Xiao Qing Wan

In Singapore, food is often the language of love. Whether you're looking for casual coffee and bites for a blind date, a cosy dinner place to impress a loved one, or somewhere special to celebrate Valentine's day, here are some dining options in Singapore – and get this, they're Muslim-friendly too. Now, let's get in the mood for love.  RECOMMENDED: The best halal restaurants and cafés in Singapore and The best halal cake shops in Singapore

Singapore's event calendar heats up this May with a blockbuster line-up of art exhibitions, sports events, and cultural festivals. This week, don't miss the immersive exhibition centred on iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo or enchanting dance of 'Northern Lights' at a new outdoor art installation at Gardens by the Bay. World-class athletes from rugby and golf spheres are also descending on our little island to duke it out for titles, amidst a backdrop of live performances and family-friendly activities. From jazz festivals to rock concerts, the music scene is making itself heard too. Just read on to discover all the best events happening in our city this week.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Singapore after dark and The best art exhibitions in Singapore    

When it comes to Japanese bread, there’s something that strikes a distinct chord – it’s sweeter, softer, and leaves us craving more. It could be the attention to detail with intricately layered cream rolls or even unique fillings like red bean or matcha. As much as we enjoy picking up a fresh loaf of bread at Singapore’s best bakeries or devouring the best sandwiches to try, these seven Japanese bakeries have left their well-deserved mark on Singapore’s food scene. RECOMMENDED: The best Japanese restaurants in Singapore and The best cake shops in Singapore

We get it, you've scoured hundreds of lists similar to this one, and yet the perfect present is nowhere in sight. Don't worry, the search is over – whether your partner's a coffee enthusiast or a fitness nut, we've curated a list of gifts that will surely put a smile on his face. As an added bonus, we've also included date ideas that work well as an alternative, or if you wanted splurge on your man and lavish him with both a physical gift and an unforgettable experience. RECOMMENDED: The best Valentine's Day gifts for her and The most romantic restaurants in Singapore

Like New York City, Hong Kong and Tokyo, Singapore’s a city that never sleeps. With its bustling nightlife, dazzling city lights as well as malls and eateries open around the clock or till late, there’s always something to do, even when night falls. We’ve rounded up some ideas to make the best of your time under the stars – from relaxing at a 24 hour spa and bar hopping to challenging your friends to an intense round of Catan or Monopoly. RECOMMENDED: The best free things to do in Singapore at night and The best supper spots in Singapore for late-night dining

With the announcement of Pope Francis’ upcoming visit to Singapore, this year promises to be filled with significant events for our sunny island. Pope Francis’ visit will mark the second time a Catholic pope visits Singapore, with the first papal visit occurring almost 40 years ago, when the late Pope John Paul II made a brief stopover in Singapore in 1986. His five-hour visit consisted of a papal mass held at the National Stadium, with around 70,000 attendees. With Pope Francis’ upcoming visit expecting to draw a huge crowd, we’ve put together this guide that will cover everything to ensure you’re well-prepared before his arrival, including ticket costs and where to get them. RECOMMENDED: Yip Yew Chong paints his final mural for Lau Pa Sat’s 130th anniversary and Tatsu Maker: American linocut printmaker creates intricate prints of local hawkers and food vendors When will Pope Francis be visiting Singapore in 2024? Pope Francis will be visiting Singapore from September 11 to 13, 2024. When will Pope Francis' mass be held in Singapore? Pope Francis’ mass will most likely be held on September 12, 2024. How much do tickets cost, and where can I get them? Tickets are free of charge, and are subject to availability and venue limitations. Tickets are most likely acquired through a balloting system held across all Catholic churches in Singapore. As ticketing details have yet to be released, be sure to keep an eye out on this space for updates. Will Pope Francis be visiting other cou

With summer year-long in Singapore, there's always an excuse to indulge in some ice cream or take a dip in a public pool. But nothing brings out your inner kid quite like tall water slides and wave pools. To amp up the thrill-o-meter, many water parks are bringing out the big guns like rapid flume rides, high-speed water slides, and an inflatable obstacle course à la Wipeout. For something less energetic, you can switch to the various lazy rivers, as well as wet play areas which are more free-and-easy. RECOMMENDED: The best public pools in Singapore and the best beaches in Singapore

