Cheryl Sekkappan

Don't be fooled by the looks of Pilates. The workout may consist of low-impact exercises that don't require treadmills and kettlebells but it is undeniably tough (thanks, Joseph Pilates). Each exercise is designed to lengthen your muscles, tone your frame, and stretch every inch of your body, so expect your legs to shake and your abs to quiver at every twist and turn. All about control, this popular HIIT alternative also helps improve your metabolism, balance, and posture. And what better way to get started than these studios in Singapore that offer classical, mat and reformer Pilates classes, bringing you one step closer to becoming a lean, mean, fighting machine – sort of. RECOMMENDED: The best yoga studios in Singapore and the best gyms in Singapore

Get ready for a boozy week ahead as renowned bars on our sunny island join the Singapore Cocktail Takeover, and the highly anticipated Sake Matsuri kicks off with a weekend of free-flow sake tasting. Foodies can enjoy unique dining experiences that take you across the globe with just a bite, while music enthusiasts can hit up a newly-opened music facility at Esplanade, or jam out at a massive music festival happening at CQ @ Clarke Quay. Read on to discover all the best things happening in Singapore this week. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore after dark and The best art exhibitions in Singapore    

The weekend has come once again, and it’s time to take a well-deserved break after a hectic work week – starting with some of these events across Singapore. Whether it’s sipping on a bespoke cocktail at one of our city’s best bars or admiring flora and fauna at Gardens by the Bay, there’s something for everyone. Scroll down to check out the best events happening this weekend. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore this May and The best outdoor playgrounds in Singapore

May is nothing short of a-may-zing. It kicks off with Labour Day, bringing a blessed mid-week breather. There there's Mother’s Day on May 12, where we celebrate the queens in our lives.That’s not all – there are plenty more dates to save too. Festivals such as Singapore HeritageFest, i Light Singapore, SIFA, and European Film Festival are all making a comeback this month, and each promises to be even bigger than the last. Other may-jor events to fill up your calendar include an exhibition centred on iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, a mesmerising Northern Lights display at Gardens by the Bay, and concerts by the likes of Niall Horan and Elijah Woods. With so much to see and do, you’re in for one sweet, sweet month. RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and the best events to look forward in 2023

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 restaurants and cafés in Singapore and The best halal cake shops in Singapore

When it comes to Japanese bread, there’s something that strikes a distinct chord – it’s sweeter, softer, and leaves us craving more. It could be the attention to detail with intricately layered cream rolls or even unique fillings like red bean or matcha. As much as we enjoy picking up a fresh loaf of bread at Singapore’s best bakeries or devouring the best sandwiches to try, these seven Japanese bakeries have left their well-deserved mark on Singapore’s food scene. RECOMMENDED: The best Japanese restaurants in Singapore and The best cake shops in Singapore

There’s nothing like taking a pause from the daily grind to spend some time with the family. Especially if you've been working from home, both you and the kids may need a change in environment. From farm visits to skydiving, Singapore has a myriad of things you can do with your toddlers, tykes and teens. And why not complete it with a stay at some of the city’s best fam-friendly hotels and resorts? We pick up some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Singapore. With interconnecting rooms, themed lodgings, cool toys and fun activities for the little ones, it'll make for great bonding time for the whole family.  RECOMMENDED: The best kid-friendly activities in Singapore and the best free activities for kids

We get it, you've scoured hundreds of lists similar to this one, and yet the perfect present is nowhere in sight. Don't worry, the search is over – whether your partner's a coffee enthusiast or a fitness nut, we've curated a list of gifts that will surely put a smile on his face. As an added bonus, we've also included date ideas that work well as an alternative, or if you wanted splurge on your man and lavish him with both a physical gift and an unforgettable experience. RECOMMENDED: The best Valentine's Day gifts for her and The most romantic restaurants in Singapore

Now that we're back in the office, it's back to 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 restaurants catered to every budget – excluding taxes. Here's where you can get the best business lunch sets in the CBD for your next work thing. RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore and the best happy hour deals in the city

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

It's no surprise that Singapore is a shopping paradise with a plethora of malls, multi-concept stores and independent labels in every nook and cranny. But if you prefer rifling through pre-loved gems and scoring statement pieces at affordable prices, then thrift your weekend away at these secondhand shops. RECOMMENDED: Six cool indie stores in Singapore and 10 places to shop on a budget in Singapore  

