How to enjoy winter in London… outdoors

Winter days in London are cold and short – temperatures typically hover between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, and the sun sets as early as 4pm. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun outdoors. Planning a year-end trip to the London? Instead of spending your time cooped up indoors, layer up, hit the streets and make the most of London in winter. 

1. Hone your ice skating skills

Ice skating is a popular winter pastime in London, with rinks popping up all across the capital. At Skate at Somerset House (November 2022 to January 2023, exact dates TBC), you can take a spin around the neoclassical courtyard, where a 12m-tall Christmas tree takes centre stage. Or head to the Ice Rink Canary Wharf (22 October 2022 to 25 February 2023), which is set against the backdrop of the district’s gleaming skyscrapers. Over at the Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (November 2022 to January 2023, exact dates TBC) – situated in the gardens of Henry VIII’s historic home in south-west London – you can glide across the ice while admiring the complex’s striking Tudor architecture.

Ice skaters at Somerset House. Photo credit: Shutterstock

2. Check out the Christmas markets

If you’re visiting London during the festive season, be sure to check out one of the city’s magical Christmas markets. At the Southbank Centre Winter Market (dates TBC) along the Thames, you’ll find rows of Alpine-style chalets selling everything from street food to stocking fillers. Warm up with a delicious cup of mulled wine, or perhaps some creamy cheese fondue. Elsewhere, the Leicester Square Christmas Market (dates TBC) sees the bustling tourist district transformed into a winter wonderland of sorts: think traditional wooden stalls selling food and drink, trees draped with fairy lights, plus a lineup of comedy and cabaret shows – held in a 1920s-style speigeltent (travelling tent used for entertainment) to boot.

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3. Enjoy some Yuletide fun

Of course, the biggest Yuletide extravaganza in London is undoubtedly Hyde Park Winter Wonderland (18 November 2022 to 2 January 2023), which attracts millions of visitors every year. Kids will adore the family-friendly fairground rides, which include a Ferris wheel, an ice slide and a funhouse. In the mood for some white-knuckle fun? Try the Munich Looping, the largest transportable roller coaster in the world, or the XXL, a vertigo-inducing, pendulum-style ride that can swing to a height of 47 metres. After all that action, chill out with a frothy pint of lager and some grilled bratwurst at the Bavarian Village, or wander around the Christmas market and pick up a knick knack or two.

The enchanting Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park. Photo credit: Shutterstock

4. Admire the festive lights

When darkness falls, it’s time to see London’s sparkling Christmas displays in their full glory. In 1954, Regent Street was the first location in central London to put up Christmas lights. It has continued to do so ever since: from November to January each year, 16 spirit-shaped sculptures studded with twinkling LED lights soar above the length of the street. Nearby, Oxford Street also puts up quite a show every Christmas: last year’s display featured thousands of shining stars suspended on strings of fairy lights. Other places that receive festive glow-ups include Trafalgar Square, which is graced by an enormous, illuminated spruce – an annual gift from Norway in gratitude for Britain’s support during World War II.

The Christmas light-up at Regent Street. Photo credit: Shutterstock

5. Get back to nature

There’s nowhere better to enjoy the crisp winter air than at one of London’s famous green spaces. Avid bird-watchers will love Regent’s Park, which is frequented by winged winter visitors including the Mistle Thrush and the Pied Wagtail. The park is also home to the ZSL London Zoo, which is open all year round except on Christmas Day. Here, you can get up close and personal with over 700 animal species, from llamas to lemurs. To admire some winter greenery, make a trip to Kew Gardens in south-west London, which features one of Europe’s most comprehensive holly collections and a diverse range of conifers. Or for views of a different kind, take a stroll through verdant Hampstead Heath, where you can drink in magnificent vistas of the London skyline from atop Parliament Hill. 

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6. Take an invigorating dip

Up for a bracing winter swim? London Fields Lido in Hackney is open 365 days a year and features an Olympic-size outdoor pool that’s heated to a comfortable 25 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, intrepid travellers can consider cold water swimming, which purportedly improves your circulation and boosts your metabolism. Take the plunge at Hampstead Heath’s natural swimming spots – the Kenwood Ladies’ Bathing Pond, the Highgate Men’s Pond and the Hampstead Mixed Bathing Pond – which remain open throughout winter. Just remember to read the safety guidelines and bring your wetsuit! 

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7 otherworldly adventures of a lifetime in Western Australia

Disconnect from the everyday and the well-trodden in Western Australia, where you’ll step outside of the everyday and into a dream. The country’s largest State with its longest coastline and sunniest capital city of Perth, Western Australia is a place to recharge your spirit – outdoors in the fresh air and wide open spaces, where it’s always summer somewhere. If it’s adventure you seek, these seven destinations are worthy additions to your travel bucket list.

1. Swim alongside gentle whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef is a dream destination for nature and wildlife lovers thanks to its easy accessibility and lack of crowds. Over 300-kilometres long, this UNESCO World Heritage listed reef is one of the most biologically diverse marine environments on the planet and home to over 200 species of coral and 500 species of fish.

Ningaloo is also home to the gentle whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world. Here you can take an ecologically respectful boat tour run by passionate locals and swim alongside these plankton-eating giants of the ocean – a rare wildlife encounter that will stay with you forever.

You can also swim with graceful humpback whales as they migrate along the coast each year on Western Australia’s ‘Humpback Highway’, or flip underwater with Coral Bay’s acrobatic manta rays. If you prefer to stay dry, you can always glide over the dazzling reefs on a glass-bottom boat tour.

Swim with gentle whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef

2. Embark on an Aboriginal bush tucker tour near Margaret River

Feel the freedom and experience the flavours of the Margaret River Region. Journey through more than 150 wine producers and 100 cellar doors, where the forest meets the ocean. Best part? It’s only a 2.5-hour drive south of Perth. Winemakers, farmers, surfers and creatives have congregated here, inspired by nature’s beauty. Margaret River is rightly renowned as Australia’s most premium wine region, producing a quarter of the country’s fine wines.

Of course, it’s not just about the wine and beer – there are plenty of other adventures here too. Hike or mountain bike along forest trails that hug the stunning coastline. Surf world-class breaks, watch migrating whales and see other native wildlife.

Take an Aboriginal bush tucker tour or feel the thrill of rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, horse riding or sky diving. Slow down and discover the stillness of an ancient cave, stroll along the longest timber piled jetty in the Southern hemisphere or just relax on some of the world’s best beaches.

Celebrate the art of wine in the Margaret River Region

3. Sunbathe with kangaroos in Esperance

An ocean and nature lover’s dream, Esperance is an isle-wrapped town with an unspoilt coastline rivalling any in the world. Nestled amongst white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, pristine national parks, dramatic rock formations and untouched islands, Esperance is about 8 hours’ drive or a short 90-minute flight from Perth.

