Rachel Yohannan

Whether you’re a visitor planning your very first visit to Singapore, or a Singaporean mapping out a special occasion in the city, choosing a hotel in Singapore is an important (and sometimes overwhelming) task. With so many spectacular stays to choose between – from the world-famous Raffles to new boutique stays like 21 Carpenter – it can be challenging to decide which is best for you. To help you determine which hotel to book for your next visit or staycation, our team of local editors (including Time Out Singapore Editor Cheryl Sekkappan, Regional Content Director for Time Out APAC Nicole-Marie Ng and local writer Dewi Nurjuwita) have tried and tested the city’s top-ranking hotels to determine which are worth your time.The list has been overseen by Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC and self-confessed hotel obsessive. Each hotel has been chosen based on amenities, design and proximity to the city’s highlights – with many hotels on the list within walking distance of the best restaurants and bars in Singapore.Read on for our guide to the very best hotels in Singapore right now. Our Hotel Editor's picks for the best hotels in Singapore: Best boutique stay: QT SingaporeBest hotel for families: Mandarin Oriental SingaporeBest luxury hotel: Raffles Hotel SingaporeBest beachside stay: Capella Singapore RECOMMENDED: The best Singapore attractions to visitThe best rooftop bars in SingaporeAirport hotels in SingaporeThe best luxury hotels in Singapore At Time Out, all of

The New Year's Eve fireworks in Singapore get even more impressive with each year, and we aren’t expecting anything less this December 31. While the annual Let’s Celebrate countdown show and fireworks will be televised live on our local free-to-air channels, nothing beats getting to experience the fireworks in person. While this show will be held at Siloso Beach this year, the Marina Bay area will still be having its own fireworks extravaganza, as will Kallang – which means you’ll get to admire the pyrotechnics from even more locations this year. Read on for a list of the best New Year’s Eve fireworks viewing locations in Singapore, from free viewing spots to paid venues that are worth the splurge. RECOMMENDED: Best New Year's Eve parties and events in Singapore and 17 heartland locations across Singapore will have New Year's Eve celebrations

There’s a whole load of cool stuff happening across the world in 2026, but if you’re after some outstanding art to add to your bucket list for the year, Time Out has you covered. We’ve called on our international network of editors and writers, and dug around the ‘upcoming’ sections of galleries across the planet, to curate our very own list of all the art and culture worth travelling for in 2026. From retrospectives of greats like Raphael and Matisse to city-wide biennales and beautifully crafted fashion retrospectives, read on for all the very best exhibitions taking place across the planet in 2026. RECOMMENDED:🎪 The world’s best music festivals for 2026🛍️ The coolest streets in the world🏘️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world🌍 The best new things to do in the world in 2026 Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.

December in Singapore sure hits different. The streets light up, everyone’s in that year-end holiday mood, and there’s a buzz in the air as we go about shopping for gifts for loved ones. To soak in the yuletide vibes all in one place, an outing to a Christmas market does the trick – they’re a happy spread of trinket-filled stalls, food kiosks dishing out seasonal treats, live shows by talented performers, carnival games and more, all set against twinkling decorations that create a magical atmosphere. Read on for our pick of the best Christmas markets in Singapore in 2025, each with plenty of fun for the whole family. RECOMMENDED: The best places Christmas events in Singapore and  The best Christmas log cakes to get in Singapore this year    

Mariah Carey has defrosted, and the island is lit aglow with thousands of twinkling lights and towering trees. Yes, the Christmas season is here once again to close off another year. While we can only dream of a white Christmas in these tropics, the festivities in Singapore are no less magical with stretches of magnificent street decorations, scheduled ‘snowfall’ sessions, and even themed set-ups featuring your favourite characters from Disney and Sanrio. Go on and chase those lights at these best places to see Christmas decorations in Singapore in 2025. RECOMMENDED: The best Christmas 2025 events in Singapore and The best Christmas log cakes to get in Singapore this year  