We're a nation that loves to snack, so it's no surprise that we have some of the most unique (and delicious) selection of local snacks you can find. With flavours like kaya, curry, mala and laksa, there's really no boundaries when it comes to what we munch and crunch on. Is your mouth getting itchy for something to bite on? We put together some local snack makers that are creating interesting and innovative snacks in Singapore. Let's munch away. RECOMMENDED: Old-school childhood snacks we love in Singapore and the best traditional bakeries and cake shops in Singapore

Lazarus Island is undoubtedly one of Singapore's most beautiful islands, and is rightfully beloved for its laidback, rustic charm and idyllic shores. The island has seen some development in recent times, with the addition of Tiny Away Escape @ Lazarus Island cabins, a convenience store called Sol by BDC, and the water sports centre Camelot. The latest addition? Into The Woods, a new glamping experience laying claim to Lazarus Island's most beautiful beach.  Founded in 2022 by Ray and Sam, who were inspired by camping trips they had enjoyed overseas with their young children, Into The Woods is all about "experiencing a life unhurried". The idea is to book one of three family tents (sleeps four) or six couple tents (sleeps two), where you can slow down, disconnect from the bustle of city life, and immerse in nature.  What is it like living at Into The Woods? Where the 'glam' part of the vacation comes into play is in these rooms. On a one-night stay with Into The Woods, we checked into a family tent and found a whole lot to love. It's spacious and fully air-conditioned, with a king bed and a sofa bed to accommodate a family of four. Full-length glass sliding doors offers views of the beach – the glass is tinted so you can look out at the waves from the inside while staying shielded from anyone outside who might be looking in (in any case, there are curtains that you can draw for extra privacy). The room has a snack bar stocked with cereals, biscuits, coffee, and tea, a small f

Grounded is a riveting story of an ace Air Force fighter pilot, whose career in the sky is brought to an abrupt end by an unexpected pregnancy. Recommissioned to the Nevada desert to pilot military drones, she remains physically safe away from the action during combat shifts – but struggles with the disorienting clockwork of motherly duties blended with the psychological toll of war. Based on an award-winning script by George Brant and featuring actress Oon Shu An, Singapore Theatre Company’s Grounded is an empathetic study of both the personal and geopolitical costs of modern warfare.  Oon Shu An’s stellar performance as the protagonist kept us on the edge of our seats for the full 90 minutes, commanding the stage with an unwavering intensity. The script for Grounded is a demanding one, as the pilot slowly descends into madness as the line between her work and personal life begins to blur, a challenge that Oon navigates flawlessly. Despite the character’s disturbing joy in bombing “the guilty”, we found ourselves rooting for her, glad that she found some semblance of happiness in the “chair-force” – a job that she initially despised. The themes of Grounded resonate deeply in today’s context, where one side remains shielded from the threat of death while callously imposing a relentless demise upon others. Grab some friends and book the Watch With Friends package (minimum of four tickets) to enjoy 15 percent off. Interested in a theatre marathon? Grounded is also part of The S

After more than 50 years of parades, Chingay continues to keep things interesting. This year, it's setting out to dazzle with a large-scale floor projection on the F1 track, featuring a lush Chingay garden to fit 2024's theme of 'Blossom'. Look forward to an array of floral motifs throughout six acts to tell the story of Singapore's thriving culture and community.  The whole parade promises to be a visual treat. The floor projection, a first for the parade and the longest yet seen in Singapore, will transform the track at the F1 Pit Building into a massive moving canvas. The parade will open with a majestic dragon flying throughout the F1 track, followed by anamorphic illusions of buildings, flowers, and spaceships. Listen out for the Chingay Gardener (George Chan) and the Flower Fairy (Tan Rui Shan) as they narrate the story of 'Blossom', told through vibrant performances incorporating dragon and lion dances, inline skating, cheerleading, wushu, and pieces by international groups from Uzbekistan, China, Indonesia, and more.  Of course, an indelible part of the Chingay parade is the vibrant floats. This year, five main floats will grace the parade. Presented by groups like Tote Board Group, POSB, and Harmony Circle, they pay tribute to the youth, the elderly, our four major ethnic groups, and more active communities in Singapore. There's no missing the pomp and pageantry in the heartlands either – a float caravan will be parading through residential estates at the Chingay@Hea

