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Cam Khalid

Cam Khalid

Cam signs off as City Life Writer who covers a range of beats including music, film, nightlife, and of course, things to do in the city. She calls both Singapore and London home, but let's face it: she mostly lives on the internet. When she's not on some sonic adventure (not the video game), she's keeping up with pop culture – one Kardashian at a time.

Say hello at cam.khalid@timeout.com or @cammkay (Instagram).

Articles (438)

The best indoor things to do in Singapore on a rainy day

The best indoor things to do in Singapore on a rainy day

Nothing better than a cold and rainy day in bed watching Netflix with a hot cup of tea in hand. Watching heartwarming movies while snuggling up in bed seems pretty ideal in the cool weather but what happens when cabin fever hits and you wish to do some activities but the rain is cramping your style? Here’s a list of backup plans that you can enjoy while staying indoors in comfortable air-conditioning. They include indoor playgrounds, flower gardens, visiting museums and more. Scroll down for more great ideas to do in Singapore even when it's pouring outside. RECOMMENDED: 101 best things to do in Singapore

The best family-friendly holiday destinations in Asia

The best family-friendly holiday destinations in Asia

It’s never too early to ignite your little ones’ sense of wanderlust. And thanks to the Singapore passport (the most powerful in the world according to the Henley Passport Index), you can enjoy visa-free access to 192 global destinations.  For starters, introduce your tiny travellers to the wonders of Asia. Whether you're looking to start near or far, Asia has a plethora of family-friendly holiday destinations. From island getaways like the Maldives and Bali for beach bums to city breaks like Seoul and Tokyo for thrill-seekers, there's always something fun for everyone, including the young and the young-at-heart. So, fasten your seatbelts, because we're about to embark on a wild ride through the top kid-approved destinations, where pint-sized explorers reign supreme and giggles are the local currency. RECOMMENDED: The best short day trips from Singapore and the best cool weather destinations in Southeast Asia

The best cheap things to do in Singapore with kids

The best cheap things to do in Singapore with kids

Who says you can’t find fun things to do with the family in an expensive city like Singapore? Despite its small size, the Lion City has plenty of kid-friendly activities for a roaring good time, from free water parks to indoor playgrounds with a fee. If you’re looking for the best budget-friendly places to take the children without breaking the bank, we’ve listed some alternatives that cost less than $20 per entry. RECOMMENDED: The best free things to do in Singapore with kids and 50 best things to do in Singapore with kids

The ultimate guide to the countryside in Singapore

The ultimate guide to the countryside in Singapore

Singapore has become synonymous with towering skyscrapers, hefty price tags, and city buzz. But hidden in the north-western corner of the mainland is a rural area with barely a high-rise building in sight. Instead, it's home to sprawling farmlands, nature reserves, and lesser-known restaurants offering authentic farm-to-table experiences.  Swap the city life for the country life, and spend time with farm animals, spot some wildlife, and be one with nature at Kranji and Lim Chu Kang. You can even experience the kampung life with a stay at a farm resort. The easiest way to get there is by car, but it's also possible to take public transport – the nearest MRT station is Kranji.  RECOMMENDED: The best offshore islands in Singapore to escape to and the best nature trails in Singapore

The best florists in Singapore for Christmas wreaths and festive flowers

The best florists in Singapore for Christmas wreaths and festive flowers

This is not a drill – you’ve got less than a month to get in the Yuletide spirit before Christmas. It's time to put on the Michael Bublé tunes, make yourself a glass of mulled wine, and get all the festive decorations out and up.  Besides bauble-filled fir trees, complete your decor with festive flowers and plants such as mistletoe, poinsettias, hollies, and berries. Whether you prefer ordering gorgeous blooms online, or picking up a handmade wreath from a shop, these florists have all the goods to get your place looking like Santa’s grotto. RECOMMENDED: Best shops for Christmas trees and decorations in Singapore and Best Christmas log cakes and desserts this year

