Posts, pics, video and motivation on Travel Lifestyle, countries around the world! Addicted to adventure travel and photography, I'm on a mission to inspire your next journey with entertaining stories, beautiful images, fun travel videos, and useful tips.
Monday, 30 November 2020
Why concerns over Covid-19 passports are not to be sneezed at - South China Morning Post
from
via "singapore travel" - Google News
Singapore’s ‘Travel Revive’ could be demonstrable example for MICE tourism recovery, says GlobalData - http://www.hotelierindia.com/
from
via "singapore travel" - Google News
6 secret drinking spots around the world to uncover
The pandemic may have put a damper on social gatherings, but that doesn’t mean conviviality has to ground to a halt. With careful adherence to government-mandated safety protocols and a good dose of common sense, going out can still be a pleasure. Although crowded dance clubs and packed bars are best avoided, there’s a special brand of nightlife that is perfect for our new socially distanced times.
Tucked away in non-descript neighbourhoods or hidden in plain sight, part of the evening’s fun is trying to locate these secret bars. Once you’re in, the establishments are usually not too crowded, giving you ample space to enjoy your drink and soak up the atmosphere.
We’ve picked out six hard-to-locate bars on the Singapore Airlines network to check out the next time you’re in the destination.
A secret drinking den at Dragon Chamber, Singapore
From the outside, this bar and restaurant looks just like any other buzzy coffee shop in the Boat Quay area. However, its glass-fronted refrigerator swings open to reveal a tiny passageway that leads into the Dragon Chamber. Designed to mimic the look and feel of Chinatown gambling dens and secret society hangouts of yore, the space is covered with striking artwork from local and regional artists – a nod to past and recent Chinese traditions. The drinks also pay homage to Asian culture, with inventive concoctions such as the Java Royale, which includes java syrup and calamansi juice, as well as the Land of the Rising Sun, made with bourbon-infused yuzu.
From now till 30 December 2020, dine at Dragon Chamber and enjoy the refreshing Aperol Spritz at just S$15++ during lunch hours (11am to 3pm) from Tuesday to Sunday. There are also opportunities to win exclusive Aperol merchandise – simply enquire with the staff on that day.
A submarine-themed experience at Shinka, Osaka
Situated in a quiet residential neighbourhood, this bar is notoriously difficult to locate. Here’s a tip: search for “Deepening Submarine Bar” in Google Maps when you’re in the area and look out for a narrow alley with a heavy-duty metal door at the end. Push open the door and you’ll find yourself in an eccentric “subterranean” world. Built partially with actual submarines, the interiors of Shinka feature a complex network of steel piping, pressure gauges, control panels and peepholes. There is limited seating, so get cosy as you sip on their signature gin and tonic.
1920s allure and excess at Bathtub Gin, New York
Inspired by the Prohibition era in 1920s United States, when secret bars and speakeasies mushroomed in underground locations, Bathtub Gin is discreetly tucked behind the Stone Street Coffee Company in the Chelsea neighbourhood. Channel your inner Jay Gatsby or Daisy Buchanan as you soak up the bar’s heady 1920s atmosphere replete with plush interiors, live jazz and burlesque, as well as top-notch craft cocktails with a strong gin focus.
Dapper drinks at Discount Suit Company, London
Located a short walk from Spitalfields Market and Liverpool Street station, this bar camouflages itself with the many clothiers and shoe shops in the area. Don’t be deceived by the misleading sign that hangs on the building’s façade – “Alterations While U Wait”. This just means that you’ve come to the right place. Descend a flight of steep stairs and mind you don’t bump your head on the incredibly low ceilings. Inside the dimly-lit bar, the only suits you’ll find are on the dapper banker types – most of the clientele are a mishmash of London’s trendy set. While the cocktail menu is rotated regularly, you can always expect reasonably priced drinks, with most concoctions setting you back just £8 each.
A Parisian affair at Circa, Kuala Lumpur
Before you pay a visit to Circa, be sure to retrieve that week’s passcode from the bar’s Instagram page. Hidden along a back alley in the busy Plaza Batai, the bar is accessible through a “hole” in a red-bricked wall and up a spiral staircase. Inspired by old-world Parisian boudoirs, Circa’s interiors featured exposed brick walls, mismatched vintage furniture and warm, muted lighting. Some must-try cocktails include the Edison, a blend of butterfly pea with Kantan-infused gin, rose extract and cane syrup; and the Yuan Dynasty (a warm brew of Hennessy VSOP, oolong tea infusion, and Osmanthus syrup marinated in orange peel and pandan leaf).
