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Toots is a clandestine disco hidden within Sneaky Tony’s bustling Chinatown bar. The adventure begins at the front bar – just ask, “Is Toots in?” and receive your golden ticket to a secret door. Inside, the place channels Studio 54 vibes with plush red velvet curtains, glittering mirror balls and a drink menu that screams retro cool. The music sticks to the brief, with disco hits and nostalgic sing-alongs. A welcoming, cheeky and lively place that is a must-visit.
Most cocktail enthusiasts flock to the hotspots in Telok Ayer and Tanjong Pagar when they’re in Singapore. But under the gleam of Jewel Changi Airport’s iconic glass dome awaits a treasure box of exciting bars awaiting discovery – especially if you’re killing time before or after a flight. Here’s a selection you’ll want to begin with:
1. Unwind at this Japanese restaurant’s hidden, private cocktail bar
The symphony of wagyu beef is so tantalising that guests often breeze past Wa-En Wagyu Yakiniku’s discreet cocktail bar. Yet, this elegant pocket bar is one of the best spots for a well-crafted tipple. For a lighter drink, go for the Umami Sake Tonic, which elevates the classic G&T with a fragrant KI NO TEA Kyoto dry gin and a splash of dry sake.
A secret pocket bar in this glittery airport mall. Photo: Wa-En Wagyu YakinikuDon't miss the Old Fashioned, made with Miyazaki Wagyu fat-washed Suntory Old whisky, during Happy Hour. Photo: Wa-En Wagyu Yakiniku
Beyond the concise cocktail list, there is also a fine selection of wines and whiskies, not to mention sake and Japanese beer. Try stopping by during Happy Hour, when the delightfully indulgent Old Fashioned becomes a steal. Made with Miyazaki Wagyu fat-washed Suntory Old whisky and Okinawan brown sugar syrup, it’s garnished with a luxurious piece of Miyazaki Wagyu beef. It’s the perfect place to get away and unwind for a breathe. As the beautiful lattice doors gently slide shut, you’ll be a whole world away from the airport bustle.
2. Score Happy Hour deals while admiring the Rain Vortex
Swathed in lush greenery against the soothing rush of Jewel’s famed indoor waterfall, The World is Flat is not your average airport bar. This stylish spot on the top floor specialises in craft beers and cocktails using spirits from boutique distilleries around the world. It also boasts the mall’s best Happy Hour deals with lagers from Hong Kong brewery Young Master going for S$11 and cocktails starting at S$14 each (3–7pm from Monday to Saturday and all day on Sunday).
A breezy way to spend the afternoon. Photo: The World is Flat
If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a selection of hearty sandwiches like the mouthwatering pastrami melt. Otherwise, order off the Japanese menu of sister restaurant Tanuki Raw, which offers freshly shucked oysters, sashimi and a wide range of signature donburi. For travellers keen to sample the legendary Singapore Sling, there’s a refreshing version here that’s available on draft.
3. Cheers to this luxurious twist on the classic Japanese izakaya
Traditional izakayas, Japan’s answer to the everyman’s pub, are typically cosy joints where guests drink and socialise in close quarters. Not Hitoyoshi Izakaya, which thanks to Jewel’s soaring glass ceilings, feels more like an expansive al fresco diner. Launched in 2022, it’s one of the airport mall’s freshest watering holes, serving up sake and highballs alongside yakitori and sashimi. Other than the quintessential Japanese beers, you’ll also find stouts and even Kirin Ichiban beer slushies to quench your thirst. There are sakes to sate every palate and budget, from friendly housepours to the more premium Dassai bottlings.
You’ll be spoiled for choice with both food and drink here. Photo: Hitoyoshi Izakaya
As for food, the Kushi Mori Yaki (skewers of perfectly grilled meat and vegetables) and Premium Sashimi Moriawase take pride of place. And of course, there’s also drink-friendly bar snacks like deep-fried burdock, grilled stingray fin and even grilled fugu (pufferfish), a Japanese delicacy.
4. Soak up the view at London’s famous surf & turf
Perched at the top of Jewel Changi Airport, Burger & Lobster offers a panoramic view of the world-famous indoor waterfall from its elevated seating area. Sip on innovative cocktails on tap such as the guava margarita fizz comprising tequila blanco, triple sec, guava nectar, grapefruit and watermelon.
Photo: Burger & Lobster
Fancy a pint with your lobster roll? You can’t go wrong with the delicious draft beers from homegrown brewery Brewlander. And when Happy Hour rolls around, you can also get wines at just S$10 per glass.
5. Sample a spicy Latin American cacophony of cuisines and cocktails
Expect Mexican, Peruvian and Argentinian flavours at the lively TONITO Latin American Kitchen. Cocktails run the gamut from classic margaritas to the lesser known Peruvian chilcanito (pisco, lime juice and ginger ale), to the clericot de fruitas, Uruguay’s answer to sangria. For those with a more adventurous palate, the original Spicy Pinarita is a daring combination of Jose cuervo, cointreau, pineapple juice, sweet and sour mix and green habanero.
Ask for a table towards the back of the restaurant where lush plant life, coupled with the cool mist of the waterfall, will transport you to a verdant rainforest.
For our full list of things to try and places to see in Singapore, check out our Singapore City Guide. For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore, visit the official website.
Step into a class of your own with Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) refreshed Premium Economy Class. These changes mark the first major evolution of SIA’s Premium Economy Class experience since the airline introduced this cabin class in 2015.
The latest upgrades come on top of longstanding perks such as priority check-in and boarding and plush, spacious seats that are just as comfortable whether you’re watching your favourite blockbusters on KrisWorld or catching up on sleep. Food and beverage offerings have also been enhanced for Premium Economy Class customers, including new main courses now available for SIA’s exclusive Book the Cook service.
“We have been gathering customer feedback and conducting market research to better understand the evolving expectations for Premium Economy Class travel,” shares Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Yeoh Phee Teik.