The best shops for Christmas trees and decorations in Singapore

The best shops for Christmas trees and decorations in Singapore

The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching and it's time to get in the festive spirit. Make up for Singapore's lack of winter by turning your humble abode into your very own winter wonderland with a selection of Christmas trees and decorations such as themed trinkets, baubles, socks, and fairy lights from the city's best stores. RECOMMENDED: Best florists in Singapore for Christmas wreaths and festive flowers and Best Christmas buffets in Singapore

The best contemporary art galleries and spaces in Singapore

The best contemporary art galleries and spaces in Singapore

With the city's top museums dominating itineraries, it’s easy to forget about the smaller, offbeat gems. It's time to open your mind and dive into the world of contemporary art at these under-the-radar galleries. Hang out with the cool, artsy cats at these alternative galleries in Singapore and who knows, you might just find your new favourite artist.  RECOMMENDED: The best museums in Singapore and the best music concerts and festivals in Singapore

The best outdoor spots in Singapore to admire nature from above

The best outdoor spots in Singapore to admire nature from above

It's true that the best views are to be had from high places, but you don't have to climb the highest peaks to feel on top of the world. Sometimes the suspended bridges, tall towers, and top of the hills in Singapore can make you feel like the king of the jungle. Strap on your best hiking shoes, slap on some sunscreen, and head to these top spots for stunning panoramic vistas and aerial views of the Garden City. RECOMMENDED: The best rooftops with stunning views of Singapore and best hiking trails in Singapore

The ultimate guide to Halloween in Singapore

The ultimate guide to Halloween in Singapore

Let your freak flag high on October 31 when the world welcomes hell – we mean, Halloween. But why October 31? The spookfest originally started over 2,000 years back as the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain (pronounced 'sow-in') in Ireland. It marks the end of the harvest, welcoming new beginnings on All Hallows' Day on November 1. However, the superstitious Celts believed that the baddies from hell would descend onto earth for a day of carnage on All Hallows' Eve. What a nightmare. Nowadays, instead of hiding in the corner of your bedroom, Halloween is a great excuse to get your freak on. Singapore may not have the orange autumn season, but we sure have 'em pumpkins. From the best Halloween events in Singapore to the creepiest Asian horror stories, it's time to dust off your witch's hat, summon the coven, and party (safely!) past the witching hour. Here's your guide to a devilishly good Halloween. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in October

The best free things to do in Singapore

The best free things to do in Singapore

The best things in life are free – and we couldn't agree more, especially when we're looking to save some dough while still having fun. A lot has been said about how expensive it is to live or vacation in Singapore, but that doesn't mean you have to break the bank. From enjoying ticketless art exhibitions and offbeat attractions to exploring Singapore's great outdoors, here's how to live it up the city gratuitously. RECOMMENDED: 101 best things to do in Singapore and things to do in Singapore this week

Places in Singapore that were once cemeteries

Places in Singapore that were once cemeteries

Most people in Singapore walk the streets not knowing what lies – or rather, used to lie – beneath them. While only Choa Chu Kang Cemetery Complex remains active today, over 20 cemeteries used to exist islandwide before being cleared out to make way for shiny new buildings and housing estates. According to Singapore's law, the burial period for all graves are limited to 15 years, and once that time is up, grave plots will be exhumed or relocated. While this sounds like gruesome business, the reality is that the dead will have to give way for the living, especially in a crowded, land-starved city like Singapore. Here are 6 places in Singapore that used to be cemeteries. RECOMMENDED: Heritage cemeteries in Singapore and abandoned places in Singapore

The best free things to do with kids in Singapore

The best free things to do with kids in Singapore

Looking to keep the kids busy without breaking the bank? With plenty of family-friendly things to do around Singapore – even free ones – we've got you covered. Whether it's school holidays or a quiet weekend, there's plenty of activities that will keep your tiny tots entertained. From cycling through East Coast Park and flying a kite at Marina Barrage to getting soaked at Far East Organization Children's Garden and Siloso Beach, here are the best activities for kids – absolutely free. RECOMMENDED: The best family-friendly activities in Singapore and the best kid-friendly restaurants in Singapore