Share Australia’s whitest beach, Lucky Bay, with friendly sunbathing kangaroos. It stretches for five peaceful kilometres with a stunning backdrop of the Recherche Archipelago’s 110 islands. Other beaches that are popular among locals include Hellfire Bay, Twilight Beach and Blue Haven.

For further adventures, cruise or fly in a helicopter to the small nature reserve of Woody Island — a great day trip or stay longer in a ‘glamping’ hut overlooking the ocean. Spot dolphins, sea eagles and sea lions at play on the boat ride over. Join an eco-tour, swim, snorkel, kayak or just relax on the beach.

Share Australia’s whitest beach, Lucky Bay, with friendly sunbathing kangaroos

4. Meet the adorable quokkas of Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is a little pocket of paradise in Western Australia that’s jam-packed with adventure. Getting to this car-free, protected nature reserve is easy: take a short ferry ride from the mainland or arrive in style by helicopter or airplane.

You’ll be greeted by 63 stunning beaches, 20 beautiful bays, an abundance of spectacular marine life, and the world’s happiest animal, the adorable quokka. Discover Rottnest Island’s cultural significance and history on an Aboriginal guided tour, then enjoy an ocean boat cruise dining on sumptuous local seafood.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, join a hiking trek through nature or a guided snorkelling tour of the island’s underwater wonders. Jump on an adventure boat to watch whales, dolphins and seals. Savour dinner and a cool drink while the sun sets over Thompson Bay, before retiring in your luxury, eco or glamping accommodation.

A friendly quokka poses for a photo

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5. Soar over the Bungle Bungle Range on a helicopter tour

Spread over the north-western corner of Australia, and with fewer people per square kilometre than almost any other place on earth, is the ancient and untouched Kimberley region. Quiet but powerful; part soulful, part magic. The Kimberley grounds you and the red dust never leaves you.

Gaze from an open-door helicopter at the 350 million-year-old World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. Feel the thrill of a boat cruise through the Horizontal Waterfalls or tackle one of Australia’s greatest four-wheel-drive adventures, the legendary 660-kilometre Gibb River Road.

The Kimberley also offers a range of profound Aboriginal experiences with the world’s oldest living culture and the traditional custodians of this land. Explore ancient rock art galleries, learn about the different Aboriginal language groups or hear Dreamtime stories from an Elder. Got some extra time? Go mud crabbing or spear fishing then camp on Country for bush tucker.

Tour the 350 million-year-old World Heritage-listed Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park

6. Hop on a camel and catch the sunset in Broome

Broome is both a laid-back tropical oasis and the western gateway to the Kimberley. Thanks to its 1800s pearling history, Broome is one of the world’s finest producers of pearls today. It’s also the perfect destination to unwind after more rugged adventures. Relax by the beach with a cocktail in hand or savour local specialties like pearl meat, ginger beer and barramundi.

Sunsets in Broome are a sight to behold. Locals and tourists congregate each evening on pristine, 22-kilometre-long Cable Beach to witness the spectacular fiery colours – sometimes on the back of an unhurried camel. The iconic Sunset Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a cool drink as the fiery sun dips into the turquoise ocean. When the full moon rises over the mangroves of Roebuck Bay at low tide, you can see a ‘Staircase to the Moon’, a legacy of some of the most dramatic tidal movements in the world.

Alternatively, hop on a guided tour to a working pearl farm or cruise through Roebuck Bay to see rare snubfin dolphins or migrating humpback whales.

Go on a sunset camel ride at the iconic Cable Beach in Broome

7. Discover the sun-drenched beaches of Perth

Situated on the banks of the Swan River, Perth is a modern city nestled in nature and brimming with all kinds of adventures. Ready to discover a thriving metropolis filled with small bars, creative restaurants, curated cultural experiences and street art? Visitors to Perth can also look forward to unique wildlife encounters, strolls along vast scenic parks and afternoons spent exploring wine country. It’s all here, in this one sunny city, filled with friendly and welcoming people.

And with 19 stunning beaches within easy reach of the city, a relaxing oceanfront escape is never far away. While you’re there spend an evening at Cottesloe or City Beach and sip a cool drink or savour delicious local seafood while watching the spectacular Indian Ocean sunset.

For more information on Western Australia, click here. To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights to Australia, visit singaporeair.com.

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Why Barcelona is fast becoming the world’s cocktail capital

What do London’s Connaught Bar, Singapore’s Jigger & Pony and legendary Buenos Aires speakeasy Florería Atlántico have in common? Other than featuring in the top 10 of The World’s 50 Best Bars list, they all understand that in order to catch the eye of today’s discerning drinkers, you need an identity (and I’m not talking about putting a sparkler in a martini).  

Take Two Schmucks, for example. The charming, irreverent hangout in Barcelona’s El Raval neighbourhood has won acclaim for melding the fun-loving features of a dive bar (think happy hours, late-night cheese toasties and grungy decor) with a spectacularly inventive cocktail menu that could go toe-to-toe with any drinking den in the world. It’s a beguiling dichotomy that has put Two Schmucks in 11th place on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, as voted for last year by more than 650 drink aficionados.

Two Schmucks placed 11th on The World’s 50 Best Bars list. Photo credit: Two Schmucks

“It’s really pleasing for us to see so many different bars with completely varied identities getting to both the top of the list and entering into the list for the first time,” Mark Sansom, content director at The World’s 50 Best Bars, tells us. “It’s about what underlies that identity. It’s the skill of the drinks programme, the staff and their attitude toward each of their guests that makes a bar sing.” 

Since the world reopened after the pandemic, bars have been crooning louder than ever, though few cities have attracted the cocktail world’s spotlight quite like Barcelona. In recent years the Catalan capital has become one of the most exciting cities to order a drink in, and like an expletive mural on the wall, its blend of gastronomy, culture and nightlife has made a statement that’s impossible to ignore. So much so that on 4 October, Barcelona will become the first city outside of London to host The World’s 50 Best Bars Ceremony. With the event now in its 10th year, Mark says the time was nigh to shine the light on another cosmopolitan cocktail capital.

The entrance to Paradiso is hidden behind a retro fridge door in a pastrami shop. Photo credit: Paradiso

“Last year was the first time Barcelona had three bars on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, which is quite rare for a city outside of London, New York or Singapore. Everyone seems to congregate here because they love the city. [The locals] are open to global tastes and because they’re so used to varied gastronomical influences, they’re equally accepting of new cocktails and styles.”