Choice cuts and cocktails at The Barber Shop, Sydney
To the casual observer, The Barber Shop looks like any other upmarket gentlemen’s grooming salon. But for those in the know, there is a cocktail bar tucked away at the rear, behind an unmarked doorway. This hybrid venue, which first opened in 2013, is now a favourite with gin lovers for their impressive collection of over 700 gin labels from around the world. Naturally, the cocktail menu is gin-focused, with guests given the opportunity to sample gin “flights” as well as a range of classic or craft cocktails. If you’re planning on paying them a visit, do note that Covid-19 restrictions mean they can only accommodate a small number of guests in 1.5-hour time slots, so be sure to book well ahead of time.
Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours before visiting, and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about.
The information is accurate as of press time. For updated information, please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website.
To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights, visit singaporeair.com.
SEE ALSO: 4 reasons this year’s Singapore Cocktail Festival is the most exciting yet
The post 6 secret drinking spots around the world to uncover appeared first on SilverKris.
from SilverKris
Sunday, 29 November 2020
Support local: The best Christmas gift guide for every person in your life
Starting and maintaining a business can be tough, even in the best of times. And it’s been made even more challenging in today’s climate, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to throw the world into uncertainty. The difficulties are further amplified if you’re a woman, says entrepreneur Tjin Lee, as female entrepreneurs are more likely to lack the support networks of people who can help them launch and sustain businesses.
This is the reason why Lee, the CEO and co-founder of CRIB, a not-for-profit social enterprise that empowers women through entrepreneurship, decided to launch a social campaign with Makers Inc. Studio to give women-led businesses a boost.
“It’s been a challenging year where many businesses have taken a hard hit, as many are reliant on tourist arrivals in Singapore,” says Lee. According to her, the smaller brands struggle even more as they can’t always afford to do digital or social media marketing to spread awareness and gain online sales to make up for the loss of physical footfall to stores.
“We decided to rally Singapore’s thought leaders, content creators and celebrities to join our local businesses in creating a campaign where we are united in solidarity to show love for our favourite local makers and creators,” adds Lee. #SgLoveLocal sees big names such as media personality Jade Seah, actress-host Oon Shu Ann, Hype Records artiste Shine Koh and creative consultant Tracy Phillips showing their love for these homegrown labels.
The initiative will have an added good cause – 15% of all profits will go to AWARE Singapore, which advocates for gender equality. “It is very much part of CRIB’s mission that we should uplift others, and those who are able should reach out a helping hand and pull another woman up. We hope to uplift the vulnerable women in our community to let them know that this is a caring sisterhood,” says Lee.
This Christmas, instead of purchasing meaningless stocking fillers or buying your gifts from an international mega brand, why not invest in some quality products from Singapore businesses for your loved ones? We ask Lee to share some great gift ideas from some of these women-led local labels for every person in your life.
For husbands
I would choose a cool printed shirt from Elizabeth Little. I love that they come in matching adult and little boy sizes, perfect for dressing the whole family.
For wives
The new jewellery for 2021 is a bejewelled mask chain! I would choose a series of stylish masks from Maskela – they come in gorgeous and luxe fabrics such as brocades, sequins and satins, and I would pair those with a statement bejewelled mask chain so she can stay safe and stylish all at once.
For mums
A gorgeous scarf from Binary Style would do the trick. I love their vibrant Singapore-centric prints that marry architecture and nature. I might also get a pair of modern Peranakan-inspired earrings from EDEN + ELIE, which works with a community of disadvantaged artisans to produce their hand-beaded creations in Singapore. These are extra special gifts with heart!
For dads
I would gift dad with a Clynn by Nature gift set of natural hair rejuvenation products, researched and developed right here in Singapore by founder Lynn Yap, who is a chemist by training.
For kids
I would choose the Pocket kimonos by Pocket Label for kids aged three to eight years old. It folds neatly into a compact pouch, which is great as a carry-along jacket, ready for use when feeling chilly. It also has large pockets, which will make it perfect for collecting ang pows (red packets) come Chinese New Year.
