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Kuala Lumpur is a city of contrasts. One minute you could be devouring dry-aged steak at a rooftop restaurant, and the next you could be eating nasi lemak beneath a ramshackle stall in a nearby Malay village. It’s this variety that makes the city one of the most vibrant and characterful in the region. Here are some ways you can spend 48 hours in Kuala Lumpur.
Day 1
8am – Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve
Kick off your morning with some fresh air at Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve (aka KL Forest Eco Park), the last-standing patch of rainforest in the city centre. Walk along a 20m suspension bridge, learn about native Malaysian plant species and spot silvered leaf monkeys swinging across tree branches.
Start your day with a rejuvenating walk at KL Forest Eco Park. Photo: Unsplash
10am – Dang Wangi
After a long morning of walking, load up on coffee, toast and noodles at Kuala Lumpur’s oldest kopitiam (coffee shop), Yut Kee. This pre-independence Hainanese institution is known for its kaya toast and thick, inky black coffee. You won’t go far wrong with a slab of marble cake on the side. Then, take a short stroll to Jalan Doraisamy and browse locally made handicrafts and batik at Batik Boutique and Shades.
1pm – M Marini Grand Caffè & Terrazza
Treat yourself to a cheeky daytime glass of champagne at M Marini Grand Caffè & Terrazza, where local flavours exist in tandem with modern Italian food. Choose from a range of salads, pasta, pizza and meaty main courses that come with mango, avocado and prawn salad; aglio olio in lobster bisque; and Wagyu beef cheek with truffled mash and jus. Or pick from local favourites like kampung fried rice and curry laksa. Whatever you do, make sure to start your meal with the restaurant’s premium selection of beluga and oscietra caviar – you’re on holiday, after all.
Tuck into delicious fusion nosh at M Marini Grand Caffè & Terrazza, which marries local flavours with modern Italian food. Photo: M Marini Grand Caffè & Terrazza
7pm – Marble8
Head to Marble8 – arguably the best steak restaurant in Kuala Lumpur – for a romantic dinner paired with a panoramic view of the city. The Michelin-recommended restaurant treats its meat a cut above the rest by dry-ageing it for a minimum of 21 days in a temperature-controlled cellar containing slabs of pink Himalayan rock salt. The result is some of the best steaks you’ll eat across a range of cuts including ribeye, sirloin, tenderloin or tomahawk if you’re dining with a crowd.
Book a table at Marble8 for arguably the best steaks in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: Marble8
10pm – MARISTAR
To up the luxe, end your night at Maristar, a fashion-forward lounge where cocktails and caviar abound. Whether you’re sipping on an aged single malt or a colourful signature cocktail, this is certainly the place to be if you want to rub shoulders with the city’s most affluent.
Day 2
8am – Kampung Baru
Start your day afresh with what is largely considered to be Malaysia’s national breakfast – nasi lemak. And there’s no better place for it than Nasi Lemak Wanjo, where each rice grain is impeccably steamed and fragranced with fresh coconut milk. As a bonus, explore the surrounding Kampung Baru area which houses the city’s only remaining village flanked by wooden stilt houses and banana palm trees. Juxtaposed against the Petronas Twin Towers gleaming in the not-so-far distance, Kampung Baru is an excellent respite from the bustle of the city.
No trip to the city is complete without a fragrant plate of nasi lemak. Photo: Unsplash
11am – Islamic Arts Museum
The Islamic Arts Museum is a treasure trove of artefacts from the Islamic world dating back as far as 1,400 years ago. The 12 permanent galleries housed in the building cover such areas as architecture, textiles, manuscripts, armour and ceramics.
Once you’ve soaked up knowledge of ancient Islamic art, take a short drive to The Zhongshan Building for a different kind of art scene – one that is more emblematic of the young, creative talent in Kuala Lumpur. While you’re at it, explore the myriad speciality stores in the building including Ana Tomy, an artisanal stationery and gift shop.
The Islamic Art Museum of Malaysia (IAMM). Photo: IAMM
3pm – Rest and retreat
Since it’s your final full day in the city, it’s only fitting that you wind down with a luxury massage at Lax. Retreat, a modern self-care parlour offering body, nail and facial services to melt your worries away. Whether you opt for the traditional lulur (“coat one’s skin”) massage or the Nusantara- (Indonesia) inspired treatment, you’ll be sure to leave feeling revitalised.
7pm – Unbeatable views at Marini’s on 57
End your trip with a bang at Marini’s on 57, the best place in town for an unadulterated view of the Petronas Twin Towers. But it’s not just the view you’ll be savouring; the rooftop Italian restaurant serves an array of tantalising items such as home-made tagliatelle with truffle sauce, cotoletta alla milanese (veal) and gratin of live Boston lobster.
Wash it all down with an artisanal gin at MariGin, a gin parlour housing 57-plus varieties of gin from around the world: a classy way to end a classy trip.
Marini’s on 57 boasts the closest rooftop views of the Petronas Twin Towers. Photo: Marini’s on 57
Discover incredible dining experiences in KL with The Marini’s Group. Visit their website to find out more.
A freshly inked Memorandum of Understanding between Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group, Singapore’s Public Service Division (PSD) and Ministry of Health (MOH) formalises a trilateral commitment to collaborate on manpower planning in the event of future nationwide crises.
To kick this off, cabin crew volunteers from SIA and Scoot will undergo a five-day training programme with MOH’s healthcare volunteer corps to equip them with patient care skills. They will then volunteer with Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and Changi General Hospital from April 2024.
“It is a joy to be able to bring a smile to our passengers and patients alike,” says Vernetta Yeong, an SIA cabin crew member who has volunteered to be part of this programme.
A collaboration born from the Covid-19 pandemic
When Covid-19 swept across the world and global travel came to a standstill back in 2020, chills of uncertainty swept through the ranks of Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) cabin crew. Many flights were grounded, leaving crew members with much-reduced shifts and impacted livelihoods. At the same time, healthcare institutions were facing a sore need of manpower.
“It is a joy to be able to bring a smile to our passengers and patients alike”
In response to this situation, the SIA Group created an ambassador programme in partnership with MOH and PSD, redeploying 2,000 airline staff to the frontlines of needful public sector organisations and healthcare institutions. As part of this programme, more than 900 cabin crew took on the role of Care Ambassadors, helping with a variety of crucial duties such as care-giving and patient management.
SIA’s Care Ambassadors volunteering at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital during Covid-19. Photo credit: Khoo Teck Puat Hospital
Flight stewardess Vernetta Yeong describes her time as a Care Ambassador as one of the most pivotal moments in her life
Flight stewardess Yeong had been a part of this programme back then, volunteering at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital. “One of my patients had trouble speaking due to an existing condition. He was quite reserved and took time to open up to the nurses.” she says. “I was overjoyed when he finally became more comfortable with having me around and mouthed a few words.”
She fondly recalls her time as a Care Ambassador as one of the most pivotal moments in her life. It’s these warm memories that led Yeong to decide to reprise her role in this kickoff of the newly formalised peacetime SIA Group Ambassador programme.
Service from the heart, whether in wards or in-flight
Chelsea Ng is another flight stewardess who volunteered with the Care Ambassador programme during the pandemic. For eight months, she assisted the nurses at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital in basic care procedures.