Listings and reviews (185)

Kampung Admiralty Hawker Centre

Kampung Admiralty Hawker Centre

This new-ish kid on the hawker block first opened in 2017 with the commitment to preserve the traditional hawker culture while embracing modernity. It also fosters inclusivity, sustainability, and healthy dining (look out for the healthier options). Slurp up a hearty bowl of laksa from Ah Choon Traditional Lor Mee Prawn Noodle Laksa, savour fried carrot cake from Father & Son, and gather the fam for a communal fishy affair at San Yi Xuan. You no longer have to wait for Geylang Serai Ramadan Bazaar to have a taste of The Original Vadai either. Find them at Kampung Admiralty Hawker Centre.

OMMAS @ Admiralty

OMMAS @ Admiralty

Satisfy your cravings at this halal eatery serving an enticing mix of Korean-Japanese delights at wallet-friendly prices. First-timers must try the signature OMMAS fried chicken rice bowl ($7.90). Japanese enthusiasts can savour the hit dish salmon mentaiyaki rice bowl ($9.50), or one of the classic curry rice bowls (from $7.90). For those who relish Korean cuisine, the slightly spicy beef bibimbap ($7.50), crowned with an oozy sous vide egg is a must-try. Not a fan of rice? Ramyeon and udon dishes are also on the menu.

Dollop Print Club

Dollop Print Club

Once upon a time, Neoprints were all the rage. With a personalisation feature, it’s basically a playful and whimsical version of the traditional photo strip. But if you’re too young to remember, you’re in luck. Dollop Print Club has revived the purikura (Japanese sticker photo booth) at various locations including Suntec City, SingPost Centre, Harbourfront Centre. Don't sleep on the themed pop-up booths at National Museum of Singapore and Jurong Point too – they’re super kawaii. Unlike the old machines, these hassle-free ones also have cashless payments and print out two photo strips in less than a minute!

Fotoautomat

Fotoautomat

Watching a cult classic at The Projector? While you’re there, slip into Singapore’s only analogue photochemical booth to mark the occasion. The 1980s US-import is armed with a snazzy shutter release that throws beams of light onto special paper that’s all about soaking those picture-perfect moments. Sounds complex, but it’s totally easy to use. Relive the old-school way where you’ll have to insert coins to start the camera. Once the green light goes red, it’s time to strike a pose. All shots are final and the film strip takes about four minutes to develop. To quote a Star Wars film (The Return of the Jedi, to be exact): "Patience, my friend."

Life4Cut

Life4Cut

Get papped like you're straight outta Seoul at Life4Cut. Not your average photo booth, this South Korean snap shack is located in its very own store. One step inside and you’ll find a wonderland of bright backdrops, costumes, props, and accessories to amp up the fun. It also features limited-edition themed frames where you can pose alongside your favourite K-pop stars. Previous groups include Seventee, Aespa and Ive. Besides print copies, you also get to keep soft copies and gif videos – perfect for posting on the ‘gram too.

Solace Studios

Solace Studios

Similar to Life4Cut, this South Korean-inspired self-photo studio is tucked in its very own store. Its photo booths also occasionally set up shop at various places such as Bedok Town Square, AMK Hub and Cineleisure for a limited time period. But unlike its K-photo booth counterpart, it bears a minimalist vibe – great if you’re looking for a clean aesthetic. To jazz it up, there are fun headbands, sunglasses and accessories to play around with. And if your messy tresses need a quick fix, there are complementary tools like hair dryers and straighteners that'll do the trick. Fur-babies are also allowed in this pet-friendly booth for a unique family snap.

Fotomat

Fotomat

Priding itself as “Singapore’s first self black and white photo studio,” Fotomat is great for fans of the timeless effect as well as those who are a little camera shy. You have full creative control as the power of the shutter clicker is in your hands. You don’t have to wait too long for your printed photos, either. Each $30 package includes a solid 15-minutes of unadulterated photo-clicking frenzy for two people, and you get to walk out with not one, but deux beautifully printed photographs from your sesh. Now that’s a sweet deal.