Nothing beats the feeling of the wind in your hair and a tipple in your hand at the city's best rooftop bars. After all, there's plenty of real estate in the city of skyscrapers for rooftop bars. Take drinking to the next level (literally) as you enjoy your favourite cocktail on cloud nine. There are institutions like Smoke & Mirrors, which offer an unrivalled view of the Padang and Marina Bay Sands or climb higher to LeveL33, the world's tallest urban micro-brewery for a fresh pint and great bites. At Mr Stork, you get a pretty neat view of our gorgeous city skyline from your teepee huts – we suggest heading up during sunsets – so whip out your phones to immortalise the moment on the 'gram. RECOMMENDED: The 50 best bars in Singapore and the most romantic bars in Singapore

In addition to the fantastic art exhibitions in Singapore, theatre and dance performances offer an excellent alternative to unwind from the grind and broaden your horizons. In the months ahead, look forward to a packed calendar of award-winning Broadway musicals, timeless ballets, and laugh-out-loud physical comedy shows. These delve into diverse topics – the stresses that arise from Singapore’s education system, tragic romances, and our obsession with screens. Just sink into a plush seat and prepare to be captivated by these spectacular performances. RECOMMENDED: 10 brilliant music festivals in Asia you don’t want to miss and The best new movies in Singapore to catch

Beyond Singapore’s glimmering skyscrapers, there is a twilight zone of ghost towns, decaying mansions, and wartime relics. Before they were left to nature’s devices, these forgotten places were buzzing with life. Today, they’re a land of rust and glory accompanied by interesting stories from the past – a utopia for urban explorers. Some of them, on the other hand, are attached to the stuff of nightmares – a hotspot for ghostbusters. While some are open to the public, most of them are closed off, so do not attempt to trespass. The closure might just be a blessing in disguise. RECOMMENDED: The best hidden trails in Singapore to explore and 15 hidden gems you never knew existed in Singapore

There's a time for dining with big groups and a time for eating on a budget, but when you're planning for an anniversary or a romantic date with your special someone, it's best to take it up a notch with a proper sit-down dinner with all the trimmings. Here are our picks of the best romantically lit, value-for-money restaurants to wine and dine in Singapore. Let's get into the mood for love.  RECOMMENDED: The most romantic bars in Singapore and The 50 best restaurants in Singapore you must try

Don’t be an April’s fool by staying home all month. This month is buzzing with exciting events. For starters, there's one public holiday to look forward to – Hari Raya Puasa on April 10. That means some good Eid feasts. Then there’s Songkran, which is a Thai New Year celebration that takes place from April 13 to 16. While it’s not an official public holiday here in Singapore, Wild Wild Wet is bringing the splashing good fun to you right here in the Lion City. Speaking of celebrations, paint the town orange with the debut of a new party series by Aperol Singapore. Or shop till you drop at the Spring/Summer edition of Boutique Fairs as well as smaller but no less interesting farmers markets and vintage fairs around town. What are you waiting for? Check out our roundup of the best events, and start planning an amazing April now. RECOMMENDED: 101 things to do in Singapore and New and upcoming attractions in Singapore to check out in 2024

There’s never a shortage of Thai food in our city, with people flocking to various eateries around the city to get their fix of pad thai or a glass of Thai milk tea. While these joints tend to be more on the casual side, Nakarin elevates Thai cuisine without compromising affordability and quality. Helmed by Head Chef Thanya, Nakarin’s handcrafted menu offers a blend of both traditional and contemporary Thai cuisine. Enjoy a taste of both in the restaurant’s three course lunch set that will only set you back $25. Embark on your culinary journey with a serving of miang kham – a royal betel leaf wrap with roasted coconut, small dried shrimp, and salmon roe. For your main, choose from the tantalising khao yum, a southern Thai herbal rice salad; the spicy khao soi with a kampong chicken drumstick; and the decadent kho pad poo – fried rice with crab meat. Finish your meal with a sweet treat such as the melon sago or the mango sherbet with spicy sour plum powder. Alongside the set, chow down on delectable appetisers like the spicy century egg with crispy dried shrimp ($18), and pomelo salad ($18). You can also find Thai classics like moo hong ($15), southern style pork stew, and kaeng nuar ($25), a beef curry with turkey berry. Don’t forget to get an iced Thai milk tea ($5) or Thai bandung lime soda ($5) to pair with your meal. You can find out more about Nakarin on its official website.