For sisters
I would gift them a pair of sparkling Toujours earrings from JeannieRichard, which are a great way to glam up those Zoom calls! Made with Swarovski crystals with unique hand-beaded tassel designs, these statement earrings are classic keepsakes that can also be customised with longer or shorter tassels. I love them because they’re lightweight, and pair with everything from T-shirts to gowns.
For brothers
I would opt for the B Clean waterless face cleanser from eco-conscious Singapore skincare brand Bhuman. They have designed a 100% plant-based enzyme powder cleanser that has zero water footprint, making it the perfect companion for those who want a fuss free but high-performance cleanser. Formulated without water, it also means it’s leak-proof in its bottle, so no spills in the gym bag for his active lifestyle!
For best friends
I would gift them with the Rise & Shine Day Glower Moisturiser from Auolive, which specialises in multiple award-winning one-minute skincare options. It’s an antioxidant and brightening moisturiser with built-in SPF 30 sun protection, making it a skin-nourishing, time-saving must-have for our tropical weather.
SEE ALSO: How to enjoy a magical White Christmas in Singapore this year
The post Support local: The best Christmas gift guide for every person in your life appeared first on SilverKris.
from SilverKris
Saturday, 28 November 2020
Singapore-Hong Kong travel bubble bursts - The Australian Financial Review
from
via "singapore travel" - Google News
Cathay Pacific says demand for Hong Kong-Singapore travel bubble flights was ‘overwhelming’, before Covid-19 fourth wave forced delay - Yahoo Singapore News
8 places in Hong Kong to get your specialty coffee fix
With the pending launch of an air travel bubble between Singapore and Hong Kong, plenty of Lion City residents are likely planning their jaunts to the Fragrant Harbour for a much-awaited vacation. Between all the sightseeing, eating, drinking, shopping and exploring, you’ll need plenty of caffeine to keep you energised on-the-go.
Ask any Hong Kong dweller and they’ll tell you that tea – which was introduced by the British colonisers – reigns supreme: an estimated 2.5 million cups of tea are drunk by residents per year. The city is also well-known for its ubiquitous cha chaan tengs (casual restaurants offering Western-style food) that each serve their own version of Hong Kong-style nai cha (milk tea), whereby strongly brewed black tea is mixed with evaporated milk and poured through a strainer multiple times, resulting in a silky, frothy and fragrant blend.
That being said, the specialty coffee scene has been slowly picking up steam over the past decade. This has been in tandem with the growing global craze for single-origin beans; brews made with sleek and geeky gadgets such as siphons and AeroPress machines; and a respect for and interest in growing, harvesting and roasting methods. Out of the numerous coffee shops that have sunk their roots into Hong Kong, here are a few standout options to patronise on your next visit.
1. The Cupping Room
The Cupping Room was founded in 2011, when the city’s specialty coffee industry was still relatively in its infancy, and remains one of the scene’s key players today. They still maintain the same respect for and devotion to growing, harvesting and processing methods, with a bias for beans that offer a great aroma, sweetness and clean acidity upon roasting. Choose from one of their four outposts (Wan Chai, Central and a separate café and roastery in Sheung Wan) and go for a single-origin filter brew, which really showcases the quality of their beans. Their Sheung Wan café in particular also offers a full food menu with Aussie-style dishes such as avocado on toast with ricotta cheese and a poached egg; and crunchy granola with honeycomb and seasonal fresh fruits. Singapore residents can also check out their city-state outlet, located an Ngee Ann City.
2. The Coffee Academics
If there’s one Hong Kong-based coffee shop that’s made a name for itself beyond the Fragrant Harbour, it’s Jennifer Wai’s The Coffee Academics. Established in 2012, the brand now boasts numerous branches within Hong Kong, and has spread to Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and, imminently, Japan. Step into any one of their sleek, streamlined – yet welcoming – outlets and you can expect high-quality brews made with style and finesse. Be sure to sample the special Ice Drip coffee, whereby ice water is slowly dripped over a bed of coffee for a smooth and mellow brew with a rounded mouthfeel. Another standout is the Bulletproof drink: black coffee mixed with coconut oil and MCT oil for a morning boost.
