Joycelyn Yeow

We're bidding August goodbye with a lively line-up this weekend. Drop by the one-day-only Queer Sunday Market where you can get live portrait drawings and oracle card readings, browse quirky 2D art at a Japanese hair salon, or catch an insightful local play about migrant workers. And if food is on your mind, you'll want to swing by Don’t Runaway’s pop-up at Joo Chiat, where free burgers await. 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

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

From family-friendly outdoor parties to indie music festivals, Singapore is buzzing with fun this week. Stock up on outdoor essentials at The Outdoor Fair, browse quirky SG-themed finds at Quan Shui Wet Market’s SG60 Bazaar, or bring the little ones along for a day out at the 16 Dempsey Bloc Party. And if food is your love language, the Thai Supermarket is serving up new stalls and SG60-exclusive treats you won’t want to miss. 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    

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

In Singapore, Hari Raya Haji will be observed on June 7, 2025. Also known as Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, it is one of the two most significant celebrations in Islam, the other being Hari Raya Aidilfitri, which marks the end of Ramadan. This occasion commemorates the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia – a journey that every Muslim who is physically and financially able is expected to undertake at least once in their lifetime. Recognised as the fifth pillar of Islam, this occasion holds deep spiritual importance in the Muslim faith. RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to 2025 public holidays in Singapore and The best halal restaurants and cafés in Singapore

Mark your calendars – Father’s Day is happening on June 15 this year, and it's time to honour the man who probably says he doesn’t need anything but secretly enjoys a good surprise. Skip the clichéd ‘World’s Best Dad’ mugs and those last-minute gift cards. From elevated wardrobe staples to hands-on coffee roasting experiences, here are some of the best gifts to consider getting him this Father’s Day. RECOMMENDED: The best Father’s Day meals in Singapore 2025 and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

May is shaping up to be an exciting month, with Polling Day kicking things off and Mother’s Day just around the corner. There are also events and activities to look forward to – from the iconic The Phantom of the Opera to the roar-some Jurassic World: The Experience. Plus, international stars like Taeyeon and The Click Five will be lighting up our stages. Here are the best things to do in Singapore this May.  RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore

Weekend markets are aplenty in Singapore, but here’s one more to add to your list: Queer Sunday Market. Hosted by Proud Spaces at 243 Alexandra Road, this one-day-only affair takes place on August 31 from 11am to 6pm, bringing together a mix of local queer artists and creatives. Get an astrology or oracle card reading, tune your chakras with sound healing, or browse through queer books, art prints and zines. You can also sit for a live portrait drawing, shop cute stickers, pick up handmade beaded bracelets for some new arm candy, or get pet accessories for your furkid. The Proofing Ground will also be on site to keep you fuelled with sourdough bakes and freshly brewed coffee.

A hair salon might not be the first place you’d expect to find an art exhibition – but The Fluxus House isn’t your typical salon. The Japanese hair studio is wrapping up its latest showcase with Fun Shyt, the grand finale to its two ongoing August exhibitions, Flat Is Fun and Fine Shyt Type Shit. The closing party brings together 83 local and international artists, illustrators and designers, including Singaporean illustrator Leeyan Lyrael, Japanese artist Jessie Katsukin Takamura, and Filipino-Chinese artist Jewell Dalina. It’s your chance to admire a range of colourful, vibrant and delightfully quirky 2D artwork for free. The evening also features live beats by DJ Hojyn, a performance art piece by Falsampah, and a high-energy krump dance showcase from The Worst Generation.

We often see migrant workers hard at work, but rarely do we glimpse the lives they lead beyond the surface. The Migrant Writers of Singapore, a collective of migrant literature enthusiasts, is shining a light on these untold stories with The Homecoming – a play that explores the challenges of living far from family, and the hopes that keep migrant workers going.  Presented through intimate conversations and monologues, the play captures raw emotions and human experiences that are too often overlooked. The play is directed by Audrey Teong, featuring cast members Ade Rayani, Christine Alcabasa, Laila Tadile, Jacquelyn Arindon, Noor Jannah Jani and Nelie Bautista. 

