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. 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 our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on to

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  

Our mums are superstars all year round, but this is the one time of the year where you have the perfect excuse to show extra appreciation toward her. Other than treating her to a delicious Mother’s Day meal or planning a Mother’s Day outing with fun bonding activities like jewellery workshops or strolling through a flower display, you can add a sweeter note to the occasion by blessing her with a thoughtful treat. These local bakeries and dessert stores in Singapore are whipping up special Mother’s Day treats, ranging from cute macarons to a warabimochi cake and even pistachio mille crepe inspired by the latest Dubai chocolate trend.  RECOMMENDED: The best cake shops in Singapore and The best florists in Singapore for any occasion

As far as local landmarks go, Raffles Hotel Singapore is by far one of the most iconic – and not just for its grand postcard-worthy exteriors. Though impeccably well-maintained, this five-star hotel retains its classic colonial charm harking back to the 1800s, and staying here is a premium experience right from the moment you encounter their unmistakable doormen. Plus, it's just been crowned the 17th best hotel in the World's 50 Best Hotels 2023 list, ranking a few spots above Capella, which gives you all the more reason to check it out. Even if you haven't booked one of their luxury suites, there's still plenty to explore within the hotel's sprawling grounds, from its gorgeous lawn area, to the marvel-worthy architecture, and its in-house lifestyle destination, Raffles Arcade. Read on for our guide on the best of Raffles Hotel.

Whether you're a regular runner or just looking to get moving, Singapore has no shortage of scenic trails that make your time outdoors worth it. From quiet nature trails to breezy coastal paths, we’ve rounded up some of the best running routes across the island. So lace up, head outside and get a dose of fresh air.  If you’re looking to soak in the fresh air and stunning scenery while testing your fitness limits, sign up for Singapore T100 and challenge yourself on April 5 and 6 at Marina Bay. RECOMMENDED: The best nature trails in Singapore and The best hiking trails and spots in Singapore  

People who don’t live in cities will tell you they’re busy, lonely and expensive places. But there’s a reason so many people choose to live in them: with world-class art and culture, unbeatable food and nightlife, buzzing neighbourhoods and a dizzying amount of stuff to do and see, there’s simply no better place to be.  Every year, we take the pulse of city living by quizzing thousands of locals across the planet about life in their hometowns. This year, more than 18,500 city-dwellers shared their insights on everything from food, nightlife and culture to affordability, happiness and the overall city vibe. When urban living can sometimes feel isolating and costly, this year we wanted to get a sense of what, exactly, makes a city feel like home. Sure, the nightlife is great, but is the city safe and walkable? Is good quality food and art available at a reasonable price? Is it easy to make friends, find love, and access nature?  Livability was a key factor in our ranking this year. But a great city to live in is, naturally, a great city to visit. So, along with the thousands of responses from locals around the world, we asked Time Out’s global network of city experts to vote on the places they think are particularly exciting right now. After crunching all that data, here we are: Time Out’s definitive ranking of the world’s best cities in 2025. Read on to see how your hometown fared… RECOMMENDED:🛍️ The coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now🌎 The best things to do in the

You know that the Chinese New Year festivites are starting to get in full swing when you see our island lit up with stunning lanterns and striking red and gold garlands. This year, plenty of serpent-themed decorations are slithering their way across our streets and coiling around every corner to herald the year of the snake. Ready to slide right into the lively bustle of the season? There's no better way than to do so by soaking it all up at these best Chinese New Year light-ups spots for 2025. RECOMMENDED: The best Chinese New Year events in Singapore and Best Chinese New Year 2025 light-ups and displays in Singapore

Vibrant lantern displays are starting to take over our streets, heralding the arrival of another Chinese New Year. Beyond savouring pineapple tarts and reconnecting with loved ones during this time, immerse yourself in the spirit of things with all the festive events across Singapore this season, from stunning illuminations to lion dances and even free firecracker displays. Don your festive finest and slither into the year of the snake with these best Chinese New Year events in Singapore. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants for Chinese New Year 2025 reunion dinner in Singapore and Local fashion brands with modern cheongsams in Singapore

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.