“My biggest learning from this experience is to be more understanding towards every individual,” she recalls. “It has helped me to recognise and actively look out for the needs of the people I’m taking care of. With this, I hope to provide better support and a positive experience for my passengers.”
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by SIA CEO Mr Goh Choon Phong, Permanent Secretary (Development) of PSD Ms Teoh Zsin Woon and Permanent Secretary of MOH Mr Chan Yeng Kit on 15 Jan 2024. Photo: Singapore Airlines
A partnership that prepares Singapore for future national emergencies
While life has largely resumed normalcy, the value that the Care Ambassador programme has brought to both healthcare professionals and patients is clear.
“The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of a coordinated crisis response across the public, private and people sectors,” says Teoh Zsin Woon, Permanent Secretary (Development), PSD. “This memorandum signifies a proactive step towards fortifying our collective response to future crises for a more resilient Singapore.”
“This memorandum signifies a proactive step towards fortifying our collective response to future crises for a more resilient Singapore”
“SIA is renowned for their customer service. I am sure our patients will benefit greatly from the Care Ambassadors who willingly volunteer their time with us,” adds Chan Yeng Kit, Permanent Secretary of Health. “I am also confident that the cross sharing of best practices between SIA and our healthcare institutions will uplift patient care towards more effective interpersonal communication and customer handling skills.”
Both Yeong and Ng look forward to continuing their roles as Care Ambassadors, as they believe it has taught them skills that they can bring back to the cabin.
“It is my honour to deliver the SIA service 35,000 feet in the air and on the ground,” says Ng. “We hope that our presence makes a difference to our patients and healthcare partners, and is a rewarding experience for all.”
With Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) Kris+ lifestyle rewards app, your dollar goes further – and so will you. Earn and redeem miles at more than 80 partner establishments, including cafés, restaurants, stores and spas, through this app.
Whether you’re planning a self-care day or looking for an adventure with friends, here’s how you can enjoy a day about town in Sydney or Melbourne, all while maximising your rewards with Kris+.
1. Saunter through Sydney
Start your day with a delightful morning cuppa at Gumption Coffee
The skilled baristas at this tiny café within the historic Strand Arcade in Sydney’s bustling business district know their stuff. They’ll make you a perfect flat white using their own boldly flavoured roasted beans with equally bold names, such as Hairy Chest and Goodness Galileo. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Grab a cuppa at Gumption’s beautiful café at the Strand Arcade. Photo: Gumption Coffee
Discover artisanal Italian footwear at 124 Shoes
Put your best foot forward at 124 Shoes, a short walk down George Street. Their massive collection of artisanal Italian footwear from boots to sandals are made from the highest quality materials and come in a dazzling array of styles. The store, with its gleaming shoes and strong leather aroma, is a sensory experience in its own right. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Photo: 124 Shoes
Treat yourself or a loved one at Kakawa Chocolates
Then, hop on a bus east through Hyde Park to Darlinghurst to visit Kakawa Chocolates, where you’ll find fresh chocolates made using locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Enjoy flavours such as strawberry and peppercorn, mango and chilli dark chocolate, as well as Asian-inspired ones such as green tea, calamansi and lychee. A box of these artisanal treats makes for a perfect gift. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Photo: Kakawa Chocolates
Sample Korean fusion bites at Funda
Refuel at Funda, a funky fusion joint back in the city’s shopping and business district. Against an eclectic backdrop of multi-coloured glass and plush green banquettes, sample delights like gochujang (a spicy red chilli paste) chicken and pork bossam (Korean boiled pork wrap). Noodle lovers should take note of Funda’s rendition of the ramyeon, or instant noodle, topped with an addictive bulgogi crumble and daikon kimchi. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Photo: Funda
Pamper yourself at the spa or the movies
Walk 15 minutes south to digest lunch and arrive at the historic Queen Victoria Building. Inside, the Queen Spa offers a signature multi-hand sync massage that will leave you feeling like you’ve drifted away on a cloud. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Pamper yourself while making your dollar stretch further with Kris+. Photo: Queen Spa
Or for a different kind of enjoyment, catch a film at any major cinema using Movie Rewards through the Kris+ app. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Wind down with a cocktail in hand at Gin Lane
This cosy bar located in a beautiful heritage terrace in arty Chippendale boasts more than 60 gin cocktails on offer. You’ll find classics like negronis and martinis alongside house specials like the Lightbulb Moment, which includes blue Curacao, rose essence and prosecco served in a – you guessed it – smoking lightbulb. Teetotallers won’t miss out, as zero-proof options are available for all drinks. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Let someone else make the decisions at Bay Nine Omakase
The only thing you’ll have to decide at this waterfront sushi joint is whether to have an eight- or 11-course meal; master sushi chef Yul Kim will take care of the rest. And given how he’s been freshly crowned with a coveted Chef’s Hat by the Australian Good Food Guide 2023, you know you’re in good hands with the morsels of deliciousness he’ll be serving. Pick from a 40-strong sake list to accompany your meal, or ask for a recommendation. Earns 2 miles per dollar
Photo: Bay Nine Omakase
2. Mosey about in Melbourne
Start your day with a hearty brunch at Hardware Société
Make like a true Melburnian and tuck into the above at this alleyway café a stone throw’s away from Southern Cross Station. Some choice picks on this French-inspired menu include the decadent croque madame and garlic mushrooms with shallot bread. Enjoy how the interior matches its menu, with Parisian wicker chairs encircling marble tables and vintage posters of French fashion houses splashed across the walls. Earns 1 mile per dollar
Tuck into Hardware Société’s delicious mains. Photo: Hardware Société
Suit up at Benjamin Barker
Catch a train going via City Loop and disembark at Melbourne Central – or if you don’t mind a slightly longer journey, the free tram service within Melbourne’s Central Business District will also take you there. It’s time for some retail therapy, starting with Benjamin Barker, the purveyor of men’s tailored suits. Browse jackets made from luxurious wool, crisp cotton shirts and well-made accessories like leather wallets – all essentials for the modern gentleman. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Photo: Benjamin Barker
Satiate your sweet tooth with some boba at Comebuytea
If you need a pick-me-up, make a stop across the road at Comebuytea for a taste of Melbourne’s current obsession: bubble tea. Grab a milk-roasted oolong tea or a tropical passionfruit jasmine green tea, and top it off with some kanten crystal jelly, known for its high-fibre, low-fat properties. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Quench your thirst at Comebuytea. Photo: Comebuytea
Grab a comfy pair of shoes at The UGG Shop
Next, head to the nearby QV complex and weave through the laneways filled with designer boutiques – you’ll find the The UGG Shop there. Aside from their iconic Australian sheepskin boots, the brand also boasts a range of slides and sandals perfect for exploring Melbourne now that it’s summer. Earns 3 miles per dollar
UGG’s sheepskin boots are quintessential, but you’ll also find other options more suited for the summer. Photo: The UGG Shop
Indulge in Italian flavours at Brunetti Oro
For lunch or a coffee treat, locals can’t get enough of this café’s Italian dishes and desserts. Its Flinders Lane location throngs with the lively conversation of its diverse clientele.
