Cam Khalid

Like New York City, Hong Kong and Tokyo, Singapore’s a city that never sleeps. With its bustling nightlife, dazzling city lights as well as malls and eateries open around the clock or till late, there’s always something to do, even when night falls. We’ve rounded up some ideas to make the best of your time under the stars – from relaxing at a 24 hour spa and bar hopping to challenging your friends to an intense round of Catan or Monopoly. RECOMMENDED: The best free things to do in Singapore at night and The best supper spots in Singapore for late-night dining

Feeling the itch to break free from the city grind without venturing far? With just a hop, skip, and jump away from Singapore, these nearby destinations take no more than three hours to get to. Cross the Causeway to Malaysia, hop on a ferry to a private island in Indonesia, or fly to a tropical paradise in Thailand, all without taking up most of your day. This leaves you ample time to indulge in everything from serene nature retreats to action-packed activities – and everything in between – that will have both parents and kids grinning from ear to ear.  Whether you're looking for a mini city break or a sun-kissed adventure for a refreshing getaway, we’ve got something for every age, taste and budget. RECOMMENDED: The best family-friendly holiday destinations in Asia and the best offshore islands in Singapore to escape to

With summer year-long in Singapore, there's always an excuse to indulge in some ice cream or take a dip in a public pool. But nothing brings out your inner kid quite like tall water slides and wave pools. To amp up the thrill-o-meter, many water parks are bringing out the big guns like rapid flume rides, high-speed water slides, and an inflatable obstacle course à la Wipeout. For something less energetic, you can switch to the various lazy rivers, as well as wet play areas which are more free-and-easy. RECOMMENDED: The best public pools in Singapore and the best beaches in Singapore

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan sees Muslims around the world (except the sick, elderly, pregnant or menstruating) abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until dusk. These are all done while practising charitable deeds and acts of compassion as fasting doubles as a reminder of the sufferings faced by the less fortunate.  To mark the end of the fasting month, Muslims celebrate the festival of Eid al-Fitr, also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore on April 10. Besides a massive feast (home-cooked or delivered), the religious holiday is a time for forgiveness and making amends.  RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Singapore with halal-certified buffets and local Muslim-friendly brands in Singapore

Are art exhibitions and galleries ever enough? The answer is no. From one art type to another, we’ve rounded the best art trails to peep the city’s street art and learn more about our island's heritage, ranging from 2D murals to 3D sculptures, as well as art installations. RECOMMENDED: Must-see art exhibitions in Singapore and the best museums in Singapore

Beyond Singapore’s glimmering skyscrapers, there is a twilight zone of ghost towns, decaying mansions, and wartime relics. Before they were left to nature’s devices, these forgotten places were buzzing with life. Today, they’re a land of rust and glory accompanied by interesting stories from the past – a utopia for urban explorers. Some of them, on the other hand, are attached to the stuff of nightmares – a hotspot for ghostbusters. While some are open to the public, most of them are closed off, so do not attempt to trespass. The closure might just be a blessing in disguise. RECOMMENDED: The best hidden trails in Singapore to explore and 15 hidden gems you never knew existed in Singapore

The Mexican wave in Singapore isn’t dying anytime soon. The cuisine just has so much to offer – after all, it’s rooted in 9,000 years of history, dating back to the Mayan civilisation. In our era, Mexican fare is often associated with rowdy get-togethers and unpretentious but delicious finger food. We’re also seeing influences from other cuisines seep into traditional Mexican dishes, whether its Asian flavours or the ever popular Tex-Mex. Here’s where you can get your fix of tacos, burritos and quesadillas in Singapore.  RECOMMENDED: The best Spanish restaurants and tapas bars in Singapore and The best burgers in Singapore

Pink is everywhere. It's on clothing racks, book covers, phone accessories – and now the colour is catching on in interior décor trends. Think pink walls, pink tiles, pink upholstery. There's no escaping this shade that has been in vogue for several seasons now, and you know what they say – if you can't beat them, join them. From snazzy shophouse locales to heartland cafés, here is a list of pink-themed joints to get the perfect shot for your 'gram.  RECOMMENDED: The most Instagrammable cafes in Singapore and the best floral cafés and restaurants in Singapore

These days, cafes aren’t just about freshly brewed coffee. Some are sharing their digs with gyms and sports hubs, while others are doubling their corners as a record store, art gallery and event space – all for an innovative all-in-one experience, which we're sold. For some coffee and culture, we’ve mapped out the best lifestyle cafes with specially curated art showcases, retail spaces, music paraphernalia, and even art jamming sessions. RECOMMENDED: The best lifestyle cafes for sports and fitness enthusiasts and the best cafes in Singapore