While there’s no shortage of Peranakan restaurants in Singapore, it definitely doesn’t hurt to have a new one pop up every now and then, especially when it serves quality Peranakan dishes. Nana Dolly’s is a newly opened restaurant located along Perak Road, and was created to share the owner’s favourite Peranakan dishes from his childhood. The menu features familiar family recipes including nonya chicken curry ($16) and sambal brinjal ($7), as well as dishes with a modern twist like the laksa pasta ($10) and an otak croffle ($15) with a sunny side up egg and sambal mayonnaise. Don’t miss out on Nana Dolly’s signature dish, mengkabo – succulent pork belly braised in a spicy, sweet, and tangy tamarind sauce. Choose between the sharing plate ($16) for a communal feast, or savour the mengkabo don ($15.90) solo, a rice bowl version with achar, sambal egg, and keropok ikan. Finish your meal with one of Nana Dolly’s innovative desserts and drinks, such as the kaya gula melaka croffle ($10), or the chendol soft serve ($9.90). Coffee lovers should try the ondeh ondeh latte (from $7), where the classic latte is infused with gula melaka for a sweeter and more indulgent drink that isn’t overly sugary. For something more refreshing, opt for Orchard Garden ($7), a cucumber-based mocktail complete with mint and soda – perfect for sweltering days. Those seeking a boozy treat can enjoy the classic Singapore Sling ($14), or the carrot-based Sunset Breeze ($14). Find out more about Nana Dolly’s

Stepping into Bites & Brews is like stepping into a maximalist’s dream come true – the walls are adorned with Peranakan-style window frames, various tiles with flower motifs, and rustic furniture that completes the cottagecore aesthetic. As we sat down, we marvelled at the pretty water cups and seemingly handmade ceramics that were used to serve our food, adding an artisanal touch to our dining experience. Hailing all the way from Shanghai, the popular restaurant has expanded to Singapore after finding success in its first international outlet in India. Bites & Brews specialises in fusion food, epitomising the concept of “East meets West”. This can be seen in its extensive menu, which includes innovative dishes like a mapo tofu lasagna ($21), the B&B cheeseburger burger ($28) that incorporates kimchi jam and spicy mayo for that extra kick, and a jianbing breakfast burrito ($16). The breakfast burrito proved to be a delightful surprise, with the jianbing enveloping a spring onion omelette, BBQ beef brisket, bean sprouts, and green chilli – all tied together with hoisin sauce and spicy mayo. Eating the burrito was a bit of a messy affair, with the sauce and meat juices running out the moment you bite into it, but it’s a testament to how juicy and flavourful the burrito actually is. Alongside food, Bites & Brews also serves up specialty drinks with seven different lemonade options, and interesting concoctions like the “tom yum” coconut drink ($12) made with coconut water, kaff

It’s not everyday that you get to hear religious music from different communities all over the world in one place, but the upcoming A Tapestry of Sacred Music, presented by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, will open that door. Religious music is often associated with traditional chants and a sense of solemnity, however this experience will defy such expectations and showcase the beauty of holy music in a way everyone can enjoy, regardless of personal beliefs. Celebrating its 15th edition since launching in 2009, A Tapestry of Sacred Music has since brought to light the sacred art forms of 56 communities – from African-American gospel music, to ceremonial Japanese sword dances, and Indian hymns played on traditional instruments. In this year’s edition from April 12 to 14, Esplanade will be transforming its performance venues into immersive settings reminiscent of religious spaces. For example, the Forecourt Garden will be converted into a Balinese temple stage, where you can witness the ritual drama of wayang wong and iconic kecak chants up close. All performances are free of charge, but some will require registration. Find out more and register here.  

As the temperature rises in Singapore, ice cream shops are very much welcome, even more so when they boast an aesthetically pleasing interior. The newest addition to this list is Glasshouse Creamery, located at The Alps Residences. The store, previously known as Around, another ice cream parlour, has transformed under new ownership. The gorgeous glasshouse now sports a bohemian chic aesthetic: walls are plastered with botanical-themed wallpaper and the space is furnished with rattan furniture and lush plants to match. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in ample sunlight while keeping the interior pleasantly cool. The menu has also been overhauled to serve up a wide variety of ice cream flavours and finger food. A single scoop of ice cream starts from $4.90, where you can get classic flavours like pistachio, honey lavender, and sencha. Pair your ice cream with one of Glasshouse Creamery’s mochi waffles, which has a crisp exterior while remaining fluffy and soft on the inside starting from $7.90. We recommend going for the duo set ($15.90) which includes two scoops of ice cream on a mochi waffle to get more bang for your buck. What sets Glasshouse Creamery apart from other ice cream parlours is its wide selection of specialty teas, with interesting names such as Lost In The Woods ($7.90) and Pearl Of The Orient ($7.90). If you prefer minty and fruity tones in your tea, go for Alchemy Of Plants ($7.90), a raspberry tea consisting of mint, oat straw, and ginger. For those who enjoy flo