Talk about a stunner. The 5-star Artyzen Singapore on Cuscaden Road is Artyzen Hospitality Group's debut in Singapore, and it's a maximalist dream. In a departure from brands that seek to provide a consistent experience across global properties (not a knock, that has its own charm), Artyzen Singapore grounds itself in local history and culture – providing a vibrant stay with a wonderful sense of place.  One fascinating tidbit about Artyzen Singapore is that it's built on prime estate formerly occupied by Villa Marie. It was a 1940s era mansion built by Tan Hoon Siang, a keen horticulturalist and relation of philanthropist Tan Tock Seng. His love of plants, and particular interest in orchids, has been woven into the fabric of Artyzen Singapore. You see it in the bold floral motifs stamped throughout the hotel lobby, in the arched trellises that drip with plants and gems alike, and in the green and tranquil sky gardens across the floors.  The hotel has 148 impressive rooms spanning four categories: Deluxe, Premier, Grand Terrace Room, and Terrace Suite. It's worth noting that all have balconies and soaring ceilings (at least four metres high), which give them a sense of spaciousness and grandeur. The Straits-inspired art we get a peep of in the lift (colourful artwork by Terence Tan that depict Peranakan shophouses) finds its way into these rooms, in the scenic wallpaper and Peranakan-tile motifs.  Our room for two nights is the Terrace Suite, and it's jaw-dropping to say the

A gorgeous new hotel has opened on 21 Carpenter Street and it's designed by none other than the award-winning architects WOHA. Built in a restored and redesigned former remittance house, the boutique beauty weaves heritage stories and elements seamlessly with urban design sensibilities. Called 21 Carpenter, the hotel takes up the existing Depression-era shophouse, once known as the prominent remittance house Chye Hua Seng Wee Kee. Founded in 1936 by local philanthropist Mr Lee Wee Nam, it was where Singapore's earliest immigrants came to send money back home. These transfers were often accompanied by poetic letters written for them by skilled writers in Chinatown – pieces of this history can be found in the phrases, plucked from archived letters and records, cut into the aluminium facade of 21 Carpenter's contemporary extension.   21 Carpenter has 48 rooms that are split into the Heritage Wing (26 rooms) over the first four floors and the Urban Wing (22 rooms) over the top five floors. Thoughtful touches elevate every room: custom-made furniture lends graceful form and function, and WOHA calligraphic artworks adorn the room walls in a nod to the remittance letters of Singapore's earliest immigrants. In the heritage rooms, sturdy Chengal timber boards from the 1930s have been lovingly restored and used for flooring in a nod to the shophouse's heritage.    For the ultimate luxury, stay in the Heritage Two Bedroom Suite (which spans a whopping 55 square metres) or Heritage Bal

Take your dining, drinking, and partying to new heights at HighHouse, a new day-to-night venue opening to the public on December 15. It takes over levels 61 and 62 at One Raffles Place where 1-Altitude used to be, serving up stunning skyline views, a sophisticated food and cocktail menu, and a rotating roster of live music and DJs. HighHouse has been carefully designed to take your breath away. Level 61 opens into a grand space marked by a double-storey bar, which faces an immense digital screen featuring immersive artworks to complement the music selection of the night. Plush booths and dining tables line the floor-to-ceiling windows, which look out onto unparalleled views of Marina Bay and the Padang. HighHouse also has more intimate spots, including a karaoke room that guests can book for a private tête-à-tête.  Tuck into fusion fare by executive chef Sam Chin, who's worked alongside big names like Lauren Peugeot and Chen Kentaro, both chefs of Michelin-starred restaurants. There's a wide selection of raw and cured dishes, meat and seafood sharing plates, and steaks for the beef lovers. Highlights include hand-cut beef tartare ($42) cut through with wasabi stems and topped with a delicate quail yolk, grilled Spanish octopus ($38) on a bed of smoked chickpea purée, and Sakura pork belly massaman curry ($32) with sticky coconut rice.  Over at the bar, find a fine selection of cocktails curated by award-winning bar specialist Jay Gray. Traverse the Pacific Coast through dri

