SINGAPORE INSIDER JAN · FEB · MAR

People I Places I Events I Dining I Nightlife

SINGAPORE WAS NAMED WORLD’S TOP DESTINATION IN THE LONELY PLANET BEST IN TRAVEL 2015

Just sayin!

And in case you don’t know, this is Lonely Planet’s annual collection of the best trends, destinations, and experiences for the year ahead, so it’s pretty darn cool.

Well done you - you’ve already landed! So hello and welcome to the City (turning 50 this year!). We’re so glad you’ve come to see what all the fuss is about.

Whether you have time for a deep dive or just a few days to scratch the surface, you’ll be delighted by contemporary Singapore – a rich cultural city ofering fabulous hawker food, Southeast ’s best shopping and innovative, stylish restaurants, bars, and so much more.

Singapore Insider brings you the authentic local experience of Singapore, not just the mainstream tourist trails. We’ve curated the best and latest of Singapore to make sure you’ll never want to leave town.

Of course it’s not all about shopping and eating! You’ve come at a great time of year to see Singapore at its festive best and usher in the year of the Goat. Witness the annual , catch a lion – or eight for good luck, and just meander the streets of Chinatown soaking up the sights, smells and sounds. (Order your cofee in local lingo with our special guide – see page 25).

The city’s biggest art event, Singapore Art Week, kicks of in January, and for music lovers of all persuasions (we won’t judge), there are Broadway musicals, indie music at St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival, One Direction’s Singapore debut, and the Singapore International Jazz Festival to rock out to.

Take a deep breath people!

CHRIS EDWARDS AND THE HONEYCOMBERS

FOUNDER & WRITERS THE HONEYCOMBERS For general enquiries, MANAGING DIRECTOR Samantha David [email protected] contact the SINGAPORE Chris Edwards Shairah Thoufeekh TOURISM BOARD Tourism HO PRINTING Court, 1 Orchard Spring Lane Marissa Trew MANAGING EDITOR SINGAPORE PTE LTD Singapore 247729 Tel: (65) 6736 6622 Nina Hearne DESIGNERS 31 South Street 1 Singapore 486769 Fax: (65) 6736 9423 Alif Tee Touristline: 1800 736 2000

SINGAPORE EDITOR Debbie Ng (outside Singapore) Crystal Lee STB is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of this COVER PHOTO: publication and shall not be liable HONEYKIDS EDITOR Laila Lu, photographed for any damage, loss, injury or Skye Wellington by Suasti Lye inconvenience arising from or in connection with the content of this SALES & MARKETING publication. You should verify or seek clarifcation from the individual third Kate Reynolds parties referred to in this publication. MA 001 05 15 Q1

www.YourSingapore.com Singapore 02 CONTENTS Art Week: What to catch 03 IN THE KNOW Essential information about Singapore 04 WHAT’S ON Exciting events in the months ahead 10 FEATURE Blogger Laila Lu shares her favourite places 12 SINGAPORE ART WEEK Exhibitions you can’t miss

13 How Singapore celebrates 14 IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD A walking tour of Chinatown 16 SEE & DO 10 must-dos in Singapore 18 EAT The best and latest on the Singapore dining scene 22 DRINK The hottest of Singapore’s nightlife

24 HOME TOWN Huayi - Peter Wee of the iconic Katong Antique House takes a trip down memory lane Chinese Festival of Arts Meeting 25 #LIKEALOCAL Peter Wee Singlish words and phrases to know 26 SHOPPING Local designers, shopping malls and multi-label stores – here’s where to shop and what to buy 30 FAMILY FUN Things to do with the little ones 32 MAPS & APPS Train routes and recommended downloads

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 02 03 CONTENTS IN THE KNOW

TRANSPORT TIPPING VISITOR CENTRES MRT It is not usual practice to tip Orchard Trains run from 5.30am to in Singapore, although it is Junction of Cairnhill Road and 12.00am. Standard tickets vary appreciated by service staf. , 9.30am-10.30pm from $1.10 to $2.20. See page Most hotels and restaurants daily (till mid-February 2015), 32 for map. quote prices as “++,” which Somerset SMRT Hotline includes 10 percent service orchardgateway (65) 6331 1000 charge and 7 percent goods 216 Orchard Road, 9.30am- www.smrt.com.sg and services tax (GST). 10.30pm daily (from mid- Bus February 2015), Fares start from as low as 77 Somerset cents. Try to have the exact fare as bus drivers do not ION Orchard give change. Level 1 Concierge, 2 Orchard SMRT Hotline HANDY Turn, 10am-10pm daily, (65) 6331 1000 HINTS Orchard www.sbstransit.com.sg Chinatown www.smrt.com.sg 2 (Behind Buddha Taxi Tooth Relic Temple and Fares start from $3.00. Museum), Mon-Fri 9am-9pm Comfort and CityCab and Weekends and Public (65) 6552 1111 Holidays 9am-10pm Premier Cabs Chinatown (65) 6363 6888 Tourist Hotline SMRT Taxis WORRY-FREE SHOPPING (65) 1800 736 2000 (toll-free (65) 6555 8888 in Singapore) As in any city, there are a few (65) 6736 2000 (overseas) establishments in Singapore that give fair, reputable businesses a bad name, making your shopping experience less than ideal. Shopping tips (for example, always do price LANGUAGE comparisons and enquire on English is the spoken language, refund policies before making though Singlish – a collection a purchase) can be found of colloquial catch phrases and on the Consumer Advisory SAFE DRINKING WATER lingo – dominates the everyday section at YourSingapore.com Water in Singapore passes World conversations amongst the (under “Traveller Essentials”). Health Organization standards, locals (see page 25). Mandarin, For assistance call the Tourist which means you can drink Malay, Tamil, and various Hotline (see right) or email directly from the tap. Bottled dialects are also used. [email protected]. water can also be bought easily.

