WHERE Singapore: December 2014 by Asia City Media Group

december 2014

78 YEARS, 68 Cities

FESTIVE FUN A whole month of feasting, partying and celebration!

33 new things to see & do in singapore this month

contents where

l SINGAPORE l december 2014

the guide 40 attractions 700 years of local history

42 arts & culture Da Vinci’s secret notebooks

44 shopping Kenzo’s new flagship

46 wellness Unusual spa treatments

48 dining Where food meets heritage

51 nightlife Singaporean flavors

54 Property

12 SEASON’S GREETINGS

Expert tips

How to celebrate the festive season in Singapore

55 navigate Essential information

also inside 06 Editor’s Itinerary 22 Neighborhood Guides 57 20 Things We Love About Singapore 58 My City

8 l Hot dates Peter Pan

17 l SOUVENIR HUNT

Uniquely local keepsakes

YEARS

Celebrating 78 years of WHERE Magazine, the leading visitor publication around the world

wheretraveler.com

The website from the editors of Where magazine. Get all the latest city buzz from our local experts. Info only the locals know.

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

asia city Media group publisher & general MANAGER Ric Stockfis acMg | EDITORIAL where EDITOR Clara Lim Managing Editor Mrigaa Sethi SENIOR WRITER Eimear Elkington junior WRITER Letitia Tandean CUSTOM CONTENT WRITER Joyce See acMg | PRODUCTION associate art director Beverly Chong Senior Designer Camen Louise Ho Graphic Designers Fishy Toh, Mossy Chew Wenzhi acMG | ADVERTISING & CIRCULATION Business development manager Intan Agustina senior manager, media & marketing Shernan Plameras executives, media & marketing Lee Wee Keong, Roderick Wong, Joy Yao, Swathi Raj Finance Manager Lynn Legaspi Accountant Huang Huiping marketing manager Silver Adrienna Ng marketing & admin assistant Geraldine Tan Group Directors CHIEF executive OFFICER Gretchen Worth group digital director Greg Duncan email asia city staff at: where@asia‑city.com.sg

MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS mvp | executive PRESIDENT Donna W. Kessler vice president of operations Angela E. Allen chief travel editor Geoff Kohl general manager, where maps Christopher Huber mvp | national sales VICE PRESIDENT, NATIONAL SALES Rick Mollineaux director of partnerships & NATIONAL digital SALES Bridget Cody NATIONAL SALES COORDINATOR David Gately MORRIS COMUNICATIONS Chairman & ceo William S. Morris III PRESident William S. Morris IV PRODUCTION DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION Kris Miller mvp | cREATIVE CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER Haines Wilkerson senior regional editorial Director Margaret Martin design DIRECTOR Jane Frey PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Susan Strayer CREATIVE COORDINATOR Beverly Mandelblatt mvp | manufacturing & technology director of manufacturing Donald Horton e-mail for all of the above: firstname.lastname@MORRIS.com

where SINGAPORE

#14-03 Block 211, Henderson Rd., Singapore 159552 Phone: (65) 6323-2512 • Fax: (65) 6323-2779 Email: where@asia-city.com.sg Published by where® Singapore Publishing Ltd., an Asia City Media Group Company. MCI (P) 094/09/2014 • ISSN: 0219 3280. Printed by KHL Printing Company Pte. Ltd. where® makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where® is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications-Where Magazine.

4 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

Finding your way around Singapore? Do it right with the free Where速 Singapore app.

Packed with travel essentials, neighborhood guides, maps, new places and hot events.

Where Singapore

where Welcome Editor’s Itinerary Good Tidings

It’s the end of another year—and what better way to celebrate than by living it up in Singapore? We’ve got your festivities covered with a sackful of Yuletide cheer, seasonal feasts, Christmas markets and end-of-year parties to go around. T RIP PL AN N ER

In the News Singapore ranked #1 on Lonely Planet

>> MORNING Museum-hop. Head to the National Museum for local history exhibition Singapura: 700 Years (see page 40) and ArtScience Museum for their latest blockbuster shows (see page 42).

>> AFTERNOON Head to the historic Chijmes (see page 48) to admire a slice of history and sample delicious food at one of the many new restaurants at the same time.

The state clinched the top spot on Lonely Planet ’s Best in Travel 2015, in part thanks to next year’s Golden Jubilee celebrations and exciting new developments like the Singapore Sports Hub and National Gallery Singapore (opens Oct 2015). SG50 celebrations

Our Golden Jubilee celebrations kick off this New Year’s Eve and are set to last all year. In the works are the Southeast Asian Games (Jun), National Day Parade (Aug), a revamp of the National Museum (Sep) and a Jubilee Walk trail (Nov). Check www.singapore50.sg for the latest schedule. Shop and Win with UnionPay

>> EVENING Tuck into a festive feast (see page 10) before getting ready to party all night at ZoukOut (see page 9) on Sentosa.

