Cam Khalid

Singapore’s 50 square miles are a breeze to explore with our convenient public transport system and easily navigable roads. Even so, a guided tour helps tourists and locals delve deeper into the city’s food, culture, neighbourhoods and spaces. Our island boasts a variety of tours: walking, biking, boats, motorised vehicles and hidden neighbourhoods, hawker centres and museums. Put yourself in a tour guide’s capable hands and book yourself in for one of these experiences. RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and the best hiking trails in Singapore

Ah, the perils of dating. So you've exhausted your list of cafés to café hop together and you've had enough of boring movie and dinner dates. 'What else is there to do in Singapore?', you question. It's time to spice things up a little with some fun and unique activities to do with your main squeeze. They say the course of true love never did run smooth so it's time to skip the mediocre date nights for something al little more exciting. Here's a list of date ideas in Singapore where all you couples can do all your couple-ly things together. RECOMMENDED: The best free date ideas in Singapore and the best alternative date ideas for goths in Singapore

if you're looking to master that complicated footwork, pirouette like a pro, loosen up those hips and bust a breakdance on the dancefloor, the city's got plenty of classes to get you started. From ballet to Bollywood numbers, salsa to tango, K-Pop to hip-hop, these studios will have you dancing like no one's watching. And once you're ready to dance up a storm, hit Singapore's hottest clubs and show off your best moves. RECOMMENDED: The best pole studios in Singapore and interview: Sandhya Suresh takes on the traditional dance of Odissi

Housed in Singapore’s most culturally vibrant districts, these contemporary boutique hotels are a refreshing alternative to established hotel chains we all love. These swish hotels reveal an oft-unseen facet of our modern metropolis and promise to beguile you with their distinctive charms. All are designed to offer you a slice of comforting luxury without being too far from the hustle and bustle of city life.  Whether you're choosing to isolate yourself in a peaceful setting away from home or spending quality time with your significant other, these boutique and shophouse hotels in Singapore have all it takes for the perfect staycation.  RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Singapore and the most romantic hotels in Singapore

Want to break a sweat without breaking the bank? These gyms in Singapore not only offer affordable rates that are less than $100 a month but are also as well-equipped as premium gyms with state-of-art fitness gear including everything from cardio machines to free weights. With some dotted around the CBD and the heartlands with 24-hour access, there's no reason not to gear up for some grind-time-prime-time. RECOMMENDED: The best gyms in Singapore and the best HIIT gyms and studios to work out in Singapore

We know, we know – dating is more about the camaraderie rather than the venue. But that’s no reason not to impress your date by taking them to the most romantic places or restaurants even if you’re broke. No matter what sort of couple you are, Singapore has a myriad of things to do. From getting a cultural fix at the museum to going on a nature trail, vibe with your romantic partner at one of these eclectic locations without all the extra charges. Aren't the best things in life free? RECOMMENDED:  Unique and fun date ideas in Singapore and the most romantic restaurants in Singapore

It's a no-brainer that the best place to put your fitness plan in motion is the gym. It's equipped with the essentials – cutting-edge machines, experienced personal trainers and all sorts of group classes like boxing, spin and HIIT. From 24-hour centres that won’t have you breaking the bank to luxury ones with stunning views, smoothie bars and high-end changing rooms, there’s no reason to skip a workout. Get kitted out and break a sweat at the city's top-notch gyms. RECOMMENDED: The best gyms and fitness studios in Singapore

Singapore may be small in size but you'll be surprised to find plenty of green spaces including farms (yes, we've got farms!) – if you know where to look. Leave the car at home, hop on a bicycle and explore these cycling trails in and around the city. Don't worry, we've included plenty of leisure beginner-friendly options (with a good view to boot), intense mountain biking tracks and everything else in-between to suit all abilities.  RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails in Singapore and the best mountain biking trails in Singapore

Buzzed and ready to rumble? As a city that never sleeps, Singapore has some of the best late-night spots and nightclubs for party animals to revel in until the early morn. Not a night owl? Don't worry, we've got our fair share of beach clubs and rooftop venues too – perfect for living it up while the sun's still out. From energetic hip-hop and R&B, to thumping house and techno, here are the steamy dancefloors we hope to shake up soon.  RECOMMENDED: The best supper spots in Singapore for late-night dining and 15 reasons why you should stay out late in Singapore    

