Rachel Yohannan

Our mums are superstars all year round, but this is the one time of the year where you have the perfect excuse to show extra appreciation toward her. Other than treating her to a delicious Mother’s Day meal or planning a Mother’s Day outing with fun bonding activities like jewellery workshops or strolling through a flower display, you can add a sweeter note to the occasion by blessing her with a thoughtful treat. These local bakeries and dessert stores in Singapore are whipping up special Mother’s Day treats, ranging from cute macarons to a warabimochi cake and even pistachio mille crepe inspired by the latest Dubai chocolate trend.  RECOMMENDED: The best cake shops in Singapore and The best florists in Singapore for any occasion

As far as local landmarks go, Raffles Hotel Singapore is by far one of the most iconic – and not just for its grand postcard-worthy exteriors. Though impeccably well-maintained, this five-star hotel retains its classic colonial charm harking back to the 1800s, and staying here is a premium experience right from the moment you encounter their unmistakable doormen. Plus, it's just been crowned the 17th best hotel in the World's 50 Best Hotels 2023 list, ranking a few spots above Capella, which gives you all the more reason to check it out. Even if you haven't booked one of their luxury suites, there's still plenty to explore within the hotel's sprawling grounds, from its gorgeous lawn area, to the marvel-worthy architecture, and its in-house lifestyle destination, Raffles Arcade. Read on for our guide on the best of Raffles Hotel.

Whether you're a regular runner or just looking to get moving, Singapore has no shortage of scenic trails that make your time outdoors worth it. From quiet nature trails to breezy coastal paths, we’ve rounded up some of the best running routes across the island. So lace up, head outside and get a dose of fresh air.  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 nature trails in Singapore and The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore  

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

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

You’re probably thinking of the traditional Singaporean toast spread, but don’t be mistaken – this isn’t a mod-Sin establishment. Instead, Kaya is short for ‘izakaya’, so expect Japanese flavours with a bold modern twist. The restobar is located within The Standard, Singapore, a new boutique hotel in Orchard with Hollywood roots and art in every corner. The vibe  Forget the typical gritty smoke-filled izakayas where patrons are crammed in shoulder to shoulder. Kaya at The Standard is roomy and elegant with botanical wallpaper, rattan chairs, and plants cascading from the ceiling – mid-century meets tropical, if you will. For a more casual vibe, opt to sip and dine at the chill outdoor patio that’s shrouded in greenery. The food  Brace your palate for Japanese flavours like you’ve never experienced before. You can’t go wrong by starting with sharing a refreshing pakuchi salad ($14), a simple but addictive poached chicken and cabbage salad topped with cilantro, shiso and ume dressing. The ash karaage ($18), charcoal-grilled oyster-yaki ($32) and burrata no shoyu ($22) with honey shoyu jam and renkon chips are also good choices to split before digging into an indulgent kani meshi nabe ($68) – a stone pot rice dish brimming with snow crab, ikura and uni creme. Don’t leave without trying the sweet potato mont blanc ($16), the perfect autumnal treat of three types of Japanese sweet potato, pistachio sponge and chestnuts. The drink  Creative Japanese-inspired versions of classic coc

Relive the magic of your childhood days with a new Peter Rabbit-themed afternoon tea experience that's hopped its way into Singapore for a limited period of time. In homage to the beloved storybook series by acclaimed children's author Beatrix Potter, each indulgent set comes with sweet and savoury English garden-inspired nibbles – including those shaped like apples, a pot of flowers, and blueberry basket – and adorable themed decor that you can take home as souvenirs. Special care has also been taken to include bunny-friendly ingredients, such as soft seeds, fruits and vegetables. Best of all, you get to enjoy all of this in an elegant lounge on the 70th floor, with sweeping views of Singapore's landmarks and surrounding seas as a backdrop. Find out more about our experience at this Peter Rabbit afternoon tea.