Take your pick of drool-worthy cakes from the glass cabinets, from the hazelnut-encrusted Nocciolato sponge cake to every type of cheesecake and tart imaginable (don’t miss the lemon tart). Or if you’re craving something savoury, their classics such as pasta, pizza, meatballs and grilled octopus are sure to satisfy. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Find open-faced sandwiches and more at this classic Italian café. Photo: Brunetti Oro
While the afternoon away at the spa or over heart-pumping immersive virtual games
Treat yourself to a luxury experience at Botanica Spa at the InterContinental Hotel. This day spa was opened by a mother-and-daughter duo who wanted to give clients a taste of the most opulent spas around the world. Their treatments range from massages to specialty facials such as LED light therapy and microdermabrasion procedures. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Or for those seeking more of an adrenaline rush, the Virtual Room on the western edge of the CBD near Flagstaff Gardens will get your imagination going and heart pumping with a range of immersive games. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Enter fantastical worlds with your friends at Virtual Room. Photo: Virtual Room
Knock back some craft beers alongside dinner at the Belgian Beer Café
This restaurant at the Eureka Tower in Southbank, the second-tallest building in the city, is where you’ll find a little slice of Europe. Wash down a kilo of moules frites (mussels and fries) or a Flemish beef and dark ale pie, with one of the 120 Belgian, European or Australian beers available. Watch the sun set over the Yarra River as you reflect on a day well spent. Earns 3 miles per dollar
Enjoy some hearty grub and thirst-quenching craft beers at the Belgian Beer Café. Photo: Belgian Beer Café
The Kris+ app offers an earn rate of up to three miles for every dollar spent at participating venues via Apple Pay or Google Pay. Customers can also redeem their earned miles at a rate of 150 miles for AU$1 off their bill. Download the app here.
Produced by SilverKris in partnership withPorcelain Skin
When it comes to skincare, one name reigns supreme in the Lion City – Porcelain Skin. This isn’t just a brand; it’s a beauty sanctuary that has made its mark as the cult-premium skincare in Singapore. Founded in 2009 by dynamic mother-daughter duo of veteran aesthetician Jenny, and her daughter Pauline, Porcelain Skin has become a go-to for both locals and travellers seeking the best in skincare.
Porcelain Skin has a clear vision – to marry craftsmanship and technology to create the future of skincare. It has earned its stripes with more than 130 awards, including an unprecedented 11-year winning streak as the Best Beauty Spa in Asia at the World Luxury Spa Awards. Their trio of spas, including the groundbreaking “smart” spa at Paragon Orchard, showcases not just a commitment to skincare but a dedication to crafting an immersive experience for its customers.
At the core of Porcelain Skin’s brand philosophy is a foundation-free approach to beauty. Photo: Porcelain Skin
Beauty begins within
What sets Porcelain Skin apart is a foundation-free philosophy to beauty that goes beyond skin-deep. Its solutions are rooted in cellular regeneration and a holistic approach to skincare that steers clear of harmful chemicals, offering a gentle yet potent elixir for the skin.
Must-try treatments: skincare tailored to you
Forget cookie-cutter skincare solutions: whether you battle acne, skin sensitivity or premature ageing, Porcelain Skin’s bespoke solutions are curated to unveil your healthiest, most radiant self. At Porcelain Skin, the staff celebrate individuality, acknowledging that each person’s skin is unique, with distinct lifestyles and skincare needs.
Indulge in their signature treatments:
Barrier Booster+ Facial($294, usual price: $368): Immerse yourself in a 90-minute sanctuary designed to restore and elevate compromised skin barriers. This signature facial, blending advanced medi-technology with nourishing essences, promises instantly brighter, plumper skin and a more youthful appearance. This new launch has already received rave reviews form customers who have tried it. In-depth before and after scans reveal marked improvements in hydration levels, skin texture and sensitivity post-treatment cycle.
ClearPurity Sensitive Repair($368): Sensitive souls, rejoice! This best-selling treatment, infused with the magic of Korean skincare technology, purifies and soothes sensitive skin without any invasive techniques or downtime needed. Bid adieu to congested pores as the high-potency botanicals melt into your skin, leaving it clear and healthier. This refreshing facial experience is perfect for those looking to soothe skin concerns related to the unforgiving heat and humidity in Singapore.
Duo-Intensive Neck & Décolleté Treatment($328): Dare to defy gravity! Often the first areas to show signs of aging, the Duo-Intensive Neck & Décolleté Treatment is the VIP treatment your neck and upper chest have been longing for. In just 45 minutes, watch fine lines take a vacation, leaving behind firmer, clearer, and brighter skin.
Track your skin’s transformation with Porcelain Skin’s proprietary mobile app. Photo: Porcelain Skin
To get the most out of your facial treatment, track your skin’s evolution and transformation after your session with Porcelain Skin’s exclusive and proprietary mobile app. This helps you chart your skin’s progress meaningfully, beyond the post-facial glow.
Exclusive delights for globe-trotters
After the hustle and bustle of exploring the city, pamper your skin with a traveller-exclusive treatment at Porcelain Skin. Choose from targeted treatments like the Multi-Spectrum Intensive Eye Treatment or Duo-Intensive Neck & Décolleté Treatment. Enjoy the rejuvenating extras – a Shiatsu Face Massage or LED Light Therapy – and revel in the 30% savings, priced at $488, valid for three months. Stylish travellers will also delight in the limited-edition TOSxPorcelain Travel Kit, a collaboration with local leather brand Tocco Toscano, offering the perfect on-the-go kit for your skincare essentials.
The limited-edition TOSxPorcelain Travel Kit, in collaboration with homegrown leather brand Tocco Toscano. Photo: Porcelain Skin
Porcelain Skin: the ultimate skincare destination in Singapore
Beyond being a skincare haven, Porcelain Skin is a pioneer in the digital realm, weaving a personalised narrative for each client. To start your skincare journey, Porcelain Skin is offering an exclusive traveller’s discount for their Porcelain Travel Kits. Use the promo codes SilverKris10 for 10% off and SilverKris20 for a generous 20% off, valid between now and December 21, 2024.
With its impeccable reputation and bespoke approach to skincare, Porcelain offers a stellar experience that will leave your skin in better shape than before. So, the next time you find yourself in Singapore, make sure to visit Porcelain Skin and discover the future of skincare. Your skin will thank you.
Opened in 2019, Jewel Changi Airport is a stunning retail and lifestyle destination that serves more than just travellers. The mall is home to over 280 outlets including the first permanent Pokémon Centre outside of Japan and the Rain Vortex – the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
There’s no time like the present to start planning your getaways for the rest of the year. Whether you’re a solo traveller looking for fantastic eats or have the little ones in tow, you’ll be sure to make great memories in sunny Singapore, with these seven exciting things to check out on your next visit:
1. A vibrant bar scene that continues to surprise
2023 saw a bumper crop of newcomers eager to make their mark on the local bar scene. Opened last June, Cat Bite Club is a stylish modern agave and rice spirit-focused bar located in the trendy Duxton Road area. For an introduction to their craft, try the signature Cat Bite Margarita that’s made with a mix of white tequila and mezcal. Other new kids on the block to watch include White Shades and Paelet a stone’s throw away, as well as Tess Bar & Kitchen and Puffy Bois in the neighbouring Bugis district.
