Cheryl Sekkappan

Almost three years since the you-know-what put all our plans on hold, it’s set to be a pretty big year for getting out and doing things. 2023 has come through with an absolutely loaded cultural calendar – we’re talking the biggest summer for live music since 2019, a bunch of new museums, some pretty epic outdoor adventures, and much, much more. Plus, with all the new high-speed and overnight trains launching this year, you can get around and do the things you want to do much more sustainably than ever before.  So get your booking fingers at the ready. From music festivals and new museums to massive shops and the real-life Mushroom Kingdom, this is your definitive guide to the coolest new things to do in the world in 2023. RECOMMENDED:  🖼️ The best museums and galleries in the world🚂 The most incredible train journeys around the world🌊 The cities that could be underwater by 2030🌹 The most romantic places in the world 🍸 The coolest bars in the world right now🤿 The best beaches in the world

Even if you and your partner aren’t big on gifts or grand gestures, it is never a bad idea to remind him how special he is with a thoughtful gift that will make his day. Better still if it is something he will actually want to use on a daily basis. Whether your man is an old soul who has a soft spot for the written word or a fitness nut who loves being outdoors, we’ve put together a selection of memorable gift ideas that he is sure to appreciate. RECOMMENDED: The best Valentine's Day gifts for her

Most of us are back in the office – that means packed schedules and more work obligations – including entertaining clients and catching up with colleagues over a meal. For those of us based in the CBD, we’re lucky: there’s no shortage of good restaurants and cafes. Closing deals with prospects, breaking bread with colleagues or just looking to take the pressure off, we've got a restaurant catered to every budget – excluding taxes.  Here's where you can get the best business lunch sets in the CBD for your next work meeting. RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore and the best happy hour deals in the city

In Singapore, food is often the language of love. Whether you're looking for casual coffee and bites for a blind date, a cosy dinner place to impress a loved one, or somewhere special to celebrate Valentine's day, here are some dining options in Singapore – and get this, they're Muslim-friendly too. Now, let's get in the mood for love.  RECOMMENDED: The best halal Italian restaurants in Singapore

Orchard Road may be touted as the iconic shopping belt in Singapore but there are heaps of cool independent stores where you can find local labels, vintage memorabilia and random knick-knacks. Here are seven hipper-than-thou shops to check out, along with one must-buy item from each to bring home. RECOMMENDED: Vintage shopping in Singapore and The best thrift shops in Singapore

With Valentine's Day on the horizon, are you feeling crushed by the struggle to find the perfect gift for your significant other? Not to worry, we've got ideas for you to consider. They say it's the thought that counts, so we've rounded up a collection of meaningful gifts to convey everything you want to say during this season of love.  RECOMMENDED: The best chocolate shops in Singapore for gifting and the most romantic restaurants in Singapore    

Let out that huge sigh of relief now that the long month of January is over. But pick yourself up quickly because here comes the shortest month of the year: February. There are also plenty of reasons to celebrate this month. This February sees a stellar line-up of live concerts as well as the arrival of exciting night markets and immersive experiences. Failing all that, just get lovey-dovey with your boo (or yourself – #selfcare!) at the city's most romantic corners and restaurants.  RECOMMENDED: The definitive guide on things to do in Singapore and the ultimate guide to Chinese New Year in Singapore

You don't need a special occassion to express your love and appreciation for your beloved. Whether it's Valentine's Day, a birthday, an anniversary, or a normal every day, chocolate treats in elegantly-packaged boxes are sure to delight. We shine the spotlight on Singapore's homegrown chocolateries for the cutest gift boxes to impress your loved ones with.  RECOMMENDED: The best flower delivery services in Singapore and The best buffets in Singapore

Chinese New Year celebrations are still going strong this weekend. Add some fun to your festivities with the return of Chingay Parade, and interactive activities at the National Museum of Singapore. For some good vibes and bagels, Rumours Beach Club is where it's at. Disney fans can look forward to Frozen The Hit Broadway Musical at the Marina Bay Sands’ Sands Theatre this February 5. Scroll down to see all the events you can hit up during the weekend. RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and The ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas in Singapore    