There's no doubt about it – analogue is making a comeback. The generation raised on digital technologies need a break from being constantly 'on', and relish the slow pace and rhythms found in using film cameras, record players, and other analogue mediums. When it comes to vinyls, collectors love it for its warm, crackling sound and funky album artwork. That's not to mention the huge appeal of sniffing out and tracking down rare and limited edition records.  Nevertheless, investing in a vinyl set-up and starting a record collection is expensive business. Enter Slow Boat, Singapore's very first vinyl listening café. Started by brother-sister duo Kathy and Kevin, it's not just a cosy place to wind down with a cuppa, it is also a space to dip your toes into the world of vinyl before throwing yourself fully into the hobby.  Slow Boat is housed in a second-floor shophouse space on Craig Road. Walk up the narrow flight of stairs to find a small 'lobby' area that opens to Fotomat on the left and Slow Boat on the right. Slow Boat itself is furnished with plush two-seater couches, each with a single turntable and two pairs of headphones. There's a separate section with a wall of glass windows – it's a gorgeous light-filled space conducive to daydreaming as you immerse in some vinyl tunes.  $30 gets you a free drink and one hour of listening time. The store has more than 500 records from all over the world available. There's no particular curation here – Kevin and Kathy look for the cl

Step into Santa’s toy factory at the fifth edition of The Christmas Atelier. The Atelier and Co.’s 7,000-square-foot space has been transformed into a wintry wonderland filled with sweets, treats, and lots of shopping. More than 40 brands will be setting up shop from December 1 to 3 – buy festive blooms from The Floral Atelier, customise leather goods with Bynd Artisan, or get stylish fits for your kids at Maison Q. New brands have also joined the line-up, including Sigi Skin, Lingwu, and Cheeselads.

Here’s a reason to cross over to the Island of Fun this festive season. Resorts World Sentosa is launching Superstar Christmas, which will see multiple attractions lighting up with festive offerings. The pièce de resistance is a majestic 10-metre-high Christmas Tree of Wonders, which will light up in a show called Superstar Spectacular beginning on December 1 (5.30pm, 7pm, and 8.30pm).  From December 16 to January 3, RWS will also be hosting a series of performances headlined by former Girls’ Generation member Jessica Jung. Other acts include Mandopop star William So, Australia’s all-male dance group Thunder from Down Under, and Thai artists 4Eve, Potato, PP Krit and Billkin during the inaugural 555 Thai Music Festival. And if you can’t beat the heat with snow, you can still cool off at Adventure Cove Waterpark where there’ll be a wet and wild rave featuring live DJs performances between December 16 to 31.

It’s an understatement to say that we live in tumultuous times. From climate change to geopolitical tensions, the challenges that we face are complex, disheartening, and some would say, hopeless. Well, Southeast Asia’s premier animation festival is back to address these difficult topics – all with a dose of fun and hope.  Happening on November 25, Cartoons Underground will be screening a total of 15 animated films whittled down from more than 1,500 animators from over 100 countries. While animated films are often associated with feel-good narratives, this year’s film selection tackles topics like poverty, the climate crisis, the mental health emergency faced by those living in war, and the rise of artificial intelligence.  “Animation is a brilliant way into difficult issues,” says festival co-founder, Vicky Chen. “It makes the scary feel safer and gives us the distance we need to reflect on the things that worry us without them overwhelming us.” Highlights include Pig, which examines our abuse of the planet’s resources told through the story of a group of animals that depend on a single sleeping pig to power the grid; The Square City, which brings us into the cramped living conditions in a Hong Kong neighbourhood; and Two Gracious Uncles Smooched to the Beat, which takes a look at how AI and capitalism impact art and creativity. Catch other local gems such as Cloudy, by the talented students at Nanyang Technological University; and admire the artistry in flicks like Braided,

You'll no longer have to travel all the way to Japan to pick up your favourite Nintendo merchandise. The first Nintendo pop-up store in Southeast Asia is opening at Jewel Changi Airport, bringing with it toys and merchandise from popular games like Super Mario, Animal Crossing, and The Legend of Zelda.  Happening from November 17 to January 1, the pop-up store is bringing a solid line of toys, apparel, and lifestyle goods that you'd previously only be able to get from Nintendo Tokyo, Nintendo Kyoto, and Nintendo Shop stores. Teaser pictures show Mario-themed tableware, Legend of Zelda apparel and prints, Pikmin vases and stationery, Animal Crossing figurines laptop sleeves. That's not the end of it – Nintendo will be revealing more original merchandise items closer to the pop-up date.  What's more, there'll be six exclusively designed postcards available at the pop-up store. Spend $80 or more in a single transaction to receive one of the limited-edition cards. If you have a Nintendo account, remember to check in at the venue too, in order to get one of 18 adorable Nintendo sticker designs.  The Nintendo pop-up store will be at #04-220 and 221, Jewel Changi Airport. Watch this space for the full line-up of merchandise you can shop for. 