Here’s what you can expect, the next time you fly with SIA’s Premium Economy Class:
Savour an all-new in-flight dining experience
Start your journey in style with a glass of Charles de Cazanove Brut Tradition NV Champagne shortly after take-off, then peruse your meal selection on a hard copy menu card.
Tuck into your choice of two premium main courses, which may include dishes new to Premium Economy Class such as beef bourguignon with bacon, mushrooms, vegetables and potato gratin or Asian fare like thai-style crab curry served with a combination of jasmine rice and brown rice, alongside seasonal vegetables with egg.
Savour premium main courses, which include Singapore favourite bak chor mee (minced pork noodles)Thai-style crab curry is another mouth-watering Asian delight now available on Premium Economy Class
You can also look forward to new appetisers like garlic roasted prawns with smoked aioli and patatas bravas (Spanish fried potatoes), broccoli salad with hot smoked salmon and seasonal variations of Japanese cold noodles with soba sauce.
All meals come with upgraded bread choices, which include croissants for breakfast and garlic bread rolls for lunch, dinner and supper. And when dessert is served, enjoy options such as chocolate feuilletine cake and apple crumble cheesecake. What’s more: meals come with a small bar of chocolate alongside quality cheese and crackers.
SIA’s Premium Economy Class in-flight dining just got more appetising
Choose from a wider selection of Book the Cook dishes than ever before
There are also even more reasons to love the popular Book the Cook service (available for booking at least 24 hours before the flight) – customers may now choose from an expanded range of 20 dishes on rotation, for flights departing from Singapore. This includes popular options like Singapore-style seafood hor fun (flat rice noodles with a silky sauce), new additions such as slow braised lamb ragout and plant-based dishes like mushroom eggplant meatballs.
Enjoy all these meals on elegant custom-made porcelain serviceware that is finished with a contemporary stoneware glaze, and silverware wrapped in linen napkins.
Remember to pre-order from the Book the Cook menu at least 24 hours before your flight so you can enjoy dishes like teriyaki salmon donNasi lemak is another popular Book the Cook option
Stay hydrated with a premium beverage selection throughout your flight
Champagne aside, you’ll also enjoy a wider range of complimentary free-flow beverages on board. Wine lovers can choose between the 2023 Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc and the 2022 St Hallett Faith Shiraz, both specially selected by SIA’s panel of wine experts and exclusively available for Premium Economy Class customers.
An extensive selection of spirits including whisky, gin and vodka, signature cocktails like the Singapore Sling and a variety of beers, are also available.
If alcohol is not your, well, cup of tea, there’s also a wide selection of beverages that includes soft drinks, fruit juices, coffee and teas. New additions to this extensive list of options are peppermint and chamomile tea for that caffeine-free wind-down, as well as hot chocolate from Cadbury.
The wine selection available on board are specially curated by SIA's panel of wine expertsTry the new additions to the non-alcoholic menu: peppermint and chamomile tea, as well as hot chocolate from Cadbury
Get comfortable with a brand-new amenity kit from Out of the Woods®
Last but not least, don’t forget to request for your very own amenity kit, available exclusively for Premium Economy Class customers on flights that are seven hours or longer. Designed in collaboration with sustainability-minded brand Out of the Woods®, the kit includes eye shades and slippers made from recycled PET material, as well as lip balm that comes in a biodegradable packaging, to keep you comfortable from top to toe during your journey.
An all-new amenities kit that keeps you feeling refreshed
Premium Economy Class is available on selected SIA flights. For more information on SIA’s Premium Economy Class experience, visit the official website.
There’s always something cooking with Bjorn Shen. Just back from his travels and having recently promoted Netflix’s new Chef’s Uncut – which spotlights the untold original stories of six notable Southeast Asian chefs – the MasterChef Singapore judge is now in the thick of relocating his two restaurants.
Artichoke, a Middle Eastern-inspired eatery that he started in 2010, and four-year-old Small’s, a reservations-only, four-seater outhouse where he serves groundbreaking, off-kilter creations such as steamboat sushi and octopus wontons with cacio e pepe dressing, will be operating out of the new lifestyle enclave New Bahru in leafy River Valley starting in May. Shen also recently helped launch a new market-to-table venture in Penang calledNEP!
When things get too frenetic, Shen escapes to oceanside hotels and unwinds over long scenic drives. But it is ultimately his appetite to taste the world that remains the most captivating fuel for his unceasing travels. Here, he shares how eating his way through Rome’s pizzerias and Tokyo’s curry restaurants has sparked creative breakthroughs like uni-topped pizza.
As a chef, I travel overseas for many reasons. One is, of course, to gain culinary inspiration. For a fast-paced, food-forward trip, I’d hit up the bigger cities like Copenhagen, Dubai, Sydney or Tokyo. There, I’d eat a lot of different things and absorb lots of inspiration.
I just returned from a trip to Rome with my Small’s colleague, to eat our way through some of the best pizzerias in the world. According to 50 Top Pizza, a ranking guide that’s the equivalent to the Michelin Guide for pizzas, many of the world’s top pizzerias are in Rome. So we decided to go there to benchmark our pizzas against the best. We must have eaten about 30 different pizzas in those six days.
The unicorn pizza from Small’s is a conglomeration of uni cream, fresh uni and dried uni bottarga with organic bi-colour corn on a Roman style pizza base. Photo: Bjorn Shen
Neapolitan pizza is currently very trendy around the world, but in my opinion, the sleeper style is the Roman. It’s crunchier and a bit more marshmallowy on the inside. It doesn’t photograph as nicely as its on-trend sibling, but that’s always been my favourite style.