It’s not often we recommend making a beeline for a café’s bathroom, but Café Gyoen’s subway-inspired one is undeniably worth checking out. While the rest of the café takes on a minimalist aesthetic, complete with white chairs and tables with glass tops, the bathroom is decorated to mimic the subway stations and trains seen in Tokyo. The toilet signs are in the style of the various signs you can find in a subway station, even including ‘directions’ to the Oedo and Ginza lines. The bathroom replicates the train itself, with tinted mirrors acting as the train’s windows. Besides the typical café fare like gelato (from $4.50), waffles (from $15.50) and croissants ($5), Café Gyoen offers a variety of Japanese dishes. Try the teishoku big breakfast (from $18) – a Japanese take on classic big breakfast meals. Each set comes with sweet and fluffy tamagoyaki, onigiri, miso soup, and a main of your choice, ranging from crispy deep-fried karaage ($18) to an indulgent soft shell crab ($24). Other standout dishes include the zangi don ($16.90), a deep-fried marinated chicken simmered in egg over rice, and the tori karaage curry ($16.90). Do note that the kitchen is closed from 2.30pm to 6pm, so be sure to avoid going around that time if you want to try the café’s food menu. Don’t miss out on Café Gyoen’s unique array of drinks including a black sesame latte ($7), and a Kyoho grape float ($7). If you crave a bolder coffee experience, be sure to try the kohi jelly oat latte ($8.50). The ho

If you ever find yourself in the east, stop by Monk’s Brew Club for a cup of coffee. The first floor  acts as a chill place to hang out with your friends, while the second floor serves as a communal working space where you can have a productive session. Instead of having to buy a drink every few hours to ensure you won’t get kicked out by the staff, you can book a seat at the communal working space starting from $10 for a half-day session.  The coworking area is well-equipped with power sockets and high speed WiFi to ensure that you can go about your work day without any worries. Each session comes with a free coffee or tea, excluding special brews and filtered coffees. However, if you’re willing to splurge a little, do try the special brews such as the Tre Fontane ($10), a coffee mixed with a lemon zest-infused soda and topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re a fan of alcohol, you’ll be pleased to know that Monk’s Brew Club also offers bespoke cocktails like Eye Opener ($20), an cold brew coffee-infused rum with coffee syrup, and Senor Curry ($20), a tequila infused with curry leaves and shaken with lime and agave syrup. After all, nothing gets the juices flowing like a glass of liquid courage. You can find out more about Monk’s Brew Club and book a slot here.

If you’re looking to broaden your coffee knowledge or become a barista someday, head over to Coexist Coffee’s upcoming coffee fair. The fair will feature products by popular roasteries including 20 Grams Coffee Roastery, Dutch Colony Coffee, and  Huggs Coffee. Those looking for a more sustainable option while still enjoying the coffee taste will be pleased to know that Prefer, a beanless coffee brand, will also be selling their brews. Shop from a wide selection of coffee beans and brewing  equipment to ensure you pull the perfect shot of espresso every time. The coffee fair will also feature a Brewers’ Throwdown, where participants will brew a cup of coffee using the same beans, water, and grinder. The coffee will then be judged based on its flavour, aroma, balance, acidity, and overall presentation – this is a competition you do not want to miss. Those looking for a relaxing time can head over to the Brew Bar, where Coexist Coffee will be serving complimentary cups of filtered coffee for you to enjoy. There, you can learn more about coffee culture, brewing techniques, and connect with other like-minded coffee enthusiasts. Coexist Coffee’s coffee fair is free to the public, but registration is required. You can find out more about the fair and register here.

As part of Marquee’s 5th anniversary celebration, famous K-pop soloist Chung Ha will be performing on April 13th. The singer shot to stardom during her time on the competition show Produce 101, where she ranked fourth before debuting in the girl group I.O.I. in 2016. Since then, she’s gone on to release hits such as “Gotta Go”, “Roller Coaster”, and “Snapping”. Chung Ha’s last appearance in Singapore was 2019, so don’t miss out on her performance happening at Marquee this year. Tickets have already gone on sale, and with  limited slots available for an exclusive group photo opportunity with the idol herself. Marquee’s 5th anniversary celebration is a three-day-long affair, so be sure to check out its website to find out more.

