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Home , Baba House, Bukit Pasoh Road, HortPark, Indian Heritage Centre, Labrador Nature Reserve, Malay Heritage Centre

OCTOBER · NOVEMBER · DECEMBER INSIDER PEOPLE · PLACES · EVENTS · DINING · NIGHTLIFE

INSIDE: NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDES MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS CITY MUST-DOS AND MUCH MORE : K tlight amp po on S g d G o la o m h r u o Islamic restaurant b “Triple As! Authentic, Atmospheric h & Affordable”

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Reviewed December 2015

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Sultan Mosque Discover “Spectacular Architecture” Singapore’s unique Reviewed December 2015 neighbourhoods

Malay Heritage Centre with the TripAdvisor “Good for some history” mobile app

Reviewed October 2015

Maison Ikkoku “A wonderful café”

Reviewed September 2015

Haji Lane Mrs Pho “Funky and Trendy” “Authentic Vietnamese Pho” Reviewed January 2016

Reviewed January 2016

Get the free app, now with offline access to reviews, maps, and photos. iOS Android 2017 light: Kamp , here we come! ot on Sp g Singapore has had an amazing 2016 – we’ve had a spectacular Singapore Art Week in G the first quarter, massive shopping sales from May to August, fantastic National Day d celebrations, a roaring 2016 Formula 1® Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix in o la o m September, and last but not least the recent arrival of MICHELIN Guide Singapore. h r Get acquainted with some of these stellar Michelin-approved establishments in u “The Eat List”, and read what local chef Malcolm Lee, the man behind one Michelin- o Islamic restaurant starred restaurant Candlenut, has to say about Singapore’s buzzing culinary scene. b “Triple As! Authentic, Be sure to also try modern renditions of the iconic Hainanese chicken rice, and sip Atmospheric h a tipple or two at some of the city’s coolest bars, on your foodie adventure here in & Affordable” the city! g i Reviewed December 2015

e Want to dive deeper into Singapore? Venture into the lesser known with tour N organisers Tribe Tours, A+B Edu Tours, and Ruby Dot Trails as they take you off the beaten track to uncover Singapore’s secrets and history. If you’re looking to party, we hope you’ve brought with you a ton of energy, because the will go on well into the New Year! Dress up for some scary-good Halloween bashes, Sultan Mosque Discover experience Little India during Deepavali, send your pulse racing watching tennis “Spectacular Architecture” Singapore’s unique champs at BNP Paribas WTA Finals Singapore presented by SC Global, and groove ‘til dawn at the hottest New Year’s Eve blowouts. Reviewed December 2015 neighbourhoods 2016 is set to close with a big bang – see you around the city! with the TripAdvisor “Good for some history” mobile app

Reviewed October 2015

Maison Ikkoku CHRIS EDWARDS “A wonderful café” AND THE HONEYCOMBERS

Reviewed September 2015

Haji Lane Mrs Pho “Funky and Trendy” FOUNDER SALES & MARKETING THE HONEYCOMBERS For general enquiries, contact Chris Edwards Alyssa Prenda hello@thehoneycombers. the SINGAPORE TOURISM “Authentic Vietnamese Pho” BOARD, Tourism Court, 1 Reviewed January 2016 Kate Reynolds com MANAGING DIRECTOR Orchard Spring Lane, Reviewed January 2016 Hamish Mcdougall DESIGNERS HO PRINTING Singapore 247729 Aliff Tee SINGAPORE PTE LTD Tel: (65) 6736 6622 EDITOR Zhang Sze Li 31 South Street 1 Fax: (65) 6736 9423 Crystal Lee Singapore 486769 Touristline: 1800 736 2000 Darissa Lee (outside Singapore) SUB-EDITOR Elsen Ho Selina Altomonte COVER PHOTO STB is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness WRITERS Sungei Buloh Wetland of this publication and shall not be Dinesh Ajith Reserve by Louis Kwok liable for any damage, loss, injury Nafeesa Saini or inconvenience arising from or in (www.louiskwok.com) connection with the content of this Zakaria Muhammad publication. You should verify or seek Get the free app, now clarification from the individual third parties referred to in this publication. MA 001 05 16 Q4 with offline access to reviews, maps, and photos. iOS Android Contents 03 HANDY TIPS Essential information about Singapore

04 WHAT’S ON Exciting events in the months ahead

12 COVER STORY Quak Wan Ling, volunteer guide at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, takes us on a tour around the heritage park and beyond

14 DAY TRIPPER Unique, offbeat tours that will show you different sides of Singapore

15 #LIKEALOCAL Singlish words and phrases to know

16 MAP OF SINGAPORE City must-dos

18 THE EAT LIST The hottest on the Singapore dining scene

22 DRINK UP Singapore’s coolest bars

23 HOMETOWN Mural artist Yip Yew Chong shares his top spots in Everton Park

24 IN THE ‘HOOD Navigator: Little India

26 RETAIL THERAPY Local brands and international names – here’s where to shop and what to buy

30 BEST DAY EVER! Things to do with the little ones

32 MAPS & APPS Train routes and useful downloads

02 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM Transport TAXI Fares start from $3.00. SMRT Taxis (65) 6555 8888 MRT BUS Trains typically run from 5.30am Fares start from as low as 79

Premier Cabs to 12.00am. Standard tickets vary cents. Try to have the exact fare TIPS HANDY (65) 6363 6888 from $1.40 to $2.70. See page 32 as bus drivers do not give change. for map. Comfort Taxis & CityCab (65) 1800 336 8900 (65) 6552 1111 (65) 1800 336 8900 www.sbstransit.com.sg www.smrt.com.sg www.smrt.com.sg Language Tipping Shopping

English is the It is not usual For a pleasant spoken language, practice to tip in shopping experience, though Singlish Singapore, although compare prices, – a collection of it is appreciated enquire about refund colloquial catch by service staff. Most hotels and policies, and check the phrases and lingo – dominates restaurants quote prices as “++,” invoice as well as the everyday conversations among which includes 10 per cent warranty of the product before locals (see page 15). Mandarin, service charge and 7 per cent making a purchase. Retain your Malay, Tamil and various dialects goods and services tax (GST). receipts to enjoy tourist refund are also used. (see page 32 for more details). More information and shopping tips can be found on the Consumer Advisory section at YourSingapore.com (under “Traveller Essentials”). For assistance Visitor Centres or to flag inappropriate retailer behaviour, call 1800 736 2000 or email [email protected]. ORCHARD CHINATOWN 216 (Next to 2 Banda Street (Behind orchardgateway@emerald) Buddha Tooth Relic 8.30am-9.30pm daily Temple and Museum) Connectivity Somerset Mon-Fri 9am-9pm and Weekends and Public Register for free public Don’t miss “Evolution Craftsmen: Holidays 9am-10pm Wi-Fi service with ”, the 2nd Singapore Inspired Chinatown your foreign mobile installation of the CRAFT|SINGAPORE number at any Wireless@SG exhibition located at the second floor of the Singapore Visitor Centre TOURIST hotspot across Singapore, and (orchardgateway). Learn about the receive your login details via evolutionary spirit of Singapore’s HOTLINE SMS. Overseas charges may apply. contemporary craftsmen and see how (65) 1800 736 2000 Alternatively, you can rent a pocket they explore identity and sense of (toll-free in Singapore) Wi-Fi device at Singapore Visitor place in their works. Let their stories (65) 6736 2000 (overseas) Centre (orchardgateway) or Changi inspire you to explore and uncover hidden gems in Singapore. Recommends at Changi Airport. Admission is free. Buy a Singapore prepaid SIM card from Singapore ION ORCHARD Visitor Centre (orchardgateway), Level 1 Concierge Changi Recommends and 2 Orchard Turn telecommunication retail shops 10am-10pm daily located at the airport, major Orchard shopping malls and convenience stores island-wide.