Dempsey Hill is always worth a visit for its restaurants and laid-back charm, and Air CCCC is one of its standout spots. Famed for its hearty bites and sprawling lawn that’s hosted countless parties, the restaurant is now rolling out Circular Campus – a weekly series of programmes open to all. The series kicks off on August 31 with Beam Yoga, where you can take your pick between Vinyasa Flow or Submersion yoga, held alfresco in Air’s outdoor space. For a full wellness treat, opt for the $22 Wellness Bundle, which comes with a breakfast plate, pastry and a beverage to refuel after your session.

Gillman Barracks has long cemented its reputation as a hub for contemporary art. Now, the arts enclave is celebrating its 13th anniversary with a line-up of exhibition openings, artist talks by both local and international names, creative workshops, and live performances. Participating galleries include OTA Fine Arts, Sundaram Tagore Gallery, Richard Koh Fine Art, Yeo Workshop, Mizuma Gallery, FOST Gallery, The Columns Gallery and ShanghART. Holders of the Patrons’ Pass can also join the exclusive Art and Sake Tour, where each exhibition is paired with a curated sake tasting.

Free. Sandwiches. Yes, you read that right. Don’t Runaway is popping up at 320 Joo Chiat from August 29, running Fridays through Sundays – and they’re giving away free burgers. Launched by The Platform Collective, the same folks behind Champion Bolo Bun and Dickson Nasi Lemak, Don’t Runaway was inspired by its founder’s time in the US. The idea of it was to combine the classic American sandwich, but give it a tasty twist made for Asian tastes. The pop-up menu switches up weekly so things never get stale. Options include Jack and Loaded, a plant-based number with smoky jackfruit chilli; Beef Me Up, stacked with brisket, peanut butter and spicy chilli crunch; The Side Chick, pairing smoked chicken with creamy white sauce and pumpkin seed dukkah; and Mortadel-lah, layered with mortadella, cheese, salsa verde and a yuzukosho tang. To snag your freebie, head down to the pop-up, download the Don’t Runaway app, sign up for free membership and flash your in-app QR code. That’s it. You’ll walk away with a free sandwich and Coke. The first 20 customers each day also score exclusive merch, including keychains, iron-on patches and Don’t Runaway tote bags.

The SG60 celebrations aren’t slowing down just yet. Quan Shui Wet Market is keeping the party going with its SG60 Bazaar at 50 Tagore Lane, bringing together over 27 local vendors spanning F&B, retail and interactive experiences. Each stall is putting its own spin on the SG60 festivities – including Fossa Chocolate and its quirky Singapore-inspired flavours such as Bak Kut Teh and Hae Bee Hiam Shrimp Roll chocolate, and Clean Folks Club with handmade soaps shaped like ang ku kueh and iced gems, our nostalgic childhood treat. The fun doesn’t stop there. Snap a picture at the hawker centre-themed photo booth, or test your wits at Booth 21’s PSLE Math Challenge – simply answer three questions correctly to win prizes from participating vendors. Animal lovers can also look forward to a special meet-and-greet with a therapy horse from Equal. For a $20 donation, you and up to three friends can interact with one of Equal’s miniature horses, with all proceeds going directly to the organisation.

The Dempsey area may be known for its fine dining, but this Saturday the car park is where the real party’s at. The Pantry, Kids Space and 5210pm are teaming up to present the 16 Dempsey Bloc Party – a six-hour jamboree of fun for both kids and kidults. And yes, it’s pet-friendly too, so bring your furkid along for the ride. There’ll be live DJ sets to keep the vibes high, alongside local vendors offering handmade ceramics, clothing and more. Sip your way through a selection of wines, including honey wines, and tuck into delicious bites prepared by The Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar. Those feeling bold can get inked with a quirky design by Daphne Flowers – if you’re ready for the commitment, that is. Little ones won’t be left out either as they can try potato scarf printing or get messy with some painting fun while the adults soak up the fun vibes.

Singapore’s music scene turns up the volume with Clang!, a Chinese indie music festival taking over Pasir Panjang Power Station. Fans of alternative sounds can look forward to an immersive night of live music, with reverberating beats bouncing off the iconic venue’s walls. The line-up features Taipei acts Wendy Wander, Trash, Who Cares and Fumon, alongside DJ Tiko Disko. Beyond the music, festival-goers can join hands-on craft workshops, fuel up at food booths, and browse through zines and books for a dose of inspiration between sets.

