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Did you know that Johannesburg has a Little Italy in Montecasino? The entertainment complex and shopping mall in the residential area of Fourways is designed to look just like a Tuscan village, complete with a permanent sky installation and cobblestone floors. It’s here where you’ll find the Palazzo at Montecasino.
At this five-star hotel, Tuscan-style opulence lies in the details. Think marbled floors and earth-toned decor with pops of gold, alongside ornate baths and chandeliers. That’s not to mention the award-winning spa, easy access to top restaurants and bars, a casino and theatre. Lastly, nature lovers should not miss a stroll through the Montecasino bird gardens, home to more than 1,000 birds, mammals and more.
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel is a little bubble of calm and peace in Sandton, one of Africa’s wealthiest suburbs. What was once a sprawling private estate is now a luxury five-star hotel where you can wander around lush gardens, enjoy a massage at the award-winning spa or partake in high tea and champagne. Of course, you could also just while away the time in one of their 41 capacious, individually themed guest suites.
If you want to venture beyond your Fairlawns sanctuary, there’s world-class shopping and dining in Sandton City, as well as a great rooftop bar at Katy’s Palace just up the road in Kramerville.
There’s no better place to stay than here, for those looking to understand the legacy and life of the former President of South Africa more deeply. This boutique hotel located in the old-money suburb of Houghton, a short distance from the modern Melrose Arch centre and Rosebank district, was once the man’s own home. It’s now owned and operated by The Nelson Mandela Foundation. There are just nine rooms, each themed around aspects of his life and furnished in a blend of nationalistic ‘Springbok’ green, brown and deep yellow hues.
Among the many historical touches is a modest wooden green bench where he enjoyed his newspapers and a framed piece of original music gifted to Mandela by American music legend Quincey Jones. The restaurant offers a tight menu of Mandela’s favourites, curated and prepared by his former private chef.
Despite being located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Causeway Bay, Lanson Place offers a tranquil retreat from Hong Kong’surban bustle. Recently renovated by renowned designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, their 188 rooms exude French-inspired timeless charm.
There are plenty of culinary options in this neighbourhood, but the in-house Salon Lanson also provides dependable all-day service. This includes culinary delights like poached prawn and egg topped with caviar during evening cocktails. For those who imbibe, explore staples on the themed cocktail menu such as the Leighton 133 and The Little Ginza, both of which reference the hotel’s address and neighbourhood area.
Global demand for Champagne surged post-pandemic, with sales topping a record S$8.78 billion in 2022. And although some of that ardour has cooled since then, this prestige sparkling wine continues to enjoy its moment in Singapore. “Champagne has evolved beyond celebratory toasts and milestones,” comments Machelo Tagala, sommelier at ATLAS bar, which houses one of Asia’s largest collections of gins and Champagnes in Asia. “There’s been an emerging trend of enjoying it casually, independent of a specific occasion.”
Bars and restaurants are also going beyond the marquee houses like Dom Pérignon and Krug and adding a spectrum of smaller, lesser-known producers to their menus. Here are some of the best spots in the city to dive into the world of premium bubbly.
1. Singapore’s first specialist Champagne bar
Where better to begin the journey than Convivial, a wine bar dedicated to all things bubbly? Launched in 2023 by sommelier Yeo Xi Yang, its arched ceilings and minimalist interiors evoke the chalky caves of Champagne. The wine list is deep as it is extensive, ranging from the connoisseur-beloved Salon Cuvée ‘S’ Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut 1990 to the stylistically rare Laherte Frères Les 7 Solera Extra Brut NV.
“We want to represent the Champagne region to the best we can – from the esteemed and revered houses to the farmers who toil the vineyards and make artisanal Champagnes with the little that they have,” says Yeo.
The Champagne is always flowing at Convivial. Photo: Convivial
For those who prefer not to commit to a whole bottle, there’s also an impressive array of nine Champagnes available by the glass, including the Krug Grande Cuvée 171ème.
Convivial’s eclectic culinary menu provides a range of pairing options, from classic charcuterie to the Asian-inspired tako karaage (deep fried octopus). “I like to explore different food pairings with the variety of styles that Champagne has, and lately I have been enjoying zippy and racy Blanc de Blancs with crispy fried frog’s legs,” Yeo shares.
2. A natural wine bar with a Champagne list that centres sustainability
Wine RVLT might not seem like an obvious choice for Champagne, given that they are better known for their organic and biodynamic wines. But as industry peer Davis Tan – Michelin-recommended FOOL’s head sommelier – remarks, “Not only is Wine RVLT a pioneer of organic and biodynamic wines in Singapore and the industry’s watering hole, they also have an impressive Champagne list.”