Another staple on the Cat Bite Club menu is the Pineapple Coffee Fire. Photo: Benjamin SimFounders of Cat Bite Club, industry veterans Jesse Vida and Gabriel Lowe. Photo: Benjamin Sim
Prefer your tipples with eclectic beats and stunning city views? High House made its debut late last year and offers intriguing cocktails like the Tobacco & Grain, along with a lively nightly music programme.
Singapore’s bar scene is already world-renowned, with an impressive 11 Singaporean bars making it into Asia’s 50 Best Bars’ 2023 list – with these exciting new additions, you’ll be more spoiled for choice than ever.
2. Uniquely Singaporean shophouse stays
Singapore’s popularity with tourists has made it a prime spot for globally renowned luxury hotel groups, but if you prefer a stay with a little more local flavour, try a boutique hotel set within one of Singapore’s ubiquitous heritage shophouses.
21 Carpenter is the latest addition to this class of hotels, joining others like Duxton Reserve, The Sultan and KēSa House. The design-forward luxury hotel is set within a former remittance house along Carpenter Street, within easy distance of the CBD and Chinatown. Its interiors, while modern, preserves the building’s original elements like floorboards made from native Chengal wood and sculptural handrails.
The lobby of 21 Carpenter. Photo: Jovian Lim
3. Savour bold flavours from beyond our shores
Singapore’s vibrant dining scene is the nation’s pride, with its local hawker food and high-end dining both recognised globally. In addition to this, you’ll also get to discover fantastic cuisine from across the world.
Try Restaurant Khiri, a brand-new contemporary Thai restaurant set within a shophouse along eclectic Jalan Besar. For traditional Ceylonese dishes such as curry leaf coconut rice with dry jackfruit curry, book a table at the charming Colonial-style Kunthaville in Little India.
Or if you’re in an experimental mood, hit up KUN in Tanjong Pagar. This omakase-style Sichuanese restaurant has been kicking up a buzz, thanks to hits such as cypress wood-smoked marinated beef and mapo tofu with Sichuan Hanyuan pepper and bean paste gravy.
Restaurant Khiri features a stylish dining room with bar counter seating. Photo: Restaurant Khiri
4. Fresh additions to Singapore’s favourite island escape
In 2024, there are even more reasons to visit Sentosa, the famed island getaway that’s just a short taxi ride from the city centre.
Luxuriate poolside in private cabanas, cocktail in hand, at the newly opened WET Deck along the shores of swanky Sentosa Cove. Operated by W Singapore, this pool club operates on a day-pass system which affords guests access to all facilities for the day even if you’re not a hotel guest. Another newcomer to the island is the Tipsy Unicorn Beach Club. This dazzling, neon-drenched spot is located along Siloso Beach and features a pool, live music and an extensive food and drink menu.
WET Deck is a day-to-night hangout. Photo: W Singapore
Elsewhere on the island, Potterheads can experience a magical nighttime Forbidden Forest trail that’s inspired by the world of Harry Potter from Feb 3 onwards. More a fan of the adorable yellow creatures from the Despicable Me movie franchise? Keep your eye out for the brand new Minion Land attraction at Universal Studios Singapore, set to open sometime in 2024.
5. A mix of music for every concert-goer
In 2024, Singapore will play host to legendary musical acts like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran and Coldplay, but if your tastes lean towards the more eclectic, there are plenty of other acts to catch.
If it’s K-pop that gets you bopping, you’ll have girl group sensations STAYC and IVE to look forward to in the first half of the year, at The Star Theatre and the Singapore Indoor Stadium respectively. There’s also global sensation Bruno Mars, whose sold-out show at the Singapore National Stadium prompted organisers to add an additional performance date on 3 April, and Fly By Midnight, a Los Angeles-based pop duo, who will kick off their Anemoia 24 Asia tour in Singapore at the Esplanade Annexe Studio on 26 October.
6. Fun and educational activities for the young
Looking for an afternoon of educational fun for your little ones? Pay a visit to the all-new KidzWorld at Singapore Zoo. This family-friendly zone in the zoo includes a petting zoo with goats, falabellas (an Argentine breed of small horse) and chickens, regular animal shows, interactive games and even a playground with a wet play zone.
For the older and more outdoorsy, head to Trifecta to check out board sports. Located in the heart of Orchard Road, Trifecta offers a simulator slope for skiing and snowboarding, a freestyle park, a surf pool and a board shop. Kids aged six and above can participate in classes or book free-and-easy sessions to perfect their techniques.
7. A revamped Terminal 2 at the World’s Best Airport
Though airports are more of a gateway than a destination, Singapore’s award-winning Changi Airport has grown to be a landmark that travellers and locals alike love, given its gorgeous design and extensive retail and dining options. Guests flying into the airport in 2024 will have something new to look forward to – a newly revamped Terminal 2.
Photo: Changi Airport Group
After being closed for three and a half years, the terminal reopened in November 2023 with an expansive biophilic design that includes a lush indoor garden and a fish pond, along with a host of new retail experiences.
Doing a little pre-flight shopping? Check out new local retailers like Baker’s Well and Lynk Fragrances. There is also a wealth of dining options including Chutney Mary, Peach Garden as well as Jones The Grocer, a premium supermarket.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore, visit the official website.
This modern Aussie restaurant in Phuket Town sees a native son returning home with new ideas from overseas. Run by Thai chef Nattaphon “Oat” Othanawathakij, a former Thai national team snowboarder, Heh leans on local produce like line-caught seafood and Thai Wagyu across an ever-changing menu. Every dish on the menu is ingredient-forward. In other words: good produce cooked simply. Interesting wines, attentive service and a small but buzzy space invite repeat visits.
ZigZagZurich is a new lifestyle brand and showroom in Kreis 10, the leafy district on the right bank of the Limmat, that offers a range of textiles and home accessories.
They are known for their collaborations with creatives working in fine art, digital design and illustration to inject fresh ideas and inspiration into bedding, curtains, shower curtains and other accessories.
The company uses high quality materials (think alpaca wool from sustainable mills) and traditional production techniques. While quality is high, price points are reasonable.
Water is such an important part of the culture and history of Zurich, (note all the beautiful ancient drinking fountains across town.) Of course, spas are a part of that culture. One of the best in town is the spa within the stunning Norman-Foster-designer Dolder Grand Hotel. The 4,000-square-meter wellness space, which you enter along a winding stone walled path, is the perfect place to indulge in a day of hydrotherapy or a single treatment such as a La Prairie skin detox that combines luxury and state-of-the-art skin care.
In this city without seasons, the best way to experience the turn of the weather is through chef Takeshi Araki’s modern Japanese kappo cuisine, at this cosy shophouse restaurant tucked away in the serene River Valley neighbourhood. His menu foregrounds the beauty and flavours of seasonal produce, against a light-filled interior that inspires contemplative enjoyment.
The newly launched winter tasting menu features a litany of hits, such as their delightfully textural foie gras monaka (a type of Japanese sweet involving paste sandwiched between two thin crisp wafers made from mochi) and kasujiru, a silky collagenic soup made with sea bream stock, white miso and sake lees, served with a tender slice of dashi-braised abalone.