6 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

UnionPay credit card holders stand to win rewards when they charge a minimum of $50 to their card at any of the participating outlets along the Singapore River’s three quays. Prizes include free hotel stays, dining and shopping vouchers, and more.See www.singaporeriver.com for details.

In next month’s issue of JANUARY 2015

79 YEARS, 68 CITIES

ART & THE CITY Kick off 2015 with the city’s hottest art exhibitions, events and festivals

33 NEW THINGS TO SEE & DO IN SINGAPORE THIS MONTH 33 NEW THINGS TO SEE & DO IN SINGAPORE THIS MONTH

and festivals exhibitions, events the city’s hottest art Kick off 2015 with

To advertise, contact the sales department at 6323 2512 or where@asia-city.com.sg

THE CITY ART &

where Hot Dates December Dec 4-14

The Singapore International Film Festival

The largest and longest-running film event in Singapore returns with a strong selection of movies from Southeast Asia and around the world. The opening film is controversial local filmmaker Ken Kwek’s Unlucky Plaza, while there are also noteworthy selections from countries like the Philippines, China and the Middle East. During the 11-day festival, expect screenings (held at Marina Bay Sands, National Museum of Singapore and The Arts House), master classes for budding filmmakers, as well as a range of other exciting fringe events. Various venues, www.sgiff.com. $12-25.

Dec 2-4

Dec 11

Through Dec 13

INTERNATIONAL PREMIER TENNIS LEAGUE Gear up for a topclass tennis showdown that will pit some of the world’s best tennis players against each other. Cheer on sports superstars like Andy Murray, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Roger Federer as they battle it out for top spot. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, S(397691), www.sportshubtix.sg, $49-490.

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC SUMMIT One of the world’s largest dance music conferences will be making its Singapore debut. Hosted by BBC Radio One’s Pete Tong, some of the biggest names in electronic music like Paul Oakenfold and Richie Hawtin will gather for speeches, interviews, workshops and tutorials. With an afterparty led by Oakenfold. W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way, S(098374), www. internationalmusicsummit.com. $125-310.

M1 CONTACT CONTEMPORARY DANCE FESTIVAL This dance festival includes an exciting line-up of more than 90 artists from Australia, Hong Kong, Israel and South Korea. On top of performances, there will also be technique classes and workshops designed to bring out the dancer in you. Various venues, www.the-contact.org. $15-250 from L.

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Through Dec 14 MAMMA MIA This West End staple is back in Singapore as part of its Mamma Mia International Tour. Featuring a UK cast and ABBA’s catchy tunes, this feel good musical is about a mother, a daughter and three possible dads.

Dec 12-13

ZoukOut Organized by longreigning superclub Zouk, Singapore’s yearly mega dance festival is back for its 14th year. Set to take place over two days, the line-up features some of the biggest names in techno, trance, electro, hip hop and house including Dutch DJ Nicky Romero, Steve Angello of Swedish House Mafia and electro-house maestro Steve Aoki. Siloso Beach, S(099538), www.zoukout. com. $118-388.

Before (or after) the show... Where to Eat [The Chop House] This gastropub serves hearty burgers and generously sized steaks in a laidback setting. #01-161/162 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, 6376-9262, S(098585), www.the-chop-house.com. Where to Drink [The Queen & Mangosteen] Take in the breathtaking views of the harbor while downing a cool Pimms & lemonade or Archipelago beer. #01-106/107 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk, 6367-9380, S(098585), www.queenandmangosteen.com.

MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., S(018956), $95-230 from L.

Venues, www.affsuzikicup.com. $18-48.

Through Dec 20

DIM SUM DOLLIES—THE HISTORY OF SINGAPORE PART 2 Join popular musical cabaret trio Dim Sum Dollies as they explore Singapore’s rich history with a dash of satire. Well-known for their incisive yet cheeky comedy style, the local group gives you a peek into what makes Singaporeans tick. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr.,

ASEAN FOOTBALL FEDERATION SUZUKI CUP Get a slice of football action as Singapore plays host to this prestigious sporting event for the fourth time. Gear up for exciting matches as the national teams from Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and, of course, Singapore go head to head. Various

Purchase tickets via SISTIC

Dec 11-23

6828-8377, S(038981), www.dreamacademy.com.sg. $48-138 from L.

