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Simmering on the third floor of Raffles City, this refined hot pot restaurant, true to its name, puts the focus on the quality of its broth. Stepping into its stylish, moodily-lit interiors, the journey begins at the broth bar, where a server guides diners through a selection of eight broth flavours including the signature Sichuan green pepper broth and the delicate herbal broth, made with wild mushrooms and figs. The broths are crafted with precision, starting with a fresh mirepoix base that is sautéed and infused with a signature spice paste, then deglazed with a French-style bouillon made from bones simmered for 12 to 16 hours.
Circular bar seating adds to the communal dining atmosphere, while cosy booths offer a more intimate setting for families and friends. Choose between the Deluxe, or the more luxurious Premium Set menu, which includes rock lobster, South African abalone and the meltingly tender Kagoshima A4 Wagyu sirloin. Bring an appetite; the generous portions, which include a green grocer’s worth of fresh vegetables, make this a truly indulgent meal.
“The hills are alive,” laughs our driver and host Maree Martin as we cruise along Highway A440, about an hour southeast of Melbourne. She’s not wrong – gold-flecked pastures roll out in every direction, dotted with cows and bulls in hues of black, brown and white. I crack the window open to take in the scent of the land: earthy, slightly sweet, unmistakably farmland.
We’re touring South Gippsland for three days, heading to Wilsons Promontory – an otherworldly national park known for its granite hills, fern gullies and spectacular white-sand beaches dotted with orange-lichen boulders. It’s the last few days of March – recognised by Indigenous seasonal calendars as Bunuru, or late summer – and Maree notes how dry it’s been. Normally iridescent green and rain-soaked, Gippsland is a bit parched.
Stand-up paddle boarding on Wilsons Promontory. Photo: Wanderers Adventures
Still, the cows remain. “We use Gippsland beef all the time at Marguerite,” says chef Michael Wilson, a Victorian native now leading the Michelin-starred restaurant in Singapore’s Flower Dome in Gardens by the Bay.
He’s joining us on tour after a Melbourne Food and Wine Festival event at O.My restaurant in Beaconsfield, where he has reunited with childhood friends Blayne and Chayse Bertoncello to create a farm-to-table menu. “Gippsland produce is different from the other side of the state – it is unique,” he says.
While “Gippsland produce” has become a buzzword on Melbourne restaurant menus, the area feels somewhat undiscovered. Home to more than 6,500 farms, the region produces about 20% of Australia’s dairy and grows everything from olives to fruit and heirloom vegetables.
Once the domain of multi-generational farmers, it’s now dotted with boutique growers and young producers collaborating with chefs reshaping Victoria’s food scene. There are over 100 vineyards, but only a handful of distilleries – and we’re heading to one now.
A spirited stop in Loch
Fifteen minutes later, we pull into Loch, a postcard-perfect village founded in 1876 by Victorian governor Henry Loch. In a terracotta-coloured, 19th-century former bank is Loch Brewery & Distillery, where owners Craig Johnson and Melinda Davies sell their whisky, rum, London Dry-style gin and beer.
A taste of fruit-infused gin at Loch Brewery & Distillery. Photo: Loch Brewery & Distillery
Craig meets us at the front and takes us to the distillery, a converted 1970s butcher, housing striking copper Australian and Spanish stills. He lights up as he recounts how he and Melinda first discovered whisky in their mid-20s, kicking off a love affair with distilling and drinking it that’s going strong 18 years on.
We peek into the bottling room and take in the barrel warehouse, rows of casks from all around the world filled with liquid gold. “Nothing happens here but time,” says Craig, grinning like a kid in a candy store.
Outside, Craig points out native plum trees – their fruit infused into his gin liqueur – then passes around sprigs of lemon myrtle. The citrusy aroma is sharp and invigorating; Michael inhales deeply, already dreaming of smuggling Gippsland’s native herbs and flowers back to Singapore.
Finally, we’re at the cellar door, and I’m so ready to sample the goods. “Every batch is different, keeping us creative and our customers always wanting more,” Craig says, pouring us a rich dark ale, a lemon myrtle-infused Weaver gin with a savoury finish and a five-year-old smooth rye whisky.
Olive at Loch along the picturesque Victoria Road. Photo: Destination Gippsland
The sun is shining, and my insides are warm too, as we stroll along Loch’s charming Victoria Road. We duck into Yakkity Yak, admiring its handmade goods, and peruse locally made homeware at Kin Goods and vintage treasures at Tarlo & Friends. The sausage rolls at homely café Olive at Loch tempt us, but a cheese tasting awaits.
A new breed of farmers
A winding, scenic 15-minute drive gets us to Prom Country Cheese in Bena, where fifth-generation dairy farmer Daniel Hales has been handcrafting small-batch, certified organic cheese since 2022.
