Your Singapore Little Black Book

O H

R O

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H L

B A N

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D J M

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L A

G Park A

A L

iver Valley A

R H

O B

Orchard Road

A h P

D I

T S

E N T O S

G A T E W A Y

M G D

U E

R N T N

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G T E

E M

S R A

K N

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V R R

n R

E E O

L O N H

C A

E A

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T E RO SENG KIM

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Pulau Bran D

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D I

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Explore Asia from Singapore Around Town

Thailand

Indonesia

M Introduction

Cambodi

alaysia

Lao

s Singapor Let’s be honest: if Singapore were a high school student

Vietnam

Around Town it would be the nerd of the classroom (the non-chewing-

e Brune gum-kind of course). This high achiever clearly wants to Art & Culture

i Jurong Island Jurong be the best and first at everything: home to some of the Jurong world’s swankiest hotels; host of the world’s first F1 night race; home to the world’s biggest observation wheel. Lim Chu Kang Chu Lim And that floating crystal pavilion at Marina Bay Sands? It belongs to Mr Louis Vuitton and yes, it’s the first of its

Art & Culture kind. This little red dot may have been on your radar, but

Reserv we’ve uncovered the Singapore you don’t know – the one that

Nature Shopping

Buki Tima speaks four official languages, likes to eat roti prata at

Clementi

t h

e 1am and dessert at 2am before catching a flick at 3am. The only way to truly figure out this enigmatic city is

Singapore Shopping Queenstown to discover and experience it progressively. So scratch Woodland beneath the surface, take it all in, and you just might

Harbourfront

Clarke Quay Clarke

Sembawan

Mandai Chinatow realise there’s far more chic to this geek.

Newton

s Spas Orchar

Sentos This Little Black Book belongs to... g

n Spas

City

Ang Mo Ki Mo Ang

Marina

Bishan

Little Indi Little

Bay Bay

Geylan Print & Digital Publishing Pty Ltd Print & Digital Publishing Pty Ltd This book has been produced by Print & Digital (ABN 50 125 441 812) under the o Publishing Pty Ltd’s Custom Guide Division authority and in collaboration with Time Food East Coast & Joo Chia Joo & Coast East on behalf of the Singapore Tourism Board. g

Marine Parade Marine Out International Limited London UK.

Malaysia a For all enquiries please contact: Time Out ® is the registered trademark of Time Out Tel + 61 2 8239 5990 Group Limited, London UK. The right to use the Throughout the book, these little red Food dots denote a Online au.timeout.com trademark, name and logo of “Time Out” are

Guide Editor Laura Venuto Bilsen Road, Geebung, QLD 4034. www.craftinprint. Bars & Nightlife 0 Art Director Phil Bunting com.au. Reproduction in whole or in part is not Contributors Vanessa Mulquiney, Clare Brundle, Terence permitted without the written permission of the Goh, Sandra Leong, Mathew Webb, Matthew Lee Pulau Ubin Pulau publisher and Time Out Group Limited. The

Time Out favourite publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for Executive errors or omissions contained in this publication, t Managing Director Justin Etheridge however caused. The opinions and views contained [email protected] in this publication are not necessarily the views of Commercial Director Michael Rodrigues the publishers.

6km

Changi [email protected]

Bars & Nightlife & Bars Info is correct at time of printing but may be subject to changes. For the latest info on Singapore visit YourSingapore.com. Hotels $ in the book = S$ (Singapore Dollars).

Hotels

Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 3

Singapore in context Word up Around Town Size doesn’t matter: this tiny city-state has big ambitions Got Singlish lah! Around Town A brief guide to Singapore’s “Ah beng” own pidgin English... A male bogan. Art & Culture “Ah lian” Female form of Ah Beng. “Aiyah/Ayioh” Chinese equivalent of ‘Oh no!’or

Art & Culture ‘Oh dear!’

“Ang moh” Shopping Literally means ‘red hair’. A commonly used term for Caucasians.

Shopping “Aunty/Uncle” Pronounced ‘Anteee’ or ‘Uncaaal’, It’s not surprising that Singapore is the these are used as a generic address for modern-day Babel, with four ‘official’ lan- middle aged or elderly woman/men. Re- guages – English, Chinese, Tamil, and ferring to older Singaporeans in this way

Malay – a host of unofficial languages, will give an Ang Moh a lot of credibilty. Spas and Singapore’s unique gift to the Eng-

Spas lish-speaking world, Singlish – a pidgin “Kopitiam” Singapore skyline English that draws heavily from Chinese Literally means ‘coffee shop’. grammar translated back to English, spo- No, Singapore is not part of China; yes the commercial import of chewing gum is ken with the cadences and the speed of “Kiasu” banned (although the chewing of it isn’t); and yes – it is very, very clean. Malay, and peppered with Hokkien, Malay Literally means to be afraid of losing/ Nicknames are one way of getting a grip on modern Singapore: Lion City, Garden City, and some Tamil expressions. missing out on something. It’s a defining

New Asia, the Little Red Dot and Fine City – there have been so many that they start to Singlish adds ‘lah’ to the end of sen- characteriestic of many Singaporeans Food cancel one another out. Singapore, is after all, an inadvertent nation that has made itself tences or exclamations for emphasis, who will rush for early-bird event tickets,

Food up as it has gone along. It proudly proclaims its Asianness and routinely tops world such as telling an impatient person to opening-night tables at new restaurants or globalisation indexes with pride. This high achiever has a chic side too. It’s home to some ‘Wait, lah!’. There are other versions exploit any other opportunity to get ahead. of the world’s swankiest hotels, along with an increasing number of boutique hotels and of this – lor, meh and mah being favou- bars. And then there’s the mega-malls – yes, they’re all that they’re cracked up to be. rites. Sentences are often abbreviated “Lah/Leh” Bars & Nightlife The people are intelligent, well-dressed, and not so modest. They’re predominantly until all that’s left is the verb. In answer Tagged at the end of a sentence as an Chinese, but there are significant numbers of Malays and Indians plus a foreign ele- to a query about driving to the airport, a exclamation except in questions. ment: about 18% are non-residents, and another 7% permanent residents. With this taxi driver might reply ‘can’ or ‘cannot’. cultural mix, it’s only natural that the food choices are plentiful. As the different races Other examples include ‘want’ and ‘don’t “Sotong” intermingled, they exchanged recipes, cherry-picked techniques and ingredients and want’ which might sound like ‘wan’ and Forgetful, or not knowing what’s going on. adapted their cuisines. Singapore is highly urbanised but its nickname ‘the Garden City’ ‘donwan’, as the ‘t’ will be dropped. is one to be proud of. Outside the city centre are nature reserves and pockets of rainfor- English expressions have also taken “Spoil market”

Bars & Nightlife & Bars est, and even some farmland. on new meanings in Singlish. Spoilt Someone who does his work so well that So look beyond the Singapore clichés about chewing gum and cleanliness: there’s means broken, as in ‘this camera is he makes everyone else look bad.

more to this little red dot than such simplifications allow. The only way to find out is to spoilt’, and ‘to keep’ means to ‘put away’ Hotels leave the confines of Changi Airport and explore. Because if the airport is this good, thus ‘keep the clothes’ would mean ‘put “Ta pau“ can you imagine what’s beyond? the clothes away’. Take away. Hotels

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Around Town June-July Singapore River Festival Singapore Follow the Singapore River from Boat Quay to Robertson Quay as it bursts Events into life with bumboat parades, live music and aerial shows nightly.

Around Town Calendar

Art & Culture July Singapore Food Festival A fortnight-long string of foodie events January-February Chinese New Year Festivities Chingay Parade held across town. You won’t find gourmet This is the biggest festival of the year. chefs, though; top street food vendors Singapore Food Festival Activities take place all over town but are the focus. are centred on Chinatown with street- lighting ceremonies, the spectacular Art & Culture August-Sepember Chingay parade, lion dance competition Mid-Autumn Festival and magnificent fireworks.

This Chinese Festival in honour of the Shopping full moon is celebrated with colourful paper lanterns and street lights. The March-May food of the festival, mooncakes, Singapore Biennale Contemporary art takes over the city as abound in Chinatown. Shopping international and local artists present Hari Raya Puasa exciting and challenging new works For this celebration of the across a number of venues. end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan, the streets of Kampong Singapore F1 GP Singapore Biennale Glam come alive with roadside Late April-early May bazaars and traditional Malay food. Spas World Gourmet Summit Cook and dine with the culinary Spas masters at this summit spread across Late September the city’s top restaurants and bars. Singapore F1 Grand Prix Expect high-speed action on the Marina Mid May Bay F1 street circuit, with its spectacular city backdrop. Asia Fashion Exchange

Be among the first to spot the hottest Food new local labels and ogle world-class Late October collections by international designers at Food Deepavali this celebration of fashion. Little India’s Serangoon Road is artfully Singapore Arts Festival illuminated for this Hindu festival Deepavali

symbolising the triumph of good over evil Bars & Nightlife Mid May-June Great Singapore Sale and light over darkness. Singapore Arts Festival Running for more than 30 years, this festival celebrates the music, dance, Mid November-December theatre and visual arts of Singapore’s Christmas in the Tropics diverse community. Orchard Road and Marina Bay are dressed in Yuletide finery from mid-November, marking the beginning of Christmas May-July celebrations. Bars & Nightlife & Bars Great Singapore Sale Need we say more? Shopping,

the national obsession (after December/January Hotels eating and talking about eating) Marina Bay New Year Countdown goes into overdrive. The hottest countdown in town.