Closer to home, what’s recently captured my attention is the new wave of Japanese curry – a different animal from the traditional Japanese style of roux curry rice that we’re all familiar with. In Tokyo, curry restaurants have taken South Asian curries – from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal – and interpreted them in creative and visually aesthetic ways. I’m fascinated by how they embody the Japanese approach towards new things, and experiencing this inspired my own curry omakase at Small’s. Here are four places that I’d recommend checking out when you’re in the Japanese capital:
1. Karikari Spice Karikari Spice is a female-run 12-seater in Shinsen – one train station away from busy Shibuya – that will give you the sweats. This is uncharacteristic in a country where the spice tolerance is not high. You’ll get Japanese rice with two kinds of mince-based curry separated by a line of pickles.
2. ADI
My favourite of the lot, this Nepalese omakase restaurant by my good friend Kanchan Adhikari marries the fragrance of Nepalese spices with fresh Japanese produce. The savoury courses at ADI culminate in a dal baht presented in Zen-style. They source their seafood from Shizuoka Bay’s celebrity fishmonger Naoki Maeda, who is notably selective about his clientele.
ADI’s dal baht. Photo: Bjorn Shen
3. Ponipirika Ponipirika in the Shimokitazawa neighbourhood specialises in Hokkaido-style soup curry with lots of fresh vegetables. You can customise the spice level to suit your taste and there’s also the chance to try deer hamburg, a unique protein option.
4. Kyuyam-tei Shimokita-sou Kyuyam-tei in Shimokitazawa offers a very interesting way to eat. It serves rice with three types of keema (minced meat), which they vary per day. The flavours are unmistakably Indian, but utilise Japanese ingredients such as bamboo shoot, wood ear mushroom and miso. Towards the end of your meal, they give you a little pitcher of soup-like curry broth, which you stir into what’s left of your dish, making all the flavours come together. Get there early; they don’t take reservations.
At other times, I travel simply to be more productive with the work that I do beyond the kitchen. This could be administrative paperwork, or something more creative, like writing my cookbook. Travelling gets me away from some of my immediate distractions and helps me to focus.
To get productive, Shen recommends a hotel desk with an ocean view. Photo: Shutterstock
The mountains make me feel human and humbled
One time, I checked myself into a hotel overlooking the sea in Gold Coast, Australia. I stayed in my room for those 12 days, ordering room service whenever I needed it. Without being pulled in six different directions – as I usually am back home – I was able to put on my creative hat and revisit some memories in order to flesh out the stories portion of my cookbook.
If I’m travelling for leisure, I always find an opportunity to rent a car and drive out to the countryside, or smaller cities like Takayama or Nagano in Japan – places that are more tranquil. I enjoy the mountains much more than the sea – they make me feel human and humbled, just standing amongst the greatness of nature.
Shen enjoys driving holidays, where the vast expanse of mountains roll by. Photo: Shutterstock
I really enjoy the aesthetic of camping, but I’m a bit too much of a city boy to do the full camping experience. Though I did go on a very nice glamping holiday to Jeju Island at Around Follie.
Eager to try Shen’s food? Artichoke and Small’s are popping up at Homeground Coffee Roasters (15 Teo Hong Road) from 4–30 April, before reopening in May at their new permanent home in New Bahru, an upcoming new lifestyle destination at River Valley.
For our full list of things to try and places to see in Tokyo, check out our Tokyo City Guide. For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore and Tokyo, visit the official website.
As the saying goes: “The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears or the sea.” No doubt many of us find comfort in the sight of a shoreline and a dip in blue waters – even better if it’s a slice of paradise hidden from the crowds. From islands in the Asia Pacific to European getaways, Californian shores and South African spots, here are 11 less-trodden beaches to enjoy solace by the sea.
Asia Pacific
1. For picturesque landmark rocks alongside powder-soft sand
Futamigaura Beach, Fukuoka, Japan Fly to: Fukuoka
Just an hour from Fukuoka City, Itoshima Peninsula is teeming with beaches. If you had to choose only one, head to Futamigaura Beach for its powder-soft sands and azure waters. In particular, visitors come to see two gigantic “husband and wife” rocks connected by a straw rope – best viewed from the shore with the white torii gates framing it.
Aside from its rock formations and white torii gate, Futamigaura Beach is also known for its beautiful sunset view. Photo: Shutterstock
2. For a quiet local beach that’s a breeze to get to
Hermit’s Cove, Cebu, Philippines Fly to: Cebu
With over 7,000 islands, the Philippines is blessed with some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Some like Boracay are known globally, while others remain in the shadows mostly because they’re hard to get to. Those in search of a less trodden beach without it being too much of a trek can head to Hermit’s Cove. Located in Aloguinsan town close to Cebu City, this white sand public beach has a relaxed vibe and offers a glimpse of authentic Filipino life.
3. For a rustic snorkelling spot in a favourite holiday spot
Ao Sane Beach, Phuket, Thailand Fly to: Phuket
The Pearl of the Andaman is already a choice destination amongst beach lovers; now that HBO has announced that the filming of The White Lotus’ latest season is there, it’s bound to be even more so. Avoid the crowds by heading to Ao Sane Beach in southwest Phuket, a discreet rocky beach great for snorkelling. Located down the famous Nai Harn, the sparse onsite facilities help retain its rustic charm that sets it apart from the ultra-groomed shorelines elsewhere.
4. For family-friendly waters ideal for creature-spotting
Little Salmon Bay, Rottnest Island, Western Australia Fly to: Perth
No matter how cute they are, there’s more to Rottnest Island than the quokka. This nature-rich destination off the coast of Perth is home to 63 beautiful beaches such as Little Salmon Bay. Situated in the southernmost tip of the island, this naturally sheltered beach with calm waters appeals to families. Put your snorkels on and explore the healthy coral reefs, or wait for the rare Australian sea lions to make an appearance – they love to sunbathe here.