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 03 October TRICK OR TREAT? WELL, IT LOOKS LIKE OCTOBER IS SERVING BOTH. FOR TENNIS FANS, THERE’S THE EXCITING BNP PARIBAS WTA FINALS WHAT’S ON WHAT’S SINGAPORE PRESENTED BY SC GLOBAL, PLUS A SLEW OF FESTIVALS INCLUDING SINGAPORE FASHION WEEK, DEEPAVALI, SINGAPORE JEWELFEST AND SINGAPORE WINE FIESTA 2016. BEFORE OCTOBER ENDS, DRESS UP AND SCARE YOURSELF SILLY AT THE HALLOWEEN PARTIES HAPPENING AROUND TOWN, FROM THE GHOULISH HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS® TO THE KID-FRIENDLY SAFARI BOO!

HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS® 6 Universal Studios Singapore® brings you the most intense and immersive Halloween event with five horrifying haunted houses, two terrifying scare zones, and two outrageous shows.

Sep 30 to Oct 31 (select nights) Universal Studios Singapore® www.halloweenhorrornights.com.sg HarbourFront Event is not recommended for children under the age of 13. No costumes or masks allowed. TM & © Universal Studios.

SINGAPORE WONDER FULL – DEEPAVALI JEWELFEST 2016 LIGHT & WATER CELEBRATIONS Be dazzled by stunning 2016 SHOW collections of the best jewels and gems from around the ’s largest light Join in the merrymaking as the world at one of Singapore’s most and water show will wow you Hindus in Singapore celebrate the extravagant showcases. Festival of Lights at the Little India with a 13-minute spectacle of precinct with a huge festival that interweaving lasers and streaming Oct 7 to 16 features an arts carnival, cultural water screens, dramatised by an Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza performances, a heritage corner original symphonic soundtrack. www.singaporejewelfest.com and night trails. Orchard Nightly Event Plaza at ® Sep 17 to Nov 12 www.MarinaBaySands.com/ Road & WonderFull Race Course Road Bayfront Little India

04 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM RENT BY SINGAPORE PANGDEMONIUM FASHION WEEK Local theatre company 2016 Pangdemonium ends its 2016 season with its very own In collaboration with Digital rendition of the famous Tony Fashion Week and supported by

award-winning musical, RENT. Set Council of Fashion Designers of ON WHAT’S in bohemian New York City, it America, Singapore Fashion Week tells the poignant tale of a group 2016 presents a multi-dimensional of young adults, questioning their platform for emerging talents futures amidst social and political and established international unrest, poverty, drug abuse as well designers. Don’t miss this as HIV/AIDS. showcase of runway shows, talks, and special programmes. Oct 7 to 23 Drama Centre Theatre Oct 26 to 30 www.pangdemonium.com National Gallery Singapore Bugis www.singaporefashionweek.com.sg City Hall SAFARI BOO Making its comeback with the theme “Aliens & Monsters”, this kid-friendly Halloween extravangaza promises a good time for the entire family with an array of activities including animal presentations and face painting.

Oct 21 to 30 (Fridays to Sundays only) Safari www.safariboo.sg + connecting bus service 927

BNP PARIBAS MARVEL’S AVENGERS WTA FINALS S.T.A.T.I.O.N. SINGAPORE WINE SINGAPORE FIESTA 2016 Discover the cinematic world PRESENTED BY SC of Marvel’s The Avengers at the This highly-anticipated festival GLOBAL S.T.A.T.I.O.N. (Scientific Training features winemakers from around and Tactical Intelligence Operative The most prestigious tournament the world and offers four days Network) exhibition. Here, fans can in women’s tennis returns with of wine tastings, complimentary uncover the history and scientific eight days of non-stop sporting masterclasses, live performances, origins of Iron Man, The Hulk, action and entertainment on and and other exciting activities. Captain America, Thor and more. off the court.

Oct 20 to 23 Oct 29 onwards Clifford Square Oct 23 to 30 www.winefiesta.com.sg Singapore Indoor Stadium www.science.edu.sg www.wtafinals.com East Stadium

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 05 November CAN YOU BELIEVE IT’S NOVEMBER? WHERE DID ALL THAT TIME GO? WELL, GET READY BECAUSE NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH TO KICK-START WHAT’S ON WHAT’S THE YEAR-END FESTIVITIES! GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH EVENTS LIKE CHRISTMAS ON A GREAT STREET, OR SURROUND YOURSELF WITH ART AT THE 27TH SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL AND AFFORDABLE ART FAIR. NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO, YOU’LL BE ROLLING WITH THE GOOD TIMES IN SINGAPORE THIS MONTH.

SINGAPORE RIVER FESTIVAL 2016 This three-day extravaganza celebrates with a first-ever tightrope performance by Underclouds Cie, an outdoor pop-up cinema, a riverside carnival featuring acrobatic performances and fun festival activities. Plus, there‘ll be a frightfully fantastic Halloween party, “Nightmare on Clarke Street”, on 29 October. BOUNCE Oct 29 to Nov 5 SINGAPORE: Along the Singapore River www.singaporeriverfestival.sg FREE-JUMPING REVOLUTION SINGAPORE Adrenaline junkies, take on CRICKET CLUB the Singapore’s largest indoor LOCAL MICHELIN RUGBY SEVENS adrenaline arena of 24,000 square CHEF SHOWCASE feet features three zones for Get ready to rock, ruck and different ages and abilities: Spring- Explore different types of rumble as the world’s top 7s loaded Playground, X-Park and Peranakan (Straits native with teams from England, Fiji and “Leap of Faith”. mixed local and foreign ancestry) France tackle their way to the try cuisine with Chef Malcolm Lee of line at the historical Padang field. Jun 3 to Dec 31 one-starred restaurant Candlenut Cathay Cineleisure Orchard in November, or get a glimpse Nov 4 to 6 www.bounceinc.com.sg into Jaan’s Chef Kirk Westaway’s Singapore Cricket Club Orchard childhood in December at this scc.org.sg City Hall monthly culinary series that spotlights on Singapore’s Michelin- starred chefs.

Oct 29 and Nov 25 Various venues guide.michelin.sg

06 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM ANIME FESTIVAL ASIA SINGAPORE 2016 Fans of anime and Japanese popular culture are in for a big treat at this three-day extravanganza that features all- ON WHAT’S things manga and more. There’ll be more than 100 booths on the festival grounds, plus live AFFORDABLE performances and lots of cosplay action. ART FAIR RENDEZVOUS Nov 25 to 27 Go shopping for art pieces Suntec Singapore Convention & WITH FRENCH at this recurring event. The Exhibition Centre artworks, which include www.animefestival.asia CINEMA paintings, sculptures, prints and Esplanade SINGAPORE photographs, start from $100 and cost no more than $10,000. Love all things French? Then don’t miss the various premiere Nov 18 to 20 showcases of French cinema at F1 Pit Building four different venues - The Capitol, www.affordableartfair.com/ GV Plaza Singapura, Alliance singapore Promenade Française and The Projector.

Nov 10 to 20 Various venues www.facebook.com/RendezvousWith FrenchCinemaSingapore FAMILY FUN AT CHRISTMAS ON A GREAT STREET The festive spirit comes to For spectacularly elaborate River Safari, where visitors can Christmas lights that stretches get up close to the park’s wild across 3.8km, hit the world inhabitants while reveling in famous shopping street, Orchard activities such as mascot Road. Prepare to marvel at meet-and-greet sessions, interactive set pieces and TH special performances and fun decorated mall facades that are THE 27 craft activities. participating in the annual best SINGAPORE dressed mall contest. There are Nov 26 to Dec 18 (Weekends only) also plenty of Christmas delights INTERNATIONAL River Safari www.riversafari.com.sg and promotions in store! FILM FESTIVAL Choa Chu Kang + connecting bus service 927 Nov 12 to Jan 2 Movie buffs, get in line for this Orchard Road 12-day film festival that highlights www.orchardroad.org/christmas a series of movies from all over Orchard, Somerset and the world, with a focus on avant- garde Asian flicks.