Daniel’s formidable exterior – all tattoo sleeves and grit – contrasts with the gentle way he talks about cheese. Made one day a week from 100% pasture-fed milk in a closed-loop system, the produce range spans 13 styles.
On Saturdays in spring and summer, visitors can drop in for a DIY cheese platter – choose from Camembert, blue, washed rind, semi-hard and raw milk cheeses.
Prom Country Cheese offers visitors a DIY cheese platter in spring and summer. Photo: Prom Country Cheese
Another 15 minutes south is newcomer Wattle Bank Farm. Peter Bland, a former cattle and sheep farmer “gone vegan”, grows mushrooms with his wife Beatrice Imbert, an ex-hospitality pro.
They greet us like old friends at their delightfully quirky farm: think vintage caravan, mismatched “ugly” sofas and a whole lot of Aussie charm. “I’m the foodie, he’s the farmer,” Beatrice smirks. “I know what good produce should look like, so we had to learn from scratch how to grow mushrooms.”
They cultivate eight varieties of oyster mushrooms and shiitakes, providing up to 100kg a week for restaurants in Melbourne and Gippsland, and for visitors to the farm gate that launched in January.
The almost-artistic fungi of Wattle Bank Farm. Photo: Wattle Bank Farm
Beatrice and Peter give us a tour, and we witness the fungi thriving in a dark, cave-like grow room, unfazed by Gippsland’s dry spell. “Mushroom growing is never ad hoc,” Beatrice says. “You’ve got to be fully present.”
That care carries through to the cooking. As we pat horses – part of their popular Saturday pony ride sessions that draw over 100 visitors – Beatrice gently sautés mushrooms over a fire pit beside us. Water first, then butter, garlic, parsley – each added with intent. We dig into crispy, meaty mushrooms inside the farm’s cosy four-person cabin, which also doubles as guest accommodation.
Design, flavour and farm-town soul in Meeniyan
As the late-afternoon light softens, we arrive in Meeniyan. Home to just 840 people year-round, the town’s population swells come summer. There’s a pub with locals nursing pints in the old-timey dining room, a gallery showcasing local photography, sculpture and jewellery, a bakery that smells like my tomato-sauce-on-pie childhood and cafés serving up great coffee and small-town warmth.
Just two minutes from town, Ross Farm is the kind of place you almost miss. “It’s a bit hidden, isn’t it?” our guide Maree muses as we pull in. Then the doors swing open and the scent of cypress hits. We’re staying in the Dairy, the largest of three architecturally reimagined spaces on this farm-turned-boutique stay.
Inside the reimagined spaces of the Dairy at Ross Farm. Photo: Ross Farm
The Moores – Robyn and Lindsay – bought the farm two decades ago. In 2015, Lindsay saw the gap for farm stays in the region and began a four-year reconstruction project.
Everything inside Ross Farm is custom-made, mostly by Lindsay. And their daughter Andrea, who was based in Melbourne but returned to Meeniyan before the pandemic hit, designed the interiors of the three spaces. “Our family has lived in Meeniyan for over 50 years. We’ve long appreciated the quiet beauty of this region and wanted to create a way for others to experience it,” Lindsay explains.
It’s hard to believe that I’m standing in what was once a milking shed: raw concrete, plywood and blackened steel intermingle to provide an achingly hip space, softened by brass touches, a comfy leather couch, sheepskin throws and luxurious robes and towels.
There’s a firepit, a freestanding tub with farm views and a kitchen kitted out with ceramics worthy of a still life. “My design approach is holistic from the inside out. It’s not purely about decoration, but about coherence, atmosphere and the spatial integrity of the spaces,” Andrea says.
The aesthetics of Ross Farm have been designed to protect its heritage as a working farm. Photo: Ross Farm
Andrea’s design flair shines again at Mahob at Moos in town, where we dine that evening. The place throngs with locals; even Beatrice and Peter are here, and we wave to them as the sharing plates begin to roll in.
In September 2024, Cambodian-born chef Woody Chet, formerly of Melbourne’s Amok, opened Mahob, paying homage to the venue’s past life as Moos – a much-loved local spot run for 15 years by Marty Thomas, affectionately known as Moo.
Experience Cambodian cuisine and fresh Australian produce at Mahob at Moo’s. Photo: Nicky Cawood
Marty, who’s also dining here tonight, drops by our table to sing Woody’s praises between courses. The menu is soulful, generous – Cambodian flavours woven with local produce: silky congee topped with Wattle Bank shiitakes, prawn curry, squid stuffed with chestnuts and oyster mushrooms, a modern khor ko (beef stew) and crisp sticky rice with coconut ice cream. The congee wins us all over. “I don’t eat congee often,” says Michael. “But this, this is very tasty.”