Orchard Road’s newest hotel has recently opened to welcome guests, and it’s one with Hollywood roots. With a name like The Standard, there can only be one of two outcomes – it either sets the, well, standard for other hotels in Singapore’s central shopping district, or risks falling short of its ambitious name in an unfortunate case of irony (see also: café in Singapore called Average Service). Upon Googling images of the hotel along Orange Grove, I was initially a tad doubtful. I could already tell that this wasn’t a particularly sprawling hotel, and while modern as advertised, it didn’t seem to have any standout features – no gym, club lounge, spa and the like. Yet, curious to find out what exactly it is that makes The Standard brand so popular around the world with a presence in more than 10 cities including New York, Ibiza, and Miami, I packed a bag for a one-night stay with no expectations. The short verdict? Whoever was doing the initial stock photography for the hotel certainly didn’t do it justice, and there’s lots more to discover in person. Read on for our full review of The Standard, Singapore. About The Standard hotel group Photograph: Rachel Yohannan for Time OutThe very first Standard Hotel was unveiled along the Sunset Strip in Hollywood back in 1999. That debut branch has since closed as of a couple of years back, but the brand now exists in multiple cities. Each Standard property has its own unique touches, so no two are the same. For example, the one in Lond

Mainstays like the Singapore Art Museum and ArtScience Museum are probably the first places that come to mind when you’re in the mood for an artsy outing. But take a look in other areas in Singapore, and you’ll discover smaller independent galleries that are also worth a visit – and one of the newer entrants in the scene is Nonage Gallery, located within brooding gothic tower The Mill at Bukit Merah. It’s always something new with each visit – Nonage Gallery keeps things fresh for visitors by switching up its exhibitions every two months or so. This also allows them to rotate the spotlight on their featured artists, thus providing visibility to a wider pool of these underrated creatives from Singapore and around the region throughout the year. One thing that’s constant throughout, though, is the presence of vibrant, whimsical art styles. While quite a handful of different artists’ works have been featured, all of them have a quirky and almost child-like quality – and we mean this in the best way possible. From pop surrealism to manga-inspired paintings and even giant plush carrots sprawled across the floor, everything you’ll discover here can easily be appreciated by all, even if you don’t consider yourself a serious art buff. Once you’re done, pop by coffee roaster Alchemist within the same building for a caffeine fix. This isn't your regular coffee joint either, as its got dark Victorian-style interiors that match the building itself. Keep up to date with Nonage Gallery’s l

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.

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.    

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

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

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.

A day spent at Mandai Wildlife Reserve also means a day spent sweaty (but happy). Thankfully, each of Mandai’s five wildlife parks including the new Rainforest Wild Asia has its own restaurants and snack kiosks where you can cool down and refuel. But such is the plight of a Starbucks addict: When the cravings hit, they hit you hard, and you can’t help but yearn for your go-to order of a signature frappuccino or cold brew. Well, turns out, the cult coffee chain also has branches in the area – yes, even in Singapore’s ‘wilderness’. While there’s a Starbucks at River Wonders which looks inviting in its own right, we’re most enamoured with the Starbucks at Bird Paradise, which opened not too long ago in mid-2023 alongside the aviary. True to the theme of the area, this one’s designed to look like a cosy forest hut or cabin, and constructed using wooden beams for a rustic look. Photograph: Starbucks These wooden features aren’t merely for the vibes; They’re created using recycled materials as part of the outlet’s eco-friendly design. Other environmentally friendly elements here include insulated glass panels to help keep things cool without having to blast on the air-conditioning at full strength, as well as water-efficient systems and a plant-based menu section. Starbucks Bird Paradise happens to be one of the 6,000 Starbucks Greener stores around the world – outlets that are specially designed to lighten our carbon footprint and lessen any negative impact on the environment. W

A scenic locale, picture-perfect ambience, and thoughtfully curated menu focused on a specific type of cuisine – it goes without saying that these winning elements are always present with any concept by 1-Group, the F&B collective that’s behind the likes of Botanico @ The Summerhouse, Camille at 1-Flowerhill and plenty others. It’s thus no mystery why these locations are always top picks for special occasions like anniversaries, proposals and even weddings. Now, buckle up for its newest dining spot, 1-Alfaro by Monti, which delivers in these aspects and more. While unexpectedly located at Pasir Panjang – an area laden with steely industrial buildings full of STEM companies – this new date night spot rewards patrons with sweeping views of the surrounding sea from its vantage point on the 34th floor. Which is beautifully fitting, since ‘Alfaro’ means ‘lighthouse’ in Italian. Here’s what you can expect at 1-Alfaro, which houses Italian restaurant La Torre, and alfresco rooftop bar La Luna. La Torre: Classic Italian restaurant with sea views Photograph: 1-Alfaro It’s classic Italian staples over at La Torre, which leans towards the cuisine of Emilia-Romagna in Northern Italy. Tuck into the likes of hearty charcoal-grilled meat and seafood, fried lasagna ($16), and house-made burrata gelato with rosemary tuile ($17) – a menu conceptualised by a Genovese chef. Small eaters – or those who’d like to try a little bit of everything – will be glad to know that most of La Torre’s handm