This list is from 2024. Our latest ranking for 2025 is live here. Ticking off the main tourist attractions on a city break is all well and good, but it’s only when you veer off down a side street or stumble across a leafy avenue that you really get a glimpse of a city’s true character. Streets are the heart of local life; they’re where communities come together, where new local businesses become go-to staples and where urbanites go out, hang out and have fun.  So what are the world’s coolest streets worth a stroll right now? To find the answer, we reached out to our global team of local expert editors and contributors, who each made a case for the coolest street in their city. We then narrowed down the selection to create a definitive ranking of the best avenues, thoroughfares, backstreets and boulevards on the planet. And so you have it: the coolest streets in the world’s best cities. Over the last few years, street life has gone through something of an evolution. Outdoor drinking and dining, at one point a temporary measure, has become a staple on many of the streets on our hotlist; only bolstered by green initiatives like pedestrianisation and low-traffic avenues. In other words, these streets have become much more walkable and pleasant places to spend our time. On every street on this list, there are bold, creative new ventures in food, drink, nightlife and culture: from listening bars to repurposed heritage buildings, these streets are where you’ll find a city’s most ex

Although not widely celebrated by Singaporeans, the occasion of Thanksgiving has an essence that’s borderless: Being grateful for both the big and little things, and gathering in the company of your loved ones over a delicious meal. Relatable enough. Whether it’s an existing tradition in your family or otherwise, there’s no harm in partaking in the festivities and carving into a stuffed turkey together, just like how they do in those Hallmark holiday movies. Who could say no to that? Consider Thanksgiving a nice prelude to Christmas, since it occurs on the fourth Thursday of November each year – this year’s is on November 27, 2025. Besides, the seasonal autumn flavours often seen in Turkey Day spreads are always a palatable plus. Here are the six best restaurants in Singapore for a hearty Thanksgiving get-together. RECOMMENDED: Check out this list of restaurants in Singapore recommended by the Time Out team for 2025 and The best new restaurants in Singapore

Also known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali (or Diwali) is an annual religious celebration for Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains in Singapore. For those who are still unfamiliar, here's an in-depth guide on everything you need to know about the occasion, from its origins, to how it's celebrated in the Little Red Dot, and where you can get in on the celebrations regardless of your background.We've also compiled some tips on house guest etiquette if you've been invited to a friend's Deepavali open house party for the first time and aren't sure of what to wear or bring. RECOMMENDED: The best Indian restaurants in Singapore and the ultimate guide to Little India

This list is from 2024. Our latest ranking for 2025 is live here. In 2024, what exactly makes a neighbourhood cool? Craft breweries, natty wine bars and street art are well and good, but the world’s best, most exciting and downright fun neighbourhoods are much more than identikit ‘hipster hubs’. They’re places that reflect the very best of their cities – its culture, community spirit, nightlife, food and drink – all condensed in one vibey, walkable district. To create our annual ranking, we went straight to the experts – our global team of on-the-ground writers and editors – and asked them what the coolest neighbourhood in their city is right now, and why. Then we narrowed down the selection and ranked the list using the insight and expertise of Time Out’s global editors, who vetted each neighbourhood against criteria including food, drink, arts, culture, street life, community and one-of-a-kind local flavour. The result? A list that celebrates the most unique and exciting pockets of our cities – and all their quirks. Yes, you’ll find some of those international hallmarks of ‘cool’. But in every neighbourhood on this list there’s something you won’t find anywhere else. Ever been to a photography museum that moonlights as a jazz club? Or a brewery with a library of Russian literature? How about a festival dedicated to fluff? When communities fiercely support and rally around their local businesses, even the most eccentric ideas can become a reality. And that, in our eyes, is

The good thing about working in Singapore’s Central Business District is that you’re never short of food options. And on weekdays, there’s that added perk of set lunches, often at value-for-money prices. Whether you’re bonding with your favourite colleagues during break time or entertaining clients, these CBD restaurants offer some of the best business lunch sets in town – with prices starting from just $18. Even if you’re not planning a meal with work associates, these set lunches are worth taking leave for on a random weekday where you simply feel like treating yourself. RECOMMENDED: The best new restaurants in Singapore and the best happy hour deals in the city

It’s time to live life in the fast lane – the Grand Prix™ Season Singapore (GPSS) is back from September 26 to October 5, revving up with even more thrills beyond the race track. Besides cheering on your favourite speedsters zipping through the circuit, there are also plenty of things to do to immerse yourself in the buzz. With one-of-a-kind experiences that roll out just once a year during race week, you’ve got every reason to explore the city before – and even after – the final checkered flag waves. We’re talking 10 days of exciting experiences covering everything from parties at the hottest clubs to exclusive F&B deals, plus unique retail pop-ups and limited-edition merch drops – there’s bound to be something for everyone, no matter your speed. Here are the best spots to hit up this GPSS 2025, and all the activity highlights you shouldn’t miss. For the full lowdown, download your ultimate guide to the season.