In search of the perfect over-the-top bouquet to surprise your loved ones on a special occasion? Or just looking for some lovely blooms to beautify your home? Whatever the reason – you don't really need one – there's no denying that a lovely bunch of flowers can make anyone's day. Whatever your style is, be it rustic and wild or a neat cluster of peonies, we pick our favourite florists in town that offers the best bunch for any occasion to fit your preference.  RECOMMENDED: How to choose the perfect bouquet of flowers and easy floral arrangement ideas to beautify your home

One of the greatest holiday activities is driving through the neighbourhoods glittering with Christmas lights. We have some exquisite displays right here in Singapore, and when it comes to Christmas lights, the more the merrier. Whether you prefer twinkling displays you can walk through or a drive-through extravaganza, these Christmas light destinations offer thrilling holiday experiences for the whole family.  On the list includes the fan-favourite Christmas Wonderland and dazzling lights along Orchard Road. Not only do these displays lighten up moods, but they also make excellent additions to the 'gram and idyllic backdrops while you shop or stroll through the man-made winter wonderland. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Christmas in Singapore and the best shops in Singapore for Christmas trees and decorations   

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

Fill yourself up with national pride this August with Red Dot August, a free virtual programme presented by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. It's a live music extravaganza this time, featuring an exciting line-up of local musicians taking the stage to express what's uniquely Singaporean. Highlights include a powerful performance by Krysta Joy, known for her earthy tones and soulful lyrics; Margin for Error, a collaboration between poet Karisa Poedjirahardjo and folk-pop musician Vivien Yap; and Echoes from the Other Side, a conversation through music, poetry and dance by Diverse Abilities Dance Collective. 

Asian Film Archive (AFA) is celebrating the works of Iranian film director Abbas Kiarostami at Oldham Theatre, where it will screen eight feature films, four short features and 12 short films, including rarely-seen early short films made during pre-revolution Iran as well as brand new restorations – in 2K and 4K, no less. Look forward to renowned works such as Close-up and Palme d’Or-winning Taste of Cherry. This is the first time a retrospective of the late visionary filmmaker has been presented in Singapore. Before his untimely death in 2016, he was considered by many cinephiles to be among the world's greatest living filmmakers, and his films make for an excellent introduction to the vibrant world of Iranian cinema. Observe how he brilliantly experimented with the boundaries between reality and fiction with Retrospective: Abbas Kiarostami. Tickets will go on sale on Monday, July 5 after 6pm on AFA's Peatix Page.

Have a mini-Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) celebration at 36 Club Street as it transforms into a craft beer pop-up from June 21 to July 4. In line with the current government guidelines, the pop-up will operate with a maximum group size of two people, with all safety measures in place. Expect plenty of good vibes in the form of booze, bites, and even art.  But first, ready your chompers for a pizza and bar snacks menu whipped up by chefs Sam Chablani and XR. Then wash it all down with the craft beer of your choice – there's Lion Brewery Co, Off Day, Alive Brewing Co, Rye & Pint, Sunbird Brewing Co, Brewlander, Little Creatures, and more at a steal. The beer offering is also supplemented by a selection of single-batch beers specially brewed in-house at the microbrewery. Whether you lean towards a crisp, refreshing lager, or a more potent, hoppy IPA, there's something for everyone at this mini shindig. While you're at it, look out for a locally themed black and white photography showcase by Singapore-based shutterbug Kathryn Howard, sign painting by up-and-coming designer Jennifer O’Connor, as well as a selection of kaleidoscopic prints by local curators GOFY which feature works by creatives from around the region. These prints are also available to purchase at $300 a pop. 36 Club Street is serving lunch and dinner daily from June 21, with table bookings now open. For more information on the pop-up, check out its event page here.

A trip to Johor Bahru isn't complete without the buttery coffee buns of Rotiboy. But since crossing the causeway is off the cards for now, the Malaysian bakery chain is making its Singapore comeback with a new outlet at Kinex, which recently opened on June 13. Comeback? That's right – this isn't the Rotiboy's first foray into the Lion City. First opened in Penang in 1998, the bakery chain has expanded beyond Malaysia, setting up camp in different parts of the world including Indonesia, South Korea, China, Saudi Arabia, and even Singapore in 2004. However, its Singapore gig didn't last long as it eventually packed up and left two years later. And the only way to get a taste of its signature coffee buns is to pay our next-door neighbour a visit. But now that it's back with its new Kinex outlet, we can all breathe easy. Expect Rotiboy's pride and joy, which is a sweet, soft bun with coffee-flavoured cookie crust and moist, buttery filling. Besides the classic Rotiboy, there are other flavours such as buttermilk, mocha and cheese – all freshly baked in-house. Prices range between $2.50 to $3 a pop. These heavenly buns are available for walk-in purchases, as well as pre-orders for next-day collection if you're looking to beat the queue. For more information, visit rotiboy.sg.