Hotels Marina Bay New Year Countdown 6 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 7

6 Time Out Singapore Little Black Book Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 7

Your Singapore Must-Do List Around Town

No trip to Singapore is complete without... Around Town Art & Culture Art & Culture Shopping Shopping Spas Spas

Clarke Quay

Find a unique trea- Feel the beat of sure in Haji Lane Clarke and Boat Quay Food SkyPark

Food Budget bohemia thrives in Haji Lane, a Down by the riverside of the Colonial sliver of an alley sandwiched between District is where much of Singapore Arab Street and Bali Lane. Mini- have their fun, with a number of

boutiques mix with Middle Eastern the most popular bars, pubs and Bars & Nightlife Get sky high Walk the talk shisha cafes and design houses. Pick nightclubs perched on the edge of

up some monochrome accessories at the river along Clarke and Boat Quay. Salad (55 Haji Ln, +65 6299 5808) Discover a little Latin flavour at Cuba See the whole of Singapore from Put on your walking shoes and join an Original Singapore Walk by Journeys, and for kitsch appeal, don’t miss Pluck Libre (01–13 Clarke Quay, +65 6338 the SkyPark of Marina Bay Sands. (31/33 Haji Ln, +65 6396 4048). 8982) or rub shoulders with the At 200 metres above ground, the as guides talk you through Singapore’s lesser-known history. From atmospheric For an even more exciting fashion beautiful people at Attica (3a Clarke boat-shaped SkyPark took three experience you’ll need to leave ground Quay, +65 6333 9973). If your dance months to lift up to the 57th storey night walks through the old red-light district of Chinatown to fascinating war level and make your way to the second moves leave a little to be desired, you Bars & Nightlife & Bars where it now sits prettily atop three trails, expert storytellers shine a light floor of the shop houses. Soon Lee is can always get your thrills beyond the hotel towers and is home to the into the nooks and crannies of the city one such must-visit shop offering an bars. Try the G-MAX Reverse Bungee famous infinity rooftop pool. 10 even locals don’t know about, bringing its eclectic range of one-of-a-kind clothes, or GX5 Extreme Swing instead – no Hotels Bayfront Ave, Marina Bay. (+65 6688 fascinating history and culture to life. (+65 jewellery, hats and accessories (56 Haji rhythm required. (3E River Valley Road 8868 www.marinabaysands.com). 6325 1631 www.journeys.com.sg). Ln +65 6297 0198). +65 6338 1146). Hotels

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Around Town Food Republic at Vivocity Around Town Art & Culture Art & Culture Shopping Shopping Night Safari

Give your feet a fish pedicure Join Singapore’s culture club Waku Ghin Spas Don’t inflict your stinky feet on some poor pedicurist. Instead, let the fish take Catch a performance by international Spas care of them. A shoal of industrious little touring companies like the Royal Turkish fish wait in a pool to nibble away Shakespeare Company or local talents dead skin and leave your toes fresh and like the Singapore Symphony Orchestra exfoliated. Best avoided by those with at the iconic landmark and world-class ticklish feet! Fish reflexology is $35 for artistic venue, The Esplanade. 20 minutes in the pool and 20 minutes 1 Esplanade Dr. (+65 6828 8377 foot reflexology. Kenko Reflexology and www.esplanade.com). Food Fish Spa 313 Orchard Rd. (+65 6887 Food 0303 www.kenko.com.sg). Tetsuya Wakuda

See how the

locals live Bars & Nightlife

Go wild at the Buy lunch with your Night Safari Venture beyond the hub of the city spare change… to visit the heartlands and suburban neighbourhoods where locals reside, …then blow the Through the use of special lighting, the Start with a dirt-cheap yet delicious budget for dinner night zoo allows you to observe what shop and socialise. Toa Payoh lunch from one of Singapore’s many 900 nocturnal animals get up to after features a bustling local mall as hawker centres. Think delicious roast Splurge on a lavish and memorable dusk. The 45-minute narrated tram well as the grand Buddhist temple, pork or fluffy pancakes at Tiong dinner at Tetsuya’s Waku Ghin, ride is the best way to see the animals Lian Shan Shuang Lin monastery Bahru Hawker Centre (Cnr Lim Liak which offers multi-faceted dining from the safety of your seat. After the (www.shuanglin.sg). Katong and Joo St & Seng Poh Rd) for around $3 (no at its quirkiest. Take in the opulent Bars & Nightlife & Bars trip, brave the dark walking trails to get Chiat are also worth a visit for their kidding) or fabulous seafood at Lau Pa surroundings as you work your way a closer look at smaller animals such melting pot of cultures – from Malay Sat (Cnr Boon Tat St & Robinson Rd). through the incredible 10-course as flying squirrels and dangling bats. to Indian to Chinese to Peranakan – Or if you are in a shopping mall, check degustation menu, which starts at Hotels 80 Mandai Lake Rd. (+65 6269 3411 making them brilliant areas to visit for out the food courts such as Vivocity’s $325. 10 Beyfont Ave, Casino Lvl 2, www.nightsafari.com.sg). sampling the local food stalls alone. Food Republic (1 Harbour Front Walk). Marina Bay Sands. (+65 6688 8507). Hotels

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10 Time Out Singapore Little Black Book Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 11

Around Town & Sightseeing Top 5... Around Town Make the most of Singapore’s best attractions Green trails Around Town Singapore River Art & Culture

Jurong Bird Park

Jurong Bird Park Shopping Go here to... have breakfast with Henderson Waves the birds This top-notch attraction contains 8,000 1 Labrador Park & birds from 600 species. There’s a multi- Shopping Art & Culture Henderson Waves tude of exotic and endangered South-East Labrador Park provides the perfect Asian species, alongside pelicans, pen- coastal setting for a scenic skirmish with guins, flamingoes, ibises, swans, toucans, wartime history. While Henderson Waves, birds of paradise – and more. Key attrac- Singapore’s highest pedestrian bridge

tions include the largest walk-in aviary in spans Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Spas the world, where you’ll find a 30m (98ft) Hill, Hort Park and Kent Ridge Park.

Spas man-made waterfall and 1,500 birds from Africa and South America flying freely 2 Bukit Timah Reserve within the huge compound. Make new There are four walking trails to enjoy Journey’s ‘Secrets Pulau Ubin feathered friends like Big John, the park’s but more interesting are the unpaved of the Red Lantern’ oldest cockatoo, and Merlin, a yellow- trails: Route 3 (green) follows a winding Walking Tour naped Amazon who tells fortunes at the forest path, past caves used by Japa- Go here to... turn back time interactive Early Bird Breakfast Show nese soldiers in World War II. Food A reminder of old Singapore, the boo- on daily from 8.30am. 2 Jurong Hill Go here to... learn about Food merang-shaped island is covered in trees (+65 6265 0022 www.birdpark.com.sg). 3 Sungei Buloh Wetlands Chinatown’s dodgy past (the remnants of rubber plantations) and This wetland reserve of mangrove Singapore may resemble Disneyland but dotted with beaches and characterful old Singapore Bumboat swamps, ponds and secondary forest once upon a time (circa 1887) it was the Malay houses. It contains the country’s Cruise is home to 140 species of birds; early Bars & Nightlife ultimate Sin City and for good reason: there last kampongs where villagers still morning is the best time for birdwatching. were more brothels, opium and gambling count on wells for water and generators Go here to... take in the sights of the Singapore River dens than you could poke an incense stick at. for electricity. The best way to explore 4 MacRitchie Reservoir Take a Friday evening walking tour through is by bike, which cost $3–$8 to rent. See the city from the water on a no-frills Singapore’s oldest and most popular the once-notorious red-light district in Less tiring (but less fun) is a taxi van – 30-minute journey aboard a bumboat. nature park is a haven for joggers, fami- Chinatown and learn why the area was once they’re unmetered, so negotiate the fare You can alight at any of the nine jetties lies and weekend strollers; occasional known as Bu Ye Tian – the Place of Night- beforehand. There are three cycling trails along the Singapore River, including free concerts are held on Sundays.

Bars & Nightlife & Bars less Days. Prices start at $30 (adult) and (on paved and dirt roads), which lead the Esplanade, the Fullerton, Riverside $15 (child). Child aged 6 years and below past old fruit and rubber plantations, Point, Boat Quay and Grand Copthorne 5 Gardens by the Bay

joins for free. D’Centennial Building, 100 mangrove swamps, water-filled quarry Waterfront Hotel. Boats run daily See Singapore’s tropical diversity Hotels Lorong 23 Geylang, #07–01. (+65 6325 pits and old wooden houses. (+65 6542 (9.30am–10.30pm). (+65 6336 6111/ first-hand, and keep an eye out for the 1631 www.journeys.com.sg). 4102 www.nparks.gov.sg). 19 www.rivercruise.com.sg). 55m-tall Super Trees in Marina Bay! Hotels

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Sentosa Island Around Town

In what used to be a small fishing village now stands Singapore’s most exciting playground. Sentosa Island is Around Town jam-packed with a myriad of activities, from theme parks to a mega-resort and much more... Art & Culture Shopping Shopping Art & Culture

MegaZip Adventure Park Spas

Universal Studios Singapore Resorts World Sentosa Luge Spas This part toboggan, part go-cart ride down a choice of two 650-metre- iFly Universal Studios Resorts World long tracks, involving hairpin bends and Singapore Sentosa speedy straight sections, is a thrilling, Young VICs (Very Important Children) This pleasure seeker’s mecca of non-stop adrenaline-fuelled adventure for kids and iFly reckon this is where the real fun is entertainment, shopping and dining hosts kids-at-heart. The tracks are even open Ever fancied the idea of at night for downhill dare-devilling in the and mum and dad just might agree: everything from a Vegas-style casino to skydiving but not the risks that come Food spanning 20 hectares, Universal six unique world-class hotels, to Universal dark. At the end of the track you can hop along with hurtling yourself out of a Studios is big enough to tire your little Studios itself (see left). Resorts World is on the free SkyRide across the treetops plane with nothing but a parachute? Food mites out. There are 24 attractions also set to house the soon-to-open Marine back to the start. Imbiah Lookout, iFly, the world’s largest wind tunnel across seven Hollywood blockbuster- World where you can get up close and beside Beach station. (+65 6274 0472 gives you the chance to experience www.hg.sg/sentosa/luge).

themed zones including Jurassic personal with the ocean’s most fascinating the jelly-cheeked, wind-in-your-hair Bars & Nightlife Park Rapids Adventure, Waterworld, creatures, and history buffs can also adrenaline-rush of having just jumped Battlestar Galactica, and our favourite, explore the history of the Maritime Silk Surfing Safari out of a plane… without actually having Revenge of the Mummy. The indoor Route at the Maritime Xperiential Museum. Put your surfing skills to the to. Siloso Beachfront, Beside Beach rollercoaster ghost train travels through 8 Sentosa Gateway. (+65 6577 8899 ultimate test at Wave House Sentosa. Station. (www.iflysingapore.com). a pitch-dark room and has enough www.rwsentosa.com). Grab a boogie board and ride the rush surprises to scare the bejesus out of of water on the Double FlowRider, or try surfing the more challenging Flow Barrel, Fort Siloso you – flying (fake, of course) mummies MegaZip Adventure If you visit only one World War and insects, water splashes (real), and an endless six-foot wave. 36 Siloso II-related site, make it this one. The Park Beach Walk. (+65 6274 0472 www. Bars & Nightlife & Bars a live flame that bursts suddenly on top Singapore’s longest and steepest story of Japan’s victory is punchily of your head. Grab the front seat and flying fox ride will send you soaring at wavehousesentosa.com). Otherwise, if told, alongside displays on the local leave the designer sandals home. 1 you just fancy a stroll along the sand, a civilian experience during the Japanese breathtaking speeds across the 450m Hotels Day Adult Pass $66, 1 Day Child Pass course. Best on an empty stomach. relaxing paddle in a kayak or even beach occupation. Siloso Point, Near $48. 39 Artillery Ave, Sentosa. (+65 Imbiah Hill Rd, Sentosa. (+65 6884 volleyball, Sentosa has 3.2km of white, Underwater World, Sentosa Island. (+65 6577 8888 www.rwsentosa.com). 5602 megazip.com.sg). sandy beaches to fit the bill. 1800 736 8672 www.fortsiloso.com). Hotels

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Top 5... Around Town Viewpoints

Around Town 1 Singapore Flyer

Marina Bay’s giant, 42-storey, 165m ob- Art & Culture servation wheel is as touristy as it gets but you can’t beat the 360-degree views of the city. Try the Singapore Food Trail while you’re there. 30 Raffles Ave. (+65 6333 3311 www.singaporeflyer.com.sg).

