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

​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

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.

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.

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.

Unleash your inner speed demon and zoom across the tracks of KF1 Karting Circuit, the largest go kart facility in Singapore. Located within walking distance of Kranji MRT station, this sprawling space in the 'countryside' of Singapore boasts a 960-metre track with 18 exhilarating corners, complete with a snazzy lighting system inspired by Formula 1 Grand Prix races. Novices can race at up to 30km/hour without requiring a driving license, while seasoned motorists can take the advanced karts that reach more exhilarating speeds of 50km/h. The cars run on petrol so there's no need to worry about them needing a recharge mid-circuit. You won't be at the mercy of the weather's mood swings either, because these karts are safe to ride even in the rain – if you don't mind getting a bit of a splash, that is.  Prices start from $80 for a four-hour run, though members can enjoy special prices from just $30 for the same duration. Parties and large corporate bookings for over 100 pax can be catered to as well. Find out more and make your booking via KF1 Karting Circuit's website.

Singapore isn’t known as a ‘Garden City’ for nothing. There’s nature to be found in just about every corner of this small island, from common spaces in HDB estates to little pockets of green even in more skyscraper-concentrated central areas like the business district. Yes, a lot of these are purposefully manicured and man-made, but they’re a sight for sore eyes and in any case, we’d say it’s a pretty impressive feat to pull off for a tiny country with little natural resources. It’s no surprise then that Singapore is one of the top cities in the world for having the most green spaces, ranking fourth for its 55 parks and nature-related attractions. We also rank 10th globally for having the most-visited green attractions, with all of them boasting a collective 377,000 reviews. With Tokyo ranking first globally (159 parks and nature attractions), Singapore scores second in Asia, while London (#2) and Paris (#3) fall nicely in between. But Tokyo isn’t the only Japanese city highlighted for its green beauty. Fukuoka (#18) and Osaka (#21) also get a mention. Other neighbouring Asian cities on the list include Seoul (#17) – third in Asia – as well as Kuala Lumpur (#46) and Mumbai (#48). This list by online design platform Freepik highlights the “futuristic of Gardens by the Bay” as well as the “tranquility of East Coast Park” as some examples of Singapore’s tranquil nature spaces that both locals and tourists can enjoy. While the report acknowledges the fact that the urbanisation of

As a third monsoon surge hits Singapore within the same quarter of 2025, our tropical island is now experiencing heavy rainfall and ‘air-con weather’ in the low 20-degrees range. Some might welcome this change from the usual scorching heat, while others might find our rain-soaked streets a dreary scene, but whichever it is, it’s safe to say that we all wish to stay dry and not be the sorry victims of flash floods and other weather-related inconveniences. To tide you through this monsoon season, here are some handy survival tips including how to check for live flood updates. Subscribe to the PUB Flood Alerts Telegram channel Photograph: Time Out It’s hard for us noobs to accurately predict where flash floods will occur, but Singapore’s Public Utilities Board (PUB) is always one step ahead. Join the @pubfloodalerts Telegram group to receive live alerts on which areas in Singapore are experiencing heavy downpours and are at risk of flash floods, estimated timings included, so you'll know where to avoid. You might even get more timely updates from this chatbot than from that dude you’re in a toxic situationship with. Download the free myENV app by NEA Photograph: Time Out To be doubly prepared, you can also download the myENV app by the National Environment Agency (NEA) to get alerts on drain water levels, flooding, and lightning. But this free app isn’t only useful in rainy weather – it also provides information on all sorts of environmental conditions, including haze, heat

Spring beckons at Raffles Hotel once again with yet another return of its highly raved sakura afternoon tea, a yearly seasonal affair that often sees sold-out seats. 2025’s version has plenty of delectable morsels tweaked from last year’s, so your tastebuds are in for a whole new adventure – with the same delicate floral flavours of springtime. Photograph: Raffles Hotel In romantic hues of pastel pink, the sweet treats as part of this three-tiered set include cherry blossom-infused items like a sakura azuki roll cake; sakura raspberry mont blanc; sakura tea shortcake; and the refreshing sakura coconut miso verrine – a triple-layered treat of sakura jelly, coconut miso panna cotta, and coconut jelly. Cut through all the sweetness with the shiso yuzu sablé that’s topped with elegant gold flakes. The savoury items include cold bites like the crab salad tart with tobiko, inari beef teriyaki, and salmon avocado maki. In lieu of the usual finger sandwiches that often make an appearance in afternoon tea sets is a tamagoyaki sando – a Japanese classic. Photograph: Raffles Hotel Adding on to that is a variety of not one, not two, but three home-made scones, each in a different flavour: original, raisin, and a less commonly-seen savoury version. You’ll also get your choice of Jing tea, or a custom Raffles coffee blend. Alternatively, add some buzz to the afternoon with a glass of Sakura Sling ($28) – a floral twist on the iconic Singapore Sling – or Billecart-Salmon champagne (from