Nov 23 to Dec 4 Various venues www.sgiff.com

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 07 December LIKE IT OR NOT, 2017 IS ALMOST HERE! BUT BEFORE YOU GREET THE NEW YEAR WITH A BIG BANG, KEEP BUSY WITH PLENTY OF EATING, WHAT’S ON WHAT’S SHOPPING, DRINKING AND PARTYING IN THE CITY. SOAK IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS SINGAPORE’S SANTA’S ALL- STAR CHRISTMAS AND CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT , OR LET LOOSE AT TWO HUGE BEACH BASHES – ZOUKOUT 2016 AND SILOSO BEACH PARTY. HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!

SINGAPORE SANTA’S ALL-STAR BIENNALE 2016 CHRISTMAS The biennial contemporary art Snow, pyrotechnics, multimedia event returns for its fifth edition installations and special with the theme “An Atlas of Christmas-inspired performances Mirrors”, where 60 Asian artists – Universal Studios Singapore® present site-specific and never- is set to inject some warm before-seen contemporary fuzzy feelings to your festive artworks that reflect shared celebration this year! histories and current realities within and beyond the region. Dec 1 to Jan 2 Universal Studios Singapore® Oct 27 to Feb 26 www.rwsentosa.com/uss and HarbourFront other venues in the .Bugis precinct MERRY FISHMAS www.singaporeartmuseum.sg/ Something fishy is going on at the SingaporeBiennale CHRISTMAS S.E.A. Aquarium this Christmas! Catch Diving Santa and Elf WONDERLAND making their bubbly appearance If last year’s installment is anything underwater as you learn more to go by, you can look forward to about marine animals. stunning light displays, magnificent Dec 1 to Jan 2 structures, plus more fun and S.E.A. Aquarium games for the whole family www.rwsentosa.com/seaa at Gardens by the Bay when HarbourFront Christmas rolls around.

Dec 2 to Jan 1 Gardens by the Bay www.christmaswonderland.sg Bayfront

08 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM WHAT’S ON WHAT’S

STANDARD MARINA BAY CHARTERED SINGAPORE MARATHON COUNTDOWN SINGAPORE 2016 2017 Gear up for the largest running Celebrate in the New Year in fiesta in Southeast Asia and watch true style at this landmark event, thousands of participants from all which promises a night of revelry around the world compete for SKY HIGH SOCIAL with musical performances and new records. Toast to a New Year of exciting magnificent fireworks displays around the Marina Bay area. Dec 3 to 4 adventures at Marina Bay Sands’ Orchard Road SkyPark Observation Deck, which Dec 31 marathonsingapore.com boasts one of the best seats in the Marina Bay Orchard city for fireworks. www.marinabaycountdown.sg Esplanade/City Hall/Raffles Place/ Dec 31 Promenade/Bayfront/Downtown Marina Bay Sands® www.marinabaysands.com Bayfront

ESCAPE NYE’17 Mark the arrival of 2017 at this alternative music festival, which brings together the best in food, fashion and music. Expect critically acclaimed spinners, movers and shakers to take your NYE party to the next level! SILOSO BEACH PARTY ZOUKOUT 2016 Dec 31 The Float@Marina Bay ’s iconic countdown party Asia’s largest dance music www.livescapegroup.com at Siloso Beach is the place to Esplanade festival returns to Siloso Beach welcome the New Year, with 12 for two days of non-stop hours of non-stop electronic partying – boasting a line-up of music, Asia’s largest foam pool, international DJs and amazing and a spectacular fireworks regional musical acts. display at midnight.

Dec 9 to 10 Dec 31 Silosa Beach, Sentosa Siloso Beach, Sentosa www.zoukout.com www.sentosa.com.sg HarbourFront HarbourFront

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 09 Don’t miss BNP Paribas WTA Finals WHAT’S ON WHAT’S Singapore presented by SC Global

Calling all tennis lovers – the 2015 title? Or will Serena be photo opportunities with well- queens of the sport are holding Williams reclaim her crown this known mascots and interactive court and you’re invited! The best year? Keep your eyes peeled! tennis booths at the Fan Zone. tennis players in the world are Lucky fans might also get a returning to Singapore for the The Doubles Tournament chance to come face-to-face with BNP Paribas WTA Finals is set to be just as gripping, as their favourite players at the Fan Singapore presented by tennis heavyweights join forces Zone in OCBC Square or at the SC Global (23 to 30 October), in a bid to become the ultimate Practice Courts at OCBC Arena! so brace yourself for eight days holders of the year-end title. of fast and furious tennis action, Both tournaments culminate in a Budding stars will also have their plus a ton of fun activities to keep grand final showdown on Sunday, chance in the spotlight in the everyone entertained. Not big 30 October, and you can be sure Future Stars Finals, where on tennis? You’ll be hard pressed both finales will be nail-biting! young tennis warriors from Asia not to get fired up once you’ve World number one pair Sania go up against the rest of the watched female stars including Mirza and Martina Hingis were world’s emerging talents. Who Serena Williams and Angelique the first to qualify for the WTA knows, you might even witness Kerber battle for year-end Finals and will be back to defend the next world tennis champ in honours on the court, serving their title against other hopefuls the making! aces at speeds of over 200km/h. in the top echelons of the doubles game. Tickets are on sale at One of the main highlights of www.wtafinals.com/tickets. this tennis extravaganza is the The prestigious event is set For more information, visit Singles Tournament, where to kick off with the inaugural www.WTAFinals.com. the year’s top 8 singles players Family Day on Sunday 23 battle it out for the revered Billie October. Get ready for a series The players shown are for illustrative Jean King WTA Trophy and US$7 of on-court programmes that are purposes only. Qualification and million prize purse. Will Agnieszka guaranteed to keep the young participation subject to WTA rules. Radwanska retain her WTA Finals ones entertained. There will also

10 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM Exposé Dazzling Deepavali WHAT’S ON WHAT’S

On any given day, Little India stall and browse the eclectic mix More incredible experiences offers visitors a feast for the of offerings from gorgeous saris await when night falls. Marvel at senses, thanks to the colourful and intricate costume jewellery the spectacular display of lights sights, crazy-busy traffic, vibrant to traditional sweet treats and adorning Serangoon Road and chatter, and stimulating aromas of henna art. Race Course Road at 7pm, then the neighbourhood. And it gets join the Deepavali Night bigger, bolder, and louder during For even more amazing arts Trail (15 to 22 October, Deepavali (29 October), or the and culture, check out the 7.45pm, Hastings Road) to Festival of Lights, an annual Hindu Deepavali Craft & Heritage learn more about the traditions festival that celebrates the triumph Exhibition (24 September to of the festival and the Hindu of good over evil, light over 28 October, Campbell Lane & community in Singapore. Can’t darkness. Streets are decorated Hastings Road), and discover the get enough? Catch an array of with elaborately designed arches origins of traditional Indian crafts. dances and performances at and thousands of dazzling lights, You can even get your fortune Festival of Lights @ POLI and the entire enclave buzzes with read by a parrot astrologer, who (3 September to 28 October, an irresistible, carnival atmosphere. uses trained green parakeets to Fridays and Saturdays, 7-9pm, pick out tarot cards. Also, don’t Clive Street), or immerse This year, Deepavali celebrations miss the Deepavali Arts yourself in the tale of the festival in Little India start from 17 Carnival (15 and 22 October, at Deebam – The Story September to 12 November. Begin Hindoo Road), where you can of Deepavali (15 and 22 your cultural adventure in the day experience the heritage and October, 8.30pm, Hindoo Road). with a visit to the Deepavali history of Little India through art Festival Village (24 September and photo exhibitions, interactive See page 24 for more things to do to 28 October, Campbell Lane and art installations, art jamming in Little India! Hasting Road). Hop from stall to sessions, sand art sessions, and more.

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 11 COVER STORY COVER

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Nature Insider Quak Wan Ling

TUCKED AWAY IN THE NORTHWESTERN CORNER OF SINGAPORE, SUNGEI BULOH WETLAND RESERVE, THE CITY’S FIRST ASEAN HERITAGE PARK, IS A SPRAWLING ECOLOGICAL GEM CONSISTING OF 202 HECTARES OF MANGROVES, MUDFLATS, PONDS AND FORESTS. THE SITE ALSO HOLDS INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE FOR MIGRATORY BIRDS, AS THEY ESCAPE THE COLD FROM AS FAR AS SIBERIA. FOR A DEEPER LOOK INTO THE RESERVE, WE GOT LONG- TIME VOLUNTEER GUIDE AND NATURE EXPERT QUAK WAN LING TO SHARE HER INSIGHTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A DAY TRIP AT THE PARK AS WELL AS AROUND SINGAPORE.

