Joycelyn Yeow

The September school holidays might be over, but there’s still plenty to keep you and the fam busy this weekend. Check out Japanese artist Daisuke Kondo’s whimsical exhibition, or mingle at a free laundromat social mixer. Pet lovers can swing by a camping-themed market at The Star Vista, while flower enthusiasts can visit Gardens by the Bay’s latest Swiss-inspired floral display. Read on for the best things to do in Singapore this weekend. RECOMMENDED: New openings and attractions in Singapore in 2025 and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

We might be halfway through September, but the fun is anything but half-baked. This week, take a peek into the future at Singapore Science Park’s exhibition Reinvention, vibe to live music performances for free at Marina Central or drop by the Dreamriver Market and get some goodies for yourself. Mid-autumn festival and Oktoberfest celebrations have also begun at Chinatown and Clarke Quay, so you’ve got heaps to check out. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this week.  RECOMMENDED: The 101 best things to do in Singapore and New attractions in Singapore in 2025    

Bali? No. Think quieter, less crowded and arguably better. This slice of Indonesia hasn’t been overrun by tourists, and you won’t need to shell out for a private island resort just to soak up its beauty. Welcome to Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in Belitung, set within the UNESCO Global Geopark of Belitung Island where pearlescent sands meet dramatic granite boulders, and a scattering of tiny islands floats just offshore. Now, you might be thinking: isn’t it just another spot in Indonesia? Fair question. That’s why we’ve pulled together a quick guide to the best things to do in and around Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, so you can decide for yourself if this coastal escape deserves a spot on your itinerary. Spoiler: I’m already planning my return.  RECOMMENDED: Digital nomad visas in Asia and The best islands in Asia you need to visit at least once

Whether you're gearing up for the upcoming weekend or the long-awaited school holidays, Singapore is brimming with fun, quirky, and educational activities for kids of all ages. From making a splash at an outdoor water playground to getting your hands dirty at rice planting workshops, we've curated a list of the best things to do with your kids, so your next family outing is packed with fun and unforgettable memories. RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails for kids and the best free playgrounds in Singapore

September is here, and while Singapore may not have autumn leaves or pumpkin patches, the city is packed with events to fill your calendar. From ballet performances to boutique marketplaces, there is plenty to see, taste and experience across the island. Food lovers can savour unique flavours at the Singapore Food Festival food trucks, while thrill-seekers can try surfing or snowboarding at Trifecta’s Ride in the City. Art enthusiasts can explore new exhibitions, including Another World Is Possible at the ArtScience Museum, which presents a vision of the future through a Singaporean lens. And that’s just the beginning – scroll on to discover more of the best things to do in Singapore this September.RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and 7 very demure, very mindful things to do in Singapore

No matter the occasion, gifting a beautiful bouquet to your loved one is always a great idea – you get to choose a design that best suits your recipient, and fresh blooms look (and smell) great when displayed on one’s dining table. To make your gift-giving easier, we’ve rounded up some of the best flower delivery services in Singapore that’ll safely deliver your precious bouquet to your giftee. You won’t even have to leave the house to pick the bouquet. All you have to do is select your posy and cart out.   RECOMMENDED: The most romantic restaurants in Singapore and The most romantic hotels in Singapore

July in Singapore is shaping up to be packed with lots of fun things to do. From thought-provoking stage productions to interactive exhibitions, there’s a little something for everyone to explore this month. Catch Singapore, Michigan, a dark comedy road trip brought to life by Pangdemonium, or marvel at larger-than-life inflatables at Pop Air – Art is Inflatable. Art lovers can immerse themselves in marine worlds, psychedelic mirror rooms and Southeast Asian dreamscapes across venues like the National Gallery and Singapore Art Museum. For families, the Gallery Children's Biennale and Disney Garden of Wonder are perfect for some multi-generational fun. Want something outdoorsy? Make your way to Palawan Beach for Sentosa’s Sunset Watch Party, or see dinosaurs come to life at Jurassic World: The Experience in the Cloud Forest. And if you’re a foodie, don’t miss Seoul’s cult favourite Standard Bun at its first pop-up here. Whether you're rediscovering the city or seeing it for the first time, July is packed with reasons to go out and explore. And hey, some of it’s even free. RECOMMENDED: Singapore’s best new restaurants  

