Delfina Utomo

Singapore is a bustling metropolis filled with modern skyscrapers and futuristic architecture à la those in sci-fi films. But beyond its stunning art galleries, world-class restaurants and over-the-top tourist traps, the city is also home to under-the-radar gems and off-the-beaten-track treasures. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and check out Singapore's best-kept secrets, from hidden parks and bars to forgotten spots – some of them hiding in plain sight, right under your nose. RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and where to see the most Instagram-worthy shophouses in Singapore

Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition. Call it a colonial hangover, but it makes for the perfect occasional splurge and a great way to spend the afternoon catching up with old friends. After all, what’s not to love about hitting pause and nibbling on delectable sweets and savouries on a plush, comfortable sofa? Here's where to go to raise your pinkies and clink glasses. RECOMMENDED: The most Instagrammable cafés in Singapore and the best cafés in Singapore for dessert

Had your breakfast this morning? Great, because you’re going to need all that energy to get you through the high-octane activities Singapore has in-store for the toddlers, pre-teens and teens. No matter what your kids are into – be it the arts, science, or sports – keep your pint-sized posse occupied with heaps of physical challenges, cool exhibitions and some edutainment fun. Whatever the time of year, we belive that kids' free time should be used for exploration and the creation of fond family memories. Here are some of the best activities around town to do just that. RECOMMENDED: The best kid-friendly events to check out during the school holidays and the best hiking trails for kids 

While Seletar might be one of Singapore's more undiscovered neighbourhoods, there's still more to the area than just the Airport. It's named after the Orang Seletar, a group of indigenous people who practised a nomadic way of life in the mangrove forests in the area. Seletar was also used for rubber plantations before redevelopment works saw both mangroves and plantations being cleared to set up a military airbase for the British. Today, the former colonial estate retains a rustic vibe and often doesn't feel like you're in Singapore. Explore the wetlands and cycle by the waterside – Seletar is also home to plenty of swanky eateries and cosy cafés. Here's what you can do at this chill 'hood. RECOMMENDED: Check out more neighbourhoods in Singapore

Some folks are capable of heading to bed with an empty stomach, but seeing how you stumbled upon this article, you probably aren't one of them. Good news for us, because living in Singapore means we have no reason to go hungry ever, whether it's 1pm or 1am. If you're searching for places which serve up substantial and delicious grub to cure your late-night hunger pangs, look no further than this list of eateries that open deep into the night. These joints operate well past the usual 9.30pm or 10pm closing times, and some are even open for 24 hours. Whether it's a post OT-meal or a casual weekend supper with friends, saunter down to these joints and you won't walk away hangry.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore after dark and The best free things to do in Singapore at night

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

Despite challenges like uneven terrain, wild animals and unpredictable weather, hiking is a really fun and popular activity in Singapore. But when you add the kids to the mix, it's best to put their safety first. Trust Singapore to think about the kids too and have some of the best kid-friendly trails around for when you want to bring the young ones hiking. Pack some sunscreen, their favourite cap, water bottle and maybe a light snack for when the tantrums kick in mid-hike.  RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails in Singapore and the best secret and hidden parks in Singapore

Sure, home-cooked dinners are great but if you've got an upcoming party for ten and more, leave it to the pros and get some catering pronto. There's no mess, your guests are happy, and you get to enjoy the food in peace. From pretty charcuterie and cheese platters to laksa live stations, here's who to call for your next big bash.  RECOMMENDED: The best communal dining restaurants for big groups and the best buffets in Singapore

The 'buy now, pay later' is not exactly a new concept. Credit card companies have been doing it for the longest time – the only thing is that with credit cards, you usually need to pay a one-time processing fee equivalent to a percentage of your transaction, and then there are all these extra charges ranging from late (and even early) payment or if you cancel the card you used to pay. These days, there are non-bank platforms that allow for more flexibility. All you need is a valid debit or credit card – and to pay your instalments on time. We take a look at the top payment platforms in Singapore and what they offer.  RECOMMENDED: Should I get a credit card in Singapore?