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 04 01 WHAT’S ON Art Stage Chet Faker Singapore Peter Pan

Kidsfest! Laneway Festival Singapore

PETER PAN, THE WORLD JANUARY NEVER ENDING PRESS PHOTO It’s a brand new year, and there’s much to STORY EXHIBITION Watch your favourite childhood look forward to. Art SINGAPORE characters Peter Pan and Wendy lovers, don’t miss the This intriguing outdoor come to life in this theatrical exhibition displays award- city’s biggest art event, spectacular. The classic tale winning photojournalism and Singapore Art Week. takes on a modern twist with documentary photography Music lovers, get ready iconic pop songs you can sing from around the world. along to. for a rolling good time Jan 10 to Feb 1 with Broadway musical Until Jan 20 Rafes Hotel Arcade Resorts World™ Theatre CATS, and indie music www.worldpressphoto.asia www.rwsentosa.com event, St. Jerome’s City Hall HarbourFront Laneway Festival. There’s PONGAL FESTIVAL also plenty on for those CATS Celebrate the Indian Harvest with little ones in tow! Andrew Lloyd Webber’s smash- Festival in historic Little . hit musical, CATS, returns to Enjoy the decorative lights, and Singapore. Be dazzled by sample the customary sweet stunning choreography in one dish made from rice and milk. of the longest-running West End and Broadway shows. Jan 10 to 25 Campbell Lane, Hastings Road Jan 9 to Feb 1 and Road MasterCard Theatres at Marina www.littleindia.com.sg Bay Sands® Little India www.marinabaysands.com Bayfront

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 04 05 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON

World Press Photo M1 Singapore Fringe Exhibition Singapore Festival 2015

CATS Kidsfest! Singapore

M1 SINGAPORE KIDSFEST! ST. JEROME’S FRINGE FESTIVAL SINGAPORE 2015 LANEWAY 2015 This world-class theatre FESTIVAL Catch the 11th annual Fringe festival for the littlies features SINGAPORE Festival as artists explore a series of eight exciting stage Catch international and local the theme of “Art and Loss” productions including The musicians like Chet Faker, through theatre, flm, dance Grufalo, and storybook classic, Lykke Li and Little Dragon at and photography. Highlights The Tiger Who Came To Tea. Singapore’s marquee indie include The Duchamp Syndrome Jan 21 to Mar 1 music festival. by Por Piedad and How SOTA Drama Theatre Loneliness Goes by Nguan. www.kidsfest.com.sg Jan 24 The Meadow at Gardens Jan 14 to 25 By The Bay Various venues singapore.lanewayfestival.com www.singaporefringe.com ART STAGE SINGAPORE Bayfront SINGAPORE ART See contemporary art at its best CHINATOWN WEEK 2015 in the ffth edition of Southeast The third edition of the Asia’s fagship cultural event, CHINESE Singapore Art Week promises featuring visual art pieces that NEW YEAR to be an even larger visual explore the unique identities of artists from around the region. CELEBRATIONS feast with nearly 100 art events Chinatown comes alive with held at galleries and museums Jan 22 to 25 dazzling street displays, stage island-wide. Sands Expo & shows and festive bazaars. Jan 17 to 25 Convention Centre www.artstagesingapore.com Jan 30 to Mar 19 Various venues Various venues Bayfront www.artweek.sg www.chinatownfestivals.sg Chinatown

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 06 02 WHAT’S ON Terry Fox Run

Keepers

Lily Allen

STILL MOVING: A LILY ALLEN LIVE IN FEBRUARY TRIPLE BILL ON SINGAPORE Singapore will come THE IMAGE The British indie-pop sensation makes her debut in Singapore, to life with the sights Explore three co-curated performing hits from her latest multimedia exhibitions focusing and sounds of cultural best selling album, Sheezus. on artistic interpretations of festivities this month. visual culture (how we create, Feb 2 Gaze in awe as thousands share and consume images). The Star Theatre of people gather on www.thestar.sg Until Feb 8 Serangoon Road for the Thaipusam festival. www.singaporeartmuseum.sg THAIPUSAM Celebrate Chinese New Year with the annual Join thousands of Hindus KEEPERS: as they embark on a 4.5km walk Chingay Parade, River SINGAPORE carrying milk pots and elaborate Hongbao and Huayi - Kavadis (some of which are Chinese Festival of the DESIGNER pierced into the skin), in a Arts. Run for a cause, COLLECTIVE ceremonial worship of and catch the old school Shoppers will love this design Lord Subrahmanya. Singapore spirit at the collective and retail pop- Feb 2 to 3 Great World Cabaret. up in the heart of Orchard, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and showcasing fashion, homeware Sri Thendayuthapani Temple and food by local designers Little India and and artisans. Until Feb 15 Orchard Green www.keepers.com.sg Somerset

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 06 07 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON

Huayi - Thaipusam Chinese Festival of Arts

Marina Party Dash Still Moving

TERRY FOX RUN RIVER HONGBAO HUAYI - CHINESE Lace up your running shoes and 2015 FESTIVAL OF ARTS join the annual 5km or 10km fun Usher in the Year of the Goat Huayi celebrates visual and run to raise money for cancer and immerse yourself in performing arts showcases research in Singapore, in honour and traditions by Chinese artists. Highlights of Canadian athlete and activist, at this annual event. Try unique include Rice by Cloud Gate Terry Fox. festive delicacies and gaze at Dance Theatre of and Feb 8 spectacular lantern displays. What Is Sex? by renowned Hong Big Splash at East Feb 17 to 28 Kong director, Edward Lam. Coast Parkway The Float at Marina Bay Feb 20 to Mar 1 www.canadians.org.sg www.riverhongbao.sg Esplanade Dakota Promenade www.huayifestival.com City Hall MARINA GREAT WORLD PARTY DASH CABARET CHINGAY PARADE Not just any fun run, this 5km Get a blast from the past with Cast your eyes on Asia’s largest dash encourages everyone to an eclectic series of entertaining annual street performance dress in bizarre outfts, dance shows. The Cabaret features and carnival parade flled along the track and squirt each a line-up of Singapore’s best with colourful foats and other with water pistols. Join stand-up comedians and one stilt walkers, as well as both the picnic with live music at the of Asia’s top illusion acts. traditional and modern multi- end of the race. cultural performances. Feb 19 to Mar 17 Feb 15 Resorts World™ Theatre Feb 27 to 28 Bay East at Gardens www.rwsentosa.com F1 Pit Building By The Bay www.chingay.org.sg HarbourFront www.marinapartydash.com.sg Promenade Bayfront