3. Knockbox Coffee Company
Operating out of two locations (one in Central and another in Mong Kok), this humble company makes arguably some of the best coffee in the city. Owner Patrick Tam was one of Hong Kong’s first certified quality graders, and the drinks served here certainly reflect his pedigree and dedication to the field. Smooth and velvety shots of espresso are pulled using a top-quality La Marzocco Strada EP, and a bevy of different grinders and filter coffee-brewing contraptions are also employed to prepare the beverages. We recommend ordering a filter brew tailored to your bean and brewing preference, and picking up a few portable drip bags to stuff into your bag for later consumption.
4. Hazel & Hershey Coffee Roasters
This spot along the bustling Peel Street in Central bills itself as a community coffee shop, where nurturing a love for coffee among its customers is prioritised just as much as the drinks themselves – which is to say a lot. Besides importing their own green coffee, which is then roasted on the premises, the establishment also retails an extensive range of home-brewing contraptions and conducts workshops themed around roasting, brewing, barista skills and cultivating a general appreciation for coffee. Take a seat in the playfully designed seating area – which sports a chocolate brown and vivid teal colour palette – and sample a coffee of your choice. In the mood for a sweet treat? Pick the affogato, which comes with a generous dollop of vanilla ice cream.
5. Artistry Brewing Company
Located in the North Point district, this calming café offers a gorgeous, light-filled space that’s ideal for a lazy afternoon of lounging while sipping on a quality cup of joe. The interior’s vintage-chic vibe comes courtesy of mismatched chairs and pillows; furniture made from recycled wood that sport raw and unfinished edges; shelves lined with various homewares and tchotchkes; plenty of lush plants strewn throughout the space; and an inviting outdoor terrace. We suggest pairing one of their espresso-based drinks – made using light-roasted beans – with a slice of cake. Non-coffee-drinkers can opt for the equally delicious matcha latte, which offers perfectly balanced earthy, smooth and bitter flavours.
6. 18 Grams Specialty Coffee
What began as a hole-in-the-wall espresso bar has now sprouted multiple locations throughout the city, all of which offer a range of top-notch espresso-based and filter beverages made using in-house roasted beans from the likes of Ethiopia, Brazil and Guatemala. The establishment was founded by John So, a former programmer and app developer who decided to turn his passion for coffee into a full-time job. Besides the standard options – think flat whites, macchiatos and pour-over varieties – you’ll also find some downright intriguing items on the menu, such as a Red Velvet Latte or Nutella Latte, which can be enjoyed with hearty dishes from their all-day breakfast offerings.
7. Manson’s Lot
For Aussie-style coffee and grub, you can’t go wrong with Manson’s Lot in Wan Chai. The bohemian-chic coffee shop shuns the ubiquitous whitewashed walls, industrial furnishings and minimalist décor in favour of a cosy and charming joint more reminiscent of a neighbourhood bistro. Select a single-origin brew, and your drink will be delivered with a small informational card with more details about the tasting notes and provenance of the beans. There’s also the refreshing option of a Tonic Espresso Bomb: a shot of espresso served with tonic water, an orange wedge and sugar. Pair your coffee with moreish food options such as smoked duck breast risotto or seared scallop pasta.
8. Sensory Zero
Bean geeks will have a field day at Sensory Zero, where, in addition to sampling glorious cups of coffee, you can up your knowledge with a host of near-weekly workshops. If you’re just here for the coffee, though, you’ll be well satisfied with the offerings across its five locations. While a classic latte, double espresso or filter coffee is a safe bet, you may also want to sample their specialty Ginger Sparkling Americano: espresso mixed with sparkling water and homemade caramelised ginger syrup. Food-wise, expect creative takes on brunch favourites, such as a flaky croissant topped with thick and succulent pieces of unagi or Wagyu beef and a jiggly onsen egg over rice.
Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours as well as booking and seating requirements before visiting, and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about.
The information is accurate as of press time. For updated information, please refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website.
To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights, visit singaporeair.com.
SEE ALSO: 8 places in Tokyo to get your specialty coffee fix
The post 8 places in Hong Kong to get your specialty coffee fix appeared first on SilverKris.
from SilverKris
Friday, 27 November 2020
What you need to know about the Inside Singapore Airlines tour
A thousand Singapore residents managed to get a rare behind-the-scenes look into the evolution of the national carrier as well as the intricate roles of its crew over the past weekend (21 and 22 November 2020), as part of the hugely popular Inside Singapore Airlines (SIA) tour.