There's a time for dining with big groups and a time for eating on a budget, but when you're planning for an anniversary or a romantic date with your special someone, it's best to take it up a notch with a proper sit-down dinner with all the trimmings. Here are our picks of the best romantically lit, value-for-money restaurants to wine and dine in Singapore. Let's get into the mood for love.  RECOMMENDED: The most romantic bars in Singapore and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try

Singapore's most popular attractions may include a boat-like tower with an infinity pool and two durian-looking domes and other impressive manmade structures but you'll be surprised by the amount of greenery you can find within the city-state (and surrounding offshore islands). The best way to discover this? Hiking.  Put on your best trekking shoes and go on foot to explore these hidden (and not so hidden) trails around the island. But before you get on the best hiking trails in Singapore, it might be best to slap on some sunscreen – and it wouldn't hurt to bring along some mosquito repellent. Run along the scenic Marina Bay waterfront, complete with road closures, at the T100 Triathlon that’s happening this April 2024 – it’s suitable for both race pros and rookies. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's offshore islands and the best secret and hidden parks in Singapore

Besides impressive skyscrapers, the 'city life' and air-conditioned shopping malls, there's also plenty of other things in Singapore to celebrate. We're thinking of something more green, closer to the ground – and sans aircon. While we've got hiking trails, farms and beautiful parks at every corner, there are also hidden pockets of green everywhere – including within the bustling city. If you know where to look, there’s always space to take a breather wherever you may be.  Run along the scenic Marina Bay waterfront, complete with road closures, at the T100 Triathlon that’s happening this April 2024 – it’s suitable for both race pros and rookies. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's offshore islands and the best public parks for kids

Dining at Chu and Co feels like entering someone’s private backyard. Potted plants and random tchotchkes are strewn across the adjacent outdoor patio, guests are happily sitting on the pavement sipping coffee, munching on fresh bakes and in deep conversation.  Orders are made at the counter which has a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Grab a coffee or beverage to go – there's dirty chai and even tepache on the menu if you want something different from your usual latte or cold brew – but the highlight is the warm bakes (both sweet and savoury) that are made fresh daily. If you love surprises, there's always something new when you return. We tried a whole range of sourdough buns – from cauliflower, cheese and pepper to the classic cinnamon buns, and even a black garlic and chocolate piece they were experimenting on – and that $5 to $6 price tag on the buns is well justified. It had a great crust on the outside, fluffy and soft on the outside and versatile to accommodate the most intense of fillings and toppings, like spam and cheese even. If being out in the sun gets too intense, head to the sister concept Chulato (it's on the same stretch) for some creamy scoops of gelato. Or just order another cold brew and head back out to your makeshift picnic spot on the patio – wear sunnies or a hat if you're thinking of dining here. (Chulato is temporarily closed)

They say don't play with your food – but that's exactly what happens in chef Bjorn Shen's gastro-playground Small's. The last time he did a successful run of a pizza omakase, and this time carbs are once again the star of the show. The most recent run at Small's celebrates bread sushi. Confused? Well, it's exactly what it is: sushi but the main carbohydrate here is bread. And such good bread too – using high hydration, long-aged dough that is given different textures and tastes, from different cooking methods like high-temperature baking, low-temperature baking, binchotan grilling, deep-frying and steaming. Creativity comes through in every dish of this multi-course meal (three snacks, up to 10 “bread-sushi”, one hotpot and two sweets). Some highlights include the akami where lean tuna, heart of palm (shoot of young coconut tree) and sambal matah (raw sambal of Balinese origin) is served on bread, the engawa course which is aburi engawa and green papaya strips stewed in lime juice, fish sauce and sugar. The course is served on your palm and then frozen ankimo (monkfish liver) is grated over the top. Bonus points for the hotpot course – Bjorn sometimes hides a "surprise" in someone's bowl. Spoiler: it's a thinly sliced, phallic-shaped daikon.  It's moments like these that makes dining at Small's feel a lot like an informal dinner in a friend's cool apartment. There are Borat posters on the wall, a tapestry of the movie Step Brothers in the corner, and plenty of pop culture ref

