Joycelyn Yeow

It's officially spooky season, which means this weekend is packed with Halloween parties and events. Dress up in your most creative outfit for sky-high parties, eerie behind-the-scenes tours, or wholesome trick-or-treating trails across the island. If you want to skip the scares, there's lots more to tune into, including free music event Baybeats, a lazy sunday market at RASA Space, and an immersive nature-themed film festival. Scroll down for all the best things to do this weekend.  RECOMMENDED: New openings and attractions in Singapore in 2025 and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

As we turn the page from October to November, the events calendar heats up with tons of exciting events to tease all the senses. This week, blockbuster art events like Singapore Biennale kicks off with thought-provoking artworks sprawling across downtown and the heartlands; Baybeats jazzes things up with free music shows by the water featuring some of the best acts from Indonesia, South Korea, the Philippines, and more; award-winning animations light up the screen at Cartoons Underground; while rare and premium spirits take over at Sake Matsuri. Good luck (and have fun) packing all this and more into your calendar – scroll down to start planning.  RECOMMENDED: The 101 best things to do in Singapore and New attractions in Singapore in 2025    

Like it or not, we’ve officially entered the spookiest season of the year. Thrilling events such as Haw Ror Villa and Halloween Horror Nights at USS are back, promising plenty of jumpscares to fill your calendar.  That being said, faint-hearted folks need not fret as there’s still plenty of non-horror activities to enjoy. Browse weekend markets like Glamorous Giving or peruse unique zines, photobooks and more at the Singapore Art Book Fair. Oktoberfest-themed festivities are also on the cards, including the colourful street celebrations at Lau Pa Sat and Haji Lane. Scroll on to discover the best things to do in Singapore this October. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Bencoolen and The best fish and chips in Singapore

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

Alice, the Queen of Hearts and the Mad Hatter have arrived on our shores, bringing the whimsical world of Wonderland along with them. If you haven’t already caught the show, now’s the time to gather the whole family and make your way to the Sands Theatre before it closes on October 26, 2025. Lewis Carroll’s beloved classic is reimagined in Cirque Alice – a dazzling spectacle that combines breathtaking circus artistry and storytelling. While the plot loosely follows the original tale, it adds a thrilling twist through gravity-defying aerial stunts, jaw-dropping contortion acts, playful puppetry and dance sequences. The music brings a modern touch too, featuring contemporary reinterpretations of classic Alice in Wonderland melodies.

With a name like Cleaning Day!, you know it’s not your usual art fair. Held at the Aliwal Arts Centre, this one-day event brings together a vibrant mix of art, food and hands-on workshops in a curated line-up featuring some of Singapore’s creatives. The eclectic marketplace is filled with unique finds – from handmade jewellery to quirky prints. There’ll also be plenty of baked treats to snack on, courtesy of 222 Bakehouse, and fresh brews from Meadowbrew. Beyond shopping and snacking, Cleaning Day! offers visitors a chance to learn and connect with local professionals in the art scene. Join photography and filmography workshops, or sit in on sharing sessions by local musicians offering insights into their journeys. To top it all off, there’ll be live performances by homegrown acts including Haru, Bellied Star, sub:shaman, deformed, Nosedive, monda(e) and Alicia DC.

If you’ve been a goody two shoes all your life, The Serangoon Gardens Techno Party of 1993 offers a taste of what it’s like to live a little dangerously. And if you were once part of Singapore’s wilder crowd, this production might just strike a familiar chord. Set in 1993, the play follows teenager Candice as she dives into the gritty underbelly of Singapore’s nightlife in the ’90s. Think punk-fuelled mosh pits, illicit parties, police raids and an encounter with a charming American boy – complete with a stash of happy pills. Produced by local theatre company Wild Rice, The Serangoon Gardens Techno Party of 1993 is bold, provocative and surprisingly introspective. Beneath the chaos and rebellion lies a sharp commentary on youth, freedom and the cost of defiance. With its mature themes and strong content, this one’s recommended for audiences aged 18 and above.