12 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM I became a volunteer guide If friends from out of town at Sungei Buloh Wetland are here for a visit… Reserve… I will plan an outdoor-sy itinerary for in 2009, though I have been the active folks. We’ll rent bicycles frequently visiting the park to and cycle from East Coast Parkway birdwatch since 1996 when I joined to for nasi lemak Nature Society Singapore. Even (fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut though it has been many years since milk and pandan leaf, accompanied I became a guide, I find that there with an array of side dishes including is always something new for me to omelette, fried whole fish and crispy learn every time I visit the reserve. anchovies), fried carrot cake (made mainly with rice flour and white STORY COVER My tour at Sungei Buloh radish) and teh tarik (frothy hot milk Wetland Reserve… tea). On our way back, we’ll stop at covers the history of Sungei Buloh, the East Coast Lagoon Food Village the mangrove environment, the kinds for some satay (grilled meat skewers) of plants and animals that live here, and (fresh spring rolls) before and how they adapt. I like to engage returning the bicycles. visitors by encouraging them to look for the hidden, well-camouflaged Visitors who want to take Quak Wan Ling animals instead of giving their things easy can… locations away. I also make it a point do a nature walk at Sungei Buloh to include a conservation message Wetland Reserve, followed by lunch in my tours. Nature lovers can visit at Chinatown Complex. Be sure to NParks’ website at www.nparks.gov. try Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice (#02- sg/activities/events-and-workshops 198/199)! After lunch, take some time for a list of upcoming tours. I do to visit Singapore City Gallery – it’s private tours as well, and I can be an excellent place to learn about the contacted through my blog, Big Bunny transformation of Singapore for the Trails (www.bigbunnytrails.com). last 50 years. Stop by Maxwell Food Centre for a quick refresher before Platform 2 along Route 1… making your way to Gardens by the is an underrated but great spot Bay. End the day with a scrumptious to relax and wait for animals to local dinner at Satay by the Bay. show up. I have seen kingfishers dive into the river to catch fish, For a spot of tranquility… raptors perched on the nearby trees, take a bumboat ride to Singapore’s woodpeckers, otters, and more at last kampong (village) , a this place. nearby island northeast of the city. Or, if you prefer to stay on the mainland, For your day trip at Sungei visit the former Singapore Quarry, Buloh Wetland Reserve… which is now a wetland habitat. wear comfortable clothes (preferably in earthy tones) and shoes. Keep Another beautiful nature yourself well covered and shaded spot to escape the hustle from the sun, carry lots of drinking and bustle of the city is... water and some snacks if you wish. the historic Fort Canning Park - a Bring along your binoculars if you former command centre for the own one. British army. Other noteworthy green spaces in Singapore include After exploring the reserve… Central Catchment Nature Reserve, you can chill out at the bistros at where you can trek the iconic, Gardenasia, a stone’s throw away Instagram-worthy Treetop Walk, from Sungei Buloh, or at Bollywood and of course, the 10km-long The Veggies, which has an outdoor , which connects garden with lots of local vegetables Park, Hill and fruits. Nature lovers may also Park, HortPark, Park and want to consider visiting the . Marshes, a freshwater marsh nearby. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve 301 Neo Tiew Crescent Pulau Ubin (65) 6794 1401 Kranji

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 13 Unbelievable Tours

LOOKING TO EXPERIENCE A DAY TRIP WITH A DIFFERENCE? THESE BRILLIANT, UNIQUE TOURS WILL SHOW YOU A SIDE OF

DAY TRIPPER DAY SINGAPORE YOU’VE PROBABLY NEVER SEEN.

Perhaps you’ve done them in time, where you’ll see how all – spending a day at Sentosa, bread is made the traditional way shopping up a storm along at one of the oldest remaining Orchard Road, admiring bakeries in Singapore; meet with Southeast Asian art at National one of the masters of paper Gallery Singapore, and frolicking objects; and learn about the old in Singapore Botanic Gardens. Chinese tradition of burning paper Or maybe you’re an adventure objects as a form of offering to seeker who refuses to follow the the afterlife. You’ll also make a stop Singapore Upclose flock. Whether you’re a frequent at a private-access-only coffee visitor keen on alternative roasting factory to gain some experiences, or a first-timer eager insights on the local kopi industry, to uncover the city’s secrets, and sample a cup of there’s always something new kopi ‘O’ (black coffee). to discover in Singapore. Think you know ? But where do you look when you Well, the A+B Edu Tours From don’t quite know what you’re Sit to Hip – The Tiong Singapore Upclose looking for? This is where these Bahru Resilience Trail amazing tours come in. They’ll will change your mind. On this satellite town, as well as its various take you off the beaten track excursion to one of Singapore’s amenities and facilities. Next on and into exciting, uncharted hippest neighbourhoods, you’ll the itinerary is the headquarters territories – like Singapore from uncover some of the city’s of the Housing Development the sixties through the eighties. historical remnants, such as the Board (or HDB), where you’ll Disappearing Trades by Tribe Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter – delve deeper into Singapore’s Tours is a four-hour journey back the first of its kind built within a housing journey. Of course, residential area – and the story participants will also visit a nearby of Mr Tan Tock Seng, one of public housing estate and a wet Singapore’s earliest pioneers and market to witness the day-to-day philanthropists, in a visit to his final lives of the locals and learn more resting place. What’s more, the the unique mores to Singaporean tour offers a deeper look into its HDB-dwellers. What’s more, you’ll Art Deco buildings, which were get to put your newly acquired predecessors of today’s HDB flats. Singlish (colloquial Singaporean The Housing Development Board English) to the test when ordering is a statutory board responsible food and drinks at a kopitiam (local Tribes’ Disappearing Trades for Singapore’s public housing. coffee shop).

Some say you haven’t really Disappearing Trades been to Singapore until you’ve (65) 6463 1031 had your fill of the heartlands’ www.tribe-tours.com treasures. If you want a glimpse From Sit to Hip – The Tiong Bahru of the real Singapore, join the Resilience Trail enriching Singapore Up (65) 6339 2114 Close tour by Ruby Dot Trails. www.abedutours.com.sg You’ll be acquainted with Toa Tribes’ Disappearing Trades Payoh - Singapore’s very first Singapore Up Close (65) 9760 0071 www.rubydottrails.com 14 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM Singlish, explained DON’T BLAME US IF YOU GET FUNNY LOOKS WHEN USING THESE PHRASES IN FRONT OF A SINGAPOREAN! #LIKEALOCAL Lah Chope Shiok

A suffix used to place To reserve a place or Fantastic, or to convey feelings of emphasis on the sentence; call dibs on something satisfaction and pleasure used to express certainty “Can you chope a seat for me?” “This plate of chicken rice “Don’t worry about it lah!” is damn shiok!”

Kiasu Boleh Alamak

A fiercely competitive spirit A Malay word for “can” , or “possible” A mild exclamation that bears “She queued for four hours to get “You check on the movie timings the same meaning to “oh dear”, the latest iPhone - so kiasu?” and I’ll handle the bookings. Boleh?” or “oh no” “Alamak! Tickets for the concert are all sold out!”