The edge of the country
The next morning, prying myself from Ross Farm’s feather-soft sheets, I wander outside. Ducks waddle, sheep crunch hay, rosellas chatter in the gums. The air is heady with that lemon myrtle again. There’s movement, but no rush – a gentle reminder to slow down. I collect eggs from the chook pen and return to leisurely cook breakfast: just the eggs, local bacon and crunchy baguette.
Squeaky Beach at sunset. Photo: Justine Jehanno
Before hitting the road, we stop at The Meeniyan Store for picnic packs filled with more local produce – ham wraps, fresh fruit, cake and juice – for our next destination: Wilsons Promontory.
There are hikes galore at the Prom, from the Mount Oberon climb to gentle walks around Tidal River to scaling the sand dunes of the Big Drift, all with well-marked carparks and facilities.
Today it’s Squeaky Beach that lures us in – its white, powdery sand literally squeaking beneath our feet. The ocean stretches endlessly, waves crashing in turquoise and white. “That’s the end of the country,” Michael says. We pause, letting the view of the southern edge of mainland Australia sink in – raw, rugged, a quiet reminder of why I travel.
From Puglia to the paddock
We’re starved and a carb-loaded dinner at Trulli Outdoors in Meeniyan is the antidote. Its owners, brothers Francesco and Claudio Laera, came from Puglia with little more than ambition. “I came to Australia in 2011 with no English, no money, just came and it’s like, whatever happens,” Francesco recalls.
Eleven months later, encouraged by farmers he worked for, Francesco opened a restaurant in Meeniyan, with Claudio joining several years later. Now they’re giving back.
“This is country Victoria, we have to work together,” Francesco says, serving an antipasto platter with ingredients solely from local farmers – salami and bresaola from Isola Chianina, ham from Rosedale Butchers, Berry’s Creek’s award-winning blue cheese and Prom Country’s pepperberry-spiked Kongwak cheese we tasted yesterday.
Trulli Outdoors wood fire pizza featuring ingredients from local farms. Photo: Trulli Outdoors
During the pandemic, the brothers took their wood-fired pizza oven on tour, popping up in Gippsland towns to offer comforting pies amid uncertainty. Their food is simple, true cucina povera (“poor kitchen” in Italian): we feast on mussels in tomato and wine, slow-cooked octopus with capers and olives, rustic broad-bean pasta, addictive frittelle (deep-fried bread). “We’re not chefs, we simply want to share knowledge,” says Francesco. “We want to see a smile on your face.”
The next day, with bellies still full and smiles still lingering, we bid farewell to Ross Farm and head to Grassy Spur Olive Grove in Stony Creek. Helen and Peter Wright, and their pooches Milly and Gus, welcome us warmly, leading us through their 30-acre grove of 1,500 olive trees.
“We wanted to buy land and start a farm, and we both love trees,” Peter says, as we stroll between the tidy rows. We taste the Picual – “our gold standard,” Peter calls it – its fennel-laced bitterness lingering.
The Frantoio, a Tuscan varietal, is softer. Michael and I both pick up a hint of sweetness just as Peter mentions “banana cake” in the flavour notes.
Their olive oils and delicate, clover-infused honey are sold at Wandilla in Melbourne’s Prahran Market. The honey, once just for pollination, is now a farm staple – 500kg produced by 50 buzzing hives a year. “I have it for breakfast every morning,” Peter grins, as a yellow-tailed black cockatoo sails overhead, a nod to the harmony here between people, trees and bees.
The last bite
We make our way to Warragul – just over an hour from Melbourne, but far enough to feel like a proper escape. The town hums with activities: pretty villages to explore, lakeside strolls at Civic Park and shops selling everything from plants to spices. But like every stop on this trip, we’ve come to eat.
Stella’s Pantry is a fantastic local deli selling a wide range of produce. Photo: Stella’s Pantry
I stop by Stella’s Pantry for a chai latte and a chat with new owner Lauren Oliver, who took over in July 2024 and quickly put her stamp on the beloved local deli. “The deli has a great personality,” she beams, as I peruse the antipasto options and fancy jarred goods.
As golden hour hits, I head to Messmates, Warragul’s hottest dining spot. Opened in September 2023 by siblings Chris and Jodie Odrowaz and their partners, Jess Odrowaz and Michael Clark, it’s a pairing made in hospitality heaven.
What began as an idea at one of their dinner parties evolved into a tribute to Melbourne’s restaurants, complete with an interior that nails the brief: curved banquettes, exposed brick and dark-brown messmate timber tables. Chris and Jess manage front of house, while Jodie and Michael – both with fine-dining pedigree from Vue de Monde, Lume, Brae and Blue Hill – helm the kitchen.
“The way [Blue Hill] cooks influences what we do now,” Michael tells me. “And Jodie’s baking passion was ignited after she saw the baking set-up at Blue Hill.”
Golden hour at Messmates. Photo: Messmates
Crowned The Age’s 2025 Regional Restaurant of the Year, the menu ebbs and flows with the seasons, changing as often as weekly to celebrate Gippsland’s bounty.