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 08 03 WHAT’S ON Transformers One Direction

The Great Singapore Egg-Venture Design Week

TRANSFORMERS SINGAPORE MARCH 30TH ANNIVERSARY INTERNATIONAL Satisfy every sense this month with smooth EXHIBITION JAZZ FESTIVAL Transformers turn 30, and fans Singapore’s only jazz festival, sounds from the will come face to face with this four-day festival pays Singapore International the seven-metre tall Optimus tribute to jazz and jazz-inspired Jazz Festival. If British Prime and Bumblebee fgures music by local and international boy bands are more at this action-packed exhibit. musicians, including Bobby your style, catch One Highlights include a laser maze McFerrin and Jessie J. and 3D visual projections. Direction’s frst ever Mar 5 to 8 Singapore performance. Until Mar 1 ® The Annexe at Science Centre www.sing-jazz.com Keep your forks at the www.science.edu.sg Bayfront ready and feast on this East month’s extravagant SINGAPORE culinary oferings at Salon SALON GOURMET DESIGN WEEK As the gastronomic hub of Asia, Gourmet and Savour, too! Attend this engaging design fair Singapore is dedicating March and learn to appreciate design to the diverse favours of through local and international European cuisine through trade shows and workshops that visiting chefs, award-winning are open to the public. restaurants and a whole range of gourmet products. Mar 10 to 22 Various venues Mar 1 to 31 www.designsingapore.org Various venues Bugis

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 08 09 WHAT’S ON WHAT’S ON

Bobby McFerrin

Savour

Eva Nargoodah

ONE DIRECTION: THE GREAT BEAUTY AND ON THE ROAD EGG-VENTURE THE BEAST AGAIN TOUR 2015 Celebrate Easter at Singapore’s From the producers of the Sing along to chart-topping hits largest Easter festa and hunt critically acclaimed The Lion like “Best Song Ever” and “What for over 100 hand-painted giant King, this musical tells the tale Makes You Beautiful” as the eggs throughout and of a young prince trapped in British pop boy-band sensation, HarbourFront area. There’ll be the body of a beast, by a curse One Direction, performs live in a plethora of activities to keep that will only be broken once Singapore for the very frst time. both young and old entertained. he learns to love and be loved. Mar 11 Mar 14 to Apr 5 Mar 21 to Apr 12 National Stadium HarbourFront Mastercard Theatres at www.sportshub.com.sg www.shba.org.sg Marina Bay Sands® HarbourFront www.marinabaysands.com Stadium Bayfront EVA NARGOODAH SLEEPING BEAUTY SAVOUR Be enchanted as the Singapore SOLO EXHIBITION Food fanatics, indulge in Dance Theatre brings the Contemporary art meets native Singapore’s biggest gourmet magical fairy tale, Sleeping culture with works by Aboriginal food festival as top local and Beauty, to life as a classical ballet, artist, Eva Nargoodah, famed international chefs prepare performed to a dramatic musical for her use of bold colour and award-winning cuisine at score by the famed Russian themes of the seasons, food afordable prices. composer, Tchaikovsky. and fowers. Mar 26 to 29 Mar 12 to 15 Mar 18 to May 2 F1 Pit Building Esplanade Theatre ReDot Fine Art Gallery at www.savour.sg www.singaporedancetheatre.com ArtSpace@Helutrans Promenade City Hall www.mangkaja.com

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore

11 FEATURE Laila Lu

MEET OUR COVER GIRL LAILA LU, LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR AND FOUNDER OF HIP FASHION BLOG, ROCK THE TREND. SHE SHARES HER PICKS OF THE BEST OF SINGAPORE.

ocial media guru by day, No-one should leave blogger by moonlight, Singapore without... a walk Sher rise to prominence around Marina Bay at night. I through the digital media have been to Marina Bay for the revolution represents a hundredth time and it still looks generation. She says growing breathtaking to me. It feels up in such a vibrant and diverse great just to stand and soak up city gave her all the inspiration the atmosphere. The best view she needed. is from the top of Marina Bay Sands and also the . Singapore’s best kept secret is... Telok Ayer. This street alone Creative communes... are sums up Singapore – with its thriving in Singapore. Some Chinese temple, Indian Muslim of Singapore’s best and most Heritage Centre, a Mosque (one promising designers are all of the earliest in Singapore) and gathered in . a church. Some of Singapore’s oldest hawker food stalls sit at Local designers are... loyal. Laila wears local label Kae Hana one end of the street and a year I once asked a homegrown old MRT station at the other. designer why they wouldn’t friends with the (cofee) There are also lots of bars and move overseas. The answer uncle. I have foreign colleagues restaurants selling cuisine from is that their contribution to who are so proud of their kopi Vietnamese to Mediterranean the local design scene and ordering skills. I usually get my to , and many ofces being part of the growth here local cofee at Ya Kun within the shophouses in are much more important or the cofee shops along the between. All that in ONE street! to them. My favourite local junction of label is Reckless Ericka, they and . The nightlife scene here is... have a thing with shapes and the after-party of the after are probably one of the most Healthy... is the new black. party. All the top nightspots outstanding established labels Juice cleanse is super hot right and bars are in quite close in Singapore. now in Singapore, as well as proximity so you can roll funky yoga and cycling studios. from one to the next – the High tea... means teh-siu dai Oh, and cycling generally. I party never has to end. My (tea with condensed milk and cycle everywhere! ideal itinerary would be a frst less sugar) for me. Nothing drink at Anti:dote at Fairmont, makes you more Singaporean followed by Bitters & Love, and than ordering your cofee or fnishing up dancing at Zouk. tea the local way and making