A whole wall, in fact. Naturally, the selection reflects the bar’s ethos of sustainability, featuring Champagne by Elise Dechannes and biodynamic producer Francis Boulard. “Champagne made with biodynamic and organic grapes will soon be normalised,” predicts co-founder Ian Lim. “Being ecological is a social responsibility and not a trend.”
Co-founders Alvin Gho and Ian Lim against their wine wall. Photo: Wine RVLT
“Champagne made with biodynamic and organic grapes will soon be normalised. Being ecological is a social responsibility and not a trend”
While the Champagne region is obviously best known for its sparkling wine, don’t be surprised if you’re invited to try Lelarge-Pugeot’s Coteaux Champenois, a little-known still wine that’s been capturing the attention of sommeliers in recent years. It’s all a sign of the trend that co-founder Alvin Gho believes to be “the shift from sparkling to still wines”.
“Due to global warming, and the fact that Côte de Bar is the southernmost region of Champagne – compounding factors that create a more ideal environment for grape ripening which impacts the quality of wines – Coteaux Champenois is looking really good these days,” says Gho.
3. An exclusive wine bar with sparkling wines from exciting regions
Park90 at Conrad Singapore Orchard is a sophisticated wine bar with a membership programme which offers enthusiasts exclusive access to rare and limited release wines. Needless to say, its wine list is spectacular, with a well-curated by-the-glass menu and a comprehensive collection of Champagne. Sitting snug alongside familiar players like Charles Heidsieck, are under-the-radar producers like Francis Boulard and Champagne Marguet that are ripe for discovery.
Park90 is not to be missed for the serious oenophile. Photo: Conrad Singapore Orchard
The elegant lounge is also an ideal place for trying notable sparkling wines from other regions. Group wine director Mason Ng says, “Hokkaido is the next up-and-coming region. I’ve paid several visits to its vineyards, and I see a great potential there as it shares many similarities to the Champagne region. Producers like Yamazaki Winery and Niseko Winery are particularly good and quite different in style.”
“Hokkaido is the next up-and-coming region. It shares many similarities to the Champagne region”
On where he likes to go for Champagne, Ng says, “Restaurant Matera’s bar is pouring a range of Champagnes at S$100 a bottle and serves bar snacks, casual bistro food and fine dining fare at a fraction of what you’d normally pay elsewhere. S$18 for a cacio e pepe or S$48 for an abalone donabe (Japanese-style claypot rice) for two!”
4. A retro funk bar by an acclaimed chef
Established by two-Michelin-starred Cloudstreet’s Rishi Naleendra, FOOL is a distinctive bar on buzzy Boon Tat Street that’s made a name for its playful, unconventional approach to wine. The relaxed, ’70s retro-tinged space, paired with a playlist of funk, disco and jazz, sets the mood for an evening of vino complemented with eclectic plates by chef Naleendra.
Boon Tat Street is lined with trendy dining spots like FOOL. Photo: FOOL
Navigating a menu of more than 300 wines might seem intimidating, but the personable head sommelier Davis Tan is always on hand to recommend a bubbly. He notes a rise in interest towards exploring wine producers with sustainable, transparent farming practices. “One interesting bottle is N.V. Laculle Frères Val Moignot Bertil Andersson ‘Extra Brut’, a 100% Pinot Blanc Champagne by a sustainable producer from Côte des Bar,” he says. “A deviation from the three main Champagne grapes (Chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier), this is a composition you rarely see. It’s a softer and more delicate style of Champagne and pairs well with our crumbed Japanese saba with yuzukosho tartar sauce.”
A few of the sparkling options available by the glass. Photo: FOOL
Besides FOOL, Tan recommends “Nicolas Le Restaurant, a small French bistro that has one of the most comprehensive French cellars in town, enough to make any wine professional geek out.” He adds. “Recently, I had a 2009 Francis Boulard & Fille Les Rachais Rosé ‘Extra Brut’ which was exceptional. It is a Saignée-style Champagne rosé where the skins were allowed to macerate in the juice for some time before being pressed, creating an intensely fruit-driven yet savoury wine. Superbly complex and vinous with a touch of oxidation, it’s one of the best champagne rosés I’ve tasted in a while.”
5. Champagne treasures in this classic cocktail and gin joint
The world might know ATLAS for its cocktails and its formidable gin library, but did you know that it also boasts an equally impressive Champagne collection? Look to the base of its iconic Gin Tower to find a dedicated room that houses its Champagne. One of its most famous bottles is the Champagne once served on the ill-fated Titanic: the Heidsieck & Co Monopole “Goût Américain” that was salvaged from the bottom of the ocean, priced at a cool S$190,700.