Participants were treated to a showcase of SIA’s heritage and sustainability efforts, as well as tours of their training facilities and a first look, and taste, of the newest Economy class meals. They were also able to gain an insight into crew evacuation training that involves various emergency scenarios on air, land and even water.
Fun-filled activities such as balloon sculpting and making your own batik roses entertained the crowd and gave everyone additional memorabilia to bring home, on top of the custom Discover Your Singapore Airlines totebag that every visitor receives, filled with souvenirs such as a hand sanitiser kit, travel-size toiletries and KrisShop vouchers. An Inside Singapore Airlines passport is also included and visitors who collect a minimum of 5 stamps on them can redeem exclusive iron-on patches.
If that is not enough, you can even purchase KrisShop merchandise and inflight serviceware and equipment at the event. The most unique item you can take home – actual carts used in B747 and B777 aircrafts for almost two decades. Thoroughly washed and cleaned, these carts can be purchased on its own or at an additional cost, they can be filled with your favourite champagne and wines. These carts have probably travelled more than an average traveller, having spent over 57,000 hours in the air. Truly a statement piece to have at home for the aviation enthusiast.
Those who signed up for the add-on options – such as wine appreciation and grooming workshops; the flight simulator; and junior cabin crew and junior pilot experiences – were thrilled by the chance to get a glimpse at the inner workings of SIA and see for themselves how the top-notch service that the airline is known for came into being.
The Inside Singapore Airlines tour received overwhelming demand and was fully booked hours after it was launched. Some 500 people were allowed in each session on Saturday and Sunday, although more than 20,000 people expressed interest in the tour, says SIA chief executive Goh Choon Phong.
Two more sessions are slated for the coming weekend of 28 and 29 November 2020, with another 1,000 participants scheduled to participate. Goh says if there is continued interest from the public, the airline might consider offering more similar experiences in future.
Inside Singapore Airlines is one of three initiatives under the Discover Your Singapore Airlines campaign meant to engage its fans on the ground, given the limitations in travel due to the pandemic.
One of the initiatives – Restaurant A380 @Changi, which involved dining on board the world’s largest passenger aircraft – was so popular that seats were sold out just half an hour after they became available online. More sessions were opened up to a waitlist, but those were quickly snapped up as well.
The SIA@Home service, which involves the delivery of SIA’s First Class or Business Class meals created by world-renowned International Culinary Panel chefs, has also received more than 600 orders, with half requesting for the First Class menu, says Goh.
“The key objective of this campaign is for us to engage our customers during the time when we are not able to fly as actively as before. We are still flying at less than 20% of our pre-Covid capacity, so this provides us with the opportunity for our customers to visit us and interact with us,” he says. “I am very touched by the overwhelming support. Not just in terms of them attending the event, but the encouraging words they have expressed to our staff – those were heartfelt, and we truly appreciate them.”
He adds that the staff have also enjoyed the opportunity to interact with their customers once again, and this has been a morale booster for all of them to keep going in these challenging times.
Transport minister Ong Ye Kung, who attended the session, agrees. “I’ve met so many SIA staff from different departments and their fighting spirit is commendable. I’ve also met many families who are here today, and you can see their affinity and love for the brand, what SIA stands for and how SIA represents Singapore. It’s a great event, and I congratulate SIA for holding this.”
As mentioned earlier, visitors were treated to a little bonus during the Inside Singapore Airlines event: they were able to satisfy their cravings for an in-flight meal by digging into a free main course from SIA’s new Economy Class menu, which will be provided for flights under 3.5 hours from 1 December 2020. Visitors were also the first to see the new packaging in which their meals will be served on such flights.
The new packaging comprises a leak-proof box and cup made of Forest Stewardship Council-certified paper, a dessert box and a cutlery pack made of bamboo with a paper wrap. More than 40 new dishes will be available on rotation on different flights, including international options and local favourites such as mee siam and nasi lemak, which proved to be a crowd favourite during the tour.
Certain dishes such as mee siam and laksa, for example, were previously not offered in Economy Class because of the serving ware used. The new packaging, which can retain gravy and soupy dishes without seepage and is also oven-safe and resistant to overheating, allows the aircraft to now serve soup and other liquid items.