Finding the right blooms can be a tricky task, especially if you’re aiming for something thoughtful, meaningful and reflective of the person you’re sending it to. In other words, delivering flowers to someone takes a little bit of planning, because you’ll need to locate the best place to create your perfect arrangement. Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up some of the best flower delivery services around town. From the big and bold to the bespoke, these stores specialise in making arrangements that’ll put a smile on your giftee’s face.  RECOMMENDED: The best florists in Singapore and how to choose the perfect bouquet of flowers

Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines share a lot in common – think grilled meats, salads, flatbreads, spices, hummus, herbs, grains and legumes. It's often a grey area where one ends and the other begins, but the fact remains that you can't ever go wrong with either. If you're craving the vibrancy and textures of these cuisines, here's where to dine for outstanding Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food in Singapore.  RECOMMENDED: The best Peruvian restaurants in Singapore and The best Greek restaurants in Singapore

Gather the fam or crew for some fun in the sun on Sentosa Island. From thrilling amusement park rides and a 50-meter bungee jump, to a cocktail at one of the many fancy bars and restaurants by beach, Sentosa has much to offer for anyone looking to have a bit of fun or rest and relax time. Here are the best things to do while you're there.  RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods

Bazaar Raya Geylang Serai 2023 is set to return ten times bigger this year, with 700 stalls (up from 70 last year) setting up shop on the streets come March 17. It will also be the longest-running edition in history, sticking around for a whopping 36 days – plenty of time for you to check out all the F&B and retail goodies.  The theme of the annual bazaar is Raya Gemilang, meaning 'glorious feast', and will feature two concept zones. The first is Souq City, a market in the vicinity of Wisma Geylang Serai where you'll find stalls hawking food, drinks and retail items. This is also where you can get in the spirit of giving – look out for community shelves in Souq City, where you can leave non-perishable halal food and clothing.  The second concept is the Street Bazaar, which will stretch from Geylang Serai Market to the area beside Tanjong Katong Complex. This area will showcase three distinct themes as well as interactive art installations.  The first day of Bazaar Raya Geylang Serai 2023 will coincide with the annual Hari Raya light-up in Geylang Serai. The festival market will run daily from 10am to 11.59pm with an extension until 6am in the lead-up to Hari Raya on April 22. Watch this space for more updates on this year's bazaar.    

The creative folks at The Glass Hut have found a new home, and they're throwing a big bash to celebrate that fact with this weekend's Arty Farty After Party. Happening from January 12 to 14 at 140 Cecil Street, the event will see three days of a daytime art market, followed by scintillating DJ sets well into the night. Swing by for live jazz funk on Thursday, house music on Friday, and thumping techno on Saturday. We've got a full house of talents here, including UK saxophonist Toby Lee, singer-songwriter Maya Raisha, and producers Tanaka and Matsalleh. 

One of the most anticipated events on Singapore’s annual calendar is Light to Night, best known for its stunning illumination of key cultural institutions in the Civic District. This year, Light to Night returns with the theme of Here and Now, featuring immersive installations, interactive artworks, and more well-loved programmes and performances to celebrate the present moment. Beloved festival village Art X Social also returns with over 50 food and beverage stalls, new art and craft brands, as well as live performances and outdoor workshops. Light to Night also features a slew of programming meant to help you gain a better appreciation of the arts. Soak in the festival vibes at Gallery Gigs and Gallery Mix, which will feature live performances by the likes of Aisyah Aziz, Lalit Kumar and Anise x Sonia Kwek; speak to Gallery curators and artists at Artsplaining; or have a laugh at Funny Fridays, a free-for-all stand-up comedy series featuring talents like Patricia Mok and Siraj Aziz.  There's a lot to get excited about for Light to Night. Besides the iconic Art Skins on Monuments, which will be illuminating the facades of National Gallery Singapore, The Arts House, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, and more nightly (7.30pm to midnight) till January 26 – here are five other exhibits you should not miss.  1. Botanica by Studio McGuire Located in the National Gallery Singapore's Rotunda Library & Archives, this stunning Art Skins on Monuments work features a canopy of flowers