Last year was the first time Barcelona had three bars on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, which is quite rare for a city outside of London, New York or Singapore

One of the many things that has distinguished Barcelona’s bar scene over the years is its relationship with gastronomy, and food continues to have an influence on the city’s drinking culture today. Indeed, hop from one bar to another and you’ll find it almost impossible to complete the journey without stopping by one of the infinite number of tapas spots for a plate of creamy croquetas or charred padron peppers. As a result, Barcelona’s most popular cocktails tend to be punctuated with savoury and bitter notes, which means you’ll never be far from an outstanding martini. And if you’re looking to enjoy this classic mix of vermouth and vodka (depending on how you enjoy it) on your next visit, the list’s three Catalonian venues are as good a place to start as any.

With showstopping cocktails throughout the menu and interiors that range from kick-back boozer to spaceage speakeasy, each bar proves yet again that having an identity can turn a good drinking experience into a great one. Take Paradiso, for example, which is sitting pretty at number three on the list. At first, you’re greeted by an old-fashioned pastrami bar, but swing open the retro fridge door and you’re suddenly inside an otherworldly watering hole, with curvaceous wooden beams and glowing menus that advertise the coldest martini on the planet. Then there’s Sips, a newcomer which entered the list for the first time last year at number 37 having won critics over for its elaborate glassware, refreshing takes on classic drinks and relaxing open plan layout.  Sandwiched between them both is Two Schmucks, the rough-around-the-edges locale everyone wants to end their night in.

SIPS is a Barcelona newcomer that made it onto the World’s 50 Best Bars list at number 37. Photo credit: SIPS

And they undoubtedly will when the world’s leading mixologists and drinks industry bigwigs come to Barcelona next month to see the unveiling of The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 hotlist. As new, rambunctious venues enter for the first time with a view to dislodging the heavy hitters at the top, it’ll be the ones with that magic ingredient that have the power to truly elevate their city’s cocktail culture. As Mark says: “A bar needs to find what it does well and really focus on that. Bars that don’t tend to fall by the wayside pretty quickly.” 

[sk_quiz]

What cocktails to order in Barcelona according to the experts

 

Paradiso

“For sure the Mediterranean Treasure, because of its surprising presentation. The cocktail is smoked with Mediterranean flavours and all the aromas come rushing out of a treasure box. The flavour is a mix of sea and land thanks to the unique oyster leaf and it’s served in a seashell shaped glass.” Giacomo Giannotti, owner, Paradiso.

The Mediterranean Treasure at Paradiso. Photo credit: Paradiso

Sips

“THE KRYPTA is a cocktail you can drink and inhale and is made with kiwi, gin and Armagnac. Meanwhile, the COMPRESSED is a mix of sherry with jasmine and peach flavours, while the MOSAIC is inspired by Barcelona’s most famous architect, Antoni Gaudí.” Simone Caporale, co-owner, Sips.

The Krypta at SIPS. Photo credit: SIPS

Two Schmucks

“The head bartender at Two Schmucks used to be a chef at a very high level so all the drinks on the current list are influenced by food. There’s a curry colada which is one of the best drinks I’ve ever had.” Mark Sansom, content director, The World’s 50 Best Bars.

The Negroni Blanc at Two Schmucks. Photo credit: Two Schmucks

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10 secret spots in Singapore that will surprise you

If you’re familiar with the tiny country of Singapore (which measures just 64km at its longest), it’s easy to assume that everything the Little Red Dot has to offer can be seen in just a few days. But behind unmarked doors, nondescript alleys and off the coast, you’ll find that Singapore still has plenty of secret spots to uncover. From secluded parks in the city to jungle-swathed hideaways and alleyway pizzerias, you’re bound to find something that inspires you to explore in this list.

1. Smith Marine Floating Kelong Restaurant

For a fresh seafood dinner out at sea, book your table (and a 15-minute return bumboat ride) at Smith Marine Floating Kelong Restaurant. A short stroll on the decks of this modern kelong (aquaculture farm) located off the north-eastern coast of Singapore lets you see how flower crabs, lobsters, sea bass, grouper and other seafood are farmed. You can even try fishing for your own dinner; the chefs will cook up your catch in a variety of styles. As the sun goes down, enjoy the sea breeze as you tuck into garlic lobster, sambal mussels, steamed squid and of course, Singapore’s signature chilli crab.

01’23’52″N – 103’57’42″E. Nearest ferry terminal: Changi Point Ferry Terminal

Tuck into remarkably fresh seafood at Smith Marine Floating Kelong Restaurant. Photo credit: Smith Marine Floating Kelong Restaurant

2. Bollywood Veggies

Occupying a sizeable plot of land in the sprawling Kranji Countryside is the organic farm bearing pineapples, bananas, starfruit, eggplants and more. Tour Bollywood Veggies’ farm, learn about local culinary history at the Food Museum, then tuck into a delicious meal featuring fresh produce at the fabulous farm-to-table Poison Ivy bistro. Don’t miss the Jackfruit Lemak stew, which features chunks of sweet fruit immersed in creamy coconut gravy. You can also learn how to whip up tantalising local dishes at the on-site cooking school.

100 Neo Tiew Road. Taxi recommended

Watch a video of what goes on at the Kranji countryside at the weekends…

3. Bincho @ Hua Bee

There are many secret spots in Singapore for a tipple, but there are none quite like this one. By day, bowls of bak chor mee (minced meat noodles) are tossed up in this 70-year-old kopitiam (coffee shop). It happens to be where local indie movie Mee Pok Man was shot. At night, Hua Bee’s modest little space in the hipster Tiong Bahru neighbourhood is transformed into an ultra-cool yakitori (grilled skewers) bar. Another surprise awaits in the back of the premises: a fashionably frowzy, dimly lit cocktail bar that resembles an underground bunker.

78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19. Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru

4. Pearl’s Hill City Park

Just behind the hustle and bustle of the Chinatown district lies this nine-hectare belt of greenery perched atop a 45m-tall knoll. Visitors must climb flights of stairs to get to the summit, where they’ll find the tranquil oasis of Pearl’s Hill City Park. This fortress-like structure was built in 1898 to supply drinking water to Chinatown, which it still does today. Along the way, relax under the shade of mature tembusu trees and breathe in the sweet perfume from the pink and white blooms of frangipani trees. On your way back down toward Eu Tong Sen Street, a little exploring will uncover more relics from colonial times – like a cannon sitting alongside a five-storey blue building. This is one of a pair of Neo-Classical-style conservation buildings built in 1935 – the Upper and Lower Barracks that once housed the Straits Settlements Police’s Sikh contingent.