Order your signature local dishes

DEVIL’S CURRY ROTI PRATA CHAR KWAY TEOW A spicy Eurasian curry South Indian flatbread typically Flat rice noodles and egg noodles stir-fried with seasoned with candlenuts, eaten with curry or sugar soy sauce, eggs, cockles, Chinese sausages, sliced galangal, and vinegar fish cake, chilli, belacan (shrimp paste), prawns, bean sprouts, and chopped Chinese chives

KUEH PIE TEE A popular Peranakan (Straits native with mixed MEE SIAM local and foreign ancestry) dish that is made up of A Malay noodle dish made of thin served thin and crispy pastry tart shell filled with a juicy with spicy, sweet, and sour broth, garnished with hard boiled mixture of thinly-sliced vegetables and prawns eggs, scallions, bean sprouts, garlic chives, and lime wedges

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 15 City must-dos MAP OF SINGAPORE

THIS SUN-DRENCHED ISLAND IS MANY THINGS: A VIBRANT MULTI-CULTURAL STATE, A LUSH GARDEN CITY, A RENOWNED BUSINESS HUB, A FOODIES’ PARADISE, A WORLD-CLASS SHOPPING DESTINATION, AND A NATION WITH HISTORY AND DEPTH. SINGAPORE IS DELIGHTFULLY COMPLEX, AND IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START, THIS MAP OF THE CITY’S FINEST SHOULD POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION(S).

16 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM MAP OF SINGAPORE

1. River Safari 7. Singapore 2. Singapore Science Centre 8. Little India 3. Singapore Botanic Gardens 9. 4. Orchard Road 10. National Stadium 5. 11. East Coast Park 6. Chinatown 12. Changi Airport 13. Coney Island

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 17 One dish, three ways ONE OF SINGAPORE’S MOST ICONIC DISHES, HAINANESE CHICKEN RICE CONSISTS OF BITE-SIZED ROASTED OR POACHED CHICKEN PIECES, FRAGRANT RICE (SPECIALLY THE EAT LIST THE EAT COOKED IN CHICKEN BROTH, GARLIC, GINGER, AND PANDAN LEAVES), AND A SPICY CHILLI AND GINGER PASTE. HERE’S WHERE TO GO FOR BOTH A TRADITIONAL PLATE, AS WELL AS MODERN RENDITIONS OF THIS LOCAL FOOD STAR:

Chilli sauce, made Clear chicken broth with red chillies, garlic, ginger, lime Fresh juice, salt, sugar, cucumber and chicken broth Jasmine rice, cooked with sesame oil, salt, ginger, garlic, chicken Dark soy broth, chicken fat and pandan leaf TUNGLOK HEEN sauce MODERN CHICKEN RICE The famous restaurant’s creative spin on the all-time Singapore favourite pairs tender chicken with fragrant millet, and homemade chilli sauce, spring-onion ginger, and dark soy sauce.

#02-142/143 Lobby Level, Hotel Michael, , 26 Sentosa Gateway (65) 6884 7888 www.tunglokheen.com HarbourFront

Roasted chicken, seasoned with salt, honey, sugar, five-spice powder, white pepper, ginger juice, light soy sauce, water, STATELAND CAFE and lime HAINANESE CHICKEN RICE RISOTTO Instead of rice, this industrial-themed café Coriander serves bite-sized, soy-marinated chicken atop – wait for it – sticky risotto. The Italian- Even a newbie in Singapore can hunt down a good plate fusion version is garnished with fried shallots of Hainanese chicken rice with relative ease; this Hainan- for crunch, and leafy greens for a taste of originated meal is a common sight in hawker centres, earthy freshness. restaurants and even hotels across the country. If you want authenticity, pop by the famed Boon Tong Kee (399, 32 Bali Lane (65) 9296 4997 401 & 403 Road). The restaurant closes at 4am, www.facebook.com/statelandcafe so night-owls can get their fix after hours. Bugis

18 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM Malcolm Lee THE HEAD CHEF AND OWNER OF ONE-MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANT CANDLENUT SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ON THE MICHELIN GUIDE, SINGAPORE’S PROSPERING DINING SCENE, HIS FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS, AND HOW HE PLAYS GUIDE TO TOURIST FRIENDS. LIST THE EAT

MICHELIN Guide in Singapore… and hearty zi char (Chinese homestyle cooking); Wild helps shine the international spotlight on Singapore’s Rocket for Chef Willin’s thoughtfully curated omakase dining scene and brings greater recognition for the menu; and lastly, Buko Nero for its simple, heartfelt array of delectable local food here. and absolutely delicious good cooking.

Winning one Michelin star… My top three local dishes… is truly an honour. It’s a bittersweet yet proud moment are chicken rice, nasi lemak (fragrant rice dish cooked for our team, as the award would not be possible in coconut milk and pandan leaf, accompanied with without the collective dedication, hard work and an array of side dishes like omelette, fried fish, sacrifices for Candlenut. We’re also thrilled to be and anchovies), and economic bee hoon (fried rice sharing Singapore’s Peranakan (Straits native with mixed vermicelli with sides like luncheon meat, chicken wings, local and foreign ancestry) cuisine with the world. fish cakes or a fried egg).

Singapore’s dining scene… If friends from out of town are here for a visit… has taken on many influences from all over the we’ll start the day with a Singapore-style breakfast world, and it is now more dynamic than ever. Not only of prata (South Indian flatbread typically eaten with do we offer a great range of internationally acclaimed curry or sugar) and teh tarik (frothy hot milk tea) restaurants, we also provide unique dining experiences before heading to the . When the – our local hawker centres are indeed a testimony hunger pangs kick in, we’ll proceed to Keng Eng Kee to that! Seafood for a hearty lunch. We’ll then spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Gardens by the Bay, the Besides Candlenut (of course), my Esplanade and the Fullerton Bay area, which includes favourite restaurants include… taking pictures with the Merlion. For dinner, we’ll visit Imperial Treasure Super Peking Duck Restaurant for the beautiful mod-Sin restaurant Wild Rocket. To end their succulent duck with crispy skin and roast pork; off our adventure, I’ll take them to supper at Feng Mellben Seafood for their butter crab and crab bee Shan Market & Food Centre, commonly known in hoon (rice vermicelli); Keng Eng Kee Seafood for good Singapore as 85.

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 19 Hot 1 Star THE EAT LIST THE EAT ODETTE 2 Stars Tables Julien Royer, the talented chef that MICHELIN EDITION ANDRE helped put Jaan on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, has taken off to make Helmed by -born Chef his own show in Odette. It is upscale Andre Chiang, the eponymous and serves sophisticated, well- restaurant – which also clinched developed food, but Royer manages the third spot in Asia’s 50 Best to keep the fine dining experience Restaurants 2016 – serves up the lighthearted through delightful chef’s unique take on Southern presentations of his amazing French French cuisine. creations that features seasonal, terroir and artisanal produce from 41 Bukit Pasoh Road both local and international sources. (65) 6534 8880 restaurantandre.com #01-04 National Gallery Singapore Outram Park (65) 6385 0498 www.odetterestaurant.com City Hall

3 Stars JOEL ROBUCHON Robuchon – the celebrated French chef with the most 1 Star Michelin stars in the world – spares no expense in his 2 Stars CANDLENUT luxurious Singapore outpost. Highlights include whole LES AMIS Local chef-owner Malcolm Lee’s “Teppanyaki ” seared main lobster Candlenut Kitchen is the first Experience classical French cuisine with romesco sauce, caramelized Peranakan (Straits native with with a touch of Asian aesthetics at quail and mashed potatoes, mixed local and foreign ancestry) Les Amis. Executive Chef Sebastien and grilled and stuffed seasonal establishment to receive a Lepinoy marries French techniques vegetables “Provence style”. Michelin star. The restaurant with Japanese produce to create offers a great mix of traditional unique dishes that appeal to 8 Sentosa Gateway and contemporary Peranakan local palates. The express menu (65) 6577 7888 dishes like itek tim (duck and www.rwsentosa.com features specials like Dover sole salted vegetable soup) as well as HarbourFront cooked “Meunière” with Girolle more intriguing creations like the mushrooms and cider sauce, as well buah keluak (a piquant black nut as seasonal white asparagus from from Indonesia) ice cream with Alsace, roasted and served with Valrhona chocolate and warm young salad leaves. chocolate espuma. 1 Scotts Road #01-03, 331 (65) 6733 2225 (65) 8121 4107 www.lesamis.com.sg www.facebook.com/candlenut.sg Orchard Outram Park