If you ever wanted to experience being the main character in a period drama, Isabel is the setting for you. Besides the hand-painted wallpaper, delicate herringbone floors and knotted silk rugs to set the mood, the stunning pink onyx bar counter is the main feature of Maxwell Reserve’s signature bar. It’s easy to feel in the mood for love when you’re seated on a red velvet banquette at dusk.  All the wines, champagnes, spirits and liquors on the menu have been handpicked specially from around the world. Isabel is also known for its selection of cocktails and after-dinner digestifs. Choose from original classics to modern interpretations of drinks. Each drink is handcrafted and designed to complement Isabel’s interiors and ethos. Looking for something besides cocktails and drinking? Isabel also offers afternoon tea sessions (from $89). The tea selection is curated to pair with finger food and snacks that range from sweet to savoury. Tuck into sandwiches, pastries and tarts. Don’t forget to try the freshly baked traditional English scones served with clotted cream and preserves, and finished with an exclusive selection of Beluga caviar and a shot of vodka. 

When it comes to dining experiences, there's nothing quite as intimidating as an omakase experience. From the get-go, you surrender everything to the chef who ultimately hands you each and every course. The whole experience is almost like a ritual – and then you leave. At GOHO, you get the good bits of an omakase experience – an impressive series of dishes that is seasonal and put together with the finest ingredients, but without the formalities that make it so intimidating.  When you first enter GOHO via Rappu, the music is booming – and it's meant to be so, the manager says. Once seated with all the guests, the show begins. I say 'show' because most of the courses are presented with some form of theatrics like the spritzing of edible gold dust, fancy smoke infusions and the dishes sitting in a bed of moss. While some I would have to say can be quite unnecessary (like the spritz of edible glitter in cocktails), the hassun (seasonal platter) presented on miniature garden made out of moss was really a sight to see.  It is hard to fault the ingredients – even throughout the 10-course Ume omakase (that's 15 dishes in total) we embarked on, we never hit a bump. The journey was very well-planned, mixing flavours, textures and temperatures, keeping it interesting and never too heavy despite the indulgence of it all. The word 'goho' itself refers to the five ways of cooking Japanese cuisine that is: nama (cutting), niru (simmering), yaku (grilling), musu (steaming), and ageru (fryin

Update on July 22: The F1 Singapore Grand Prix has dropped its second entertainment lineup for the race weekend. Joining rock band Green Day, boy band Westlife and electronic dance star Marshmello are pop group Black Eyed Peas, rapper-singer The Kid Laroi, R&B act TLC and alternative band Suede.  Black Eyed Peas, known for their hits such as Where Is The Love and Let's Get It Started, will be performing twice during the weekend. They will perform at the Padang Stage on October 1 and the Wharf Stage on October 2. The Kid Laroi will be bringing his enigmatic live show to the Padang Stage on October 2,  while TLC will perform at the Hard Stage on October 2. Suede, known for their classics such as Beautiful Ones, will play at the Wharf Stage on October 1.  Other artistes performing at the F1 event include home-grown acts such as rapper Shigga Shay, Inch, Seinabo Sey and When Chai Met Toast. The Circuit Park will also feature artworks from talented Singaporean artists such as Hafi and 8EyedSpud.  More acts are expected to be announced in the coming weeks so stay tuned.   Photograph: Sam Bloxham/Singapore GP We already know the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix is making a comeback this year – with the first wave of tickets selling out almost instantly – but there's a lot of speculation and anticipation about the entertainment line-up for this year's Grand Prix. The Singapore GP has just confirmed the first three official acts you can look forward to this year: p