Chin Swee Road. Nearest MRT: Outram Park, Chinatown

The tranquil oasis of Pearl’s Hill City Park. Photo credit: National Parks Board

5. Wessex Estate

Once home to British officers, this elegant enclave of black-and-white colonial buildings is where a community of local artists now live, muse and create. You can tour their studios at the annual ArtWalk@Wessex or make appointments with individual artists to have a gander around their workspaces at other times. While you’re in the neighbourhood, you can also check out Joyce Loo’s clay sculptures at JoyClay Studio & Gallery.

4 Woking Road. Nearest MRT: Commonwealth

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6. Gardenasia

A surprising sanctuary ensconced in the Kranji Countryside, Gardenasia comprises a farm, bistro and remodelled black-and-white British colonial villas spread over two hectares of picture-perfect greenery. A relaxing farmstay at one of the English-, oriental- or contemporary-style villas lets you step back in time, with their classic carved wooden furniture and exposed timber roof beams. Rustic at first glance, the interiors are fitted with luxurious marble-tiled bathrooms and modern audio-visual systems. Wander amid herb gardens and fruit trees, before tucking into dishes created with freshly harvested ingredients at Bistro by Gardenasia. Try their pan-roasted lamb to accompany salad with ingredients of your choice, washed down with farm-fresh roselle.

240 Neo Tiew Cres. Bus: 925m

Gardenasia’s charming villas. Photo credit: Gardenasia

7. Lloyd’s Inn

There’s a chic hidden oasis in a residential area just a stone’s throw from the bustling Orchard strip. With 34 minimalistic rooms attached to semi-outdoor bathrooms, this Lloyd’s Inn, which also has a dipping pool and a garden patio, has a distinct resort-like atmosphere. Its exposed concrete body lends the whole place a raw, industrial vibe.

2 Lloyd Road. Nearest MRT: Fort Canning

8. Ann Siang Hill Park

Even the heart of Singapore has secret spots that are easy to miss. The ever-hip Ann Siang area is known for its cool bars and eateries tucked inside heritage shophouses, but not many people have ambled through Ann Siang Hill Park. The lush trail begins at Telok Ayer Green and ends at Club Street, passing by historic landmarks such as Thian Hock Keng temple. Try to spot yellow rain, nutmeg and cinnamon trees along the meandering path.

78 Club Street. Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer

A narrow passage at Ann Siang Hill Park. Photo credit: National Parks Board

9. Proper Slice

Just a short walk from Ann Siang Hill Park lies another one of the neighbourhood’s secret spots that offers a rarity in Singapore – the humble New York-style pizza. Venture into the alleyway just at the bend of Gemmill Lane and you’ll find an unmarked steel door beneath a maroon awning. Enter, and you’ll be greeted by the enticing smell of freshly baked pizzas. The New York-style of pizza is distinguished by large slices, simple ingredients and a delightfully thin and floppy crust. In addition to pizza, other Italian-American staples are available like the garlic knots, stromboli (essentially a more portable pizza) and a sweet calzone filled with ricotta and hazelnuts.

110 Amoy Street, #01-02. Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer

One of the few places you can find a “Proper Slice” of New York-style pizza. Photo credit: Proper Slice

10. Kampong Lorong Buangkok

For a taste of life as it was in the ’60s (before the advent of multi-storey carparks and air-conditioned malls), head to Singapore’s last surviving kampung (village). Located off Gerald Drive in Yio Chu Kang, some 20 families live in this sleepy hamlet of zinc-roofed houses connected by dirt paths. Here, chickens roam freely amid gardens lined with chilli, lime and hibiscus plants.

Gerald Drive. Nearest MRT: Buangkok

– TEXT BY CARA YAP & MANDY LIM BEITLER

This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.

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6 things to know about the SQ Batik Wall at Changi Airport Terminal 3

The SQ Batik Wall in Singapore Changi Airport’s Terminal 3 is becoming one of the most popular selfie spots these days.

And with the rising number of travellers passing through Changi Airport for work or leisure trips – there were 8.9-million passengers in the first six months of 2022, or almost 10 times more than the previous period – this stunning façade is winning more and more fans who are no doubt intrigued by its exquisite, handcrafted glass flowers that are inspired by the Singapore Airlines Batik Motif.

Located within the departure transit area, to view this masterpiece in all its glory one should first clear immigration, before heading to the A1-A8 cluster gate and taking the escalator to the second floor.

Unveiled to the public in June 2022 after two-and-a-half years in the making, the SQ Batik Wall features glass flowers that are lit from inside, with each individual piece being one of a kind and assembled by hand. Here, we reveal the creative process behind the making of the SQ Batik Wall.

1. What is the SQ Batik Wall about?

The wall facade features 105 glass flowers and leaves. These flowers can be found in the current iteration of SIA’s Batik Motif, which features native flora from Singapore as a nod to the country’s status as a garden city. The rich art of batik has long been a source of inspiration for SIA, beginning in 1968 when it was first incorporated into the design of the Singapore Girl’s sarong kebaya uniform.

2. Who made this artwork?

The creative team behind this glass floral sculpture was led by award-winning Australian glass artist Barbara Jane Cowie, a Singapore resident since 2003. When not busy glass blowing, Cowie holds workshops at her Refind Studio within The Yards in Joo Chiat Place, Katong, in the eastern side of Singapore. She is also a KrisFlyer member and has always flown with Singapore Airlines – making this an incredibly special and uniquely challenging project for her.

Australian glass artist Barbara Jane Cowie worked on the project from start to finish; from the glass and metal making stages at her workshop to testing the lighting of the final set-up at the airport.

3. What can we see in this work?

The glass sculpture looks as if it is floating from a curved metal wall that has been painted in SIA’s iconic blue. Eight branch clusters showcase 12 types of flowers that are native to Singapore, in different sizes and shapes, and surrounded by leaves. The wall is about 13m wide (almost the tail height of a Boeing 777) and 3.7m high, and weighs just under a tonne (similar to a grand piano).

A mix of signature glass, metal and art techniques were employed to make the SQ Batik Wall. Designs were created with numerous layers of glass, waterjet cut and fired in a kiln thrice for over 72 hours.

4. How do we identify the flowers?

If you go by quantity, the easiest to spot among the featured flowers is the Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus parvifolius), as there are 13 of them in varying sizes. If you go by colour, perhaps the Seashore Purlane (Portulaca pilosa) is most striking because its five dark-red sepals (petal-like formations) are large and a stark contrast to the blue background; there are nine of these. If you want a challenge, try to look for the Malayan Ixora (Ixora congesta) with four petals – there are eight of them. For this project, the artist Cowie spent plenty of time in nature, studying the foliage and flora.

The flowers that make up the SIA Batik Motif are the key elements to the intricate design of the SQ Batik Wall. The blue Aquatic Ginger (left) is the biggest flower, weighing at 15kg.