Say Chunkie!

Say Chunkie!

You’ve probably stumbled upon this novelty photo studio of your FYP on Tik Tok. Looking like something straight outta the 80s, the studio is decked out with DIY hand-painted props like a giant koi fish and mega shoutao buns, and rad blue walls. There are also plenty of props for you and your crew to play around with. Each session takes about 45 minutes long, with 30 minutes of pure pose galore, followed by 15 minutes of making those hard-to-choose photo selections (trust us, they’re all that good). Say Chunkie! is definitely giving nostalgia on steroids, and we’re loving every neon second!

123 Chicha

123 Chicha

Smile away at this ultimate playground for maximalist selfies. With 20 ever-changing backdrops (they get refreshed every three to six months), eight themed rooms, and over 200 costumes, choices overflow at 123 Chicha. But hold onto your feather boa, there’s more. It has a makeup station that is basically a glam squad’s dream come true, equipped with hair styling tools. No professional cameras? Not to worry, it also has a selfie stand with remote control, and in case your selfie spree drains your battery, there’s portable chargers too. And yes, you get to keep all the pics you take.

Full House

Full House

Teleport to 1960s Shanghai with Full House. It's not just a retro bar, it's your time-travel ticket too. Drenched in a golden glow from yellow vintage pendants and ceiling lamps, it's a speakeasy wonderland for that "vintage" magic. It’s also decked with neon signs twinkling, vintage posters popping, and red velour drapes. Get photoshoot ready with antique phones, hand fans, and qipao costumes from the bar's treasure trove. Then dive into a fuss-free self-shoot with unlimited snaps or amp up the game with an onsite photographer. And hey, Full House has got your energy covered too – fuel up with a gratis can of Lao Shan beer or coffee.

Archifest 2023

Archifest 2023

To mark its 60th with a bang, the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) is cranking up its annual affair Archifest with a fresh edition. This time, they're going all out with the theme "Interim: Acts of Adaptation" – think of it as an exploration of how our city's architecture evolves and dances to the beat of change. Set in the historic Kampong Gelam precinct, this month-long extravaganza showcases impressive installations, immersive workshops, intriguing talks, and more. Brace yourself for a season of innovation and revelation as Archifest takes over our urban spaces in an unprecedented manner. Look forward to installations at six sites across Kampong Gelam created by emerging designers as well as an exhibition showcasing architectural projects from Singapore and the region. Contributors include SEED Architects, Studio Karya, The Open Workshop, WY-TO Group and several others. Catch short films at the Interim Cinema exploring themes revolving around architectural and land redevelopment practices. Additionally, attend guided tours that will take you around some of the city's latest architectural developments. In collaboration with Hidden Singapore, there will also be an interactive outdoor game led by a Whatsapp chatbot where participants can discover hidden stories of Kampong Gelam. For the full list of programmes, visit their webpage here.

Lauv

Lauv

Multi-platinum certified singer, songwriter, producer, and pop visionary Lauv is back bigger and better as he takes over the Singapore Indoor Stadium for one night only. And not a “lonely” one this time as he is joined by special guest fellow pop triple threat Alexander23. Expect the headliner’s flair for pop-laced summer anthems such as his breakout smash I Like Me Better as well as chart-topping singles I'm So Tired... with Australian singer-actor Troye Sivan, ****, I'm Lonely with British pop darling Anne-Marie, and Who with K-pop superstars BTS. Don’t forget to don your best pair of dancing shoes for this night of pop euphoria.