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 12 WHAT’S ON Singapore Art Week 2015

anuary is a wonderful Love gallery-hopping? Then If you have time for only one month for art enthusiasts. jump onboard an Art In event during Singapore Art JSingapore Art Week Motion (AIM) bus from 16 to Week 2015, then be sure to (www.artweek.sg) is happening 25 January (www.agas.org.sg/ have Art Stage Singapore from 17 to 25 January, and aim_event.acv). Organised by (22 to 25 January, the massive nine-day festival The Art Galleries Association www.artstagesingapore.com) is studded with blockbuster Singapore, this curated tour on your agenda. The fagship art fairs, gallery openings, showcases 18 dynamic galleries art fair of is curatorial tours, and more for across art clusters in Singapore. hosting a diverse mix of Asia’s every kind of art lover. best galleries, alongside their Catch the Prudential portfolio of established and On show now till 15 March Singapore Eye Exhibition emerging artists. is Asia Pacifc Breweries from 17 January to 28 June Foundation Signature Art (ArtScience Museum, Marina Art enclave Gillman Prize 2014 Finalists Exhibition Bay Sands®, Bayfront Avenue, Barracks’ Art After Dark at the Singapore Art Museum www.singaporeeye.com). Held (23 January, 9 Lock Road, (71 , in celebration of Singapore’s www.gillmanbarracks.com) is www.singaporeartmuseum.sg/ 50th anniversary, it presents the hosting an outdoor party of signatureartprize). It features works of 17 artists in an eye- arts-based fringe events and the top 15 contemporary opening display that engages foodie pop-ups. Don’t miss artworks shortlisted from all the senses. DRIVE, the Barracks’ frst curated the namesake competition, outdoor art exhibition. and visitors can vote for their favourites online.

Asia Pacifc Breweries Foundation Signature Art Prize 2014 Art After Dark

Art Stage Singapore Art In Motion

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 12 13 WHAT’S ON CHINESE NEW YEAR How Singapore celebrates

Photo credit: fickr.com - Choo Yut Shing he festivities for Chinese exchanging oranges, and pomelo, and more. The idea New Year seem to get giving out ang bao (red is to get everyone around the T bigger and bolder as the packets with money). The table to toss the ingredients up years go by. However, the ideas oranges signify prosperity, in the air using chopsticks, all and beliefs behind its traditions while the money-flled red while reciting phrases of well remain unchanged. packets represent good luck, wishes of luck and success. The and are believed to ward higher you toss, the better. But One of the most elaborate of evil spirits. The latter is be warned: it’s a messy afair! rituals is the lion dance – an typically given out by married energetic performance by couples to single people, More deliciousness ensues acrobatic dance troupes. particularly children. with iconic Chinese New Chances are you’ll see a couple Year goodies like bak kwa of acts on the streets around Another popular practice in (barbecued meat) and the Chinese New Year period, Singapore is the pineapple tarts; items you’ll which takes place in the month toss, which is carried out at constantly see on ofer during of February. Don’t be taken home or when dining out this festive period. Both edibles aback by all the noise, it’s at restaurants as part of the symbolise good things like meant to ward of bad luck for traditional . wealth and prosperity, so give the Lunar New Year. Yusheng is a raw fsh salad these seasonal specials a try that comes with an array when you’re in the Lion City! More traditions are observed of ingredients including at home, like spring-cleaning shredded vegetables, crushed the house before the holidays, peanuts, fried four crisps,

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 14 IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD Chinatown Straddling the line between old and new is the bustling enclave of Chinatown. The heritage-rich, kitschy tourist-chic spot has pretty much everything you can think of, from fascinating temples and souvenir shops to local food hawker stalls and cool bars. If you’re in town during the month of February, this is where to soak up Chinese New Year festivities. Plus, stay connected with free Wi-Fi available in the area.

1. KONG CHOW WUI KOON 4. ENJOY TEA One of Singapore’s oldest Pick up tea and tea accessories Chinese clan associations, Kong at this retail store on Sago Chow Wui Koon was founded in Street, which also ofers tea 1840 to promote the traditions demonstrations and tasting of Chinese culture. sessions. Choose from a range of Chinese teas alongside 321 agarwood tea from . www.kongchow.org (65) 6223 9806 #01-01,18 3 (65) 6221 7479 2. CHINATOWN FOOD STREET Get your hands on signature local dishes in one spot at Chinatown Food Street. Try 2 chicken rice, (stir ), and roti prata (South Indian fat bread). 335 Smith Street www.chinatown.sg

3. MEI HEONG YUEN DESSERT

Sweeten your day with EU TONGNEW SEN BRIDGE ST RD traditional Chinese food at this heritage establishment. Order the bird’s nest soup, or 1 pick something from the snow ice range. KEONG SAIK RD 63-67 Temple Street www.meiheongyuendessert. com.sg (65) 6221 1156

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 14 5. BUDDHA TOOTH RELIC 6. LOMOGRAPHY 7. M Y T H O LO GY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD TEMPLE & MUSEUM GALLERY STORE Pop into this multi-label fashion Learn about Buddhism at this Photography enthusiasts, boutique for one-of-a-kind majestic temple, which also make a stop at this cool store. items by both established and houses a museum, as well as the Browse the arresting shots up-and-coming Asian designers Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic that taken by members of the local such as Shanghainese accessory is placed in a giant gold stupa. Lomography Society as well as brand, Josie Chen. 288 accessories, bags and T-shirts. 88 www.btrts.org.sg 295 South Bridge Road www.my-thology.com (65) 6220 0220 www.lomography.sg (65) 6223 5570 (65) 6223 8850 8. SRI MARIAMMAN TEMPLE Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, built in 1827 and 10 now a national monument, is a beautiful sight to behold. UPPER CROSS ST It’s dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, whose power is to MOSQUE ST cure illness and disease. 9 244 South Bridge Road www.heb.gov.sg (65) 6296 3469

9. UTTERLY ART Art gallery and exhibition space 8 Utterly Art hosts a diverse mix TEMPLE ST of works by local and regional artists. Most exhibits are free of charge, and shows change

SOUTH BRIDGE RD every fortnight. Level 3, 20B 4 www.utterlyart.com.sg SMITH ST 7 CLUB ST (65) 9487 2006 By appointment only