Little Salmon Bay’s waters are calm and safe for families. Photo: Shutterstock
5. For an enchanting inky shore with views of snow-capped mountains
Black Pebble Beach, Kaikoura, New Zealand Fly to: Christchurch
This stretch of dramatic ebony sand doesn’t get a lot of airtime outside New Zealand, but you can’t blame the locals for wanting to keep this area to themselves. Located north of Kaikoura close to Kekerengu town, the mysterious Black Pebble Beach has dark stones up close and you can also see the Alps at a distance. Apart from being visually stunning, it’s also a good place for spotting wild seals.
6. For a pristine private island escape
Soneva Secret, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives Fly to: Maldives
If you’re looking for an indulgent yet serene beach escape, it’s hard to beat the Maldives. Now this is a bit of an open secret: luxury hotel brand Soneva chose a secluded island on the remote Haa Dhaalu Atoll to create their newest resort – Soneva Secret. Opening in March, their barefoot luxury ethos is on full display on this private island, which is home to 14 rooms and the country’s first and only floating villa. How’s that for exclusive?
Europe
7. For the perfect dive after a coastal drive
Punta Aderci, Abruzzo, Italy Fly to: Rome
Sicily and Sardinia aren’t the only places in Italy with golden sands and emerald waters. Punta Aderci in Abruzzo also has beaches embraced by rugged cliffs; they’re so gorgeous that National Geographic named it as one of the best in the country. Plus, the breathtaking coastline of the natural reserve of Punta Aderci is perfect for a drive, hike or cycle if you’re looking for more than beachcombing.
Take a dip in the waters of Punta Aderci after a hike or a drive. Photo: Shutterstock
8. For waters so clear, it wins awards
Tisvildeleje Beach, Tisvilde, Denmark Fly to: Copenhagen
Unbeknownst to many, Copenhagen has a thriving swimming culture. Drive 45 minutes from the city and you’ll find Tisvilde, a coastal village that’s home to the family-friendly Tisvildeleje Beach, part of the Danish Riviera. The sandy beach enjoys a backdrop of traditional colourful houses, and was given a Blue Flag Award for its crystal clear waters.
The cheery beach huts of Tisvildeleje Beach. Photo: Shutterstock
9. For a hidden cove in a well-loved beach destination
Cala Sa Sabolla, Costa Brava, Spain Fly to: Barcelona
Itching for a beach day whilst in Barcelona? Skip the chiringuitos (small beach bars) in the urban beaches and make the two-hour drive to Costa Brava. This well-developed tourist spot still has a trove of isolated beaches, and none are as wonderful as the secluded Cala Sa Sabolla. Accessible only by foot via a coastal hike or a boat ride, the cala (which means ‘cove’ in Catalan) features a dramatic drop and shimmering waters that feel like a world away.
United States
10. For a shoreline so majestic, photographers flock to it
El Matador State Beach, Malibu, USA Fly to: Los Angeles
Malibu may be known for its celebrity mansions, but its natural surroundings are even more impressive. Check out the magnificent El Matador State Beach – a large expanse of coast dotted with towering, sculptural rock formations. Considered one of the best beaches in Southern California, it draws plenty of photographers but still feels like a hidden gem as its sparse facilities keep the crowds away.
The sculptural rock formations of El Matador State Beach. Photo: Shutterstock
Africa
11. For winds strong enough to kite-surf
Platboom Beach, Cape Point, South Africa Fly to: Cape Town
Cape Town boasts dozens of spectacular beaches, but if you’re looking for a remote beach that’s still relatively accessible from the city, the white sand Platboom Beach is your best bet. Located 65 kilometres from the centre, this is one of the wildest and unspoilt beaches in Cape Point where you can enjoy postcard-perfect views and if you’re more adventurous, a kite-surfing session too.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to the above destinations, visit the official website.
At 2am, the streets in wintery Shimonoseki are mostly deserted. However, for the staff and buyers at Haedomari Market, on the western reaches of the city, the day has just begun. This is Japan’s only fish market dedicated to fugu, the highly prized – and highly poisonous – pufferfish. From here, this legendary Japanese delicacy travels to restaurants and markets across the country.
Lying 90 km northeast of Fukuoka, Shimonoseki has always been an important crossroads for people, goods and culture. Being Honshu Island’s most westerly point, Shimonoseki has been the closest port of call for Korean people and culture for centuries and today boasts a large Korean diaspora. The city is the gateway to the Seto Inland Sea, making it critical to both international and domestic shipping. Its coastal geography also makes it a thriving fishing port.
In many ways, Causeway Bay represents the beating heart of Hong Kong. For fashionistas, Hysan Place, Times Square, and other glitzy malls and indie shops provide endless options for retail therapy. Meanwhile, foodies can enjoy eating their way through hole-in-the-wall cafes and Michelin-starred restaurants alike. Even Victoria Park – one of the island’s largest public parks – is often a hotbed of activity, with tai chi sessions happening at sunrise and lively festive markets taking over the grounds during the holiday seasons.
From dawn to dusk, the neighbourhood bursts with vibrant energy that’s synonymous with the city. But round a corner, step through a pair of glass doors, and the hustle and bustle immediately melt away.
The classic, understated lobby sets the tone for your stay at Lanson Place Causeway Bay. Photo: Lanson Place Causeway Bay
A sanctuary in the heart of the city
From the moment you enter the lobby of the recently reopened Lanson Place Causeway Bay, you are enveloped in a sense of quiet elegance. Adorned with curved lines, soothing hues of blues and creams, and artworks sourced from private collections, it’s clear that every detail of the hotel has been meticulously reimagined.
Lanson Place’s new concept is unveiled following a 16-month renovation, and it’s guided by the vision of world-renowned interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. As the mastermind behind other stunning properties around the world – including The Savoy Hotel London, Shangri-La Hotel Paris, and the L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon restaurants – his timeless design philosophy is on full display here.
Catch some blissful Z’s at one of the blue-, green- or yellow-themed rooms after a long day. Photo: Lanson Place Causeway Bay
The ultimate home away from home
This small luxury hotel boasts 188 rooms, including suites and penthouses for those looking to indulge in an extended stay. Each one is thoughtfully built with style and comfort in mind, as plush lounges nestle next to furnishings crafted with high-quality natural materials. After a long day of exploring the city or attending meetings, what better way to unwind than to sink into a comfy bed with some essential oils, spa music and a pillow of your choice?