Drink in the grandeur of ATLAS’ Art Deco-inspired interior along with your bubbly. Photo: ATLAS
Good thing there’s plenty of quality bubbly within reach, such as grower Champagne Godmé Père et Fils. “In my view, all grower-producers deserve more recognition and attention from consumers,” declares sommelier Machelo Tagala. “These artisans not only craft Champagne but also cultivate the grapes used in its production. In contrast to larger Champagne houses that source grapes from diverse sources, a grower-producer, exemplified by Godmé Père et Fils, owns and tends to their own vineyards, ensuring control over the entire winemaking process. This dedication results in unique expressions, with a focus on terroir and individual vineyard characteristics.”
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.
Some of the world’s most beautiful places skirt around towering cliffs and a sparkling shoreline. If you’re dreaming of an adventure with glittering views of the big blue sea, these winding roads offer the perfect escape this summer. Enjoy a leisurely jaunt to a Unesco Global Geopark in Izu, Japan or the fossil-filled Jurassic Coast in southern England. If you’re more daring, try the hairpin turns along the Amalfi Coast or the hair-raising twists on a challenging Cape Town drive. No matter your speed, we’ve rounded up the most scenic coastal routes around the globe for an unforgettable road trip.
Tokyo
For a peek of where local urbanites go to slow down, head to Izu Peninsula
Izu has long been a weekend escape of choice for Tokyoites, as it offers surfing, diving, hiking trails and mineral-rich hot springs. It’s also ideal for a leisurely drive, especially on the coastal Route 135 that offers a spellbinding sight of Sagami Bay.
Jogasaki Coast’s wild rocky cliffs and pine trees. Photo: Shutterstock
Take a 1.5 hour-long drive from Tokyo’s city centre down to Atami Beach Line. From there, it’s a gorgeous hour-long drive to Jogasaki Coast, a Unesco Global Geopark. Walking along the dark, jagged curves of this geological marvel is a feast for the senses. If you have to peel yourself away from the coast, head inland to Shuzenji, one of Japan’s oldest, most celebrated onsen destinations. This hot spring town in the middle of the mountains has a Zen-like environment best experienced at the venerable ryokan Asaba.
Melbourne
For a classic Aussie road trip passing iconic natural wonders, drive along Great Ocean Road
Stretching from the seaside resort town Torquay in Victoria to the fishing village of Nelson along the South Australian border, the Great Ocean Road is an over 400km-long route that can be comfortably completed in three days. Along the way, you’ll pass a host of striking attractions, the most popular of which is the Twelve Apostles – a series of rock formations jutting out of the sea formed by millions of years of erosion. Other highlights include the impressive limestone stacks at the Bay of Islands, the beach town of Lorne and the consistent swells for surfing at Bells Beach.
The iconic Twelve Apostles along Great Ocean Road. Photo: Shutterstock
Jeju (via Seoul)
For a unique way to experience one of Korea’s best beach destinations, loop around coastal Ilju Road
This relaxed coastal drive runs along the circumference of picturesque Jeju island and offers stunning views of the ocean and Jeju’s iconic basalt rock formations. From Jeju city, drive anti-clockwise along the coast and take a pit stop at two key attractions: the mountains Sanbangsan and Songaksan. The former is a craggy rock mound surrounded by eye-catching bright yellow rapeseed flowers in the spring, while the latter is an active, double-cratered volcano bordering the sea.
Songaksan Mountain. Photo: Shutterstock
The drive alone takes under two hours, but plan to stop along sights such as Hyeopjae Beach to enjoy its white sands and emerald waters. If you’re not pressed for time, make a 30-minute detour to Hallasan – this shield volcano and national park in the centre of the island is South Korea’s highest peak.
Hong Kong
For a leisurely jaunt across this harbour city’s “back garden”, head to Sai Kung Peninsula
Far from the dense concentration of buildings in Central are the serene coves of Sai Kung Peninsula, ideal for a day of driving and exploring. Experience a more idyllic side of Hong Kong just half an hour’s drive away at Tseung Kwan O and Clearwater Bay Country Park. Head further northeast for another 30 minutes and you’ll reach Sai Kung East Country Park. Stroll through the fishing villages and swim in unspoilt beaches like Tai Long Wan, but don’t leave the so-called back garden of Hong Kong without sampling the city’s freshest catch. One great option is Loaf On, a Michelin-starred Cantonese seafood restaurant.
Los Angeles
For a quintessential California drive with famous pit stops, take the Pacific Coast Highway
Apart from Route 66 that cuts through the entire country, the Pacific Coast Highway (which locals call the PCH) is another quintessential American road trip. The 200-km classic California drive runs between Monterey and Morro Bay and boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and redwood forests that the region is famous for.