Come experience a world of wonder at Where The Magic Happens, Singapore's first magic festival happening at Somerset Youth Park from January 6 to 8. Presented by Darren Tien, one half of the homegrown award-winning magic duo Darren and Jerryl, the event promises a night of theatrical magic shows, visual arts installations, live music, food and drink, and activities for the whole family.  Anchoring the event are six ticketed live shows by eight talented magicians, each conjuring worlds of wonder and curiousity according to chosen themes. Catch Indonesia's Got Talent Golden Buzzer recipient and runner-up Cassidy Lee in a showcase of visual and mental magic, get your mind read in a comical magic show by one of Singapore's top mentalists Mark Lee, or take the Red Bus back to a time of childlike wonder in the headline show Dear Dreamers by Darren and Jerryl themselves.  You can also enter the festival grounds for free to enjoy fringe activities, live DJ sets and pop-up food experiences. Get a temporary Jaguar tattoo from See Min from Henn Drawn, or receive guidance through a tarot card reading by digital content creator Rachel Wong. Roving magicians are on hand to spring some surprises, while visual art installations by artist Low Zi Hao, Krusty Labs, and more form the perfect backdrop to your Instagram-worthy shots.  Marquee Singapore's resident DJ, DJ Mass, and others will be amping up the atmosphere with trap, future bass, and ethereal vibrations, while WeeJam, Low Tide and mor

Singapore's mega art event Singapore Art Week (SAW) returns from January 6 to 15 with the theme of Play. Expect over 130 diverse arts events across Singapore, taking you from the familiar four walls of museums and right into the heartlands. From renowned arts fairs and exhibitions to smaller – but no less interesting – events, experiential trails, tours, and talks across the 10-day event, SAW is a sprawling showcase of Singapore's vibrant arts scene.  Marquee events include Light to Night Festival, which will see beloved cultural institutions in the Civic District illuminate in colourful, projected 'skins' alongside commissioned installations and multidisciplinary programmes. Other highlights include Aliwal Urban Art Festival, which celebrates the street culture movers and shakers through workshops, dance battles, and an art market.  There's something for the serious art collectors too. Don't miss the inaugural ART SG, Southeast Asia's largest art fair presenting more than 150 leading galleries from around the world. Meanwhile, SAW's anchor event S.E.A. Focus shines the spotlight on Southeast Asian contemporary art through a curated exhibition at Tanjong Pagar Distripark, alongside a film programme of artists' video works.  Besides its blockbuster programming, SAW is also surfacing a number of unconventional and independent arts experiences. See familiar things anew with Process: Roving Ideas, a self-guided experience around Singapore where you're invited to carry out site-sp

The world famous Café Kitsuné has landed in Singapore with a beautiful joint at Capitol Building. The French-Japanese chain was first opened in Paris by designer label Maison Kitsuné, and has since achieved cult status with 21 cafés in iconic locations around the world. The coffeehouse is known for its robust cuppas and fox-shaped sable cookies – which are among the signatures you'll find in our local joint too. The Singapore outlet brings the charm with locally-inspired touches. Check out the brand's signature fox emblem hidden in the wood panellings along the exterior of the café, and even in the Peranakan-inspired herringbone floor tilings. Giant monsteras and money plants bring a lush, tropical touch to the indoor space – and similarly to the al fresco seating space where you can bask under the sun.  Café Kitsuné has a pretty extensive menu of hot and cold beverages, not least of which are its coffees. Try single origin coffees sourced from Nicaragua, Guatamela and El Salvadore, which are roasted in Café Kitsuné's roastery in Okayama, Japan. But if you're aiming for something sweet, then we recommend going for its iced lattes such as earl grey dark chocolate ($9.50) and sesame ($8.50). The sweet treats are a must-try too. Sample all four flavours of its famed fox-shaped sable cookies – butter, sesame, chocolate, and matcha ($4 each). Other signatures are the Paris-Brest ($12), which has a fragrant hazelnut praline creme piped onto light choux pastry, and the matcha écla

Melbourne is often deemed the Mecca for coffee lovers, so you should be excited about the arrival of Puzzle Coffee. This artisan coffeehouse from Melbourne has just opened its first international outpost at ION Orchard – bringing pretty much the same philosophy of well-made, sustainably-produced cups of Joe.  The cosy space in Basement 1 of ION Orchard comfortably seats 20. Grab a spot and take your pick from the café's menu of coffees, which are all made from fairly-traded coffee beans from farms around the world. These are roasted weekly in Melbourne and sent straight to Singapore, too.  Well-loved signatures from its four Melbourne outlets have made it onto the menu, and besides the purists going for Puzzle Coffee's single origin Black ($5) or White signature blend ($6), we can already see the Instagram-savvy going for pretty options like the Biscoff Latte ($6.50) and Black Sesame Latte ($6). But for something that you can't get even in Melbourne, go for the Singapore-exclusive Sweet Potato Latte ($6.50). Another highlight is the Magic ($6) – it's not even on the Australian menu, but a secret favourite among Puzzle Coffee's regulars. Puzzle Coffee prides itself on being a socially responsible brand. A fun way that manifests is in its edible cups. Yup, that's fully edible and biodegradable cups made from oats and grains. Thankfully, these sturdy cups hold up well even when filled with hot drinks – and make for a good snack on the go too. You can try this edible cup at a t