Through Jan 20 2015 PETER PAN, THE NEVER ENDING STORY Revisit your childhood with this J.M. Barrie classic as it makes its Asian premiere featuring a 50-member cast of dancers, acrobats and magicians. It will also offer a fresh take on well-known pop songs from the likes of Westlife and Robbie Williams. Resorts World Sentosa Theatre, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888, S(098269), www. rwsentosa.com. $58-168 from L.

(6348-5555, www.sistic.com) or Sportshubtix (6333-5000, www.sportshubtix.sg)

D ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

Open 10am to 7pm daily | www.MarinaBaySands.com/ArtScienceMuseum Facebook.com/ArtScienceMuseum |

Twitter.com/ArtSciMuseum

where now Singapore

Festive Fun Where to celebrate Christmas in Singapore.

hile Singapore may not enjoy a white Christmas, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard not to get into the spirit of things here, what with all the festive light-ups, feasts and parties happening all over the island. Celebrating in the tropics doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get any better than this.

Singapore CABLE CAR

12 WHERE S INGAPORE I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

WHERE NOW

see & do

orchard road

Orchard Road The annual Christmas light-up and festivities along Orchard Road consistently draws local and visiting crowds year after year, and for good reason. It’s not just the street that’s bedecked in sparkling lights, multi-colored stars and over-the-top displays—the many malls on the strip, too, try to outdo one another in festive decorations and shopping promotions. This year, look out for more nostalgic components as Singapore gears up for its 50th anniversary, as well as customary street performances, caroling and other activities each evening. Don’t know where to start? A great vantage point to tae it all in is ION Sky on the 56th story of ION Orchard, where you

can also dine on special items like a whipped goats cheese cigar or turkey and Christmas pudding at modern Australian restaurant Salt Grill & Sky Bar. Through Jan 1. Orchard Rd., www.orchardroad.org. MRT: Orchard.

Singapore River

decorations. Also brightly decked out for the season are the river boats, which ply the river daily. Look out also for local carolers (Dec 4-6, 11-13; 7:30pm), roving Christmas mascots (every Fri, 7:30pm) and spectacular fireworks (every Fri, 9pm). Finally, visitors can pick up gifts and festive treats at the Christmas markets along the river promenade (Dec 13-14, 19-20) and at Clarke Quay’s Central Fountain Square (Dec 20-21).

Back for its second edition, Singapore River’s festive celebrations will take place across Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and Robertson Quay. The river’s banks from Cavanagh Bridge at Boat Quay to Alkaff Bridge at singapore river Robertson are studded with LED-lit Christmas trees, strung with fairy lights and other

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Through Jan 2, 2015. Boat Quay, Clarke Quay & Robertson Quay, www. singapore-river.com/christmas. MRT: Clarke Quay.

WHERE NOW Sentosa & HarbourFront The inaugural festivities along Singapore’s southern coast kick off with dining deals, special menus and seasonal dishes such as The Chop House’s Sunday roasts and Spuds & Aprons’ Asian-inflected lunch and dinner sets. The cable car experience, too, will be extra-special with a decadent four-course Christmas menu ($320/couple) available to order and enjoy on-board. Other offerings include hotel stay packages at Resorts World Sentosa and shopping deals at VivoCity and HarbourFront Centre. Plus, Universal Studios Singapore’s operating hours will be extended until 9pm as the theme park rolls out Christmasthemed shows complete with “snow,” video mapping and light shows every night, fireworks every weekend, and a festive dining hall serving feasts daily. Through Dec 26. Sentosa & HarbourFront, www.shba.org.sg. MRT: HarbourFront.

gardens by the bay’s spiegeltent

food and handcrafted products at The Artisans & Craftsmen Market (Dec 14-15) and traditional Asian furnishings, woven fabrics, handpainted ceramics and other lifestyle goods at Exotic Asia (Dec 18-21). Through Dec 21. 30 Victoria St., 6337-7810, S(187996), www.chijmes.com.sg. MRT: City Hall.

CHIJMES

Chijmes Other than a slew of newlyopened restaurants (see page 48), there are even more reasons to revisit the historic landmark this season as it plays host to a variety of festive markets. Find affordable fashion labels, knick knacks and even a tarot card reading stall at the Lawn Market (Dec 6-7), local produce, artisanal

festive market with restaurants serving gourmet fare and stalls selling collectible souvenirs. In the Flower Dome, there will be Yuletide-themed floral display of fir trees, poinsettias, hydrangeas and lilies, complete with snow and a winter village setting. Through Jan 1, 2015. 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6420-6848, S(018953), www.gardensbythebay.com.sg. MRT: Bayfront.