20 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM 1 Star 1 Star 1 Star THE EAT LIST THE EAT CORNER HOUSE ALMA BY JUAN SUMMER PAVILION Set amongst the lush greenery AMADOR Summer Pavilion raises Cantonese of the Botanic Gardens, Corner fine dining to new levels with artfully House pays tribute to EJH Corner, Chef Juan Amador (yes, the same plated dishes like poached rice with the man largely responsible for man behind the now-defunct lobster meat and barbecued Iberico Singapore’s “Green City” status. three Michelin-starred Amador pork with honey sauce. Don’t miss Serving up mostly French-inspired restaurant in Mannheim, Germany) out on traditional desserts like the dishes by local chef Jason Tan – the aims to stun diners with enigmatic sweetened almond tea with snow originator of Gastro-Botanica creations at his restaurant at lotus. cuisine – Corner House features . With an innovative, ever-changing offerings like pigeon with mango 7 Raffles Avenue menu with a strong emphasis on and purple curry and crispy tofu (65) 6434 5286 vegetables and fruits. with langoustine, foie gras and www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ winter truffle, trust us when we singapore/dining/summer-pavilion Esplanade 1 Cluny Road say you’re in for a real treat. (65) 6469 1000 www.cornerhouse.com.sg 22 Scotts Road Botanic Gardens (65) 6735 9937 alma.sg Orchard

1 Star HILL STREET TAI HWA PORK 1 Star 1 Star NOODLE THE SONG Singapore is now the first country OF INDIA TERRA in the world with Michelin-starred This hidden Japanese-Italian hawker stalls, and one of them This swish Indian restaurant restaurant on , the is chef Tang Chay Seng’s humble will give you a comprehensive brainchild of Chef Seita, eatery. Two things make his education on Northern Indian represents the culmination of legendary bowl of bak chor mee eats. Located in a classic black his year-long culinary sabbatical (minced pork noodles) a winner and white heritage bungalow, the through and Italy. His in the MICHELIN Guide’s books: lavishly decorated restaurant will blend of culinary influences is the rich, tasty sauce with lots of have you singing praises of its exemplified in creations like umami flavours, and the addition signatures like nalli gosht (spiced spaghetti with uni, yuzu and of a big stuffed pork wanton in lamb shanks) and lahsoona Jhinga bottarga and scallop gratin with the dish. The cherry on top is the (stuffed prawns in tandoori mushroom herbal butter. crispy piece of fried ti poh (dried marinade). sole fish). 54 Tras Street 33 Scotts Road (65) 6221 5159 #01-12, 466 Crawford Lane (65) 6836 0055 www.terraseita.com www.taihwa.com.sg thesongofindia.com Lavender Newton

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 21 DRINK UP Craft beer Cool frenzy MIKKELLER Bars BAR SINGAPORE Madness Cult Danish beer brewery THE FLAGSHIP Mikkeller’s first outpost in the This fuss-free, New York-style city is fittingly housed at DECK, dive bar has a rock & roll vibe, a cool industrial art space on thanks to its bare-brick walls Prinsep Street. The bar’s 20 plastered with music posters taps offers a mix of the label’s and moody lighting. Whisky is familiar favourites, interesting the name of the game here, collaborative creations and and there are literally over a Singapore-exclusive brews, namely hundred labels from around the Bugis Brown, Prinsep Pilsner and world to choose from. Waterloo Wit. 20 Bukit Pasoh Road 120A Prinsep Street www.theflagship.sg (65) 6352 0950 Outram Park www.facebook.com/MikkellerBarSg Bras Basah

SG’s biggest bar-restaurant HIVE Hive is made up of four concepts: a wine retail store, a bakery, a cigar room and a bar-restaurant. The massive 430-seater is a one- Asian stop shop for shopping, eating, persuasion Cocktail drinking, and chilling out over a BLACK NUT Revelry solid cigar. Quell hunger pangs with Western plates such as Playful with a East-meets-West THE KITCHEN AT chargrilled ribs, and quench your spirit, Black Nut – named after BACCHANALIA (beer) thirst with must-tries such buah keluak, a staple Peranakan as the Benediktiner Weissbier and (Straits native with mixed The food at this one Michelin- the widely raved-about Suntory local and foreign ancestry) starred restaurant is amazing, Kakubin Highball. ingredient – will surprise your but don’t leave without a drink taste buds with its local-inspired or two: wines come from some 407 Havelock Road cocktails – such as the Steady of the world’s finest small batch (65) 8876 1109 Pom Pipi, Kilat Kilat, and Huat producers, and the cocktail menu www.facebook.com/hivebywala consists of modernised classics Tiong Bahru Ah – all infused with Malayan and Chinese spices like lemon grass, like a gin and tonic made with ice gula Melaka (palm sugar) and even infused with elderflower liqueur. chilli padi. 39 Hong Kong Street 2 Emerald Hill Road (65) 9179 4552 (65) 6738 8818 www.bacchanalia.asia www.facebook.com/blacknutsg Clarke Quay Somerset

22 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM Yip Yew Chong SELF-TAUGHT LOCAL STREET ARTIST YIP YEW CHONG SHARES WITH US HIS FAVOURITE SPOTS IN THE QUAINT EVERTON NEIGHBOURHOOD. HOMETOWN

Take a stroll down Everton Road and you’ll see and new trades; some trekking at the Spottiswoode precious scenes of old Singapore: a roadside barber Park forest with its three heritage trees; checking out trimming the hair of a young boy, and an elderly the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station and its backyard woman with a washing board. These stunning and remnants of the railway turntable and Hindu temple; meaningful murals are the works of homegrown and of course, fuelling up at the eateries along the row artist Yip Yew Chong, who was inspired by the public of shophouses fronting Kampong Bahru Road. art he saw in . Here, he spills the beans on hidden gems in Everton Road and what has changed If friends from out of town are here for a in this tranquil vicinity over the years. visit for the first time... I’ll bring them for a laksa (rice noodles served with Everton Road is home… coconut milk-infused broth) breakfast at Chinatown to my first murals. I’ve been living in this area since I Complex Food Centre. Then, we’ll do a quick got married in 1995. I walk past several empty walls walkabout at the wet market on the first floor before at Everton Road on a daily basis, so these walls came making our way to the Sri Mariamman Temple. Next, to mind immediately when the idea of Singapore-style it’s to visit the Thian Hock Keng street art sprouted. Plus, Everton Road has a laid- Temple and Nagore Durgha Muslim Shrine. We’ll grab back and nostalgic charm with its quaint back alleys, a taxi to Bishan to see the Lego-like HDB blocks in Peranakan-styled houses, first-generation HDB flats the neighbourhood, and later to Little India for a late and hippy cafes – ideal for heritage themed murals, lunch of banana leaf curry rice. After lunch, we’ll head which I’m truly passionate about. up to Mount Faber for its panoramic view and a cable car ride into Sentosa. In Sentosa, I’ll show them the The best way to explore Everton Road is… gorgeous Siloso beach and we’ll soak by foot. An itinerary of Everton Road should include our feet in the “South China taking fun photos in front of the heritage murals Sea” for a short while. Before Amah and Barber; chilling out at the 150 year-old leaving the island, we’ll fresco on the façade of No.66 Spottiswoode Park explore the . Road; admiring the Peranakan houses and Art-deco We’ll end the day roaming houses along Everton Road and Blair Road; popping around the Marina Bay into (No. 157) area to soak in Singapore’s and Mr ’s grandfather’s house (No. sparkling night scene. 147) along ; experiencing Everton Park’s first-generation HDB blocks with their mix of old Outram Park

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 23 Navigator Little India THE NAME SAYS IT ALL. THIS VIBRANT NEIGHBOURHOOD IS A SLICE OF INDIA IN MULTI-CULTURAL SINGAPORE. BLENDING THE OLD AND NEW, THE BUZZING ETHNIC ENCLAVE IS PEPPERED WITH SPICE SHOPS, JEWELLERY STORES, FLOWER VENDORS, SARI SPECIALISTS, IN THE ‘HOOD TRENDY CAFES AND HIP WATERING HOLES; EACH OFFERING A HEADY EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER. A GREAT TIME TO VISIT IS IN OCTOBER DURING DEEPAVALI (SEE PAGE 11), BUT EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT HERE IN TIME FOR THE DAZZLING FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, THERE’S STILL PLENTY TO SEE AND DO IN THIS LIVELY DISTRICT. Little India

1. THE TEMPLE OF 4. SRI VEERAMAKALIAMMAN THOUSAND LIGHTS HINDU TEMPLE Also known as Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, the Dedicated to Kali, the Hindu goddess of power, the focal point of this popular temple is the 15-foot seated grand, intricately-designed Sri Veeramakaliamman Buddha that is surrounded by numerous lightbulbs. There’s Temple has a South Indian architectural style and also a statue of the sleeping Buddha in a room below the was established in 1855 – making it one of the main temple hall. oldest religious sites in Singapore.