Get your dose of independant cinema at the 33rd edition of the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), this year with a juggernaut programme comprising 101 films from 55 countries.  The programme is looking as inclusive as ever, with a Central Asian film opening the SGIFF for the first time. Don't miss Assault (2022) by famed Kazakhstani director Adilkhan Yerzhanov, a darkly comic thriller that centers on a group of villagers who band together to liberate elementary school students who have been taken hostage by a group of armed, masked men. There are many other gems to be discovered across SGIFF's festival programme. Throw your support behind local and Southeast Asian films found in the Asian Feature Film Competition, Southeast Asian Short Film Competition and Singapore Panorama. Don't miss highlights like Pakistani film Joyland (2022), which pushes the boundaries of gender and sexual norms with humour and emotional depth; Convenience Store (2022), offering a searing exposé of modern slavery set in Uzbekistan; and Boom, a film adaptation of Jean Tay's 2007 play about policy and progress in Singapore.  Also check out two new film programmes at SGIFF. Horizon shines a spotlight on standout movies scoured from film festivals all over the world, featuring titles like raw family documentary A Long Journey Home (2022) and powerful animated drama Nayola (2022). Meanwhile, Altitude showcases new works by some of the most established filmmakers today, setting the gold standard

Keeping up with a daily regimen of supplements has never been easier. Moom Health, a Singapore-based wellness start-up, is building a platform for anyone – and especially women – to build a personalised ritual of supplements meant to nourish the mind and the body.  Founded by sisters Mili and Maya Kale, Moom Health began from their years of struggles and frustration with late-stage hormonal acne, eczema and PCOS. 'Conventional' medical diagnoses and prescriptions were not working for the pair, prompting them to pour research into building personal rituals fusing asian and western traditions.  From packaging their own daily supplements into small jewellery bags to founding Moom Health, Mili and Maya are now bringing the same belief in natural remedies – blended with modern science and research – to the company. Personalisation is key, with a focus on women's health. The Moom Health journey typically begins with an expert-backed questionnaire about your lifestyle and health concerns, ending with a list of recommended supplements provided by Moom. Your chosen supplements are packed into daily packets, delivered on a monthly basis to your doorstep.  "We use organic when necessary, genetically modified-free when possible, clinically proven and studied when available, and consistently work to source the highest concentrated ingredients," say the sisters. Expect superpowered natural ingredients like amla, ashwaganda, and curcumin, known to benefit a spectrum of things from hair, to

Bangkok's famous night market first made it's Singapore debut at The Grandstand in February 2020, but was sadly cut short due to the coronavirus pandemic. Though Chatuchak Night Market's first venture outside Thailand wasn't exactly smooth sailing, it's coming back to Singapore for a second try.  The open-air bazaar will be returning to The Grandstand South Carpark for two whole months in 2023. Slated to run from February 7 to April 2, the Singapore edition will feature over 180 different vendors – with some flying in on a rotation basis from the original venue in Bangkok. Expect all things we love about the Bangkok market – quirky handicrafts, gorgeous antiques, whimsical wardrobe additions, and beautiful home decor pieces. Of course, the main draw for many will be the lip-smackingly good street food. Brave the queues to get your hands on a huge range of Thai cuisines. Beat the heat with sweet Thai milk tea (complete with a flashy tea-pulling performance), enjoy Thai roti prata from Satun province, try rich grilled sausages unique to E-Sarn in northeastern Thailand, or get your fill of Thai prawn vermicelli and mee korat. There will be over 200 seats set up over the venue too, so you can kick back and soak in the vibrant market atmosphere.  Chatuchak Night Market will be open almost daily from Tuesdays to Sundays, 4.30pm to 10.30pm. There will be complimentary parking and free shuttle bus services from Botanic Gardens and Sixth Avenue MRT stations too – all the better for yo