Singapore Flyer 2 Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Bollywood Veggies Tarot card reading At 200 metres above ground, the Sky- Shopping park is large enough to hold 4.5 A380 jumbo jets, and offers unparalleled city views from the Observation Deck. $20 adult, $14 child. 10 Bayfront Shopping Art & Culture Alternative Singapore Ave, Marina Bay. (+65 6688 8868 Scratch beneath the surface to discover another side of Singapore www.marinabaysands.com).

3 Cook up a storm Upskill New Asia Bar Love Singapore food? Then why not There are hundreds of short courses It’s located on Level 71 of the Equinox Spas learn how to cook it so you can continue on offer in Singapore, so why not take a new Complex, so you can expect a stunning

Spas to enjoy it when you return home? Learn skill home in your suitcase along with the cityscape as your backdrop while you the secrets of some of Singapore’s top rest of your souvenirs – perhaps Chinese gyrate to top 40 tunes. Swissôtel the chefs and cookbook authors at Shermay’s paper cutting, Tai Chi or qi gong meditation? Stamford, Lvl 71, Equinox Complex, Cooking School. (Chip Bee Gardens, Marina Bay Sands SkyPark 2 Stamford Rd. (+65 6837 3322 Holland Village, Blk 43 Jalan Merah Saga, www.swissotel.com). Take a pilgrimage +65 6479 8442 www.shermay.com). Kusu Island (which means Tortoise Island in Chinese) lies six kilometres off the 4 Lookout near Reflections Food southern end of Singapore. A tranquil isle Escape to the country at Bukit Chandu Food If you think Singapore is all about dotted with trees, lagoons, shrines and a Take in tranquil views of the verdant the fast-paced bustle of the city, think Taoist temple, it is quiet most of the year, Kent Ridge Park, a marked constrast again. D’Kranji Farm Resort is Singapore’s but during the ninth lunar month, which from the inner-city skyscrapers and first and only farm stay, where you can falls between September and November, skyline you’ll see from the SkyPark Bars & Nightlife soak up the countryside in luxury villas thousands of people flock to the island to and the Singapore Flyer. 31K Pepys overlooking working fruit and vegetable pray for health, wealth and good fortune. Rd.(www.nhb.gov.sg/www/rbc.html). plantations. Explore the farms by day There is also a sanctuary where hundreds of and enjoy the fruits of its labour on your tortoises are housed. (+65 6534 9339). 5 Jewel Cable Car Ride dinner plate that evening at the retreat’s at Mount Faber restaurant. 10 Neo Tiew Ln 2, Kranji. Enjoy views of the HarbourFront precinct Find your fortune (+65 6862 9717 www.dkranji.com.sg). Walk around Tekka Market in and southern islands on this 12-minute

Bars & Nightlife & Bars While you’re in the area, it would be rude Little India, and more likely than not cable car ride from Mount Faber to Im- not to pop in to Bollywood Veggies and you’ll come across a weathered Indian biah lookout on Sentosa Island. Take the

say hello to Mrs Ivy Singh-Lim, owner and man with his faithful parrot, both ready to ride at night when the whole city lights Hotels self-proclaimed ‘gentle-warrior farmer’. tell the fortune of any passerby, for $5 per up. The Jewel Box Cablecar Station, 100 Neo Tiew Rd, Kranji. (+65 6898 5001 reading. Nearr the Tekka Market steps, 109 Mount Faber Rd. (+65 6377 9638 Jewel Cable Car

Hotels www.bollywoodveggies.com). Serangoon Rd. www.mountfaber.com.sg).

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Art & Culture Around Town

Thanks to Singapore’s diverse population there is a whole melting pot of cultures to experience within one compact

Around Town city. Think of it as Instant Asia... Art & Culture

8Q SAM

8Q is the Singapore Art Museum’s newest contemporary art extension. Housed in the

Art & Culture former Catholic High School, this multidisciplinary space is set to

become a place for homegrown Shopping artists and the public to engage in a lively art exchange. The National Heritage Board recently renovated and converted the Shopping classrooms in the four-storey building into six galleries to showcase contemporary installation works, video and photogra-

phy installation, performance art Spas and sound art. 8 Queen St. (+65

Spas National Museum of Singapore 6332 3222 www.singaporeartmu- seum.sg). Esplanade Theatres on the Bay National Museum of Esplanade Theatres on Tanjong Pagar Distripark Chinatown Heritage Singapore the Bay Centre

After a mega-bucks ($118 million) refurbishment Few buildings have created such a For a whirlwind contemporary art fix, head Food and rebranding, the Singapore History Museum Housed within three restored stir as this one. Opened in 2002, the to Singapore’s foremost hub of emerging,

Food reopened as the National Museum of Singapore, the shop houses, these 15 galleries eye-catching bayfront complex has forward-thinking art galleries, all housed in largest museum on the island. The museum com- feature the rich history and been dubbed ‘the durians’ by locals a single converted warehouse space. Start at prises two main galleries: the Singapore History cultural heritage of Chinatown, because of its resemblance to the spiky Australian Indigenous art specialist ReDot Gallery, which traces the history of Singapore from including the story of Chinese tropical fruit. Built at a cost of $600 Fine Art Gallery, then head to South-East Bars & Nightlife its beginnings in the 14th century to the present immigrants who came to find million, the Esplanade is Singapore’s Asian fine art photography specialist L2 day, and the Singapore Living Galleries, which work in Singapore during the premier performing arts centre and Space to check out their latest showcase of focus on four lifestyle themes – food, fashion, film colonial days. Highlights include often draws comparisons with the Chinese artists from New York and Shang- and photography. The main gallery is jam-packed rooms replicating coolies’ living Sydney Opera House. Its crown jewels hai. Also merging Eastern and Western art with objects and film footage, accompanied by no quarters and clan associations’ are the 1,600-seat Concert Hall and the is the increasingly prolific Fortune Cookie less than seven hours of audio narrative, explana- activity halls prominent in those 2,000-seat Theatre. There is also a black Projects, known for bringing such contem- tions, dramatisations and soundscapes. It’s worth a times. Tour guides are on hand box Theatre Studio (seating 220) and a porary art grandees as Julian Schnabel and

Bars & Nightlife & Bars visit just for the building, an imposing neoclas- and paint a vivid picture and, in Recital Studio (245). Programming is an Daze to Singapore. Valentine Willie Fine sical structure, complemented by modern glass true Singapore style, the gift shop eclectic mix, veering from Western to Arts are devout champions of cutting-edge,

additions. Look out for films shown on the outdoor is a good source of souvenirs. Eastern flavours and including festivals provocative South-East Asian modern art, Hotels screen. 93 Stamford Rd. (+65 6332 5642 48 Pagoda St. (+65 6325 2878 and touring productions. 1 Esplanade Dr. famous for their latest regional finds.Blk 39 www.nationalmuseum.sg). www.chinatownheritage.com.sg). (+65 6828 8222 www.esplanade.com). Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Rd. Hotels

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Top 5... Around Town Temples, mosques &

Around Town churches Art & Culture Art & Culture Shopping Shopping

Changi War Museum & Chapel Thian Hock Keng Temple This is the most famous of Singapore’s Spas World War II sites, even though the

Spas museum is housed in a purpose-built 1 Thian Hock Keng Temple Peranakan Museum venue, and the chapel is a reconstruction Newly arrived immigrants came here to burn incense in thanks to Ma Cho Po, (the original was shipped to Australia a Taoist deity and protector of seafarers. 158 Telok Ayer St. (+65 6423 4616 Peranakan Museum after the war, and is found in Canberra www.thianhockkeng.com.sg). today). The main interest lies in the stories of industry and ingenuity within 2 Sri Mariamman Temple The name Peranakan describes both a rich the POW camp. The civilian and military Food Oddly enough, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore is smack in the middle of culture and a unique ethnic group, arising internees essentially established an

Food Chinatown and the site of Theemidhi, a fire-walking ceremony held a week before from the meeting of Chinese and Malay alternative, if somewhat surreal, society, Deepavali. 244 South Bridge Rd. (+65 6223 4064 www.heb.gov.sg). peoples. This ten-gallery exhibition venue catering for everything from entertain- houses the world’s largest and best over- ment to the manufacture of thousands 3 Sultan Mosque view of Peranakan life over three floors. of everyday items. The chapel, located Bars & Nightlife The largest unofficial centre of worship for local Muslims, the Sultan Mosque Explore documents and artefacts – jewel- in the courtyard of the museum, encour- has a dome with a base made up of many glass bottles. 3 Muscat St. lery, silver, furniture, textiles and crockery ages quiet reflection. It also houses copies (+65 6293 4405 www.sultanmosque.org.sg). predominate – brought to life through of the kitschy but affecting Changi interactive and multimedia stations. The murals, recreated by the original artist, 4 St Andrew’s Cathedral introductory gallery defines the Peranakan Stanley Warren, after a widely publicised Guided tours of this impressive Gothic edifice – built by Indian convict labourers and culture of Singapore, Malacca and Penang international effort to find him; the pre- consecrated in 1862 – highlight distinctive features such as the Coventry Cross. in broad terms; the second level is devoted ponderance of blue and white is because

Bars & Nightlife & Bars 11 St Andrew’s Rd. (+65 6337 6104 www.livingstreams.org.sg). to the Peranakan wedding and its associ- of his reliance on billiard cue chalk. The ated rituals and accessories; and on the $8 audio guide is comprehensive and

5 Wak Hai Cheng Bio Temple third level explore religion, public life and complements the displays well. 1000 Up- Hotels Also known as the Calm Sea Temple, the temple was built in 1826 by Teochew food. 39 Armenian St. (+65 6332 7591 per Changi Rd North. (+65 6214 2451 fishermen and you may smell it before you see it: the forecourt is dominated www.peranakanmuseum.sg). www.changimuseum.com).