If you’ve already made your way through Singapore’s major museums, like the National Museum of Singapore, ArtScience Museum and New Art Museum Singapore, it might be time to explore something different. Head to Opera Gallery Singapore to catch The Singapore Masters Show, which runs from now until November 3, 2025. The exhibition features works by 25 modern and contemporary masters, spanning genres from impressionism to contemporary figuration. On display are paintings, sculptures and mixed-media pieces created between 1887 and 2022, offering a look into the evolution of artistic movements from the 19th to 21st century.

Cat lovers may have to wait for the cat distribution system to work its magic, but dog lovers can look forward to SOSD’s upcoming adoption drive this October to get a pup. Happening at Guoco Midtown 2 on October 19, the event promises an afternoon filled with furry love and wagging tails. Meet adorable pups at the adoption drive, and if one of them steals your heart, you might just find yourself a new best friend. As always, do take the time to carefully consider the responsibilities that come with welcoming a pet into your home. Around the space, you’ll also find booths selling pet treats, accessories and other essentials, plus a photobooth where you can snap keepsake pictures with your new companion. There’ll also be insightful talks where you can learn more about Singapore Specials and the work SOSD does for the local dog community.

The last Saturday of every month is always a lively one at The Singapore Edition, as that’s when the Disco Brunch takes over from 12pm to 3pm. The upcoming retro-themed edition this weekend is not to be missed, so come dressed in your best ’70s glam. Tuck into an indulgent spread featuring decadent desserts, live cooking stations and hearty sharing platters. It’s also a boozy affair, with free-flow wines, handcrafted cocktails and disco punch bowls to keep the good vibes flowing. Setting the mood is DJ Aldrink, spinning a groovy mix of soul, disco and funk beats, while roller-skate dancers glide through the space, bringing live entertainment to you as you feast and unwind.

Whether or not you’ve been to Borneo, chances are you’ve heard of its famed dishes such as Sarawak laksa and kolo mee. If you’re keen to savour some of the region’s delicacies, good news – the Sarawak Mega Fair is bringing over 50 vendors together to showcase the country's most iconic and hard-to-find dishes. This is your opportunity to sample Umai jellyfish, Tuak rice wine, and many more. You can even snag D Mummy’s Recipe’s premium chocolate treats made from locally sourced cocoa beans. The Sarawak Mega Fair takes place at Suntec City’s Atrium at Towers 1 and 2 and the Convention Centre from October 16 to 19, running daily from 11am to 10pm.

Celebfest October brings together food, shopping and star power all under one roof. Taking place at Suntec City from October 17 to 19, this mega event will feature over 200 vendors, offering everything from elegant shawls and luxurious perfumes to children’s vitamin supplements. Food lovers are in for a treat too – Golden Bao returns with its beloved beef roti, while Satay Ummi serves up smoky skewers. Round off your feast with a salted caramel matcha latte from Imagine Iced Coffee. But of course, the spotlight shines on the stars themselves. Some of the biggest names from Singapore and Malaysia will be gracing the event, including Anna Jobling, Zoey Rahman, Mimi Lana, Bella Astillah, Fizz Fairuz and Almy Nadia, Hariz Hamdan, and even the cast of Badak. There will also be meet-and-greet sessions with the cast of Mandul Bukan Pilihan. Fans of Malaysia’s rising M-Pop boy band Alpha can look forward to their Celebfest debut, complete with live performances on stage. 

It’s a day of booze and furry fun at The Botanist Picnic Pawradise, happening at CHIJMES on October 18. Set on the pet-friendly outdoor main lawn, the event blends craft gin and pet-friendly activities for both you and your four-legged companion. Take part in DIY workshops, including a potting session where you can plant one of the actual herbs or flowers used in The Botanist Gin, and a DIY G&T buffet bar where you can mix and create four different gin and tonics. Then, head over to the caricature drawing booth to get a live portrait with your furkid. There’ll also be plenty of booths selling pet treats, accessories and more, with vendors such as Four Paws Pantry, Dear Hooman and RuffBandits ensuring your pets are spoiled with goodies.