Gardens by the Bay

For this festive season, the horticultural attraction takes its cue from European traditions with a debut of baroque light sculptures handcrafted by artisans from Italy, culminating in a huge, spectacularly illuminated gazebo where carolers will sing every weekend. Continuing the theme are in the Supertree Grove are Asia’s first Spiegeltent, a marquee filled with enchanting mirrors and stained glass from the Netherlands, and a European-style

SALT GRILL & SKY BAR

d ecember 2014 I WH ERE S INGAPORE

WHERE NOW

dine The White Rabbit

with fresh oysters and lobsters, a

meat carving station and mains like One of the most Christmasroasted guinea fowl. appropriate restaurants around town, this European establishment 39C Harding Rd., 9721-0536, S(249541), www.thewhiterabbit.com.sg. MRT: is housed in a restored Ebenezer Orchard (or take a taxi). chapel with gorgeous high ceilings and stained Saint Pierre glass windows on Over on Sentosa’s the edge of lush atmospheric Quayside green Dempsey Isle, this French Hill. This Christmas restaurant serves up Eve, it serves a a fine Christmas Eve four-course dinner spread ($258) of eight ($118; additional $88 innovative dishes including for wine paring) with saint pierre Fine de Claire oysters with dishes like truffle and foie Japanese cucumber gel and olive oil gras tortellini, roasted guinea fowl sorbet; brioche-crusted Hokkaido with buttermilk cannellini and scallop; and wild salmon mi-cuit crispy kale. A considerably more with Iberico pork belly. Things decadent Christmas Day buffet get a lot more traditional for their brunch (from $118) overflows

the white rabbit

Christmas Day lunch ($88), with dishes like turkey wellington with cranberry-fig stuffing, classic Christmas bubble and squeak and roasted winter roots with black truffle dressing. #01-15 Quayside Isle, 31 Ocean Way, 6438-0887, S(098375), www. saintpierre.com.sg. MRT: HarbourFront.

RECHARGE Espa

espa

Resorts World Sentosa’s acclaimed spa has gone the unusual route this season with a newly-launched series of traditional Chinese treatments (each $200/60 minutes). The Tui Na body massage and Foot Reflexology treatment stimulate blood flow via specific pressure points, purportedly promoting healing and restoration from the inside out. There’s also a Kinesio Taping Therapy, a painless

treatment using elastic tapes to mimic the effects of muscle contractions, said to alleviate chronic pain and persistent frozen joints. Standard spa treatments are also available, as are Christmas gift sets ($220 upwards) with skincare products, bath products, aromatic candles and other spa essentials. Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8880, S(098269). MRT: HarbourFront.

Read the interactive version of this story on our app.

16 WH ERE S INGAPORE I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

WHERE NOW

Souvenir Shopping Hunt for the perfect keepsake while exploring the city.

farm

hether you’re buying one for yourself or a dozen for your friends and family back home, everyone loves a good souvenir. Plus, it’s a great way to remember your trip. With Singapore's eclectic mix of cultures and traditions, you’ll certainly be able to find something quirky, classic, or even edible to take home with you. Vintage pieces are all the rage and have been popping up at stores across the country, and The Damn Good Shop is one place to find them. Started by the creative geniuses behind local social media marketing agency Goodstuph, this emporium houses one-off vintage goods, as well as products by local companies like retro eyewear brand Mystic Vintage and eye-catching artwork by design company

Flabslab. However, be sure to plan "five stones"—a toss-and-catch your visit well ahead of time. The game played with small triangular Damn Good Shop is primarily an cloth bags filled with rice or sand, online entity, and their store at similar to jacks—pretty tote bags Maxwell Road only opens from featuring motifs from old Chinese 8pm to midnight every first calendars, and drinking Friday of the month. glasses with funny Similarly, catchphrases in the community-centered local lingo (also arts establishment known as Singlish) and design studio printed on them. Farm sells both If you’re online and from their after something store, which is open more cutting-edge, Mondays to Fridays from pop by The Museum the damn 10am to 6pm. Curated by a Shop. Located at the good shop young team of passionate ground floor of the Red art enthusiasts, Farm’s Dot Design Museum, the colorful, wacky and highly original store features an assortment collection of products are all made of award-winning products in Singapore, and represent the that have been recognized for country, its culture and its history. their exceptional design quality Here you’ll find classic games, like by an international jury. From d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