5. What else makes up SQBatikWall?

Apart from glass, the floral sculpture uses metal for the canvas and branches, and LED lighting to illuminate the flowers. All the metal components were laser-cut to be the exact size. Once the pieces were cut, they were hand curved to form the branches. The metal boxes that contain the light and the glass flowers were formed by hand. Since the artist wanted the sculpture to look like it was floating in mid-air and did not want to see big bolts, glue or exposed wires, she used fixtures and fittings that were designed and made specially for the project.

Apart from glass, the floral sculpture uses stainless steel metal components to securely hold the glass flowers and lighting that illuminates the flowers.

6. How long did it take to finish the work?

This was a two-and-a-half year adventure for the artist Cowie: a year-and-a-half devoted to researching, sampling and developing ideas; and another year to making the glass sculptures, with at least 100 kiln firings to get the colours right and create the initial prototypes.

The artist was given a design based on SIA’s Batik Motif and tasked to faithfully reproduce this 2D design into a three-dimensional glass sculpture.­ Cowie spent 120 days nonstop to make the glass flowers (not one of them is the same); firing the kiln for 20 hours each day – each kiln firing taking about three to five hours to prepare and load – and doing it all over again if the piece is not perfect. With a small team of roughly 15 people to complete the project, Cowie believes that the number of people involved is not important, as long as they are passionate and committed to the craft and prepared to do their best to create the artwork.

Once all the moveable parts were ready, it took two months to complete the wiring, 15 hours to mount the branches, another six weeks to install the glass flowers, leaves and LED light panels. Installation at Changi Airport began in February 2022 and it was unveiled to the public in June, now seen as one of the most popular spots for selfie shots.

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Where to try mod-Sin cuisine in Singapore

When Singaporean food is mentioned, it’s usually humble hawker fare that comes to mind. If you’re fond of local flavours but want to experience them in a completely different way, mod-Sin cuisine might be just what you’re looking for. This contemporary take on Singaporean food sees local chefs experiment with reimagined and deconstructed local dishes while keeping its unique flavours. From pasta and burgers to Singapore-style ramen, here’s our list of the best mod-Sin restaurants to try these intriguing dishes.

1. Xiao Ya Tou

The colourful and delightfully kitschy Xiao Ya Tou certainly stands out among its neighbours in the hip Duxton Hill stretch. Its name, which translates to “little rebel”, is certainly apt as far as its menu is concerned. Here you can expect elevated takes on uniquely Singaporean dishes like lobster kueh pie tee, wok-fried wagyu hor fun and truffle duck fried rice making an appearance. If you’re here for drinks and need a couple of light bites, spring for the Angus beef satay or the moreish crispy otak-otak rolls – a specialty here. Vegetarians will also be pleased to know there’s a dedicated meat-free menu with Singapore-inspired dishes like veggie ngoh hiang, beancurd chips with mala mayo and mushroom dumplings stuffed with Impossible pork, turnip, mushrooms and cabbage.

6 Duxton Hill. Nearest MRT: Outram Park, Tanjong Pagar

The truffle duck at Xiao Ya Tou. Photo credit: Xiao Ya Tou

2. Relish by Wild Rocket

It was at Wild Rocket that self-taught chef Willin Low first codified mod-Sin cuisine in 2005. “Twelve years ago, nobody knew what to call the food I was creating at Wild Rocket which was why we coined the label. Since then, mod-Sin has grown.” And despite the closure of the original Wild Rocket, chef Low continues his mod-Sin adventures with Relish by Wild Rocket which has been open since 2006. While it started as a burger restaurant, Relish now serves a varied selection of pastas, brunch items and sharing plates with Singaporean inflections. The roketto oyster omelette spaghettini for example, deconstructs the classic hawker dish and reimagines it as a spicy pasta. There’s also a fish collagen broth udon that draws inspiration from Singapore-style fish soup but is gussied up with premium ingredients like hand-cut inaniwa udon and handmade egg fishcake.

Multiple locations

3. A Noodle Story

Founded by “hawkerpreneurs” Gwern Khoo and Ben Tham, A Noodle Story is one of Singapore’s pioneering modern hawker stalls and a recipient of the coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand award. The dish that put them on the map is the “first and only Singapore-style ramen”, which takes cues from wanton noodles, a local favourite. The dish comprises of thin, springy noodles that are tossed with a blend of dark soya sauce and roasted dried shrimps which keep the dish’s flavour profile familiar. Rather than conventional char siew, the dish is topped with slices of pork belly chashu that have been slow-braised for 36 hours. The silky pork and prawn wantons are also made fresh daily. Where things get unconventional is the addition of an onsen egg and a prawn cake wrapped in strings of crispy Idaho potato.

7 Wallich Street, B2-32, Guoco Tower. Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar

A Noodle Story’s Singapore-style ramen. Photo credit: A Noodle Story

4. Labyrinth

This one-star Michelin restaurant is a modern Singaporean thoroughbred – for starters, it is located at the Esplanade – Theatres by the Bay, itself an icon of modern Singapore. Chef-owner Han Li Guang founded Labyrinth to showcase local Singaporean flavours and cultures while encapsulating his roots and memories growing up in Singapore. “The modernisation of local flavours cannot come at the expense of its authenticity,” the banker-turned-chef says, “And I strongly believe that the future of local cuisine lies in our past.” The 2022 dinner tasting menu, “Memories of Chomp Chomp Hawker Centre” features chef-owner LG Han’s take on local favourites like rojak, chicken rice, char kway teow and bak kut teh.

8 Raffles Avenue, #02-23 Esplanade Mall. Nearest MRT: Esplanade

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5. Po

Set in the hip boutique Warehouse Hotel, Po is a nod to both the cuisine of Singapore’s yesteryears and the fare that you’d find at your generous grandmother’s. It should be expected, then, that the approach to Singaporean food at Po is more on the classic and conservative side of mod-Sin, although the cuisine’s defining twist is still present, mostly in the use of elevated ingredients. The giant river prawns konbu mee, an elevated take on Hokkien mee, perfectly encapsulates this philosophy with its use of premium ingredients.

320 Havelock Road, Level 1, The Warehouse Hotel. Nearest MRT: Fort Canning

The giant river prawns konbu mee at Po. Photo credit: Po

– ORIGINAL TEXT BY CELINE ASRIL

This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.

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Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore

With a central location in the heart of Singapore’s Business District, Dao by Dorsett places you right where the action is. Just a short walk away is the artsy neighbourhood of Tanjong Pagar where you’ll find hip cafes, award-winning speakeasies and even a Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant like The Blue Ginger. Of course, you’re also near some of Singapore’s most iconic hawker centres like Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Food Centre. For further explorations, Downtown and Telok Ayer MRT stations are both less than 10 minutes away.

