6 ways to live like the French in Singapore

Challenge yourself and spend some time alone in this city doing all the things that make you happy. You can start by taking a stroll in a neighbourhood you love – but seeing it in a different light. Some of our favourite neighbourhoods include Everton Park, Telok Ayer and Little India where old meets new and there’s so much begging to be noticed. Notice details of the buildings, appreciate the shops and restaurants in the area, learn a thing or two about its history and heritage, and take photographs along the way to remember the experience. 

When you’re out and about exploring neighbourhoods, remember to pick up a baguette and other assorted pastries. Not only do we have so many choice bakeries in Singapore, but the selection of bread and pastries you can get here is also amazing. You can pick up a classic baguette from the likes of Tiong Bahru Bakery (also stock up on the croissants while you’re at it), Mother Dough, Chu and Co., Nassim Hill Bakery (for its famous cookies and buttermilk scones) and Micro Bakery (the walnut baguette is our pick). 

It’s common to make a trip to the market to pick up some produce and also some fresh flowers. While we might not have as many roadside flower stands, there are plenty of places to get some blooming arrangements in Singapore. Local florists Charlotte Puxley and Flower Addict are among our favourites for bespoke and ready-made bouquets, but if you wanna try your hand in DIY arrangements, you can head to any cold room at any plant nursery like Far East Flora and Sing See Soon and get a mix of different flowers. 

People admire the French because of its culture and all the art. Well, you too can chase some French culture while in Singapore. Alliance Française is a non-profit educational and cultural organisation here who are dedicated to sharing French culture with the world. It also arranges for French films to be screened at the HQ. Otherwise, check out The Projector or the Oldham Theatre for arthouse films in Singapore. 

French dinners are effortlessly chic: a good conversation with lot of laughter, good wines and delicious food – an evening that unfolds at a leisurely pace and ends late. While French wines are often celebrated, their beers are equally as great. Our choice? Something that is delicate, has a mild sweetness and some citrus notes – and you’ll find all of that in a Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or an alfresco lunch, this fruity French wheat beer is nuanced but also versatile, representing the essence of French good taste.

Keep it cosy and host a fun dinner party at home with your closest friends. You don’t have to be the best cook – and delivery is an option – but when you’re in good company, great conversation ensues. And to top it off, you can enjoy the night with a 1664 Blanc or 1664 Rose in hand or to pair with that homemade pasta you cooked from scratch.

Now it’s your turn to be the main character. You can also stand a chance to have a fancy dining experience for two (worth $600) – and at 28 Wilkie, a one Michelin-star restaurant in Singapore. ​​All you have to do is purchase 1664 Blanc or 1664 Rose from one of its participating outlets.