Korea’s film industry has long captured our attention, with critically-acclaimed titles such as Parasite and Train to Busan becoming favourites amongst many. And beyond these movies, there’s also more to discover at the Korean Film Festival, taking place at Golden Village Suntec City and *Scape from October 16 to 26. This year’s edition marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Korea, inviting audiences to experience the creativity and depth of Korean storytelling through a curated line-up of films. Screenings are free with registration, with featured titles including No Other Choice, Hear Me: Our Summer, Victory, Three Sisters, One Win, Yadang: The Snitch, Somebody, By The Stream and Victory. There’ll also be a special outdoor screening of The Classic at *Scape, great for enjoying a film under the open sky. 

Fans of The Little Prince and French animation in general will be delighted by the Animation Nation, running from October 10 to 19. Presented by the Singapore Film Society and the Institut Francais, this celebration of animated storytelling features screenings of A Magnificent Life, Songbird’s Secret, Ernest and Celestine: A Trip to Gibberitia, Maya, Give Me a Title, and Heart of Darkness.  While these films are great for the little ones, their imaginative stories and beautiful visuals will charm adults too, making it a great outing for the whole family. After selected screenings, there’ll also be hands-on workshops where you can create your own artwork inspired by the films and bring home a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Singapore’s music scene may have been quieter in the early 2000s, but it’s come a long way since then. With a wave of new talents emerging over the years, Homegrown Festival celebrates the best of local music and creativity with an exciting line-up of live performances. This free festival is the perfect place to discover fresh sounds or catch your favourite homegrown acts on stage. Performing live are Heema Izatti, Krysta Joy, TP Music Vox, Thaarmin, Xena Giam, YAO, Elvern, FVISION, Houston Fire Support, lewloh, Sezairi, and MDC artistes Rines, Dominic Chin and Gail Belmonte. Beyond the music, there’s plenty to do between sets. Try your hand at jagua tattoo art, get a caricature portrait drawn, sit in for a tarot reading, or design your own bouquet. For something more playful, join a round of air hockey, foosball, basketball toss, or relive the nostalgia with retro arcade games.

Hanoi is known for its colourful culture, mouth-watering street food and a distinctive blend of Vietnamese and French architecture that makes wandering its streets a delight. Adding to its list of must-see landmarks is the Isola della Musica – the city’s striking new floating opera house. Located on Hanoi’s scenic West Lake, the Isola della Musica is designed by renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano in collaboration with PTW Architects. The opera house draws inspiration from the local oyster farmers who live around the lake, harvesting freshwater oysters that produce pearls in soft shades of pink, orange and white. This influence is beautifully captured in the building’s iridescent facade, which shimmers like mother-of-pearl. Depending on the weather and light conditions, the exterior subtly shifts in colour, while the structure’s elegant curves evoke the form of an oyster shell. Inside, the opera house features two grand auditoriums with a capacity of over 3,200 seats, alongside a museum and event spaces that will host concerts, opera and ballet performances and award ceremonies. The Isola della Musica is set to open its doors in 2027. Did you know? These are the best hotels in Asia in 2025 according to Condé Nast Traveller Plus: India just opened the world’s highest road in Ladakh – and the views are unreal Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox.

Frequent travellers are no strangers to the growing trend of countries introducing pre-travel authorisation requirements – a move already adopted by destinations such as New Zealand, the US, Canada and the UK. Joining the list is Japan, which has recently announced its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Before you start panicking, here’s all you need to know about Japan’s upcoming ETA scheme. What is the ETA? The ETA is essentially a pre-screening system that grants travellers digital permission to enter a country. It’s typically required for short-term visits, and those who already hold a valid long-term visa will not need to apply for an ETA.  Who is required to get Japan’s ETA? At present, citizens from 74 countries will be required to obtain Japan’s ETA, including travellers from visa-exempt nations. Countries in Asia include Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand. I hold a visa-free passport. Do I still need to apply for Japan’s ETA for short-term travels?  Yes. Even if you hold a visa-free passport – like Singapore’s – you’ll still need to apply for the ETA. Do note that this is not a replacement for a visa; travellers planning to stay in Japan for longer periods must still obtain the appropriate visa. How do I apply for Japan’s ETA? While Japan’s official ETA website has yet to launch, the application process is expected to be similar to those of the US and UK. Applicants will likely need to provide details such as tr