Esora delivers no less than a walk through a snow-filled moss garden wrought in miniature, with their winter hassun. This seasonal platter of four small bites – which includes deep-fried blue eggplant with lobster butter and uni, winter yellowtail sashimi and ankimo (monkfish liver) – are arranged around fluffy, moss-like green ball dianthus flowers sprinkled over with ground rice evocative of snow. If this culinary spread and visual experience doesn’t transport you to the cold and calm of a Japanese countryside, nothing will – though admittedly, the rainy season here in Singapore does help set the mood.
Each dish is expertly paired with your choice of tea or sake. However you decide to indulge, just don’t forget to take home your personal pair of cherry wood chopsticks as a souvenir of when you stepped into a different world.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) is one of the most decorated airlines in the world, so it is no surprise that it also has one of the best wine collections in the sky. Assembled by a panel of wine experts, its catalogue clinched five golds in Business Traveller’s Cellars in the Sky Awards 2022, including Best Overall Cellar, Best Presented Business Class Wine List and Best Presented First Class Wine List
For the novice wine collector, building a personal stash may seem daunting or affected. But a supermarket brand is just as susceptible to poor storage as your prized vintage Burgundy. So whether you are buying an easy drinking wine for a weeknight or aiming to rack up an age-worthy collection, it’s worth carving out a space in the house for your favourite bottles.
Where can you start? SIA’s expert wine consultant Michael Hill-Smith MW and Andrea Pritzker MW, who duxed the prestigious Len Evans Wine Tutorial in 2022, share their tips on how to start a wine collection of your own. Michael Hill-Smith, in his capacity as SIA’s expert wine consultant, also explains the considerations behind SIA’s awarded wine list.
Michael Hill-Smith MW. Photo: Michael Hill-SmithAndrea Pritzker MW. Photo: Andrea Pritzker
Find a quiet, dark place with a constant temperature
“Wines like a quiet place to be cellared, away from light, vibrations and fluctuations in temperature,” says Pritzker. A dry basement or underground storage space is ideal. Otherwise, an internal closet (such as under the stairs) also works well.
Hill-Smith favours housing special bottles in temperature-controlled wine fridges. “As much as I like traditional cellars, the reality is that most of us don’t have the space. These units store between 120 and 240 bottles and do a great job for long-term storage of top collectables.”
Collect based on your drinking habits
“Every wine collection starts with two bottles,” says Pritzker, so there’s no hurry in amassing a collection. When determining what or how much to buy, she suggests gauging based on your drinking habits.
“Assess how many wines you drink over a month or year and then calculate from there. If you enjoy a bottle of wine three to four times a week, I would recommend building a cellar of approximately 300 to 400 bottles. This will ensure that you can enjoy your favourite wines regularly, while also keeping a few bottles tucked away in the cellar to see how they develop with time. It’s important to always save some space for your next discovery,” she adds.
Photo: Shutterstock
Always try before you buy
Hill-Smith says one common mistake wine lovers often make is “not tasting before they buy”. This is important to get a sense of the wine’s quality and flavour, and most importantly whether you love it or not.
Drink it, or pass it on
Another common mistake, Hill-Smith adds, is “leaving wines too long in the cellar without monitoring their progress as they age.”
Pritzker concurs, “I used to work in fine wine auctions and the most common mistake is buying too much of one type of wine and not properly planning on when you will drink it. I saw a lot of beautiful wines that vendors wanted to auction that were sadly past their best. If you love the wine, purchase a case or more, but be sure that you’re also drinking through it. If not, either sell it, or give it away as gifts while it’s still in its prime. Cellared wines make excellent gifts.”
“Every wine collection starts with two bottles”
Build an SIA-worthy collection
SIA’s taut wine list provides a good jumping-off point for the novice collector. Highlights include second growth Bordeaux, grand cru Burgundy, as well as some excellent champagnes. Hill-Smith enthuses, “Krug Grande Cuvée is an extraordinary wine combining power with finesse, and Taittinger’s Comtes de Champagne is a wonderful example of aged blanc de blancs (Champagne made exclusively from white grapes). My favourite Charles Heidsieck Blanc des Millénaires is currently being poured onboard and future pours include the extremely rare and famous grower champagne Egly Ouriet.”
A Singapore Airlines customer enjoying a tipple while on board. Photo: Singapore Airlines
How Singapore Airlines does it
Curating a collection that can shine under dry cabin conditions is no easy feat. Hill-Smith, together with SIA wine consultants Jeannie Cho Lee and Oz Clarke, blind taste through over a thousand wines a year to select the finest examples of Champagne, red, white and port.
“Curating a long wine list is easy; creating a short list is more challenging!”
“An SIA wine list should be thoughtfully constructed to successfully contrast different wine styles from both Europe and the New World,” Hill-Smith explains. “Champagne in both Business and First class is mandatory, of course, along with a balanced selection of light and heavier-bodied reds plus oaked and unoaked whites. The list should be concise yet exciting.”
Needless to say, size matters when it comes to an in-flight wine menu. “Space is at a premium on aeroplanes so each wine needs to earn its place,” he explains. “Curating a long wine list is easy; creating a short list is more challenging!”
So what can passengers look forward to imbibing in flight? “In Business, we offer one Champagne, two dry whites, three reds and a 10-year-old Tawny Port. And in First class, two prestige cuvée Champagnes plus a rare grower Champagne, two whites, three reds and a 20-year-old tawny port. The First class offering tends to be more classic, whilst in Business class, we include more ‘discovery wines’ along with staples such as Australian shiraz, Bordeaux and white Burgundy,” according to Hill-Smith.
Blind tasting ensures that the bottles are picked for wine quality rather than just famous premium labels – we look for well-made wines with personality and vibrancy. And “because the air in the cabin can be dry at altitude, wines with good fruit lift tend to show well,” Hill-Smith adds.
For more information on our Wine Consultants and our beverage programme, visit the official website.
This art-focused cocktail bar is one of the latest additions to the buzzy Keong Saik neighbourhood. Fashionably moody and furnished with repurposed Singaporean shipping pallets, the space is a hotspot for drinks inspired by global flavours, such as Seoul Searcher, which puts a Korean twist on the classic margarita withgochujang(a savoury-sweet red chilli paste popular in Korean cooking).
The food is also well-executed – the deceptively simple sourdough with black garlic and black salt is irresistible, and the grilled half-chicken with agave, papaya and peanut is a must-order.
It’s often said that theatre holds a mirror up to society, and indeed there are few better ways to get acquainted with a city than through a good local production. From decades-old establishments to the newer kids on the block, there are many wonderful companies that tell the stories of Singapore – here are some of them.
1. Wild Rice
Fun, stylish performances that pack a punch
Known for tackling pressing social issues with a sharp wit and a generous dollop of humour, Wild Rice has been building a distinctly local stage presence since artistic director Ivan Heng founded the company in 2000. Its annual season generally comprises a mix of original works and adaptations of classics with a twist.
“Our works celebrate the rich tapestry of Singaporean culture and diversity through presenting the best of local theatre, and in so doing, give audiences a sense of community, pride and belonging,” says Heng.
A scene from Wild Rice’s 2022 sold-out run of Tartuffe: The Imposter. Photo: Wild Rice
In 2024, for instance, it will be bringing back local playwright Joel Tan’s adaptation of Molière’s darkly hilarious satire, Tartuffe: The Imposter, after a sold-out run in 2022. Wild Rice also traditionally ends the year with a family-friendly pantomime, featuring a cast of adorable young actors from the company’s training arms.