Videogames are a big business – even the eSports industry is booming. Always pushing the envelope, videogames are about to level up as they go from the small screen to the big museum gallery with Virtual Realms: Videogames Transformed. Set to make its global premiere at the ArtScience Museum on June 12, the multi-sensorial exhibition re-imagines videogames as a captivating 21st-century art form – one that avid gamers and contemporary art lovers can experience in virtual and physical realms under one roof. Prepare to engage your senses with six impressive installations. These large-scale, immersive commissions are put together by six of the world's leading videogame developers including Kojima Productions, Enhance, thatgamecompany, Tequila Works, Media Molecule, and David OReilly. These developers have also partnered with six leading media design studios including Rhizomatiks, Field.IO, The Mill, Marshmallow Laser Feast, onedotzero, and The Workers to birth kaleidoscopic worlds and sonic landscapes that will wow you. Each of these jazzy realms is driven by a unique theme – Synthesia, Unity, Connection, Play, Narrative, and Everything. From "seeing" sounds and "feeling" visuals to experimenting in both the physical and virtual worlds, these installations will have you tapped into your imagination the moment your step inside the gallery. A global collab, Virtual Realms is curated and organised by UK's arts and learning organisation the Barbican, with celebrated videogame designe

Hollywood, Bollywood, Nollywood. We might not have a special name for our film industry, but we did come close – we were once affectionately known as "Southeast Asia's Hollywood". The golden era of Singapore and Malayan cinema was at its peak in the 1950s and 1960s where over 300 masterpieces were shot and produced in Singapore between the two decades. For a blast to the movie past, the fourth edition of SAM Mini Mobile Museum is taking on three public libraries with Slander! by multidisciplinary artist Jeremy Sharma. It kickstarts at Woodlands Regional Library from June 9 to July 21, before travelling to Jurong and Tampines regional libraries on July 28 and September 15 respectively. Titled after the 1959 film Korban Fitnah (Victims of Slander), the exhibition invites movie buffs to rediscover the films produced between 1958 and 1963 – which is the period sandwiched between the post-war heyday of Singapore’s film industry and Singapore’s independence day – through a choreography of film footages, digitised images, text, objects, and printed matter. It also features themes that recur in the artist’s practice – the modernist notions of shape, size, scale, seriality, and repetition. For the uninitiated, Jeremy's works and experiments often explore various scenes and places through a contemporary lens. He has produced installations that include sound, performance, and moving images, with a particular interest in cultural archives. In Slander!, he examines how the golden era of

Sometimes, the best way to express yourself is through fashion. And you don't need a passion for fashion, either. While Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall's latest exhibition showcases the clothes worn by Chinese women since the 19th century, it's more than just clothing trends. From June 12 to December 12, the heritage institution is using fashion to chart the history and evolution of modern women in Singapore and China. See how women's status, roles and lifestyles have changed over the past century or so through close to 100 artefacts and photographs which are heavily focused on Chinese women's clothing and accessories. Some even dating almost 100 years back! For easy navigation, the exhibition is split into three separate sections. The political changes in society from the 1890s to the 1930s are showcased in Charting Change Through Fashion; the evolving notion of a modern woman from the 1930s to the 1960s can be found in Imagining the Ideal Modern Woman; and how fashion empowered working women in Singapore from the 1950s to the 1970s is in Dressing Modern Working Women in Singapore. On using fashion, assistant curator Ms Tan Yan Ni says, "Fashion, besides being a form of self-expression, is often a reflection of the times. This is why we chose fashion as a medium to tap into broader conversations, to discuss women's multi-faceted and ever-changing roles across history, and how their contributions are integral to the political, social and economic development of a society." She cont

The Force is strong. The Star Wars Identities: The Exhibition has been extended until June 27, so there's still time to catch it at ArtScience Museum if you haven't already. The exhibition first landed its Millennium Falcon on our shores on January 13, and was slated to run until June 13. Singapore marks the final stop of its global tour, so you won't want to miss it out. Get to know the Star Wars characters on a whole new level with close to 200 original props, costumes, models and artwork from the film franchise, as well as the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art archive. The exhibition includes one of Darth Vader's earliest outfits, the metal bikini that Princess Leia wore when she captured by Jabba the Hutt, and a model of the Imperial fleet, Star Destroyer. It's not your typical movie exhibition either – Star Wars Identities takes you on a customised, interactive identity quest to gain new insights into how the characters were developed, so expect some surprises. It also gives you the opportunity to discover your own personal identities in the Star Wars galaxy and how the Force shapes you – are you on the Light Side or Dark Side? Are you a Wookiee, Nautolan, Ewok, or one of another dozen options? To help you with your discovery, the exhibition has divided its study of human identity into three key themes: the characters’ origins (Origins), the influences that shaped them (Influences), and the personal choices that changed their lives (Choices). Within these three themes, anoth