Hotels by incense coils hung on wires. 30b Phillip St.

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Shopping My Singapore... Around Town You’ve died and gone to retail heaven... Camilla Franks Around Town

My Singapore in 3 words is... Art & Culture Vibrant, ever-changing, fabulous! Singapore style is... Premium, with a colourful resort feel. I love nothing more than losing the heels, picking my most colourful kaftan and headscarf (for the humidity) and going exploring. The best thing about shopping in Art & Culture Singapore is... That it combines the premium designer stores of Paris, with

awe-inspiring shopping malls of Dubai Shopping and the quirky up-and-coming street designers of Tokyo – it’s a shopper’s paradise right on our doorstep. The shop I can’t walk past without Shopping buying something... Herve Leger in ION Australian designer Camilla Franks Orchard – his dresses are to die for! Best bar to flaunt your new wardrobe... Lantern Bar on top of the Fullerton Bay Hotel. It’s a poolside oasis complete with a gorgeous white fabric tent Spas that overlooks Marina Bay – and the Spas ION Orchard cocktails are bliss. If you buy one thing in Singapore it should be... You can’t just buy one! ION Art Level, 5,3002 ft of art. Close But if you had to, sunglasses or other ION Orchard by and worth a look is Japanese-owned goodies at the beautiful La Perla store Takashimaya (391 Orchard Rd, +65 in The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

6738 1111 www.takashimaya-sin.com) My favourite thing I’ve bought in Food Best for... the ultimate mega- housed inside Ngee Ann City, which car- Singapore is… Beautiful hand-painted mall experience with stunning

Food tiles from Arab Street. They inspired ries all the chi-chi fashion labels (Cartier, Singapore Weekender Bag by Camilla architecture Gucci, Fendi). 2 Orchard Turn. (+65 the design of my Camilla Singapore It claims to be the ‘centre of gravity’ in 6238 8228 www.ionorchard.com). Weekender Bag and always take me the Singapore retail scene – and with jaw- back to remind me of the buzzing and Bars & Nightlife dropping frontage, cutting-edge design, unique atmosphere of the Arab Quarter. Mustafa Centre Best-kept shopping secret... Get off the and more than 300 stores, it makes beaten track. Shopping in Singapore a good case. Apart from the obvious Best for... just about everything is not just restricted to the premium reason for coming here – shopping – be brands and shopping malls that the city sure to check out the extra bells and A Singapore institution, Mustafa’s is open is renowned for, but also offers unique whistles. There’s ION Sky, a double-storey round the clock, offering 75,0002 shopping hotspots you simply must observation deck on the top two floors; ft of bargains, not to mention a hotel, café explore down the backstreets and in

Bars & Nightlife & Bars a media ‘membrane’ – a 117m ‘skin’ that and supermarket. It’s a treasure trove of the cultural districts. Head to Haji Lane wraps round the complex that broadcasts discount shopping that carries everything in the Arab Quarter for beautiful fabrics

telecasts of events and shows; ION2, the from skincare and electronics to sports and cute knick knacks, or Chinatown Hotels largest sheltered area on Orchard Road, wear and luggage. 145 Syed Alwi Rd. for its chic small boutiques. that plays host to national parties; and (+65 62955855 www.mustafa.com.sg). www.camilla.com.au Tiles on Arab St Hotels

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Around Town My top 5... Branding exercise Shopping Look out for these big-name

Around Town secrets brands in Singapore, because

you may not find them at home Art & Culture Fashion writer and girl-about- town, Grace Tay, 1 H&M offers her top This Swedish powerhouse is at the five Singapore forefront of affordable chic, with The Shoppes shopping secrets guest designers including Lanvin,

Art & Culture Viktor & Rolf and Stella McCartney 1 lending their haute vision to fast The Little Drom Store The Shoppes at Marina fashion. Orchard Building, 1 Grange For local art, books, kitsch, and Bay Sands Shopping childhood memories. Don’t forget to Rd. (www.hm.com). perve on the heavenly cakes from the Best for... Designer, darling co-share patisserie K ki. Pop round 2 Topshop/Topman the corner to Stevie General Store Hailed as one of the premier luxury shop- The UK high-street super brand is Shopping (93 Club St, +65 6536 8590 www. ping experiences on the planet, Marina no doubt one of the most wished-for steviegeneralstore.com) for edgy Bay Sands is the glittering home to the stores (by those unfortunate enough fashion and more vintage curios. to the who’s who of the designer world to live in a city without one), thanks 7 Ann Siang Hill. (+65 6225-5541 – from Hermès to Cartier, Gucci to Fendi, to its savvy fashion collections at purse-friendly prices. ION Orchard, 2 www.thelittledromstore.tumblr.com). Yves Saint Laurent to Manolo Blahnik, Uniqlo Spas Orchard Turn, with additional outlets. and for the boys, there’s even a Ferrari (+65 6509 8602, www.topshop. Spas 2 The Tong Tong shop. But the high-end shops aren’t the com). Fashion-conscious males also 5 Uniqlo Friendship Store only impressive thing about this mall – if get a look-in with Topshop’s offshoot Japan’s popular casual clothing brand For delightfully kooky Chinese- you find you’re burning a hole in your Topman, which offers cutting-edge offers functional staples that combine inspired fashion and accessories. soles (as well as your pocket) you can men’s fashion that won’t break the classic cuts with on-trend styles, #01–04/05 Shaw Towers. (+65 6396 always put your feet up with a glamorous, bank. Isetan Scotts, 1 Scott Rd. designed to be mixed-and-matched 3887 www.tongtong.sg). luxurious boat ride along the canals (+65 6733 1111 www.topman.com). into your own unique style. 313@ Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd. (+65 6834 which winds its way through the shops. Food 4073 www.uniqlo.com/sg). 3 City Plaza 10 Bayfront Ave. (+65 6688 8868 www. 3 Marc by Marc Jacobs

Food For lots of fashion finds here on the marinabaysands.com/shopping). The king of fashion (one of the few cheap; if you have time and patience designers to make the Time 100 6 Warehouse to trawl, that is. Geylang Rd. (+65 Influential People list) brings his Another UK high-street favourite, 6747 4728). Tangs Orchard supremely wearable styles to the Warehouse’s fashion leans towards the Bars & Nightlife streets of Singapore. Isetan, sleek and sexy, ideal for 20-somethings 350 Orchard Rd. (+65 6304 4 Boo-tiful who know the latest trends by heart. For fine furniture for kids. Even if you Best for... department store shopping 1393 www.marcjacobs.com). ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. (+65 6884 don’t have a kid, you’ll want one of After 76 years, the brainchild of local re- 6035 www.warehouse.co.uk). everything. 10 Winstedt Rd, #01–11. tail pioneer CK Tang remains a shopping 4 Miss Selfridge (+65 6737 0868 www.boo-tiful.com). paradise. The original department store is Fun and quirky, Miss Selfridge is 7 Pull and Bear a nostalgic place for many Singaporeans one of the UK’s leading high street For the casual-chic shopper, this

Bars & Nightlife & Bars 5 Beauty Emporium and is still fit to boast the Tangs slogan brands stocking everything from party Spanish retailer will fit the bill with I love the visual merchandising and ‘All the Best Under One Roof’. Don’t frocks to casual wear, accessories, its cool but laidback urban offerings. swimwear and lingerie. Paragon, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, it’s a way-cool shopping mart for self- neglect to take a shopping break at the Hotels pampering! 8D Dempsey Rd. #02–01 rooftop Island Café. 310 Orchard Rd. (+65 290 Orchard Rd. (+65 6836 4867 391 Orchard Rd. (+65 6735 9445 www.missselfridge.com). (+65 6475 7833). 6737 5500 www.tangs.com). www.pullbear.com). Hotels

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Louis Vuitton Around Town My Singapore... Universal Studios Best for... wow factor Antonia Kidman Visit the super-chic designer brand’s ‘island’ store – a glass-and-steel Crystal Around Town Pavilion that floats on the water, smack

bang on Marina Bay. We think it Art & Culture definitely compares with the Takashi Murakami-themed store in Tokyo. Marina Bay Sands. (www.marinabaysands.com). Far East Plaza Art & Culture

Sim Lim Square Shopping

Best for... electronics (don’t forget to claim your GST on departure) Antonia Kidman Though rough around the edges, and Shopping full of sour-faced, hard-nosed shopkeep- My Singapore in 3 words is… ers, this old mall offers some of the best Fragrant, green and safe. deals in town. Crammed with hundreds Singapore with kids is… So easy. of tiny shops, it’s a good bet for hard-

There is always so much to do. From to-find computer and electronic parts, Spas Universal Studios and the Aquarium at but also crowded and frustrating. The Sentosa to the Night Safari Zoo. The Spas higher you go, the lower the prices are Science Centre is great and so is the for accessories and blank DVDs and Peranakan Museum. I love walking CDs. Haggling is compulsory; make sure around Fort Canning or the Evolution Louis Vuitton you shop around for the best price. 1 Garden in the Botanical Gardens. Cycling along the East Coast is fun and Rochor Canal Rd. (+65 6338 3859 www. at night I love to hop on a River Boat simlimsquare.com.sg). Food and then grab some dinner at one of Bugis Street the waterside restaurants. Far East Plaza

Food Tekka Market, Little India Best view in Singapore… Skypark at Best for... suburban shopping the top of Marina Bay Sands. Best place to escape the crowds… Formerly Singapore’s red-light district, Best for... cool one-offs MacRitchie Reservoir. Bugis has been cleaned up and redevel- When it comes to street fashion, this Bars & Nightlife My favourite kind of Sunday in oped. Straits-Chinese shophouses were grubby five-level mall just off Orchard Singapore involves… Breakfast at glassed in to form part of this mall, Road is the spot, offering everything ‘Boomarang’ Café for some Aussie fare which contains plenty of teen-friendly from common Korean imports to rare then moving into a relaxed afternoon shops. Bugis Junction’s outdoor cult items such as $2,000 sneakers. either at home or with friends. fountain is where you will often see Basically, the more decrepit the shop, Best place to soak up the culture in drenched, screaming kids having a the cooler it is. Subculture types flock Singapore… Tekka Market, Little India. Best place for family fun… Wild whale of a time. As the water comes here to stock up on clothes, scoff cheap Bars & Nightlife & Bars Wild Wet! from the floor and in various shapes but delicious food and get tattooed and Favourite place to visit from and patterns, guessing where the next pierced – Far East Plaza has the largest Singapore… Phuket – it’s close, has spout will spurt from is half the fun. concentration of tattoo parlours in Hotels crystal clear water and I’m also a big 200 Victoria St. (+65 6557 6557 Singapore. 14 Scotts Rd. (www.fareast- fan of Thai food. Wild Wild Wet www.bugisjunction-mall.com.sg). plaza.com). Hotels