WHERE NOW and come in limited numbers, so get them while they’re hot. Look out for special items made in collaboration with local designers, which you won’t find anywhere else. Apart from Clarke Quay, another hotspot for souvenir collectors is Bugis. With its eclectic mix of streetwear, printed t-shirts, watches, mobile phone accessories and other quirky bric-a-brac, the busy Bugis Street market is a favorite haunt of locals and visitors alike. Afterwards, you can take a breather and enjoy a leisurely browse through cosy indie store Cat Socrates at the nearby Bras Basah Complex. Hot items like scrapbooking essentials, cutesy stationery, tin robot toys and books by local independent presses make fantastic buys for all ages. For the ultimate blast from the past, check out The Heritage Shop at Jalan Sultan. This antique store is packed to the brim with thousands of collectibles reminiscent of Singapore’s past, mainly from the 30s to

the 60s. Besides selling vintage ware, it also doubles up as a props supplier to local theatres looking for hard-to-find items. Something different can be found at Toko Aljunied, a store that specializes in Arab perfumes, Peranakan (Straits Chinese) outfits and batik clothing (made using an age-old manual dyeing method). One of the oldest stores in Singapore, you can pick up a variety of wallet-friendly fashion items, from satin gloves to kebaya (traditional Malay blouse-dress combination). Over at hip neighborhood Tiong Bahru, BooksActually doesn’t only focus on reading material, but also on nifty merchandise including tote

Shinnpark

Bluetooth-enabled speakers by Singapore-based company Xmi to Red Dot's yearbooks featuring the best and the latest design innovations and concepts. Do take the time to study the labels attached to each product and the little-known stories behind them. For a good mix of vintage and modern trinkets, The Central at Clarke Quay is a must-visit. Hit up fun gift store Shinnpark for cute and curious collectibles ranging from adorable postit notes fashioned after local desserts and aprons with cooking guides printed on them. It's full of surprises as it constantly brings in both local and international labels to keep the range fresh. Also worth a visit is Goods of Desire, where East meets West with their range of products. Although the store hails from Hong Kong, it represents Singapore’s everpresent Cantonese culture. Stock consist of pretty much anything you can think of, from orientalstyle mouse pads to bookmarks with Chinese characters printed on them, but they change often

Bugis Street

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Goods of Desire

WHERE NOW bags, mugs, and other fun items like miniature vintage beer bottles. Events are often held here, so if you’re lucky you can also meet up-and-coming authors, or catch acoustic performances by local singers. At homegrown fashion lifestyle retailer Tangs, you can pick up tasteful gifts such as Asian-inspired ceramics and Ya Kun Kaya Toast gorgeous centerpieces made using natural tropical foliage. Exclusively at Tangs, local brand Animal Merchandise sells animalthemed homeware like colorful placemats. Animal Merchandise supports animal welfare shelters and wildlife sanctuaries, both locally and globally, so shop for a cause and see your dollar go that much further. BooksActually Simpler mementos can be found at the stores of Singapore’s iconic museums, the ArtScience sweet sold at many bakeries. Museum, National Museum of Meanwhile, the Singapore Orchid Singapore, and Singapore Art Series pays homage to the national Museum. These places of interest flower of Singapore with floral, carry keepsakes like keychains fruity flavours like the Vanda Miss and tote bags bearing the symbol Joaquim, orchid lychee and of the Merlion (the half-lion, halforchid mango. fish that represents Singapore), If you’ve enjoyed trying toast models of the city’s key landmarks, with kaya (coconut jam), why as well as Singaporenot purchase the good themed iPhone covers stuff to savor back and sketch books. at home? At the Edible souvenirs famous Ya Kun make excellent gift Kaya Toast, their ideas for foodies. At kaya recipe is The Cookie Museum, sold by the bottle tourists go wild for the and is perfect as unique treats on offer. a breakfast spread The Singapore Heritage or afternoon snack. the cookie Ya Kun’s special coffee Flavours series consists of museum cookies, which taste similar powder and house-brand to quintessential Singaporean cookies are also available dishes like Hainanese chicken for purchase at the coffee chain's rice, nasi lemak (a Malay rice dish many outlets across the island. prepared with coconut milk) and To further satisfy your craving pandan chiffon cake, a well-loved

Cat Socrates

for edible souvenirs, head to any major supermarket, such as NTUC FairPrice or Cold Storage, and look for Prima Taste Sauce Kits. Having these ready-to-cook pastes and sauces on hand will make it that much easier for you to recreate the taste of Singaporean food, no matter where you are in the world. There’s an extensive range of kits to choose from, like curry, laksa (a spicy coconut-based noodle soup) and chilli crab. Follow the cooking steps on the pack and you’ll be whipping up authentic dishes in no time. Additionally, if you can handle the heat, add a bottle of belachan (chilli sauce made with shrimp paste) to your purchase. This is one condiment that many locals can’t get enough of and it undoubtedly adds that extra oomph to your meal.