Singapore has done it again – we’ve landed ourselves a coveted spot on Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2025 list in the ‘Places to Stay’ category, but it's probably not what most are expecting. Think of the best hotels in Singapore and big names like Raffles Hotel and Capella would immediately come to mind – after all, both of them recently scored a five-star rating in the Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards 2025. But Time Magazine sings a different tune by choosing to honour a new entrant, and a less pricey one at that: Boutique hotel QT Singapore. It’s the very first QT Hotel outside of Australia and New Zealand, and only just opened its doors to guests in September last year. According to Time, its team sought out “one-of-a-kind spots and experiences around the globe” to come up with a final unranked list of 100 best venues across the world. And QT Singapore has caught Time’s eye for being housed in a restored 1920s colonial building, its proximity to Lau Pa Sat which made an appearance in Crazy Rich Asians, and “luxe Nic Graham-designed suites kitted out with marble rain showers and Kevin Murphy toiletries”. The hotel along Robinson Road is also lauded for its lively common spaces including Cygnet Bar – where you can enjoy $1 oysters and $10 cocktails – as well as the rooftop bar that’s right near the open-air lap pool. Photograph: QT Hotels & Resorts QT Singapore has bragging rights as the only establishment from Singapore that is featured as part of Time’s World’s

If all things immersive like Future World by teamLab, Sentosa Sensoryscape, and the various 360-degree art experiences by Groundseesaw like Monet Inside are your type of jam, you’ll be thrilled to hear of what’s upcoming at Gardens by the Bay. A new arts venue called IMBA Theatre is opening within the sprawling nature park, and despite its name, it’s not so much of a theatre per se – but rather, a large-scale visual arts attraction with a focus on stunning multi-sensory experiences. One exciting highlight at IMBA Theatre is the Black Box, a massive 20,000 square feet space with a 12.5-metre-high projection wall that comes alive with colourful animations and futuristic, interactive art. Another zone to check out is the high-ceilinged Gallery Space that’s designed to host both traditional and mixed media exhibitions, so you can probably expect special showcases featuring paintings, photo-worthy installations and the like. Photograph: IMBA While there, check out IMBA Theatre’s curated retail and dining options that are expected to be in line with its whole creative, immersive setting. IMBA Theatre is slated to open in December 2025, starting with The Botero Show – a fascinating exhibition that spotlights illustrative works and iconic sculptures by Columbian artist Fernando Botero. For the uninitiated, Botero’s art actually exists in multiple spots across our country; You’re sure to have seen his chubby bronze Bird at Raffles Place, Dancing Couple at St Regis Hotel, and Dressed

Great news if Korea is on your travel hit list this year, because one of South Korea’s top budget airlines, Jeju Air, has just launched a new direct flight route from Singapore to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport. While there’s already no shortage of non-stop budget flights between the two locations – namely via Scoot and T'way Air – this new addition by Jeju Air provides K-crazy Singaporeans even more options to choose from, and is set to give its competitors a good run for their money. Prior to this, there was only one non-stop service operating between Singapore and Korea via Jeju Air – from Changi Airport to Gimhae International Airport in Busan. While Busan is also a highly popular travel destination, its Korea’s capital that draws in the largest crowds, thanks to its array of cute cafés, amazing street eats, cosmetic stores and – dare we say – oppa sightings. The first flight commences on July 25 and Jeju Air is currently running a launch sale till March 31, with prices for trips between July 25 to October 26, 2025. According to a recent Facebook post by Jeju Air’s official account, the total cost of one-way flights starts from $245. So assuming you get to secure the lowest possible prices both ways, you can rejoice in forking out less than $500 ($490, to be exact) for a round trip.  This pricing – under the airline’s Flybag category – includes 10kg cabin baggage allowance and 15kg checked baggage allowance. Photograph: Jeju Air Flights operate daily both ways vi

Amidst the rows and rows of lighting stores, bak kut teh eateries, and questionable-looking hourly hotels along Balestier sits the modest Shaw Plaza. And within that, lies Pan Fresco, a relatively new bakery-café that you probably wouldn’t have heard of if you haven’t recently set foot in the small neighbourhood shopping mall. After all, Shaw Plaza isn’t the sort of place one would specially plan an outing to – but perhaps this might just change your mind. We chanced upon Pan Fresco while making a random bathroom pit stop at the mall. The cosy-looking café certainly stands out against the rest of the cookie-cutter F&B selection which includes the likes of Burger King, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Ya Kun, Collin’s, and what have you – the usual establishments that exist in most other estates across Singapore. Photograph: Pan Fresco We were further drawn in by the prices, which start from an affordable $1.80 for a baguette, $3 for a raisin cream danish or kouign amann, and $3.80 for a fruit danish or almond Hokkaido milk loaf. For something more loaded, there’s a filled hazelnut chocolate croissant, cube pastries in flavours like green tea and Biscoff, and a pistachio croissant which seems to be a crowd favourite. These, as well as the savoury ham and cheese croissant with salted egg yolk sauce, will only set you back $5.80 per piece. Other fresh bakes here include croffles, mushroom cheese focaccia, and lemon tarts – but keep your options open as the exact selection on hand m