News (101)

Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2021 is cancelled – again

Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2021 is cancelled – again

For three high-octane nights each year, the city lends its streets for the most dramatic race in the Formula 1 calendar. Usually held in September, it's the only time of the year where you get to see the world's best F1 drivers and biggest music acts come to town to put one helluva show, set against the stunning Marina Bay skyline. Hate to be a bearer of bad news, but that time won't come around this year – cue the screeching tires. Race promoter Singapore GP Pte Ltd has recently announced the cancellation of this year's F1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix due to ongoing safety and logistic concerns brought about by Covid-19. This is the second time the event has been axed, followed by last year's. Even with three months to go till the popular night race, there is a lot of construction and planning to be done. Things like constructing the circuit and stands for the audience – which usually starts in May – cannot go on because of the legal restrictions for live events. And being in Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) doesn't help either. On top of that, worldwide travel restrictions prove to be another factor in making the decision. Taking the responsible route, the authorities and parties involved have decided to prioritise safety. “We understand that our fans were looking forward to another edition of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix. To cancel the event for a second year is an incredibly difficult decision, but a necessary one in light of the prevailing restrictions for li

Adventure Cove Waterpark reopens on May 12

Adventure Cove Waterpark reopens on May 12

With summer all year round, Singapore is loaded with cool ideas to beat the heat, from ice cream parlours serving local flavours to a mini indoor arctic with sub-zero temperatures. But if you're looking to keep cool with a splashing good time, then dust off your best swimwear for Adventure Cove Waterpark. The Resorts World Sentosa crowd-pleaser – the last of the three marquee attractions including Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium – finally reopens on May 12, with reduced capacity and safe distancing measures in place. Priding itself as Southeast Asia’s only integrated aquatic and marine life park, Adventure Cove Waterpark is set to welcome guests back with a myriad of memorable experiences. From high-speed water slides including a water tornado ride and the region's first hydro-magnetic coaster to a lazy river to float away under the sun, it's easy to spend a whole day at this world-class waterpark.   Photograph: Resorts World Sentosa   Besides the thrilling activities, there are plenty of opportunities to learn and encounter marine life. You can snorkel with over 20,000 tropical fishes, wade among rays, come face to face with predators of the deep, and go through an underwater tunnel while your new fishy friends swim overhead. The park is set to open from 10am to 5pm on May 12, Wednesday, and will run till Sunday as part of the reopening week. It then resumes normal operating hours from 10am to 5pm from Friday to Sunday, and Friday to Tuesday during school h

What's life like in Singapore for you today? We want to know.

What's life like in Singapore for you today? We want to know.

There's no way to sugarcoat this: the past year has been pretty bleak. Due to the pandemic, overseas holidays are cancelled, our favourite venues are closed, massive festivals are called off, and many brilliant things are put on hold  – even New Year's Eve was spent a little quieter. But despite this, Singaporeans managed to make the most of it by playing tourist, even using the SingapoRediscovers vouchers to rediscover participating tourist attractions, hotels, tours, and hidden gems in their own backyard. If that doesn't make you fall in love with the city again, then we want to know what will. Every year, we quiz thousands of city-dwellers in our annual Time Out Index Survey, telling us which bits of their city they loved. Last year, the colourful Bugis was crowned the coolest 'hood in Singapore – and 29th in the world. The list, which was compiled with the help of Time Out editors and experts, ranks 40 of the planet’s cultural and culinary hotspots in 2020. As cities everywhere start to emerge from the pandemic, we want to know how you feel about life in Singapore right now, and the things we don't know – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Take the Time Out 2021 Index survey to help us decide what makes city life great, even in the new norm. The survey takes about ten minutes to complete and you remain completely anonymous. Be honest and let us know the things you love and loathe about the city. At the end, we’ll tell you exactly how much you love your city. Take the Time