Bring your family and friends for a wholesome outdoor movie screening at BBC Earth Screening Festival. The event is launching the third and final season of the awe-inspiring Planet Earth series, Planet Earth III.  The Planet Earth series has brought us iconic scenes: from the thrilling face off between a snake and iguana to that of a young ibex scaling a sheer rock face in an incredible feat of athleticism. Narrated by the legendary Sir David Attenborough, this latest instalment promises more of such jaw-dropping visuals of animals and habitats around the world. And from what we hear, Planet Earth III has higher stakes and bigger drama as species fight to survive amidst a rapidly-changing environment (hello, climate change). Such a inspiring species deserves a setting to match. At BBC Earth Screening Festival, you'll get to preview the very first episode under the luminous Supertrees at Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay. There will be events just for kids too, like a painting session with illustrator Sam Lo and a meet-and-greet session with Bluey and Bingo mascots. Admission to the event is free and comes with an exclusive BBC Earth tote bag giveaway too.    

You've heard the splashy good news – South Korea's famous summer festival, Waterbomb Festival, will be staged in Singapore on August 24 and 25. And to amp up the excitement, it has just released the first wave of artists performing at the epic event. A slew of K-pop singers, rappers, and performance crews will be descending on Siloso Beach at Sentosa for Waterbomb Singapore 2024. There's BamBam, a Thai rapper and singer who rose to fame with the South Korean boy group GOT7; Bibi, a South Korean singer, rapper and songwriter who gained recognition through the reality show The Fan; Kwon Eunbi, who rose to viral fame through Waterbomb Festival in Seoul; Sandara Park, who needs no introduction as part of legendary girl group 2NE1; and VIVIZ, a South Korean girl group consisting of former members from GFriend.  Other acts joining Waterbomb Singapore include Korean hip-hop rapper Kid Milli, viral South Korean dance crew Team Bebe, and Thai singer Sorn, alongside local talents like R&B singer lullaboy, rapper ALYPH, and singer-songwriter Haven.  More exciting acts will be announced, so do look out for more announcements on Waterbomb Singapore's website, Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. But if this initial line-up is enough to get you hyped, then stay sharp for the standard ticket sale starting on May 10. For local and regional UOB cardholders, a special pre-sale will start on May 9 – check out UOB's Waterbomb Singapore website for details on eligible cards. All tickets will be so

The Northern Lights have captured imaginations for aeons. Typically, you’d have to travel to countries like Iceland, Sweden, Finland, Norway or Canada to catch the awe-inspiring natural phenomena. But soon, you’ll be able to experience something close to it right here in Singapore. From May 4 onwards, the Borealis outdoor installation will light up the Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay. It’s the work of Switzerland-based artist Dan Acher, who has ingeniously layered light beams and cloud particles to create a mesmerising dance of light and colour reminiscent of the aurora borealis. Just as the Northern Lights are never the same, the Borealis display is ever-changing depending on wind, temperature, and humidity. The installation will be accompanied by an atmospheric score by French composer Guillaume Desbois – set against the surreal backdrop of glowing Supertrees, it’s not hard to imagine how out-of-this-world the installation will be. This is the first time that Borealis is showing in Singapore. Previously, it was in 40 cities across Asia, Australia, Europe, and the US – see it lighting up other landmarks worldwide here. Borealis kicks off with a preview on May 4 at 7.30pm, where artist Dan Acher will share his inspiration behind the installation. Sweet treats will also be available from 6.30pm. From May 5 onwards, Borealis will illuminate every Monday (8pm to 8.30pm) and every Saturday and Sunday (9pm to 9.30pm). Admission is free – find out more here. READ MORE i Light