Nifty Fifty is a new series where the Time Out Singapore team spends $50 any way they want around town – and we share the experience. Whether it's a secret joint for a boozy night out, a budget (but ace) omakase place or an interesting item we've been eyeing at the shops, we let you in on the cool stores, eateries, places and activities you should be spending at.  There's no science to show that crystals really work, but there's no denying that these fancy rocks are really pretty. So much mysticism (and scepticism) surrounds crystals but hey, if it makes you feel good then why not. After all, I've already made the decision to spend my $50 on things I want, not need so I will need to stock up on crystals that promote courage, creativity, groundedness, positivity, happiness and self-love.  Photograph: Delfina Utomo Verdict: Going to the store itself is a treat. I love the welcoming vibes, the crowd is pretty diverse too – there was a regular customer picking up some amethyst and a kid who was choosing shark teeth (yep, you can get it here) while the parents were intrigued by the quartz clusters. The lady who runs the store and hands out the baskets for you to go pick and mix with is constantly walking around the store and helping out anyone with questions. Sometimes I get her to analyse my picks and she'll tell you what you need instead or what to add – she'll sneak in some freebies if you're a regular. Afterwards, the crystals will be packed neatly and then cleansed in the

The official export ban of fresh chicken from Malaysia to Singapore has officially begun. The news broke just about a week ago and triggered a nationwide panic attack. Some dramatic reactions to the ban – people mourning the dethronement of chicken rice as a national dish, and sharing a list of all the chicken rice dishes that Singaporeans love… that we can’t enjoy anymore – yup, this piece of news has devastated the nation. It isn’t the first time that Singapore has experienced commodity shortages. A quick flashback: toilet paper shortages at the start of the pandemic, then masks and PPE kits at the height of the pandemic, and most recently, the potato shortage largely due to the war in Ukraine. Now, it’s fresh chicken. Photograph: Thayut Sutheeravut/ Shutterstock Sure, some of the panic is justified  Chicken is central to so many of our favourite dishes: the iconic chicken rice, nasi lemak, curry chicken…the list goes on. And we love our affordable hawker culture, so when the price of these dishes go up so much as a cent – it hurts. It doesn’t help that predicted food shortages and an impending recession only spells more price hikes and more strapped wallets in the future. Cue the doom and gloom. Then there’s the whole debate of fresh versus frozen. Singaporeans are a fussy – okay, discerning – bunch. Many insist that fresh chicken has far superior taste and texture when compared to its frozen counterpart. So when a third of the nation’s fresh bird supply is held in a cho

The government will be relaxing more restrictions from April 26 after the Ministry of Health (MOH) made the statement on April 22 that Singapore will lower its Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (Dorscon) from orange to yellow level next Tuesday. The relaxed restrictions show a huge change from where we were two years ago and include not having a limit on group sizes and the green light for all workers to return to workplaces and offices.  No more limit on group sizes Let's just say, gatherings and parties are truly back on the social calendar. There will be no limit on group sizes or visitors per household. Masks on or off? Masks are still required in indoor settings and optional when outdoors – although it is recommended when it gets crowded. Safe distancing is longer required – but of course, please be respectful of space.  Slowing down on TraceTogether The use of TraceTogether and SafeEntry to be stepped down gradually. Most venues will longer require check-ins except for large-scale events. It's back to commuting to the office All workers may return to the workplace from next Tuesday. This is an increase from the present limit of 75 percent of those who can work from home. Workers will also be allowed to remove masks in the workplace, as long as they are not interacting physically with others and are not in customer-facing areas. Capacity limits for venues There will longer be capacity limits for venues except for nightlife venues where there is dancing where a