Singapore’s hotel scene is buzzing with a fresh crop of new openings in 2025, offering everything from rainforest resorts to urban lifestyle hotels. Whether you’re a local in need of a pampering staycation or a tourist hunting for a new place to stay, there’s something for everyone. From lavish villas with private plunge pools to a boutique hotel housed in a decommissioned MRT train, here are the hottest new hotels in Singapore to bookmark this year:  RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore 2025 and The 50 best cafés in Singapore

The Singapore National Stadium is easily one of the most sought-after concert venues in the city – and for good reason. Despite a variety of other venues available, this iconic stadium stands out with its massive 55,000-seat capacity and the accolade of being the largest dome in the world. Over the years, it has drawn a stellar line-up of international superstars including Harry Styles. Guns N’ Roses, Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift,  thanks to its state-of-the-art sound system and well-designed space. With the significant sums of money spent on concert tickets, coupled with the chaos and stress of ticketing queues and limited availability, choosing the right seat becomes all the more important to make the most of the experience. Ticketing platforms typically release general seating plans, but the ideal spot depends largely on personal preferences. Some fans enjoy being on their feet in the standing pens, immersed in the energy of the crowd. Others may prefer a comfortable seat to enjoy the music with a full view of the stage. Some also opt for side-stage seats for a closer glimpse of the performers. To help make the decision easier, we’ve broken down the seating options based on the different types of concert-goers. Seating layouts can vary from show to show depending on stage design, so use this guide as a starting point when planning where to sit for the next big gig at the National Stadium. RECOMMENDED: The best concerts and music festivals in Singapore i

Outdoor lovers will know – there are many nature trails and parks in Singapore, so much so that you can plan an entire weekend’s worth of things to do at these green spaces. And one such place would be the 24km-long Rail Corridor, which reopened in 2021 after two years of renovation work. Following this came the restoration of Bukit Timah Railway Station, the launch of Rifle Range Nature Park, and the reopening of the northern section of the Rail Corridor – all of which are part of the Rail Corridor. Needless to say, there’s much to do here. Whether it’s your first or tenth visiting the revamped space, we’ve curated a guide on what to see and do. Happy trails! RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails in Singapore and the best outdoor spots in Singapore to admire nature from above  

Singapore Changi Airport hardly needs an introduction. Crowned the world’s best airport in 2025, the airport’s striking architecture and impressive dining offerings are just some of the reasons why it has earned its global acclaim.  Whether you’re flying through or simply looking for a new spot to explore, there’s plenty to uncover here – from rooftop pools and interactive installations to serene nature spaces. Here’s a round-up of the best things to do at Changi Airport. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best restaurants in Singapore and The best concerts and music festivals in Singapore in 2025

Jewel Changi Airport isn’t just for layovers and luggage. It is also home to Canopy Park, a sprawling indoor playground for all ages. From sky-high bouncing nets and mirrored mazes to misty gardens and floral wonderlands, it’s a great place to unleash your inner child. Whether you're racing through hedge mazes or snapping selfies with animal-shaped topiaries, there's no shortage of ways to kill time and calories at this all-day attraction. Canopy Park is open from 10am to 9pm from Mondays to Thursdays, and 10am to 10pm from Fridays to Sundays. Tickets are priced from $6 for both adults and children.  RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore 2025 and New attractions in Singapore in 2025

Japanese artist Daisuke Kondo makes his international solo exhibition debut at Heartware Store and Gallery – the free-entry art space in Joo Chiat that previously hosted the Itadakimasu! and Hello Singapore! exhibitions. Renowned for his hand-carved sculptures and wistful characters, Kondo’s works reflect the subtle, emotional connections we form with the world around us. Visitors can browse a showcase of his signature pieces, from serene paintings to hand-carved sculptures featuring the artist’s beloved characters such as Pengin, Kuma, Hana and Thiranosaurusu. To mark his first exhibition outside Japan, the gallery will also offer original artworks and exclusive gallery merchandise for sale. Plus, on September 20, Kondo himself will be present for a special live tote bag drawing session, where he’ll create custom illustrations for visitors.

Looking for something to do after dinner? Swing by the Offsite Creators Market, taking place at *Scape Playscape from September 19 to 20, 5.30pm to 10.30pm. Curated by Open Design Dialogue, this evening market brings together a mix of independent brands and makers – think Yukimitsuyasu’s free jewellery repair booth, seasoning salts and condiments from Addictives, handmade homeware from Good Good Ceramics and many more. And yes, there’ll be plenty of food too. Tuck into fresh bakes, hearty burgers, and don’t miss Orchard’s iconic ice cream uncle, Uncle Chieng.