Take the dish making most of the late summer tomatoes and zucchinis: blistered tomatoes arrive nestled in a punchy mix of zucchini, basil and pangrattato (Italian-style breadcrumb), laced with anchovy umami, perfect for mopping up with the homemade sourdough focaccia.
And we must end our Gippsland adventure with beef: a silky scotch fillet arrives bathed in tomato jus, topped with peppery rocket. Service is standout, hitting that sweet spot between warm and unobtrusive.
On the walk to Warragul Station, just nine minutes away, to catch the V/Line back to Melbourne, I replay the last three days – the delicious food, yes, but more so the people behind them.
Farmers, chefs, drink producers, all with a story to tell, all with a spark in their eyes. The hills are alive, and so is Gippsland’s love for great food and even greater community.
Meaning “happy home” in the local dialect, Huen Muan Jai is the place to go for an introduction to Lanna cuisine. In a wooden Lanna house with a tree-lined garden, celebrity chef Charan Thipeung serves northern Thai classics and deep cuts – from entry-level options like fire-roasted chilli dips withsai oua(herb-laced northern Thai sausage) andgaeng hang lae(pork belly curry with ginger) to seasonal dishes, like spicy soup with young jackfruit and ant egg omelettes. The affordable prices belie cuisine of this calibre.
At one of Chiang Mai’s first modern fine dining restaurants, Phanuphon “Black” Bulsuwan turns seasonal – and sometimes foraged – local ingredients into regularly rotating 10-course tasting menus that weave together Thai, Japanese and Chinese influences. Think Japanesesomenwith local chicken thigh, fish maw and preserved quail egg. Sustainability is a fundamental pillar here, too. Kitchen scraps, for example, get fermented or repurposed into home-brewed beer and sake that can be paired with your lunch or dinner.
In the leafy San Phi Suea district, about 15 minutes north of the Old City by car, chef Prapatsorn “TuTu” Na Chiengmai has quietly built a reputation for warm hospitality and seasonal Thai food. Set in a house overlooking rice paddies and a garden, the chef’s table-style restaurant offers a rotating menu based on what’s growing nearby and what guests are in the mood for. Expect dishes like crab salad with mixed fruit – mangosteen if it’s in season – and fragrant curries made from just-harvested herbs. The Ubud-like setting is tranquil, and the seating is limited, so reservations are essential.
Formerly SKAI Beach Club at Padma Resort Legian, the new SKAI Bar & Grill is a transformed space that exudes sophistication. A classic beach house with welcoming earthy tones and sleek black accents, it is the perfect place to catch Bali’s famous sunsets. This idyllic beach setting invites you to lounge the day away, with plush daybeds, outdoortablesand an elegant infinity pool to soak up the vibes. Tocomplementthe scene, indulge in a menu featuring modern Mediterranean and Levantine cuisine, includinghot and coldmezze,babaganoushand smoked octopusmanakish. Larger plates feature roastedlobster tail,flavouredlambcôteletteand roasted cauliflower, perfect for sharing. Make sure youleaveroom for the crispy meringue pavlova for dessert.Top it off withcreative cocktails that highlight theLevantineconceptthrough the use offigs,datesand other tropical fruits. Also worth sampling istherefreshingmocktailKitanasDelight,which combines tangerine,lemonand pineapple.
Whether it’s re-stocking skincare essentials or buying a Dom Pérignon for a special occasion in the future, savvy shoppers will tell you that one of the best ways to save is by taking advantage of tax and duty-free shopping while travelling. And if you’re a Singapore Airlines (SIA) or Scoot customer, there are many ways to begin your shopping experience.
KrisShop, SIA’s premier in-flight and online retail platform, lets you browse and shop from over 2,000 products starting 60 days before your trip and up to 30 days after your return. With free in-flight or home delivery, it’s a seamless shopping experience that redefines convenience. You’re not just saving on your purchases – you’re also saving time.
Tax and duty-free shopping before, during and after your flight
There are multiple ways to secure sought-after products from KrisShop’s extensive catalogue online. You can shop duty-free from 60 days up to 24 hours before your flight and within 30 days after your trip. Didn’t have time to go to the shop to purchase a gift for someone you are visiting? From fine wines to delightful confectionery, you can pre-order an item and receive it on board your flight, ensuring a stress-free gifting solution. You can also surprise your loved ones by snagging exclusive airline merchandise featuring the iconic Singapore Airlines batik motif as a memento from your trip.
Enjoy shopping KrisShop’s extensive catalogue before and after your flight.
On board, if you forget to bring a travel adaptor or your go-to beauty essential, KrisShop offers a curated selection of its best-selling items, including exclusive airline merchandise. Simply check the in-seat catalogue and ask our friendly cabin crew for assistance. Want to shop without adding extra weight to your luggage? You can pre-order items for collection on your return flight (available on selected flights).
