Joycelyn Yeow

October’s rolling in strong, and it’s not just Halloween that’s creeping up. This weekend, swing by Sunday Mess at Dempsey Hill, where little ones can get creative with oil pastel drawing, balloon sculpting and other hands-on crafts. Over at the Asian Civilisations Museum, game nights are in full swing – play mahjong, chess and weiqi with gamemasters. For something more zen, Gardens by the Bay is hosting a free wellness festival featuring sunset yoga sessions and more. Here are 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

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

It's Mid-Autumn Festival, meaning that the dazzling lights are up and mooncakes are served. This week, there's nowhere better to soak up the razzle dazzle than at Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown, where there are spectacular illuminations and cultural performances. Besides the Mid-Autumn celebrations, you can also dive into cinematic orchestral shows, nerdy stamp exhibitions, and even a one-night-only shebang with legendary songstress Mariah Carey. Here's all the best things to do this weekend.  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

Dempsey Hill has long been a go-to spot for café-hoppers, foodies and boutique shoppers alike. Adding to its charm is Sunday Mess, a one-day-only event that transforms Dempsey’s open-air car park into a playground filled with artsy experiences. Unwind at the Santai Lounge – as its name suggests, it’s the perfect spot to relax in a cosy setting and refuel with infused water before heading out to explore. Treat yourself to a 15-minute massage offered on a pay-as-you-wish basis, or get hands-on with activities like oil pastel drawing and balloon sculpting that are great for little ones too. Over at the activity lounge, you can also learn how to airbrush keychains, prints, lighters, clothing and more for free.

Furniture store Journey East is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a Vintage Fair on October 11 and 12, from 12pm to 6pm at its showroom. The birthday bash brings together a curated lineup of partners that embody all things retro – great for those on the hunt for one-of-a-kind vintage finds. Browse treasures from By My Old School, Five Stones Vintage, Eelloo Vintage, Herra Vintage, Chio Books, and Objects.re. While you’re shopping, refuel at the F&B booths – grab a coffee from Pick Me Up, sample pours at The Smallest Wine Fair, or treat yourself to freshly baked goods from Mother Dough Bakery.

Hands up if you were inspired by Beth Harmon from The Queen’s Gambit to pick up chess. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual learner, Knights at the Museum, an all-out celebration of chess culture organised by Aliwal Chess Club, is not to be missed. Challenge other players at LED chess tables or join open street chess blitz matches. Try your hand at chess pong to win prizes, or catch a live showdown featuring some of Singapore’s top players. As night falls from 7pm, the neon chess set comes alive, glowing under the night sky as live DJs spin tunes in the background. Don’t forget to complete the Let’s Play Photo Quest to redeem complimentary tea and churros from State of Affairs and Chulop! by The Syarifs.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to overlook our mental wellbeing. That’s where the Meuraki Genesis Village Festival comes in – a gentle reminder to rest, recharge and reconnect with yourself. Held at the Silver Garden in Gardens by the Bay, this gamified wellness festival features sunset yoga, guided meditations, sound healing sessions and more. You can also craft your own zen garden or join a feel-good coffee rave for an energy boost. Be sure to download the free Meuraki mobile app to take part in the eight-realm challenge across the festival grounds. Collect digital charms as you explore the festival, and you stand a chance to walk away with prizes like staycations and wellness experiences.

The spirit of play continues at the Asian Civilisations Museum. Following the launch of Let’s Play! The Art and Design of Asian Games, the museum rolls out Crossing Cultures at ACM: Ready, Set, Play!, inviting everyone to bring out their competitive streak. Take part in lively board game nights hosted by vendors like Origame, ToTheTable and Burnout Board Game, or bring your own favourites to share with fellow enthusiasts. There’ll also be dedicated chess and mahjong zones where you can learn the intricacies of each game or challenge grandmasters of chess, xiangqi and weiqi. Don’t miss the chance to customise your own mahjong tile and turn it into a sparkly keychain – who knows, it might even bring you luck at your next game.

Home-based cafés have been on the rise, with many embracing the idea of opening their doors to small, close-knit gatherings for coffee lovers. As part of OH! Open House’s HAN@Punggol, home café That Day At Home is inviting guests into their cosy space for an intimate afternoon of connection, conversation and good brews. Whether you’re team coffee or matcha, it’s an organic way to meet and socialise with fellow Punggol residents. The open house takes place at 409B Northshore Drive on October 12, from 2pm to 4pm. As the space is snug, RSVPs are required and slots are limited. Complimentary light bites will be provided, and of course, you can also purchase That Day At Home’s handcrafted drinks to sip as you mingle.  There’s also the upcoming Open House with Wander Bites on October 18 to look forward to. Held at 445B Punggol Point Cove, this event is where you can try fresh bread and pastries from Wander Bites’ as you befriend neighbours. 