China is home to many awe-inspiring architectural landmarks – from Chongqing East Station, the largest train station in the world, to Dujiangyan Zhongshuge, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Now, the country has added yet another record-breaker to its list: the world’s largest physical bookstore. Recently opened in Shenzhen’s Bao’an district, The Eyes of the GBA spans a staggering 131,000 square metres – roughly the size of 18 football fields, or nearly the entire Louvre Museum in Paris. Inside this colossal space lies a treasure trove of over 100,000 books across a variety of genres including fiction, non-fiction, art, history and children’s literature. The venue also features an alfresco rooftop garden, themed reading zones, a theatre and a museum that regularly hosts exhibitions – such as the recent Mural Masterpieces of the Tang Dynasty, a collaboration with the Shaanxi History Museum. But The Eyes of the GBA isn’t just about the books. There’s also a tech zone where visitors can explore interactive AI installations, drones and other cutting-edge gadgets. Did you know? These 3 Asian countries experience the most rainfall in the world Plus: Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in Belitung: A peaceful yet stunning coastal destination in Indonesia Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox.

Fans of syncopated rhythms, deep basslines and fast-paced beats will be familiar with English DJ Sammy Virji. Whether seasoned ravers or newcomers to the scene, fans can look forward to seeing him live on his upcoming Asia tour, with stops in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Kuala Lumpur this November and December. Sammy rose to prominence following his viral DJ Mag Set in 2023, and has since released hits such as If U Need It, Nostalgia, and Cops and Robbers. He has been hailed as a pioneer in reviving the UK garage music scene, thanks to his bouncy beats, chopped-up vocals and seamless fusion of house, EDM and dubstep. This tour marks a milestone for the DJ, bringing his UK garage revival to Asia for the first time. Known for his electrifying live shows, his sets are a whirlwind of high-energy tracks, perfectly timed drops and crowd-hyping interludes.  Here are DJ Sammy Virji's Asia tour dates:  Kuala Lumpur Date and time: November 28, 2025 from 7pm to 12am  Venue: Rexkl Ticket prices: From MYR 250 at Megatix Singapore Date and time: November 29, 2025 from 9pm to 3am  Venue: Glass Dome Ticket prices: From SGD 108 at Megatix Hong Kong Date and time: December 12, 2025 from 9pm to 5am  Venue: Pier 1929 Ticket prices: From HKD 280 at Megatix Sign up for pre-sale tickets on October 14, 6pm, which go live from October 16, 6pm. General admission tickets are available from October 17, 6pm.  Did you know? Rolling Loud Festival debuts in India this November Plus: The best concerts and tours

Hotels are a big part of the travel experience, and sometimes, we just want to splurge and book the best of the best. If that sounds like you, take note: Condé Nast Traveler has just released its list of the Best Hotels in Asia 2025, and it's a handy reference for when you're planning your next getaway. As with previous editions of the Readers' Choice Awards, the results are based entirely on votes from the publication's readership, and this particular list comes from UK readers. The list covers the best hotels across the globe, including the UK, Europe and South America, but we'll be zooming in on Asia's finest stays. While the list does not detail winners for every country in Asia, it does highlight a few standout properties across the region. In China, The Sukhothai Shanghai takes the crown. This luxury, contemporary boutique hotel sits in the heart of Jing'an, one of Shanghai's busiest shopping districts, making it a popular choice among both leisure and business travelers. Down south, The Upper House in Hong Kong holds the championship title – and it's no surprise, considering it also made it into the World's 50 Best Hotels list. Over in Japan, Park Hyatt Kyoto stands out for its seamless blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Japanese design elements. And representing Singapore, the iconic Raffles Singapore comes out on top, known for its colonial-era grandeur and impeccable service. For Southeast Asia, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok takes the number one spot with