If you've been missing the stacked New York-style sandwiches and fluffy brioche doughnuts from Korio, then you have reason to rejoice. The popular shop is making a comeback via a pop-up with Zouk Group this May, the first after it shuttered its Far East Square store in December last year. For the pop-up, Korio will take over Zouk Group's Hello Kitty Kitty speakeasy space at Clarke Quay. The limited-time menu has all that Korio does best – hot sandwiches and sweet treats – with globe-trotting flavour profiles crafted in collaboration with Zouk Group's new chief culinary officer, chef Lorenz Hoja. German-born chef Lorenz largely trained under French master Joël Robuchon in London and Paris, eventually taking over as the executive chef at L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Singapore, where he earned the restaurant two Michelin stars in 2016 and 2017. Photograph: Zouk Group The concise menu has four sections, each consisting of two menu items. Under Starters, you'll find sandwiches like Nordic Craze ($17), a rich salmon confit sandwich with  quail egg, créme cheese, ikura, and marinated onions; and The Italian Job ($17), a focaccia sandwich bursting with burrata, zucchini, parmesan, tomato confit, and arugula.  Heftier options are in the Filler section, which include the Get Shorty ($25), a bagel sandwich with juicy braised beef short rib, roasted onions, and provolone, cut through with horseradish cream and pickled cucumber. The Jon Bánh Jo Mi ($25) has barramundi nuggets, pickled

Rail Corridor trekkers and Buona Vista residents now have a new recreational and community space to check out. The Buona Vista community node launched on April 22 in the southern section of the Rail Corridor, offering fitness spaces, a children's playground, and vibrant street art across 1.6 hectares.  Photograph: NParks The Buona Vista node is the first to be planted with vegetated swales, which are marshy depressions that call to mind the original stream and marshy landscape of the Rail Corridor. According to NParks, this design feature will provide new habitats for dragonflies and other flora and fauna to thrive. Photograph: NParks Another highlight is the children's playground, the first along the Rail Corridor. Children can play across a varied landscape featuring slides, small hills, tunnels, and log steps, while enjoying various textures inspired by nature. There's something for seniors too, namely a fitness corner with equipment like stationery bikes and ellipticals.  Photograph: NParks Boosting the vibrancy of the node is the colourful street art space under Commonwealth Avenue viaduct, an initiative done in collaboration with local artists. A plug-and-play space under the North Buona Vista Link viaduct is available for a variety of activities, from high-intensity internal training on the anti-skid painted surface or for community bonding events. A 500 square metre community lawn can similarly be used for outdoor events that feel closer to nature.  Photograph:

2024 is shaping up to be a spectacular year of meteor showers and full supermoons. Kicking things off is the Lyrids meteor shower, which has been streaking through the skies since April 16 and is expected to peak on the night between April 22 and 23. Avid stargazers or curious onlookers in Singapore have a chance to witness this beautiful celestial event – here's how.  What is the Lyrids meteor shower? The Lyrids meteor shower is one of the oldest known meteor showers, with its first recorded sight dating back to 687 BC by the Chinese. Named after the constellation Lyra, the Lyrids are known for its fast and bright meteors which appear as bright flashes – called fireballs – in the sky. According to NASA, heavy showers can produce up to 100 meteors per hour. Typically though, you can expect 10 to 20 meteors per hour during the Lyrids' peak.  When to catch the Lyrids meteor shower? The Lyrids are set to peak tonight, lasting well into the morning of April 23. This is your best chance to catch sight of the meteors in Singapore.  Where can I watch it in Singapore? Find somewhere with a wide, unblocked view of the north-western sky. Earthsky advises skygazers to stay away from anywhere with bright city lights – in Singapore, your best best would be parks, beaches, and reservoirs. We're close to the full moon on April 24, so the extra brightness of the moon will make it harder to view the meteor shower. Lay under trees or in a place with structures that block the moon for a better