There’s never a bad time for ice cream – especially not in Singapore’s unforgiving tropical heat. An abundance of ice cream parlours are dotted all around the island, and we’ve got the scoop on which are most worth your calories. From a gelato café with tea-based flavours, to a late-night joint that opens till 2am, and a homegrown chain we grew up with and still love dearly – here are the best ice cream stores in Singapore for a cool indulgent treat. RECOMMENDED The best guilt-free ice cream in Singapore and the best soft-serve ice creams in Singapore  

Christmas fairytales come to life at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, with this year’s festive decor following a Nutcracker theme – referencing the classic Christmas adventure we all know and love. But it’s not ‘B’ for ‘book’ nor ‘ballet’ this time. It’s ‘B’ for ‘butler’, as in MBS’s dedicated troop of butlers – Singapore’s largest – who are always ready to assist visitors and guests’ every query with a smile and peak professionalism. The sprawling Marina Bay Sands compound is now home to nearly 190 Christmas trees, and among them stand 88 nutcracker butlers as homage to these key but oft-overlooked staff members of MBS. Making a comeback at The Shoppes is a whimsical ‘forest’ of floating Christmas trees, as though straight out of our dreams. Except, this enchanting sight isn’t a ‘pinch me’ hallucination – it’s real life, and you’ll be able to witness it till December 29, 2025.  The Christmas magic dials further up a notch with The Nutcracker Butlet’s Concert, a twinkling fairy light show at this levitating forest at 7.30pm and 8.30pm daily, with lilting music and immersive LED animations on 16 screens as the backdrop. The show runs for just five minutes at a go, so plan your visit in time to catch its epic blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments. But don’t just stay indoors, because the experience extends outside with a gold-hued light-up of the building’s facade, along with nutcracker-themed projections on the lotus-shaped structure of the ArtScience Museum. Take note: The outdoor disp

We're closing out October and can already smell Christmas in the air – especially with news about the return of Singapore's biggest year-end market. The World Christmas Market 2025 returns this December as Togetherland, running from December 11 to January 4 at Bayfront Event Space with an exciting Santa sack of activities and events. There'll be lots to explore at Togetherland, which unfolds across nine zones to the theme of "A Christmas Constellation". Each zone is named after one of the Reindeer Hosts, featuring a lively musical, artisanal bazaar, community initiatives, and family attractions.  The clear highlight is Dancer's Magical Playground, a commissioned Christmas musical with a line-up of live performances under a canopy of stars. After singing along to cheerful Christmas carols, you can pick up handcrafted Christmas gifts and social-impact creations at Prancer's Star Bazaar. And because Christmas is all about feasting, you can bet on an impressive spread at Togetherland: modern dining and themed cocktails star at Dasher's Festive Feast, while fine cheeses, wine, chocolate and festive bakes await at Comet's Global Market.  The very first World Christmas Market had a popular Candy Cane Lane – and we're chuffed to say it's back. Get your cameras ready for illuminated candy cane installations, real Christmas trees, and expanded photo installations. And in the Christmas spirit of giving, visit Donner's Heatrlight Haven, where you can meet charities and social enterprises

The festive season is upon us, and you know the drill: Christmas Wonderland is here to bring cheer to Gardens by the Bay for yet another magical edition, starting from November 29, 2025. Presented in collaboration with Trip.com, this massive outdoor Christmas market and carnival has been ranked as one of the best in the world by CNN Travel. While the event is returning to its usual location at the Supertree Grove, this year’s iteration will also sprawl across The Meadow – so expect it to be even more exciting than you’ve ever experienced. One of the main highlights of Christmas Wonderland in Singapore is its annual Spalliera illumination displays, expertly crafted by Italian artisans. Revellers can look forward to frolicking beneath those magnificent structures as powdery white “snow” falls all around. Get further into the Yuletide spirit with carnival games and rides, carolling performances, and tasty Christmassy treats from a mini food village – just like the ones seen at those classic Christmas markets in Europe. A little birdie also told us that there will be a flying Santa making an appearance this year. Christmas Wonderland will be running from November 29, 2025 to January 1, 2026, from 6.30pm to 11pm daily. Ticketing information, including prices, will be available from November 13 onwards. Find out more here. 