The dramatic Bixby Creek Bridge was considered a construction marvel when it was built back in 1932. Photo: Shutterstock
It passes through plenty of gems including the fabled Big Sur, the much-photographed Bixby Creek Bridge and the fairy tale-like seaside town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Take a break from soaking in the scenery at beach shacks like Neptune’s Net, a Malibu institution that opened in 1956 and appeared in films Fast and Furious and Iron Man 3. The drive itself takes around three hours, not including stops.
Rome
For a picture-perfect road trip and a taste of la dolce vita, drive down the Amalfi Coast
With hairpin turns leading to gorgeous views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and colourful villas dotting the cliffs, the Amalfi Drive or Costiera Amalfitana (SS163) is the most cinematic coastal drive in the world. It weaves its way along the Italian coastline for over 60km, starting at Sorrento and heading south before ending at Vietri sul Mare, near Salerno, passing through picture-perfect towns such as Positano, Amalfi and Minori.
Stop by the picturesque seaside town of Positano. Photo: Shutterstock
This drive will take you a little under two hours on the road, but you’ll want to plan stops along the way to explore these charming towns. Enjoy a stay in legendary hotels like Le Sirenuse and Il San Pietro di Positano, or rent a traditional gozzo boat to admire the coastline from afar.
London
For archeological finds and authentic English food, explore the Jurassic Coast Road
With sloping sand dunes and historic market towns, the over 150km-long Jurassic Coast isn’t just about the pristine shores. This Unesco World Heritage Site, which starts from Old Harry Rocks at Studland Bay in Dorset and concludes in Exmouth in East Devon, gets its name from the millions of years of history imprinted into the cliffs that hug this epic coastline.
Old Harry Rocks are chalk formations that mark the easternmost point of the Jurassic Coast. Photo: Shutterstock
Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve seen it before; it has been used as the backdrop to many films, including Dunkirk and Broadchurch. The drive itself takes around two hours. Along the way, seek out freshly caught seafood at Crab House Café and authentic fish and chips at Callaway’s.
Barcelona
For a road less travelled along the popular Spanish coast, head towards Coasta Daurada
Spain has over 4,800km of coastline and yet most travellers entering through Barcelona head north to Costa Brava. Skip the crowds and drive south towards the buzzing region of Valencia instead – a direction that leads you to Costa Daurada (or the Golden Coast) in Catalonia within 1.5 hours. You’ll pass by heritage-rich towns like Tarragona, which has centuries-old monuments like the Roman aqueduct and amphitheatre, as well as Reus, the birthplace of architect Antoni Gaudí, where the Gaudí Centre stands. Drive further south for 1.5 hours and you reach another stunning part of the Mediterranean coast: Costa del Azahar or Orange Blossom Coast. A favourite vacation spot for locals, it’s reputed to have the best langoustines in Spain, especially along the way in the seaside town of Vinaròs.
Cape Town
For hairpin turns and sweeping scenery, take on Chapman’s Peak Drive
Nicknamed Chappies, this popular Cape Town attraction takes you from Noordhoek to Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast on the southwestern tip of South Africa. This road built during World War I is considered one of the best marine drives in the world, but it’s not made for the faint of heart.
Chapman’s Peak Drives includes many twists and turns along the Atlantic coastline. Photo: Shutterstock
While fairly short at nearly 9km and less than 30 minutes’ drive, the cliff-hugging route features 114 turns. It’s ideal for drivers who revel in challenging curves and passengers who aren’t intimidated by them. The journey is truly the destination, so expect blissful views at every bend and reward yourself at the end with a meal at the renowned restaurant The Food Barn.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to the above destinations, visit the official website.
With a design style best described as eclectic, this hotel suits those with an adventurous sense of style. Ornate paper sculptures dot the lobby spaces while its 240 guest rooms feature elaborate floral panels that change colours with the touch of a button – perfect for igniting your sense of whimsy.
Its sprawling WET Deck pool replete with deck chairs and cabanas aside, the hotel’s best feature is the recently reopened SKIRT restaurant. This in-house steakhouse helmed by chef Paul Chong serves mouthwatering cuts of meat alongside delicious small plates the likes of wood-fired lobster pumpkin soup and dry aged Hamachi with burnt buttermilk and kohlrabi.