Presented by Half, a local wellness-based platform, the Museum of Hidden Objects and Feelings invites visitors to slow down and reflect on the quieter parts of themselves. The exhibition unfolds across eight interactive booths, featuring deeply personal items such as an artist’s old sketchbook or a childhood keepsake. Each object carries a story, offering a glimpse into the emotions and experiences of its owner. Through these everyday items, the museum encourages connection – whether that’s finding resonance in someone else’s lived experience or gaining fresh perspective on how objects can anchor memory and meaning. Visitors are also invited to contribute their own stories – simply upload a photo of your chosen item along with a short write-up via the submission link. Submissions may be displayed as part of the museum, and yes, you can remain anonymous. 

Jointly organised by the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) and the Singapore Chinese Orchestra, the annual Mid-Autumn Family Fun returns to the SCCC Conference Hall from October 4 to 5. The programme is packed with activities and performances designed for all ages. On the rooftop, you’ll find a whimsical installation of five larger-than-life bunnies caught in a series of playful poses – a great spot for photo ops. Over at the F&B stations, tuck into mooncake tastings, discover the art of traditional tea preparation, and learn the elegant Song-style technique of whisking tea. Get hands-on with craft workshops too, where you can make your own herbal fragrance sachets using edible Chinese medicinal herbs or create tea-scented, mooncake-shaped soaps with the kids. There are also lantern-decorating sessions, festive games, and plenty of live performances to enjoy, from energetic drumming and Chinese acrobatics to storytelling sessions and kid-friendly cross-talk sketches. Plus, you can also use your SG Culture Pass credits for the ticketed programmes.

New Bahru has quickly cemented itself as one of Singapore’s coolest new hangouts, thanks to its steady stream of buzzy pop-ups and activations – from the Gustaf Westman x Ikea pop-up to its Extra Curious Activities fairs. If you missed the previous editions, don’t let the next one pass you by. This round is themed Pit Stop, a playful nod to the Singapore F1 Grand Prix. New Bahru has crowned it as a place to “pull in, refuel your senses and set off with fresh discoveries”. Over 70 local brands and creators will be in the mix, spanning F&B, retail, wellness and more. Among the highlights are Café Nesuto’s delicious pastries, Moom Health’s supplements, quirky creations from Plook Plook Studio, scents by Scent Journer, and bold t-shirt designs from Tell Your Children. Beyond shopping and eating, you’ll also find art installations, DIY leather bag charm workshops and even F1 racing simulator experiences to rev up the adrenaline.

Japanese music fans are in for a treat as Avex Music Night is back – and the best part is that it’s completely free. For one night only, Suntec Plaza will transform into a live stage, featuring a line-up of rising Japanese acts. Catch indie rock outfit muque, boy band Wolf Howl Harmony, and solo performers KeNN and Tomonari Sora bringing their catchy tunes to Singapore. The concert is free-standing, so you’ll want to head down early if you’re gunning for a spot close to the stage. No registration is required – just turn up and get ready to dance the night away.

As the countdown to the F1 Grand Prix weekend ramps up, Aperol is hosting a one-night-only race party at Nova, Singapore’s highest rooftop bar. Groove to nu-disco beats from Ice Cream Sundays DJ duo Bongomann b2b Toppings and DJ Chucheewa, as you sip on free-flow Aperol Spritz and soft drinks and nibble on gourmet canapés to keep your energy levels high. The fun doesn’t end there – challenge your friends to party games and strike a pose at the photobooths to commemorate the night.

For its eighth edition, Objectifs’ Women in Film and Photography takes on the theme What We Carry – a layered exploration of self-identity, choices and belonging, and a chance to consider what we might need to release in order to move forward. Artists from across Southeast Asia, South Asia and East Asia present works that draw from their lived experiences, introspective perspectives and personal interpretations of the theme – prompting audiences to reflect on the burdens, memories and connections we hold on to. The programme includes screenings of A Quiet Load, Camp! Along the Mekong River, and Carnival of Solitude: The World of Qiu Miaojin. Beyond the screen, you can also take part in hands-on workshops to learn intricate paper-crafting techniques and drafting cartographies, or join masterclasses on visual storytelling through photography, where you’ll even have the chance to develop your own photo book.

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

Ah, airports. They can spark excitement, anxiety, or even sadness, depending on why you’re flying. That’s why excellent customer care and helpful airport staff are so important – they can make all the difference in easing any travel stress. Curious which airports are considered the friendliest? Airport Parking and Hotels analysed thousands of Google reviews to find out which airports earn the highest praise for their staff. This was no easy task. Over 71,000 Google reviews were examined, shared by travellers who had visited more than 120 airports worldwide, offering plenty of first-hand insight. While Google reviews are generally honest and unbiased, it’s always worth taking some with a pinch of salt. So, which airport came out on top? Taiwan’s Taoyuan International Airport leads the list, with 73.6% of reviews highlighting positive staff experiences. This isn’t too surprising, given Taiwanese culture is widely regarded as polite, friendly and hospitable. Common words used to describe staff include ‘friendly’, ‘helpful’ and ‘efficient’ – exactly the kind of customer service any traveller hopes for. Other Asian airports to make the list include Japan’s Narita International Airport in third place and South Korea’s Jeju International Airport in eighth. Surprisingly, Singapore’s Jewel Changi Airport ranks only 17th, despite repeatedly being crowned the world’s best airport. Guess there’s always some room for improvement, right?  Top 10 friendliest airports in the world:  Taoyuan

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