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Shop: beyond the malls Around Town Around Town Art & Culture

Mervin Quek Shang Antique & Craft

Dempsey Road & Holland Village

Art & Culture Occupying the former British army barracks, Dempsey Road is a great Chinatown place for lovers of antiques, notably Shopping The brightly coloured conservation shop- objets d’arts from Indo-China. It’s houses in the enclave formed by Ann Siang across from the Botanic Gardens, Road, Erskine Road and Club Street are but you’ll need a cab to get into the home to an increasing number of hip-to-the- densely forested enclave. Shang Shopping beat boutiques, offering expertly curated Antique & Craft (#01–04/05 16 ranges of cult fashion, chic furniture and Dempsey Rd, +65 6388 8838 www. homeware, and quirky gifts. The baroque shangantique.com.sg) sells antiques Arab St Scarlet Hotel forms an imposing landmark dating from the seventh century, as

here, setting the tone for shops like Egg3 well as fine reproductions. Holland Spas Find antiques and quirky boutiques on the streets of Singapore... (33 Erskine Rd, +65 6536 6977), with its Village is a much-loved shopping

Spas glossy homeware and graphic T-shirts, and enclave, especially with expats, but Asylum (22 Ann Siang Rd, +65 6324 2289 the tight-knit community of Chip Arab Quarter & Tiong Bahru www.theasylum.com.sg). The latter is one Bee Gardens, across from Holland Haji Lane of Singapore’s top design companies, with Village proper, is way hipper. Jalan Budget bohemia thrives in Haji Lane, a Tiong Bahru is one of the oldest an office in the basement and a concept Merah Saga is the main drag. Food sliver of an alley sandwiched between housing estates in Singapore, which shop on ground level filled with vintage Enid is a theme: in addition to cafés,

Arab Street and Bali Lane. Mini-boutiques may not instantly scream ‘shopping Blyton books, art publications and clothing restaurants and gourmet butchers, Food mix with Middle Eastern shisha cafes and destination’ but you’d be mistaken if by too-cool-for-school local and international you’ll find organic foodstore Bunalun,

Food design houses. Hotspots include Pluck you didn’t hotfoot it there quick-smart designers. baked goods specialist Phoon Huat (No. 31/33, +65 6396 4048) for kitschy for an off-the-grid retail experience. (#01–48 Block 44, +65 6471 5250 cushions, jewellery, clothing, vintage It was once most famous for its bird- www.phoonhuat.com) and Shermay’s fabrics and wallpaper, and a tiny ice-cream singing corner, but now it’s a must-visit Cooking School (#03–64 Block 43, Bars & Nightlife parlour; and Salad (No. 25/27, +65 6299 destination for bookworms, thanks +65 6479 8442 www.shermay.com). 5808), which specialises in black-and-white to BooksActually, a comforting yet goods – from T-shirts to home accessories. chic bookstore owned by local couple Fashionistas flock to Hoity Toity (No. 53A, Kenny and Karen (No 9 Yong Siak +65 6396 6902) for pretty dresses from St, +65 6222 9195). Once you’ve Australian designers. Indie music shop purchased a treasured tome, head Straits Records can be found a block over straight to 40 Hands Café, a perfectly

Bars & Nightlife & Bars in Bali Lane (22 Bali Ln, +65 9341 1572). squishy bar that serves excellent While you’re in the neighbourhood, browse coffee, and is considered among the

the proliferation of ethnic shops along league of cafés that are driving Singa- Hotels

nearby Bussorah Street, the pedestrianised pore’s quiet coffee revolution Lester strip in front of the Sultan Mosque. (78 Yong Siak St, +65 6225 8545). Ann Siang Rd

Hotels

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Around Town Around Town Art & Culture Art & Culture

Charles & Keith Shopping Purple Gold TravelPAC

Shopping everything in the shop – and it’s not Singapore souvenirs 5 RISIS What better way to remember your all clothes, you can accessorise your It would be rude to leave without picking up at least a Singapore stay than with a version of the new outfit with printed canvas bags, few of these Singapore-designed products... delicate national flower that will never wilt or some seriously cute costume (nor cause you any hassle at customs)? jewellery, too. Meritus Mandarin Orchard, 333 Orchard Rd. (+65 Spas 1 3 The jewellery and accessories brand Charles & Keith Shoes CYC The Custom Shop RISIS dips real orchids in 24-carat-gold 6337 0992 ilovehansel.com).

Spas Every Singaporean woman knows Charles & Singapore’s oldest and most established Keith. After all, what self-respecting female custom shirt maker boasts an impressive and turns them into necklaces, brooches and earrings. Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny wouldn’t want to become well acquainted clientele of famous personalities and 8 Purple Gold with two blokes dedicated to supplying them celebrities. Established in 1935 by Rd, with additional outlets. (+65 6475 5014, www.risis.com). You’ve no doubt heard of white gold, with sexy sandals and stilettos that are so Chiang Yick Ching, this fashion institution yellow gold and rose gold, but purple reasonably priced they can afford a new lets you choose everything from your gold? This Singaporean innovation pair to match every outfit? ION Orchard, 2 materials to buttons, collar size and cuff 6 Woods & Woods is created by mixing 80 per cent Food Orchard Turn. (+65 6238 1840) and The style to create your perfect shirt. Raffles Add a hot young local designer to gold with 20 per cent other precious Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. (+65 6688 Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd. (+65 metals. The chemical reaction

Food your wardrobe. Not literally of course, 7035 www.charleskeith.com). 6336 3556, www.cyccustomshop.com). but head to award-winning rising star creates the purple colour, and it Jonathan Seow’s boutique Woods & has been crafted into all manner of

Woods and bag yourself some of his jewellery from bracelets, to earrings Bars & Nightlife 2 TWG Tea Company 4 Mother & Child Project and necklaces, which now adorn the From the magnificent rotating tea wall to Here you can pick up a local, unconventional creations, which feature unusual fabrics and quirky colour likes of Sir Elton John. For jeweller the delightful patisserie counter serving handmade product and feel good locations, visit purplegold.com. the prettiest sweet treats, as well every about your purchase, not only because combinations. You’ll turn heads wherever tea accessory you can imagine, Singapore’s it makes a cute souvenir but also you go. Raffles City Shopping Centre, first and only high-end luxury tea salon is a because a percentage of the profit 252 North Bridge Rd. (+65 6338 6775). 9 TravelPAC must-stop shop for tea buffs. It boasts goes towards helping disadvantaged Get your geek on at this one-stop a range of more than 800 single-estate women. The project provides them with shop for all things gadgety. The sleek teas from around the world but don’t home-based work so they can become 7 Hansel

Bars & Nightlife & Bars Named after her beloved Jack Russel designs lend a sexy edge to the tech leave without trying one of their unique economically self-sufficient. You can terrier, Jo Soh’s Hansel label has treats. From a psychedelic mouse to tea blends – opt for the Singapore buy Mother & Child products at a range bold iPhone cases and the best in

something of a cult following for her Hotels Breakfast Blend or the Singapore Paris of locations in Singapore. To find out ladylike and whimsical designs that are earphone design. For retail outlets Blend. ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. more visit www.motherandchildproject. cut to perfection. You’ll be hard-pressed visit www.travelpac.com.sg or phone (+65 6535 1837 www.twgtea.com). com or call +65 6341 735. to restrain yourself from wanting to buy +65 6295 7208. Hotels

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comfortable, equipped with oversized Around Town Spas massage beds that allow the therapists to clamber on to inflict some serious Soothe body and mind at one of Singapore’s pampering palaces deep-tissue bodywork. The popular Royal Experience ($130) is a two-hour treatment with a body scrub, fresh herbal Around Town steam bath and a full-body massage.

Pain never felt this good. #03–02 King’s Art & Culture Arcade, 559 Bukit Timah Rd. (+65 6469 7622 www.benjaphan.com).

Bliss Spa

Bliss Spa Go here for... pampering SATC-style Art & Culture Bliss, NYC’s cult spa made famous by

the Sex and the City gals, has finally Shopping Aramsa Garden Spa arrived in Singapore. Setting up shop within the Sephora ION Orchard store, Go here for... an alfresco massage the Bliss set-up features a nail lounge, in the park four recliners for on-the-spot mini- Shopping Aramsa’s unusual location in the middle treatments (try the oxygen blasts and of suburban Bishan Park means that it seaweed masks) and four cosy (we think is surrounded by nature and feels like a they mean small) ‘capsule’ rooms for million miles from the concrete jungle of such treatments as the triple-oxygen

the city centre. Individual spa suites are energising mask, or the hot milk and Spas linked via resort-style covered walkways almond pedicure. Services aside, it’s the

Spas and some also boast sunken bathtubs in cute extras that set Bliss apart – a spa private gardens. Keep it simple and book buffet with brownies, olives, crackers the 150-minute Exotic Coconut Treat and cheese, and if you book any two ($395 per couple) for maximum lovin’. Af- treatments in a 30-minute time slot, or ter you’ve been rubbed down with warm any three within 45 minutes, you’ll be dis- coconut oil, get your rough bits exfoliated tracted with a classic movie. #01–05/06

and knots released with a huna huna or ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn. (+65 Food bamboo massage. Bishan Park II, 1382 6509 3511 www.blissworld.com).