Thai Supermarket is turning up the heat for SG60 with exclusive deals running till August 31 – plus the debut of two new food stalls. First up is Pad Pad Thai, serving authentic Thai street eats such as the beloved pad thai, spicy pad kee mao, and classic stir-fries with three spice levels to suit your tolerance. The second newcomer, Yum Yum Tod Tod, is a snack bar selling barbecue classics like moo ping skewers and crispy chicken skin. The stall will also be hosting a Thai Laksa Party this weekend, where you can choose between a creamy coconut-based soup or the punchier fermented fish sauce soup – complete with free-flow vegetables. To mark Singapore’s 60th birthday, the supermarket is rolling out a slew of promotions. This includes $0.60 mini boat noodles from Slurp Noodle Bar by Folks Collective, three XL kanom bueang for $6, and even a special Milo crunch crêpe in tribute to Singapore’s favourite drink. Pad Pad Thai will also be serving its signature pad thai at just $6.

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts – the third edition of The Outdoor Fair is here. This year’s event is the biggest yet, featuring over 55 local and international brands including Helinox, Fjällräven, Chums, Patagonia, Keen, Lowe Alpine, Snow Peak, Montane, BOLDR, Wilderness Wear, Nitecore, 8K Expeditions, Brompton, Izipizi, Hakuba Valley, and more. If you’ve been meaning to refresh your gear, now’s the perfect time as these brands will be offering event-exclusive offers too. Beyond the shopping, there will also be seven sharing sessions led by experts across alpine climbing, mountain biking and sea sports. Get insider guides to mountain biking trips, tips on outdoor photography, advice on skiing in the Japanese Alps...the list goes on.  Entry is free, but advance registration is required. All registered visitors will also stand a chance to win in the event’s lucky draw, with prizes including a trip to Everest Base Camp, ski lift passes to Hakuba Valley, outdoor gear and more.

Step into the world of heritage at A Date with Tradition, happening at the Stamford Arts Centre. As its name suggests, the event is all about celebrating Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry through hands-on workshops and lively performances. Catch live getai performances, Teochew opera showcases, shadow puppetry and more. Or, roll up your sleeves and join in the activities – try your hand at Indian woodblock printing, colour a huge mural, or even contribute to a large rangoli. And for a playful twist, challenge your friends to larger-than-life games of Five Stones and Hopscotch. If you’re keen to dive even deeper, sign up for the paid workshops where you can craft Chinese characters with gold-toned paper, create marble mini pots, or design floral-themed acrylic coasters.

When it comes to air travel, the journey often begins and ends at the airport – so whether you pass through a great or frustrating airport can make all the difference to your overall vacation. With this in mind, many airports worldwide have upgraded their facilities with cutting-edge technology, striking designs and a host of unique amenities for travellers to enjoy. Travel + Leisure has surveyed airports around the globe, and four airports in Asia have made the top 10 list of the World’s Best International Airports for 2025. Readers of Travel + Leisure were invited to vote based on several criteria, including ease of access, check-in efficiency, security, dining and shopping options, and overall airport design. Topping the list is Istanbul Airport in Turkey, followed by Singapore’s Changi Airport, which retained its second place position from last year. Voters praised Changi Airport’s stunning features, such as the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, making it a must-visit destination in its own right. Also featured in the top 10 are Hong Kong International Airport at sixth place, Haneda Airport at eighth and Incheon International Airport rounding out the list at tenth. Here are the top 10 best international airports in the world in 2025: Istanbul Airport Singapore Changi Airport Hamad International Airport Zayed International Airport Dubai International Airport Hong Kong International Airport Helsinki-Vantaa Airport Haneda Airport Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Ai

Many of us amateurs already find snapping the perfect sunset selfie a challenge. So imagine trying to capture a clear shot of a moving marine creature underwater. That's precisely why we leave it to the professionals to bring us these extraordinary glimpses of life beneath the waves. Oceanographic Magazine's Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 competition has once again delivered a stunning collection of images of the ocean and the lives within. Among this year's standout entries are a couple of breathtaking shots taken in Asia – proof of the region's rich marine biodiversity and natural beauty. Showcasing everything from vibrant coral reefs to elusive sea creatures, here are the finalist images taken in Asia: Fine Art Photographer of the Year     Photography: Luis Arpa Toribio This image of a young Pinnate Batfish in Indonesia was captured by Barcelona-based biologist and photographer Luis Arpa Toribio. Known for its jet-black body and almost neon-orange outline, the fish was sharply rendered using a slow shutter speed, snooted lighting, and deliberate camera panning – a technique Luis adopted to add a sense of motion and drama to the shot.     Photograph: Jade Hoksbergen Beneath the waves of the Tañon Strait in the Philippines, French-Taiwanese underwater photographer and artist Jade Hoksbergen captured this tiny young candy crab, measuring just a centimeter in size, perched delicately on a bed of pink coral.      Photograph: Hitomi Tsuchiya No, it's not a turtle floa