*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.

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.    

Myth broken: Sensitive skin can be exfoliated – you just have to do it the right way. Learn all about this firsthand at the Cetaphil SkinLabs pop-up, where you’ll get to try the doctor-approved skincare brand’s all-new Gentle Exfoliating SA range. Happening from now till June 29, the experiential event set across two floors of a cosy shophouse includes plenty of interactive highlights like complimentary hand massages and skin analysis, products at 30 percent off, edgy photo spots, denim tote bag customisation, and free travel-sized bottles of skincare. To upgrade your experience, sign up for a yoga session or expert talk during the weekend. These cost $15 to attend, but come with a complimentary Cetaphil goodie bag worth $50 – so that’s more than good bang for your buck. The new Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA range uses an effective yet gentle triple blend of chemical exfoliants to dissolve dead skin cells, treat dullness, and smooth out any unevenness – all without the abrasiveness. This makes it suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive and irritation-prone skin. There are currently two products in this line: the Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser ($17.25) and Gentle Exfoliating SA Lotion ($22.90), both of which come in sizeable 236ml bottles and can be used on both the face and body. The Cetaphil SkinLabs pop-up is located at 265 Beach Road, and is open from now till June 29 from 11am to 8pm. Entry is free. Find out more via Cetaphil’s Instagram page.

You’re probably thinking of the traditional Singaporean toast spread, but don’t be mistaken – this isn’t a mod-Sin establishment. Instead, Kaya is short for ‘izakaya’, so expect Japanese flavours with a bold modern twist. The restobar is located within The Standard, Singapore, a new boutique hotel in Orchard with Hollywood roots and art in every corner. The vibe  Forget the typical gritty smoke-filled izakayas where patrons are crammed in shoulder to shoulder. Kaya at The Standard is roomy and elegant with botanical wallpaper, rattan chairs, and plants cascading from the ceiling – mid-century meets tropical, if you will. For a more casual vibe, opt to sip and dine at the chill outdoor patio that’s shrouded in greenery. The food  Brace your palate for Japanese flavours like you’ve never experienced before. You can’t go wrong by starting with sharing a refreshing pakuchi salad ($14), a simple but addictive poached chicken and cabbage salad topped with cilantro, shiso and ume dressing. The ash karaage ($18), charcoal-grilled oyster-yaki ($32) and burrata no shoyu ($22) with honey shoyu jam and renkon chips are also good choices to split before digging into an indulgent kani meshi nabe ($68) – a stone pot rice dish brimming with snow crab, ikura and uni creme. Don’t leave without trying the sweet potato mont blanc ($16), the perfect autumnal treat of three types of Japanese sweet potato, pistachio sponge and chestnuts. The drink  Creative Japanese-inspired versions of classic coc

Relive the magic of your childhood days with a new Peter Rabbit-themed afternoon tea experience that's hopped its way into Singapore for a limited period of time. In homage to the beloved storybook series by acclaimed children's author Beatrix Potter, each indulgent set comes with sweet and savoury English garden-inspired nibbles – including those shaped like apples, a pot of flowers, and blueberry basket – and adorable themed decor that you can take home as souvenirs. Special care has also been taken to include bunny-friendly ingredients, such as soft seeds, fruits and vegetables. Best of all, you get to enjoy all of this in an elegant lounge on the 70th floor, with sweeping views of Singapore's landmarks and surrounding seas as a backdrop. Find out more about our experience at this Peter Rabbit afternoon tea.