Another thing to love is Lanson Place’s commitment to sustainability. Not only are the key cards made of wood, in-room amenities such as bottled drinking water and toothbrushes are also plastic-free.
Be charmed by the decor, food and service at Salon Lanson. Photo: Lanson Place Causeway Bay
Breakfast – and more – at a Tiffany Blue lounge
While there are plenty of dining options around the hotel, its own restaurant, Salon Lanson, is no slouch. Opened from 6.30 am to 11 pm, it goes from offering semi-buffet style breakfast to lunch and dinner before becoming a cocktail bar. Of note is the canapes set; available for evening cocktails between 5.30 pm and 7.30pm, it features delicious bites like poached prawn and egg topped with caviar and spicy aioli, and Kahlúa chocolate mousse.
Cocktails at Salon Lanson. Photo: Lanson Place Causeway Bay
Its cocktail menu, too, is intriguing. Printed on an illustrated postcard that the concierge can help you mail out afterwards, it features drinks inspired by Causeway Bay’s lesser-known history. To celebrate its reopening, it’s serving a series of seven expertly crafted signature cocktails themed around Hong Kong’s esteemed landmarks. Try its signature cocktail Leighton 133, named after the hotel’s address; or The Little Ginza, a nod to the area’s old nickname, back when several major Japanese department stores were located there. The menu changes every seven days, so you can look forward to trying something new each time.
Unlike many hotel gyms, the one here feels almost Zen-like. Photo: Lanson Place Causeway Bay
Re-energise in style
If you’re looking to recharge your mind and body, Lanson Place’s fitness centre is not only equipped with contemporary facilities, but also designed to feel like a modern oasis with views over Victoria Park. On top of that, a roster of complimentary wellness workshops, from breathwork to gong therapy, are also provided for hotel guests during the weekend.
The hotel’s excellent location makes it the ideal choice for both tourists and business travellers. Photo: Lanson Place Causeway Bay
For travellers seeking to be fully immersed in Hong Kong’s dynamic culture, Lanson Place offers the perfect blend of sophistication, comfort and hospitality, making it the ultimate base from which to explore the wonders of Causeway Bay and beyond.
The renowned three Michelin-starred sushi omakase restaurant, Sushi Takahashi of Tokyo, has opened its first international location at Mohamed Sultan Road. Venture through the entrance and past a Zen Japanese garden to reveal a minimalist dining space with a mere dozen counter seats.
The sushi takes centre stage here – Takahashi prioritises sourcing fresh ingredients directly from various Japanese regions, with a particular focus on Hokkaido. Each delicate morsel is a harmony of seafood and sushi rice prepared with natural spring water from the Yamagata prefecture. Standouts include the menuke, a deep sea rock fish from Hokkaido torched with charcoal and served with ginger, and ankimo, fresh monkfish liver from Hokkaido marinated and aged in Chef Rinto’s secret sauce for two weeks. The latter is a luscious pâté that explodes sweet and umami on the tongue.
This article is part of Singapore Airlines’“Beyond the Cabin Season 2”video series, in which cabin crew unveil experiences in their favourite destinations.
Most people associate adventure with outdoor activities, but in perennially sunny Singapore, it’s sometimes necessary to seek respite in the shade. Fortunately, the tropical city offers a wide array of fun-filled indoor experiences, from rock climbing to skydiving (yes, you read that right!).
Just ask Singapore Airlines cabin crew member Matt Joosa, who enjoys discovering all that the Lion City has to offer. “There are always new indoor activities in Singapore. I try to be creative on my off days, as there are so many places to explore,” he says.
Here, Matt takes us on a fun-filled tour of the great indoors of Singapore.
Adelaide isn’t just one of Australia’s most approachable capital cities – it’s also home to a range of iconic experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Wedged between golden beaches and the lush Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia’s largest city beckons travellers with unforgettable wildlife encounters, lip-smacking culinary adventures and artistic masterpieces waiting to be discovered around every corner. Here are seven iconic experiences to tick off on your next visit.
1. Cuddle a koala
Though just half an hour’s drive from the city centre, there’s a distinctly rural feel to Sequoia Lodge where 14 exquisite suites are perched above an idyllic valley of mixed farmland and eucalyptus forest filled with native wildlife. Guest experiences include guided bushwalks which provide an excellent opportunity to meet the neighbours.
Enjoy a private audience with a koala on a tour through Sequoia Lodge. Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission
But if you want to guarantee an animal sighting, book a private tour of Cleland Wildlife Park. Visiting before it opens to the public gives you some one-on-one time with iconic Australian species including kangaroos, emus and echidnas. Then finish the tour with a photo op and a proper cuddle with one of the fluffy resident koalas.
2. Attend a masterclass in native Australian ingredients
Know how to tell saltbush from samphire? What about the difference between a Davidson plum and a desert lime? If you’re completely lost, don’t fear. In addition to being one of the nation’s best fine diners, Restaurant Botanic offers a crash course in native Australian botanicals.
Native Australian botanicals get the fine dining treatment at Restaurant Botanic. Photo: Restaurant Botanic
Many ingredients are harvested from the 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Gardens before service, and with only 34 seats, the staff take pride in explaining the provenance and use of these ingredients to every diner.
Add in some thoughtful and startlingly complex beverages – think blood lime consommé with native thyme and roasted bunya bunya branches – and you have Australia on a plate.
3. Get comfortable with an Australian fashion icon
Worn by farmers and prime ministers alike, the RM Williams Chelsea boot is an instantly recognisable Australian icon. So durable that they’re sometimes passed down through generations, each boot is crafted from a single piece of leather that is stretched, shaped and stitched by hand in Adelaide’s northern suburbs.