10. SPRING COURT 5 This time-tested dining spot is known for its amazing Peking 6 duck, but don’t forget to try other items like the steamed garoupa and double boiled prawn dumpling soup. ANN SIANG RD 52-56 Upper www.springcourt.com.sg (65) 6449 5030

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 10

1

4

3

5 10 MUST-DOS

IN SINGAPORE 2 8

7

9

6 17 SEE & DO

1. CATCH A SHOW 4. SPEND A DAY IN Little India. Tuck into tasty AT ESPLANADE Indian cuisine at Muthu’s Curry, visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Be spoilt for choice at this Hop on a bumboat and head Temple, and shop at Mustafa world-class performing arts to the neighbouring island of Centre 24/7! centre, which has a year- Pulau Ubin. Admire abundant Various locations round lineup of impressive wildlife at the www.littleindia.com.sg international music acts, Wetlands, and step back in festivals, and theatre time to spot Singapore’s last 8. CRUISE DOWN THE productions. remaining kampongs (Malay hamlets or villages). 1 Esplanade Drive Jump aboard the Singapore www.esplanade.com Pulau Ubin, Singapore River Cruise for a scenic ride (65) 6828 8377 5. HAVE A down the river, hitting all Esplanade SUNDOWNER the hottest riverside spots like Clarke Quay, , 2. COMMUNE WITH For unbeatable 360° views Esplanade, and Bayfront South. of the city, take to the skies NATURE AT GARDENS Various locations at KU DÉ TA. This ultra luxe BY THE BAY www.singapore-river.com restaurant-cum-lounge is the Take a walk 22 metres above place to see and be seen. 9. WALK ON THE ground at the Supertrees SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands®, vertical gardens or marvel WILD SIDE Tower 3, 1 Bayfront Avenue at the world’s tallest indoor www.marinabaysands.com/ Get up close and personal waterfalls in the Cloud Forest sands-skypark with the animal kingdom at at this award-winning The and River (65) 6688 7688 horticultural park. Safari. Cosy up to resident giant Bayfront 18 Marina Gardens Drive pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia by day, then hit the Night Safari. www.gardensbythebay.com.sg 6. GO MUSEUM- (65) 6420 6848 HOPPING Singapore Zoo, , Bayfront and Night Safari, You don’t have to be a 80 Lake Road 3. EXPERIENCE culture vulture to appreciate www.zoo.com.sg SENTOSA ISLAND Singapore’s rich history and (65) 6269 3411 fourishing art scene. Tour the + They don’t call it The State Of National Museum of Singapore, connecting bus service 927 Fun for nothing. Aside from Singapore Art Museum, Asian pristine beaches and top-notch Civilisations Museum, and 10. GO CAFÉ- dining, try thrilling rides at ArtScience Museum. Universal Studios Singapore™, HOPPING Various locations indoor skydiving at iFly Hipster ‘hood is Singapore, or fow boarding at home to some of the most Wave House Sentosa. 7. EXPLORE happening cafés on the island. Sentosa Island LITTLE INDIA Your hit list should include Tiong Bahru Bakery and PS www.sentosa.com.sg With thronging crowds and a Café Petit. (65) 1800-SENTOSA frenetic buzz, nowhere else HarbourFront makes you feel more alive than Various locations

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 18 HONEYCOMBERS RECOMMENDS Eat

MAXWELL FOOD JUMBO SEAFOOD SWEE CHOON CENTRE RESTAURANT TIM-SUM

Have a taste of Singapore’s local Singapore’s number one culinary Sample classic Cantonese hawker delights at Maxwell export to the world is none delicacies at this heritage Food Centre. This massive dining other than , and this eatery, even well past midnight! enclave is home to over 100 restaurant chain is the go-to Your order should food stalls, all with diferent place for the national dish. include options like char siew specialties. Try chicken rice from The gravy accompanying the pau (barbecued pork bun) and Tian Tian (Anthony Bourdain’s a favoursome crab at Jumbo is har kao (shrimp dumplings). fan), wholesome congee from doused in chilli sauce and richly If you love spicy food, order Zhen Zhen Porridge, and nasi layered with egg. If East Coast the oil chilli wantons lemak (rice cooked in coconut isn’t part of your itinerary, check (dumplings) for that fery kick. milk served with a variety of out other outlets in Riverside Don’t forget to fnish with the liu ingredients) from Lagi Best Point, The Riverwalk and sha bao (salted egg yolk . Dempsey Hill. custard buns)! 1 Kadayanallur Street #01-07/08, East Coast 191 Jalan Besar Tanjong Pagar Seafood Centre, Block 1206 www.sweechoon.com East Coast Parkway (65) 6225 7788 www.jumboseafood.com.sg Lavender (65) 6442 3435 Photo credits fickr.com - Nate Roberts fickr.com - L W Yang

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 18 19 HONEYCOMBERS RECOMMENDS HONEYCOMBERS RECOMMENDS Eat

WILD ROCKET FOC FUKU

There’s no better place to try New Spanish tapas and cocktail Fine dining establishment Fuku Mod Sin (short for Modern bar FOC – run by Michelin- is the frst restaurant in Asia , a fusion starred chef Nandu Jubany – outside of to serve fugu, of Western and local favours) serves up addictive Catalan and also known as puferfsh. The fare than Wild Rocket, where Mediterranean-inspired oferings potentially fatal delicacy can be creator-chef Willin Low helms like black mediterranean paella, enjoyed a la carte (fugu steamed the kitchen. We liked the patatas bravas, and mixes such egg, fugu milt), or as a multi- (-based curry broth) as the Good Old Diplomatic course dinner (six courses from pesto risotto and the salted egg Pal (made with Diplomatico $150 per person). crab ball, but the menu changes Rum and house-made cofee #01-01,14 Mohamed every month so you’re always in vermouth blend). Sultan Road for a surprise here. 40 HongKong Street (65) 6235 8216 Hangout Hotel, www.focrestaurant.com Clarke Quay 10A Upper Wilkie Road (65) 6100 4040 www.wildrocket.com.sg Clarke Quay (65) 6339 9448 Little India

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 20 DISHES DECONSTRUCTED Laksa