Christmas on a Great Street – Orchard Road’s annual year-end light-up – is back once again to blanket our shopping belt in sparkling Yuletide magic. Those with sharp eyes might already have noticed some baubles and bits being strung from Orchard’s lamp posts, but things are about to get more dazzling with the flick of the switch on November 8. Running till January 1, 2026, this 55-day festive display stretches all the way from Tanglin to Dhoby Ghaut. That’s 3.1km worth of sights to soak in. This year’s colour theme features soft, elegant hues of rose gold, gold, and silvery white. But because it’s SG60, local motifs like Merli the Merlion and the iconic dragon playground will pepper the area with more vividness. In lieu of the usual sleigh, Santa’s reindeer will be pulling a trishaw instead – a cute nod to our past. As you’re strolling along, make a point to stop and look up at the facade of Hilton Singapore Orchard for a mesmerising 3D projection mapping show. Spirits will run high at not one but two Christmas villages. The one outside Ngee Ann City will feature carnival games, rides, and a revamped Christmas market with tasty bites and a craft beer bar. Gather around the 14-metre tree for nightly "snowfall", and don’t miss the weekend evening live performances starring Jill-Marie Thomas, Singapore Idol alumni Mathilda D’Silva and Maia Lee, and more. Over at Shaw House, things are more child-friendly with a Kiztopia Christmas Market featuring milder rides and claw machines.

If you’re down to get edgy, mark your calendar for DnA Fest – an unexpected collision of different arts disciplines, served with a side of sass. Sit back for a screening of The House of Janus – a modern film take on Henry Purcell’s opera Dido and Aeneas – starring and directed by Ong Keng Sen who’s also responsible for local comedy hit movie Army Daze. Or, get wild with Dido & The Belindas, a vibrant drag spectacle featuring none other than queen Becca D’Bus. End it off with Afterparty, an underground ballroom event with flashy runway battles and wicked beats. Find out more here.

It’s all things K-culture at Hallyu Weekend, a three-day festival packed with music, dance, and merch. Dance trainer DJ Blink from SM Entertainment will be hosting a free K-pop party with the hottest beats, while Jam Republic’s skilled choreographers will be conducting a dance workshop suitable for all levels. Dreaming of being the next big thing? Try your luck at auditions for KQ Entertainment – the same company responsible for world-famous groups like Ateez. If you’d rather be by the sidelines, watch the finalists of the Dance Dance Hallyu competition battle it out, or simply drop by the K-Culture Market to score some loot featuring your biases. Find out more here.

Thanks to Emerald Hill – a spin-off of popular Mediacorp series The Little Nyonya – Peranakan fever is sweeping over Singapore, and Sentosa is also getting in on the fanfare. From now till the end of August, hop on over to the scenic island and experience a cultural immersion like no other with kebaya rental, Nyonya-inspired afternoon tea, and heritage craft workshops where you’ll learn the art of tile painting and floral embroidery. But the grand highlight? Larger-than-life installations of giant beaded slippers, tingkats and teapots, and a kaleidoscopic replica of a Peranakan shophouse with nightly light shows. Find out more here.

Enjoyed the cute fruit-themed exhibition at Heartware Store & Gallery a couple of months back? The art space at Joo Chiat is now hosting Japanese artist maitoparta’s first solo Singapore showcase titled Itadakimasu! – featuring her signature kooky-looking wooden sculptures all handpainted in bright colours. There will also be exhibition-exclusive posters, plushies, bag charms and more, and pretty much everything you see displayed will be for sale. Be quick, because some of them are one-of-a-kind, with no remakes. Entry is free. Find out more here.

Grab your picnic mats and baskets and make a date for a musical soirée at the Botanic Gardens – because the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) is gracing the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage with a free concert. Lounge on the lawn surrounded by lush foliage, and be serenaded with classical tunes composed by the likes of legends Brahms and Mendelssohn, as well as Singapore’s very own Lee Jinjun. Among the mix, look forward to the first movement of Beethoven’s iconic ‘Symphony No. 5’ – a number you should recognise by its grandiose melody, even if not by title. Pets are welcome too. Find out more here.