Every RM Williams boot is still made by hand. Photo: The Tailor
You can meet some of the craftsmen and see them at work on a private tour of the facility, then visit the showroom where brand ambassador Rita Stenta will fit you for a pair of boots so you can walk away wearing a piece of Australian craftsmanship.
4. Admire art from the world’s oldest living culture
Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have called this land home for more than 60,000 years, and that rich culture is on full display at the Art Gallery of South Australia. In addition to the must-see exhibitions during the annual Tarnanthi Festival, the rich permanent collection showcases the stunning breadth of Australia’s many Aboriginal cultures.
Vibrant desert dot art, intricate cross-hatched bark paintings from Australia’s tropical north and satirical mixed media works from across the country highlight the striking vision and ongoing strength of the world’s oldest, continuous living culture.
The Art Gallery of South Australia was the first state gallery in Australia to include work by Aboriginal artists in its collection. Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission
5. Catch a game of Aussie Rules
Few sports globally can match the sheer athleticism (and chaos) of Australian Rules Football. At any given time, 36 players are chasing an oval-shaped ball across the turf, laying bone-crunching tackles and leaping over each other to take spectacular marks.
Port Adelaide Power and the Adelaide Crows both play home games at Adelaide Oval. Photo: Port Adelaide Football Club
It’s an exhilarating spectacle when viewed from the boundary line at the Adelaide Oval. And when 50,000 screaming fans fill the stadium every weekend in winter, the RoofClimb gives you a unique perspective on the action from a seat 50m aboveground.
6. Take home Australia’s national gemstone
Forget ice; when it comes to gemstones, fire is what’s in. That’s what jewellers call the iridescence that flashes across the face of cut opals. Every stone has a unique fingerprint of sparkling blue, red, green and yellow light, making it one of the most sought-after gems in the world.
95% of the world’s opal is mined in Australia’s outback. Photo: Unique Opal Mine
At Unique Opal Mine, you can watch opal-cutting demonstrations and learn about the different types of opal at a museum designed to resemble an underground mine. Once you’ve settled on a favourite, you can pick up a souvenir from a showroom filled with hundreds of rings, pendants and necklaces.
7. Embark on a vinous journey
South Australia’s 18 grape-growing regions produce more than three quarters of the nation’s premium wine, and you can sample the very best the state has to offer without leaving the CBD.
Among the 15,000 bottles at East End Cellars, you’ll find lean, mineral-driven Clare Valley riesling and elegant sparkling from the Adelaide Hills, juicy McLaren Vale grenache and sumptuous old vine shiraz from the Barossa Valley.
The outdoor seats at East End Cellars have some of the best people-watching in Adelaide. Photo: East End Cellars
Not sure where to start? Let the knowledgeable staff point you in the right direction. Hosted tastings on Friday and Saturday evenings provide an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the best local winemakers.
For our full list on things to do and places to see in Adelaide, check out our Adelaide City Guide. For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Adelaide, visit the official website.
Solo travel is one of the best gifts anyone, but especially women, can give themselves. And as these female travel founders know, it’s even easier today when there’s so much help available to plan a solo trip, design bespoke itineraries and even meet fellow travellers on your journey.
From Singapore to South Korea and Canada, these pioneering women are changing the travel landscape, not only for female travellers but for the women-owned businesses and initiatives they partner. All are dedicated to empowering women to discover more of the world, and themselves, through travel.
To mark International Women’s Day on 8 March, they share their favourite travel memories, and what solo travel has taught them.
Jennifer Haddow, owner of Wild Women Expeditions
Runs the world’s largest adventure travel company for women
Jennifer Haddow’s travels with Wild Women Expeditions were life-changing in more ways than one: she became such a fan of the all-female tour operator, she bought it.
“My passion has always been women’s empowerment,” says Haddow. “I knew travel could be a powerful way to give women sustainable livelihoods, especially in parts of the world where opportunities are limited.”
One of Haddow's most memorable solo travels was trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. Photo: Wild Women ExpeditionsJennifer Haddow, owner of Wild Women Expeditions, en-route at Everest Base Camp, Nepal. Photo: Wild Women Expeditions
Travelling solo empowers you to take on new challenges and adventures that you’d never have thought possible
Since its start in Canada in 1991, Wild Women Expeditions has not only offered all-female tours but hired female guides, enlisted women-owned partners and supported women-led initiatives wherever possible.
Its itineraries include everything from weaving classes in Peru to treks across Japan. The focus, regardless of programme, is to create inclusive, supportive environments for women to thrive.
“Our guides around the world are incredibly talented and it is an honour to work with women who are changing their communities and giving back to other women,” says Haddow. “We are truly a global sisterhood.”
What benefits does travelling solo offer women?
“Travelling solo pushes you out of your comfort zone and empowers you to take on new challenges and adventures that you’d never have thought possible. Solo travel is also an independent journey physically, mentally and emotionally. It’s total freedom to challenge yourself and do what you’ve been dreaming of without being influenced by anyone else.
Trekking along the Nakasendo trail in Japan is but one of many journeys that Wild Women Expeditions organises for women. Photo: Shutterstock
“That’s why Wild Women Expeditions exists. You may travel solo but you’re never alone! We’ll match solo travellers with a roommate, and don’t charge a single supplements fee. You’ll have an instant group of built-in companions. The bonds that develop between women as they push and challenge themselves to new adventures is a beautiful thing, and always results in a few tears, lots of laughter and stories that last a lifetime.”
The bonds that develop always results in a few tears, lots of laughter and stories that last a lifetime
What was your most memorable solo journey?
“Trekking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal was one. Watching the sun rise over the highest point on the planet was a life-changing moment. It is incredibly inspiring to be led by local women, who are amazing guides and can tell the story of their country and share their culture.