Laundry might usually feel like a mindless chore, but this pop-up turns it into something more meaningful. Laundry and Let Go is a two-week activation that combines everyday tasks with mindfulness, guided by trainer Tan York Cheng. Drawing from the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction programme, the session includes mindful drinking (you’ll get a hot drink and free nonya kueh), a guided breathing meditation, insights on how stress impacts the body and mind, plus practical sleep tips for deeper rest. The alfresco space outside the laundromat also transforms into a communal hangout spot. Think prompt cards to spark conversations, board games to play with friends, or books if you’d prefer some solo time. The best part? Everything is free to enjoy.

Pawrents already know The Star Vista is a hotspot for pet-friendly outings – and this September, it’s going all out with Pets Social Ground. Happening on September 19 to 21 and again on September 26 to 28, the weekend affair is all about pampering your four-legged pals while discovering pet-friendly brands. Held at the open-air atrium, the pop-up features booths selling everything from pet food and treats to stylish accessories. Strike a pose with your furkid at the free camping-themed photo spots, or join hands-on DIY workshops like making a paw print keepsake or a customised collar with charms. Don’t miss the free goodie bag giveaways at 11am and 5pm. For something extra special, head up to Level 2 for the Glamping Experience, where you can dabao good from The Star Vista’s F&B spots and chill out with your pet in cosy tents.

Hobbyists, unite! The Hobbies Fair is the ultimate gathering spot for anyone who loves to geek out over their favourite pastimes. Across two days, passionate communities will come together over everything from tabletop games, card and coin collecting to cosplay, role-play tech games and arts-and-crafts. Fancy a round of chess with a stranger? Join in the community activities, along with live demos and artist showcases designed to spark new connections. Beyond the fun, browse a wide range of booths run by local and international small businesses, offering handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind finds. 

No need to hop on a 12-hour flight to Switzerland – Gardens by the Bay has brought the Alpine summer right to the Flower Dome. Alpine Adventure is the first-ever Swiss-inspired floral display here, recreating the country’s mountain landscapes with nearly 6,000 plants across 50 varieties – around 60 per cent of which are grown in-house. Think cleomes, geraniums, petunias, snapdragons and oversized begonias reaching up to 12cm wide, alongside striking Odorosa and Sensation blooms in hues of red, pink and white. It’s not just flowers either. You’ll find iconic Swiss landmarks lovingly reimagined, including the Golden Spot on Zermatt’s Gornergrat summit set against the Matterhorn, Zurich’s St Peter’s Church with its 6.5-metre-tall façade and Europe’s largest clock face, and the Fraumünster church with stained-glass windows inspired by Marc Chagall. Step inside a 5.5-metre-long replica of the Glacier Express carriage with panoramic windows, marvel at the Geneva Flower Clock recreated with 1,000 begonias, and spot whimsical touches like Swiss chalets, Valais blacknose sheep and alpine cows grazing among the meadows. There will also be a special live performance by internationally renowned Swiss cellist JodokCello – with over 13 million social media followers – on October 1.

As part of Singapore Design Week 2025, Singapore Science Park has unveiled a new exhibition, Reinvention, at the lifestyle hub Geneo. True to its name, the exhibition explores how science, technology and design come together to influence the future. Visitors can check out the robotics showcase, which highlights how machines can support and enhance human life, fostering a collaborative relationship between man and machine. You can also get an insight into some interesting food tech innovations, offering a glimpse of how we might eat in the future. Join panels led by industry professionals that explore how sustainable designs can be integrated into architecture in Singapore, with leading voices sharing their creative journeys and insights. For those wanting a more hands-on experience, there are also workshops such as building your own sustainable tech toolkit and experimenting with design-driven solutions.

As part of the Singapore River Festival 2025, the DreamRiver Market is making a return, curated by Sunday Social Market to shine a spotlight on independent creatives and eco-conscious brands. More than 20 local vendors will be showcasing their wares, from soy wax scented candles by Candletruck and skincare by From The Dot, to fragrances from Danhomme and unique jewellery from Savage Archipelago, plus plenty more. For something a little different, get a temporary jagua tattoo by Jynk Ink – great for experimenting without committing to a permanent design. The market is set along Robertson Quay, outside the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel, and runs from 3pm to 9.30pm. Entry to the market is free and the entire area is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring along your four-legged friends. 