Seen a long queue outside Mandarin Gallery lately? That would be the line for the purchase of Singapore-exclusive blind boxes and other paraphernalia at the ongoing Pop Mart Summer pop-up. Even if you’re not down to splurge on collectible toys, it’s still worth stopping by to check out the larger-than-life installations featuring Dimoo, Labubu, Hirono and the gang. Parked right outside the mall next to the Peranakan-inspired container store are character standees alongside nostalgic local icons like the dragon playground and a rickshaw. But wait, there’s more – head into the mall for even more Pop Mart photo spots, featuring HDB block facades and traditional kueh. Hint: The fun doesn’t just stop on the first floor.

Get swept up in a fairytale of gallant knights and castle landscapes with Rose Romance at Gardens by the Bay. This year’s edition of the Flower Dome display takes you back in time to old England, paying homage to the legend of King Arthur with scenes of Camelot brought to life. Spot the mythical sword of Excalibur, take your spot at the Round Table, learn about the history of British castles, and stroll through paths lined with thousands of beautiful roses in various species and hues. Also on display are icons of England’s more modern eras – from red telephone boots to mailboxes and royal palace guard uniforms. Find out more and book your tickets here.    

*Scape knows what’s up when it comes to the cool crowd. Its latest youth-centric event, It’s Giving Fest, is turning up the heat with a solid mix of music, food, wellness and games. Groove to live performances by homegrown music talents including Benjamin Kheng, Shye, and Tasha Low, or get your muscles moving with pilates and K-pop workouts – all for absolutely free. Or, team up with your fave local stars like Annette Lee and Zhang Ze Tong in a celebrity telematch showdown for laughs and prizes. Add some new treasures to your collection at the flea market and celebrity charity auction, snap some photo booth keepsakes, and when you’re hungry after all the action, stop by the food truck for burgers and other festival grub. It’s two days of non-stop fun – check out the full event line-up here.

If kicking your doomscrolling addiction and being less chronically online in general are part of your New Year’s resolutions, here’s some welcome news: From March 2026 onwards, your $100 worth of SG Culture Pass credits will be usable for book purchases, on top of the existing slew of cultural programmes, theatre shows, and art workshops. The catch? You’ll only be able to offset purchases in the Singapore Literature category, also known as SingLit. It’s a great chance for bookworms to delve deeper into our country’s own literary scene, and if you haven’t already gotten acquainted with this genre of reads, take this as an opportunity to discover your new favourite authors. It’s not just fiction tales in English that are up for free redemption – poetry, plays, and short essays in all four official languages (English, Chinese, Malay, and Tamil) are also part of the list, as long as they are physical books written by a Singaporean or permanent resident. The list of participating bookshops is still being approved by the Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth (MCCY), but we’re expecting a handful of our beloved local independent bookstores in the mix. In the meantime, if you absolutely can’t wait to add more titles to your shelf, check out our favourite bookstores like Book Bar, Littered with Books, and Books Kinokuniya’s newest outlet at Raffles City. READ MORE Heartware Store transforms into a love hotel for a NSFW art exhibition by Taiwanese artist IKUIKU Pop Mart rolls out 12 l

From the Coach Coffee Shop to Prada Caffè and Ralph’s Coffee, stylish cafés by big-name fashion houses have steadily streamed into Singapore’s dining scene. But there hasn’t been one tied to a camera brand – not since Café Leitz was made defunct with the closure of the Leica Store at Raffles Hotel. But, in late 2025, the luxury camera brand returned with a brand-new flagship at South Beach Quarter – and a fresh iteration of its café concept. The new Café Leitz is the only one in Southeast Asia, and our quiet little secret in the middle of the business district. We’re here to spill the beans. Photograph: Café Leitz As an apt reference to Leica’s German roots, Café Leitz dishes out German flavours. For savouries, it’s mostly light sandwiches – examples include Porktoberfest with smoked pork collar, apple sauerkraut, and melted Monterey Jack cheese; The Big Lox with smoked salmon, dill, and pickled cucumber; and Berlin Wurst, a sausage-filled stack. Pair these with the various coffees and iced tea with cold foam. Photograph: Café Leitz There’s also a dessert counter with cakes and pastries. It’s hard to go wrong with the decadent Choconana, which is exactly as its name suggests, but for a zesty kick, try the Lime Solero, which is reminiscent of a particular childhood ice cream. Also worth trying is the cheekily named 24 Carrot Gold, a carrot cake with mousseline within. Photograph: Café Leitz Ambience-wise, things are kept chill and simple with a light wood palette – the p