It’s time to don your frilliest frock and dress up your hair with pretty bows for a day out with the girlies – because Singapore’s very first coquette-themed photo booth studio has just opened its doors at Capitol Piazza. While this is yet another branch under Solace Studios – a Korean-inspired photo booth chain with quite a handful of stores throughout Singapore – it’s currently the only one out of the lot that leans towards feminine and cute, rather than edgy or minimalist. We’re not sure if this coquette-themed outlet was created specifically with the “very demure, very mindful” TikTok trend in mind, but it has certainly come just in time to further fuel the hype. For those who aren’t familiar with it, coquette is a trending fashion style that’s unapologetically ultra-feminine, with a hint of old Western charm – think puff-sleeved dresses with flouncy skirts, pastel colours, and elegant embellishments like pearls, ribbons, and lace. Photograph: Solace Studios At first glance, you just might mistake Solace Studios’ coquette-themed outlet for a fancy boutique or nail salon, thanks to its luxe Victorian-esque decor. Within are three photo booth stations, each with a curtain backdrop in a different colour: white, dark blue, and lush red. For the ultimate soft girl vibe, we’d say go straight for the white one. Photograph: Solace Studios In lieu of the usual instant photo booth props like silly animal hats and oversized sunglasses, this studio has a series of classy accessor

It brings to mind Beauty and the Beast with its multitude of towering Roman columns, high domed ceiling lined with arched windows, and rustic wooden desks that are uniquely curved to create a circular formation in the middle of the room – but you won’t find this grand library anywhere in Europe. Instead, you might be surprised to learn that it’s sitting hidden within plain sight at Singapore’s very own National Gallery, the biggest arts and culture museum in the city. See also: Geneo, a new mall and lifestyle hub in Singapore with unique European cathedral-inspired architecture Photograph: National Gallery Singapore Unlike most other public libraries in Singapore, the Rotunda Library & Archive isn’t part of the National Library Board (NLB), but rather fully owned by the museum itself. Don't expect to see children’s picture books or steamy romance fiction novels here – its vast collection contains art journals, diaries full of sketches and photos, research material, and archives from Singapore and the region dating back to as early as the 19th century. Safe to say, you won’t find the same sort of rare historic reads at your everyday neighbourhood library. Photograph: National Gallery Singapore Even if diving deep into the history of Southeast Asian art isn’t really up your alley, this two-storey library annexe is a gorgeous work of art in itself that’s worth marvelling at. There’s even a sliding ladder that you can use to reach the volumes on the higher shelves – cue Belle

Craving comfort pasta dishes? There’s a swanky new Italian dining spot in the CBD area serving up that and so much more, with a special focus on traditional Southern Italian flavours. Named Sospiri after the owner’s favourite childhood dessert from his hometown, Puglia, this restaurant is located on the seventh floor of the new IOI Central Boulevard Towers in Shenton Way. And with a cosy and welcoming atmosphere inspired by Roman holiday houses, it’ll have you feeling right at home. Aside from a main dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow in plenty of natural sunlight, Sospiri also has a chic 60-seater rooftop bar that’s sheltered, so you can enjoy a tipple there rain or shine. There’s also a private dining room that can seat 14 for intimate gatherings.   Photograph: Sospiri   Kick off your meal with cocktails and appetisers ($18 to $28) such as blue fin tuna tartare, seafood salad, and an assortment of other seafood dishes involving calamari, prawn, octopus, and mussels. More marine fare awaits in the mains section ($35 to $48), with decadent plates of grilled swordfish belly and grilled octopus with white beans and peppers. That said, those who shy away from the ocean’s riches can zero in on other flavoursome delights like grilled lamb T-bone chops, and a wide spread of homemade pastas ($25 to $35) that are all authentically South Italian. Photograph: Sospiri While a la carte prices at Sospiri are already pretty reasonable especially considering its prime