India’s taking road-tripping to new heights – quite literally. Previously, the Umling La mountain pass held the Guinness World Record as the highest motorable (or driveable) road in the world at 19,024 feet. But as of October 2025, India has outdone itself once again with the completion of the Mig La Pass in Ladakh, now officially the world’s highest drivable road. Constructed by the Border Roads Organisation, this impressive feat stands at a staggering 19,400 feet above sea level, surpassing Umling La by nearly 400 feet. Building this high-altitude route was no small task. Engineers and workers endured extreme weather conditions and dangerously thin air throughout the project.  The new route connects Hanle village to the Line of Actual Control, providing a crucial lifeline for residents of this remote region who are often cut off during harsh winter months. With the road now open, transporting essential goods and supplies between border communities will become significantly easier and safer. But beyond its logistical importance, the Mig La Pass is also expected to become a magnet for thrill-seeking travellers and adventure enthusiasts. The drive offers surreal views of Ladakh’s rugged terrain – we’re talking vast desert valleys, snow-dusted peaks and endless skies that stretch far beyond the horizon. Those brave enough to take on the journey will not only be traversing one of the most challenging routes on Earth but also quite literally driving among the clouds. Did you know

Whether you love or loathe the wet weather, it’s part and parcel of Mother Nature and something we can’t quite escape. If you’ve ever wondered which countries experience the most downpour, consider your curiosity satisfied – publishing company WorldAtlas has compiled rainfall data and released a list of the top 10 rainiest countries in the world, with three countries in Asia making the cut. Topping the list is Colombia, with an estimated 3,240mm of annual rainfall, thanks to its equatorial convection and geography. Next is Sao Tome and Principe, followed by Papua New Guinea in third place. And as mentioned earlier, three Asian countries also feature in the ranking. Asia’s rainiest countries Malaysia (#8) Coming in eighth place is Malaysia, which sees an average annual rainfall of 2,875mm. The country’s location near the equator subjects it to heavy rainfall throughout the year. In East Malaysia, its proximity to the Philippines and typhoons crossing the South China Sea also contribute to the wetter conditions.  For those who might need a quick geography refresher – equatorial regions are typically hot and humid, causing large amounts of water to evaporate from dense rainforests and nearby water bodies. This warm, moist air rises, cools, and condenses into clouds, resulting in frequent rain. Best time to visit: Malaysia typically experiences two monsoon seasons – from November to March and May to September. It’s best to avoid travelling during these months and plan your visit

As a marathoner, you’ve probably heard of (or even dreamed of completing) the legendary ‘Big Five’ marathon races across Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London and New York City. But for those based in Asia, there’s a world-class alternative much closer to home. Enter the UTMB World Series’ Trail of the Kings – Lake Toba, a brand-new trail event in Indonesia. Marking UTMB’s first foray into Indonesia, this trail celebrates not only the country’s spectacular landscapes but also its rich Bataknese culture. Its name, Trail of the Kings, pays homage to the ancestral kings of the region. The course winds through the rugged terrain of Lake Toba, Indonesia’s largest volcanic lake, surrounded by dense tropical forests, steep ascents and descents, and sweeping ridge lines. Runners will traverse trails that skirt the crater rim, offering panoramic views of turquoise waters framed by sheer cliffs and lush highlands – it’s the sort of scenery that tempts you to pause mid-race. Participants can choose from five distances: 5km, 10km, 28km, 60km and 100km. There’s also a kid-friendly course designed for young runners aged 7 to 12. When is Trail of the Kings - Lake Toba? The event takes place on October 17, 18 and 19, 2025. Where is Trail of the Kings - Lake Toba held? The entire running trail is set on the volcanic island Samosir Island, in Lake Toba.  How do I get to Trail of the Kings - Lake Toba? The two nearest airports are Kualanamu International Airport and Sisingamangaraja XII International

Each year, the Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix draws major anticipation – not just for the thrilling on-track drama, but also for the star-studded entertainment line-up that comes with it. Taking place from October 3 to 5, 2025, the annual event continues to bring world-class performances to Singapore alongside the race weekend. Back in February, organisers announced that Korean soloist G-Dragon and Grammy Award-winning legend Elton John will headline this year’s edition. Since then, more names have been added to the list.  On October 3, expect performances from CL, Putri Ariani and Oakë. The following night, Foo Fighters, Alan Walker, Tom Grennan, The Lathums, Babymetal and Crowded House will take the stage. Rounding off the weekend on October 5 are The Wombats and The Smashing Pumpkins. Mexican DJ duo Le Twins and New York-based group Indo Warehouse are slated to perform on October 3 and 4, while Korean DJ Hanna will make appearances on both October 4 and 5. More top-tier acts are set to be announced in the coming weeks, so stay tuned to our page for more updates. Tickets can be purchased via the Singapore Grand Prix website. You can try resellers like Viagogo or Stubhub too. READ MORE Go glamping in air-conditioned safari tents at a new campsite in Mandai Wildlife Reserve Singapore’s highest Cantonese fine-dining restaurant opens on MBS' 55th floor with panoramic views Viral Chinese teahouse in Singapore has ‘floating stream’ table where items are delive