Orchard Road’s newest hotel has recently opened to welcome guests, and it’s one with Hollywood roots. With a name like The Standard, there can only be one of two outcomes – it either sets the, well, standard for other hotels in Singapore’s central shopping district, or risks falling short of its ambitious name in an unfortunate case of irony (see also: café in Singapore called Average Service). Upon Googling images of the hotel along Orange Grove, I was initially a tad doubtful. I could already tell that this wasn’t a particularly sprawling hotel, and while modern as advertised, it didn’t seem to have any standout features – no gym, club lounge, spa and the like. Yet, curious to find out what exactly it is that makes The Standard brand so popular around the world with a presence in more than 10 cities including New York, Ibiza, and Miami, I packed a bag for a one-night stay with no expectations. The short verdict? Whoever was doing the initial stock photography for the hotel certainly didn’t do it justice, and there’s lots more to discover in person. Read on for our full review of The Standard, Singapore. About The Standard hotel group Photograph: Rachel Yohannan for Time OutThe very first Standard Hotel was unveiled along the Sunset Strip in Hollywood back in 1999. That debut branch has since closed as of a couple of years back, but the brand now exists in multiple cities. Each Standard property has its own unique touches, so no two are the same. For example, the one in Lond

If pastries and pensive moments are up your alley, you’re sure to fall in love with Nuldam Space, a café from Korea that’s opening its first international outlet in Singapore. Whether as part of a self-reflective solo outing, a first date idea, or a bonding activity with close friends, here’s where you can take the time to sit down, look inwards, and get comfortable with a bit of vulnerability as you pen a note to future you. Photograph: Nuldam Space Put your phones away; you’ll be using good old-fashioned pen and paper to write down your thoughts, before filing them away in an envelope using sealing wax. Once done, head on over to the giant letter wall featuring all 365 dates of the year, pick one of your choice for your letter to be mailed to you in the following year, and drop it off. Photograph: Nuldam Space As you get lost in your thoughts, munch on vegan bakes like cream-topped croffles, matcha-filled croissants, and kouign-amann in flavours like pistachio and the locally inspired kaya coconut. There’s also the signature vegan layered cake, available in seven flavours: signature cookies and cream, signature tiramisu, sweet potato, dark chocolate, matcha, roasted corn, and brown banana. Photograph: Nuldam Space The beverage line-up includes black sesame cream latte and matcha cream latte. The multi-hued elderflower ade is pretty popular in Korea, so hopefully that makes an appearance on Singapore’s menu as well. Nuldam Space’s first Singapore outlet will be opening

Planning future trips to Japan? You’ll soon need to remember to add one more item to your travel preparation checklist, because jetsetters from over 70 visa-exempt countries will eventually need to apply for a Japanese version of America’s ESTA. And nope, Singaporeans aren’t spared this time, despite having the most powerful passport in the world. Bummer. Our 90-day travel window remains, but we’ll first have to submit an online application covering trip details such as the purpose of travel and accommodation address. If you’re flagged as suspicious, your JESTA application could very well be rejected. Having a clean slate on your record, free from any criminal activity or overstaying abroad, would certainly help. Processing times can range from a few hours to a few days, which means spontaneous last-minute getaways to Japan may become a thing of the past. You’ll also have to factor in a little more vacation budget, as a JESTA admin fee is required at the point of application. At present, the cost of obtaining a JESTA has not yet been decided, but fingers crossed that it won’t be more than a meal at Ichiran Ramen. Though initially slated for 2030, the timeline for Japan’s JESTA programme has been brought forward to the fiscal year of 2028, which means that you can expect it to commence sometime between April 2028 and March 2029. This additional step sure strips away some level of convenience, but knowing just how much Singaporeans love Japan – with a record-breaking 691,100 of

It’s almost a yearly event at this point; Singapore’s public transport fares will undergo yet another round of hikes towards the end of 2025 for both bus and MRT train services. Starting from December 27, each leg of your daily commute could become up to 60 cents pricier, depending on the mode of payment. The 60-cent price increase applies specifically to cash fares for express bus services, which typically operate between neighbourhood estates and central locations in town, bypassing intermediate stops. We’d say that it’s still best to keep an EZ-Link card on you or pay via a contactless card or mobile wallet. However, card payments for express buses will also experience hikes of up to 50 cents for adults. As for regular buses and MRT trains, fares will be increased by up to 10 cents for adults, and up to 4 cents for students, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those holding workfare transport concession status. Cash fares for both modes of transport will be upped from 5 to 20 cents, depending on your fare category. Those taking private ride-hailing services haven’t been spared from the higher costs of transport either. This year, multiple cab companies increased their platform fees, with Gojek’s additional fees of up to $1.50 being the highest. On the bright side, commuters can soon look forward to the completion of the Circle Line loop, which will see three new MRT stations bringing greater accessibility to Keppel and Shenton Way. There will also be a new East