Indonesian rapper Rich Brian, formerly known as Rich Chigga, swiftly rose from viral internet sensation to become one of Asia’s most influential hip-hop artists. Renowned for his distinctive voice, sharp lyricism and genre-blending sound, he has since delivered multiple chart-topping tracks and collaborated with international stars such as Jackson Wang, Chungha and many others. His single Run It was even featured in Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Now, the talented rapper is set to bring his electrifying energy to stages across Asia with his much-anticipated tour, in celebration of the release of his latest album, Where Is My Head?, which dropped on August 15, 2025. Rich Brian’s 2025 Where is my head? tour dates:  November 29: Jakarta December 1: Taipei December 3: Singapore December 6: Hong Kong December 8: Manila December 11: Honolulu You may find tickets for Taipei, Singapore, and Manila here – stay tuned to the same page for more updates.  Did you know? Pharrell Williams and Nigo to open massive lifestyle hub in Tokyo inspired by Napa Valley 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 Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox.

Fans of good ol’ Maccas might’ve smelt this news from miles away – a McDonald’s-themed museum has opened in Shenzhen, marking the first of its kind in China and the fourth in the world. What awaits at this colossal, Happy Meal-inspired space? This six-storey museum pays homage to the fast-food giant’s rich history, showcasing a nostalgic mix of vintage Happy Meal toys, retro burger boxes, and limited-edition collaborations featuring the likes of Tom & Jerry, Hello Kitty and more. Spot statues of McDonald’s beloved mascots including the ever-jovial Ronald McDonald peppered around the museum, along with a replica of Iceland’s infamous “never rot” meal. All displays are labelled in Chinese, so you’ll want to keep a translation app handy as you wander through the exhibits.  Beyond the sea of McDonald’s memorabilia, you can also pose at the dedicated photo booth or tuck into fries, wings and more at the on-site dining area. So, why Shenzhen? The city holds a special place in McDonald’s history as it was home to the first Chinese branch, which opened in 1990, and was the only branch that accepted both Chinese Yuan and Hong Kong Dollars at the time.  The museum is located at A Park in Meilin, Futian District. It’s considerably accessible by public transport, as it’s just a short walk away from Xiameilin Station. Did you know? This bookstore in China with ‘infinite’ shelves is one of the world’s 10 most beautiful in 2025 Plus: These are the best cities in Asia for a ‘workcation’ in 2

From mouth-watering food and rich cultural experiences to having one of the most beautiful airports in the world, Japan already has plenty of reasons to visit. And now, there’s one more: Japa Valley Tokyo, a new lifestyle hub inspired by California’s famed Napa Valley. Here’s everything we know so far. Japa Valley Tokyo is the brainchild of creative heavyweights Pharrell Williams and Nigo, in collaboration with Japanese hospitality group Not A Hotel. If that name rings a bell, it’s the same team behind the unique concept where individuals can buy a share of a luxury holiday home to co-own and use with other shareholders. Their latest venture will take over much of the former Shin-Yurakucho Building site, transforming it into a vibrant space that blends art, fashion, food, and hospitality. Photograph: Not A Hotel Drawing inspiration from the rolling, vineyard-lined hills of Napa Valley, the Tokyo version swaps out wine for something closer to home: Japanese sake. The hub will also feature artwork by Kaws, with teaser images revealing a giant Kaws Holiday figure as a centrepiece. There will be event spaces, alongside F&B and retail pop-ups too. Japa Valley Tokyo is set to open in 2027. Follow the official Instagram page for updates.  Did you know? Asia's travel boom is back – here's where everyone's going in 2025 Plus: The best concerts and tours coming to Asia in 2025 Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to