“When I travel I am always most excited to meet local women and learn from them. I remember sitting with a group of Egyptian women on a mango farm on the banks of the Nile, sharing hibiscus tea with the grandmother and mother and aunties and daughters in their village home. The pyramids were fantastic, but it is connecting with the local people that is most heartwarming.”
Hyojeong Kim, founder of NomadHer
Built an app to connect female globetrotters
Founded in South Korea, NomadHer is a travel app exclusively for women. Once verified, women can connect with more than 150,000 others to share travel tips, arrange meet-ups and support each other’s journeys.
NomadHer founder Hyojeong Kim on Arambol Beach in Goa. Photo: Hyojeong Kim
The independence gained from navigating foreign environments alone is invaluable
“At 19, I had a troubling experience with a Couchsurfing host, which propelled me to action,” shares NomadHer’s founder Hyojeong Kim. “I sought a community where women could support each other on the adventures that they embark on and share ideas for safe travels.”
Propelled by this experience, in 2019 Kim decided to create an app that would make it easier for female travellers to connect with one another for safety, solidarity and companionship. Since then, NomadHer has organised more than 1,000 meet-ups, such as hikes and surf camps, and its members represent more than 180 nationalities.
Krystal Tan, founder of Blue Sky Escapes
Merges the physical and spiritual aspects of travel
Whether it’s horse riding with nomadic tribes in Mongolia or a silent retreat in Laos (an especially popular choice among solo female travellers), Singapore-based travel consultancy Blue Sky Escapes spurs travellers out of their comfort zones, helping them learn more about themselves in the process.
Krystal Tan, founder of Blue Sky Escapes. Photo: Krystal Tan
Travelling solo opens you up to the magic of spontaneity and self-discovery
For founder Krystal Tan, solo travel often inspires personal and spiritual growth. “I have experienced first-hand the shifts in my own worldviews after an experiential journey, and it always leaves me with renewed perspective and clarity,” she says.
“In 2016, I worked with a ground partner to craft an experience in Mongolia where we would be the first foreigners to help several nomadic families migrate their animals to their summer location, on horseback. We camped in remote places that even our guides had never visited, helped the families set up their gers and sat in the meadows with them drinking vodka, eating fermented cheese and enjoying the banter. This experience made me realise we really don’t need very much to feel fulfilled. It was also one of the pivotal moments that drove me to take the plunge and leave law practice to focus on Blue Sky Escapes. I wanted to design experiences that could prompt similar shifts in others.”
Horseback riding across the plains of Mongolia is one of the many experiences that Blue Sky Escapes organises. Photo: Blue Sky Escapes
My time alone was my chance to integrate and embody all those experiences into one unified whole
How has travelling solo changed you?
“Travelling solo opens you up to the magic of spontaneity and self-discovery. My first solo trip after having a baby was to Botswana. I was still breastfeeding, so I had to pump and freeze milk as I travelled, and I missed my baby when I saw lionesses with their cubs. Being away from my newborn, in a remote, natural habitat gave me the chance to process becoming a mother – after an unmedicated, 27-hour labour, months of sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, and then juggling all of that with a return to work, I had found myself questioning my identity.
“I shed tears when our guide cleansed my energy with wild sage, as was the custom in his tribe.It’s believed the fragrant smoke helps cleanse the mind, body and soul of stagnant energy that does not serve you. I was confronted with all the baggage I had brought along with me, yet also felt an overriding sense of peace, which moved me to tears. My time alone in Botswana was my chance to integrate and embody all those experiences into one unified whole. I found I was better able to accept it all as a part of me without any resistance, and returned home more enlivened and invigorated.”
Tan photographs a mountain gorilla in the wild in Rwanda. Photo: Krystal Tan
What was your most memorable solo journey?
“My most memorable journey was the time we tracked endangered mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda. It’s incredible how much of yourself you recognise in these intelligent beings – their hands, facial features, mannerisms. It’s a strange, charged connection words can’t fully capture. A truly humbling and grounding experience I’ll never forget, and certainly one that calls for protecting these animals.”
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to the abovementioned destinations, visit the official website.
Known for its rich multicultural heritage and strong hawker food culture, this Malaysian metropolis has its fair share of returning fans. Now, there are even more reasons to visit thanks to the chefs, hoteliers and creatives that are integrating the city’s storied past with contemporary appeal in their respective fields.
Here are nine exciting things across Kuala Lumpur to bookmark for your next visit.
1. Wake up and paint at this boutique hotel
This one is for the art lovers, and those with a curious spirit. Kloé Hotel is an 88-key stay in the heart of the city, where each of its five suites is decked out in a unique concept: plant lovers can pick the lushly furnished Room to Grow; music enthusiasts will enjoy the Room to Listen, which comes with a vinyl player and records; while the artsy creatives will love the Room to Draw where an easel and canvas, along with a selection of art books, await your touch.
Live your artist dreams in the Room to Draw. Photo: Kloé Hotel
There are ample other spaces to unwind in the hotel, like at the poolside deck chairs, or in the light-filled hotel lobby. Nurse a flat white at the communal table, or flip through the selection of coffee table books before heading out to explore the many nearby malls.
2. Float and find meditative peace in bustling Chinatown
You’d be hard pressed to find another city hotel that boasts floatation pods as part of their facilities, but at Else Kuala Lumpur, you’ll be able to book a session alongside your stay. These 30- or 60-minute sessions in tanks filled with highly concentrated Epsom salt water will cocoon you in a meditative state as you disconnect from the stressors of daily life.
Let your thoughts float away as you lose track of time and space within the floatation pod. Photo: Else Kuala Lumpur
This stylishly designed 49-room boutique hotel also comes with a well-equipped gym and a terrace plunge pool with roomy daybeds.
When you’re done reconnecting with yourself, step outside and you’ll find the famed shopping belt Petaling Street, cultural hubs Central Market and REXKL at your doorstep – not to mention the hip bars and street eats of Chinatown.