Best known for its cable cars, S.E.A. Aquarium and Universal Studios Singapore, this leisure island at the southern tip of Singapore has plenty to draw the fun-loving crowds. Lately, there’s even more reason to visit. The Palawan @ Sentosa opened last year, introducing a host of family-friendly attractions such as an electric go-kart circuit, an inflatable obstacle course, mini-golf and beach clubs within a massive 1.7ha complex. This past March, the glittering Sensoryscape corridor opened to much fanfare, increasing the connectivity between Sentosa’s north and south through the introduction of lush gardens, picturesque architecture and awe-inspiring light installations. Here’s what not to miss, on your next jaunt to Sentosa:
1. Rev up your engines at this new indoor go-kart circuit
For an adrenaline-pumping time, head to Hyperdrive at The Palawan @ Sentosa for Asia’s first indoor electric go-kart circuit. Put your mettle to the test with its 14 turns across a multi-level track against a backdrop of neon lights. Whether you’re aiming to beat your personal best times or looking to pit your skills against your friends and family, the exhilaration makes it a race to remember.
Live out your F1 dreams at Hyperdrive. Photo: The Palawan @ Sentosa
2. Lounge beachside with some mouthwatering bites
While this beachside haunt comes with all the usual offerings of a beach club – think pool, swim-up bar and deckchairs galore – +Twelve’s superlative food is its real tour de force. Tuck into mains like the black olive and rosemary-crusted milk-fed lamb cutlets and beer-battered black cod. The crispy camembert fritters are also a hit.
Sip on +Twelve’s signature mocktails or grab a bite at this idyllic beachside haunt. Photo: The Palawan @ Sentosa
As you graze, gaze into the distance and watch the daredevils slide, dash and leap their way through the Ninja Warrior-like inflatable obstacle course at the nearby Hydrodash. If you’re the sort with a penchant for action, perhaps even attempt it yourself; just don’t forget to digest your meal first.
3. Take an immersive jaunt through a light show at the newest kid on the block
Stroll through the newly unveiled Sensoryscape, a 350m footpath that connects you from Resorts World Sentosa to the island’s southern beaches and its numerous beach clubs. But that’s not all that it does; its six distinct segments are also destinations in their own right, especially at nightfall.
Photo: Sensoryscape
Every dusk at 7.50pm, lilac blossom-shaped lamps light the way at the Glow Garden, and digital floor projections and light shows play out across the Symphony Streams, Palate Playground and Lookout Loop. These fantastical visual spectacles are accompanied by a soundscape, and there’s even an augmented reality app that you can explore to truly immerse yourself in this luminous playground.
4. Swing by Sentosa’s eastern end for an earth-shattering steak
Reopened just last year after extensive renovations, SKIRT Restaurant helmed by chef Paul Chong is worth a detour to the island’s eastern tip. Cuts like the Omi wagyu are melt-in-your-mouth tender and served with flavourful regional ingredients like yuzu kosho and Kampot pepper. Don’t miss the small plates, especially the wood-fired lobster pumpkin soup and dry aged Hamachi with burnt buttermilk and kohlrabi. The high-ceilings, plush dusky rose seating and champagne-toned fixtures form the perfect backdrop to the kitchen’s culinary excellence.
SKIRT’s excellently executed steaks are worth travelling to the eastern edge of Sentosa for. Photo: SKIRT Restaurant
5. Feel on top of the world at Singapore’s highest open-air panoramic ride
Watch crowds diminish into pinpricks and the clouds go by at SkyHelix Sentosa. This leisurely ride takes you from ground-level to 35m aboveground in a gentle, spiral motion that gives you a breathtaking 360° view of the island and beyond. Enjoy the briny sea breeze with a drink in hand – tickets include the redemption of a non-alcoholic beverage at the adjoining kiosk.
Enjoy breezy views of Sentosa and beyond on the SkyHelix. Photo: Mount Faber Leisure Group
The SkyHelix is conveniently located near the Skyline Luge Singapore’s starting point, as well as Madame Tussauds Singapore, so you’re spoilt for choice. If you’re checking out the wax figures at the latter, book a ticket that includes entry to the Marvel Universe 4D Cinema. This immersive 8-minute short film is a surprising hidden gem – but saying any more would involve spoilers.
6. Check into a luxurious boutique hotel where history gets a glow up
Turn your day trip into a lavish overnighter at adults-only Barracks Hotel. This conserved building with its pristine white façade and distinctive balustrades used to be a British artillery outpost back in 1904. Today, its 40 rooms, warm brass tones and dark wood grain uplift the Barracks’ old-world charm into a sense of luxe. Leather-accented furnishings and a hand-sculpted marble bathtub complete the look.
The plush interiors of Barracks Hotel’s Garden Suite. Photo: Barracks Hotel
For the ultimate pampering, book the Garden Suite: each of these two capacious corner suites comes with your very own private outdoor patio and a semi-private jacuzzi that adjoins the 30m lap pool. But no matter which room you choose, don’t miss the complimentary all-day refreshments, evening cocktails and canapés in the light-filled living room lobby where live peacocks roam.