The Marina Central area is coming alive with the District M Festival, transforming the space into a colourful hub of music and activities. Different zones represent a variety of genres, from acoustic and R&B to pop and electronic, with live performances from local and international artists including Nathan Hartono, DJ Gigi, Cherry Chan, DJ Iku, Mila Bea, Takayoshi, Zalelo and more. Beyond the music, there’s plenty to do: try candle marbling, get a temporary jagua tattoo, challenge friends to a game of giant chess, or strike a pose at the photobooth. Fans of coffee and sick beats won’t want to miss the growingly popular sober coffee rave by Beans&Beats. The festival is pet-friendly in all open-air areas. Be sure to bring a rain poncho just in case, as the event will continue rain or shine and there are plenty of outdoor spaces to explore.

Two decades, countless anthems and one epic night – Mayday Parade is bringing their Three Cheers For 20 Years tour to Singapore. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just familiar with a few hits, this is your chance to catch Mayday Parade live. The setlist has yet to be announced, but concertgoers can look forward to fan favourites such as Jamie All Over, Miserable At Best, Dead Friends, Oh Well, Oh Well and Stay, taking you through two decades of the band’s unforgettable music. 

October is arriving early at Clarke Quay, with Oktoberfest celebrations taking place on September 19 and 20 at the Clarke Quay Fountain Square. Don your dirndls or lederhosen and raise a cold pint with friends to mark the festive season. The alfresco event will feature live sets from DJs Shaty, Reiko and Rock Rosettes, keeping the energy high throughout the celebrations. Take part in fun games like the Pretzel Toss and the Hammer and Wood Chopping Machine to compete with your pals. Of course, no Oktoberfest is complete without food and drink – enjoy Erdinger pints and a selection of German snacks as you soak in the lively atmosphere.

Not all tigers are fearsome – some simply want to share a spot of tea. The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a great family-friendly show to bring the little ones to this weekend.  The play follows Sophie and her mum as they sit down for tea, only to be joined by a surprise guest: a big, stripy tiger. Packed with singalong songs and playful skits, the production promises plenty of laughs and excitement for young audiences. The show is suited for children aged three and up, and with a runtime of just under an hour – the ideal length to keep kids entertained without testing their attention span. 

UPDATE: Lucky us – famous K-pop girl group Blackpink has announced an additional date for their upcoming concert tour in Singapore.  This morning (September 19), Live Nation Singapore announced that Lisa, Jennie, Rose, and Jisoo will also be performing on November 28, 2025. This is in addition to the November 29 and 30 shows – bringing the number of concert dates up to three. And true to their record-breaking form, this makes Blackpink the first K-pop girl group to perform three consecutive nights at Singapore's National Stadium. If you didn't secure tickets before, then here's your final chance: there will be two pre-sales and a general onsale for the November 28 show.  Weverse Blink Membership (Global) presale: Registration: September 19, 11am to September 21, 10.59pm; info at livenation.sg Presale: September 24 (Wed), 2pm to 11.59pm; info here Trip.com presale: September 25 (Thu), 2pm to 11.59pm; visit trip.com General on-sale: September 26 (Fri), 2pm onwards May 27, 2025 Blinks, great news – Blackpink is officially back in our area. The global K-pop sensation is returning to Singapore with their new Deadline world tour, marking their much-anticipated comeback since their last performance here in November 2024 during the Blackpink Born Pink World Tour.  Since their debut, Jennie, Lisa, Rosé, and Jisoo of Blackpink have been setting the bar high for K-pop girl groups. From being the first Korean girl group to grace the stages of Coachella to snagging collaborations wit