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

WHERE NOW Address Book FARM #04-29 Waterloo Centre, 261 Waterloo St. (65) 6336-1706. www.farm.sg Bras Basah Goods of Desire #02-08 The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen St. (65) 6593-3228. www.goodsofdesire.com Clarke Quay The Heritage Shop

ArtScience Museum Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave. (65) 6688-8328. www.marinabaysands.com Bayfront BooksActually 9 Yong Siak St. (65) 6222-9195. www.booksactually.com Tiong Bahru BUGIS STREET 3 New Bugis St. www.bugisstreet.com.sg Bugis Cat Socrates #02-25 Bras Basah Complex, 231 Bain St. (65) 6333-0870. www.catsocrates.com.sg Bras Basah Cold Storage #B2-01-1 Ngee Ann City, 391A Orchard Rd. (65) 6735-1266. Orchard #B1-16 Bugis Junction, 230 Victoria St. (65) 6336-1990. Bugis #01-23B VivoCity, 1 HarbourFront Walk. (65) 6275-4770. HarbourFront www.coldstorage.com.sg

National Museum of Singapore 93 Stamford Rd. (65) 6332-3659. www.nationalmuseum.sg Bras Basah NTUC FairPrice #B1-01/02 Tiong Bahru Plaza, 302 Tiong Bahru Rd. (65) 6270-0913. Tiong Bahru #01-01/02/03 Orchard Grand Court, 131 Killiney Rd. (65) 6734-4450. Somerset #01-640, 1 Rochor Rd. (65) 6296-5183. Bugis www.fairprice.com.sg Shinnpark #01-43 The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen St. (65) 6534-7624. www.shinnpark.com/shop Clarke Quay Singapore Art Museum 71 Bras Basah Rd. (65) 6332-3222. www.singaporeartmuseum.sg Bras Basah TANGS 310 Orchard Rd. (65) 6737-5500. Orchard

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#01-187 & #02-189 VivoCity, 1 Harbourfront Walk. (65) 6303-8688. HarbourFront www.tangs.com.sg The Cookie Museum #01-02/04 Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Ave. (65) 6333-1965. www.thecookiemuseum.com Esplanade The Damn Good Shop #01-02, 30 Maxwell Rd. (65) 6438-3505. www.thedamngoodshop.com Tanjong Pagar The Heritage Shop #01-01, 93 Jalan Sultan. (65) 6223-7982. www.facebook.com/ theheritageshopsg Lavender The Museum Shop G/F Red Dot Traffic, 28 Maxwell Rd. (65) 6225-5950. www.designmuseumshop.sg Tanjong Pagar Toko Aljunied 91 Arab St. (65) 6294-6897. www.facebook.com/TokoAljunied Bugis Ya Kun Kaya Toast #01-31 The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen St. (65) 6534-7332. Clarke Quay #01-32/33/34, 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd. (65) 6238-1872. Somerset #01-16 Funan DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd. (65) 6336-0683. City Hall www.yakun.com

where else

NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES 23 Orchard 28 CHINATOWN 32 SENTOSA 36 Singapore River CHINATOWN

ore odS Singap orho neighb guide

download our complete neighborhood guide Get the lowdown on Singapore’s most interesting and exciting neighborhoods. Go to www.is-magazine.com/store to download a free PDF.

EXPLORING

singapore botanic gardens

Holland Village has long been a stronghold for bohemian culture and Singapore’s expatriate community, while Dempsey Hill is a hip neighboring district. The former is one of the city’s top lifestyle destinations with a cluster of wining and dining establishments set in quiet and mostly residential surrounds. The latter features trendy restaurants, spa facilities and shops hidden within the conserved colonial black-and-white buildings of a former British army barracks. ATTRACTIONS Founded in 1859, the 63.7-hectare 9 Singapore Botanic Gardens (1 Cluny Rd., 6471-7138) is the main recreational park in the area. It has an extensive range of more than 10,000 types of plants including the most comprehensive collection of tropical orchids in the world. There are also arts and cultural sites in Dempsey such as the 6 Museum of Contemporary Arts

(MOCA) (27A Loewen Rd., 64796622) at Loewen Gardens. The intimate contemporary art space brings in top artists from across Asia Pacific including Beijing-based sculptor Jiang Shuo and Sichuanese painter Ye Yongqing. Smaller galleries can be found at Holland Village too. A perennial favorite is Taksu Singapore (#01-72 Blk. 43 Workloft@Chip Bee, Jalan Merah Saga, 64764788), which has been open since

1989 and represents urban artists around Southeast Asia.