You’ve probably seen images of countless stunning bookstores from around the world, from charming antique ones to those with gorgeous frescoed ceilings. Most of those are in Europe, of course. But that’s not to say Asia doesn’t have a stunner of its own. Dujiangyan Zhongshuge in China has just been crowned one of the top 10 most beautiful bookstores in the world by 1000 Libraries – and it's the only one in Asia to make the list. The rankings were based on a mix of social media engagement and online reviews, with over 200,000 votes cast across 19 shortlisted bookstores. Topping the list is Boekhandel Dominicanen in the Netherlands, a bookstore housed in a restored 13th-century Gothic church, with Dujiangyan Zhongshuge landing in sixth place. Set in Chengdu, China, this two-storey bookstore is a must-visit in the area. Designed by Li Xiang of X+Living, the space takes inspiration from the region’s famous Dujiangyan irrigation system. What really sets this bookstore apart is its surreal architecture. Winding staircases, curved shelves, giant archways and ceiling mirrors create an illusion of endless space — as if the shelves go on forever. Shiny black tile floors add to the whimsical effect, and there's also a cosy reading area and a small café tucked inside. A heads-up if you're planning a visit: it’s a popular tourist spot, so expect crowds and plenty of people snapping photos. Also, all the books on the shelves are currently in Mandarin, so it’s a great place to brush up if y

Whether you’re based in Vietnam or in a nearby country, it’s always good news when new flight routes open up. After all, more connections mean easier travel. Among the many new flights taking off, including Scoot’s new routes to Da Nang, Nha Trang and Kota Bharu, here are two major launches you’ll want to keep on your radar.  Starting July 1, 2025, Vietnam Airlines will operate its first-ever direct route to Italy, linking Hanoi and Milan. Then, from December 15, 2025, the same airline will launch the first direct flight between Vietnam and Denmark, connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Copenhagen – so travellers can explore Scandinavia without lengthy transits. The Hanoi to Milan service will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Flights from Copenhagen to Ho Chi Minh City will run on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, while departures from Ho Chi Minh City to Copenhagen will take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. As for fares, a one-way Economy ticket from Hanoi to Milan currently starts from 672 SGD while a one-way Economy ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Copenhagen is priced from 560 SGD. Browse the new flights on Vietnam Airlines website here. READ MORE Vietnam is launching a 10-year golden visa – here's what we know An overnight train route between China and Vietnam has finally reopened Need a reset? Vietnam is the world's top trending spa destination for 2025

If there’s one celestial event worth losing sleep over this year, it’s the Perseids meteor shower. Peaking in the early hours between August 12 and 13, this dazzling display is one of the most anticipated astronomical shows of 2025. And yes, you can see it from Singapore if conditions are right. Before you start frantically googling, here’s everything you need to know about catching the Perseids in Singapore. What is the Perseids meteor shower? Each year, Earth drifts through a trail of debris left behind over millennia by Comet Swift-Tuttle. As the comet orbits the Sun, it sheds dust and particles along its path. When this cosmic debris collides with Earth's atmosphere, it burns up, creating bright streaks of light across the night sky – that's the meteor shower we see. Occasionally, you might even spot fireballs – these are extra-bright bursts that shine longer and more dramatically than your average shooting star. When will the Perseids meteor shower be visible in Singapore?  This galactic spectacle is active from July 17 to August 24, 2025. However, the peak of this event occurs between August 12 and 13. The best times to view the Perseids meteor shower in Singapore are from 4am to 6am, when the skies are darkest and the shower is at its most intense. Can I see the Perseids meteor shower in Singapore with my naked eye? Yes, you can, no special equipment needed. Cross your fingers and hope for clear skies though, and practice patience – there's a bright waning full moon to

Hands up if you’ve taken a ‘workcation’ or two over the past couple of years. For those unfamiliar with the term, a ‘workcation’ is a hybrid of work and holiday, where remote workers base themselves in a different country without using up leave days or quitting the day job. It’s a flexible way of working that’s quickly become a lifestyle for digital nomads, freelancers and lucky employees with remote work-friendly companies. If you’re planning to take your laptop somewhere to upgrade your office views, the International Workplace Group has just released a list of the best cities around the world for a ‘workcation’ – and a couple of Asian cities have scored places in the top 10 rankings.  The study ranked over 40 cities based on factors like weather, broadband speed, transport, accommodation, digital nomad visa options and their costs, access to flexible workspaces and proximity to nature. Taking the top spot is Tokyo, praised for its blazing-fast broadband, world-class transport network, overall safety and newly launched digital nomad visa in 2024. The Japanese city also scores points for its balance of bustling urban life with easy access to mountains, beaches and national parks. Coming in at number four is Seoul, following Rio de Janeiro and Budapest in second and third place, for its strong broadband infrastructure, efficient public transport and digital nomad visa. Here are the top Asian ‘workcation’ cities in 2025:  Tokyo, Japan Seoul, South Korea Beijing, China Singapo