Catch these shows at the Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre – located at the trendy Funan Mall, it’s the only thrust stage in Singapore and offers an intimate experience.
Heartwarming and heart-wrenching in equal measures, Pangdemonium’s shows tend to confront difficult topics about what it means to be human. Over the years, artistic directors Adrian and Tracy Pang have gotten local audiences talking about traditionally taboo themes such as mental health, addiction and dysfunctional families, often through globally acclaimed works.
“Theatre has to put us all under a microscope to be examined and deconstructed so that we can better understand ourselves, and also be a mirror to reflect the very best and worst of humanity and challenge ourselves to change for the better,” says Adrian.
A scene from Pangdemonium’s 2019 showing of Urinetown. Photo: Pangdemonium
The company’s 2024 productions include Falling, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf and Dear Evan Hansen. They will be staged at three different venues – Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Kewalram Chanrai (KC) Arts Centre and Victoria Theatre respectively.
While the Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) has produced some notable original works since its inception in 1993, it is best known for bringing renowned plays like God of Carnage and ART, and high-profile global talents like Sir Ian McKellen, Ethan Hawke and Lea Salonga to Singapore’s shores.
“SRT just celebrated 30 years of bringing the magic of theatre to over 100,000 people annually,” says artistic director Gaurav Kripalani. “Theatre, in my perspective, occupies a distinctive role in Singaporean society. Beyond serving as a mirror of our lives, it uniquely provides a profound communal experience.”
A scene from SRT’s 2023 run of 2:22 A Ghost Story. Photo: Singapore Repertory Theatre
Most performances take place at KC Arts Centre, its long-time home at tranquil Robertson Quay. In 2024, the company will stage a triple-bill of one-person plays, each highlighting how humans can thrive in the face of adversity.
With a history dating back to 1965 – the year of Singapore’s independence – The Theatre Practice is the oldest bilingual theatre institution in town. Co-founded by Cultural Medallion recipients the late Kuo Pao Kun and his wife Goh Lay Kuan, it’s now helmed by their daughter Kuo Jian Hong.
“One of the key concepts that Practice champions through our works is how essential play is,” shares Kuo. “Beyond providing much-needed joy and pleasure through the magic of the arts and collective expression, theatre (and play) has the power to challenge long-held assumptions, to open up critical conversations and inspire possibilities.”
A scene from The Theatre Practice’s 2023 showing of Four Horse Road. Photo: Tan Ngiap Heng / The Pond Photography
Over the years, it has built a repertoire comprising original Chinese musicals like Lao Jiu: The Musical and immersive experiences such as the acclaimed Four Horse Road.
The company continues to push the boundaries of artistic engagement through projects like Practice Tuckshop, an arts space and cafe within The Theatre Practice’s home in the heritage Bras Basah district. There, they host lunch parties and workshops, providing different ways for audiences to participate in the arts.
What began as a division that focused on Chinese hand puppets at The Theatre Practice in 1996 blossomed into something much bolder. The Finger Players became an independent company in 1999, to create works that were initially intended for children.
A seismic shift in its artistic direction took place in 2004, when the company started staging productions for adults as well – all while melding various styles of puppetry with other artistic forms. Since then, The Finger Players has gone through several iterations under various leadership.
A scene from The Finger Players’ 2023 production of The Puppets Are Alright. Photo: Benson Lim
It’s now led by artistic director Oliver Chong, who carries on the mission “to bring puppetry to the masses, ensuring accessibility without compromising on depth, steering clear of mere cheap and bent-double entertainment.”
At the heart of Drama Box’s mission is a desire to engage in civic dialogue not just with arts lovers, but also those who might not usually set foot inside theatres. They’re thus known for bringing their performances out into the streets and suburbs, with their movable, inflatable stage.
“By shining a spotlight on marginalised narratives and making space for the communal contemplation of complex issues, we seek to tell stories that provoke a deeper understanding of Singapore’s culture, history and identity,” says artistic director Kok Heng Leun. Themes found in past shows include land planning in a small country, and how to prepare loved ones for death.
A scene from Drama Box’s 2023 production of When cloud catches colours. Photo: Drama Box
Drama Box also has a long history of practising forum theatre, where audience members have the power to stop and influence the events the actors are enacting. As you can imagine, they make for some truly engaging experiences.
Teater Ekamatra has deep roots in the Malay theatre scene. Over the last 35 years, it has presented works that centre ethnic minority voices as in their exploration of universal themes such as love, grief and identity.
“In a country where many conversations are seemingly too difficult to navigate, theatre is a powerful medium to not only have that conversation but also eke out space for imagining and futuring life differently,” says artistic director Shaza Ishak. “We do this to continue pushing for more voices to be included in the national and international narrative.”
A scene from Teater Ekamatra’s 2023 showing of Potong. Photo: A. Syadiq
As part of these efforts, Ekamatra provides a platform for aspiring playwrights to learn from industry veterans, and thus acts as an important incubator for experimental new works.
Founded in 1987, The Necessary Stage has presented over 100 plays that often spotlight marginalised, oppressed, or overlooked members of society. It’s helmed by Cultural Medallion recipients, director Alvin Tan and playwright Haresh Sharma, and the plays tend to feel intimate and deeply personal.
“Our philosophy is to create works that explore the relationships between tradition with modernity, with a degree of self-awareness that potentially inspires us to become better versions of ourselves,” says Tan.
A sneak peek of The Necessary Stage’s upcoming production, Oo-woo. Photo: The Necessary Stage
On top of its main season, The Necessary Stage is also behind the annual M1 Singapore Fringe Festival, with the next one happening from 17–28 January 2024 at the Esplanade Theatre Studio and other locations.
Audiences at Checkpoint Theatre’s shows can expect to get drawn into a series of tender relationship dramas in beautiful and poignant ways. Some of its most celebrated original works explore the love between – and challenges faced by – friends, lovers, parents and their children.
“Theatre brings people together. It reflects our human experiences – our innermost hopes, fears and dreams – and fosters a sense of empathy and understanding,” shares associate artistic director and playwright Faith Ng. “These stories become an integral part of our cultural fabric.”
A scene from Checkpoint Theatre’s 2023 production Session Zero. Photo: Checkpoint Theatre
Its 2024 season sees the launch of three new pieces, including Secondary: The Musical written and composed by local musician weish, Playing with Fire by Cheyenne Alexandria Phillips and Hard Mode by Ng.
As one of the first companies in Singapore to experiment with the theatrical dining format, Andsoforth builds fantastical worlds that invite visitors to leave reality behind – all while enjoying a specially curated menu to fit the theme.
“Andsoforth’s philosophy centres on ‘fun dining’, a unique fusion of gastronomic innovation and interactive engagement,” says co-founder Emily Png. “We are dedicated to weaving compelling narratives, ensuring each dining adventure is not just a meal, but a captivating, fun-filled journey that resonates with a wide audience.”