Food Spa Botanica Ang Mo Kio Ave 1. (+65 6456 6556 www.aramsaspas.com). Beauty Emporium Spa Botanica Bars & Nightlife Benjaphan Thai Herbal Go here for... everything beauty Spa Go here for... an all-day spa session in a garden setting Pick up a massage, facial, manicure or Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Spa Botanica occupies a lush, Go here for... the most authentic Brazilian wax at this Dempsey Road tropical compound on the island of Sentosa. For a close-to-nature experience, there Thai massage outside of Bangkok one-stop shop for all your beauty and nu- are private, Balinese-style outdoor pavilions, plus a man-made waterfall (all the better Tucked away in the unlikely King’s tritional needs. You’ll get a handpicked to pummel knotted backs with), mud pool, labyrinth garden and lounge pool to flop Arcade, this spa is a secret among the selection of tunes, flowers and books, down beside, before and after your treatment. The sprawling spa menu runs the gamut well-heeled residents of Bukit Timah. It’s plus an exclusive beauty range, from

Bars & Nightlife & Bars from Tibetan oil and clay massages to anti-ageing facials featuring 24-carat gold. And rare to find authentic yoga-style Thai Aunt Ilcsi, Books Actually, Browhaus, you don’t even need to get dressed and leave should you get hungry: just pull up a chair massage (termed Royal Thai Massage La Compagnie De Provence, Love Da

at the adjoining Garden restaurant – a light-and-airy eatery serving a range of organic here) outside Thailand, let alone one of Music and more. House, Block 8D Lvl 2, Hotels juices, salads and light dishes for the health-conscious. 2 Bukit Manis Rd, Sentosa. the quality found at unpretentious Ben- Dempsey Rd. (+65 6475 7375, (+65 6371 1318 www.spabotanica.com). japhan. Treatment rooms are airy and www.dempseyhouse.com). Hotels

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PS Café – Palais Iggy’s Around Town Food Go here for... casual brunch or Go here for... a five-star degustation bistro-style dining With more than 40,000 eateries on Named Time Out Singapore Best Indepen- In-mall dining is about as romantic dent Restaurant 2010, Iggy’s is fast becoming Around Town this tiny island, Singapore takes as a Saturday afternoon in IKEA, one of island’s most famous (and best)

its chow very seriously. Here are but even though the latest PS Café is restaurants. Reservations are still made way Art & Culture stationed in the Palais Renaissance, in advance to secure a spot, and its bold menu a few Time Out favorites... this third, demure outlet surprises shifts with the seasons, but a recent favourite with its charm. The space – think co- is char-grilled sea bass with truffle gnocchi lonial conservatory with rattan seat- and rosemary oil. The Japanese white peach White Rabbit ing – is divided into three sections: a with Champagne jelly, sorbet and elderflower bar/patisserie where the famous PS foam dessert makes this modern European

Art & Culture cakes are displayed; a large, dimly lit eatery well worth the splurge. The Hilton Il Lido section favoured by hip media types; Hotel, 581 Orchard Rd. (+65 6732 2234

and the pièce de résistance, a white- www.iggys.com.sg). II Lido Shopping tiled terrace with colossal windows that open onto a view of the verdant Thai Embassy grounds (though Go here for... home-style Italian food blinds shoot down at the first sign of As expected, the sea views don’t disappoint Shopping rain). Try the café’s famed Chocolate and the curved balcony offers prime sunset- Crunch Doorstep Cake ($15.90) and watching. Beneath the restaurant’s centre- onion-heavy PS Steak Burger ($28). piece – a Marc Wanders chandelier – guests Palais Renaissance #02–09A, 390 dine on chef Michele Pavanello’s superb

Orchard Rd. (+65 9834 8232 www. home-made pasta with creamy sea urchins Spas pscafe.sg). and squid-ink tortellini stuffed with Atlantic

Spas cod. For dessert, don’t go past the tiramisu The White Rabbit Long Beach – it’s touted as the best in town. Sentosa Golf Club, 27 Bukit Manis Rd, Sentosa. (+65 6866 1977 www.il-lido.com). Go here for... dining in a converted church Go here for... for chilli/ Iggy’s We all remember the White Rabbit with the pocket black pepper crab Muthu’s Curry watch from Alice in Wonderland, who leads Alice Long Beach has been around for as Tippling Club Food down a hole into a phantasmic world. Back to long as anyone can remember and, Go here for... fishhead curry Food reality – and Harding Chapel, where Singapore’s judging from the weekend crowds own White Rabbit has emerged from its ‘hole’. of multi-generational families, it Go here for... progressive cuisine Among the scores of Indian restaurants This church was abandoned for 15 years but now will remain for a long time to come. by Aussie boys in Little India, Muthu’s is easily the most invites patrons into a restaurant and bar that, with Don’t be distracted by the noisy Some chefs make the mistake of labelling dressed up. The menu is small (try the Bars & Nightlife its high ceilings and generously proportioned din- patrons; just concentrate on the huge molecular gastronomy a cuisine, rather than creamy butter chicken and the crispy ing and drinking areas, has the mise-en-scène of Sri Lankan crabs (known for their the culinary toolset that it actually is; hence, onion-flecked brinjal) with a very good a mead hall. There’s more than 40,000 square feet sweet flesh) bathed in a thick, tangy underneath all their faffing with foams, vegetarian section, and easy on the hip of lush greenery surrounding the chapel. Located gravy made from ginger, chilli and there’s nothing but hot air. Fortunately, the pocket (mains are $8–$20). The star at the back of the church is the bar area, which turmeric (chilli crab) or the equally duo behind the Tippling Club, chef Ryan Clift attraction is the award-winning fishhead opens to a grassy knoll where a family of animal delicious black pepper crab doused and award-winning mixologist Matthew Bax, curry: a huge bowl of tart, pineapple- sculptures made of wire and grass occupies the in crushed peppercorns. Mop it all is not mistaken. The humour and sensibility scented sauce bathing a fleshy, whole

Bars & Nightlife & Bars backyard. Diners return for the desserts: the un- up with crispy, fried mantou bread. throughout their delightful, thought-provoking fish head. The serving island – hot trays expected crunch of toasted almonds in the crème #01–04 East Coast Seafood Centre, menu – a champagne-and-kümmel cocktail of luridly coloured curries and a hulking

brûlée is, like everything about the White Rabbit, 1202 East Coast Parkway. (+65 is called F*** the Sub Prime – are proof tandoor – offers a takeaway option. Hotels an unmitigated delight. 39C Harding Rd. (+65 6448 3636 www.longbeachseafood. of this. 8D Dempsey Rd. (+65 6475 2217 #01–01 138 Race Course Rd. (+65 6392 6473 9965 www.thewhiterabbit.com.sg). com.sg). www.tipplingclub.com). 1722 www.muthuscurry.com). Hotels

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Flutes at the Fort Around Town Singapore must-eats! Go here for... old-world romance with new-world food Prices may be steep, but there really is no- Around Town where else quite like Flutes for a romantic meal

à deux or a special occasion. Located in an old Art & Culture black-and-white colonial home tucked away among the frangipani of Fort Canning’s slopes, the modern Australian menu features such hits as a salad of warm smoked kangaroo followed by roasted Australian lamb rack with lotus chips and garlic mash. Any complaints?

Art & Culture The waiters can be a little too quick to top up the wine glass, which can make the wooden

steps down to the street a little hard to navi- Shopping Red Star gate. Fort Canning Park, 21 Lewin Tce. (+65 6338 8770 www.flutesatthefort.com.sg). Kopi, Kaya Toast & Eggs Red Star 1 Shopping Singapore Chicken Rice A simple yet beloved dish of succulent Katong Laksa Go here for... authentic yum cha poached chicken paired with red chilli The gaudy interiors – complete with a sauce and rice steamed with ginger, 3 Kaya Toast & Eggs dinky stage – have not changed in decades, garlic and chicken stock. Despite the fact This local breakfast favourite is a little

and that’s the charm of the Red Star. The that it is sometimes called Hainanese like Singaporean soldiers: delicious Spas food, too, has not been updated so it’s all a chicken rice, the dish doesn’t actually coconut egg jam that is spread on

Spas little less refined than, say, Crystal Jade, but exist in Hainan and is considered a toast, which you then dunk into the no one cares. Most of the regulars come for true Singaporean classic. On the other accompanying soft-boiled eggs. Try it the weekend dim sum feast ($10–$15 per hand, Singapore Fried Noodles, despite at... Chin Mei Chin Confectionery, 204 head) where trolleys of siew mai, braised the geographic reference in the name, East Coast Rd. (+65 6345 0419). chicken feet, char siew tarts, roast pork and isn’t a Singaporean dish, and try as you century egg congee are wheeled around by might, you won’t find it served here. It 4 Go beyond chilli crab loud, scowling aunties with hearts of gold. was actually created by Asian diaspora It’s difficult to go past the sweet, sour Food Come early on Sundays (around 10.30am) all the way in Australia. and spicy chilli crab, but you’d be

Food else be prepared to wait and risk the food Try it at... Maxwell Rd Hawker Centre, missing out if you didn’t also sample the going cold by then. #07–23, Blk 54 Chin TWG Tea Cnr South Bridge Rd & Maxwell Rd. black pepper crab, butter crab or crab Swee Rd. (+65 6532 5266). bee hoon. Try it at... Sin Huat Eating 2 Coffee and tea House, Geyland Rd. (+65 6744 9755). Bars & Nightlife TWG Tea Salon and Boutique Singapore style The lingo needed to order a coffee or 5 Do battle in the tea in Singapore is akin to that of an Katong Laksa Wars! Go here for... the best tea blends espresso bar in Rome. Straight kopi or Several laksa joints along the East Coast Such a pretty set-up: a little bejewelled nook framed in warm timber, its walls of hand- teh contains both sugar and condensed Road lay claim to being home of the painted tins and glass jars filled with just about every tea imaginable, as well as plenty milk. If this is too sweet for you, order original Katong laksa – a coconut curry you couldn’t have conceived. The man behind it all is the former master tea blender at it kosong (without sugar) or o kosong soup laced with fish cake, cockles and

Bars & Nightlife & Bars celebrated Parisian salon Mariage Frères, so its credentials are impeccable. The teas – (straight and bitter). A kopicinno on the daun kesum leaves. The territorial tussle more than 200 varieties and blends – are the main draw (try the Singapore Breakfast other hand, is exactly what it sounds has become known as the Katong Laksa

Blend from $8 a pot) but the sweets are tempting too. The macaroons in a variety of tea like. Try it at... Ah Tengs Bakery, Wars. We recommend 328 Katong Laksa Hotels flavours are delicately wrought, while the cakes are effortlessly refined.The Shoppes at Raffles Hotel Complex, 1 Beach Rd. – but you be the judge. Try it at... 328 Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave. (+65 6535 1837 www.twgtea.com). (+65 6412 1816). Katong Laksa, 328 East Coast Rd. Hotels

36 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 37

Hawker food Don’t forget Top 5... Around Town For a uniquely Singaporean food experience, head to a hawker... to try... Hawker

clamped down on street food Char kway teow

Around Town centres (mainly for hygiene reasons) in Thin loops of local

the early 1980s that they became fettuccine are piled into a Art & Culture ubiquitous, each neighbourhood wok with cockles and bean having its own designated centre. sprouts, soy sauce, cubes of There are around 120 hawker fried lard, garlic and Chinese sausage. The centres in Singapore, each shelter- hot wok imparts a fragrant smokiness to ing anywhere from 50 to 100-plus the dish – an essential ingredient. food stalls, often family-run and