Even after landing, you can continue to shop on KrisShop.com for up to 30 days. Take advantage of exclusive post-flight promotions, including duty- and tax-absorbed liquor delivered to your Singapore address – with no bottle limit.
Beyond shopping
For KrisFlyer members, shopping on KrisShop also comes with additional perks. Earn KrisFlyer miles on every purchase and enjoy exclusive discounts. Signing up for KrisShopper – KrisShop’s loyalty programme – lets you earn up to four miles per dollar spent*.
Earn KrisFlyer miles when you shop with ease on KrisShop.
Miles can also be redeemed for purchases, making every transaction more rewarding. KrisShop isn’t just a shopping platform—it’s an integral part of the travel experience, offering convenience, exclusivity, and rewards. Next time you fly with Singapore Airlines, take a moment to explore KrisShop and discover how it can elevate your journey.
Tucked away in a corner of the Sentier neighbourhood, this Bib Gourmand recipient offers an authentic taste of Northern Vietnamese cuisine, celebrated for its fresh herbs, delicate flavours and nuanced broths like pho and bun cha. The restaurant’s success underscores the significant place of Vietnamese food in Paris, a city with a rich history of Vietnamese immigration and a deep appreciation for its culinary heritage.
Located in the Marais district of Paris’ 4th arrondissement, this charming traditional Parisian brasserie established in 1936 offers a classic and comforting dining experience. To truly savour its timeless appeal, order quintessential brasserie fare like steak frites, French onion soup, escargots or a hearty croque monsieur. Feel at home in this enduring establishment offering a taste of authentic Parisian culinary tradition in a warm and inviting setting.
Expect a profound Japanese-inspired culinary experience at this 1 Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by chef Kosuke Nabeta. Emphasising the delicate art of Japanese gastronomy with French finesse, their tasting menu is a must-order. Enjoy exquisitely presented dishes featuring seasonal ingredients, precise techniques and subtle umami flavours. Each plate at Sola is a testament to the harmonious blend of two distinct culinary traditions, leaving a lasting impression of refined simplicity and impactful taste.
Pink Mamma is a visually stunning Italian restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious, authentic Italian cuisine, including standout dishes like truffle pasta and wood-fired pizzas. Adding to its allure is a secret speakeasy bar called No Entry, tucked away in the basement behind what appears to be a cold storage door. Retreat to this hidden gem, which offers a cozy ambience and creative cocktails, after having an intimate meal upstairs. Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended.
Singapore’s northern Mandai area has always been home to the country’s award-winning zoo…but not much else. Mandai Zoo first opened in June 1973, and was a popular attraction for Singaporeans and visitors alike throughout the 80s and 90s. But this year, Mandai Wildlife Group has rejuvenated the site with Rainforest Wild Asia, a 13-hectare park that allows visitors to see animals in open (but still protected) spaces while choosing their own level of adventure.
Guests can explore the forest floor or stroll the overhead walkways. Photo: Mandai Wildlife Group
This forest adventure park joins the country’s four main nature attractions in one area. This includes River Wonders (formerly River Safari), Bird Paradise (relocated from its smaller, quainter location in Jurong) and the Night Safari. The area is now known as an integrated wildlife and nature destination.
Rainforest Wild Asia is designed to offer visitors everything from leisurely strolls to adventurous and physical experiences. Those looking for a laidback experience can use the wide walkways and guided tours that will take you from points of elevation all the way to the forest floor. For something more exhilarating, there are forest trails with fallen logs, boulders and bridges, as well as harnessed experiences, freefall jumps and challenging caving adventures.
Thrill-seekers can test their climbing and jumping skills. Photo: Mandai Wildlife Group
For animal-lovers, Rainforest Wild is a new experience, introducing “flexible habitats” that allow visitors to see different animals at different times of the day. The more open concept is designed to encourage animals to exhibit their natural behaviours and allow guests to observe them in this state – though it does mean you will have to look harder to spot them. The park is home to 29 animal species including some new-to-Singapore creatures like the endangered François’ langur and the Philippine spotted deer. To recreate this rainforest setting for its inhabitants, 7,000 Southeast Asian trees and shrubs have been planted to supplement the existing patches of flora.
A journey through 10 zones
Rainforest Wild is divided into 10 zones with highlights including The Karsts, a series of jagged limestone formations where guests can watch monkeys swinging and leaping through the trees. Thrill-seeking visitors can embark on guided tours over the cliffs via a ferrata path. At the Forest Floor, visitors will have to trek over fallen trees and climb over logs to make their way to the Rock Cascade to see the Malayan tiger enclosure. They can also head up to The Canopy to catch a glimpse of treetop life and maybe get a chance to see species like the Javan langur and red-shanked douc langur.