Kampong Glam was once reigned by Malay Sultans, but those days are long gone. The neighbourhood has since transformed into one of Singapore's oldest (and hippest) enclaves. Named after the gelam tree, Kampong Glam was once an ethnic enclave for the Muslim community in the 1800s. Now, it's a melting pot of vibrant cultures from all over the world, majestic cultural buildings, eye-popping street art, a myriad of restaurants and bars, and trendy shops.  RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods and the ultimate guide to Bugis

Located near the Kallang River, Paya Lebar was once a large swamp – hence, the Malay translation for 'wide swamp'. With a population increase, it started to see many rural settlements and agricultural grounds in its surrounding areas. However, in 1865, it was purchased and colonised by Richard Owen Norris who lived there with his family. But the vibrant cultural enclave was truly known to be home to one of the last Malay settlements on mainland Singapore – Kampong Melayu. Also known as Kampong Eunos, it stretched from Jalan Eunos to Sims Avenue and Changi Road, and is home to many Malays and wealthy Arabs including the Alkaff, Alsagoff, and Aljunied families. As the number of kampungs falls, the number of flats and malls rises, and this is not a surprising sight in Modern Singapore. But all is not lost. To preserve the Malay cultural heritage while turning Paya Lebar into the ultimate lifestyle and commercial destination in the east, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has plans to develop Paya Lebar Central, within which Geylang Serai is situated, into a centre characterised with its distinct cultural identity – giving you more reasons to visit this up-and-coming neighbourhood. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods and the ultimate guide to Kallang

While there is a slew of iconic landmarks like the Supertrees and Marina Bay Sands that every visitor should see when they visit Singapore, the city harbours a lesser-known side waiting to be explored. For those seeking off-the-beaten path experiences, these unique tour offerings, led by passionate guides who know the city inside out, provide the perfect opportunity to forge a connection to Singapore and its charming neighbourhoods and history. RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and the best hiking trails in Singapore

Time to get there: About three hours by car and ferry Dreaming of a seaside retreat? Swap the Maldives for something closer to home: Rawa Island. The coral island gets its name from the local term for white doves, its resident birdies. And speaking of white, this natural beauty also has a white sandy beach, and clear azure-blue waters where you can spot fishes swimming in it. DO Besides sinking your toes in the sand, let your young thrill-seekers whoosh down the two water slides, while older kids take on water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. If you’re ready to dive deeper, earn your PADI certificate in just a couple days with OrcaNation Dive Centre. For land activities, gather the fam for a hike up Hilltop Walk where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the island. STAY There are only two resorts on the island: Rawa Island Resort and Alang’s Rawa. As the latter has an adults-only policy on weekends, book your weekend stay at Rawa Island Resort which offers full board packages for four of its room categories. The Hillside Deluxe package starts from $776, and includes two nights, three daily meals, two-way boat transfer from Mersing, and a welcome drink. For a larger and quieter alternative, check into the Frangipani Villa which starts from $1042. It’s free for children under three, and additional $137 for children between four and 12.

Getting there: Under an hour by car Sometimes the best family fun is just a Causeway away. Johor Bahru has everything for kids and adults, from Legoland Malaysia for Lego fans to lush greenery and scenic landscapes for nature lovers. The city break also makes a great opportunity for families to delve into its history, traditions, and of course, its tantalising array of culinary delights. DO Whether you’re planning to stay or just do the rounds at the theme park, Legoland is a dream come true for every kid. It ticks the boxes for family fun, from over 80 shows, rides and attractions to unique overnight experiences. For something less gaudy but equally fun, Danga Bay has an indoor playground, carnival rides and plenty of food spots to satisfy your cravings.  STAY Besides the super playful Legoland Hotel, there’s also Somerset Medini Iskandar Puteri just two minutes away. A spacious studio here starts from $123, and comes with a kitchenette for all those home-cooked meals. There’s also an ocean-themed Children’s Room complete with a mini playground, colourful murals, and educational toys ready to brighten up your kiddo’s stay. Read our guide to Johor Bahru.

Time to get there: About two hours by car or bus A stone’s throw away from the Causeway, Desaru Coast spans over 3,900 acres along a pristine 17-km stretch of beachfront paradise. Whether you’re a family of beach bums or bird-loving adventurers, this place will leave you spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoorsy things to do. DO If you’re looking to make a splash beyond Desaru Beach, head over to Adventure Waterpark which is home to the first-ever water coaster in the region and one of the world’s biggest wave pools. Go even bigger by checking out Desaru Ostrich Farm. It’s Malaysia’s largest one with over 200 of these big, flightless birds roaming around its grounds. STAY For a stress-free vacay, trust Desaru Coast Destination Resort to plan your itinerary with its resort packages. Book a stay at one of its properties including Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas. Starting from $263 per night, it offers sea-facing rooms for a stunning sunrise view. Splurge a little more for a villa with a private plunge pool or a residence with an infinity pool and beach access. There’s also a kids’ club complete with a climbing wall and soft play, as well as a dedicated area for teens to get their game on. Read our guide to Desaru Coast.