A scene in Andsoforth’s Adventures in Grimmsneyland also takes place in a ball pit. Photo: Andsoforth
Past productions include The Imaginarium of Disco David, where one segment took place within a ball pit, and Around the World in 80 Days, which brought guests on a whirlwind tour involving dining in a train carriage. While the next adventure has yet to be announced, its immersive dining experience featuring a six-course omakase menu, Absurdities, is ongoing at a secret location that’s revealed to participants 24 hours before its commencement.
Located along the banks of the Huangpu River, close to theNew Bund International Business District, this urban oasis offers a unique blend of traditional hospitality and contemporary elegance. Apart from its state-of-the-art business facilities, the hotel also boasts a wide range of dining establishments, including the opulent Shangri-La Jiangnan Wok, which serves up a modernspin on traditional Huiayang cuisine. Weary travellers will also benefit from the slew of wellness services available at the Spa at Shangri-La Qiantan.
Long before the packed restaurants, awards and the prestigious speaker invitations, there were two humble dinner tables. At one, located within the beating heart of São Paulo, sat Ivan Brehm, whose young mind was grappling with his multiethnic background while eating his family’s Syrian, Lebanese, German, Russian, Italian and Spanish dishes.
At another, nestled in leafy Westchester Country, New York, Selassie Atadika and her family tried to stay connected with their African roots while laying down new ones as a first-generation immigrant family.
And even though their stories unfolded a few years and almost 8,000 km apart, Brehm’s and Atadika’s formative experiences shaped similar philosophies. Both knew that food has the power to be so much more than mere sustenance. Each bite is an opportunity to inspire deeper connections.
Chef Ivan Brehm. Photo: NouriChef Selassie Atadika. Photo: Midunu
Building community through breaking bread at Nouri
“Eating is an essential act,” says Brehm. “It is also deeply intimate and expresses a fair share of trust between the parties sharing the table, growing and preparing the food. The ritualised acts of breaking bread, of toasting, of passing food around – they strengthen the community. The willingness to sit around a table and share a meal with a stranger, by proxy, brings us closer.”
His passion to create food that inspires kinship and conversations carried him to some of the most illustrious kitchens around the world. After stints in institutions such as Thomas Keller’s Per Se in New York and Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck in London, Brehm finally opened Nouri in Singapore in 2017. The restaurant has since received a Michelin star. The team also set up an additional creative interdisciplinary space called Appetite on the second floor in 2020.
“The willingness to sit around a table and share a meal with a stranger brings us closer”
This is where Brehm continues to experiment with what he calls his “Crossroads Cooking” style, creating flavours that are at once familiar and exciting. “We look for similar expressions in different cultures and use them as creative fodder,” he explains. “Sometimes the research points us in the direction of historical connections. Sometimes it highlights a more basic link, like a shared appreciation for sweet and sour. The point is to convey our links, to build a cuisine of similarities.”
Brehm’s belief is that over a meal, people may discover that they’re not so different after all.
A culinary journey through Africa by way of humanitarian work
Meanwhile, Atadika’s career began as a United Nations (UN) humanitarian worker. Helping African communities anticipate and respond to disasters took her across the continent. Along the way, she was sampling the continent’s diverse flavours, teaching herself how to cook using a research-oriented approach, as well as learning about food production.
“The lessons I learnt include the fact that Africa is currently the most plant-forward continent globally. Our diet still contains a lot of wild or foraged foods and ancient grains like millet and sorghum,” Atadika shares. “We have a low- to no-waste approach to cooking, and a long tradition of shared communal dining where families and communities even share food from one plate.”
One of her earliest forays into the culinary arts was Trio Toque, a now-defunct pop-up dining experience that had been the first of its kind in Dakar, Senegal. Thereafter, she leaned into her calling, left the UN and enrolled into the Culinary Institute of America. Now, she champions what she calls “New African cuisine” at Midunu, a Ghana-based food company that celebrates the continent’s cultural and culinary heritage through private dining events and artisanal chocolates.
Midunu’s artisanal chocolates pay homage to the flavours of the African continent. Photo: Midunu
“In my decade travelling around Africa, I observed many shared guiding principles in the continent’s various cuisines. At the same time, my eyes were opened to some of the challenges ahead in terms of food security and climate change. ” she says. “New African cuisine is my response to some of these problems – it’s where culture, community and cuisine intersect with environment, sustainability and economy.”
Through her work, she’s sharing the diversity of African flavours with the world. At the same time, she also hopes to uplift local communities by empowering everyone from the farmers growing indigenous crops to the women making gorgeous chocolates by hand.
An opportunity for curious palates to sample during Singapore Art Week
With both Brehm and Atadika working at the intersection of food and cultures, it was a matter of time before their paths converge. The moment arrives in the form of a collaborative dining experience titled “Crossroads of Afro-Asian Flavours”, to be held at Nouri on 18 and 19 January 2024.
This four-hands dinner coincides with “Translations: Afro-Asian Poetics”, an exhibition on African and Asian works that the restaurant will be hosting over Singapore Art Week, a major weeklong celebration of visual arts in Singapore that occurs every January.
Renowned Singaporean artist Lee Wen’s Splash #3 and Splash #4 are two of the works on view at “Translations: Afro-Asian Poetics”, from 3 Jan to 18 Feb at Nouri. Photo: Nouri
The chefs’ excitement at the opportunity to work with each other is palpable. “I deeply respect Selassie – her way of thinking about food, but also culture and people,” says Brehm. “I’ve always wanted to do something with her in Singapore and feel that her contributions are entirely relevant to the curious palates of our guests.”
“Ivan and I met several years ago and connected on our research-oriented approach to cooking. We knew we would have to find a way to explore our approaches, and this exhibition gave us a wonderful opportunity,” adds Atadika.
Good food should make you ponder, and take your mind to somewhere new
In line with their own practices, they’re focusing on common ground when conceptualising the menu.
“It is impossible to fully represent the wonderful complexity and wealth of African and Asian food traditions,” Brehm acknowledges. “So we focused more on studying our similar ways, like the identical preparations of Southeast Asian sambal chilli paste and Ghanaian meko (a type of pepper sauce); the Filipino peanut stew kare-kare and the West African maafe; and our beloved sugee cake and semolina cake from the Maghreb.”
From sitting at their family’s dinner tables to setting their own, both chefs have found their purpose through food. And now, they’re preparing dishes that inspire a new way of seeing, tasting and understanding the world.
“Good food should be more than comfort. It should make you ponder and take your mind to somewhere new,” says Brehm. Atadika agrees. “During my time travelling around Africa with the UN, I kept seeing similarities and differences in what and how we eat. I became curious and never stopped looking for connections,” she shares. “Food brings people to the table.”
Chefs Ivan Brehm and Selassie Atadika will be hosting a four-hands dinner at Nouri on 18 and 19 January. For more information, visit the Nouri website.
The hero image features chef Brehm’s Afro-Brazilian-style fritter with turmeric and coconut curry served with a salted prawn emulsion. A version of this dish will be served as a snack in the upcoming four-hands menu. Photo: Nouri
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore, visit theofficial website.
New year, new ways of travelling. As the sun rises on 2024, it’s time to dust off that resolve to try something of a different speed and prepare for brand new adventures.
Whether it’s a heart-pumping hike in the wilderness or an idyllic island getaway, these eight escapades promise breathtaking vistas, surprise encounters and some quality, contemplative time in the great outdoors.