Art & Culture each specialising in a few dishes, Roti prata drinks or desserts. All stalls get a Part of the thrill of Maxwell Road cleanliness rating (A to D) posted eating roti – a Malaysian Shopping on the front of their stall. dish that’s ubiquitous in Communal sharing of the Singapore – is watching 1 Lau Pa Sat tables is the norm. To reserve or the Indian chef make it. A glob of oily Packed at lunchtime with suits from ‘chope’ a space, locals sometimes dough is smacked onto a steel surface and neighbouring offices, this is one of Shopping The food is fantastic and made to order; prices are place a packet of tissues on a seat transformed into a translucent sheet and the fancier hawker centres. Try the rock-bottom (a dish plus drink costs about $5); and while their ordering their food. To folded. Fried on griddle, the crisp pancake grilled skate and seafood at stall 43. they’re noisy, vibrant and bustling warrens of local order, join a queue (the longer the is served with curry sauce. Cnr Boon Tat St & Robinson Rd. life – an antidote to the sanitised, manicured side line, the better the food), wait for

of Singapore. You’ll find a treasure trove of taste the cook’s assistant to bark at you Grilled stingray 2 Zion Riverside Food Spas sensations, gathering under one roof an entire mi- – courtesy is not a strong point Who knew that Centre

Spas crocosm of cuisines – Chinese, Malay, Peranakan, here – then tell him what you want stingray was this delicious? Slurp sweet Asian desserts at Moham- Indian, Eurasian. and the number of your table. Pay Basted with hot sambal med Sultan Rd Cheng Tng (stall 32) or Hawker centres have been around since the when your food arrives: usually it (chilli and garlic paste), rojak – the spicy mixed vegetable and late 1950s, often attached to a wet market selling will be brought to you, but some the fish is lightly grilled over a hot flame. fruit salad – at Clementi Brothers Rojak fresh produce. But it wasn’t until the government stalls are self-service. The result? Snowy-white flesh that’s firm, (stall 21). Cnr Zion Rd & Ganges Ave. moist and moreish. 3 Tiong Bahru Food Bak Kut Teh Highlights include roast pork from Tiong How to order and pay at a hawker centre Food While the direct Bahru Roasted Pig Specialist (stall 02- 1 Find your table before you order. Communal sharing of the tables translation of bak kut teh 38) and fluffy pancakes from Mian Jian is the norm here so there’ll be no ‘table for two’. You could (meat bone tea!) leaves a bit Kueh, a few stalls down at No. 34. have someone from the group sit at the table while others go to to be desired, this Chinese Cnr Lim Liak St & Seng Poh Rd. Bars & Nightlife order. Take note of your table number before you head to a food soup is far more delicious than it sounds, stall to order. consisting of meaty pork ribs simmered in 4 Chomp Chomp 2 Do a scout of the stalls to see what takes your fancy as far as a delicious broth infused with star anise, Arguably one of Singapore’s finest is, menu and price – but by all means order from more than one stall. cinnamon, cloves, fennel and garlic. sadly, only accessible by car, but jump It’s not a bad idea to check out the cleanliness rating on the in a cab and the tastiest grilled stingray Oyster omelette awaits (stall 1). 20 Kensington Park Rd. front of each stall when making your final selection. 3 To place your order, join a queue (the longer the queue, the bet- This most decadent Bars & Nightlife & Bars ter the food) and wait for the cook’s assistant to call you. of omelettes is cooked in 5 Maxwell Road 4 If the stall bears the sign ‘self-service’ it means you need to a super-hot pan with good Be quick if you want Tian Tian Hain- take you plate to your table yourself, other stalls will ask for lard, creating a beautifully anese Chicken Rice (stall 10) at one Hotels the number of your table and deliver the food to you. crisp outside layer that’s filled with creamy of the oldest centres. Cnr South Bridge 5 If it is being delivered, you pay when your food arrives. egg and juicy oysters. Rd & Maxwell Rd. Hotels

38 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 39

Bars & Nightlife Around Town

Here are our picks for when you want to get out on the town... Around Town Privé Art & Culture

Go here for... glam by the sea On an island not so far away from Privé Singapore sits the rather slick Privé, where in-the-know locals love to escape in the evening to lounge about on one of the

Art & Culture bar’s large sofas. A short cab ride across a sleek, trendy bridge on the ground

floor of Keppel Island’s marina, Privé’s Shopping waterfront bar is stunning in the simplic- ity of its décor, and how it incorporates the sights and sparkling lights of the boat park and nearby Caribbean-style condo Shopping into its open, breezy atmosphere. Drinks are well made and you come back to the main island (yes, Singapore) feeling like you’ve been away somewhere else com- Klee

pletely. 2 Keppel Bay Vista. (+65 6776 Spas 0777 www.prive.com.sg). Klee Boomarang Bistro

Spas & Bar Timbre Go here for... cocktails in a cool Go here for... trivia and to cheer Timbre@Old School neighbourhood setting on your team The cocktail is king at this speciality bar No, that’s not a typo. Boomarang is Go here for... chilling out to live that says no to bubbly, wine and beer, the correct way to spell the name of music and a big yes to mixed drinks – especially this relaxed, family-friendly riverside Food This is the latest addition to the Timbre those made with freshly squeezed fruit hang out featuring open-air seating,

Food franchise, known for its laidback vibe and juices and premium alcohol. Housed on a picnic-style wooden tables and low-back showcase of local bands. While the other hillside in what used to be a caretaker’s chairs. A popular haunt of local Aussie two outlets at the Substation (45 Arme- lodge, this 30-seater boasts works by local expats, this is the place to sink a few nian St, +65 6338 8030) and the Arts artists hanging on the walls and a baby cold ones while watching live coverage Bars & Nightlife House (1 Old Parliament Ln, +65 6336 grand piano (complete with singer) parked of the AFL Cup Final, Melbourne Cup or 3386), feature livelier music, Timbre@ in a corner. Try the kiwi martini: it isn’t any other major event in the Australian Old School is home to acoustic sounds. Fit- the cheapest cocktail in town, but when or international sporting calendar, The tingly, the venue keeps a chilled ambience. you consider they juice a whole kiwi into bar’s trivia nights on Tuesday at 7.30pm Value-for-money happy-hour promotions – a martini glass and muddle it up with a are also worth a look-in with the winning two Erdinger pints and an order of buffalo generous serving of Smirnoff Black or table receiving their bar tab on the house wings for $28++, or one bottle of house Belvedere Vodka, you feel less disgruntled (tabs have gone as high as $1,700). Get

Bars & Nightlife & Bars wine and a pizza for $38++ – make this a about forking out the cash. Deceptively yourself along if you know the first great hangout for casual evening drinks, fresh-tasting, you can easily forget how Grammy Award-winning song to include

spent listening to fantastic vocals. #1–05, many you’ve been through – ’til it’s time to the f-word in its lyrics. #01–15 The Hotels Tasting note: The symbol ‘++’ 11 Mt Sophia Rd. (+65 6338 0800 www. stand up. #01–04, 5B Portsdown Rd. Quayside, 60 Robertson Quay. (+65 means you’ll pay an extra timbre.com.sg). (+65 6479 3997). 6738 1077 www.boomarang.com.sg). service charge (10%) plus Hotels GST (7%) on top of a bill. 40 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 41

Top 5... Around Town Rooftop bars Around Town Art & Culture Art & Culture Shopping

Loof Ku Dé Ta Shopping

1 Ku Dé Ta Bali’s world-famous beachfront Zouk hotspot recently arrived in Singapore Spas and instantly overthrew the establish-

Spas ment by taking the prime location on Villa Bali Zouk top of the 57-story Marina Bay Sands. One helluva space, one helluva place. Sky Park, Marina Bay Sands North Go here for... casual drinking in a Go here for... dancing the night away Tower, 1 Bayfront Ave. (+65 6688 garden setting to the best DJs 7688 kudeta.com.sg).

For a taste of the magical Indonesian isle Three clubs in one, this iconic music venue Lantern Food while in Singapore, head to this address is where anything and everything happens. 2 Lantern Food and cross the wooden bridge into a luxuri- Electro bad-girl Peaches put the ‘sin’ in This new hotel’s combo of city views, 4 The Terrace ant garden. Welcome to Villa Bali, the Singapore when she sported a dildo while 25m pool, border of whirlpool niches, This popular drinking spot is atop the creation of owner-designers Robin Great- performing ‘Shake Yer Dix’ in the club’s faux-rattan cabanas, live band and Screening Room’s five-story cinema- batch and Andrew Seow, who set out to main room, and revolutionary hip-hop 5m-wide lantern-inspired bar are hard restaurant-bar complex on trendy Ann Bars & Nightlife recreate their experiences in Indonesia group De La Soul brought the house down to beat – and the truffle fries are to die Siang Road. The Screening Room, with this bar, part of the larger Little Bali when they rapped and rhymed in Velvet for. The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 1 Fullerton 12 Ann Siang Hill. (+65 6221 1694 ‘lifestyle resort’. Filled with daybeds and Underground’s cosy atmosphere. The third Rd, Marina Bay. (+65 6597 5299 www. www.screeningroom.com.sg). divans, and surrounded by wild plants club, Phuture, makes room for resident DJ fullertonbayhotel.com). and ponds, it’s an idyllic drinking spot in Andrew Chow and his now-infamous Flava 5 Orgo Bar & Lab the heart of Gillman Village. Service is Fridays. This place pumps even mid-week 3 Loof A hidden treasure perched at the efficient, but unobtrusive, allowing you to with Wednesday’s Mambo Jambo, when An eccentric rooftop bar that attracts top of the Esplanade where you

Bars & Nightlife & Bars kick back and chill out undisturbed. The clubgoers make like mad things to retro pop an easygoing, eclectic crowd to its can admire the view or be entertained usual bar stock dominates, but there are tunes from the 70s, 80s and 90s. It’s no won- leather loungers on a deck lit by a by the Japanese mixologist hard

also Balinese wines that go well with the der that Zouk won Time Out Singapore’s huge electric billboard. Odeon Towers, at work behind the bar. Hotels Asian tapas. 9A Lock Rd, Gillman Village. Best Club 2010 award. 17 Jiak Kim St. #03–07, 331 North Bridge Rd. The Esplanade, 8 Raffles Ave. (+65 6473 6763 www.littlebali.com). (+65 6738 2988 www.zoukclub.com). (+65 6338 8035 www.loof.com.sg). (+65 6336 9366 www.orgo.sg). Hotels

42 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 43

three swimming pools scattered about. 1 Around Town Larkhill Rd, Sentosa Island. (+65 6825 Hotels 3888 www.sentosa.amarahotels.com). From colonial gems Marina Bay to 72-storey giants, Sands Around Town Singapore hotels are Best for... swimming in the sky on the up and up... Art & Culture With more than 2,500 rooms and suites, Ma- rina Bay Sands claims to be the biggest hotel Raffles Hotel in Singapore. We believe them. The rooms offer views of the South China Sea or Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline, but let’s be Best for... old-school charm honest: the Moshe Safdie-designed SkyPark