Whether you catch the National Day Parade live or tune in from the comfort of your home, there’s no denying that Singapore’s birthday bash is always a spectacle – with live performances, military parades, and, of course, the grand finale: fireworks lighting up the sky. Recommended: The best places to watch the 2025 NDP fireworks in Singapore This year’s National Day marks Singapore’s 60th anniversary of independence – a significant milestone and the heartland festivities are set to reflect that, with a bold, inclusive lineup that brings the party straight into the neighbourhoods.  The celebrations continue on August 10, 2025, with heartland festivities across the island, giving you and your loved ones another chance to join in the National Day spirit. Plus, it’s all completely free of charge (just make sure to grab your tickets early). Where are the heartland celebrations for NDP 2025?  Organised by the People’s Association and the NDP 2025 Executive Committee, the heartland celebrations will take place at five locations, each representing a different district and theme: Open field beside Bishan Junction 8: Nurturing Communities, Shaping Tomorrow Open field beside One Punggol: One Hope Open field beside FutsalArena @ Yishun: Heartbeat of our North West Open field beside Wisma Geylang Serai: Bridging Generations, Stronger Together Bukit Combak ActiveSG Stadium: Together We Shine and Spark What can I expect at the heartland celebrations for NDP 2025? Each venue will featu

Indonesia may be famous for its picture-perfect islands like Bali and Raja Ampat, but its second-largest city is finally getting the recognition it deserves. According to travel platform Agoda, Surabaya has just been crowned Asia’s most affordable city to visit in 2025. Being a hotel booking platform, Agoda based its ranking on average room rates in popular cities across Asia – not the most comprehensive picture of affordability, but nevertheless a good gauge, considering that accommodations do take a chunk out of the travel budget.  Surabaya came out tops thanks to an abundance of budget-friendly accommodation options. From cosy guesthouses to modern hotels, room rates here average out to US$35 – significantly cheaper than those in cities like Jakarta. Travellers on a shoestring budget can even find dorm beds for as little as $6 a night. Besides being easy on the wallet, there are many more reasons to visit Surabaya. It's one of the world's busiest trading ports, home to more than 3.3 million people, and rich in culture and affordable street eats.  Get a crash course in history at landmarks like the Heroes Monument, which commemorates Indonesia’s struggle for independence, or the House of Sampoerna, a preserved Dutch colonial building turned museum showcasing the clove cigarette industry. Visit the majestic Al-Akbar Mosque, one of the largest in the country, or take a slow stroll through Surabaya Old Town, a charming district filled with colonial buildings.  Food-wise, the c

In case you missed the news, Asia's travel boom is well underway – and Japan remains one of the most sought-after destinations. If the language barrier has been holding you back, here's some good news: Japan's TOBU Railway now has an English website that puts everything at your fingertips. The railway connects travellers to destinations like Nikko, Asakusa and Ikebukuro, but it is generally known as the gateway from Tokyo to Nikko. It offers a range of rail passes tailored for this route, including return transport from Tokyo and unlimited train and bus rides in designated areas around Nikko for either two or four days. No more guessing or translating as the new English site lays out everything clearly, from train schedules and service updates to route maps and station information. You can also book discounted tickets online, including the Nikko Pass, Furatto Ryomo Tobu Free Pass and Kawagoe Discount Pass. Prices are clearly displayed on the website too. You'll also find handy travel guides, including Muslim-friendly tips, onsen recommendations and curated lists of the best things to see, eat and do at each destination. Accommodation suggestions are included as well. And yes – we've checked. The English translations are coherent, user-friendly and make researching for your Japan adventure much smoother. Time to start planning that getaway to one of the world's top 10 travel destinations in 2025 . Explore the TOBU Railway website here . Have you heard? A new Pokémon theme park