“It’s a very exciting opportunity for us to introduce this. Even during a difficult time, we continue to innovate and improve the overall experience for our customers as well as contribute towards sustainability,” says Goh.
SEE ALSO: 7 reasons why the SIA@Home package is worth the splurge
The post What you need to know about the Inside Singapore Airlines tour appeared first on SilverKris.
from SilverKris
Thursday, 26 November 2020
The best experiences in Singapore’s Orchard neighbourhood
Widely regarded as the city-state’s premier shopping strip, Orchard Road has long been home base for Singapore’s top shopping malls, designer brands and department stores. Back in the 1830s, before it became the first port of call for shoppers looking to score a solid deal or take home some rare buys, it stood as an unnamed rural stretch that was lined with nutmeg plantations, fruit orchards and pepper farms. It was only in 1958 with the opening of Singapore’s very first department store, TANGS, that the area began its transformation into the retail haven it is today, with plenty of hotels, F&B outlets and exciting attractions rising up in the proceeding decades.
Today, you’ll find plenty to do in the larger Orchard area, which stretches from Tanglin Road all the way down to Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Besides the aforementioned air-conditioned shopping centres – a great way to beat the heat and humidity – where you can spend an entire day shopping until you drop, you can also catch a film at one of the many movie theatres; wander along Emerald Hill and Killiney Road, both of which are filled with charming shop-house architecture from yesteryear; and get your fill of nature at green lungs such as the Singapore Botanic Gardens and the Istana Park.
Decadent desserts at Awfully Chocolate +Cafe
One of Singapore’s most beloved brands, Awfully Chocolate’s first dine-in +Cafe concept at Great World City is an ideal spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. Take your pick from options including pastries, savoury bites, cakes and beverages from their sister Sinpopo Brand. Besides the signature All Chocolate Cake, you’ll find a Sticky Cinnamon Roll, which is sure to tantalise your taste buds with its combination of pillowy bread, fragrant cinnamon and cream cheese. There’s also the Bread & Butter Pudding that features golden egg custard and brown sugar cinnamon-sprinkled bread. It all pairs perfectly with chocolate beverages such as the Fat Chocolate, which comes with a dark chocolate truffle on the side for extra richness.
awfullychocolate.com; fb.com/awfullychocolate.sg; +65 6219 4079
Sumptuous food at Da Shi Jia Big Prawn Mee
There are few things more comforting than a piping-hot bowl of prawn noodles, made with quality ingredients and chock-full of flavour. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Da Shi Jia Big Prawn Mee. Opened in 2017, this eatery is helmed by second-generation chef Seth Sim and is located in a quaint shop house along Killiney Road. Their Signature Prawn Noodles comes in various sizes (depending on the size and type of the prawns) with a truly outstanding, authentic and aromatic broth. You also have the option of adding additional ingredients, including succulent pork ribs, fishcake and vegetables. Another favourite on the menu is the Wok-Fried Big Prawn White Bee Hoon, which has a rich and robust umami flavour.
fb.com/dashijiabigprawnmee; dashijia.sg@gmail.com; +65 6732 1085
A plethora of plants at Singapore Botanic Gardens
Take in some greenery before you embark on your shopping escapades with a stop at this expansive park. Aside from encapsulating 83-hectares of verdant natural wonders, it’s also the only tropical botanical garden to be named a Unesco World Heritage Site. Families with kids can visit the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden. It’s the first garden in Asia dedicated to children, and your little ones will be able to gain a greater appreciation for nature while checking out the various attractions. Another highlight is the National Orchid Garden, which is dedicated to Singapore national flower and displays over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids. Do also drop by the Ginger Garden, where you’ll find a few hundred species of the plant and its relatives.