366 Race Course Road 141 Serangoon Road (65) 6294 0714 (65) 6295 4538 / 6293 4634 www.sriveeramakaliamman.com 2. MUSTAFA CENTRE 5. KOMALA VILAS Think shopping in Little India and one name springs to mind: Mustafa. This 24-hour shopping This 69-year-old establishment is the closest you’ll behemoth sells just about anything. From affordable get to authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. electronics to delicious Indian food, this is paradise It’s always packed as diners can’t get enough of its for bargain-hunters and hardened shopaholics. signature masala dosai (pancake made from rice and lentil batter, filled with mashed potato) served with 145 Syed Alwi Road free-flow sambar (lentil based vegetable stew). (65) 6295 5855 www.mustafa.com.sg 76-78 Serangoon Road (65) 6293 6980 komalavilas.com.sg 3. MUTHU’S CURRY Savour an array of eye-watering, lip-tingling spicy fare 6. at this longstanding restaurant, known for its fish head curry. For less spicy options that won’t leave The galleries within this ultra-modern museum are you sweating, Muthu’s Curry also serves up a range chronologically arranged and spans the period from of flavour-packed Indian fare, from North to South 1st century CE to the 21st century. Here, visitors Indian, with plenty of vegetarian options. can learn about the historical links between the Indian sub-continent and Southeast Asia, as well as #01-01, 138 Race Course Road the experiences of South Asians in Southeast Asia. (65) 6392 1722 www.muthuscurry.com 5 Campbell Lane (65) 6291 1601 www.indianheritage.org.sg

24 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM 7. COCOTTE 10. TEKKA CENTRE Housed within the chic Wanderlust boutique A wet market, food centre and shopping complex in hotel, this hip spot is well known for its communal one, Tekka Centre is the go-to for an Indian cuisine dining where massive platters of meats and pots of fix. Must-tries here include the biryani (a spicy rice mussels get passed between friends and family. Its dish served with chicken or mutton gravy) from fabulous weekend brunch trolleys offer free-flow Yakader or Allauddin; and the Indian rojak (a salad French-inspired sweets and savouries. made up of fried dough fritters, boiled potatoes, cuttlefish, hard boiled eggs, and more) from Temasek 2 Dickson Road Indian Rojak. Finish your meal with a glass of teh tarik (65) 6298 1188 (frothy hot milk tea) from any of the drink stalls!

www.restaurantcocotte.com IN THE ‘HOOD

665 Buffalo Road 8. APOLO BISTRO Opened by the folks from The Banana Leaf Apolo, one of Singapore’s oldest Indian restaurants, Apolo Bistro offers a delectable mix of international fares like Indian, Mexican, Thai and Mediterranean. With its hearty lunch buffet and enticing happy hour deals,Apolo Bistro is definitely a must-visit.

#02-13, 48 Serangoon Road RACE COURSE RD (65) 6291 4646

9. LITTLE INDIA ARCADE Take a walk around this bustling shopping destination to pick up souvenirs such as beautiful silk saris, handicrafts, and dazzling jewellery.

#02-07, 48 Serangoon Road (65) 6295 5998 www.littleindiaarcade.com.sg SYED ALWI RD

SERANGOON RD

JLN BESAR RD DICKSON RD

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 25 Marina Bay

NO SHOPPING JAUNT WOULD BE COMPLETE WITHOUT A VISIT TO THE MARINA BAY AREA. WITH UPSCALE MALLS AT EVERY TURN AND A DIZZYING ARRAY OF SHOPPING DEALS TO BE HAD, YOUR RETAIL THERAPY SESSION STARTS HERE.

RETAIL THERAPY RETAIL Marina Bay

PROENZA SCHOULER

Renowned for its modern tailoring and use of custom fabrics, this luxe label remains ahead of the fash pack this season with edgy, clean silhouettes inspired by art and youth culture. Within its sleek and avant-garde space, expect a full range of the brand’s merchandise, including seasonal must-haves, ready-to- wear and the iconic PS1 satchels and PS11 shoulder bags.

#L1-17 Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands 10 (65) 6304 3565 www.marinabaysands.com/ shopping/proenza-schouler.html Bayfront LOUIS VUITTON

Experience the height of luxury GRAFUNKT shopping at one of the city’s finest sartorial landmarks. Housed in a At this local lifestyle store, design- stunning Crystal Pavilion atop the savvy furniture enthusiasts will be waters of Marina Bay, LV’s Island spoiled for choice with products Maison store is an architectural boasting minimalist, modern masterpiece extensively decked designs, versatile functionality out with the luxury brand’s and top-notch craftsmanship. leather goods, ready-to-wear The range is broad, with a great and accessories. mix of products sourced from as far as Europe and its chic in-house #B1-38 & #B2-36 label GFNKT. Crystal Pavilion North 2 Bayfront Avenue #02-34/35/36 Millenia Walk (65) 6788 3888 9 Raffles Boulevard www.marinabaysands.com/ (65) 6336 6046 shopping/louis-vuitton.html www.grafunkt.com Bayfront Promenade

26 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM SABRINA GOH RETAIL THERAPY RETAIL Drawing inspiration from architectural silhouettes, local label ELOHIM by Sabrina Goh offers strong, sensuous designs that constantly push the envelope – be it structured slip dresses with asymmetrical hems, boxy overcoats with textural details or the perfect pair of relaxed culottes with crisp pleats. ED ET AL #02-14 Capitol Piazza 13 Stamford Road SHOEMAKERS (65) 6358 2158 www.sabrinagoh.com Handcrafted in Singapore by City Hall skilled artisans, the bespoke shoes here are created with only the finest calf leather, and sumptuous exotic skins. Take your pick from a broad range of leather shoes, including Oxfords, loafers, derbys and boots.

#01-67 Millenia Walk 9 Raffles Boulevard (65) 6337 8919 www.edetal.sg Promenade WOMB

Contemporary, innovative and DANIEL YAM MARIMEKKO expressive, Womb’s designs cater to women of all age groups. Frocking up for a fancy ‘do? Head Time to go print crazy! Finnish All pieces are beautifully made to local designer Daniel Yam’s label Marimekko’s first standalone constructions with feminine massive boutique, which houses store in Singapore is utterly silhouettes. Versatile and gorgeous dreamy evening dresses accented gorgeous; expect to see racks in their simplicity, the label deftly with his signature draping, bias- upon racks of super chic apparel, creates the perfect balance cut techniques and sensuous accessories, and homewares in an between casual work outfits silhouettes. The store also offers explosion of the brand’s signature and formal wear. trendy accessories for the perfect vibrant prints. touch. #03-26 Raffles City #02-17/18 Capitol Piazza 252 #02-309/310 Marina Square 13 Stamford Road (65) 6338 9011 6 Raffles Boulevard (65) 6834 4802 www.womb.com.sg (65) 6336 2976 www.marimekko.com City Hall www.danielyam.com City Hall Esplanade HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 27 Take me home 5 DON’T LEAVE SINGAPORE WITHOUT 4 THESE MUST-HAVE LOCAL GEMS. RETAIL THERAPY RETAIL 1