The lavish evening cocktail and canapé spread is not to be missed. Photo: Barracks Hotel
7. Walk down memory lane with veterans of Sentosa’s military past
Round off your fun-filled island day with a dose of trivia at the Barracks Hotel’s Heritage Tales and Tea Experience, where army veterans Winston Wong and Khor Sing Hong will regale you with their tales of Sentosa’s past over a cuppa. They’ve lived through the island’s transformation from military stronghold to resort destination, and have many personal stories to share about this very compound.
Army veterans Winston Wong and Khor Sing Hong return to their former barracks to share its stories. Photo: Barracks Hotel
Ask Wong, an avid sketcher, to show you his drawings of the mess hall from back in the day as a young navy officer, or Khor to point out spots in the resort where they once played football during their leisure time. It’ll give you a dramatically different understanding of this elegant property and how far it – and Singapore’s development – has come.
Note that this complimentary experience is exclusively available to guests of the Barracks Hotel and subject to availability.
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.
There aren’t many Michelin-recommended wine bars in Singapore, but FOOL, a concept by Cloudstreet’s chef Rishi Naleendra, is one. The stylish gastrobar is designed as a playful, approachable space to enjoy wine. The wine list, for instance, is broken down into colourful, tongue-in-cheek categories, which makes navigating its 50-something pages a pleasure. You can’t really go wrong with the thoughtfully concise food menu, but look to head sommelier David Tan for his unerring pairing recommendations.
When you think of Perth, its excellent beaches, stunning nature and emerging dining scene tend to dominate the limelight. But did you know that this capital of Western Australia is also home to a thriving nightlife scene? Here are seven destinations to check out if you’re looking to dance the night away:
1. Party under an LED rooftop at Magnet House
This nightclub in Perth’s city centre pulls the crème de la crème of the party world. With a guest list of serious dancers and VIPs, Magnet House is the perfect venue for those looking for a decadent nightclub experience. In 2020, it underwent a multimillion-dollar facelift, which resulted in a luxurious spectacle of canopied lights in the main hall that reverberate with the bass and LED displays throughout the venue. The overall vibe is immersive, trippy and fun.
The mesmerising, pulsating lights of the revamped Magnet House. Photo: Magnet House
Located in Perth’s city centre among plenty of bars and pubs (try the nearby Prince Lane for pre-dance drinks), Magnet House is easily accessible by public transport and open only on Fridays and Saturdays.
2. Channel Vincent Vega and Mia Wallace on the dance floor at Jack Rabbit Slim’s
Nestled in Perth’s cultural epicentre, Northbridge, the iconic Jack Rabbit Slim’s is inspired by Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic film Pulp Fiction. Start your night in the friendly 1950s diner-style room with cosy booths and neon signage out front. Then, step through the retro fridge doors to find a large performance hall with its own bar. Here, light projections fall upon Pop Art wall illustrations by local artist Sean Morris as you cut up the dance floor to everything from live Australian indie bands to international DJs.
Old school neon lights the way to Jack Rabbit Slim’s. Photo: Jack Rabbit Slim’s
Quench your thirst with the popular PowerRave, a fluorescent blue vodka-based mixer that has become the venue’s signature drink. You won’t find food here, but there are a handful of Korean and Japanese eateries nearby that close just before midnight.
3. Get electrified at Barbes
Flanked by the Swan River, the laid-back inner suburb of East Perth is home to great shopping, dining and plenty of green spaces. And in 2020, it sprouted a venue that took its nightlife credentials to the world stage. Barbes hosts some of the coolest local and global electronic DJs, and its roster has included South Africa’s popular amapiano DJ Romeo Makota and UK’s dubstep talent Laurence Guy. Pair that with a state-of-the-art sound system and laser lights that electrify the space and you’ll have a wild night to remember.
4. Eat, drink and dance like you’re in Italy at Si Paradiso
Located on eclectic Beaufort Street, the enigmatic Si Paradiso defies labels given how it dishes out food as good as its beats. Some of the best local DJs can be found at its Amalfi coast-inspired courtyard on the weekends, playing everything from Balearic beats and amapiano to soulful house and oz-wave. In the basement space, Perth’s best tastemakers from the music scene curate special nights of underground bass, rap, techno and more, with the party going until 1am. Their bites are equally spectacular, with 96-hour-fermented dough pizza and Italian-style dishes like gnocchi and beef short ribs.
Don’t miss Si Paradiso’s 96-hour-fermented dough pizzas. Photo: Si Paradiso
5. Soak in festival vibes all year round at Spring
Freshly opened earlier this year in a heritage building on bustling Queen Street, Spring is a vibrant venture by the people behind Seasons, Western Australia’s beloved music festival, and hospitality pros Sneakers & Jeans. The result is a modern restaurant, bar and late-night dance spot that channels a festival feel all year round.
