Aiko Tun

There's a time for trekking and conquering nature trails but there's also a time for sitting pretty and having a picnic – especially now that beaches are open once again. Forget fighting for a table in a hip cafe in the city too. When the weather's looking fine, it's time to pack some bites and look for a spot in one of the best parks in Singapore.  If you're not in the mood to put together a take-out feast, grab a gourmet picnic basket that comes pre-packed with all the tasty finger food you need. All you have to do is to place an order, swing by to collect and be on your way. We've rounded up some places that don't require you to travel to the middle of nowhere, have some shade, and most importantly, located near the toilets (but not too near). RECOMMENDED: The best places to fly a kite and best nature trails in Singapore

Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be great at drawing or painting to unleash your creativity. There are various forms of art you can pick up – from cupcake decorating to crocheting and jewellery making. Not only do you get to pick up a new hobby and get out of your comfort zone, but you also get to meet new people while at it. So if you've ever felt stagnant and needed a new hobby, hit these art classes around town. There's bound to be something for everyone.  RECOMMENDED: Your guide to free art in Singapore and the best ceramic classes in Singapore to make your own pottery 

Sometimes Singapore, with its tall buildings, high population density and endless amount of happening things, can get a little overwhelming. No matter how green and fascinating the metropolis always is, its sheer busyness can get a little too much. Which calls for… a staycation, of course! Singapore is littered with staycay sanctuaries perfect for a weekend away from the city bustle. These tranquil hotels, inns and resorts offer the perfect excuse to take a well-earned break. RECOMMENDED: The best staycation promotions in Singapore and the best cheap hotels in Singapore under $200 This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

While Singapore is dotted with a myriad of tranquil spots, off-shore islands and secret parks to escape the maddening crowds, nothing beats escaping reality with a book in hand. Melt the world away with a good book at a dedicated reading room, stunning library, hip café, or cavernous book store. No doubt, there's plenty of quiet corners in this bustling city to get lost in the pages of your latest fiction (or non-fiction). All better with a cosy seat to settle in and soothing beverage in hand. RECOMMENDED: The best quiet cafés with free Wi-Fi to do work or study and the best libraries in Singapore

The best thing about shopping vintage or second-hand is that it's one of a kind. You'll never have to worry about someone wearing that same dress as you, or shoes and bags – plus you get to say "It's vintage" to anyone who asks where your clothes are from, like the sophisticated person you are. Here's where to start shopping. RECOMMENDED: Where to shop for eco-friendly products in Singapore and and 8 easy steps to live more sustainably in Singapore

In the time of coronavirus, crowded places – here's looking at you, supermarkets of Singapore – are a definite no-go zone. This makes daily routine things like commuting on the train a little more difficult. However, it doesn't mean that you have to quarantine yourself at home and never step out of the home. Here are some not-so-crowded places in Singapore you can go to for fun – just remember to wash your hands at all times! RECOMMENDED: The best acai bowls in Singapore and the best juice bars in Singapore

In Singapore, we're blessed with great hiking trails and lush green parks to get our share of outdoorsy fun. If you know our trails and nature parks like the back of your hand, you might be thinking of challenging yourself. Travel further and you'll find that Southeast Asia is a hotspot for great hikes. Now that international travel looks like it could be a reality soon, we're already planning our next hiking trip. From the volcanoes of Indonesia and the stunning national parks of Thailand, these are the region's most spectacular hikes to test your limits.  RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails in Singapore and the best rooftop gardens in Singapore.  

Jewellery doesn't always have to be shiny, fancy and ridiculously expensive. These Singapore-based brands know a thing or two about the art of making a statement – by keeping it subtle. Check out stunning pieces of handmade jewellery that feature pearls, semi-precious gemstones and even tea leaves that you can put on any day to spruce up your outfit.  RECOMMENDED: The best local jewellery brands in Singapore and the best craft stores in Singapore for all your gifting needs.

Collect experiences and not material things, they say. And if you've tried out everything Singapore has to offer, why not see another part of the world? If you play your cards right, you get to save a few bucks off your travel fares and hotel stays. Here are some travel deals to take advantage of this March, so you can save for more experiences. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Koh Yao Yai and the best resorts in Batam for a quick getaway

Fancy yourself a trip to the art gallery but dread the typical stiff, intimidating environment that comes with it? Experience the best of both worlds at these cafés founded by art-lovers, who aim to transform their space into a whole new art experience, presenting opportunities to aspiring or budding artists to showcase their work while increasing public accessibility to art. RECOMMENDED: Character-themed cafés in Singapore and the best contemporary art galleries in Singapore

Hailing from the west of Singapore, Winifred Kriste Cake provides workshops on handcrafting intricately designed sugar flowers to jazz up the boring ol’ cake. Boasting a highly skilled and dedicated team with a space furnished with pristine white and gold accents, Winifred Kristen Cake promises students a learning experience like no other, as they master the art of making at least 5 different types of sugar flowers and the theory of colours. The team has baked for well-known local and international clients such as Singapore lifestyle blogger Melissa Celestine Koh, American businesswoman Martha Stewart, and even Michelle Obama.

What started out in 2011 as a small unassuming craft corner in Holland Village soon took the nation by storm. Comprising of a work-family of fun and friendly artists, The Workroom teaches creative workshops, completes commissioned art requests, and are always ready to work live at their clients’ exclusive events. Make a mark with The Workroom's rubber stamp carving workshops, where students can look forward to learning all the basics of stamp-making, including preparatory work, carving techniques and inking, and creating their own personalised rubber blocks, perfect for adding an extra touch to greeting cards or invitation letters.

Haji Lane is definitely known for its independent and under-the-radar fashion boutiques, and this one is no different. Live out your craziest Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly fantasies with vintage dresses that look like they came straight out of a 1950s pin-up fashion catalogue. Come through dainty sweetheart necklines and midi pleated skirts.  However, it doesn't stop there – on top of old-timey favourites, Grammah also stocks more trendy items with a vibrant 90s feel with everything from colourful windbreakers, jackets, and even denim overalls.

Another store taking part in the new wave of sustainable fashion, Empire carries reworked pieces of iconic brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren and Fred Perry, adding a twinge of modern flair to its vintage apparel. On its racks, you can also find a vast selection of other vintage clothing items from the Y2K era inspired by the likes of fashion icons Paris Hilton and Sarah Jessica Parker. Besides clothes, Empire stocks a modest collection of handbags.