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1. Chilli chompers, set your 3. Beat the heat in style with this Shop Keychain by Souvenirs From tastebuds on fire with homegrown breezy minimalist-chic tri-colour silk Singapore. $12.90.Available at brand Mofo Chili’s Manadonese- blend dress from local womenswear NAIISE orchardgateway inspired chilli paste that’s also label, Beyond The Vines. $69. lard-free and vegan-friendly. Available at Mandarin Gallery 6. Relive the good old times with the $8-$12. Available at Isetan Scotts (#02-21, 333 Orchard Road) nostalgic Happy Family card game, which Supermarket (#B1-00 Shaw House, gets a local update by wheniwasfour. 350 Orchard Road, mofochili.com) 4. With stunning sakura flowers $9.90.Available at wheniwasfour (#02- intertwining a beautiful jade ring, this 18, 261 Waterloo Street) 2. Jazz up your kitchen table with sakura garland necklace by heritage these gorgeous placemats from jeweler Choo Yilin is the ultimate 7. Local nut butter specialist Second Bungalow 55 that depict local statement piece. $788.Available at Helpings’ Tak-Kiu Milo flavour is shophouses. $70 for a set of 4 Choo Yilin (#02-23 Mandarin Gallery) inspired by Singaporeans’ favourite placemats.Available at Bungalow 55 chocolate malt drink. $14.90.Available (#01-05A, 501 Bukit Timah Road, 5. Get acquainted with popular tidbits at HIVE (#01-890, 46 Jalan Bukit Cluny Court) sold at neighbourhood mom-and- Ho Swee) pop provision shops, typically run by a friendly Indian uncle, with Mama

28 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM 14 10

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8. Commemorate Mid-Autumn landscape. $28.Available at The Farm slick clutch by Frankitas is the Festival in September with The Store (#04-20, 261 Waterloo Street) perfect accessory for a girls’ night out. Farm Store’s realistic mooncake $155.Available at TANGS ceramic paper weight in brown or 11. Show your love for nasi lemak, a white. $20.Available at The Farm popular local rice dish in Singapore, with 14. Spruce up your humble abode Store (#04-20, 261 Waterloo Street) this deliciously quirky T-shirt by Nom with Scene Shang’s EMBRACE ME Nom. $34.90.Available at The Farm cushion covers that feature beautiful 9. The classic American sci-fi film Store (#04-20, 261 Waterloo Street) Art Deco buildings in Singapore like gets a local twist with this tongue- Tanjong Pagar Railway Station. $28. in-cheek Kult tote bag starring 12. Dulcetfig is home to a selection Available at TANGS local neighbourhood Balestier. $28. of wearable vintage pieces and Available at NAIISE orchardgateway accessories, including this beautifully 15. Gentlemen, complete your crafted Fan Icy Blue everyday spiffy look by scoring yourself a pair 10. Bring home a little piece of necklace. $49.Available at Dulcetfig of bespoke shoes from Custom Singapore with The Farm Store’s (41 Haji Lane) Made a brand founded by local shoe Neighbourwood – Marina Bay, a set aficionado, from $250.Available of painted wooden toys showcasing 13. Made from traditional hand-dyed at Custom Made (105 Cecil Street, key icons of the famous Marina Bay and hand-woven ethnic textiles, this www.custommade.com.sg)

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 29 Fam-tastic day out TEN GREAT THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN SINGAPORE. BEST DAY EVER! BEST DAY CREATE VIRTUAL REALITIES

Get delightfully lost in virtual cities, underwater scenes and trippy light displays – all while learning about art, nature and our place in the world – at interactive digital playground, Future World.

ArtScience Museum (65) 6688 8888 www.marinabaysands.com/museum/future-world.html Image credit: teamLab Bayfront FUTURE WORLD

TAKE THE FUN INDOORS Escape from the heat at this kid-tastic indoor play centre, which houses ball pits, tunnels, climbing walls, super-fast slides and a dedicated space for babies.

#01-15 Block 8, Dempsey Road (65) 6474 4176 www.gogobambini.com Orchard FOREST GO-GO BAMBINI ADVENTURE

ROLE PLAY A SWING FROM DREAM JOB TREES Unleash your inner More than an indoor theme Tarzan at this treetop park, this mini metropolis obstacle course. Get your city lets children explore a pulse racing with wobbly life-sized Boeing 737, earn logs, rope ladders, the their own salaries and live out exhilarating zipline and their dream jobs with over 80 a free fall from an eight- exciting role-play activities. metre platform.

Sentosa Island 825 Bedok Resevoir Park (65) 6653 688 (65) 8100 7420 www.kidzania.com.sg www.forestadventure.com.sg HarbourFront KIDZANIA Bedok

30 WANT MORE? VISIT WWW.YOURSINGAPORE.COM BE ONE WITH NATURE Dubbed the “Gardening Hub” of Singapore, this is the place to go to encourage green thumbs amongst the tots! With themed gardens, greenhouses and workshops, HortPark is a Image credit: Derrick See green wonderland for kids. JURONG Image credit: 33 Hyderabad Road BIRD PARK EVER! BEST DAY (65) 6471 5601 www.nparks.gov.sg HORTPARK Labrador Park FEED A FEATHERED FRIEND RIDE A Asia’s biggest bird park houses HERITAGE TRAIL more than 5,000 winged wonders across 400 species, Soak in the sights and sounds of the including some of the largest colourful Little India and Bugis districts free-flying aviaries in the world. on board the nostalgic trishaw and Get ready to be wowed! discover the myriad of quaint shops, temples and historic landmarks. 2 (65) 6265 0022 (65) 6337 7111 www.birdpark.com.sg www.trishawuncle.com.sg TRISHAW RIDE

ENTER A MOVIE WORLD Southeast Asia’s only Hollywood theme park is a movie-lover’s playground; the entire park is decked out with film- themed cutting-edge rides and attractions, designed to thrill adrenaline junkies.

8 Sentosa Gateway SINGAPORE UNIVERSAL (65) 6577 8888 RIVER CRUISE STUDIOS www.rwsentosa.com ® HarbourFront CRUISE DOWN SINGAPORE A RIVER DESIGN YOUR Cruise down the Singapore River OWN PANCAKES and get acquainted with the city’s mix of historic and city sights. Rope in the kids into making their own Marvel at the colonial facade breakfast at this popular DIY pancake joint. of Fullerton Hotel and soak in Simply choose from five batters (don’t glittering lights of the city skyline. forget the toppings!), and start cooking away at your table’s built-in hot plate.

59 #01-29, 26 Sentosa Gateway (65) 6336 6111 (65) 6795 0779 www.rivercruise.com.sg www.slappycakes.com.sg Clarke Quay HarbourFront SLAPPY CAKES

HAD A GOOD TIME? SHARE IT WITH US AT #YOURSINGAPORE 31 MRT Map & Practical Apps MAPS & APPS

AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON APP STORE AND GOOGLE PLAY

MICHELIN SG SINGAPORE HERITAGE TRAILS Find the full selection of Michelin-starred, Bib Uncover the stories behind Gourmand, and selected restaurants, neighbourhoods like Balestier and eateries and local hawker favourites. . SMRT CONNECT TRIPADVISOR Locate the nearest train station or Read millions of travel reviews on the bus stop, check arrival times, and plan best places to eat, sleep, shop and play. your journey. GST REFUNDS As a tourist in Singapore, you can claim a refund on the 7 per cent Goods and Services Tax (GST) under the Tourist Tax Refund Scheme if you make any purchases of more than S$100 at participating shops – and it’s super easy too!

Look out for these signs at the shops. You can choose to have the refund credited directly 1 5 into your credit card at the eTRS self-help kiosk, or get cash refund. If you choose the latter (available only at Changi International Airport), proceed to the Central Refund Counter Choose one credit/debit card as a Token for tagging after the immigration checks. 2 your purchases. Don’t forget to ask for your eTRS Ticket, original invoice or receipt! At the eTRS kiosk, swipe your assigned Token to retrieve Apply for your tax refund at the eTRS self-help kiosk 4 your purchase details. Otherwise, scan your eTRS tickets 3 located at the airport or international cruise centres. Be to retrieve your purchase details. sure to file your GST claims before checking in your goods. For more information and eligibility for GST refunds, please go to www.iras.gov.sg

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