Initially a home-based business, The Flour Department takes pride in crafting innovative fusion pastries. For those who are unfamiliar with The Flour Department, its founder studied the art of pastries at a culinary school in France, and came back to Singapore to start her own business in 2015. The Flour Department opened its first physical store along Upper Cross Street in 2022, and has recently moved to Everton, where the café boasts an all-pink interior, as seen in its pink walls, countertops, and seating.  Don’t expect to always find the same bakes at The Flour Department, as the café switches up its menu every week to keep things fresh. As of writing, The Flour Department has released a line of spring-themed bakes, with its items primarily featuring the colours pink and green. This week’s menu includes a new matcha cookie bagel sandwich with a pistachio praline and burnt basque cheesecake filling ($14), and another bagel sandwich filled with matcha tangyuan, strawberry cream cheese, and dark chocolate truffles ($14). Alongside the new inclusions, popular bakes are also back this week, including the banana brownie peanut butter cake tart ($12.80) which has a soft banana cake chiffon in between the layers of peanut butter cream and dark chocolate brownies with a delicious crust at the bottom. You can find out more about The Flour Department and receive updates on their menu here.

J-culture fans, it’s time to mark your calendar as Japan’s most esteemed production house, Kyodo Tokyo, will be making its regional debut in Singapore this June. Embrace the vibrant energy of the charming city that is Tokyo through Tokyo ~the city of music and love~, a captivating one-of-a-kind song and dance spectacular starring, produced and directed by multi award-winning Japanese actor and singer, Yu Shirota. Experience a fusion of musical genres and dance performances in this dazzling production, featuring an eclectic mix of J-pop favourites, classic Disney tunes and Broadway hits, all curated to embody the spirit of Tokyo. Joining Yu Shirota are J-pop sensations miwa, RIOSKE, yuzu, and rising star Rainy。– along with Singaporean singer-actor, Nathan Hartono. The show will be held on 22 June, 2024 at Esplanade Theatre. Find out more and book your tickets here.

Despite the numerous cafés scattered throughout our sunny island, we are always looking for new coffee spots to simply kick back and relax. Hidden amongst a block of flats at Alexandra, Kyuukei Coffee is a peaceful café with a minimalistic interior similar to that of Japanese Zen aesthetics. You may recognise Kyuukei Coffee’s adorable cat mascot from last year’s The Christmas Atelier and other events, where people mainly bought their coffee from a little coffee cart. The brand finally opened a physical café last November, but its coffee cart service is still up and running. Kyuukei Coffee serves up toasties and pastries alongside coffee brews, but the café can only hold up to around 10 people due to its small size, so be sure to come early to avoid the queues, or opt for takeaway instead. You can get the classic ham, cheese, and tomato toastie for $15, or spice it up with seck ($15), a sourdough toastie with spam, kimchi, and gochujang mayo. The pastries are also made in-house, with the canelés ($4.50) and sticky buns ($6) being popular choices amongst patrons. The café frequently hosts coffee omakase sessions ($40 per person), where you will get to taste delicious brews not available on their regular menu. The omakase includes two shots per origin, served two ways, as well two side dishes that complement the coffees. While an omakase typically means chef’s choice, the staff will gladly cater to your dietary restrictions if needed. These private sessions have limited slots, s

Goodbyes are always hard, but it’s especially difficult when a beloved café closes. Homeground Coffee Roasters at Teo Hong Road will be closing its doors at the end of April, six years since the café first opened at Joo Chiat. Owners Elysia Tan and Ho Ming Tay have decided to close the café to take a break to reevaluate the Homeground brand moving forward. Homeground first started in 2017 as an online shop that held occasional pop-ups to bring together coffee enthusiasts. The community eventually grew, leading to the opening of its first café at Joo Chiat in 2018. The café moved to Outram Park in 2022 and introduced delectable treats like the Level Up Kaya Toast, consisting of homemade kaya spread on milk bread, served with sous vide eggs and French butter. Alongside the café, Homeground also introduced the Playground – a brew bar where coffee enthusiasts could try their hand at brewing various coffees with a variety of equipment. While Homeground Coffee Roasters will be closing down, the roastery at Kim Chuan Drive as well as its online store will remain open. The owners also ensured patrons that this is not the end for the café, but rather the start of a new beginning as they work on realigning the Homeground brand to their new vision. To celebrate the closure with a bang, Homeground Coffee Roasters is currently collaborating with Bird Bird by Artichoke, and will be serving up delicious Thai food to pair with Homeground’s signature coffees. Stop by during lunch and dinner t