DINING and nightlife Among Dempsey’s hottest eateries is 8 The White Rabbit (39C Harding Rd., 6473-9965), an airy European dining spot housed in a former chapel built for the colonial British garrison. It has been beautifully refurbished with wrought-iron grills and stained-glass windows.

december 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

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NEW & NOTED

muse by didier lourenço

Muse by Didier Lourenço Through Dec 19. Barnadas Huang Gallery, 22 Dempsey Rd., 6635-4707, S(249679) www.barnadashuang.com. MRT: Queenstown. Free. Acclaimed Spanish artist Didier Lourenço will be having his first ever solo exhibition in South East Asia, which looks to pay homage to the mystery woman that inspired this series. Viewers are offered an intimate look at the muse, as seen through the artist's eyes.

Art Noise Singapore 26 Lorong Mambong, 6463-3651, S(277685), www.sg.art-noise.com. MRT: Holland Village. Get yourself a chic haircut at this top Japanese hair salon's first Singapore outpost. Featuring stylists who hail from Japan, they also offer head spas and use their very own brand of shampoos that promise a non-damaging blend of chemicals.

wala wala Café bar

its live music venues including Wala Wala Café Bar (31 Lorong Mambong, 6462-4288), a casual two-story watering hole that hosts local music acts nightly. On the surrounding street, there's everything from local hawker fare to Vietnamese pho and Mexican food. Alternatively, head to Chip Bee Gardens stalwarts such as Chez Petit Salut (#01-54 Blk. 44 Jalan Merah Saga, 6474-9788), which offers French favorites such as escargots and profiteroles, or Original Sin (#01-62 Blk. 43 Jalan Merah Saga, 6475-5605), one of the nation’s pioneering vegetarian restaurants.

Also popular is 3 House (8D Dempsey Rd., 6475-7787), a multipurpose space with a café, bar and salon. Fashionistas and creatives head to 4 PS. Cafe (28B Harding Rd., 6479-3343), a stylish place where SHOPPING an eclectic mix of In Holland Village recipes—including Shopping Center, gado gado salad, there’s Lim’s Arts miso cod and and Living (#02poutine—is on offer. 01 Holland Road For beer lovers, Shopping Centre, 211 5 there’s Tawandang Holland Ave., 6467Microbrewery (#01-01, 26 PS. Cafe 1300), a mammoth home Dempsey Rd., 6476-6742), a furnishings and curios store Thai restaurant and watering hole with an array of Chinoiserie silk that’s popular with the after-work cushion covers, trinket boxes and crowd. Local seafood specialties African figures that make such as fried dough fritters stuffed great souvenirs. with minced prawns, chili and black Dempsey’s Woody Antique 7 pepper crab can be savored at House (#01-05 Blk. 13 Dempsey Long Beach (25 Dempsey Rd., Rd., 6471-1770) stocks a similarly 6323-2222). Asian-inspired mix of statues and Holland Village offers many teak furniture while, emgallery dining choices and is split into (#01-04/05 Blk. 16 Dempsey Rd., two main areas: the nightlife hub 6475-6941) and Rouge French 1 Lorong Mambong and the Designs (#01-01 Blk. 16 Dempsey quieter residential stretch 2 Chip Rd., 6475-9245) provide a range of Bee Gardens along Jalan Merah Oriental-style garments. Saga. The former is known for

december 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

EXPLORING

Orchard Road is not known as Singapore’s “shopping street” for nothing. Named after the plantations that lined it in the ’40s, it is today home to the world’s most prominent luxury brands, as well as stylish indie stores stocking hard-to-find labels and unexpected gems from across Asia. However, it is not just the vast variety of shopping that’s a draw. There are also choice dining and wining options located alongside quaint cafés to whet your appetite, so you can shop all day.

paragon

Shopping The main shopping strip of Orchard Road is home to both high fashion and high street retailers, catering to both clued-in shoppers and the masses. There are Prada, Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo at 6 Paragon Shopping Centre (290 Orchard Rd., 6738-5535), Louis Vuitton and Dior at 5 ION Orchard (2 Orchard Turn, 6238-8228), Fendi, Chanel and Hermès at 7 Ngee Ann City (391 Orchard Rd., 6506-0461), and Michael Kors, Anne Fontaine and Hermès at 3 Scotts Square (6 Scotts Rd., 6733-1188), the strip’s newest luxury space. These malls are spacious and inviting, offering world-class customer service.