Visitors might be able to spot the new-to-Singapore red-shanked douc langur. Photo: Mandai Wildlife Group
Experience The Cavern, designed in collaboration with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation and inspired by the Malaysian state’s famous Mulu Caves. To create Mandai’s “version”, designers scanned the rock features of Mulu Caves and faithfully recreated their ancient rock formations. Traverse across the subterranean walkways or try the more adventurous side paths where you might see racer snakes and giant black scorpions (from a safe distance, of course). Be sure to stop by the new dining destination located in The Cavern which touts itself as the country’s first cave-dining destination.
Luxury in the rainforest
Rainforest Wild functions as part-zoo and part-adventure camp, catering to nature-lovers curious to experience wildlife in a more naturalised habitat and thrill-seekers wanting to test their skills scaling heights and exploring the forest floor.
In the same vein, the new Mandai Rainforest Resort offers guests the first luxury hotel experience in the area. It also marks a homecoming for Singaporean hospitality brand Banyan Tree. Famed for its luxurious resorts around the globe, as well as their Banyan Tree Spa at Marina Bay Sands, this property blends the brand’s natural aesthetics with the lush greenery of the area.
The pod-shaped treehouses of the new Mandai Rainforest Resort
The resort is situated on sprawling 4.6-hectare grounds next to Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild Asia. It features 24 tree houses with private patios as well as a five-storey resort that houses 314 guest rooms and suites. The rooms offer views of the rainforest, garden and reservoir and can be naturally ventilated as part of the resort’s sustainability practices. For families, the Family Retreat, Family Rainforest and Family Sanctuary rooms can accommodate up to two children in a super single bunk bed.
Naturally, activities at the hotel are designed to attune guests with nature and grant special access to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve parks. Wellness experiences include the Banyan Tree Spa which features three treatment pods inspired by the Sunda pangolin, as well as sound healing and “earthing” activities that take place on the roof. There are guided nature walks for everyone to enjoy and even a “Ranger Buddies: Rainforest Discovery” programme run by Mandai X for the kids.
Inside the spacious family room complete with kids’ bunk
“We are excited to have Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree serve as the perfect launchpad for Singaporeans and tourists to discover the marvels of nature and wildlife,” said Glen Cook, general manager of Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. “As Banyan Group’s homecoming property, we are dedicated to delivering unparalleled guest experiences synonymous with the Banyan Tree brand. From exclusive wildlife encounters in the parks right next door to rejuvenating spa treatments, every moment will be thoughtfully crafted to captivate the senses.”
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore, visitsingaporeair.com.
Much like last year when Taylor Swift descended on the Little Red Dot for The Eras Tour, 2025 is starting to look like a monster year for concerts in Singapore. If there’s anything we learned from Taylor, along with Coldplay, Bruno Mars and Ed Sheeran who all played here last year, it’s that planning your concert strategy is absolutely essential. Know where you’re planning to eat and celebrate pre- or post-concert, as well as where to stay. Here, we highlight the best dining spots around Singapore’s most popular concert venues, plus amazing hotels to relax in.
National Stadium and Singapore Indoor Stadium
The 55,000-capacity National Stadium has hosted music’s biggest names, and will be playing host to Lady Gaga’s upcoming gig in May. Meanwhile, the air-conditioned Indoor Stadium – where Babymonster performs, also in May – accommodates up to 12,000 spectators. Both are within walking distance of Stadium MRT station.
Singapore’s National Stadium and Indoor Stadium have played host to mega stars like Taylor Swift and Bruno Mars. Photo: Shutterstock.com
From Resorts World’s Ballroom and Convention Centre to the sandy shores of Siloso Beach, Sentosa is where artists like Itzy, Hacken Lee and Afrojack have performed. This April, popular Taiwanese rock duo from the nineties, Power Station will play at Resorts World. Sentosa is easily accessible by train to HarbourFront MRT station, followed by a stroll across the boardwalk or a monorail ride.
Newly-renovated Tanjong Beach Club is the perfect place for beach vibes before a show. Photo: Tanjong Beach Club
There are plenty of pre-show dining options, including wood-fire grilled meats atPanamericana, Mediterranean cuisine atSol & Oraand the newly reopenedTanjong Beach Club. Within Resorts World Sentosa, try new Spanish spotSugarraor casual Thai restaurantSoi Social.
Too buzzed to sleep? Party at1-Altitude Coast, a breezy rooftop bar with stunning views and an infinity pool.
Stay at Amara Sanctuary for easy access to Sentosa sights. Photo: Amara Sanctuary
A 5,000-seat auditorium that Pentatonix and the Backstreet Boys have played at, The Star Theatre’s upcoming gigs include Norwegian duo M2M in May and pop star Jason Derulo in June. Located in The Star Vista, minutes away from Buona Vista MRT station, it’s surrounded by heaps of dining spots.