While there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding neighbourhood, you’ll want to spend some time enjoying all the comforts the hotel has to offer. The spacious apartments and suites come replete with amenities including a kitchenette, living and dining space and an ensuite rain shower. There’s also an infinity pool and a 24-hour gym on the seventh floor so you can keep up with your fitness goals. And for days where you’d rather just stay in, you can always dine at Collective, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant which features an extensive international menu.

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Where to get mouth-watering Peranakan food in Singapore

Peranakan cuisine – which marries primarily Chinese, Malaysian and Indonesian culinary influences – offers a veritable feast of rich flavours, aromatic spices and fresh herbs that make for a thoroughly satisfying meal. Also known as Nyonya food, it originates from the descendants of migrants from China who settled around the Malay Peninsula and Indonesian Archipelago – Singapore, Penang and Malacca in particular – between the 15th and 17th centuries. Whether you’re in the mood for no-nonsense, homestyle fare or want to experience a contemporary take on traditional dishes, we’ve got you covered with our list of top-notch establishments to indulge in sumptuous Peranakan food in Singapore.

1. Rempapa

Rempapa, opened in August 2021, is a Singapore heritage restaurant that presents a multi-ethnic menu of Peranakan, Chinese, Indian, Malay and Eurasian dishes. Helmed by chef Damian D’Silva, who’s known as the “grandfather of Singapore heritage cuisine”, the restaurant’s must-try Peranakan dishes include nostalgic classics like baca Assam and babi pongteh. Other standouts include singgang, a classic Eurasian dish that comprises of painstakingly deboned fish that’s been cooked in a paste of fresh chillies, turmeric, galangal, lemongrass, shallots and candlenuts. Alongside these requisites, you’ll also find contemporary creations with heritage flavours like the buah keluak fried rice, made with a fresh sambal paste, minced pork and the rich savoury “meat” of the buah keluak nut.

2 Paya Lebar Road, #01-01/02/03, Park Place Residences at PLQ. Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar

Baca Assam at Rempapa. Photo credit: Rempapa

1. Candlenut

Boasting the title of the world’s first Michelin-starred Peranakan culinary establishment, Candlenut is your go-to for a contemporary take on the centuries-old cuisine. Treat yourself by splurging on chef Malcolm Lee’s “Taste of Candlenut” seasonal tasting menu – available during both lunch and dinner services – through which he explores the myriad flavours of his heritage. The current dinner option for September 2022 features offerings such as beef kapitan curry (Margaret River beef cheek slow-cooked in curry sauce with candlenuts, fried shallots and makrut lime); ikan chuan chuan (Kühlbarra barramundi cooked in a fermented soybean paste); and a ginger cake to finish.

17A Dempsey Road. Buses: 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123, 174

A feast of dishes at Candlenut

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2. Charlie’s Peranakan Food

With Golden Mile Food Centre recently reopening after a long renovation exercise, customers are once again able to tuck into Charlie’s Peranakan Food’s humble yet hearty fare. The cult-favourite basement hawker stall, which often draws long queues, plates up affordable Peranakan dishes that taste almost as good as your grandmother’s cooking. We recommend the nangka masak lemak (jackfruit curry), babi pongteh (stewed pork with mushrooms and bamboo shoots) and gulai tumis (tamarind fish curry) with a side of rice to mop up all of that delicious gravy.

505 Beach Road, #B1-30, Golden Mile Food Centre. Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway

3. Godmama

Stuck in the CBD and craving Peranakan food? Make your way to the centrally located Godmama. Occupying a fourth-floor space at shopping mall Funan, the outlet’s contemporary minimalist-chic interior mirrors the ubiquitous café aesthetic to a tee. Dine on casual and comforting renditions of Nyonya favourites, including chap chye (mixed braised vegetables); babi Assam (stewed Assam pork); ikan masak nanas (grilled barramundi cooked in a tamarind stew with pineapple) and ayam buah keluak (chicken and black nut stew). Godmama also offers a range of Peranakan-inspired cocktails to go along with your meal. Try the heady “Bunga Kantan Martini”: bourbon mixed with tamarind and lemon juice and shaken with egg white for a velvety texture.

107 North Bridge Road, #04-07, Funan. Nearest MRT: City Hall

Rice and assorted vegetable dishes from Godmama

4. Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen

Located in the colourful heritage area of Joo Chiat – arguably the city-state’s main enclave for Peranakan culture – Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen is a casual, no-frills outlet that serves authentic Nyonya delights at prices that won’t break the bank. It’s Halal-certified and purports to use only the freshest ingredients to make its dishes. A must-try is the grilled sambal barramundi, in which the deep-sea fish is smothered in a mouth-watering sambal relish and topped with fresh herbs and thin slices of lime. Other moreish options include the signature beef rendang, which features succulent beef chunks braised in a myriad of spices until tender; and kang kong stir-fried in a classic garlic or sambal sauce.

328 Joo Chiat Road, #01-02. Buses: 33, 33B

Old Bibik’s Peranakan Kitchen does a mean Grilled Sambal Barramundi

5. The Blue Ginger

The Blue Ginger has been a crowd favourite since first opening its doors in 1995. Today, the Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient boasts two outpost: one at Tanjong Pagar, which is situated in a gorgeous three-storey restored shophouse, and the other at the buzzy Great World shopping centre. At the cosy Tanjong Pagar location, which is perfect for an intimate date night, you can choose from a selection of well-executed Peranakan favourites: including pork ribs Assam (braised pork ribs in a tamarind sauce); hee peow soup (fish maw, fish and prawn balls and cabbage in a clear broth); and ngo hiang (fried minced pork and prawn roll).

97 Tanjong Pagar Road. Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar

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6. Tingkat PeraMakan

This restaurant derives its moniker from tingkats – layered containers that Peranakan mothers of yore would use to ferry home-cooked meals to a loved one at work or at school. Run by founder, chef and fourth-generation Nyonya Kathryn Ho, Tingkat PeraMakan applies a similar nurturing and homey ethos to its cooking. Diners can expect down-to-earth favourites redolent of nostalgic and familiar flavours. You can order a set option, which includes a main, two sides, a drink and a dessert. Our pick for a main is the signature ayam buak keluak, in which the chicken is braised until tender in a sauce of garam assam and Indonesian black nut pulp. And for dessert, durian fiends will delight in the durian pengat: a rich and velvety durian mousse.

Multiple locations

Ayam Buah Keluak and assorted trimmings from Tingkat PeraMakan

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7. Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant

Another Joo Chiat stalwart, Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant has been serving comforting Peranakan plates since 1953, making it one of Singapore’s oldest spots for Nyonya cuisine. To add to its claim to fame, it was also reportedly the Peranakan joint of choice for the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Feast on traditional dishes such as Ayam Buah Keluak (stewed chicken in gravy), babi pongteh (braised pork), Nyonya chap chye (braised vegetables) and sayor lodeh (vegetable stew). The decor may be nothing to write home about, but the Peranakan food here definitely hits the spot.