Whether you're planning to grow a mini garden in your backyard or en route to transforming your home into a jungalow, Gardens by the Bay's #StayHomeWithGB is the guide you need to understand the art of horticulture. Watch the green-fingered team behind the gorgeous floral displays and garden landscapes flex their expertise through a variety of edutaining plant-related content. Watch video tutorials on DIY gardening projects and botanical crafts, gather the kids for art activities and e-books, go on virtual tours of the Gardens, and more. There's even an eShop offering plants, terrariums and gardening supplies too.

As much as we're pining for a massive get-together this Hari Raya Aidilfitri, we'll just have to settle for a small one at home or virtually due to the current restrictions which include limiting social gatherings to two people. But what's Hari Raya without some song and dance, and a bit of drama? To keep us entertained and connected during these times of uncertainty, Esplanade is throwing the 20th edition of its annual Pesta Raya from June 10 to 27, coinciding with the last week of Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The yearly affair is eulogised for celebrating Malay arts, heritage and culture, spotlighting the best of contemporary and traditional theatre, dance and music from the Nusantara (Malay Archipelago).  This year's edition features a mix of arts performances and short films. While all ticketed programmes, including a solo concert by 1970s Singapore icon Sanisah Huri, double-bill theatre production Pulang Balik by Teater Ekamatra, and multimedia music presentation Tempoh by Orkestar Trio and Djangat, have been cancelled due to the new guidelines, free online programmes have been given the green light to proceed. After all, the show must go on. Opening the festival on June 10 is a rousing music performance by Gamelan Asmaradana, Gendang Akustika and Aliran Bebas, Sounding of the Drums. Expect the drums and gongs that have marked the start of many traditional events and rituals in the Malay Archipelago. Other must-see highlights include contemporary dance showcase Rumahku by Azpi

Got a mini Picasso at home? Unlock your child's creativity with the third edition of Gallery Children's Biennale. But with the current restrictions, expect a comeback like nothing before. Instead of the usual labyrinth of interactive artworks at National Gallery Singapore, the bi-yearly multi-sensorial art experience returns with its first-ever hybrid edition from May 22, 2021 until December 2022. The inaugural "phygital" edition kicks off with an online experience via a kaleidoscopic microsite on May 22, followed by on-site art installations at National Gallery Singapore on September 4. And that's not the only first. With the microsite, the Biennale also goes global for the very first time too, making its exciting arty programmes available to children all around the world. Guided on the inquiry "Why Art Matters", the Biennale highlights the importance of home, diversity, time and the environment through art and imaginative play. The curious kiddos can look forward to interactive online adventures, immersive storytelling sessions, and digital artmaking with local and international artists as well as fellow children from other countries. When it comes to the artworks, the Biennale is not short of eye-catching online works and on-site installations that families can engage with. These are specially created by nine local and international artists including Dinh Q Lê (Vietnam), Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan (Philippines/Australia), Jeremy Sharma (Singapore), Joyce Ho (Taiwan), Kh

After three years since it was closed for a major redevelopment, Changi Chapel and Museum is finally reopening its doors on May 19. The museum is, arguably, the most iconic of World War II (WWII) sites in Singapore – never mind the fact that the museum is housed in a purpose-built venue, and the chapel is a reconstruction (the original was shipped to Australia after the war).  Following the update, the commemorative site features new content and artefacts showcased in an intimate and engaging format. History buffs can look forward to artefacts that complement those in other WWII sites such as the Former Ford Factory, and Reflections of Bukit Chandu which is set to reopen later this year. At Changi Chapel and Museum, the main interest lies in the stories of industry and ingenuity within the Prisoners-of-War (POW) camps in Singapore. And with new multimedia offerings, you can uncover the lesser-known accounts of the internees, prison conditions back then, and legacies left behind by three and a half years of the Japanese Occupation through an enhanced immersive experience. Other key highlights here include old favourites such as a section of the Changi Prison Wall, a Morse code device that was concealed in a matchbox used by POWs, and replicas of various biblical murals that were painted to provide spiritual solace during the war. If it all gets too much, the chapel, which is located in the courtyard of the museum, makes a good spot for some quiet reflection.  To welcome back

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

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