SLURP! Chinese Laksa broth, made with chicken 328 Katong Laksa is arguably the fishcake stock, ikan bilis (anchovies), most famous establishment for laksa, coconut milk, a dash of fish and more so after its winning cook-of sauce, and rempah against celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay (spice paste consisting of dried in 2013. For more laksa spots, visit shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, tiny.cc/laksa. turmeric, garlic, star anise, and coriander seed)

Tau ghey Sambal belacan (beansprouts) (shrimp paste chilli)

Finely chopped Thick rice fresh laksa leaves vermicelli (also known as daun kesom or Tau pok Vietnamese mint) (fried beancurd puff)

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 20 21 DISHES DECONSTRUCTED DISH IT UP Ryan Clift

CHEF OWNER OF TIPPLING CLUB IN TANJONG PAGAR, RYAN CLIFT TELLS US WHERE TO EAT CRAB AND HOW JAZZED HE IS ON BEING NAMED KRUG’S LATEST AMBASSADE.

empsey was a great location for my frst Snow Crab, liquid onion rings and chive yoghurt, restaurant, and now I have a little passion if I say so myself! We’re utterly humbled to be in Dproject there, a ‘farm’ growing herbs to the company of London’s Fat Duck and Mégève’s service my kitchen. It’s also where I take visiting Flocon de Sel, as Krug’s Ambassade to Singapore. friends for Singapore’s best crabs – Long Beach at Dempsey Hill. I’m impressed at how Singapore has managed to maintain its food DNA amidst massive Modern gastronomy is about real food and mad advancements and a booming tourism science that honours ingredients frst, then taste, industry. The roti prata (South Indian fat bread) texture, temperature, smell, and sound. and murtabak (South Indian fat bread with mincemeat flling) at Adam Road Food Centre is A private dining room is a must in this country. amazing for supper (they are open past 2am), and Bin 38 at Tippling Club was designed for diners even better with a skin full! looking for the ultimate exclusive dining experience in Asia. Singapore is still new in terms of high end dining but the scene is growing so Tippling Club, 38 Tanjong Pagar Road we’re all in for a treat over the next few years. www.tipplingclub.com (65) 6475 2217 Pleasure beyond perfection is a term you Tanjong Pagar understand when you pair a Krug 2003 with

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 22 HONEYCOMBERS RECOMMENDS Drink

1925 ATTICA BARBER SHOP BY

MICROBREWERY Clarke Quay’s longstanding TIMBRE & RESTAURANT resident has been made over Despite its name, Barber and now boasts four diferent Shop by Timbre has nothing The food menu at this family- spaces to give that “360-degree to do with men’s grooming. run gastro-pub is hearty and clubbing experience”. Outside The thriving live music highly carnivorous, with mains the club are Bar Rose, Attica’s establishment focuses on like chicken kebabs and deep- Champagne and martini bar blues, soul, funk and jazz music fried skin, chargrilled beef for chilling by the Singapore by anchoring local bands like burgers, and pork belly slices. River. Inside, the frst foor Raw Earth, Lower String Delta, But what really takes the cake features chart-topping R&B and Chicken Shack Revival. in this family-run gastro-pub and top 40s, while the second Catch these established and is their home-brewed pilsners, level, connected via the alfresco upcoming musicians live on along with their wicked garden The Courtyard, puts stage from Thursday to cocktails and old world wines. out adrenaline-pumping Saturday nights. 369 Jalan Besar EDM beats. #01-03 The Arts House, www.the1925.com.sg #01-03 Clarke Quay, 1 Old Parliament Lane (65) 6294 9215 3A River Valley Road www.facebook.com/ www.attica.com.sg Farrer Park barbershopbytimbre (65) 6333 9973 (65) 6336 3386 Clarke Quay City Hall

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 22 23 HONEYCOMBERS RECOMMENDS HONEYCOMBERS RECOMMENDS Drink

MANHATTAN BAR STUDIO 1939 SUGARHALL

Regent Hotel’s swanky 89-seater Considered ‘The Private Studio’ Boasting over 50 types of cane bespoke cocktail spot ofers of hip institution Potato Head spirits, this is the place to go up a slice of 19th-century New Folk, Studio 1939 is modelled for your rum fx on the island. York. American mixologist after Australian artist David Opened by the good folk from Ricky Paiva helms the bar, as Bromley’s own working space. Jigger and Pony (which is just well as the world’s frst in-hotel Modern artworks curated by next door), the bar has cleverly rickhouse, a workshop featuring Bromley line the walls around categorised the rum-based over 100 American oak barrels the intimate reservation- cocktails into three sections – for experimentation. Manhattan only space. Feature cocktails, tropical cocktails, clear spirits also has a collection of unusual prepared with house-made and dark spirits – and rated on ingredients like wildcherry bark syrups and high-grade spirits a scale of ‘hungry’ to ‘full’ so that and shisandra berries. are personal favourites of Dres you can make your pick based on how full you are. Pretty cool. Level 2 Regent Hotel, 2nd foor, Masso and his team. 1 Cuscaden Road Level 3 Potato Head Folk, 102 Amoy Street www.facebook.com/ 36 www.sugarhall.sg manhattansg www.pttheadfolk.com (65) 6222 9102 (65) 6725 3377 (65) 6327 1939 Telok Ayer Orchard Outram Park

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 24 HOME TOWN Peter Wee

FEW KNOW KATONG - SINGAPORE’S VIBRANT EAST-SIDE NEIGHBOURHOOD - BETTER THAN OWNER OF KATONG ANTIQUE HOUSE, PETER WEE.

Katong is mini-Singapore; it has all these sites The biggest misconception people have about representing various cultures in one place. There the Peranakan culture is that they think we’re are Chinese and Indian temples, churches and either Malay or Chinese. In fact, our blood is 80 mosques, Eurasian restaurants, and Peranakan percent Chinese (old , not modern China) (Straits Chinese) dining spots. and 20 percent Malay.