Get ready to be transported to another realm, because cult-favourite London label Anjunadeep is bringing its event series to Zouk Singapore on April 20. This marks the label’s debut in Asia, which will also see it in Zouk Genting on April 19. Anjunadeep needs no introduction. Founded by electronic dance music trio Above & Beyond and their manager James Grant, the independent record label has backed some of the most exciting names in electronic dance music – Lane 8, Yotto, and Dusky – and released numerous albums and remixes for the likes of Eli & Fur, Moon Boots, and Tale of Us. Anjunadeep has massive pulling power too, selling out venues like London’s now defunct Printworks, and most recently, Red Rocks Amphitheatre in 2023.  At its Zouk Singapore debut, look forward to a transportive night of soulful sound headlined by three international acts from Anjunadeep’s roster. There’s CRi, the self-taught college-dropout-turned musician from Quebec known for his infectious indie-electronic jams; Lutrell, a San Francisco native with wicked house and techno beats buoyed by indie sensibilities; and IPeiqi from China, repping Asia with deeply moving melodic house, techno, and drum n bass.  If you’re an Anjunadeep loyalist, you might want to make the trip to Zouk Genting on April 19 too, to catch CRi (CAN) and IPeiqi (CHI) again, this time alongside Canadian music producer Simon Doty. Wherever you catch the show, it promises to be a magical night. General admission tickets to Anjunadee

There are three more long weekends this year, which is your cue to start planning a refreshing getaway from the city. And if you’re not yet playing the miles game, let us tell you that there’s nothing more satisfying than redeeming a free flight or upgrade. That’s where the UOB Lady’s Card comes in. One of the first lady’s cards in Southeast Asia, it’s now in its 35th year. To celebrate, UOB has relaunched the card with a fresh new design, new benefits, and exclusive regional deals – perfect for the shopaholic travellers among us. Earn up to 10 miles per dollar The new UOB Lady’s card has an attractively high earn rate. At baseline, you can earn up to 10x UNI$ (that’s about four miles per dollar) for every five dollars spent in your chosen rewards category, no minimum spend required. Categories include fashion, dining, travel, beauty, and more, and you’re free to change up your preferred category every quarter. Outside your rewards category, you still get UNI$1 for every five bucks spent. Here’s where things get supercharged. You can earn up to 25X UNI$ for every five dollars spent if you’re a UOB Lady’s Card holder and have a UOB Lady’s Savings Account – that’s equivalent to 10 miles per dollar. Basically, UOB rewards you with bonus UNI$ based on the monthly average balance in your savings account. You just need at least $10,000 saved, with more UNI$ bonus awarded the more you park in the account (see table below).  Photograph: UOB It's not just about the miles There are o

In the early morning of April 9, Singapore time, a total solar eclipse will sweep across large swathes of North and Central America in a rare celestial event. The last time a total solar eclipse hit the continent was in 2017, with 12 million people living in the path of totality. But scientists, skywatchers, and eclipse chasers are particularly excited about this year's event as it will travel along a wider and more populated path, over states like Texas and New York. NASA estimates that almost three times more people live in the path of totality this year compared with 2017.  Those in Singapore will not be able to view the total solar eclipse. Thankfully, there are online avenues to catch the event in real time – you'll just have to sacrifice some sleep. Or you can start planning for 2026's solar eclipse, which will pass over popular European destinations like Iceland and Spain.  In the meantime, here's everything you need to know about tonight's total solar eclipse.    What is a solar eclipse? A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth. There are two types of solar eclipses: the annular solar eclipse, where the moon obscures all but the outer ring of the sun; and the total solar eclipse, where the moon obscures the entire face of the sun. Lucky us, the solar eclipse this April is total – a much rarer phenomenon.  When the moon obscures the sun, it creates a shadow that moves across Earth known as "the path of totality". Within the path of totalit

Travellers from Singapore can now enjoy a direct flight to Vancouver on Air Canada. Today, the airline inaugurated its first nonstop flight between Singapore and Vancouver – currently also the only direct route between the two cities.  The city in western Canada is one of the most liveable cities in the world and great for tourists to visit too, considering its beautiful parks, lively beaches, and lush temperate rainforests. The greatest hurdle for Singaporeans wanting to visit was travelling to Vancouver, which meant enduring a flight of 18 hours or longer with a stopover in cities like San Francisco, Hong Kong, or Narita, depending on the airline of choice. But Air Canada's new Singapore-Vancouver route will take just 14 hours and 40 minutes. That's at least 4 hours off your travel time, which we think is pretty neat. It also means that travellers from Vancouver will now have much easier access to Southeast Asia via Singapore's air hub. Vice versa, Singaporeans can unlock destinations in the rest of North America, such as Chicago and Washington, via Vancouver International Airport.   To enjoy such convenience, you'll have to fork out a respectable $1199 and up for economy class. Prices for premium economy class and Air Canada Signature Class start from $3096 and $6430 respectively. Prices will vary based on demand, so do check out the ticket prices and schedules on the website here.  And if you're already planning your trip to Canada, then we've got a handy list of all the