Stand a chance to win attractive prizes while supporting local businesses

Stand a chance to win attractive prizes while supporting local businesses

Despite being a small island, Singapore has plenty of hidden gems worth discovering. We’ve even mapped out some of the best finds in each neighbourhood. But to spice things up, ground-up community project JalanJalan.me (launched by the same folks behind the #savefnbsg movement) is turning your little backyard exploration into a treasure hunt from March 15 to 30 – treasures (or rather, prizes) included. With only JalanJalan.me's online itinerary as your guide, the 'treasure hunt' takes you through Ang Mo Kio, Bedok, Chong Pang, Clementi and Jalan Besar, where you can discover and support local businesses along the way. To enter the contest, you simply have to scan a QR code on-site when you savour the flavour of contemporary Asian dishes at Slake, comfort favourites at Summerhill, flame-grilled meats at Torched, and more tasty pit stops that will be added to the guide as the #JalanHuat campaign unfolds over the next few weeks. Photograph: JalanJalan.meSummerhill There are no limits too, so you can enter as much as you want to increase your chances of winning in the grand draw. There are three top prizes in the grand draw – a staycation at the newly-relaunched Wanderlust Hotel (first prize), an Apple Watch Series 3 (second prize) and a $188 Grab voucher (third prize). But wait, there’s more – each individual is also eligible for the weekly draw once during the campaign period from March 15 to April 25. Weekly draw prizes include a $150 Tuck Shop app credit that is redeemable

Kids can enjoy free entry at Sentosa attractions till March 31

Kids can enjoy free entry at Sentosa attractions till March 31

Gather the family for some fun under the sun at Sentosa. From now till March 31, the State of Fun is turning up the fun-o-meter with free island admission (via Sentosa Express or car) and free entry for kids aged 12 and below at some of its most popular attractions. These include iFly Singapore, Madame Tussauds Singapore, SkyPark by AJ Hackett Sentosa, VR Headrock, Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure, Singapore Cable Car, and Royal Albatross. However, there's a catch – the free entry comes with every paying adult as part of Sentosa's Kids Play Free campaign. Nonetheless, there is never a dull moment on the island. Make the most of this epic family holiday with a cable car ride from Mount Faber to Sentosa and back (adult $35). It's also a great way to get a bird's eye view of the islands. For an on-land exploration, hop on a Segway or rent a bicycle for an hour at Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure (adult $21). Photograph: Sentosa Development Corporation If you've got mini daredevils, take your family bonding activity to new heights with a giant swing at SkyPark by AJ Hackett Sentosa (adult $59), or let them channel their inner superhero with a skydive at iFly Singapore (adult $66). It gets even super at Madame Tussauds Singapore (adult $30 for 5-in-1 and Digi Pass), where the whole fam can strike a pose next to the Avengers, and experience the Marvel 4D Cinema. The ticket also allows you to meet other international and local celebs (in wax form, no less), go on the Spirit of Singapore b

Garden Rhapsody returns to Gardens by the Bay from January 8

Garden Rhapsody returns to Gardens by the Bay from January 8

There's nothing like fresh air and picturesque views, especially when taking a refreshing stroll through the majestic, gargantuan gardens surrounded by exotic foliage at Gardens by the Bay. But take it from us, it's even more magical at sunset when the Garden Rhapsody light show comes on. The popular light and sound show at Supertree Grove spotlights the illuminated Supertrees which change hues in time to a musical soundtrack as if they are "dancing" along to it. However, due to the pandemic, Garden Rhapsody was forced to go on a hiatus during the circuit breaker last year. It then resumed with a small-scale version in September, featuring soothing background music and soft lighting, so as to ensure safe distancing management and crowd control. Thanks to Singapore's transition to Phase 3, Garden Rhapsody is finally able to make its highly anticipated comeback. It returns with a bang – literally – from January 8 with two full-scale shows, twice every evening at its original 7.45pm and 8.45pm timing. There are altogether 10 shows planned for 2021. This January, look forward to Garden Waltz, where 12 Supertrees "dance" to an uplifting compilation of music including Frédéric Chopin's Grande Valse Brilliante, Johann Strauss Junior's By the Beautiful Blue Danube, and Emile Waldteufe's Skater Waltz. It also remains free, with no prior registration needed. However, Safe Distancing Ambassadors and security officers will be on-site to enforce safe management measures such as maintainin