Some of my favourite eats around Katong If you’re a tourist exploring Katong for the include mee (stir-fried prawn noodles) day, start your morning with chok (congee) for from Lorong 29 Fried breakfast, then in the afternoon you can explore (Food R Us Cofeeshop, 396 East Coast Road) and the Joo Chiat area for its architecture and many Peranakan kueh (bite-sized desserts) from Glory photo opportunities. Then, head over to the East Catering (139 East Coast Road). Coast area, or walk around to visit the temples and mosques. End your day with dinner at one I inherited this building (Katong Antique of Katong’s many zi char (home-style Chinese House) from my grandfather more than 40 years dishes) restaurants, or have something classic ago. It’s basically an antique shop, and everything like chicken rice or laksa (coconut milk-based on display has a story behind it. The people who curry broth) – these things can be found almost bring these artefacts in – special cabinets, kebayas anywhere in this area! (a traditional blouse-dress) – don’t necessarily know the history behind these things, so I make it Katong Antique House, 208 East Coast Road a point to research their origins. (65) 6345 8544 Eunos A 45-minute tour costs $15. Call ahead to book a slot.

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 25 #LIKEALOCAL Speak Singlish LAH Chope Kiasu A sufx used to place emphasis To reserve a place or call A fercely competitive spirit on the sentence or word before dibs on something “She queued for four hours to get “Don’t worry about it lah!” “Can you chope a seat for me?” the latest iPhone - so kiasu!” Alamak Can or not Shiok The Singlish equivalent of “Oh A way of asking if something is Fantastic, or to convey feelings my gosh”, or “Oh man” possible/can be achieved of satisfaction and pleasure “Alamak! Tickets for the concert “Dinner at 7? Can or not?” “This plate of chicken rice is are all sold out!” damn shiok.”

CALL US KIASU, BUT DON’T BLAME US IF YOU GET FUNNY LOOKS WHEN USING THESE PHRASES IN FRONT OF A SINGAPOREAN! Order your cofee

KOPI KOPI-SIU KOPI-SI KOPI-SI KOPI-O DAI KOSONG Cofee with Cofee with Cofee with sugar condensed milk Cofee with evaporated milk Cofee with and no milk condensed milk and sugar evaporated milk and less sugar and no sugar

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 26 SHOPPING Orchard Road Asia’s most famous shopping street, Orchard Road is a dream destination for those seeking serious retail therapy in the heart of the city. From high-end and 2 high street to designer and discount fnds, here’s a handy guide on where to shop. 3 ORCHARD RD 4

BIDEFORD RD 1

ORCHARD ORCHARD RD MRT 5 6

1. ION ORCHARD 3. PARAGON 5. ORCHARD The jewel of Orchard Road For your fx of luxury shopping, GATEWAY houses a dizzying array of stores hit the racks of high-end The newest kid on the like Sephora, Kate Spade labels like Prada, Salvatore Orchard block brims with Saturday, as well as world-class Ferragamo, Givenchy, and edgy homegrown stores like dining options such as Salt Grill children’s multi-label boutique, Superspace, and Actually. But And Sky Bar and TWG. Kids21 at Paragon. the star attraction is the brand 2 Orchard Turn 290 Orchard Road new fve-storey Crate And www.ionorchard.com www.paragon.com.sg Barrel fagship. (65) 6238 8228 (65) 6738 5535 277, 218 Orchard Road Orchard Orchard www.orchardgateway.sg (65) 6513 4633 2. TANGS 4. ROBINSONS Somerset There’s no missing the TANGS THE HEEREN building, an iconic structure The 157-year-old department- 6. ORCHARD modelled after Chinese palaces. store chain’s biggest outlet in CENTRAL The city’s oldest homegrown the city boasts fve foors of Discover the best of the local department store is where you’ll great fnds including brands fashion scene at Orchard fnd local labels such as such as The Kooples, Karen Central. Shop the likes IN GOOD COMPANY, Aijek, Walker, and See by Chloe. of SABRINAGOH, The Reckless and Carrie K. 260 Orchard Road Shop, and PACT. 310 Orchard Road www.robinsons.com.sg 181 Orchard Road www.tangs.com (65) 6735 8838 www.orchardcentral.com.sg (65) 6737 5500 Somerset (65) 6238 1051 Orchard Somerset

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 27 SHOPPING Souvenirs

BRING HOME A PIECE OF SINGAPORE WITH THESE FIVE MUST-HAVE LOCAL SOUVENIRS

1. BAK KWA 2. KAYA Smokey, favoursome and utterly moreish, bak Breakfast in Singapore isn’t complete without the kwa (barbecued meat) is a well-loved local snack delicious combination of toast and kaya, a jam that is especially popular during Chinese New made with coconut milk, eggs, and sugar. Year. Look out for household brand name Bee Available at all Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlets Cheng Hiang. (www.yakun.com.sg) island-wide, including Available at all Bee Cheng Hiang outlets #B2-LF3 Singapore Terminal 3, (www.beechenghiang.com.sg) island-wide 65 Airport Boulevard including #02-40 Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 5 3, Departure/Transit West, 80 Airport Boulevard 3 1 2 4

3. JAMAL KAZURA 4. TIGER BALM 5. TWG TEA AROMATICS Rub away aches, pains and The luxury tea company ofers An array of aromatic attars other ailments with this cure-all an impressive selection of over (Arabic perfume oils) from the herbal ointment, formulated by 800 teas, specially harvested Middle East, , and India Chinese herbalist Aw Chu Kin in from all around the world. Pick awaits you at this fragrance the 1870s. up a tin of Singapore Breakfast boutique, where you can also Available at all major pharmacies Tea to take home. get your own customised scent. island-wide including Watsons Available at all TWG Tea outlets Available at all Jamal Kazura (www.watsons.com.sg), #B2-23 (www.twgtea.com) island-wide Aromatics outlets Singapore Changi Airport including #026-102-01 Singapore (www.jamalkazura.com) Terminal 3, 65 Airport Boulevard Changi Airport Terminal 2, island-wide including 728 North (65) 6581 5950 Departure/Transit Lounge South Bridge Road (65) 6583 1837 (65) 6293 2350 Bugis