You can stop rubbing your eyes – you read that right. China Eastern Airlines has just announced a new service that’s claimed the crown for the world’s longest direct flight, clocking in at a whopping 29 hours in the air. Set to take off on December 4, 2025, this epic journey will link Shanghai and Buenos Aires, with a brief stopover in Auckland. Covering more than 10,600 nautical miles, the route pushes well past some of today’s longest-haul contenders, including Singapore Airlines’ famed Singapore-New York service and Air China’s Beijing-Sao Paulo connection. For the uninitiated, one nautical mile measures roughly 1,852m, and is traditionally used at sea and in aviation for accuracy over long distances. The Shanghai to Buenos Aires leg is expected to take around 25 hours, but the return trip stretches to 29 hours due to headwinds – so passengers should pack plenty of entertainment, snacks and patience to make the journey more bearable. Flights will operate twice a week, with departures from Shanghai to Buenos Aires on Mondays and Thursdays, and returns on Tuesdays and Fridays. Economy fares for December currently start from around SGD1,640 one way, which is fairly competitive considering the sheer distance covered. While this flight might not be for the faint of heart, it opens up a new option for travellers flying between Asia and South America.  Did you know? China is now home to the world’s largest train station, 5 times bigger than NYC’s Grand Central Plus: Cambodia’s ne

Put your party hats on – it’s time to celebrate the end of the year in serious style. The world’s biggest hip-hop festival has already lit up stages in Miami, Pattaya and Vienna, and now, for the very first time, Rolling Loud is making its way to India.  Rolling Loud India touches down in November 2025 at The Loud Park in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, with a line-up that is stacked with a heady mix of international superstars and local favourites. Highlights include UK rapper Central Cee spitting bars alongside hip-hop heavyweights like Wiz Khalifa, Don Toliver, Denzel Curry and Ski Mask the Slump God. Adding local flavour, Punjabi sensations Karan Aujla, Humankind, Divine and more will be representing India on the global stage. Much like its sister festivals around the world, Rolling Loud India is designed to be more than just a music event. Between sets, festival-goers can fuel up at food and drink stalls, dive into fringe activities, and soak up the buzzing atmosphere while waiting for their favourite artists to hit the stage.  The festival runs from November 22 to 23, with general ticket sales already live. Prices start at 7,000 Indian Rupee, so snag yours quick before they’re gone.  Did you know? The deepest and longest canyon on Earth is right here in Asia – and yes, you can hike it Plus: Cambodia’s new $2 billion airport opens with nature-themed architecture and a giant golden Buddha statue Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel in

Sometimes, the noise of everyday life gets a little too loud and you just want to shut it all out. For many, that escape means hopping on a plane in search of a little zen. But where should you go? British travel company Travelbag has released its list of the world’s most tranquil destinations in 2025 – and yes, a few Asian cities have made the cut. Over 30 locations were ranked, with factors such as noise and light pollution, overall cleanliness, travel congestion, and quality of green spaces taken into account. In short, the things that make it easier to switch off and properly unwind. Claiming the top spot is Queenstown, New Zealand, which scored highly for its pristine parks and green spaces, as well as impressively low levels of pollution. The Seychelles Islands take second place, while Cairns, Australia comes in third. Perhaps most surprising is Kyoto, Japan in fourth place. Despite being a perennial tourist hotspot, the former imperial capital remains remarkably clean, quiet and green. With its classical Buddhist temples, manicured gardens, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden townhouses, it’s proof that you don’t need to trek halfway across the globe to find serenity. Further down the list, Tokyo lands in 11th place, an interesting result given that it’s Japan’s bustling capital. Yet, despite the city’s famously fast-paced lifestyle, Tokyo still boasts an impressive number of green spaces, and its commitment to cleanliness is second to none. You’ll be hard-pressed t

Say farewell to Phnom Penh International Airport and welcome Cambodia’s brand-new Techo International Airport, which officially opened in September 2025. The $2 billion mega-project is a collaboration between the Cambodian government and Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation, and artfully designed by acclaimed British architecture firm Foster + Partners. Spanning a massive 2,600 hectares, the airport is projected to handle up to 13 million passengers annually, with ambitious plans to scale to 50 million by 2050. One of its most striking features, as seen in travellers’ videos online, is the giant golden Buddha statue at the heart of the terminal – an instant photo spot for tourists before they jet off. Adding to the sense of calm, rows of lush greenery line the concourse, as part of the airport’s aim to be one of the greenest in the world. In fact, the terminal is said to be powered almost entirely by an onsite solar farm. Architecturally, the airport is topped with a single sweeping canopy roof supported by structural trees made of lightweight steel, filtering daylight to flood the terminal with natural light. Foster + Partners notes that the interiors were crafted to reinterpret the Cambodian vernacular in a contemporary way, with warm-toned palettes adding a welcoming glow. Beyond the gates, you will find a wide mix of duty-free shops, from snacks and spirits to Cambodian souvenirs, so you can grab a final memento before boarding. Did you know? This gorgeous coastal ci