Changi Airport has been looking extra cute as of late with Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary celebrations. And now that the Sanrio gang has jetted off back to Japan, it’s Dutch rabbit Miffy’s turn to spread the birthday joy with both travellers and casual visitors of Singapore’s airport. Also known as Nijntje in her hometown of The Netherlands, the little white bunny is commemorating 70 years this 2025 – and specially abloom for the occasion is Miffy’s Garden at Changi Airport, just in time for the March school holidays. The great centrepiece of Miffy’s Garden is a giant installation of Miffy standing next to a colourful hot air balloon, amidst a sea of red and yellow tulips. This is located at the public area of Terminal 3’s Departure hall, along with a statue of Miffy’s dog Snuffy with his kennel. Photograph: Changi Airport Group Not too far from that is Miffy’s Playground, an inflatable playland with a ball pit that kiddos can hop right into. Entry tickets are available for purchase at $15, but if you’re going to be shopping or eating at Changi Airport anyway, you get to redeem a discounted pass for just $5. Simply spend a minimum of $50 (or $80 for supermarkets) at any participating outlets across all four terminals of the airport’s public areas, excluding Jewel Changi. But the fun isn’t over just yet. Make sure you also head down to Basement 2 of the same terminal for more character-themed photo spots in the form of standees and staircase decals. Photograph: Changi Airpo

Singapore’s turning 60 this year, and we’re the ones getting all the presents. To celebrate this big milestone, there are plenty of vouchers and cash credits given out to citizens as part of the Singapore Budget for 2025 – and on top of those goodies, we’re also looking forward to the slew of fun SG60 deals and discounts that both Singaporeans and PRs get to enjoy at local attractions. Think various entertainment venues at Sentosa, outdoor obstacle course Forest Adventure, and even a pipe organ concert by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. Those with kiddos in tow will also take delight in discounts at child-friendly places like Pororo Park and Kiztopia – there’s truly something for the whole family. While quite a handful of the SG60 deals are already in place, others will be progressively rolled out throughout the rest of 2025, so your weekends will be well-occupied with different activities across the months. To ensure you don’t miss out on any of them, we’ve put together an ultimate list of all the SG60 deals to keep an eye out for, including their respective validity periods and booking links. Now you’re all set to explore our own backyard at a fraction of the cost – just don’t forget to bring along your IC for verification. 1. Wings of Time Fireworks Symphony Deal: $0.60 ticketsUsual price: $22Validity: Until March 28, 2025 2. Gardens by the Bay Deal: Unlimited Flower Dome entry for $22Usual price: $12 per visitValidity: Until October 12, 2025 (pass must be purchased by M

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 is returning to our shores once again, and this time, they’re here to stay. This viral kakigori café will be joining forces with Drips Bakery Café and setting 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 de

If there’s one reason for you to make the journey from your ‘hood to Sentosa this month, let it be this: Sentosa’s newly revamped Wings of Time Fireworks Symphony has a special deal for $0.60 tickets (U.P. $22), no strings attached. This is all part of Singapore’s SG60 birthday celebrations, where Singaporeans and Permanent Residents get to enjoy discounted prices to various attractions across the island. There's no need to hem and haw about this one– $0.60 can’t even buy you a drink at a hawker centre these days, and you’ll essentially be experiencing this captivating light, sound, and water show along the scenic Siloso Beach for next to nothing. To top it all off, the 20-minute night extravaganza closes with a fireworks display, the perfect way to end your evening with a literal bang. Photograph: Sentosa The only catch? The 60-cent Wings of Time promotion is only valid for weekday shows, excluding Fridays. But the good news is that each night’s show only starts at 8.40pm, which gives you sufficient time to make your way down after work and grab a meal at a leisurely pace before settling down for the show. Sentosa has no shortage of eateries, including the relatively new Camille that’s located in the gorgeous 1-Flowerhill – a charming colonial site decorated with florals. After the show, pop by Sentosa Sensoryscape for more immersive fun in six sensory gardens. Best part? It’s free of charge. If you’re visiting Sentosa on a weekend instead, make sure to take advantage of

Scoot was recently crowned one of the best low-cost airlines in the world – and you’re going to have to hold your horses before you attempt to dispute that. The low-cost sister airline of Singapore Airlines has just bagged itself another accolade, earning itself the title of ‘Value Airline of the Year’ as part of the Air Transport World (ATW) 51st Annual Airline Industry Achievement Awards. This achievement calls for even more celebration as it marks the first time any airline has won the same ATW award twice in a row. As for the top award? It’s Japan’s All Nippon Airways – also known as ANA – that’s been named the Airline of the Year for 2025 based on factors of “strong financial performance, innovative management leadership, commitment to ever-improving customer service, and dedication to aviation sustainability”, according to ATW. Other winning airlines include Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific (Eco-Airline of the Year and Cargo Operator of the Year) and USA’s Sun Country (Airline Market Leader of the Year). Singapore Airlines, which recently scored fifth in the latest global ranking by Airline Ratings, is not one of the award-winners for this year’s ATW awards. The results were derived through joint evaluation by industry experts from Aviation Week Network’s ATW, CAPA Centre for Aviation, and Routes, though ATW has yet to release any in-depth details on why exactly Scoot has been chosen. But with direct flights from Singapore to Vienna from just $309 and plenty of other destina