyoto, and perhaps even queued up to try those aesthetically-pleasing treats out for yourself. But if you never did get the chance to do so, you’ll be glad to know that a similar-looking ‘flowering ice cream’ – also from Japan – is coming to our shores in a cute food truck. This ‘flowering ice cream’ isn’t affiliated with the famous OG, but rather, is created by Japanese Ajinomoto Co. — yes, the company responsible for MSG, which gives your food that extra kick of umami. What you may not know, however, is that Ajinomoto Co. also owns a ton of other seasoning products, frozen food brands, and even nutrition supplements. This floral ice cream isn’t just a pretty sight. It’s made using Solein, a natural and sustainable microbial protein that not only helps enhance the natural flavours of both sweet and savoury food, but also comes with health benefits thanks to being packed with nutrients like animo acids, vitamin B12, and iron. Chef Mirko Febbrile of Singapore’s Fico and Somma has also used Solein as an ingredient in his menus. Photograph: Atlr.72 Try this pretty ice cream three flavours: vanilla with mochi, as well as the dairy-free chocolate with lemon peel, and salty caramel with nuts. A single scoop costs $7 while a double scoop costs $13 – much cheaper than Kyoto’s viral ones that are priced at around $12 per cone. These will be adorned with a random assortme

While many of us were gearing up to celebrate the Hari Raya long weekend on February 28, 2025, devastation was unfolding in Mandalay – Myanmar’s second-largest city – after a massive 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit without warning. Parts of Thailand also felt the tremors, and in a move that no one saw coming, its capital Bangkok also experienced a fair share of damage. A collapsed skyscraper, exploding hotel pool, and a growing number of casualties pulled out from under the rubble – these sound like something out of a terrifying doomsday blockbuster, but sadly, they’re the very real result of this earth-rattling disaster.  As our hearts go out to both the people of Myanmar and Thailand, we know that a lot of you Bangkok-loving Singaporeans have one question on your minds: Is it safe to travel to Bangkok right now? Read on if you should postpone or refrain from booking any upcoming weekend trips for the time being, especially since there’s a public holiday long weekend just around the corner. Is it safe to go to Bangkok after the Myanmar earthquake? Bangkok isn’t typically susceptible for earthquakes – which makes the recent March 2025 one even more of a shocker to both locals and tourists in the city. Bangkok is also geographically far from the epicentre of the earthquake in Myanmar. The short answer is: Yes, Bangkok is still relatively safe to visit despite the recent earthquake, as it seems like the worst is over. Bear in mind that aftershocks could happen two to three weeks a