Healthy and refreshing delights at Fruce
Need a pick-me-up to recharge after some intensive shopping? Head over to Fruce at Wisma Atria, where you’ll find affordable and delicious Singapore-inspired dessert beverages. Established in 2016 (with another recently opened outlet at NEX in Serangoon), this popular home-grown brand specialises in inventive concoctions with a local twist. You’ll find many tropical fruits used throughout their recipes, such as the rich, creamy and refreshing signature Avocado Coconut drink that’s a favourite among customers. Further worth considering are the Coffee Grande Avocado and the Pandan Coconut, and you can also add various house-made toppings (such as Petite Konyaku, Coco Capellini and Mochi Kurano) to your drink.
fb.com/fruce.sg; +65 6910 3108
Exciting pottery-making activities at Clay Cove
In search of a fun, therapeutic and creative activity? Try your hand at pottery-making classes with Clay Cove. Established in 2002 and located at Delfi Orchard, Clay Cove is a pottery studio that offers a range of classes for both adults and kids. Children of all ages enjoy squishing, squelching, pinching, rolling, poking, stretching and pounding the clay, while adults can embark on a project that allows for self-discovery and rejuvenation from the daily grind. Pottery-making is a wonderful bonding activity for the entire family, so why not come to Clay Cove and discover it for yourself? From an imprint of your experience in Singapore to a personal emblem or motif, it’s here that you can transform it into a pottery artwork to be treasured forever.
claycove.com; enquiry@claycove.com; +65 6733 8129
Delicious eats at Lawry’s the Prime Rib Singapore
For one of the most decadent dinners in town, head to Lawry’s the Prime Rib Singapore. Located at Mandarin Gallery, the restaurant offers sweeping views of Orchard Road from its sleek and opulent dining area, which exudes an air of sophistication and luxury. The star of the show is undoubtedly the roasted wet-aged USDA Prime Rib of Beef carved with table-side service. Each standing rib roast is made with top-quality beef that is aged for up to 28 days for optimal tenderness, before being slowly roasted over beds of rock salt to ensure that the meat is juicy and flavourful. Don’t miss out on sumptuous side dishes such as traditional Yorkshire pudding; baked Idaho russet potatoes; and the Original Spinning Bowl Salad.
lawrys.com.sg; reservations@lawrys.com.sg; +65 6836 3333
Shop ’til you drop at Design Orchard
Housing a bevy of made-in-Singapore labels under one roof, Design Orchard is your go-to destination for stylish creations by some of the Lion City’s finest designers. The large, light-flooded retail space occupies a prime position at the intersection of Orchard Road and Cairnhill Road and stocks over 60 exciting brands: including functional fashion label Reckless Ericka; Binary Style, which crafts scarves in an array of bright and bold prints; and Artisan of Sense, known for their eco-friendly artisan candles. Besides the main retail floor, which you can spend a good couple of hours perusing, the building also has an incubation workspace for designers and a public outdoor amphitheatre that hosts various events throughout the year.
designorchard.sg; designorchard@taff.org.sg; +65 6513 1743
Indulge in world-class tipples at Manhattan
A perennial entry on the World’s 50 Best Bars List (currently ranked 14th), this New York-style speakeasy at Regent Singapore is your go-to spot for both creative and classic tipples in a swanky setting. The dimly lit space takes the hotel bar experience up several luxurious notches, with plush leather couches, velvet curtains and gold-tinted furnishings. There’s a large central space for those who want to see and be seen, as well as a handful of cosy alcoves if you fancy a little more privacy. The bar just launched a new menu featuring 18 cocktails and six zero-proof beverages, which celebrates iconic Manhattanites who have left an indelible imprint in their chosen fields: from the late, great Anthony Bourdain to fashion designer Vera Wang.
regenthotels.com/manhattan; manhattan@regentsingapore.com.sg; +65 6725 3377
Browse the stacks at library@orchard
Orchard may be home to many great bookstores, but there’s also library@orchard when you want to loan titles rather than purchase them. Situated on the third and fourth floors of Orchard Gateway, the library houses a treasure trove of magazines, novels, anthologies, poetry collections and popular fiction to suit just about any reader. The library places a special focus on reading material related to lifestyle, design and the applied arts, so this is your go-to spot for the latest issues of fashion magazines, interiors books and biographies of noted designers. Due to current safe-distancing measures, you’ll need to book a slot ahead of your visit via their website (each booking allows you to stay for a two-hour period).
nlb.gov.sg; enquiry@nlb.gov.sg
Some of these images were shot before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
With thanks to our advertisers, Awfully Chocolate +Cafe, Da Shi Jia Big Prawn Mee, Fruce, Clay Cove and Lawry’s the Prime Rib Singapore.
The post The best experiences in Singapore’s Orchard neighbourhood appeared first on SilverKris.
from SilverKris