Jeju’s gorgeous hiking trails, seaside cafés and flower fields are now closer than ever  – all thanks to a brand new direct flight route by Korean low-cost airline T’way Air operating between Singapore’s Changi Airport and Jeju International Airport. Before this, T’way Air’s only direct flights from Singapore to Korea landed at Incheon International Airport in Seoul – the popular capital city that’s since become rather overcrowded and tourist-laden. It also offers flights from Singapore to a whopping seven destinations in Japan including Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa and Sapporo, all of which require a stopover in Seoul. T’way Air’s non-stop Singapore-Jeju flights aren’t the first of their kind. Before this, there was already such a route via Singapore’s Airlines’ low-cost sister airline, Scoot – aka the Value Airline of the Year as awarded by Air Transport World. In any case, that was the sole direct option available, and taking any other airline would require a stopover with a domestic flight – so we’re excited for this alternative that’ll help shake things up in the aviation scene. Photograph: Shutterstock This news comes around the same time as Jetstar Asia’s sudden closure due to tough competition – a move that many are still in shock over. What’s especially surprising about this is that Jetstar just announced a couple of exciting new flight routes, including direct flights between Singapore and Broome, Australia, as well as Singapore and Labuan Bajo, an underrated island para

The thrifting movement in Singapore is at its peak right now – especially with popular Japanese thrift shop chain 2nd Street recently opening at Orchard, alongside plenty of other smaller local youth-owned secondhand stores. Now before you groan and say, “another one?” with regards to this growing – and perhaps now soon-to-be-saturated – category of fashion stores on our homeground, hear us out: Takara House, located in a second-floor shophouse unit near the mouth of Haji Lane, isn’t just yet another small biz that’s out to get a share of the pie.   Photograph: Rachel Yohannan for Time Out Many of the newer thrift stores that have opened in the past couple of years carry streetwear items that are quite similar to that of each other – think graphic tees, pullovers, denim jackets, and caps from the 80s to early 2000, often from mainstream brands – and what were once considered fresh finds are now starting to become commonplace. Takara House doesn’t rely on such trends, and instead presents a well-curated line-up based on the young owners’ own interests, all personally sourced from abroad in places like Japan and Vietnam. Photograph: Rachel Yohannan for Time Out On the clothing racks you’ll find an assortment of shirts, vests with unique patterns and embroidery, leather jackets and more from labels you may or may not have heard of, all for a fraction of their original prices – this ranges from around $30 to $80. The apparel selection leans more towards menswear, but there’s

You know what they say: In Singapore, we pay and pay – whether it’s GST, COE for cars or property taxes, there are plenty of fees we’ve got to bear in this city. But here’s some welcome news for those who drive: Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) rates will be temporarily reduced till the second-last day of the month, specially for the June school holidays. These ERP discounts are ongoing at a total of five locations in Singapore until June 29, 2025. Regular rates will be back in place on June 30, Monday, when the new school term officially begins. It’s just a $1 reduction across the board at the selected spots, but hey, a discount is a discount regardless. This also means that gantries that typically deduct $1 during other periods would thus let you cruise past at no cost for the next few weeks. Concurrently, those who drive should also be aware of the new Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) requirement for Singaporean vehicles driving into Malaysia, which costs about $3. Not having a valid one would result in a fine when you’re travelling to Johor Bahru. Lowered ERP rates from June 2 to June 29, 2025, according to the Land Authority of Singapore: AYE before Alexandria towards city 8am to 8.30am: Previously $1, currently $0 Southbound CTE after Braddell Road and PIE sliproad into southbound CTE (set of four gantries) 7.30am to 8.30am: Previously $2, currently $1 9am to 9.30am: Previously $4, currently $3 9.30am to 10am: Previously $3, currently $2 Southbound CTE before Braddell Road

Does your potential outing to Jurong Lake Gardens never seem to make it out of the group chat? We don’t blame you – for those who aren’t dwellers of the west, there’s probably lots of mental inertia involved in making that trip down to Lakeside on a random weekend morning. But other than the revamped Chinese and Japanese Gardens in the area, here’s another new motivating factor for you to head over for a stroll: the newest branch of Canopy that’s located right within the sprawling park. Canopy already has a couple of outlets across the island, including two in the east – with the relatively new Canopy Changi Village offering unobstructed views of the sea. It’s high time that Westies got one for themselves too, and Canopy Jurong Lake Gardens just so happens to be the biggest pet- and family-friendly restaurant in the area. Photograph: Canopy This new outpost is a little different from the rest. While it’s similarly surrounded by nature, it appears to have Bali-esque vibes from the outside, where large wooden beams make up parts of the standalone building’s structure and rattan chairs are set up for al fresco dining. But step in and you’ll notice that the interiors boast oriental-inspired elements – all very befitting of the café’s proximity to the newly revamped Chinese Garden. Great news if you’re not a morning person, because the brunch menu runs daily till 2pm, with outlet-exclusive items including the avocado croast ($20) – a toasted croissant with guacamole, poached egg