The Star theatre has seen the likes of Harry Styles play there. Photo: Shutterstock.com
For Taiwanese food, tryMonki’s braised pork rice and oyster mee sua. If you have time for a leisurely dinner, indulge in a seafood feast of crab, lobster and prawns atThe Boileror treat yourself to steak frites atLes Bouchons.
Monki is all about authentic and delicious Taiwanese cuisine. Photo: Monki
Want a cheeky nightcap? Have a beer atScruffy Murphy’s IrishCafé-Pub or take a short cab ride to the hip Holland Village for drinks and live music at the laid-backWalaWalaCafé Bar.
Situated in central Singapore, near City Hall MRT station, this 977-seater offers a more intimate space. Capitol Theatre counts Ed Sheeran among its past performers, with upcoming shows by Neck Deep in May and Valley in June.
This space played host to an intimate Ed Sheeran concert last year. Photo: Shutterstock.com
We recommend the nearby Raffles City for a plethora of good food, including popular pizzeriaCasa Vostra(which may see long lines), Spanish tapas restaurantMovida Singaporeand tempura eateryTenjin.
Thanks to its location, there are loads of bars in the area for a post-concert drink.The Bar at 15 Stamfordis right next door, while sky-high cocktail hangoutSkai Barsits across the road at the iconicSwissôtel. A 10-minute walk away, the award-winning28 HongKong Streetbeckons you in for a classy night out.
Be sure to check out the rooftop pool of the Pullman Hill Street hotel. Photo: Pullman Hill Street Hotel
With stellar acoustics and a capacity of 1,541, this theatre has hosted everyone from Drum Tao to The Addams Family to the St Petersburg Ballet Theatre. Coming to see Elijah Woods perform in August? It’s situated on Mediacorp Campus, just a 10-minute walk from one-north MRT station.
There is plenty to eat around the Mediacorp campus from kid-friendly restaurants to fancy dining. Photo: Mediacorp Studios
The kid-friendly CaféMelba, featuring a menu of pizza and sandwiches, is a delicious choice close by. Alternatively, dine near the MRT. Get a table at RistorantePietrasantafor laid-back Tuscan food or do a fuss-free dinner at one of the best burger places in town,One Fattened Calf.
Ristorante Pietrasanta is all about hearty and authentic Italian cuisine. Photo: Ristorante Pietrasanta
To keep the vibes going after the show, enjoy live music performances, light bites and a cold pint atTimbre+ One North.
Formerly a power station, this heritage building is now a venue for concerts, indie festivals and fashion shows. Names like Jamie xx and Foster the People have played here, while electronic music act Boris Brejcha will perform in May. You can get here via a 10-minute walk from Labrador Park MRT station.
Concerts at Pasir Panjang Station are lively and intimate. Credit: 24Owls
For dinner before the show, dine amidst lush greenery at Knots Café& Living, a place that blends your dining experience with flowers and furniture. Looking for something casual and affordable? Get your spice fix atSuper Thai by Soi Aroy.
Afterwards, jump in a cab to art enclave Gillman Barracks for drinks at bikers’ hauntHandlebarorIda’s, a new alfresco bar by a floral studio.
Enjoy dinner with a difference before or after a show at Pasir Panjang Power Station. Photo: Knots Café & Living
Right by Pasir Panjang Power Station isLabrador Villa, a restored 1920s building that takes you back in time. Outdoor enthusiasts, you’ll love that it’s near Labrador Nature Reserve’s quiet walking trails.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore, visitsingaporeair.com.
The 2025 F1 season kicked off on a high in Melbourne in March with a thrilling Australian Grand Prix that saw plenty of action on and off the track. If you missed seeing McLaren’s Lando Norris put in a convincing victory, there’s always next year – and the rest of this season. Here’s how to do a Grand Prix weekend at some of our favourite destinations.
Melbourne: Australian Grand Prix
Expect great food and drinks at Middle Park Hotel. Photo: Middle Park Hotel
Back as the season opener this year, palm-tree-lined Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne is famous for its medium- and high-speed runs backdropped by the city skyline. Fans also love seeing the drivers each morning on Melbourne Walk and catching the nightly concerts. Away from the circuit, stock up on merch at Pit Stop Melbourne, enjoy the annual Grand Prix Street Party at Middle Park Hotel, grab rooftop drinks at Mirror Mirror and indulge in supper at Gimlet.
Shanghai: Chinese Grand Prix
The purpose-built Shanghai International Circuit featurestight turns,high g-forces and one of the longest straights in F1. After the on-track action, catch a train to downtown Shanghai to enjoy the city’s vibrant offerings. Admire the skyline views from Flair at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong or sample agave-infused cocktails at Coa Shanghai. Enjoy a culinary odyssey at chain restaurants Din Tai Fung (for noodles and dim sum) and Haidilao (for hotpot). Don’t forget to try Nanxiang Mantou Dian, arguably the city’s best xiaolongbao dumplings, andHuangMen Lao Zaofor Chongqing-style hotpot.