If you thought New York’s Grand Central Terminal was big, wait until you see Chongqing East Station in China – now officially the world’s largest train station. At a whopping 1.22 million square metres, it’s more than five times the size of Grand Central. Located in Nan’an, Chongqing, the project came with a hefty price tag of £5.82 billion. The station houses 15 platforms and 29 tracks, built to handle up to 16,000 passengers every hour – and with so much space, there’s plenty of room for passengers to move without feeling packed in. Its architecture pays homage to local culture, taking inspiration from huangjue trees which are native to Chongqing. You’ll also spot details like a bamboo scroll welcome sign and flower-shaped ventilation grills. Natural light floods the cavernous interiors through the vast glass curtain wall roof, giving the space an airy, open feel. As with any major hub, there are plenty of food options – from international staples like McDonald’s and KFC to local eateries selling Chongqing specialities. Chongqing East Station is also a major stop for several high-speed rail lines, including the Chongqing-Xiamen, Shanghai-Chongqing-Chengdu and Chongqing-Wanzhou routes. Thanks to these connections, passengers can reach Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen in just six to eight hours. Did you know? This gorgeous coastal city in Vietnam welcome its first JW Marriott resort Plus: 10 best street food cities in Asia you need to eat through Stay in the loop: si

Train otaku or not, it’s clear to everyone that rail travel is on the rise. From Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express to the overnight line between China and Vietnam – and even the upcoming KL-Bangkok service launching later this year – train journeys are having a serious moment. Adding to the list is the brand-new Hanoi Train, which officially began operations just last week. Launched in collaboration with the Vietnam Railway Corporation, the service runs two departures daily from Hanoi Station, passing through Gia Lam and Yen Vien before reaching Tu Son Station in Bac Ninh province, then looping back to Hanoi. Designed to spotlight Vietnam’s rich history and culture, the train takes inspiration from the ancient Thang Long Citadel. Its carriages are named after the five gates – Cau Den, Cau Giay, Cho Dua, Dong Mac and Quan Chuong. Each of the five double-decker carriages follow a unique theme, with room for up to 60 passengers. On board, you’ll find live showcases of traditional Vietnamese music and dance – from quan ho and cheo to xam and ca tru – alongside handicraft workshops such as making Dong Ho paintings and Phu The cakes. And if all that leaves you feeling peckish, there’s a menu of Hanoi specialities to tuck into, including young sticky rice, lotus tea, and other seasonal treats. The journey takes just 40 minutes, with departures at 8am and 1.30pm daily. Travellers are advised to check in 30 minutes before departure. Tickets are currently priced from VND 550,000 (ap

Flying might be the most common way to travel, but trains have quickly become a close contender. With rail networks expanding across the globe, luxurious sleeper trains like Belmond’s Eastern and Oriental Express offering scenic journeys, and high-speed rail proving just as fast and efficient as other modes of transport, train travel has seen a serious glow-up in recent years.  And if you’re wondering which countries boast the most extensive high-speed rail networks, the results might surprise you. Despite being the birthplace of the bullet train, Japan doesn’t top the list. According to the World Population Review, China leads by a landslide with a staggering 64,775km of high-speed track, 40,474km of which are in operation. The Beijing-Guangzhou line alone stretches 2,298km, making it the longest high-speed railway in the world, with a journey time of around eight hours. Another 2,600km of high-speed track is set to be added by the end of 2025. In second place is Spain, with 5,579km of high-speed rail – a far cry from China’s numbers. Japan ranks third with 3,677km, followed by France and Germany in fourth and fifth place. The top 10 longest high-speed rail networks in the world in 2025:  China Spain Japan France Germany Finland Turkey Italy South Korea Sweden  The longest high-speed rail networks in Asia in 2025:  China Japan South Korea India Indonesia Vietnam Thailand  View the full list here. Did you know? This high-powered Asian city is the world’s second most relax