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 28 SHOPPING Buy local

NANA & BIRD

Set up by two fashion-loving best friends, this humble little store tucked in a quiet corner of the hip Tiong Bahru estate ofers charming little trinkets and edgy, up-to-date fashion pieces for the ladies. Look out for fab local labels Aijek and Yumumu. #01-65, Blk 59 Eng Hoon Street www.shop.nanaandbird.com (65) 9117 0430 Tiong Bahru great accessories! Building Block

perfect for Singapore souvenirs SUPERMAMA

A store, an artist residency studio, a gallery, a space for people to escape, this tranquil spot is inspired by local experience and has a loyal local patronage. It stocks an array of wittily and handsomely designed souvenirs as well as being a cool space just to hang out. 30A Seah Street www.supermama.sg Esplanade

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com 28 29 SHOPPING SHOPPING Buy local

INHABIT

Hands down, one of the coolest stores in town. This is the place to go for all the most sought-after labels, like Bassike, Sass & Bide, Ksubi and local accessory label Vice & Vanity. Price tags are slightly heftier here, but these are great investment pieces. #02-16 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Road www.facebook.com/inhabitsingapore (65) 6836 8441 Somerset for the trend setters

Vice & Vanity

Maker's Market THE GENERAL COMPANY

Find a well-curated selection of artisanal wares – accessories, jewellery, totes and backpacks, even tech accessories and the cutest cushion covers – made by young, emerging crafters and makers at this quaint store above cofee house and roaster Chye Seng Huat Hardware. 150A Tyrwhitt Road www.thegeneralco.sg (65) 8444 5589 Lavender

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 5

1 2

7

6 Best day ever

4

8

3

10 9 31 FAMILY FUN

1. INDOOR Science Centre Singapore is 8. FOOD & ART SKYDIVING a great spot to kickstart your child’s love of the clever “art”. Over at EatPlayLove Café, tuck into Thai-Western plates like Under the watchful eye of Science Centre Singapore, pineapple rice, mac and cheese, professionals, kids can skydive 15 Science Centre Road and tom yam soup (clear, spicy in the wind tunnel at iFly www.science.edu.sg Singapore with either The and sour soup) before letting (65) 6425 2500 Challenge (two skydives), the kids get their craft on in or The Adventure (four the corner with all sorts of art skydives) package. 5. STICK YOUR NOSE materials to play with. iFly Singapore, #01-01, IN A BOOK EatPlayLove Café, #01-07 Aliwal 43 Siloso Beach Walk Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street www.ifysingapore.com If you need a contrast to www.eatplaylove.com.sg the hustle and bustle, mind (65) 6571 0000 (65) 6444 6400 nourishment awaits at children’s HarbourFront Bugis bookstore Woods in the Books. 2. SOLVE A Woods in the Books, 9. SEE TOYS FROM 5D PUZZLE 3 Yong Siak Street THE PAST www.woodsinthebooks.sg Step into Trapped to play an (65) 6222 9980 With a world-class collection of vintage toys and childhood escape game. Choose from Tiong Bahru diferent rooms and fgure your memorabilia, this private way out as a family, as you solve 6. MINI GOLF Mint Museum of Toys has just riddles and puzzles. the right mix of play, history, Grab clubs and whack balls culture, and education. Trapped, 42 Kandahar Street on mini golf course, LilliPutt, www.trapped.sg a themed indoor golf venue, Mint Museum of Toys, (65) 6292 2177 where all 18 holes represent 26 Seah Street Bugis an iconic Singapore attraction. www.emint.com (65) 6339 0660 LilliPutt, #03-05 Block B Big 3. GET UP CLOSE Splash, 902 East Coast Parkway Esplanade WITH ANIMALS www.lilliputt.com 10. DO THE Perfect for those aged fve (65) 6348 9606 FLYING TRAPEZE to 12, the Singapore Zoo’s Kidzranger lets kids get up Join the circus for a day – well, close and personal with the 7. TRAMPOLINE sort of – with Sentosa’s Flying park’s adorable animals. Leave the kids bouncing of Trapeze. This attraction is Singapore Zoo, 80 Mandai the walls, literally, at AMPED, a great way for the kids to Lake Road made up of 5,000 square feet learn to conquer their fear www.zoo.com.sg of interconnected trampolines of heights and improve their (65) 6269 3411 which provide masses of space concentration skills. Choa Chu Kang + for amateur . Flying Trapeze, Siloso Beach, connecting bus service 927 AMPED Trampoline Park, 2/F, 10 Siloso Walk, Sentosa 369 Tanjong Katong Road www.sentosa.com.sg 4. EXPLORE SCIENCE www.ampedsingapore.com (65) 6371 1064 Featuring countless interactive (65) 8669 4894 HarbourFront exhibits in 14 galleries, the Dakota

Had a good time? Share it with us at #YourSingapore 32 MAPS & APPS Mrt map

Practical apps BURPPLE ICHANGI A restaurant and food app Get information on fight times, that guides you to places departure gates as well as recommended by locals. shopping and dining.

TRIP ADVISOR MY TRANSPORT Read millions of travel reviews Check bus services and routes, on the best places to eat, sleep, trafc news, MRT, fares, and more shop and play. – all at your fngertips.

GST REFUNDS To enjoy the 7 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) refunds paid on your purchases under the Tourist Tax Refund Scheme, you must make at least S$100 worth of purchases from participating outlets. Such shops will display a ‘Tax Refund’ logo or a Global Blue ‘Tax Free Shopping’ logo. On your day of departure from Singapore Changi Airport, proceed to the Tax Refund Counter and present your purchases together with the tax claim forms for customs inspection. Take note that Customs will not process the tax claim forms if the goods are not presented for inspection. For more information, please log on to the Tourist Refund Scheme page on the Singapore Customs website at www.customs.gov.sg. eTRS TAX FREE Skip the queues and fle your GST claims at the eTRS self-help kiosk at Changi Airport before you fy! All you need to do is shop at places that display the eTRS sign and use one credit card as a Token for tagging your purchases. Tourists departing on international cruises from Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore and the International Passenger Terminal at HarbourFront Centre may also qualify for tax refund. Log on to www.iras.gov.sg for more information.

Want more? Visit www.YourSingapore.com

SINGAPORE INSIDER JAN · FEB · MAR

www.thehoneycombers.com