Quite a handful of exciting new hotel openings in Singapore’s town area are planned for the coming years – the ultra-luxe Aman Singapore and NoMad Hotel by Hilton are some that are set to stun. But much closer along the timeline is the upcoming Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Jurong, which will be welcoming guests for sleek stays in early 2026. A joint project by Marriott and Resorts World Sentosa – the latter of which also recently launched The Luxury Collection’s newest resort, The Laurus – Four Points by Sheraton Singapore, Jurong will take over what’s currently Genting Hotel Jurong. The 15-storey building sits within the business district of Jurong Gateway, with convenient proximity to Jurong East MRT Station on the North-South and East-West Lines, a.k.a the red and green lines. Eventual expansions of the MRT network will also make the hotel accessible via the Jurong Region Line and Cross-Island Line. Photograph: Marriott Those spending a night here can look forward to an outdoor pool, dining options, a gym, and Four Points’ signature Best Brews bar with local craft beers. As it’s primarily a business hotel providing easy access to the surrounding commercial area, plenty of event spaces for corporate functions are also part of the line-up of amenities. READ MORE Singapore is named one of the top holiday destinations in Asia in 2025 Singapore gets its very first Michelin Keys, with seven hotels named in 2025's global selection The 10 best-value travel destinations for

What is the Orionid meteor shower? Also known as the Orionids, the Orionid meteor shower is caused by debris from Halley’s Comet. As these bits of matter heat up and hurtle towards the Earth, they create and leave behind glowing streaks in the sky. Typically, you’d be able to see 10 to 20 Orionids during this annual meteor shower that’s said to be one of the most magnificent in existence. The Orionids are named as such because they appear to come from a point that’s within the Orion constellation. Is a meteor the same as a shooting star? Yes, a meteor and a shooting star are basically the same thing, and the two terms can be used interchangeably. When is the Orionid meteor shower appearing in Singapore’s skies? According to Science Centre Singapore’s Observatory, the Orionid meteor shower will be active for almost two months, from October 2 and November 7. However, the peak happens between October 21 and 22. The best time to view this phenomenon is during the wee hours past midnight, especially at 2am. Can the Orionid meteor shower be seen with the naked eye? Yes, you can watch the Orionid meteor shower without special equipment, but it wouldn’t hurt to have binoculars, a telescope, or a DSLR camera with a mega zoom lens on standby. Of course, whether you’re actually able to see the meteors would highly depend on weather conditions, so you’re most in luck if the skies are clear and cloudless. You should also venture to a darker area away from city lights. Just a heads up – th

We’re off to see the witches, the wonderful witches of Oz at Sentosa – because the rumours are true. Universal Studios Singapore will transform into the Emerald City with a glittering premiere of the upcoming Wicked: For Good movie, and with it comes the grand arrival of Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and other stars from the cast. Here’s all you need to know about the red carpet – or should we say, yellow brick road – event, including information on when and how you can catch a glimpse of your idols in the flesh. When is the ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere event in Singapore? Mark your calendar for November 13, 2025 for the Asia-Pacific premiere of Wicked: For Good in Singapore. Where is the venue for Singapore’s ‘Wicked: For Good’ premiere? The event will be held at Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa. Specifically, the movie premiere will be screened at the Pantages Hollywood Theatre within the theme park itself, after a handprint ceremony featuring the stars. Which members of the ‘Wicked: For Good’ cast will be coming to Singapore? Expect to see actors Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum in attendance as they promote the film sequel of the famous Broadway musical. The movie’s director, Jon M. Chu – also responsible for Crazy Rich Asians – will be making an appearance as well. How to get tickets to the ‘Wicked: For Good’ red carpet event? Tickets to Universal Studios Singapore for the Wicked: For Good premiere day are available for pu