Free entry to Manulife Sky Nets for healthcare workers in Singapore

Free entry to Manulife Sky Nets for healthcare workers in Singapore

While you can't jet off to your favourite holiday destination just yet, you can still visit the world's best airport and indulge in a myriad of dining and shopping options at Jewel Changi Airport. The stopover destination is also home to seven iconic play attractions and creative gardens, as well as an experience studio that features interactive games for families. And in time for Christmas, it's decked with a 16-metre-tall tree and sparkly decorations that will instantly put you in a festive mood. In the spirit of giving, Manulife Singapore has launched an initiative to extend its gratitude to the healthcare workers in Singapore by offering up to four complimentary admission passes to the Manulife Sky Nets – Walking at Jewel's Canopy Park from now until December 25. Healthcare workers and their families can delight in a walk across the taut web suspending at 25-metres above ground without having to pay the usual fee of $13.50 (adult) and $9 (child and senior). If you ever wonder what it feels like to walk on clouds, we reckon this is your best bet. The month-long initiative is held in support of SG Cares Giving Week, which runs from December 1 to 7 this year, and is dedicated to all the frontline workers who have put in tremendous efforts amid the pandemic to help the nation heal and resume life in the new norm. As a way of giving back to the community, Manulife Singapore's gesture of appreciation encourages all to spend quality time with their families this holiday season.

SIFA is presenting a series of live performances this December

SIFA is presenting a series of live performances this December

Following the announcement that live performances can resume at designated venues with up to two zones for a maximum of 50 audiences each, major arts houses in Singapore are planning their highly anticipated comeback – and the wait for Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) is finally over. The arts festival is taking centre stage IRL in December with three nights of double-bill jazz concerts, the world premiere of social media personality mrbrown's internet-turned-theatre show, and sonic sessions with electronic artists Zul and Planeswalker – just in time for Christmas. This marks the festival's physical return since its small-scale pilot performance of Poetry Under the Southern Bough by Toy Factory Productions, which rolled out in early October as part of a pilot scheme by the National Arts Council.  Initially scheduled to run in May, SIFA took a digital turn when theatres went dark during the circuit breaker. Under the banner of SIFA v2.020, special live-streamed performances, workshops, and talks led by theatre directors and artists are presented online to give home audiences their fix. But all that is turning into a reality now that theatre is making – albeit slowly – its return to the stage. From December 17 to 19, jazz lovers can delight in the sweet sounds of Alemay Fernandez, Aaron James Lee, and Richard Jackson, among others, as they perform Christmas tunes, jazz classics, and even audience dedications. If you're a fan of internet sensation mrbrown, see th

New Year's Eve fireworks to set off at different heartlands across Singapore

New Year's Eve fireworks to set off at different heartlands across Singapore

In August this year, the National Day Parade (NDP2020) fireworks display was set off at 10 different locations across Singapore so that residents can catch 'em in the comfort and safety of their respective sweet digs. Similarly, this year's New Year's Eve (NYE) celebrations will follow suit. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has confirmed that the Marina Bay New Year's Eve countdown will not feature its prodigious pyrotechnics – a first since it started in 2005. This is to ensure that crowds in the area are minimised and that safety measures are not breached. Instead, the fireworks display will be set off at different heartlands across the mainland like in previous years. While details have yet to be confirmed, we reckon it'll take place at the same spots as the NDP2020 fireworks which included Ang Mo Kio, Bishan, Buona Vista, Jurong Lake Gardens, Marina Reservoir, Punggol, Sembawang, Tampines, Woodlands, and Yew Tee. To make up for the lack of fireworks, Marina Bay will be showcasing two light shows in December, starting with works by students from various institutions. These kaleidoscopic visual creations will be projected onto the façades of the Fullerton Hotel Singapore, ArtSceince Museum, and the Merlion statue from December 25 to 31. The second light show will see the Marina Bay skyline illuminated with 60 light rays beaming from The Promontory. And what's a NYE celebration without song and dance? While there won't be a massive outdoor concert this year, Mediacorp