Quick jaunts in Johor Bahru are about to get smoother than ever. Hot on the heels of new public transport upgrades – from two direct bus routes to Johor Premium Outlets to the new high-speed train to Kuala Lumpur – comes a brand new shuttle bus that you can hop on for free.  What’s the catch? There isn’t any, really. This is all part of a Visit Johor 2026 tourism campaign that aims to encourage exploration across the Malaysian state. Operating daily from 8am to 8pm, the 20-seater eco-friendly electric buses make rounds between eight stops, including hotspots like Komtar JBCC and Johor Zoo. While other stations, such as the majestic Sultan Ibrahim Building and former prison-turned-creative-complex, Kota Jail, might sound unfamiliar to casual Causeway-hoppers, this is the perfect chance to explore JB more intimately and discover new favourites you would otherwise have missed out on. Route for JB’s free shuttle bus service route Johor Tourist Information Centre (JOTIC) 0km Landmark Komtar JBCC Galeria @ Kotaraya Sultan Ibrahim Building Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex Johor Zoo Kota Jail According to a Johor state official, the shuttle service will commence in early 2026 and has already gone through rounds of trials to ensure fuss-free commutes for all. It is unclear as to whether it’ll only be part of the Visit Johor 2026 campaign, or if it will continue beyond that based on demand, but hopefully it’ll still be going strong by the time JB’s City Square Mall reopens in end-20

For arts and culture seekers, travel is just as much about uncovering new, unique exhibitions as it is about food and sightseeing – especially those that you’d be hard-pressed to find in your home country. To help you plan your 2026 art trail around the world, the global Time Out team has done the legwork and pulled together a list of the world’s best exhibitions worth travelling for this year – and we’re proud to say that there’s one in Singapore that made the final cut, alongside those at world-famous institutions like The MET in New York, Tate Britain, and Petit Palais in Paris. The IMBA Theatre might be an unfamiliar name for some, but this upcoming spot at Gardens by the Bay is one to watch out for. With its grand opening just around the corner in the first quarter of the year, the brand-new arts venue is Singapore’s first attraction dedicated to large-scale multi-sensory events. And the exhibition deemed worthy of crossing countries for? Its debut showcase, Botero: Heart of Volume. Centred around the works of – you guessed it – Fernando Botero, this limited-time exhibition will feature a range of paintings, sculptures, and even larger-than-life animations that’ll give you a deeper glimpse into the famed Colombian artist’s world. For the uninitiated, you’ve definitely passed by his quirky, rotund bronze sculptures all around Singapore – the famous Bird at Boat Quay is one of them. Ticket prices and dates for Botero: Heart of Volume have yet to be released. Find out more

Almost every train station in Singapore has a shopping mall parked right next to it, and if it doesn’t? It’s only a matter of time. Directly connected to Lentor MRT station on the brown Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) comes the new Lentor Modern, a mixed-use development that also houses food and retail outlets that are open to the public. While this is great news for Northies especially, the compact yet sleek-looking neighborhood mall is also worth the travel for those living elsewhere, thanks to its handful of exciting new-to-market eateries. Photograph: Bunny's Currently trending on social media is Bunny’s, an adorable pink-splashed Harajuku-inspired burger joint specialising in wagyu patties. Its furry feature wall, retro-style wall art, and heart-shaped sauce tubs are swiftly taking over our feeds, while the loaded ‘Boyfriend Burger’ ($32) and strawberry lemonade ($4) are stealing hearts and tummies. There’s also Nolita Kitchen, a Japanese-Italian pasta restaurant that also serves flatbread pizza with the perfect level of char. Enjoy quality time with your four-legged bestie at meat-free café, Merle & Co. Unlike a majority of pet-friendly F&B outlets that only allow animals at their al fresco areas, this one lets furkids dine indoors, in the comfort of air-con – a refreshing escape on sweltering days. Also upcoming is Daily, a fusion spot with Asian-style pasta and grilled meat dishes. Photograph: Lentor Modern Aside from these all-new names, look forward to new outlets