So what are you waiting for? Put some of these ideas on your travel bucket list and get planning for your next epic adventure.
1. Jump on the Korean-style camping trend
Book a flight to: Seoul
Camping has become something of a national sport in South Korea since the pandemic eased, when millions of travel-starved locals descended upon the hundreds of campgrounds across the country to satisfy the urge for a different experience.
Take a leaf from their book and camp with style: think tents but with creature comforts, such as fairy lights and movie screenings with compact projectors. Ortry outbulmeong, a local camping craze that involves zoning out while staring at a fire.
Camping in style. Photo: Li Yang via Unsplash
No Korean gathering is complete without a feast, so break out your cast iron pots for some campfire spicy stew with Korean beef and steaming bowls of rice.
For tips on camping near Seoul, read our full storyhere.
2. Bliss out on island getaways off the coast of Singapore
Book a flight to: Singapore
Just a pebble’s skip away from the cosmopolitan hub of Singapore – past the Indonesian border – are some world-class island getaways that boast crystal-clear waters, luxurious resorts and activities for couples and families alike.
Fulfil your island-living dreams in the gorgeous adults-only bamboo villas onCempedak Private Islandin Riau, a three-hour journey from Singapore. Its smart design offers the best of living in nature, while the exceptional hospitality and sumptuous meals ensure you won’t want to leave.
Cempedak Island's beachview villas. Photo: Cempedak Private IslandVaulted ceilings give the villas at Cempedak Island a capacious look and feel. Photo: Cempedak Private Island
Kayak around the island or explore on land by foot – either way, keep an eye out for hornbills, hawksbill turtles and other wildlife. For a family-friendly version of this eco-luxury experience, check out its sister resortNikoi Island, a short ferry ride away.
Seeking something more off the grid? Head toTelunas Resortson remoteSugi Island, also in Indonesia’s Riau archipelago, where you’ll swap Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and television for water sports and spa treatments.
For more island escapes near Singapore, read our full storyhere.
3. Walk on the wild side with the elusive leopard in Sri Lanka’s nature reserves
Book a flight to: Colombo
Spotting the majestic leopards in the wilderness of their natural habitats is no walk in the park, so it’s best to seek out these elusive creatures alongside expert wildlife guides and naturalists, who can teach you how to do so responsibly. In the cold light of dawn, you’ll train your senses to attune to the subtlest signs, such as prey alarm calls, markings in the soil and lingering notes of fresh kills.
To track the elusive leopard at Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park, a wildlife sanctuary, there’s no better guide than Hilton Yala Resort’s head ranger Sajith Withanage, the most qualified tracker in the country. His preternatural senses and deep respect for wildlife ensure that every jeep ride with him is filled with surprise sightings and thrilling stories from his 11 years of safari experience.
Head ranger Sajith Withanage (far right) leads a safari tour in the scenic Yala National Park. Photo: Hilton Yala Resort
Explore how you can go on a safari adventure responsibly and in comfort at Hilton Yala Resorthere. For a different kind of cat, read our story on tiger-spotting in Karnataka, India here.
4. Travel by train through Vietnam’s rustic east coast
Book a flight to: Da Nang
Quaint villages emerging like mirages in a sea of rice paddies, disused whistle-stop stations and straw hat-clad farmers tending to their fields – one of the best ways to soak in the tranquil sights of Vietnam’s countryside is aboard a train on Vietnam’s colonial-era railway network.
The Vietage. Photo: The Vietage
The first-class comfort onThe Vietage, a 12-guest train carriage that takes you between the cities of Da Nang and Quy Nhon in six hours, makes this journey all the sweeter. Here, you can get your shoulders massaged and sip on cocktails as you make your way across Vietnam’s eastern coast.
Find out more about The Vietage and Vietnam’s rich history of train travel in our full storyhere.
5. Cycle off the beaten track on Turkey’s idyllic Heybeliada
Book a flight to: Istanbul
Just an hour’s ferry ride from Istanbul lies a charming archipelago of islands calledPrinces’ Islands– their history dates back to the Byzantine era, when they served as refuge for exiled royalty.
Motor vehicles are not allowed on the islands, making getting around by horse-drawn carriages and bicycles the norm. Its second-largest island,Heybeliada, is ideal for exploring by bike, as it sees less traffic than its bigger sibling Burgazada. Here, you can take in cerulean waters, picturesque skyline and eclectic architecture.
Cycling is a great way to explore Princes’ Islands, if you’re seeking an idyllic escape from Istanbul. Photo: Shutterstock
Cycling around the approximate 6km route around this cosy island makes for an ideal half-day sojourn out of Istanbul. Whizz past Victorian-style homes with charming wooden details and orange-hued rooftops of Byzantine buildings that dot the island. Once you’ve taken in the sights, park yourself in a local café for somekasar peynirli tost(grilled cheese).
Find out more about what it’s like to explore Heybeliada by bike in our storyhere.
6. Help save the seas at these beach resorts across the Asia-Pacific
Book a flight to: Male or Okinawa
Contribute to the health of our oceans while getting in some tropical beach time at resorts where marine conservation meets luxury. Dive into the crystal-clear warm waters off the Okinawan coast and transplant young corals in its biodiverse reefs at Intercontinental Manza Beach Resort, or help give waste plastic a second life at the Fairmont Maldives’ Sustainability Lab.
Photo: The Ritz Carlton Maldives Fari Islands
Science geeks can join researchers at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for drone-flying excursions to collect data on marine plastic aggregation and understand how marine trash is carried by currents.
For more ideas on planning your marine conservation-minded getaway, read our full storyhere.
7. Chase flowers and foliage through the seasons in Kanagawa’s peaceful temples
Book a flight to: Tokyo
Along the coastal expanse of Kanagawa Prefecture and just an hour away by train from bustling Tokyo, the ancient capital city of Kamakura entices visitors throughout the year with a rotating schedule of beautiful blooms and foliage.
Delicate plum blossoms grace from February to March, followed by the iconicsakuraor cherry blossoms from March to April. Elegant blue, pink and white hydrangeas burst into bloom in May and June. And don’t miss the flurry of fall foliage between October and December.
Yukata-clad visitors walk through the hydrangea walkway at Meigetsuin temple. Photo: Shutterstock
Pair your floral pursuit with a bowl of matcha in one of the city’s many temple grounds, while meditating upon the Japanese philosophy of tea:ichi go, ichi e, or “one time, one meeting”. Just like the blooming of a flower, a moment can never happen the same way twice; it is an invitation to appreciate life as it comes.
This hill-dotted tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean has much to offer in the way of hikes. If you are up for a challenge, tackle a 300km journey through the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country on thePekoe Trail, past cascading waterfalls and rolling valleys.
From adrenaline-pumping heights to leisurely trails, the hiking options are plenty in Sri Lanka. Photo: Shutterstock
Those who prefer a more leisurely hike can scalePidurangala, a soaring rock that overlooks the UNESCO World Heritage SiteSigiriya– an ancient rock fortress built in the 4th century AD by King Kasyapa. Cool off after with a glass of iced Ceylon tea and cardamom-spiced dessert.
Take your pick among seven Sri Lankan walking trails in our storyhere.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to the above destinations, visit theofficial website.
