With the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in the community has come the inevitable 'stabilisation' phase. Trust us, we're mourning the new restrictions on group sizes right along with you. Still, it pays to look on the bright side and remember that this is not even close to the full lockdown of last year. While we should do our very best to stay in and socially distance ourselves during this sensitive period, sometimes we need a break from the four walls of our room. When that time comes, here are the best things you can still do to let off steam alone or with a friend. And remember, mask up and stay responsible.
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It's normal to feel cooped up on Singapore's tiny island, so get off the mainland completely with a visit to our many offshore islands – best enjoyed with a friend of course. Some highlights: rediscover the kampong days at Pulau Ubin, enjoy a private beach getaway at Lazarus Island, or observe some marine life up close at Pulau Hantu.
If visiting the offshore islands is too much effort for you, then there's always the great outdoors right here at your doorstep. Almost every neighbourhood in Singapore has a beautiful park close by, and if you're willing to venture a bit further, there are also the superstar attractions like Singapore Botanic Gardens, Gardens by the Bay and Fort Canning Park. Want a secret hideaway to yourself? Check out these hidden pockets of greenery in the city too.
Or ditch the parks and take a walk on the wild side. Singapore still has tons of forgotten or unexplored wild places to see. Take some time out for these hidden gems that you never knew existed, or take a hike to these beautiful hidden trails. Remember to bring your friend along – you wouldn't want to get lost alone at these rustic spots.
If it isn't obvious yet, outdoor activities are all the rage right now and Singaporeans are picking up all sorts of sports that give them time in the sun. Join the masses and learn some cycling, rollerblading, skateboarding or water sports – these keep you healthy and active, doing wonders for your body and your mind.
While everyone is picking up new sports and hobbies, becoming a plant parent is quickly trending in the city. Start with a beginner plant that wouldn't take much effort to maintain before you dive deep into this hobby. We warn you, it is quite an addictive one. When you're ready to invest and indulge in this hobby, there are plenty of nurseries in Singapore you can pick up a new fern or monstera plant from.
Yes, cinemas have been open for a while now, and are still ready to welcome moviegoers. The only difference? You can go in a maximum group of two, masks on at all times, and absolutely no eating and drinking in the theatre unless you're in the special vaccinated halls. While we'll miss munching on popcorn, it's worth it to catch these upcoming flicks at our favourite cinemas in Singapore.
Shake off the blues at Singapore's many fun local attractions. Take your best bud to the reopened Adventure Cove Waterpark, or tick off these places from our list of the best and most underrated attractions on the island. With capacity limits in place to prevent overcrowding, you and your friend will be as safe as can be while having the whole place virtually to yourselves.
Culture vulture duos can still get their fix at Singapore's stellar museums. Catch Dale Chihuly's stunning and intricate glass sculptures at Gardens by the Bay, marvel at Antony Gormley's large-scale installations at the National Gallery, and dive into Japanese art and culture through woodblock prints and photography. Want more? Take this time to explore Singapore's hidden gems, including The Singapore Ant Museum, Kreta Ayer Heritage Gallery and Former Ford Factory.
Eating has and will always be the top national pastime – but shopping comes a close second. Our malls have significantly quietened now that dining-in has been restricted to two, but departmental stores, fashion outlets and other shopping destinations are still operational. Once in a while, skip the online shopping and step out for a jaunt with a friend: there are thrift stores, outlet malls, furniture shops and fancy grocery stores waiting for you.
As we say, the calories must still be burnt, and the gains must be kept. Gyms are still open, but if you're wary about being around other people in an indoor space, then there are plenty of outdoor and online workouts that should work for you. Stay motivated with a friend as you stretch and tone at the best yoga studios in town, break a light sweat at these outdoor gym sessions, and to be extra safe – stay indoors with these virtual classes.
Swimming pools are still open, so yes, head down for a splash (with one other person if you like). Ride the wave at Jurong East Swimming Complex, challenge yourself to the raft slides and flume rides at Wild Wild Wet or just do some laps at your neighbourhood pool. These venues are now operating at limited capacity, so do remember to book a slot beforehand via the attraction websites, or the ActiveSG app and myactivesg.com.
Staycations are still allowed as long as you go alone or in pairs, with strictly no mixing across rooms. Here's where your SingapoRediscover vouchers come in handy for you to snag places at fancy hotels like Andaz Singapore or boutiques like Lloyd's Inn. If you need some ideas, check out our guide to the best hotels for staycations in Singapore, as well as Klook and Trip.com for more deals and promotions.
These are challenging times, so find some solace in a book or five. If possible, get your books online. But if you really want to get out of the house, then visit some of our favourite public libraries and bookstores. Check out 16 books we're excited to read and 14 books that our team has read and loved for some inspiration.
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