Southeast Asia's premier animation festival is back with more animated fare from different corners of the world. For this year, the festival will be coming – for the first time – to a theatre venue near you, namely Projector X: Picturehouse at the historic former Cathay Cinema on Handy Road.  Happening on October 22, Cartoons Underground will be screening a total of 16 films whittled down from almost 1700 animators from 96 different countries. Animation lovers should check out nine animated shorts competing in the international competition Out of This World, as well as seven animation films by young, Singapore-based animators in Wild Times. Those pursuing careers in animation should stick around for the Q&A discussion and networking session with the directors based here.  Looking to develop your skills in animation? Don't miss out a slew of events and activities put together by Cartoons Underground, *SCAPE, and Lasalle College of the Arts. Called Animated Visions, these include masterclasses, a story development lab, and industry meetup – all free to anyone who wishes to participate. Even more exciting is the fact that the masterclasses will be hosted by two animation experts – Directors Emily Dean (Netflix's LOVE, DEATH + ROBOTS Volume 3: The Very Pulse of the Machine) and Samantha Lee (director at Disney TV Animation with stints at Netflix, Warner, Dreamworks and more under her belt).  "This year, there’s a greater range of visual styles and storytelling approaches than eve

Say hello to Natasha, the name given to Singapore Biennale 2022. This year, the sprawling arts festival kicks off on October 16 with three levels of contemporary art at Singapore Art Museum (Tanjong Pagar Distripark), with more artworks, programmes, and activations radiating outwards across Singapore and beyond our coastline to the Southern Islands.  Join Natasha beyond the four walls of traditional art galleries and into everyday spaces, where you can explore, rest, and see art in a whole new way. One project is AWKNDAFFR's (Wayne Lim and Soh Kay Min) Islandwide Coverage, which incorporates artworks into the tapestry of life at the Singapore Flyer and regional libraries in the heartlands. Newly announced locations include International Plaza, which will feature The Library of Unread Books by Heman Chong and Renée Staal, and 22 Orchard Road, an old shophouse that will be showcasing works and practices that spotlight the artists' local communities from December onwards. Natasha will also be taking you to the Southern Islands, where you're invited to contemplate our relationship with nature, social practices and myths. Highlights include Fermentation House by Donghwan Kam, which features miniature house sculptures where soya sauce is being fermented. An extension of his previous work Fermentation Garden, where he cultivated kimchi instead, the piece is an exploreation of domestic practices and its relation to time.  At organiser Singapore Art Museum's homeground, Tanjong Pagar

Between the Geminid meteor show and an asteroid brushing by Earth just a few days ago, it’s been quite an exciting few months for astronomy geeks. And things are about to get spicier with the arrival of a once-in-a-lifetime green comet. Known as C/2022 E3 (ZTF), this comet only journeys past Earth once every 50,000 years – the last time it did, Neanderthals roamed the earth. The comet has been visible in our skies for the past month, but here’s how to catch a piece of the action as it makes its closest approach in the next few days. What is a green comet? Comets are giant snowballs of frozen gases, dust and rock that orbit the sun. As they travel closer to the sun, blasts of radiation turn its icy exterior to gas and debris, producing their characteristic long tail. In the case of C/2022 E3 (ZTF) it’s this atmosphere – called the ‘coma’ – burning up around it that shines with a unique green hue.  This rare green comet was first detected by astronomers in California in March 2022. As it has travelled towards us from the furthest reaches of outer space, it has been glowing steadily brighter and is now visible to the naked eye – at least in dark areas with low light pollution. When can I see the green comet in Singapore? Avid stargazers in Singapore have already been capturing shots of the comet in our skies – just check out awesome shots from the folks over at Stargazing Singapore.  To join the fun, head out on February 1 and 2 when the comet is expected to make its closest app