200 Joo Chiat Road. Buses: 33, 33B

Nyonya Chap Chye from Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant. Photo credit: Guan Hoe Soon

Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours before visiting and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about.

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The story of modern-day Singapore, told through batik

Produced by SilverKris for Asian Civilisations Museum

Where in Singapore can you find history enthusiasts, heritage fans and fashion lovers all under one roof? The Asian Civilisations Museum, of course. Singapore’s national museum of Asian antiquities and decorative arts is hosting an expansive retrospective on batik. Batik Kita: Dressing in Port Cities explores the region’s longstanding relationship with this UNESCO-recognised craft. Visitors can expect to marvel at more than 100 pieces of batik, including rarely seen pieces from Singapore’s National Collection.

Why is this exhibition so significant? Because batik is far more than just a gorgeous textile craft. The wax-resist dying technique is intertwined with the histories, identities and cultures of maritime Southeast Asia. Originating in the Javanese courts of the 1600s, batik has over the centuries crossed and recrossed the seas to Malaysia, Brunei, parts of Thailand and Singapore.

Batik Kita: Dressing in Port Cities is an exciting, expansive homage to the role of batik in maritime Southeast Asia, on view at the Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore

Singapore’s special relationship with batik

And that’s not all. The exhibition also pays homage to the very special role Singapore has played in the spread of batik across the region and the world. The primary regional entrepot before World War 2, Singapore historically received millions of rolls of batik that were then exported to the rest of the world. This relationship with batik has continued well into the 21^st-century, as a symbol of cultural identity during rapid modernisation, a diplomatic tool and as the inspiration for contemporary fashion.

Batik Kita at Asian Civilisations Museum explores all this and more through a variety of gorgeous exhibits. From rarely seen artefacts to contemporary fashion statements, the show offers visual delights for style mavens and history-lovers alike.

Batik in Singapore: A journey through the decades

To trace the intertwined history of Singapore and batik, start with the spectacular century-old dodot, an unmissable highlight of the exhibition. A ceremonial waist cloth made in Yogyakarta and worn by Javanese sultans, the dodot features a white lozenge-shaped tengah in the centre, symbolising the ruler’s spiritual purity and his importance during ceremonies.

But that’s not the dodot’s only claim to fame. The piece was also one of the first to arrive almost a century ago at the Raffles Library and Museum – its story tied up inextricably with one of the city-state’s earliest public institutions.

A highlight of the exhibition, this century-old Javanese dodot (ceremonial waist cloth) was first on show at the Raffles Library & Museum, a precursor to Singapore’s present-day cultural institutions

Batik in the workplace – and in the sky

From the dodot of the 1920s, the exhibition traces the transformation of batik in recent decades. Many pieces on display are sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia among local visitors – with designs that were possibly worn by their own parents and grandparents.

Check out the sarong kebaya suit – a two piece garment made from the same batik – by by Anthony Tan, Max Tan and Claire Leong from the Faculty of Fashion Design at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA). Representing a modern approach to batik, the piece encapsulates the generation of Singaporean women who were entering the workforce in the ’60s and ’70s.

Explaining the significance of the piece, exhibition curator Lee Chor Lin says, “This was what many Singapore women wore to work. The suit gave them a sense of workspace seriousness, as a business suit does, but underpinning it with a precious identity statement.”

Of course, no exploration of batik and Singaporean identity would be complete without a celebration of the iconic Singapore Girl sarong kebaya. The exhibition pays due homage to the Singapore Airlines uniform, designed by Pierre Balmain in 1966 and commissioned by the then–Malayan Airways. The iconic garment that has remained more or less unchanged over the decades. “Balmain created an industrially printed fabric to simulate batik and reform the sarong kebaya kota baru silhouette,” Lee explains, referring to a style first popularized in the city of Kota Bharu. “[This included] rounding the collar, trimming the sleeves and reinforcing the spirit of optimism of 1960s. It was a very new way to design a uniform for a national carrier.”

This silk batik shirt (right) was made by famed Indonesian fashion designer Iwan Tirta and worn by Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong at the 1994 APEC conference in Bogor, Indonesia

Batik in politics and fashion

From business offices to national carriers, batik has made its mark on the highest echelons of international politics. The Batik Kita exhibition features several batik garments famously worn by political figures from Southeast Asia. Take, for instance, the elegant silk batik shirt designed by famed Indonesian fashion designer Iwan Tirta. It was worn by Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong at the 1994 APEC conference in Bogor, Indonesia, where he was one of many delegates to sport Irwan Tirta batik shirts.

Exhibition visitors will also see the red-and-white number batiked by Singapore Cultural Medallion recipient Sarkasi Said and worn by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the 2019 National Day Parade – a sartorial statement that underscores the timelessness of batik. “Particularly in Southeast Asia, batik has evolved to become a reflection of identity and island-solidarity,” says Lee. “It has become a way to bring together counterparts from the region, whether it is in business, politics, or leisure.”

Perhaps the most striking pieces on display at Batik Kita are the contemporary outfits by today’s Singaporean fashion labels. Baju by Oniatta and Tong Tong Friendship Store are two such names, introducing batik to surprising silhouettes that bring together multi-cultural sensibilities. The former reinterprets the traditional Malay and Javanese garments and forms with elements of Japanese designs, while the latter employs batik for Chinese silhouettes such as the cheongsam. Together, these outfits lovingly trace batik’s continued relevance in Singapore today.

Singapore’s contemporary fashion designers bring bold new silhouettes and multicultural sensibilities to batik garments

Hands-on batik activities at Asian Civilisations Museum

When you’re done exploring Singapore’s close relationship with batik, try an immersive activity. Visitors should visit The Batik Workshop at Level 2 Foyer of the museum, where they can admire various physical tools used to make batik, learn how batik is patterned and dyed and even have a go at designing a batik cap and Those visiting the museum with children – aged 7 and above – can hop onto the Batik Activity Trail, a family-friendly trail that explores batik patterns and fashion. The trail is available in English or Malay, both online and onsite.

Batik Kita: Dressing in Port Cities runs until 2 October 2022 at the Asian Civilisations Museum, Singapore’s national museum of Asian antiquities and decorative arts. Nestled on the banks of the Singapore River, the Asian Civilisations Museum is the only museum in Asia that champions art through a pan-Asian lens. The museum has been highly lauded for its outstanding collection of masterpieces and steady roster of ground-breaking special exhibitions since its opening in 1997.