Zouk is hosting a pop-up cinematic experience from October 30

Zouk is hosting a pop-up cinematic experience from October 30

Early this month, Zouk Group announced its plans to evolve the nightclub into a 360-degree lifestyle destination. Since the circuit breaker, the rave cave has temporarily closed its dancefloor, bringing DJ sets and even home workouts and cocktail masterclasses to the virtual space. While we can't have a little boogie at the epicentre of Singapore's nightlife just yet, we most definitely can work up a sweat to pumping beats and catch a movie on the big screen at Zouk as it turns into a spinning studio in the day, and a cinema by night. From October 30, cinephiles can take their movie-watching ritual to the next level with Zouk's pop-up cinematic experience: Zouk Cinema Club. It's set to open from Wednesday to Saturday, from 6pm to 10.30pm, with one screening session per night showing two movies. Instead of those hypnotic visuals that accompany DJ sets, the big screen will be screening throwback classics, starting with Halloween cult classics such as The Sixth Sense and The Nightmare Before Christmas.  Photograph: Zouk Group In November, expect a lineup of throwbacks centred around the theme 'For The Love of Music' – perfect for a romantic date night. Look forward to musicals such as Moulin Rouge, Grease, and The Greatest Showman. Besides the snazzy lighting and quality sound system, the main room will also be decorated to mirror the famous red windmill of Moulin Rouge in the City of Love – Paris, France. And what's sweeter than a bottle of bubbly and a bowl of Garrett popcor

Changi Airport opens new park connector that links to East Coast Park

Changi Airport opens new park connector that links to East Coast Park

With plenty of hidden gems, exciting attractions, and new openings to check out, there’s no reason not to play tourist in Singapore. Cue Changi Airport’s latest attraction – Changi Airport Connector. The newly opened 3.5-kilometre stretch allows you to cycle, skate, run, jog, and walk to Jewel Changi Airport and the terminals from East Coast Park or any of the Park Connector Network (PCN), and vice versa. It’s also home to Changi Jurassic Mile, the city’s largest permanent outdoor display of life-sized dinosaurs.   Photograph: Changi Airport Group Live your Jurassic Park dreams with over 20 different prehistoric creatures including the towering Tyrannosaurus Rex, Velociraptors, and Parasaurolophus. Look out for the gigantic dinosaur eggs while you’re at it. See if you can spot all nine species of dinosaurs along the one-kilometre cycling and jogging path. Changi Jurassic Mile is open for 24 hours daily with free entry, but if you wish to visit between Friday and Sunday from 9am to midnight, you’ll have to make a booking via its website or the iChangi app in advance. Photograph: Changi Airport Group Need a two-wheeler to soak up Singapore’s natural beauty? Make your way to the new pit stop facility Hub & Spoke where you can rent bicycles from GoCycling, cool off with a pay-per-use shower after a sweat session, and dine under the stars at Hub & Spoke Café which offers a menu that captures a colourful, multi-cultural variety – from toast and kopi to eggs Benedict and bubble

Take your theatre experience up a notch with The Future Stage

Take your theatre experience up a notch with The Future Stage

Theatres in Singapore remain closed, but the show must go on. Many local theatre companies have turned to the virtual stage to showcase their productions online – whether it's a recorded show on a video streaming platform or a live show on Zoom. But this is no match to the IRL experience of waltzing to the theatre, squeezing your way to your designated spot, and cosying up in the red cushioned seat.  To allow theatre lovers to somewhat relive the experience at home, innovative theatrical entertainment company Sight Lines Entertainment, award-winning playwright-director Chong Tze Chien, and live streaming start-up Xtuality are launching The Future Stage. A gamechanger in the new normal, the collaborative effort introduces Asia's first interactive 360-degree digital theatre experience which brilliantly combines virtual reality (VR) streaming with the performing arts. It allows you to toggle between various angles on the virtual stage, interact and connect with other theatre lovers, and delight in a theatre experience different to that on Zoom and other video streaming platforms. "We want to bring audiences straight into the performances in a visceral way, one that a typical two-dimensional stream has not quite achieved. It's not just about elevating the live-streaming experience, but creating an entirely new genre of entertainment," says Woon, co-founder of Xctuality. Not just for home audiences, The Future Stage also allows producers to create choice-based narratives wher