Trains are no longer just about getting from point A to point B – they’ve become journeys in themselves. Beyond the cushy seats and on-board entertainment, it’s often the scenery rolling past your window that defines the experience. Travel platform Agoda has pulled together a shortlist of Asia’s most scenic train journeys, each offering views that make the longer travel times more than worthwhile. It’s a compact list of just five services, but every one is a standout. Topping it is India’s Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s also known as the Toy Train. Running through tea gardens and the mountain landscapes between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, this train journey offers breathtaking glimpses of the Eastern Himalayas. Second on the list is Japan’s Sagano Romantic Train – hardly surprising, given the country’s numerous rail services. What sets this one apart is its open-air carriages, which let you soak in the forests and valleys of Kyoto on a short yet stunning 25-minute ride. Indonesia’s Argo Wilis Train also gets recognition on the list. Connecting Surabaya and Bandung, the journey treats passengers to views of volcanic peaks and rice paddies, with giant side and ceiling windows providing sweeping panoramas.  The ultra-luxurious Eastern and Oriental Express comes next. Winding through Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, it combines lush rainforest vistas with plush amenities – including a Dior Spa wellness cabin. Read our full experience here. R

The name might be a bit of a mouthful, but what it boils down to is a brand-new cultural tourism landmark. The Hepo Ethnic Handicraft Art, Cultural Tourism, and Sports Integration Park has officially opened in Baiyu County, western Sichuan, offering travellers a mix of craft traditions, cultural showcases and local experiences. For the uninitiated, Baiyu County sits on the border of Sichuan and the Tibet Autonomous Region, and is steeped in Tibetan Buddhist heritage. The area is home to breathtaking sights such as Baiyu Temple, Yaqing Monastery and Lansong Lake, as well as the scenic Ganzi–Baiyu Highway, a popular drive for those chasing mountain vistas. Among the park’s completed facilities are the Hepo Ethnic Handicraft Culture Street, a Cultural Performance Centre, and most notably, the Tibetan Metalwork Museum. This museum highlights a craft tradition dating back to the seventh century, showcasing intricately made Tibetan knives, horse gear and Buddhist ritual objects.  More amenities, including restaurants, accommodations, retail and entertainment, are still in development, positioning the park as a future all-in-one cultural hub. And with nearby Hepo Handicraft City already recognised as one of China’s 100 Small Cities Worth Visiting, this new park is set to draw both domestic and international attention. Did you know? Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in Belitung: A peaceful yet stunning coastal destination in Indonesia Plus: These Asian cities are home to the world’s friendlie

It looks like India has plenty to look forward to as the year winds down. Not only is the Rolling Loud Festival making its debut in November, but a brand new gateway is also set to open – Noida International Airport. You might be thinking, another airport? But this one is poised to be Asia’s largest, designed to eventually handle up to 70 million passengers annually. Located in Jewar, the airport spans 1,334 hectares, with its development divided into four phases. The first phase includes a 3,900-metre runway and a terminal with capacity for 12 million passengers, with at least ten cities connected from the airport. Much of the core infrastructure is already in place, including the runway and air traffic control tower, baggage systems, and aerobridges. Airlines such as IndiGo and Akasa Air have confirmed they will begin operations at the airport, with pending routes to Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and more. Beyond passenger flights, the airport is expected to become a major cargo hub for northern India, thanks to its proximity to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and Dedicated Freight Corridors. Originally slated to open in 2024 but delayed by the pandemic, the airport will now be inaugurated on October 30, with commercial services commencing before the year’s end. Full completion across all phases is expected by 2050. Did you know? Cambodia’s new $2 billion airport opens with nature-themed architecture and a giant golden Buddha statue Plus: Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in Belitung: A pe