3. Experience a visually stunning art exhibition in a new creative venue
Where the beloved REX Cinema once stood, this immersive art gallery is now a part of REXKL, one of KL’s newest cultural hotspots housing a trendy mix of vintage, clothing and lifestyle stores, a labyrinthine bookstore and a rooftop bar.
REXPERIENCE is co-founded by new media veterans Shin Tseng, Sébastien Jurkowski, Shin Chang and Eugene Yeo, who are creating fascinating new art experiences with the use of latest projection technologies.
REXPERIENCE is a visually stunning contemporary exhibition space in the new cultural hub REXKL. Photo: REXPERIENCE
Here, you can enjoy atmospheric environments created by international visual and sound effects artists, such as the currently showing “Piying Dream” by Danny Rose Studio. This production draws inspiration from the art of Chinese shadow puppetry to invent a Chinese legend that viewers can immerse in. Exhibitions rotate every few months, so that you’ll always have something new to look forward to.
4. Make like the cool kids and hang out with the creatives at this urban hub
Composed from a row of refurbished interconnected shophouses, The Zhongshan Building is a creative hub in the historic locale of Kampung Attap that a community of young artists, artisans and musicians call home.
Enjoy an afternoon wandering through the building discovering bites and local goods. Here, you can enjoy a fan-favourite espresso martini Shakeratoooo from Piu Piu Piu and savour café treats such as the roast ribeye steak sandwich at the French-inspired Tommy Le Baker, who make their own sourdough bread.
Peek into the quirky interior of Piu Piu Piu. Photo: Michelle JN Lim
Then, shop at artisanal craft stores like stationery wonderland ana tomy and embroidery crafts store takos. Modern apothecary Re{me}dy not only stocks skincare and wellness products, but is also where you’ll find lifestyle goods such as the naturally dyed bags from local brand Muni.
At sundown, enjoy listening parties of diverse music genres at fono. Do note that the opening hours of the establishments vary, so follow them on social media to get the latest news.
5. Discover local indie brands at a pop-up market
The Sunny Side Up Market is a weekend pop-up market located at Slate @ The Row along Jalan Doraisamy. It is a one-stop destination for an alternative shopping spree that even your pets can get in on.
Vendors at the Sunny Side Up Market. Photo: Sunny Side Up Market
Founded by Aida Salleh more than a decade ago, the urban flea market features local brands and small home businesses that sell a range of curious alternative goods from handmade cheese to plant-based toiletries, as well as treats and accessories for pets. This pop-up community market occurs every month, so check ahead and time your visit accordingly.
6. Choose your own adventure at this interactive horror house
Unlike the escape rooms of yesteryear, Hauntu combines live theatrical performances and participant role play to transport you to a multi-sensorial world where vengeful spirits reign.
Prepare for a chilling time. Photo: Hauntu
In this 60-minute interactive game, you’ll be transported to the past at the fictional Colle Eastern Hotel, where you’ll uncover evil agendas and make decisions that result in a unique end each time. These episodic storylines change yearly, but one thing rings true: these tales are not for the faint of heart.
7. Explore contemporary Peranakan eats
Tuck into hearty traditional meals featuring flavours influenced by the Peranakan community – also known as the Straits Chinese – at this farm-to-table restaurant. Bōl is stationed in a colonial-era terrace house in Bukit Bintang, a lively neighbourhood bristling with pre-war houses, boutiques, hipster cafes and restaurants, so you’ll get a taste of history in more ways than one.
Contemporary takes on traditional Peranakan dishes. Photo: Bōl
Against the backdrop of a beautiful bucolic wallpaper reminiscent of Peranakan floral motifs, enjoy signature dishes such as the Peranakan staple buah keluak (pangium fruit), lamb shank and itek tim, a crystal-clear pulled duck consommé with sour plums. For dessert, try the hawthorn flavoured sorbet with gula melaka (palm sugar).
8. Check out the new French fine dining kid on the block
Venture off the beaten path to Bamboo Hills, a hip dining enclave a short drive away from the city centre, to discover one of the most exciting new openings in the city of late. Potager is chef Masashi Horiuchi’s – of Entier fame – latest brainchild. Here, he brings his decades of French culinary techniques to bear on Malaysia’s quality produce.
Chef Masashi Horiuchi. Photo: PotagerThe breezy inner courtyard of Potager. Photo: Potager
Their recently launched menu is a strong showing that includes Cameron Highlands-grown white corn tuile, jelly, velouté and cornbread that burst with natural sweetness, and truffle-laden escargot with heirloom grain from Sarawak (go with the chef-recommended black glutinous rice).
The breezy experience starts with a stop at the beautiful open-air garden, around which the restaurant’s wine bar, four private dining rooms and main space are organised, and ends with a little souvenir of the experience to take home. The latter includes a serving of cacao husk and osmanthus tea, alongside travel-sized amenities with notes of tomato, basil and black pepper – the restaurant’s signature scent that reminds of hearth and home.
Potager now takes lunch reservations from Fridays to Sundays. Choose between a five- or nine-course meal; reservations are essential.
9. Nerd out with a sustainability-forward cocktail bar
Styling themselves as a flavour lab, Reka:Bar makes use of state-of-the-art distillation and fermentation equipment to create ground-breaking cocktails for patrons looking to kick back and experiment with local-themed drinks amidst its futuristic atmosphere located in Bukit Damansara.
Titled “The Domino Effect”, its signature cocktail menu illustrates how the various drinks are connected to one another. For instance, the main ingredient of one drink is reused as a garnish in another, dialling down on wastage.
They also champion the use of responsibly sourced local ingredients through drinks like Liquid Ambra (made with buah long long, a local sour fruit) and Dusun 2.0 (which uses traditional Sarawakian rice wine tuak, chilli padi and jackfruit).
For our full list on things to do and places to see in Kuala Lumpur, check out our Kuala Lumpur City Guide. For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Kuala Lumpur, visit the official website.
This article is part of Singapore Airlines’ 