Bazaar Raya Geylang Serai 2023 is set to return ten times bigger this year, with 700 stalls (up from 70 last year) setting up shop on the streets come March 17. It will also be the longest-running edition in history, sticking around for a whopping 36 days – plenty of time for you to check out all the F&B and retail goodies.  The theme of the annual bazaar is Raya Gemilang, loosely translating to 'glorious feast', and will feature two concept zones. The first is Souq City, a market in the vicinity of Wisma Geylang Serai where you'll find stalls hawking food, drinks and retail items. This is also where you can get in the spirit of giving – look out for community shelves in Souq City, where you can leave non-perishable halal food and clothing.  The second concept is the Street Bazaar, which will stretch from Geylang Serai Market to the area beside Tanjong Katong Complex. This area will showcase three distinct themes as well as interactive art installations.  The first day of Bazaar Raya Geylang Serai 2023 will coincide with the annual Hari Raya light-up in Geylang Serai. The festival market will run daily from 10am to 11.59pm with an extension until 6am in the lead-up to Hari Raya on April 22. Watch this space for more updates on this year's bazaar.  READ MORE  Smith Street Tavern is a hidden British pub in a hawker centreSurrey Hills Deli debuts at Raffles City with 1-for-1 gourmet sandwichSingapore to host Asia's 50 best restaurants 2023 on March 28

Lay back and stare into a swirl of stars or let your thoughts drift in a field of irises at the celebrated Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience. This special showcase has been wowing more than 5 million visitors around the world since 2017 – and now it's our turn to step into some of the famous Dutch artist's most iconic paintings ourselves, because the show is finally coming to Singapore. Slated to show at Resorts World Sentosa this March, the exhibition promises to be an eye-popping extravaganza. The main draw is undoubtedly a 360-degree, two-storey immersive projection of Vincent van Gogh's most famous paintings, including The Starry Night and Wheatfield with Crows. These aren't static projections too – expect flying birds and swaying blooms, accompanied by atmospheric sound.  There's a virtual reality experience too. Don a VR headset and journey into the mind of the artist, where you'll learn about the inspiration behind eight of Van Gogh's artworks, including Bedroom at Arles and Starry Night Over the Rhone. Want to leave your mark? There's also an interactive segment where you can create your own painting and see it projected on the walls.  We expect Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience to be wildly popular here in Singapore. Top tip: join the waitlist to get access to limited early bird tickets. Otherwise, duke it out with the wider public when the general sale opens on January 19, 4pm. Tickets start at $15 for children and $24 for adults. For more information, visit vango

Love Hong Kong? Then rejoice, because the city is finally scrapping its amber health code from December 14 (Wednesday), effectively ending all travel restrictions for arrivals in to the city. Previously, those entering Hong Kong were subjected to a '0+3' regime. Under this, travellers were issued an amber code on their health app upon arrival, banning them from entering restaurants, gyms and beauty parlours for the first three days – even if they test negative for Covid-19. Now though, all incoming travellers who test negative will receive a blue code on their health app and are free to move freely around Hong Kong from day one. Those who test positive will still get a red health code and be isolated. There are still some rules to follow, of course. Arrivals must take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test at the airport and on their third day in Hong Kong. They also need to take a rapid antigen test (RAT) for five days.  Keep your vaccination records on hand too, because you will still be required to show them at restaurants and designated venues to gain entry. For more information, check out our guide to what you need to know about travelling to Hong Kong now.  READ MORE 8 secret Hong Kong islands we're dreaming of4 new attractions to check out in Hong Kong 2022Best things to see and do in Hong Kong this December   

Add some sparkle to the end of 2022 by catching the Geminid meteor shower, an annual celestial gift that you can catch right here in Singapore. This dazzling showcase peaks on December 14, when it's expected to generate up to 120 meteors per hour.  The Geminid meteor shower is so-called because it appears to radiate from the Gemini constellation. It's a unique meteor shower too, being one of the only major showers to originate from the debris of an asteroid rather than a comet – in this case the 3200 Pantheon. The Geminid shower's meteors are particularly bright and plentiful, making it one of the most impressive and reliable showers for sky watchers.  If you're keen to catch it yourself, you can join a viewing party with the Astronomical Society of Singapore on December 16 at Labrador Park. But if you want to try your own luck, your best chance is to head out on December 14 between 9pm to midnight, when the Geminid meteor shower reaches its peak – and before the bright gibbous moon rises.  Here's some advice from NASA for novice stargazers. Find a dark area free of city or streetlights and with a view of wide, open sky. You might want to bring a sleeping bag to lie flat on, with your feet facing south. Look up and allow your eyes 20 to 30 minutes to adjust – and it's best that you refrain from looking at your mobile phone or bright objects to keep your eyes attuned to the darkness. Assuming we have clear skies, you should be able to spot the bright Geminid meteors streaking