Nagoya: Japanese Grand Prix (Suzuka)
Suzuka, with its own ferris wheel, is a great race for families. Photo: Shutterstock.com
Created in 1962 by Dutch track designer John Hugenholtz, Suzuka International Circuit is a favourite among drivers thanks to a challenging layout combining high speeds, 18 corners and an iconic “crossover”. While here, ride the Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the track or hit the Motopia amusement park andget behind the wheelyourself. Visitors usually stay in Nagoya so take some time to wander the Osu district for street snacks like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, take in the tunes at the Jazz Spot Swing and celebrate with a beer at the Kirin Brewery.
Milan: Italian Grand Prix (Monza)
The Ferrari flagship store in Milan is a must-visit for fans. Photo: Shutterstock.com
Drive 30 minutes from Milan to the spiritual home of Ferrari – the Autodromo Nazionale Monza. The “Temple of Speed” was created in 1992 and features long straights, tight chicanes and high speeds – and is where Juan Pablo Montoya set a top speed record of 372.6km/h in 2004. After a day trackside in Monza, treat yourself to a lavish Mediterranean meal at Derby Grill or Il Moro. In Milan, enjoy an opulent Risotto alla Milanese at Savani or authentic Italian cuisine at Penelope a Casa – owned by former Red Bull driver Vitantonio Liuzzi – then drink among theTifosi(the term for hardcore Ferrari fans) in the Navigli district and slip into the wonderland that is the Ferrari store.
Barcelona: Spanish Grand Prix (Montmelo)
Enjoy a drink and some tapas at this city stalwart. Photo: Bar Alegria
Spain’s Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Montmeló, will be an F1 circuit for one more year before the race moves to Madrid in 2026 – so enjoy the spectacle of cars flying down long straights, high- and low-speed corners and elevation changes.
Each evening after the race, fans gather at the pop-up bars lining Montmeló’s main street over the weekend – those in the know book dinner at El Tapeo or El Trabuc in nearby Granollers. In the city, settle in at a tapas bar – try La Cova Fumada, Bar Alegría or Bodega La Puntual – or feast at an internationally inspired chef’s counter at Direkte, then quench your thirst at the La Dolce Vitae rooftop.
Singapore: Singapore Grand Prix
The Singapore grand prix promises a thrilling night race and a festival atmosphere. Photo (and above): Shutterstock.com
Each year, Singapore hosts F1’s original night race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in the heart of the city, a challenging track of 19 tight corners, four DRS zones and intense humidity; after the on-track action, fans party into the night with huge concerts. By day, sip Singapore Slings at the Raffles Hotel’s Long Bar, head to the top of Marina Bay Sands for sundowners at Lavo or Spago and dine in historic surrounds at Chijmes, where you can try classic Singaporean dishes at New Ubin Seafood. Continue the F1 experience at Torno Subito – by acclaimed Italian chef Massimo Bottura – where you’ll enjoy casual Italian fare while gawking at real Ferrari F1 cars and testing your skills on the gamified electric go-kart circuit atHyperDrive.
Brussels: Belgian Grand Prix (Francorchamps)
The tiled walls of Maison Vincent offer a taste of history in addition to a great post-F1 meal. Photo: Maison Vincent
Historic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps was built in 1921 in Belgium’s picturesque Ardennes region. It was redeveloped in 1979 but remains the longest track on the F1 calendar; the combination of long straights, uphill climbs and fast corners pushes cars to the edge. Spend a few days exploring Brussels while you’re here – enjoy local brasseries like Maison Vincent, Les Brassins and Le Cirio, and sample hard-hitting Belgian beers at cafés like Delirium, À La Mort Subite and La Fleur en Papier Doré.
Amsterdam: Dutch Grand Prix (Zandvoort)
The “sea of orange” is typical for home races in The Netherlands. Photo: Shutterstock.com
Reigning champ Max Verstappen will have two more chances to enjoy a Grand Prix at home – Circuit Zandvoort, 45 minutes from Amsterdam, will disappear from the F1 calendar after 2026. For now, this beachfront track offers harsh gravel beds that penalise drivers for the smallest mistakes and 14 corners that swoop through sand dunes. In Zandvoort, fans can race sims at Racesquare or try Dutch pancakes at Duneaan de duinrand.Spend a few days soaking up picturesque Amsterdam too, while feasting on French-Flemish plates at Rijsel, brasserie classics at Cradam or Dutch comfort food at Hap-Hmm. Cap off your trip with a “brown bar” experience – a classic,casualDutch bar without pretence – at Café ‘t Smalle or Café de Sluyswacht.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to these destinations, visit singaporeair.com.