Spring offers solid Italian-American bites, so fuel up before you dance the night away. Photo: Spring
The multi-level venue has something for every taste and age group. The main dining and bar area on the ground floor boasts a giant artificial wisteria tree centrepiece and plenty of natural light. Things get moodier on the first floor, with its intimate dance floor and neon, cocoon-shaped DJ deck.
On Wednesdays and Thursdays, Spring is frequented by those seeking post-work dinner and drinks, while on Fridays and Saturdays a younger crowd streams into the club entrance accessible from the outdoor garden area to sweat it out to high-energy house music. Fuel up with Italian-American flavours on the food menu.
6. Let your inhibitions fly at no-judgement Toots
Step inside Toots, and you’ll find a secret disco within a bar. Tucked away in Sneaky Tony’s in bustling Chinatown, getting into Toots is part of the whole experience. Head to the front bar and ask, “Is Toots in?” and get your golden ticket with directions to a secret door.
Pack your wildest disco outfit if you plan to stop by Toots. Photo: Toots
Housed in a former restaurant, this retro chic disco opened post-pandemic to bring a touch of Studio 54 wildness to its patrons. Whether you’re 18 or 60, have daggy moves or wild disco outfits, let your inhibitions dissolve on the dance floor at this welcoming space.
7. Revel in the spectacle at Metropolis
Fremantle, a 30-minute drive from Perth’s city centre, is a port suburb with lots of old-world charm. You can spend a day or a whole weekend here, enjoying its pristine beaches, eateries and shopping. And if you fancy a night out, you can’t miss Metropolis, one of the biggest nightclubs in Western Australia. Prepare for a sensorial feast as DJs play a symphony of party bangers from dusk to dawn – and don’t be surprised if live horns, flamethrowers and dancers accompany the sets.
Metropolis is a solid choice if you’re already planning to be in Fremantle for the day’s adventures. Photo: Metropolis
For our full list of things to try and places to see in Perth, check out our Perth City Guide. For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Perth, visit the official website.
One of Singapore’s oldest neighbourhoods, Kampong Glam was once home to Malay royalty as well as Bugis, Arab, Javanese and Boyanese migrant communities in the early 1800s. Today, its colourful shophouse-lined streets draws a crowd looking to experience its rich heritage and hipster hotspots.
While the Sultan Mosque and youthful Haji Lane are key tourist landmarks, there are many other nooks worth exploring. For instance, Type8ar is a workshop and retail space dedicated to typewriters, while rustic restaurants like Hjh Maimunah and Bumbu Restaurant serve up delicious local and Indonesian fare.
For some authentic recommendations on the best of this neighbourhood, hear from the locals – Naadhira Ismail, Galeri Tokokita’s Oniatta Effendi and Johari Kazura – behind three of the most exciting businesses here.
Naadhira Ismail
Founder and Baker, Mother Dough
Stepping into Mother Dough is like receiving a warm hug, what with the comforting aroma of fresh bakes in the air and glass cases teeming with almond croissants, garlic twists and an array of delicious weekly specials. The bakery was founded in 2018 by Naadhira Ismail, who left a career in fashion and communications to knead her passion for bread-making.
Running her much-loved bakery means Naadhira Ismail’s never standing still. Photo: Mother DoughSome of Mother Dough’s popular weekend bakes. Photo: Mother Dough
“It’s always a joy to see the counters full at 10am when we open after a whole morning of organised chaos and energy”
“From day one, Mother Dough has always been humbly centred on the love for baking and creating,” says Naadhira. “It’s always a joy to see the counters full at 10am when we open after a whole morning of organised chaos and energy from the bakers and front of house.” So beloved is the bakery by its community, that these same counters are nearly empty by late afternoon – so consider this your tip to order online in advance, or arrive early!
Naadhira’s love for the area’s rich culture and vibrant energy sparked her decision to open the café in Kampong Glam. When she’s not toiling away in the kitchen, you’ll find her chomping down a nasi rawon (a rice dish served with beef soup, beef lungs, tempeh and tofu) at West Sumatran restaurant Sabar Menanti, and washing it down after with a teh tarik halia (ginger milk tea) from Tarik. She also enjoys checking out Cuturi Gallery’s art exhibitions, hunting for eclectic treasures at indie store Shrub and leafing through vinyls at B Side Records.
Oniatta Effendi
Founder, Baju by Oniatta and Galeri Tokokita
Raised in a household where wearing batik was a regular occurrence, it’s no surprise that Oniatta Effendi fell in love with the fabric from a young age. She eventually founded Baju by Oniatta, a fashion label that celebrates the rich traditions and intricate beauty of batik.
