8 good reasons to be happy about 2022

Physical events have been back for a while now – you must have seen the crowds at the various Christmas events in 2021 – but if things continue to go well, we expect it to pick up even more in 2022. There's nothing like going down to check out Nam June Paik's video art, a tokidoki floral display, or more brilliant art pieces at the upcoming Singapore Art Week in person. For more events to fill your calendar with, check out our round-up of the best art exhibitions in January and more things to do. 

If there's one thing we've really missed, it's live music. In a good sign last year, Baybeats took the stage again at The Esplanade, bringing the likes of lewloh, Caracal and Amateur Takes Control. This year, the trend continues with in-person live shows including the Joanna Dong Lunar New Year Concert, Dreebsby: Open to Vibing, Urban Sonic Music Festival, Mosaic Music Series and Miss Lou. 

We've been able to dine out in groups of five since 2021, but we're just glad that restrictions have not tightened since. Even though this restriction will remain into the Lunar New Year, we prefer to count our blessings. Singapore's F&B scene is not quitting either, with new openings every other week. We've got a new retro-inspired bistro in Orchard, plant-based bars and eateries, novel Japanese-inspired brunch fare, and more sure to come in 2022. 

If you prefer to stay at home, then no worries. We've got a ton of great new movies and series hitting the screens in 2022. Look out for blockbusters like The Batman starring Robert Pattinson, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and Thor: Love and Thunder, alongside other anticipated flicks like Licorice Pizza, Deception and Parallel Mothers. As for series that you can stream all day long, keep your eye on our monthly round-up of the best new shows coming to Netflix, HBO GO, Disney+ and more. 

Now that we're going back to the office, all the more that we need something to look forward to. Good news is that 2022 will see tons of public holidays fall on days that will really help you maximise your annual leave. And you don't have to do the thinking either – we've mapped out annual leave hacks to help you double your off days this year. Time to start applying for that leave!

What used to be one of the biggest social events of the year, the Singapore Grand Prix is looking to make its return this year. Formula 1 included Singapore as one of its stops for the 2022 season, though it is subject to change. But if things do go through, we can expect plenty of buzz in the city for the night races. Previous years saw big musical acts performing in town, glitzy parties happening around the track – and all the action on the racetrack of course. 

And what to do on those precious rest days? You could stay in Singapore for a luxe staycation and explore our many attractions, but if it's within your means, then take a flight to one of the many VTL countries with Singapore. Head to South Korea to catch a BTS concert in March, fly to Germany to visit enchanting forests and fairytale castles, or just hop over to Malaysia for some affordable and delicious food. After January 20, of course. 

Before you travel (and even if you don't), do take advantage of the booster shots that are being provided to everyone. With Omicron cases on the rise, it's better to be safe rather than sorry after all. It's also a massive privilege that you won't find in every other country, so just bite the bullet to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Remember to schedule a rest day after your shot!