Tickets for the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2022 will be available for public sale at 10am from April 13 onwards, as announced by race organiser Singapore Grand Prix (GP). The event is set to take place at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from September 30 to October 2.  A spokesperson for Singapore GP said, "The popularity of Formula 1 has been skyrocketing thanks in part to the thrilling season last year which saw a close battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, as well as the much-followed Drive to Survive documentary series on Netflix. The excitement is set to continue this year with the resurgence of Ferrari. Their incredible performance at the opening race this season, as well as those of Haas and Alfa Romeo will keep fans at the edge of their seats." Here’s what we know about the 2022 Singapore Grand Prix The event is set to take place at the Marina Bay Street Circuit from September 30 to October 2 after a two-year absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The tickets include three-day grandstand offerings, priced at $298 to $1,288 as well as combination packages ranging from $698 to $1,088. The event is also made to be accessible to everyone including the specially abled. Single-day tickets for wheelchair accessible areas for people in wheelchairs and their companions are also available at $38, $88 and $128. "We have had overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2022 since the contract renewal announcement in January, with fantastic

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will give an update on Singapore's Covid-19 situation in an address to the nation at 11am, with the multi-ministry taskforce following up with a press conference of their own. There's been a lot of speculation as to what he will be announcing today. Perhaps more relaxed restrictions and safe management measures? Or no more VTLs? Or even an increase in numbers for social gatherings? We'll bring the important takeaways as we go along.  After providing an overview of the situation, Prime Minister Lee runs through the impact of the Delta and Omicron waves. Daily cases have been coming down, and daily infections were halved in about three weeks.  He mentioned that “our population has stronger immunity” and that “the pressure is now easing”. Social gatherings will increase to ten people But one-metre distancing between groups will still be observed. Up to 75 percent of employees who WFH will be able to return to their workplace. There will also be an increased capacity limit for events.  Wearing masks in outdoor settings is optionalWearing masks outdoors will be optional but indoor settings will still be compulsory. This new rule will start from March 29, Tuesday. Opening land travel between Singapore and MalaysiaThis is still in discussion between the two parties but Singapore and Malaysia have agreed to start working towards resuming full air and land travel for vaccinated people. Fourth vaccine dose?Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said that the Minis

UPDATE – March 23  In a far cry from previous Ramadan bazaars at Geylang Serai, this year's affair will see 40 stalls comprising only eight food stalls and 32 non-food stalls.  Initial reports about its return already hinted that the bazaar this year would be a scaled-down affair to control crowds and prevent the spread of Covid-19. Still, we can't help a tinge of disappointment that the bazaar is not returning at full capacity – previous events were exciting and upbeat affairs with over 100 stalls and loads of snacks and interesting bites.  To keep up the festive mood, the Ramadan bazaar this year will be fashioned after a fairytale blossom garden theme. Stalls will be transformed into a whimsical garden, complete with lush colours and floral design elements.  We encourage you to head down to show your support to the participating stalls anyway. Just remember to observe prevailing Safe Management Measures to keep yourself and others safe. Virtual Reality Capability technology will also be in place to help control crowds and keep things moving seamlessly – so expect QR codes, e-menus, queue card systems and more.  What do you think about the scaled-down Ramadan bazaar? And what food stalls are you hoping to see? March 11 Missed the iconic Ramadan bazaar in Geylang Serai where you would get your fix of Ramly burgers, roti john and keropok lekor? The popular Ramadan night market will make a comeback this year – after a two-year hiatus – but there will be some tweaks.  At the m

Nifty Fifty is a new series where the Time Out Singapore team spends $50 any way they want around town – and we share the experience. Whether it's a secret joint for a boozy night out, a budget (but ace) omakase place or an interesting item we've been eyeing at the shops, we let you in on the cool stores, eateries, places and activities you should be spending at.  This week, our designer Kashmira spent $50 on a motion sensor pottery wheel from Toys R Us ($34.99).  Verdict: Though it is a kid's toy, I think this is a pretty interesting one – and a far level up from Barbies and all of that. Plus at $34.99, it's pretty much a steal. The clay is provided, along with a couple of basic pottery tools (but in plastic) and a variety of colours for painting once your masterpiece has fully dried. The only thing missing is the kiln of course, but hey, it is a toy for kids.  Photograph: Kashmira Kasmuri Buy it now at any Toys R Us store or online.