Rising living costs are something most of us have to endure, which is why some choose to pack up and move abroad in search of a more affordable lifestyle. But which cities are genuinely the easiest on the wallet? A new study by Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy has the answer – and topping the list is Shenzhen, China, ranked as the most affordable city for both locals and expats. The research compared 45 cities across Asia, Australasia, Europe and North America, taking into account factors such as housing markets, education fees and transport costs. Unsurprisingly, New York, Zurich and Los Angeles are the priciest cities for both expats and residents. The study highlights that the most expensive cities remain concentrated in North America and Western Europe. On the flip side, Shenzhen leads the list of the world’s most affordable cities for expats. Despite being dubbed China’s Silicon Valley and serving as the country’s third most populous city after Shanghai and Beijing, Shenzhen still boasts relatively low housing prices compared to the other global cities. Bangkok takes second place, followed by Osaka and Kobe in joint third. The top 10 cities with the lowest cost of living for expats:  Shenzhen, China Bangkok, Thailand Osaka and Kobe, Japan Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Taipei, Taiwan Hanoi, Vietnam Manila, Philippines Jakarta, Indonesia Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Mumbai, India   Shenzhen also has the lowest cost of living for locals, with Beijing and Taipei ranked se

Heads up if you’re travelling to Indonesia – there’s a new arrival declaration procedure you have to complete. But ‘fret not, it’s completely free of charge and meant to make your entry into Indonesia fuss free.  Starting September 1, 2025, all travellers, including citizens, are required to use the new mobile phone app All Indonesia to complete the arrival declaration. The app aims to shorten and simplify the arrival process by streamlining all immigration, customs, quarantine and health declarations into one form. It’s also made to be user-friendly so elderly and people with disabilities can easily use the app, and is available in English, Chinese and Bahasa Indonesia.  Travellers can complete and submit the form via the app up to three days before arrival, and the entire process is free of charge.  This is currently implemented for travellers arriving at three airports: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, in Bali, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, and Juanda International Airport in Surabaya. Those entering via the international sea ports in Batam are also required to use the new app. This process will subsequently be rolled out to the other airports.  Did you know? This high-powered Asian city is the world’s second most relaxing destination in 2025 Plus: These 4 Asian airports made Travel + Leisure’s list of the World’s Best International Airports for 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out As

If you "want to feel young again", grab your party people and get ready to paint the town red this September with DJ Hardwell. The famous Dutch DJ is back on tour this month, and he's bringing his shows to Asia – specifically Thailand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea and China.  Known for his top-charting hits like Spaceman , Apollo, Young Again and Dare You, Hardwell has become one of the top DJs in the EDM sphere. Since his debut, he has headlined major global music festivals, including Tomorrowland, Coachella and Ultra Music Festival, and was crowned the world's best DJ by DJ Magazine twice. Over the years, he's teamed up with fellow Dutch DJ Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and Afrojack, as well as international superstars like Jason Derulo, Jay Sean, Craig David, and many more.  The DJ announced his upcoming September tours on his social media platform just this week, and he's set to perform at the following locations: September 11: Illusion in Phuket, Thailand September 12: Marquee in Singapore September 14: Ultra Japan in Tokyo, Japan September 20: Ultra Korea in Seoul, South Korea September 21: Electric Jungle in Foshan, China Tickets for the Asia shows are currently available for purchase – details can be found on the official Hardwell website .  Did you know? Indonesian rapper Rich Brian announces new Asia tour stops in Taipei, Manila, Singapore, and more Plus: 16 brilliant music festivals in Asia you don't want to miss in 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out

Candlelight meditations, sunrise pilates and expert-led wellness workshops – that’s just a taste of what awaits at the Soul Festival this October. Held at Soneva Fushi, an award-winning eco-luxury resort set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, this five-day retreat takes wellness to a whole new level. Forget cramped yoga studios and clichéd panels urging you to switch off your phone – the Soul Festival is wellness reimagined, blending luxury with holistic living. Happening from October 9 to 13, the festival unfolds within a barefoot sanctuary, encouraging guests to connect with the earth and embrace nature at every step. Programmes follow four central themes: Foundations of Wellness, Peak Performance and Longevity, Holistic Balance and Vitality, and Practical Integration and Embodied Wisdom. Each morning begins with mindful movement against a stunning ocean backdrop – from barefoot Sanctum sessions on the beach to energising pilates. After a nourishing breakfast, guests can dive into thought-provoking panels led by leading voices in the wellness world, including co-founders of the Flow Genome Project Jamie Wheal and Julie Webster, Sanctum founders Luuk Melisse and Gabriel Olszewski, CEO of Bodyism Nathalie Schyllert, leading dermatologist Dr Timm Golüke and many more. Afternoons are dedicated to hands-on workshops and intimate one-on-one sessions, ranging from trauma-informed bodywork and qi activation to somatic therapy. As night falls, the energy