Hitting up the same ol’ clubs for Halloween becoming too much of a mainstream routine for you? Switch up the beat at Pasir Panjang Power Station with Deadly Disco, said to be Singapore's biggest Halloween party of the year. The rave on October 31 is a joint project by Collective Minds, Groove Top, Manifest, Fomo Homo, and Soul Collective – so you already know it’s going to be unapologetically loud and lively. Headlining the EDM-focused event is a stellar line-up: Romy from The xx, together with Flight Facilities, Hot Chip, Hunee, Emma SS, and Zafirah. The entire venue will be bathed in an eerie crimson with swirling fog and candles, and make sure you look up – aerial performers will be bringing a theatrical edge as they swoop over the crowd like wandering spirits. Worry not about hungry ghosts, as there will be themed food booths with spooky hour promos of 50 percent off from 8pm to 10pm. Come donned in your best ghoulish glamour and stand to win up to $5,000 worth of prizes in the best-dressed competition. Deadly Disco starts at 8pm on Halloween night. Early bird tickets are priced at $98. Get yours here. READ MORE Zouk is hosting a free-entry pet-friendly flea market and daytime party with DJ sets, all ages welcome Singapore's first-ever Renaissance Faire is happening at Fort Canning Park in early 2026 A stage adaptation of Roald Dahl's 'BFG' is stomping its way to Singapore in 2026

Hear ye, hear ye: A Renaissance Faire is springing up in Singapore for the first time ever, so don thy finest flowy dresses and feathered hats, and gather at Fort Canning Park for a weekend of fun and feasting with fellow lords and ladies. It’s exactly what it sounds like – Ren Faire SG is a hobby festival that revives the Renaissance era in a village-like setting, often with a marketplace, busking performances, craft stalls, and games. Though not mandatory, a significant draw of such events is dressing up, where enthusiasts come decked out in elaborate outfits inspired by the time period. Don’t be surprised to see attendees engaging in pretend combat on the grounds, while dressed up as fairies, bards, knights, and noble folk. That would be LARPing (Live Action Role-Playing), which, in simple terms, is basically like Dungeons & Dragons played in real life – starring yourself and other community members. Tables will also be set up for those who prefer to sit down and play the game without the theatrics. Other highlights of this edition of Ren Faire SG include hand-carved leather cuffs, tarot card reading, spell jar workshops, and crystal jewellery. Whether you’re already deep into this historical fantasy-inspired subculture or are simply a curious adventurer, all are welcome to make merry at the outdoor event. Who knows, you might just find your new guild here. Ren Faire SG is happening at Fort Canning’s Old Married Soldiers Quarter from 2pm to 9pm on January 31 to February 1,

Tell a Singaporean that a Japanese F&B brand is opening locally, and they’ll likely be lining up for it in no time. Following beef omakase restaurant Nikuya Tanaka and spicy ‘devil’ ramen chain Kikanbo, the latest one landing on our shores is Udon Shin, a noodle specialty store that handmakes its strands from scratch. Its original store in Shibuya, Tokyo, is as humble as it gets with a row of six counter seats and a couple of small tables against the opposite wall – it probably can’t fit more than 12 people at any one time. Yet, the tiny restaurant draws hours-long queues, so much so that even a JPY2000 (~S$17) reservation fee – which does not go towards offsetting the cost of food, mind you – isn’t enough to put off hungry fans. It doesn’t help that it’s the only outlet in all of Japan.  Photograph: Udon Shin Udon Shin serves simple combinations of udon with toppings like soy sauce, butter, pepper and soft-boiled egg, or raw egg with seasoned cod roe and seaweed. Its cold versions would be especially welcome in Singapore’s climate. However, we hear that the carbonara udon with a slab of tempura bacon is also immensely popular, having gone viral on Instagram. Photograph: Udon Shin Udon Shin will be opening in Singapore in November 2025 as the establishment’s first international expansion, though another branch will be set up in Arizona in early 2026. Look out for updates on Instagram via @udonshin.sg. READ MORE Mamma Mia Focaccia: This Italian deli opens on October 21 wit