“Witnessing the craftsmanship of batik makers first-hand whenever I’ve visited them over the years has deepened my reverence for the tradition and fuels my passion to preserve its beauty through our creations,” she says.
Oniatta Effendi, the sprightly proprieter of Baju by Oniatta and Galerie Tokokita. Photo: Baju by Oniatta
“Kampong Glam is a lively bazaar of stories, flavours and traditions”
Her collections are inspired by culture, nature and feminine resilience, typified by their unique silhouettes and symbolism-laden motifs. As she puts it, “each collection is a woven narrative of my ongoing journey of exploration, curiosity and a deep appreciation for human connection.”
And while her boutique store, Galeri Tokokita, is a peaceful sanctuary tucked away in a second-floor shophouse space – round the corner from Mother Dough – she loves the hustle and bustle of the neighbourhood. “Kampong Glam is a lively bazaar of stories, flavours and traditions,” she says. “And there are so many great places here.”
Oniatta recommends trying the ayam bakar (grilled chicken rice) from Warong Nasi Pariaman and grilled lamb bites from All Things Delicious. “Gelam Gallery on Muscat Street is also worth checking out,” she adds. “They’ve turned a back lane that was lined with trash bins into a walking gallery with some lovely murals!”
Johari Kazura
Founder, Sifr Aromatics
As the third generation of a family of perfumers, Johari Kazura was always destined to run his own scent shop one day. While he grew up helping at his family store, Jamal Kazura Aromatics, he eventually branched out to follow his passion in experimenting with new scents.
While the store’s design embodies the old world, its eclectic layout also invites visitors to follow their sense of curiosity and wonder
Johari established Sifr Aromatics in 2010, a stone’s throw away from his father’s shop. Its name means “zero” in Arabic. Stepping inside is akin to entering an enchanted realm, given how its wooden shelves are lined with intricate antique bottles filled with intoxicating aromas. While the store’s design embodies the old world, its eclectic layout also invites visitors to follow their sense of curiosity and wonder. This is, after all, what keeps Johari excited after all these years.
“I get inspired by life!” says Johari. “The food I eat, the places I go, a new ingredient that lands in my lap. Sometimes it’s a client with an odd request or personality that leads me down paths I would not have taken myself.”
The Kampong Glam area has been the background of Johari’s childhood, and really, his whole life. If you’re in the area looking for lunch, he recommends Zam Zam and Victory Murtabak. “Both are located at the corner of Arab Street and North Bridge Road, and have been serving South Indian Muslim cuisine at the same location for about 110 years. You can’t go wrong with a mutton murtabak at either places,” he says. “There’s also Rumah Makan Minang, which has also been serving Indonesian-style nasi padang for three generations.”
Take a walking tour with OH! Open House to discover the untold stories of Kampong Glam. Photo: OH! Open House
For those who love their history with a dose of art, sign up for the OH! Kampong Gelam pop-up walking tour by local non-profit, OH! Open House, which runs from 30 Mar to 12 May 2024. You’ll get to learn tidbits about this historic enclave as you visit 10 site-specific art installations in the area, including Thai artist Ruangsak Anuwatwimon’s sculptures located at Johari’s store.
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.
The local outpost of the Michelin Guide-recommended flagship in Hong Kong, Wa-En Wagyu Yakiniku offers an upscale gastronomic affair at a decent price point. The restaurant specialises in premium A4 and A5 wagyu from the Miyazaki prefecture, which guests can indulge over multiple courses in an elegant dining space. Specialyakinikugrills imported from Japan are designed with a downdraft exhaust to minimise cooking fumes. When it comes to beef, it’s hard to fault the meltingly tender premium Miyazaki wagyukarubi, or boneless short rib. A light touch on the grill will leave the delicate cuts mouthwateringly succulent.
Elevate your meal with a drink from the Singapore-exclusive Wa-En Bar, which boasts Jewel’s widest wine and whisky list. Cocktails like the Mikan Martini are not to be missed, especially during Happy Hour, where the prices drop to just $12 onwards.
Whether it’s walking across a shiny field of mysterious, colour-shifting orbs, wading past digital koi in knee-deep water or ambling through a meadow of upside-down flowers, you are guaranteed mind-bending experiences at teamLab Planets Tokyo DMM’s immersive exhibition. The innovative installations combine physical elements with stunning visual effects made using cutting-edge digital technology.
teamLab Planets Tokyo DMM is conveniently located next to Shin-Toyosu Station on Tokyo’s Yurikamome Line and runs until 2027.