Most folks would probably know Little Shop of Horrors from the 1986 film, which was a musical-movie adaptation of the off-Broadway musical that was an adaptation of the 1960 film – whew, that was confusing. For those who are not familiar, Little Shop of Horrors follows the story of Seymour, a florist on Skid Row, whose discovery of a mysterious plant he names Audrey II after his crush, Audrey, brings newfound success to his struggling flower shop. However, as Audrey II has an insatiable appetite for human flesh, Seymour grapples with a moral dilemma: continue feeding the plant to maintain his prosperity, or find a way to stop its murderous rampage before it’s too late. It tells the timeless tale of ambition and desire in a comedic and engaging manner, offering catchy rock tunes with darker undertones. Songs like Feed Me capture this essence, with Audrey II justifying murder to Seymour amid an irresistibly snappy beat. Director TJ Taylor’s iteration largely embraces this juxtaposition, preserving the essence of the original Little Shop of Horrors. Photograph: Poh Yu Khing This production features a star-studded cast, featuring award-winning actor Andrew Marko as Seymour, powerhouse vocalist Vanessa Kee as Audrey, and founder of Honey Queen Production, Honey Gluttony, voicing Audrey II. TJ Taylor also takes on the role of Mr Mushnik – the very same role that initially propelled him into the world of musical theatre back in 2006. The cast embodies their characters in the best

There are three more long weekends this year, which is your cue to start planning a refreshing getaway from the city. And if you’re not yet playing the miles game, let us tell you that there’s nothing more satisfying than redeeming a free flight or upgrade. That’s where the UOB Lady’s Card comes in. One of the first lady’s cards in Southeast Asia, it’s now in its 35th year. To celebrate, UOB has relaunched the card with a fresh new design, new benefits, and exclusive regional deals – perfect for the shopaholic travellers among us. Earn up to 10 miles per dollar The new UOB Lady’s card has an attractively high earn rate. At baseline, you can earn up to 10x UNI$ (that’s about four miles per dollar) for every five dollars spent in your chosen rewards category, no minimum spend required. Categories include fashion, dining, travel, beauty, and more, and you’re free to change up your preferred category every quarter. Outside your rewards category, you still get UNI$1 for every five bucks spent. Here’s where things get supercharged. You can earn up to 25X UNI$ for every five dollars spent if you’re a UOB Lady’s Card holder and have a UOB Lady’s Savings Account – that’s equivalent to 10 miles per dollar. Basically, UOB rewards you with bonus UNI$ based on the monthly average balance in your savings account. You just need at least $10,000 saved, with more UNI$ bonus awarded the more you park in the account (see table below).  Photograph: UOB It's not just about the miles There are o

K-pop fans are in for a treat this year, with popular groups and artists like IU, NCT Dream, and Aespa scheduled to perform in Singapore. To add on to the ever-growing list of concerts happening on our sunny island, Hwasa will be performing at The Star Theatre on June 22, 2024, as part of her first fan concert tour, titled Twits – a nod to both her solo debut single and affectionate nickname for her fans.  The powerhouse vocalist first debuted as part of renowned girl group Mamamoo, where she gained popularity due to her unique vocals, spirited personality, and unwavering confidence. Since then, she has gone on to launch her solo career, with her debut single Twit topping South Korean Gaon’s (now known as Circle Chart) music charts in the top three categories – Gaon Digital, Gaon Download, and Gaon Streaming. Hwasa’s successful solo debut has also led her to win the esteemed Best Solo Artist Award at the Golden Disc Awards, and Best Dance Performance Solo at the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA). Jam out to your favourite hits by Hwasa including Maria, Physical, and I Love My Body at Twits. Besides Singapore, the singer will also be performing in Seoul, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Tickets are priced from $138 to $268, and will be available for purchase on April 19, 2024, at noon via Ticketmaster. READ MORE The best music concerts and festivals in SingaporeKorean singer-actress IU will be performing in Singapore as part of her H.E.R. World TourDecommissioned SMRT train carriage is bei

Fans of J-pop will have heard about Atarashii Gakko!, a new generation female group that subverts the stereotypical image of a girl group. Atarashii Gakko! will be embarking on their world tour, and beginning their Asia leg in Bangkok, followed by Hong Kong, Taipei, and Singapore.  Atarashii Gakko!, translated to “new school” in Japanese, defies the typical girl group image by sporting sailor uniforms with long skirts and pulled-up socks, similar to the style of Japanese students from the 70s and 80s. Their music breaks away from the conventional hyper-pop themes, instead blending modern J-pop with elements of rap, punk, and Showa-era kayokyoku. The group also choreographs their own dances, infusing Japanese butoh dance, heavy metal headbanging, and street dancing to create bold and expressive movements that have been captivating audiences. The group will be performing in Singapore at The Theatre at Mediacorp on June 29, 2024. To purchase tickets, you can sign up for Live Nation’s free membership and gain access to the exclusive presale happening on Thursday, March 21, 2024 from 2pm to 11.59pm. The general sale will be available from March 22, 2024, from 2pm onwards via Ticketmaster.  Find out more about Atarashii Gakko! and their upcoming concerts here. READ MORE The best music concerts and festivals in SingaporeSingapore Cable Car’s new futuristic SkyOrb Cabins to take guests from March 20Singapore Airlines’ premium economy class gets a boost with new dining options and ame