Every year, we wait in anticipation for the announcement of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants to see which establishments from Singapore make it onto this world-acclaimed list. It’s never really a matter of ‘if’, but ‘how many’; After all, eating is one of the top pastimes of Singaporeans and our city is brimming with such a diverse line-up of cuisines and dining venues – the perfect representation of the multi-culturalism that we’re known for. Ahead of the official announcement of the top 50 on June 19, 2025, the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 extended list of 51 to 100 has just been revealed, and two from this Lion City have been named: modern Australian-style BBQ restaurant Burnt Ends (#93), and Labyrinth (#97) which prides itself on its ‘new Singaporean cuisine’. Both Burnt Ends and Labyrinth are no stranger to the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, having emerged at 68th and 92nd place respectively in last year’s extended list. Admittedly, this is quite a drop for Burnt Ends in particular, both one-Michelin-star holders will have to work a little harder to maintain their top 100 placings in next year’s edition of this food award ranking. Photograph: Labyrinth This year sees one less Singapore-based dining establishment on the 51 to 100 extended list, with Meta (#95 in 2024) making a disappearance. This can only mean one thing: It’s either been bumped up to the top 50, or fallen off the list entirely. Only time will tell. Last year, only one restaurant from Singapore mad

Get ready to jiggle that booty – and by that, we mean bouncing your spoon on a perfectly butt-shaped mound of pudding, perched atop a parfait. A Crayon Shinchan café is coming to Singapore this June 19, and it’s going to be a real cheeky dining experience in more ways than one. By the very same people who brought us Singapore’s first Miffy hot pot restaurant pop-up last year, this limited-time pop-up within Taiwanese eatery Wong Fu Fu is an ode to the Japanese cartoon character whom many of us grew up with. It’s a full menu of Shinchan-themed nosh, including the Japanese seafood curry rice ($23.90): an ensemble of fried seafood, star-shaped cheese and carrot slices, a garden salad, and most importantly, a serving of Japanese rice moulded to look like Shinchan’s derriere – something he often whips out at random while dancing around in his true mischievous nature. Another bootilicious item that’ll have you in stitches is the aforementioned Piak! Piak! Shinchan Butt Japanese parfait ($12.90), layered with vanilla sponge, cornflakes, caramel crumble and strawberries. Photograph: Wong Fu Fu It’s all in good fun of course, but if buttock-themed food isn’t all that appetising to you, there’s plenty more to choose from, such as the Japanese chicken katsu burger ($19.90) served with tater tots and salad. Or, go for Wong Fu Fu’s signature Taiwanese flavours with the signature mini bowls ($20.90), a trio of dry scallion braised beef noodles, torched smoked duck with fried rice, and a

It’s only been three months since Raffles Sentosa Singapore first opened its grand doors to guests, but this new hotel is already making a stellar impression. Expectations do begin at a certain level just because of its association with the original heritage-rich Raffles Hotel Singapore in town – undeniably one of the best hotels in the city – but it’s safe to say that this new resort with romantic sea views holds its own. Its recognition in the Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Hotels List for 2025 is clear proof of that, if nothing else. First started in 2015, Prix Versailles is a prestigious annual architectural and design award that puts the spotlight on the best and most stunning buildings from all over the world – including museums, stadiums, school campuses and airports. One could say it's akin to the architectural version of the esteemed La Liste food awards. Photograph: Raffles Sentosa Singapore This year’s Prix Versailles award-winners list names a total of 16 hotels, of which only five are from Asia: Mandarin Oriental Qianmen from Beijing, China; MGallery Sosei Sapporo from Japan;  Ran Baas The Palace from Patiala, India; Namia River Retreat from Hoi An, Vietnam; and our very own new entrant Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the sole winner from Singapore on the list. The list does not come with any particular sort of ranking. Being an all-villa establishment where every sprawling residence comes with its own private pool, terrace and garden, this hotel near Palawa