Time to get there: Under an hour by ferry Less than an hour ferry ride away, this Indonesian island's white sandy beaches and gorgeous resorts make it the perfect beach vacay without the crowds of Bali. Even if you're not one to catch a tan or relax at a spa, the island is loaded with a range of heart-pumping land and water activities as well as idyllic nature trails. DO Slip into your wetsuit for the first and largest man-made saltwater lagoon in Southeast Asia: Crystal Lagoon. Try water activities such as the bumper boat, water stand-up paddle, inflatable kayak, water ZOVB, cable ski, and more. The Safari Lagoi on the other hand is great for animal-loving kiddos where they can say hello to many rescued and endangered animals including orangutans, Komodo dragons, sun bears, Asian elephants, and more. STAY There are plenty of luxurious resorts dotted around the island. But if you’re looking for something different to spice up your family vacay, why not try a glamping experience? Stay at the spacious, safari-themed tents at Natra Bintan (formerly known as The Canopi) which is equipped with four-poster beds, outdoor jacuzzis, and a private garden for a barbecue. Prices vary. Read our guide to Bintan.

Time to get there: Under an hour by plane With sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture, a vacay at the gloriously green Phuket is like stepping into a postcard of tropical bliss. The ultimate family getaway spot, it has something for every member of the clan to enjoy, from action-packed activities for older kids to the island's only ethical elephant sanctuary which will leave the younger ones in awe.  DO Too many to list! The place is great for various water sports including kayaking through mangroves and exploring hidden coves and soft corals. There's no shortage of land fun either. Try your hand in Muay Thai boxing, visit the trunked darlings at Phang Nga Elephant Park, and tour the Old Town's colourful streets. STAY Designed with families in mind, Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites is decked with a colourful kids' club, outdoor playground, pool and rock climbing wall. It also has a daily line-up of activities to keep the young ones busy. Babysitting is also available if mummy and daddy are looking for some kid-free time. A designer villa for three adults and one child, complete with a private pool as well as indoor and outdoor living spaces starts from $493.

Time to get there: About two hours and a half by ferry and car Who says you have to be a billionaire to jet off to a private island? Nestled off the coast of Bintan, Nikoi Island makes a great escape away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. A kid-friendly alternative to the adult-only Cempedak Island, this villa-only resort offers a return to simplicity, fostering unforgettable moments amid natural beauty and tranquility.  DO Choose to do as much or as little as you like, from enjoying a spa session to making the most with water activities. Keep the kiddos busy at the kids club which is decked with wooden play equipment, a pirate ship, and climbing frames. But with Tarzan ropes to swing on, natural rock slides, and treehouses to hide, we’re sure Nikoi will be able to capture the young ones’ imagination. STAY There are only 18 sea-facing rustic villas for you to choose from, with a one-bedroom villa complete with a king-sized bed, two bathrooms and daybeds on the open-air decks starting from $390 per night. The private pool villas are ideal for families with older kids.

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.

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.

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!

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."

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.

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.

In the spirit of the season of giving, SG Cares Giving Week is back to empower us ordinary heroes to unleash our superpower of kindness – no capes required. From December 1 to 7, the annual giving bash is rolling out an exciting lineup of programmes set to the theme of an endearingly localised phrase: "Just Give Lah!" It's a shoutout to every hero, big or small, to give their time, talent, treasure and voice alongside friends and family to support the causes they are passionate about. First up, Eagles Mediation & Counselling Centre (EMCC) is throwing its Giving Market on December 2 and 3 as part of its Tapestry of Hope campaign. Expect a dialogue session with Beyond The Label ambassadors, mental health talks, artsy workshops, shopping booths, and even a photo exhibit. There’s also a communal art masterpiece in the making at the event, and you get to add your splash of magic to it too!  Make-A-Wish Singapore is making dreams come true with a heartwarming fundraising campaign on Giving.sg, calling for everyone to generously contribute to granting life-changing wishes for children battling critical illnesses. Look forward to the Wishmas campaign where it’s all about spreading joy while you eat, play, and shop your way to making a difference every single day. Do good and feel good while you sweat for a cause at the Movement For Good Carnival on December 9. Promising an energetic atmosphere, the event brings together members of organiser Push Pull Give, beneficiaries from disadvan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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