Tons of new cafés keep springing up on the island, but we’re not complaining – bring it on. Next on the list is Elephant Grounds, a renowned name from Hong Kong that has been dishing out craft coffee, baked-from-scratch breads and pastries, and hearty brunch platters since 2013. First opened as a humble kiosk, the café now boasts multiple outlets across its homeground, as well as fairly new branches in Manila and Jakarta. Designed to serve as a third space for patrons to chill in comfort, Elephant Grounds’ first outlet in the Lion City features an airy, nature-inspired ambience with both indoor and outdoor seating – and pets are welcome, too. Photograph: Elephant Grounds While the full menu has yet to be released, here’s a little sneak of what café enthusiasts in Singapore can look forward to: fresh bakes, Florentine Benedict, and mango coconut overnight oats during breakfast hours; wholesome Buddha bowls, truffle baked pork chop rice, and corned beef hash with eggs on weekends; and comfort mains like carbonara and wagyu burgers as part of the daily all-day selection. Even the fussiest person in your friend group should find something that tickles their fancy here. Elephant Grounds Singapore is located at 124 Beach Road, #01-04 Guoco Midtown II, open daily from 8am to 8pm from January 10, 2026 onwards. Look out for the latest updates via @elephantgroundssg on Instagram. READ MORE 5 new restaurants to check out in Singapore this January 2026 Singapore's first Lotteria opens

A new year calls for new adventures, and Australia is high on our list. Jetstar Asia may have ceased operations last year, but its parent company, Jetstar Airways, is still going strong. While the previously launched direct flights to Broome have since been cancelled due to the exit of the Australian airline’s Asian arm, more new adventures await Down Under with the debut of new routes from Singapore’s Changi Airport to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, as well as Newcastle in New South Wales. Sunshine Coast is just as its name suggests: lots of sunny, sandy beaches, water activities like canoeing and even swimming with humpback whales, and scenic hiking and horseback riding trails. As for Newcastle, it’s a surfer’s paradise with a vibrant bar scene and street art around every corner. Take note that while these two flights are direct, they are not non-stop. This means there will be quick stops for refuelling, except that passengers will continue their journey on the same aircraft without having to go through security screenings and baggage clearance again at the midway point. In this case, both routes involve a stop at Bali lasting roughly 1.5 hours. In total, the journey from Singapore to the Sunshine Coast via Jetstar clocks in at slightly under 11 hours, while the one to Newcastle is slightly under 10 hours. We did a quick check and found that it’s entirely possible to keep your flight costs within the $500 range for a two-way trip, before any top-ups for checked baggage a

Call it a concrete jungle if you will, but Singapore’s Downtown area is one of the buzziest spots on the island. Yes, it’s home to scores and scores of skyscrapers and office buildings – but also brings the gift of large-scale arts events, fireworks during special occasions, and top-notch hotels and attractions that both locals and tourists love. This densely packed district is only about to get more exciting in the coming years, according to the latest version of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Draft Master Plan. Photograph: Therme Group The expansive Downtown Core, which encompasses the Central Business District and the further waterfront areas of Marina South, will welcome plenty of new developments. You’ve already heard about the massive new Therme Group wellness attraction near Gardens by the Bay with thermal pools, art, and green spaces. There’s also The Skywaters, a 63-storey Shenton Way building which will house the upcoming luxury hotel and residences, Aman Singapore. Joining this is a handful of other mixed-use developments across Tanjong Pagar, Marina Bay, and Beach Road with offices, homes, and leisure options. Photograph: MINDEF One key highlight to look forward to within this year is the new Passion Wave Outpost @ Bayfront, with community sports offerings including kayaking, pedal boating, and dragon boating. Nearby, the NS Square, slated for completion in 2027, will be host to concerts and future National Day Parades. Other additions include a park

It was a sad day when The Projector closed its doors forever in August 2025, especially since many of us have cherished memories of the now-defunct local independent cinema. But a new year calls for a new beginning, and SFS Somerset might just be what we need to fill that gaping hole in our hearts and Singapore’s film scene. Helmed by the Singapore Film Society, this brand new indie movie house, which opened on January 1, 2026, is located within Hall 6 of Golden Village Cineleisure at Grange Road, and its weekly line-up is personally curated by its Chairman, Kenneth Tan. Kicking things off is local film, The Old Man and His Car, which is sure to tug on your heartstrings. Starring familiar faces Lim Kay Tong, Richard Low, Steven Woon, and Sunny Pang, this production follows the story of an old widower who says goodbye to his precious vehicle in preparation to migrate, in the process confronting his past, his grief, and his love.  Weekly film screening schedule at SFS Somerset: Wednesday to Friday: 7.30pm Saturday: 1.30pm, 4pm, 7.30pm Sunday: 4pm, 7.30pm You’ll be heartened to know that tickets at SFS Somerset are kept relatively affordable at $15 per person, but SFS members can enjoy them for just $9. You can sign up for a paid SFS membership in various flexible durations, ranging from one to 12 months Find out more about SFS Somerset, check out the latest film screening schedule, and book your tickets here. READ MORE Zouk, Capital, and Phuture to shut for a multi-million do