Set aside some money for a trip to Universal Studios Singapore as Naruto: The Gallery will be making its global debut starting next week, March 28 2024. This exhibition is in line with Naruto’s 20th anniversary, and allows fans to experience the evolution of the beloved anime series first hand. Naruto: The Gallery will bring to life the iconic world of shinobi (ninja) created by Masashi Kishimoto, and feature a miniature recreation of Konohagakure, as well as exclusive video works of iconic scenes from Naruto. There will also be a photo booth at the end of the exhibition for fans to take pictures with the iconic Naruto characters. Official merchandise will be sold alongside the exhibition, including the 20th anniversary collection of tin badges, tote bags, and furoshiki (wrapping cloths). You can also chow down on Naruto-themed food at the special pop-up Naruto: The Gallery Café located at KT’s Grill. Expect to find dishes like Naruto’s favourite Ichiraku ramen, and Sasuke’s fire meatballs on the menu. The exhibition will be running from March 28 to June 30 2024 from 11am to 6pm, and will be included with regular admission to Universal Studios Singapore. You can find out more about Naruto: The Gallery and purchase your tickets at Resorts World Sentosa’s website. READ MORE J-pop group Atarashii Gakko! will be performing in Singapore this JuneFamous Naples pizzeria L’antica Pizzeria de Michele to open in Singapore next month Warm weather and thundery showers expected for the re

Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour has been the talk of the town since last week, and it’s difficult to feel excited when you’re one of the few who did not manage to procure tickets for any of the six shows. While we cannot guarantee that you will be able to snag a pair of tickets to The Eras Tour, we have compiled a list of ongoing giveaways to increase your chances of going to the concert. Don’t worry, the giveaways listed here are by reputable organisations, so there’s no harm in trying your luck. Frame Kicks Giveaway Football fans would know of Frame Kicks, a shop where you can get framed jersey print of your favourite football player. In celebration of Taylor Swift dating a football player (albeit a different kind of football), the store is currently giving away a pair of CAT 2 tickets for her last show on March 9. To join, simply follow the official Frame Kicks Instagram account and tag a friend. Additionally, purchasing any item from Frame Kicks will grant you 50 additional entries – all you have to do is include your Instagram handle when checking out. The giveaway will close on March 7, 12pm, and winners will be announced the next day. Find out more about the giveaway here. Make a donation through Giving.sg and stand a chance to win a pair of tickets You may have seen this giveaway floating around on social media, where Singaporean Leon Qiu announced that he would be giving away a pair of VIP 1 tickets to Taylor Swift’s March 8 concert. To participate in this giveaway, al

With Taylor Swift coming to Singapore as part of the Eras Tour in two weeks, Swifties have begun preparing for the concert, whether it’s shopping for concert outfits or crafting friendship bracelets to trade. Add another event to your list of things to do, as Jewel Changi Airport will be hosting the largest Taylor Swift event in Singapore with beJEWELed, a tribute night dedicated to the famous pop star’s greatest hits. The event will feature an opening performance by MADDspace, followed by a three hour sing-along session led by singer and avid Swiftie Joie Tan and local band 53A, performing classics like “Love Story”, “Blank Space”, and of course, “Bejeweled”. Take advantage of this session to practise the concert fanchants and interact with fellow Swifties. beJEWELed honours the bracelet-trading tradition by providing an exclusive Changi Airport Group friendship bracelet to every attendee, as well as an additional packet of beads for you to craft your own bracelet. Fans travelling between February 15 to March 15 can enjoy $22 off upon spending $79 or 22% off a minimum spend of $198.90 on iShopChangi using the promotion codes STYLE22 and FEELING22 respectively. Additionally, you can also enjoy 40% off beauty products, wines, and spirits when shopping at The Shilla Duty Free and Lotte Duty Free. Ticket holders for any concert held at either Singapore Indoor Stadium or National Stadium can also claim Jewel shopping and attraction vouchers from the Level 1 Jewel Concierge Counte