If we look back in the last year, Singapore today is such a different place – and it feels different too. The streets are much busier, borders are reopening, and dining out – and even hanging out – is pretty much back. Even with cases still in the community, it feels like we're learning to live around it. Like really, really live. There's definitely a sense of positivity and hope in the air.  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 the city they loved. Last year, 62 percent of respondents voted Singapore as the greenest city and zero percent listed us as a dirty city – making us the cleanest and greenest city in the world. But are we really surprised about it? 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 2022 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.  Take the Time Out Index now 

Whatever you think you know about Singapore, you better start making room for a whole new set of discoveries. Over the past year, we’ve had the privilege to rediscover our own backyard and reignite our appreciation for the city – and this has resulted in the Love Local guidebook.  Together with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), we've set out on a quest to dig deep and uncover hidden gems and also talked to interesting personalities and stakeholders in various neighbourhoods about their personal stories. We saw innovative placemaking happen, the greening of spaces with rich histories and heritage, the importance of community in shaping history – these moments made us reflect on how our actions affect the future of these spaces, and our city. Pick up a copy now or head to the Love Local website to check out what we have discovered. The next time you go out on a walk, remember to slow down to notice jagged alleyways, colourful tiles of shophouses and ancient heritage trees on your hikes – and much more. Happy rediscovering! Check out the Love Local website here Here's where to pick a copy up: Time Out Singapore HQ – 39A Amoy Street, Singapore 069865The Intan – 69 Joo Chiat Terrace, Singapore 427231Indian Heritage Centre – 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924Aloha Sea Sports Centre – 1212 ECP, E2 Area E Car Park, Singapore 449886Tong Mern Sern – 51 Craig Rd, Singapore 089689Artichoke – 161 Middle Rd, Singapore 188978My Community – Commonwealth Drive, #01-388 Block 46-3, Sin

Here's another spot to add to the list of places that don't look and feel like Singapore – but there's a catch. You have to get up early. Really, really early. Just like us.  Yet another impressive park connector in Singapore – we've just seen the wonders of Changi Bay Point in the past few months – the Ulu Sembawang Park Connector cuts through the nature reserve to link the Woodlands (SLE) Park Connector to the Mandai Park Connector.  The park connector gives you great views of the sunrise but if you wake up a little earlier you'll find yourself in a misty wonderland that is both breathtaking and surreal. Soak up the purplish-pink skies and the sounds of birds flitting around.  Start the journey from the closest MRT station, Woodlands South Station, where you will have to walk for about 15 minutes along Woodlands Ave 1 and then turn right to Woodlands Ave 12 where you follow the Woodlands PCN until you reach the entrance of the Ulu Sembawang Park Connector. The connector starts at Seletar Expressway and ends at Mandai Road, and is also the route for both cyclists and trekkers to take to get to the popular Mandai T15 trail.  But if you're thinking of checking out the trail this week, here's a heads up for you: the Ulu Sembawang Park Connector is closed for upgrading works till March 23. But for now, enjoy the views we took.  READ MOREWoodlands Town Park East: A green gem that offers refreshing views from the top of the hillBring some zen to your day at these new therapeu

It's official – starting April 1, Malaysia is set to fully reopen its borders as part of the country's process of moving into the endemic phase. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that what this means is that international travellers entering Malaysia would only need to have valid travel documents to enter and exit the country. On top of that, Malaysians can also travel freely to other countries with similar open borders.  Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to undergo any quarantine procedures. They will only need to take a Covid-19 reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test two days before departure and a professional Covid-19 rapid test kit-antigen (RTK-Ag) test within 24 hours after arrival in Malaysia.  For countries that have not fully reopened their borders such as neighbouring countries Indonesia and Singapore, Malaysians can utilise the vaccinated travel lanes (VTLs) that had been agreed on between Putrajaya and the relevant countries, the prime minister said.  As for matters of the Causeway, the current land crossing arrangement in place is the land VTL scheme, meaning travellers can book bus tickets on either Transtar or Causeway Link. So far, both Singapore and Malaysia authorities have also not revealed any plans to allow drivers to use the Causeway.