Art & Culture The grande dame of colonial hotels, is the real crowd puller. Sitting prettily atop Raffles needs no introduction. Es- the three hotel towers 200 metres high, hotel

tablished in 1887, the Raffles legend guests and outsiders (who part with $20 for Shopping endures, thanks to its fusion of timeless the privilege) can enjoy unfettered views elegance, classical architecture and from the Observation Deck. The best views tropical gardens. Buildings are linked are to be had from the infinity pool, the larg- by cool verandahs, and rattan furniture est of its kind. Swimming is for hotel guests Shopping and oriental rugs still dot the rooms. only but outsiders can watch smug guests Refurbished in 1991, all 103 rooms are swim while munching on $6 hot dogs, which now suites. The seven Grand Suites are is almost as fun. Sort of. 10 Bayfront Ave. Marina Bay Sands the most nostalgic, with lofty ceilings, (+65 6688 8868 www.marinabaysands.com).

polished wooden floors, opulent drapes Spas and balconies overlooking the garden. The Fullerton Hotel & Raffles Hotel

Spas Among the numerous bars and restau- The Fullerton Bay Hotel rants are the traditional Raffles Grill and of course, the Long Bar: the place to Best for... location, location, location try a Singapore Sling. 1 Beach Rd. (+65 You couldn’t ask for a perfect positioning 6337 1886 www.raffles.com). than that of the Fullerton Hotel and Fuller- ton Bay Hotel – both of which are perched

right on the banks of the Singapore River. Food Amara Sanctuary Resort Built in 1928, The Fullerton Hotel has been

Food lovingly restored from its former life as the Best for... pure indulgence island’s GPO building, and retains all of its Situated on the former premises of the Art Deco charm and elegance, right in the British Sergeants’ Quarters, the Amara heart the happening Quay district. Only a Bars & Nightlife Sanctuary is 121 rooms of pure luxury. short stroll around the corner is the equally Set in a tropical 3.5-hectare space, the luxurious, but decidedly more modern, resort stands out as a result of its hy- The Fullerton Bay Hotel. Book early to brid architectural style, where modern bag yourself a much-desired corner room glass, steel and blond-wood elements overlooking the Marina, and if you need a exist alongside the premises’ original little respite from the city, while away a few 1930s colonial features. In addition to hours at the super chic rooftop pool. Don’t

Bars & Nightlife & Bars housing Si Bon, Singapore’s only kush- miss the award-winning rooftop Lantern iage restaurant (traditional Japanese bar. The Fullerton Hotel, 1 Fullerton Square

cuisine where fresh ingredients are (+65 6733 8388 www.fullertonhotel.com). Hotels coated in egg, breadcrumbs, deep fried The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 80 Collyer Quay and served on skewers), there are also (+65 6333 8388 www.fullertonbayhotel.com) Hotels

44 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Your Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 45

Top 5... Around Town Your Singapore notes & memos... Boutique hotels Around Town Around Town

Naumi Art & Culture Art & Culture Art & Culture Shopping Shopping Shopping Spas New Majestic Spas Spas 3 The Club The Club is the Harry’s Bar chain’s Wan- New Majestic Halo at Wangz first crack at the boutique hotel market. Sip in style at Ying Yang, the sleek 1 Naumi rooftop3 The bar. Club 28 Ann Siang Rd. (+65 The Time Out Singapore Best Boutique 6808The Club 2188 is thewww.theclub.com.sg Harry’s Bar chain’s). Food Hotel 2010 comes equipped with first crack at the boutique hotel mar- Food Food some of the niftiest extras any travel- ket.4 SipWangz in style at Ying Yang, the sleek ler could wish for. Aesop toiletries, a Locatedrooftop bar. in the 28 heritage Ann Siang area Rd of (+65 Tiong Nespresso machine, designer furniture Bahru,6808 2188 this 41-bedroom www.theclub.com.sg hotel is some). - like Poltrona Frau’s Don’do Rocking thing of a sculptural marvel. Make Bars & Nightlife Chair and the all-important iPod sure 4 Wanderlustto head up to Halo, the rooftop docking station are standard in every loungeAn achingly to watch hip new the boutiquesun go down hotel with with room. 41 Seah St.St (+65(+65 64036403 60006000 aunpretentious cocktail in hand. French 231 rustic Outram cooking Rd. to www.naumihotel.com). (+65be had 6595 at Cocotte. 1388 www.wangzhotel. 2 Dickson Rd (+65 com6396) 3322 wanderlusthotel.com). 2 New Majestic Hotel You’ll feel like a rock star here thanks 5 The Scarlet Bars & Nightlife & Bars Bars & Nightlife & Bars to the big white lobby, vintage fans, Occupying a series of shophouses, designer chairs and idiosyncratically the rooftop bar, Breeze, offers

themed guest rooms. 31–37 Bukit delicious cocktails and city views. Hotels Pasoh Rd. (+65 6511 4700 www. 33 Erskine Rd. (+65 6511 3333 newmajestichotel.com). www.thescarlethotel.com). Hotels Hotels

46 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 47

Around Town Shop: beyond the malls See more... The Singapore ...and save with these great Traveller’s Singapore passes Around Town Creed 1 I shall venture beyond Changi Art & Culture Singapore MRT Airport next time I transit in Singapore. 2 I shall not limit myself to the Singapore Sling. It may be famous but there’s more fun to be had with

Art & Culture a cloud-enveloped Nitro Dry Martini from the Tippling Club, or red hot

Chilli Padi Mary from Astor Bar St Shopping Regis. Tippling Club, 8D Dempsey Rd. (+65 6475 2217 www.tipplingclub. com). Astor Bar, 29 Tanglin Rd. (+65 6506 6888). Shopping 3 I shall learn how to use ‘lah’ appropriately in a sentence, and See Singapore Attractions Pass extend my family by several thousand Powered by iVenture, the See Singapore people, by referring to all middle-aged

Attractions Pass is a smart-card style attrac- Singaporean men and women as Spas tion pass. Available for 1–3 days, the credit uncle and aunty.

Spas card-style pass includes entries to over 15 of Singapore’s favourite attractions. 1-day 4 I shall not leave Singapore pass: adult $79, child $49. (seesingaporepass. before discovering an appetite for iventurecard.com). 2am Sambal Stingray. Chomp Chomp, Stall 1, 20 Kensington Park Rd. Sentosa Play Pass

This pass allows users to access up to 13 5 I shall party Ibiza-style at Zouk Food attractions on Sentosa island and there are and Ku Dé Ta and end the night with a sophisticated drink in a tiny hidden Food variations of this pass which cater to a full gem only the locals know, like Orgo Bar day, half day, premium attractions and even & Lab. Roof Terrace, The Esplanade, one that offers mouth-watering ‘all-you-can- 8 Raffles Ave. (+65 6336 9366 www. eat’ local delights. Day Play Pass: Adult from orgo.sg). Bars & Nightlife $63.90, child from $47.90. (www.sentosa.com. sg/en/whats-on/promotions/sentosa-play-pass). 6 I shall understand Singapore’s secret food language: ‘Kopi O Kosong’ Park Hopper 3 in 1 Pass will deliver me a straight, bitter coffee. Combines the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari I shall say the food is ‘shiok’, ‘very and Jurong Bird Park into 1 pass which saves shiok’, or ‘very very shiok’, depending money on entries. (www.zoo.com.sg). on how good it is.

Bars & Nightlife & Bars The Singapore Tourist Pass 7 I shall not leave Orchard Road without buying from the high-street The Singapore Tourist Pass, the only pass Hotels stores my own weight in clothes not that offers travellers unlimited rides on yet stocked at home. ION Orchard, Singapore’s public transport system. The 2 Orchard Turn. (+65 6238 8228 Hotels pass includes the MRT, LRT and basic bus www.ionorchard.com). services. (www.thesingaporetouristpass.com). Singapore Little Black Book Time Out 49

EssentialShop: beyond information the malls All the stuff you need to know before you fly...

Around Town Useful phone numbers may accumulate up to a maximum of Police 999 three same-day receipts or invoices from Ambulance/Fire 995 the same retailer to meet this minimum Flight information 1800 542 4422 purchase amount. Tourist information 1800 736 2000 Singapore country code: +65 Customs To buy duty-free goods when entering Useful websites Singapore, you have to have been away

Art & Culture yoursingapore.com for at least two nights. You can’t bring timeoutsingapore.com cigarettes into Singapore, but you can buy them on the way out. There are no Attitude & etiquette duty-free concessions on cigarettes In general, Singaporeans are friendly or other tobacco items. You are not and helpful. However, race and religion allowed to bring in chewing gum,

Shopping are usually not topics of conversation. firecrackers or pirated DVDs and CDs. (www.customs.gov.sg). Smoking Smoking is not permitted on public Tipping transport, in museums, libraries, lifts, Singaporeans don’t generally tip, as cinemas, supermarkets, department hotels and restaurants levy a 10 per stores, hair salons, air-conditioned cent service charge on bills, denoted by

Spas restaurants and government offices. ++ on menus and bills. Alfresco cafes have designated smoking areas. Smoking is permitted in air- When to go conditioned pubs, discos, karaoke bars Singapore’s weather is hot and humid and nightspots, but not in eating places. with little variation throughout the year. Light up where it’s allowed, otherwise be The average daytime temperature is prepared for a hefty $1,000 fine. 31°C dropping to around 24°C at night. so if you want to weather the weather,

Food Tax refunds dress accordingly. A seven per cent Goods & Services Tax (GST) is charged on most items. Visas Foreign visitors can claim back the GST Nationals of most Western countries do when leaving Changi Airport. You must not require visa to visit, and if visiting spend a minimum amount of S$100.00 as a tourist will be given ‘social visit’ (including GST) on purchases from passes valid for up to 30 days upon the same retailer in the same day to arrival. Australian passport holders get a qualify for refund under the TRS. You social visit pass valid for three months.

Essential apps

Bars & Nightlife & Bars Discover this Singapore HoSay! Speaks Weatherlah HungryGoWhere or create one of your own useful Singlish Keep up to date Locate restau- using the personalised and phrases on with the local rants, bars, and demand forecast cafés quickly printable itinerary builder on YourSingapore.com Hotels

50 Time Out Your Singapore Little Black Book Plus! Download the new Your Singapore Guide app Your Singapore Little Black Book

Good things come in small packages. Time Out’s Little Black Book is your essential guide to the best of that island they call ‘The Little Red Dot’ – including sightseeing, dining, shopping, nightlife, spas and more