Singaporeans can expect a flurry of activity this week as thousands of Swifties prepare for Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour that will be kicking off this Saturday. Regardless of whether they have tickets for any of the six performances, fans are celebrating the famous popstar by hosting pre-concert parties, making friendship bracelets, and even Jewel Changi Airport has joined in on the festivities by hosting a three-hour sing-along session where Swifties can belt out their favourite tracks on Taylor Swift’s discography. Given that Marina Bay Sands is the official Presenting Sponsor for The Eras Tour, it’s unsurprising that they are organising various events to celebrate the upcoming concerts. This includes the special promotion that was released last November, featuring ticket packages inclusive of a two-night stay at the esteemed hotel and even a limousine ride to the National Stadium. As a way to get Swifties excited for The Eras Tour, Marina Bay Sands will be transforming into an enchanting wonderland for all things Taylor Swift, paying tribute to the singer-songwriter’s amazing career so far.  Photograph: Daniel Iskandar Starting February 28, fans can embark on a visual narrative of Swift’s musical journey at The Eras Tour Trail, located at select areas of The Shoppes and Sands Expo & Convention Centre. These installations will feature her 10 iconic eras, such as an enchanting carriage representing Speak Now, and a replica of the Look What You Made Me Do throne from reput

As Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour approaches, many worry over the huge crowd that will descend upon Stadium MRT once the concert ends. Given the overwhelming congestion witnessed after Coldplay’s and Ed Sheeran’s concerts, several shuttle services have emerged to provide an alternative mode of transportation post-concert. Free Grab shuttles Grab is back with its free shuttle service after a successful run during Coldplay’s concerts in January, and will be offering concertgoers a free ride from the National Stadium to four MRT stations for all six nights of The Eras Tour. The shuttle service will run once the concert ends, and arrive in 15-minute intervals, presumably until midnight. Due to the large number of attendees, Grab will be providing more buses to ensure a smoother journey, and will ply two routes: Stadium to Redhill MRT to Jurong East MRT Stadium to Boon Keng MRT to Toa Payoh MRT To get to the shuttle buses, head to Gate 14 at the National Stadium to get to pick-up point A. You can also check the Grab app for photo and text directions to the pick-up point. Shuttle buses will pick up concertgoers on a first-come-first-served basis, and will only depart when the bus is full. Grab will also be giving out $5 vouchers off your next ride when you sing a line from your favourite Taylor Swift song. Quantities are limited, so be sure to hurry to the pick-up point after the concert to claim your voucher. Convenient shuttles starting from $13 Coldplay concert-goers are probabl

It probably comes as no surprise that Taylor Swift’s merchandise is currently the most sought- after in Singapore, especially since the famous singer-songwriter will be wrapping up her Australian leg of the Eras Tour soon and making her way to our sandy shores next week. You can expect to see Swifties lining up outside of National Stadium starting from March 2 – and if it’s not to get the best spot at the standing pit, it’s to get their hands on the official Eras Tour merchandise. According to Merchant Machine, which analyses consumer search data to uncover the most popular merchandise in each country, Taylor Swift currently ranks number one in Singapore and in eight other countries including the U.S., Canada, and the Philippines. If we look at the rest of the world, K-pop reigns supreme – renowned K-pop group BTS’s merchandise is the most sought-after in 30 countries, with Youtuber Disguised Toast and soloist Harry Styles coming in at second and third place respectively. The Eras Tour merchandise list for Singapore has yet to be announced, but drawing from merch lists from Tokyo and Australia, Swifties can expect to purchase T-shirts, three different types of hoodies, and even a bracelet with 12 gems representing all her albums up till Midnights (including Fearless TV and Red TV). There is also a canvas tapestry with the official Eras Tour design on it, making it the perfect wall hanging for any Swiftie’s bedroom. Which piece of merch are you hoping to get at the Eras Tour?

It’s been 23 years since Cameron Mackintosh’s Miss Saigon was staged in Singapore, and the beloved tragedy is making its return in August for a limited period. The latest production of the musical started in Sydney last August and finished its run in Adelaide in February. The musical will make its way to Manila in March, before staging a production at Marina Bay Sands from August 15 onwards. Miss Saigon first premiered in the West End at the Theatre Royal in 1989, and has gone on to be staged in over 350 cities. The original production saw Lea Salonga and Jonathan Pryce take on the leading roles of Kim and The Engineer, with them going on to win Best Actress and Actor at the Tony Awards and Olivier Awards. Since then, their roles have been taken over by the likes of Jennie Kwan and Jon Jon Briones. The musical explores various themes such as the American dream, war, and love. It follows the life of a Vietnamese bargirl, Kim, and her romance with Chris, an American Marine sergeant serving in the war. The two eventually fall in love and even have a wedding ceremony, with Chris promising to take Kim back to America, but they are separated after the fall of Saigon. If you think it sounds familiar, it’s because Miss Saigon was inspired by Giacomo Puccini’s 1904 opera Madame Butterfly, and similarly tells the story of a doomed romance involving an Asian woman abandoned by her American lover. Ticket sales have yet to be released,  but you can sign up for the waitlist on Base Entert