If you've ever had doubts that music is for everyone, a visit to Swee Lee Clarke Quay should put those to rest. The homegrown music retailer's new experience store has what you'd expect – retail offerings spanning guitars, audio equipment, and vinyl records – but also many opportunities for avid musicians and casual music lovers alike to immerse in music, meet established and emerging artists, and connect with fellow enthusiasts over a coffee or cocktail.  Swee Lee is a true-blue Singaporean brand, founded and headquartered in Singapore since 1946. Since then, it has expanded to three locations in Singapore and eight locations in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Swee Lee has also been changing the face of the music retail landscape here, first with its flagship Star Vista outlet, a 464 square meter space that includes a music academy and café.  Swee Lee Clarke Quay is the next step in its evolution from a music retail store to a music experience brand. Located in a former warehouse in Clarke Quay (which, fittingly, has a long history of live music offerings) features an artist lounge, creator corner, vinyl listening stations, and a café and bar. There's also The Great Hall, a versatile space that can accommodate open mic nights, live DJ performances, private dinners, and more. Here's more of what you can expect at Swee Lee Clarke Quay.  Retail offerings and creative opportunities for musicians Photograph: Swee Lee Musical retail is at the heart of Swee Lee. At the Clarke Q

Travelling to Hong Kong just got a lot more affordable. Greater Bay Airlines, a Hong Kong-based low-cost carrier, is launching Singapore-Hong Kong flights with prices starting at just $82 for a one-way ticket. If you haven't heard of Greater Bay Airlines, it's a fairly new airline founded by Chinese investor Bill Wong Cho Bau who also owns Shenzhen-based Donghai Airlines. Greater Bay Airlines took its inaugural flight in July 2022 and currently serves seven destinations from Hong Kong with a fleet of seven Boeing 737-800 aircraft. These destinations include Osaka, Manila, and Seoul. The Singapore-Hong Kong direct route is expected to launch on April 26. There are three ticket tiers to choose from: Go Go is the cheapest and includes 7kg of carry-on luggage and no seat selection; Value Go is a comfortable mid-range option that offers 20kg of checked baggage and rebooking at a fee of $100; while Flex Go is the most expensive tier affording 20kg of checked luggage, seat selection, and free rebooking. You can pre-pay $51 for an additional 20kg of checked baggage. Afraid you'll get hungry on the flight? Greater Bay Airlines also offers pre-paid inflight meals from S$10 spanning Hong Kong classics, kids' meals, vegetarian meals, and low-sodium or diabetic-friendly options.  Greater Bay Airlines will operate the new route on a daily fixed schedule. Flights from Hong Kong will depart at 9.45am and arrive in Singapore at 1.45pm, while flights from Singapore will depart at 2.45pm and ar

Singapore is ranked the 30th happiest country in the world and the happiest country in Asia for 2021 to 2023, according to the World Happiness Report 2024. This is also the second time running that we've topped the happiness chart for Asia.  Overall, Finland emerged as the happiest country in the world, followed by Denmark and Iceland. Although Singapore remains top in Asia, our global ranking has dropped five places from 25th happiest in the world last year to 30th happiest in the world this year. In Asia, we're trailed by Taiwan (#31), Japan (#51), South Korea (#52), and the Philippines (#53).  The rankings are based on data from the Gallup World Poll which measures a population's evaluation of their happiness, averaged over three years from 2021 to 2023. Researchers also took into account six key factors to draw an overall picture of a country's happiness, namely GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity, and corruption. We can guess that Singapore fared well on GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, and corruption (or the perceived lack of it), which the editors of the 2024 World Happiness Report confirmed with CNBC. Where we didn't do so well was in "perceived social support, freedom to make life choices, and generosity".  Interestingly, the World Happiness Report 2024 also focused on the happiness of people at different stages of life, coming up with happiness rankings for the young (below 30 years old), lower middle (30-44), upper m