The best way to beat post-vacation blues? Have another holiday locked in, of course. And future you will thank you for snagging discounted flight tickets at Singapore Airlines and Scoot’s ‘Time To Fly’ travel fair, an annual event full of unbeatable airfares. This October 2025, over 380,000 flights at slashed prices are waiting to be snapped up – valid for trips with SIA from January to September 2026, and Scoot from November 2025 to October 2026. This includes promo fares for Singapore Airlines’ famed business class as well, so it’s your chance to live the high life at hopefully more approachable prices. Travel bugs can check out the sale online from October 24 to November 6, but you’ll be rewarded for braving the crowds at the physical travel fair held at Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre (halls 401 to 403) from October 24 to 26, as there are plenty of additional in-person perks to look forward to. These include a slew of giveaways, with a lucky grand prize winner receiving not one but three pairs of SIA Business Class tickets to Beijing, Manila, and Sydney, with hotels included. Scoot vouchers and Business Class flights to Denpasar, Osaka, and the Maldives are also part of the prize pool. On top of that, the top Kris+ spender at the fair will win SIA tickets to Phuket, while the top Pelago spender will win a flight to Melbourne – accommodations included for both. Find out more via Singapore Airlines’ and Scoot’s websites from October 24 onwards. READ MORE The

Singapore’s National Gallery is celebrating its 10th birthday this year, and you’re all invited to the bash. And 10 is a magic number indeed, as the gallery will be extending its opening hours from 10am to 10pm during this weekend extravaganza on November 15 and 16, 2025. Arts and culture vultures can delight in experiencing all of the National Gallery’s 10-over exhibitions for free during this period, with Into the Modern – Southeast Asia’s largest French Impressionist exhibition – opening just in time for the occasion. It’s not a party without some sick beats. Don your dressy best and join in on a family-friendly daytime rave within the Gallery’s Supreme Court Terrace, where Afrobeat music and matcha will fuel the fun. By night, it’s the Keppel Centre for Art Education’s (KCAE) turn to host a shindig, with an adults-only after-dark soirée featuring a live DJ and immersive installations. Support local brands at the Birthday Bash Market, with exclusive collaboration goods specially produced for this milestone. Examples include artwork-inspired chocolates by Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie, and jewellery by Curious Creatures designed as an ode to the Gallery’s grand architecture, among plenty of others. Other highlights include face painting and birthday cake-themed sensory play for the kiddos; a birthday mixtape that visitors can contribute to as it plays throughout the Gallery’s halls; art dialogue sessions hosted by celebrities like Gurmit Singh and Shazza; a community photography

It’s been a trying time for local businesses lately – closures of Flor Patisserie, Madeleine's Original Portuguese Egg Tart, and Café Lilac by Whisking Bakes have hit hard, while chain outlets from abroad are populating the island faster than we can say, “another one?”. But it’s not just an issue in the F&B industry. The arts scene is also fighting its fair share of battles, with The Projector, Epigram Books’ last physical store, and Cathay Cineplexes all closing down for good within this year. Which is why it’s more important than ever to show love to our favourite homegrown haunts. The National Heritage Board (NHB) has just introduced the SG Heritage Business Scheme, in an effort to “celebrate and support exemplar local heritage businesses”. The criteria? Other than the base requirement of having at least 30 years of history in Singapore – while remaining in the same site or area for those three decades or more – these local businesses need to “preserve our rich heritage”, “have strong community ties”, and be “committed to sustaining their businesses”. They should also have at least 30 percent local equity held directly or indirectly by Singaporeans or Singapore Permanent Residents. According to NHB, recipients of SG Heritage Business status will gain greater brand awareness through government-supported marketing schemes, special storefront plaques, and digital logos, as well as “support for business improvement and transformation efforts”. As part of the initiative, 42 loc