Asian Civilisations Museum is open daily from 10am to 7pm (to 9pm on Friday). Tickets begin S$12 for Singaporeans and PRs. For more information, please visit the official website. All images courtesy of Asian Civilisations Museum.

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9 enjoyable hiking trails to explore in Singapore

Amidst Singapore’s towering skyscrapers, glitzy shopping malls and bustling hawker centres lie pockets of untamed nature that show off the city state’s wilder side. If you need a break from the urban sprawl, these rugged hiking trails in Singapore will be a breath of fresh air. And with a variety of lengths and difficulty levels, there’s something for everyone.

1. MacRitchie Reservoir

MacRitchie Reservoir is a popular hiking trail among nature lovers in Singapore looking to escape the bustle of city living. This 11km-long nature trail located within the tropical rainforest of Central Catchment Nature Reserve will take you through a variety of scenic landscapes, and you might even encounter wildlife such as long-tailed macaque monkeys, monitor lizards, colugos (flying lemurs) and owls. Its highlight is a gorgeous emerald lake surrounded by tall and lush trees. Another draw is the MacRitchie Treetop Walk that offers a magnificent bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy.

Wooden boardwalks line the lake at MacRitchie Reservoir Singapore. Photo credit: ChanoknanH/Shutterstock.com

2. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve was established in 1883 and is one of the first forest reserves created in Singapore. This trail boasts one of the richest ecological systems within the country and is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Hiking along the trails, you might encounter towering dipterocarps (a species of lowland rainforest tree), reminders of World War II history and thorny rattan trees. It is also where you can find Singapore’s highest geographical point, Bukit Timah Hill, which stands at 163 metres. With numerous different routes to choose from, you can decide for yourself what kind of scenery you want to view on the way to the peak.

A walkway through the tropical ferns and trees of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Photo credit: N8Allen/Shutterstock.com

3. Pulau Ubin

If you’re in search for adventure off the mainland, Pulau Ubin is just the destination for you. The thickly forested island is home to one of Singapore’s last few kampungs (villages) and is minimally developed. To get there, head to Changi Point Ferry Terminal where you can hop on a bumboat and take a short 15-minute ride to the island’s village. Once you’re there, follow the paved road to the Chek Jawa Wetlands, another example of Singapore’s remarkably biodiverse ecosystems. The route, about 3km from the public jetty at Pulau Ubin, passes the former Headman’s House and the Ubin Fruit Orchard where you might spot monkeys swinging in the trees. There’s very little shade accompanying the trail but the breathtaking view of the sea and salty breeze is worth it. When the low tide comes, hikers can get a glimpse of the marine life in the intertidal pools. Over at Chek Jawa Wetlands, explore the area via the 1km long boardwalk and climb up the 20m Jejawi Tower for a better view.

The Chek Jawa Broadwalk Jetty offers stunning coastal views. Photo credit: Cleop6atra/Shutterstock.com

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4. Dairy Farm Nature Park

Near the Dairy Farm MRT station (Downtown Line) is the 75-hectare Dairy Farm Nature Park which features many hiking routes of varying difficulty levels. Visit the permanent exhibition along the rustic trail called the Wallace Education Centre, named after English naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, to learn about his contributions to natural science and the biogeography and biodiversity in the region. The nature park offers a relatively easy 2.2km trail besides the occasional steep ascends.

The quarry at the Dairy Farm Nature Park. Photo credit: Dennis Lim/Shutterstock.com

5. Sungei Buluh Wetland Reserve

If you have a passion for wildlife, and birdwatching in particular, Sungei Buluh Wetland Reserve should be the top of your list for hiking trails in Singapore. There are several trails that circumnavigate the park, each dotted with strategically placed observation hides (pack your binoculars!) where you can observe over 220 species of native and migratory birds like the Eurasian Whimbrel and Mongolian Plover. Closer to the ground, you’ll also spot other critters like monitor lizards, saltwater crocodiles and mudskippers. Sungei Buluh is rather remote, so driving or taking a taxi is recommended.

6. Southern Ridges

This hiking trail boasts a scenic route that bridges modern architecture and Mother Nature. Travelling along the Southern Ridges will take you to Henderson Waves, the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore which connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. It’s one to marvel at, thanks to its artistic, distinctive wave-like structure consisting of a series of undulating curved “ribs”. Other highlights of this hiking trail include the Forest Walk and Canopy Walk where visitors can view the tree tops.

Part of the Southern Ridges, a 10-kilometre trail that connects parks along the Southern ridge of Singapore. Photo credit: Filipe.Lopes/Shutterstock.com

7. Punggol Promenade Nature Park

Fancy a slow trek by the sea? Punggol Promenade Nature Park is the place to be for quiet strolls and scenic sights. This 2.4km-long walking trail is popular among anglers and marine enthusiasts because of its multiple fishing platforms. On the other end of the park is Pulau Serangoon, better known as Coney Island. Trekkers can access the island by reaching the end of the trail and crossing over to the road connecting the Nature Park to Coney Island’s West entrance.

Punggol Promenade Nature Walk’s pathway leads towards the West Entrance of Coney Island. Photo credit: BlueSparks/shutterstock.com

8. Labrador Nature Reserve

Labrador Nature Reserve is a section within the Southern Ridges that overlooks the South China Sea and Southern Islands. There are two routes you can take for the Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk, both of which are moderately challenging and can take around three hours. Your walk will take you through a wide variety of habitats from mudflats and mangroves to coastal forests and rocky shores. Along the way, you’ll get to admire the reserve’s rich biodiversity and take in scenic views of Keppel Harbour, the lush greenery of Bukit Chermin hill, and the distant rocky cliffs of Sentosa. History buffs can also discover relics left behind from World War II at the nature reserve, such as tunnels, a fort and a pill box.

Take in the gorgeous sunset at Labrador Park. Photo credit: huntergol hp/Shutterstock.com

9. Rail Corridor

After the closure of the Keretapi Tanah Melayu railway in 2011, the Nature Society and Urban Redevelopment Authority embarked on a project to convert the train route into a linear park that has become a popular long distance hiking trail in Singapore. The first phase of the project was completed in 2019 and future stretches are expected to be opened between 2022 and 2024. Currently, the Rail Corridor runs 24km long, connecting Spooner Road to the Villa Verde Park Connector. While its full distance might seem imposing, there are plenty of entry and exit points so you can easily retreat to more urban settings for coffee or a meal. What’s unique about this park is that it’s also a continuous green passage that allows native fauna to move between forested areas. Keep your voice down and your eyes open and you might spot rare wildlife like the critically endangered Sunda Pangolin.

Please check the establishments’ respective websites for opening hours before visiting, and remember to adhere to safe-distancing measures while out and about.

This article was originally published in the July 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine and updated on 23 March 2021.

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