If you haven't heard, Indonesia has introduced new laws banning any hanky-panky between unmarried couples. That's right, sex outside of marriage is now punishable by up to one year in jail – and that applies to tourists too.  Announced on Tuesday (December 6), these new laws are part of a wider revision of Indonesia's colonial-era criminal code. A raft of limitations related to political and religious expression were also approved, banning things like the defamation of the president, criticism of state ideology, and the staging of protests without notification. Bali is a major hotspot for many Singaporean couples, so those with plans to head over for a vacation will likely have burning questions. Does Indonesia's new sex law affect me? How will it be enforced? Here are five things you need to know.  What are the new rules on sex outside of marriage?  Don't do it – Indonesia's new laws effectively bans all sex outside of marriage. Adultery is already banned in the country, but with this latest revision, unmarried couples caught doing the deed will be punishable by up to one year in jail. Cohabitation between unmarried couples will also be banned under the new criminal code.  Are the new laws already in effect?  If you really want to get steamy in Bali, the good news is that you still have about three years to do so. For now, President Joko Widodo has to sign off on the bill while lawmakers iron out regulations around the new criminal code.  How will the new laws be enforced? 

Singapore has once again snagged the notorious title of ‘most expensive city in the world’, this time sharing the top spot with New York. We also hold the dubious honour of being the costliest city for the eighth time in ten years, according to the Worldwide Cost of Living (WCOL) index from London-based Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The world’s biggest cities are not having it easy this year. The WCOL survey shows that prices have risen by an average of 8.1 percent in local currency terms over the past year – the fastest rate for at least 20 years. Singapore (and New York) face some of the strongest inflation rates, and because the WCOL survey converts local currency into US dollars during its evaluations, our strong currency has also contributed to our high position in the rankings. The EIU attributes these trends to the lingering effects of Covid-19 and the Ukraine war, impacting cost of goods, petrol, rentals, utilities, and more. We do feel the pinch – just look at how soaring inflation, rental rates, petrol prices, and general cost of living concerns have dominated 2022 headlines here in Singapore. There may be a light at the end of the tunnel – EIU says that price increases are set to ease next year. And if it’s any consolation, the Ministry of Manpower’s 2022 labour force report reported rising income and employment rates for Singaporeans and PRs too. But if you're still concerned, you can keep going back to these affordable, delicious eats and totally free activ

    If you needed a reason to visit the Night Safari, then here's one – the park has just welcomed four new Tasmanian Devils, a first in Singapore.  Visit these iconic predators from Australia at the public exhibit at the end of Night Safari's Wallaby Trail. According to Mandai Wildlife Group, the four female Devils are around three years old and adorably named Crumpet, Snickers, Jesse, and Panini. Tasmanian Devils are carnivorous marsupials known for the distinctive screams and screeches they make during fights and when feeding. In the wild, they live in dry shrublands and eat prey as large as wombats and sheep.  Their new home at Wallaby Trail mimics the Devils' native habitat as much as possible, consisting of two climate-controlled indoor exhibits, two large outdoor habitats, and more indoor dens and outdoor yards that are out of the public eye. Rock and water features as well as Australian trees – such as Eucalyptus – and shrubs – like the Red Flowered Silky Oak – have been added to help the Devils feel more at home. Photograph: Mandai Wildlife Group These Tasmanian Devils have got personality too. According to Razak Jaffar, Assistant Curator for marsupials, Mandai Wildlife Group, Crumpet's a confident one who likes to explore her surroundings, while timid Snickers tends to hide away in her nest box when intimidated. Meanwhile, Jesse and Panini have overcome their squabbles and become inseparable.  The Tasmanian Devils are not mere novel additions to the Night Safari.