Things are about to get real lit in town – and we’re not referring to the existing Christmas decorations or upcoming Chinese New Year ones. Singapore’s annual light art festival Light to Night is back for its 10th run in January 2026, and for the first time ever, it’ll be stretched across four weekends from January 9 to 31. This year’s theme is ‘The Power in Us’, which celebrates togetherness in the community and how art can bring people of different walks of life together in a unifying experience. While the line-up of glowing installations have yet to be announced, here’s what we already know about what you can expect. Photograph: National Gallery Singapore As with every year, the facade of the National Gallery and other iconic historical landmarks in the vicinity will come alive with Art Skins on Monuments – a series of animated projections by local artists, both established and budding. The Art X Social: Festival Village along St Andrew’s Road will also make its comeback with bustling street food stalls, live music, and dancing on weekends. But don’t just show up to fill your camera with 'gram worthy moments, for there’s a whole host of insightful fringe events to delve into, both free and ticketed. Some examples include: A scavenger hunt around the National Gallery; art dialogues; stories of migrants; the pairing of artworks with solo tunes by members of Korean group BTS; and power card readings where your chosen cards also take you on a personalised gallery tour. Find

Party animals whose usual haunts are Zouk, Capital, and Phuture will have to take their raving elsewhere for the time being from mid-January onwards. As part of Zouk Group’s multi-phase revamp efforts in Singapore, the three nightclubs will be shutting their doors for extensive renovation works, and will reopen by June 2026 – just in time to celebrate its 35th anniversary. According to Zouk Group, some of the upgrades that patrons can look forward to include spanking new concert-grade speaker systems, increased venue capacities, 12-metre-wide LED walls for extra vibes, and a more luxurious VIP experience. In particular, the refreshed version of Zouk Mainroom comes with a versatile transformable layout where acoustic walls can be shifted around as partitions or to expand its spaces for different types of events, from cosy, intimate performances to large-scale DJ sets. There will also be curated daytime programmes added to the mix, such as fashion pop-ups, wellness sessions, and even creative networking events. Photograph: Zouk In the meantime, take this chance to head down to Clark Quay for a final hurrah in the existing versions of these premises before their respective glow-ups. Capital will be closing first on January 17, while both Zouk and Phuture will still have programmes running till the end of March. Meanwhile, RedTail Bar’s temporary closure date has not been announced, but we’ve been told that it’ll also be host to daytime events once it’s ready for its new era. W

Orchard Road is fully lit, the Christmas jingles are blasting in malls, and the festive season is officially in full swing. If you're already plotting your Christmas meals and New Year's Eve dinners ahead of time, you'll also want to keep an eye on the latest additions to the city's dining scene. December always brings a flurry of openings, but this month feels especially stacked. Which is why we've narrowed it down to five new establishments that we feel are most worth your time and attention this busy season.  Japanese brands never fail to win our hearts, and we've got Udon Shin and Sushidan for silky udon noodles and affordable sushi this month. The National Gallery Singapore's revamp is also underway, and with that, the museum introduces a new Eurasian heritage restaurant by chef-personality Damian D'Silva. For an elegant Italian meal, head to L’Amo Bistrò del Mare at the brand new Mett Singapore hotel in Fort Canning. And nothing quite beats the novelty, charm and deliciousness of Korean barbecue, and the new Joong San in Telok Ayer might just be your next go-to in that category. Explore Singapore’s 2025 restaurant openings by month: New restaurants in November New restaurants in October New restaurants in September New restaurants in August New restaurants in July New restaurants in June New restaurants in May New restaurants in April New restaurants in March New restaurants in February New restaurants in January Discover the best new restaurants in Singapore this yea