Woodlands is often thought of as the gateway to Malaysia, but this northern town is definitely worth more than a drive-through. That's what the newly launched Woodlands Heritage Trail is here to prove.  Curated by the National Heritage Board, this new trail features 15 heritage sites and eight heritage trail markers. They organise into three thematic routes: Communities of Woodlands, Woodlands at War, and A Journey through the Woods, each introducing trail-goers to a distinct facet of Woodlands' rich cultural and natural heritage.  The Woodlands Heritage Trail comes with a handy companion guide and map, both of which you can download at NHB's heritage portal Roots.gov.sg. These are a must-have – the companion guide comes with engaging history about each of the sites, accompanied by stories and anecdotes from Singaporeans who have intimate ties to Woodlands. Meanwhile, the map does all the planning for you with suggested routes, travel times, alongside nuggets of information.  Here are some highlights from the Woodlands Heritage Trail.  Former Malaysian Base Jetty  Photograph: Cheryl Sekkappan Today, many visit this jetty for a leisurely walk to enjoy the sea breeze and an uncommonly close look at Johor Bahru on the opposite shore. But in the past, this was the former Malaysian Base jetty – evidence of which you can see at the anchor points along the promenade, and even in the water when the tide is low. Follow the Woodlands at War route to learn more about the north's milit

Watch out – a T. rex is stomping through town this October, razor sharp teeth and all. That's Shen the T. rex for you, a 12.2 metre-long skeleton that's heading for auction at Christie's Hong Kong Autumn Auction Week.  But first, it's making a pit stop in Singapore for three whole days of public display. With pre-registration, you can view the skeleton for free at the Victoria Theatre & Concert Hall from October 28 to 30.  After that, Shen T. Rex will be sent to Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, where it will highlight the 20th/21st Century Art Evening Sale during Christie's Hong Kong Autumn Auction Week.  Photograph: Marcus Müller-Witte, M.A It's a historic moment, marking the first time a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton is offered at auction in Asia. First unearthed in McCone County, Montana, USA, it is considered a rare and scientifically important specimen and has been researched by leading palaeontologists from global institutions. It is expected to fetch US$15 million to $25 million at the auction.  For us in Singapore, it's a unique opportunity to view this prehistoric apex predator up close. As one of the most ferocious hunters to have ever roamed the earth, the T. rex has captured imaginations for decades. And this particular specimen, dynamically posed as though in the midst of pursuing prey, will be sure to bring all your Jurassic Park fantasies to life.  To view Shen the T. rex at Victoria Theatre & Concert Hal, pre-register your visit at christies.com/sgt

Stargazers, a total lunar eclipse – also known as a blood moon – is happening on November 8, and there's a chance that you can see the celestial event in Singapore. According to a Facebook post by the Science Centre Observatory (SCO), the eclipse will begin at 4.02pm, reach full eclipse at 6.16pm, and remain at that stage until 7.41pm. During the phase, the moon "will likely be red in colour due to the eclipse and our atmospheric conditions," says the SCO. However, viewing the phenomenon might "challenging" as the moon will only rise at 6.46pm on the day. Not only will the rising moon appear dark at that time, it may also be too low in the sky at the time of total eclipse. According to SCO, it will only reach an "appreciable altitude" at 9pm.  But don't fret. The SCO will not be holding a viewing event, but you can still take your chances by heading somewhere with a clear view of the eastern horizon. Be there from 7pm onwards, and choose a spot with no building or trees in the way – all the better if your position is elevated. You can view the blood moon with your naked eye, though a pair of binoculars will enhance the experience. The last total lunar eclipse was on May 26 this year. It was a particularly special one called the 'super flower blood moon', where a total lunar eclipse coincided with the supermoon phase, a time when the moon is at its closest point to the Earth. And why a "flower" moon? That's a name that references the abundance of wildflowers that bloom in May.

There will now be seven long public holiday weekends in 2023, up from six, following a revision to the date for Vesak Day. The Ministry of Manpower announced yesterday that Vesak Day will now fall on June 2, Friday, following an announcement by the Singapore Buddhist Federation (SBF) about the revised date. Originally, Vesak Day was on June 3, a Saturday.  For those of us on a five-day work week, there really isn't much difference – we would have gotten a day off in lieu (or salary in lieu) on June 2 anyway, as is required under the Employment Act. But the way we see it, there's no harm being happy about the fact that the Vesak Day long weekend is now official.  And it sounds to us like the universe is telling us one thing – and that's to take a break and travel. Before you book your leave dates, head over here for the updated list of public holidays in Singapore in 2023. Need some inspiration? Whether it's a short day trip from Singapore, a weekend beach getaway, or somewhere off the beaten path, we've got you covered.  READ MORE Changi Airport implements higher airport fees on travellers starting November 1 Jackson Wang returns to Singapore this December for 'Magic Man' tour World's 50 Best Bars: Check out the Singaporean bars that made the list