Popular high street stores like H&M at Orchard Building (1 Grange Rd., 6735-6370), Topshop at 8 Knightsbridge (270 Orchard Rd., 6593-6999) and Uniqlo at 11 313@somerset (313 Orchard Rd., 6496-9313) promise plenty of affordable buys in a myriad of styles. You’re sure not to leave empty-handed either way. The city is also home to some of the best multi-label indie boutiques in the world, stocking fashion that represents the best of contemporary design. Some of the rarest international cult brands like Undercover and Ganryu can be found at Club 21b at 1 Forum The Shopping Mall (583 Orchard Rd., 6732-2469) while Inhabit—The Other Store at 9 Mandarin Gallery

(333A Orchard Rd., 6831-6363) offers desirable international and regional clothing labels like MM6 by Maison Martin Margiela from Paris, and Song for the Mute from Australia. For something uniquely Singaporean, Hansel, also at Mandarin Gallery, is local fashion designer Jo Soh’s cheery take on contemporary womenswear with a vintage twist. The Reckless Shop at Orchard Central, will please the fashion forward with its unconventional use of materials and silhouettes, while internationally renowned Ashley Isham, also in the same mall, stocks gorgeous, elaborate evening gowns for women. Those looking for something edgier can check out

d e cember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

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1. Forum The Shopping Mall 2. Wheelock Place 3. Scotts Square 4. TANGS 5. ION Orchard 6. Paragon Shopping Centre 7. Ngee Ann City 8. Knightsbridge 9. Mandarin Gallery

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NEW & NOTED

4th rendezvous with french cinema

4th Rendezvous With French Cinema Through Dec 7. Shaw Theatres Lido (and other venues), 5/F, 350 Orchard Rd., Shaw House, S(238868). $11-13.

The fourth edition of this French film festival features a special tribute to actress Juliette Binoche, whose latest movie Clouds of Sils Maria was selected to compete for the Palme d’Or at Cannes. Held in conjunction with the Singapore International Film Festival, there will be 16 films screened in total.

MAKAN@JEN

Makan@Jen #10-01 Hotel Jen Orchardgateway, 277 Orchard Rd., 6708-8888, www.hoteljen. com. MRT: Somerset.

No visit to Singapore is complete without a culinary adventure. Look no farther than Makan@Jen, a vibrant all-day restaurant with a la carte and buffet options and a variety of diverse cooking stations offering local and international treats.

Arteastiq

Depression at Orchard Cineleisure (8 Grange Rd., 6235-1155) or Saturday at 2 Wheelock Place for out-of-this-world designs and bold silhouettes that will make any wearer stand out from the crowd.

ATTRACTIONS

While you’re in Orchard, catch a glimpse of The Istana (www. istana.gov.sg), located close to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station. This is the official residence of the President of Singapore and Dining & Nightlife features stunning British After all that hard work, architecture. Farther chill out at some of the down the road best cafés and bars in towards City Hall the area. Take your pick and Bras Basah, from cafés like Arteastiq you’ll also find (#04-14/15 Mandarin two of Singapore’s Gallery, 6235-8370), Wild biggest museums, Singapore Honey (#03-02 Mandarin art museum the 18 Singapore Art Gallery, 6235-3900; #03Museum (71 Bras 01/02 Scotts Square, 6636-1816), Basah Rd., 6332-3222, www. Jones the Grocer (#04-21/23 singaporeartmuseum.sg) and the Mandarin Gallery, 6836-6372) 17 National Museum of Singapore and Dean & Deluca (#04-23/24 (93 Stamford Rd., 6332-5642, Orchard Central, 6509-7708). Their www.nationalmuseum.sg). great coffee, tea, all-day breakfast The Singapore Art Museum items and desserts are guaranteed holds a permanent collection to perk you up. If you’re looking for of approximately 7,000 South something stronger to help you cool and East Asian contemporary off, stop by Ice Cold Beer and No. 5 and modern art pieces, while Emerald Hill along Emerald Hill for exhibitions at the National beers and spirits that won’t break Museum of Singapore investigate the bank (especially during happy 700 years of Singapore’s rich hour which typically starts from history and diverse culture. 5pm onwards). d e cember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

SHOPAHOLICS UNITE Head to Orchard Road this Christmas and snap up some amazing deals. 1

313@somerset

313 Orchard Road, (65) 6496-9313

313@somerset is conveniently located above Somerset MRT station & sits at the heart of Orchard Road. Along with Forever 21 & ZARA flagship stores, 313@somerset also boasts popular fashion brands such as Cotton On, Mango, New Look & UNIQLO. Feeling peckish? Let the palate run wild with hot dining favourites or chill at the alfresco restaurants and bars at the Discovery Walk. 2

Club 21

#02-20/21 Hilton Hotel Singapore, 581 Orchard Road, Hilton Hotel, (65) 6304-1388

Club 21 Style Services is a bespoke shopping service that saves you time while you enjoy Singapore. A Style Advisor will access the spectrum of Club 21’s over 60 labels, which include Giorgio Armani, Balenciaga and Lanvin, to create a carefully edited selection to meet your needs. 3 Forum The Shopping Mall

583 Orchard Road, (65) 6732-2469

Forum The Shopping Mall caters to the needs of modern families with its unique mix of international brands such as Club21b, TriBeCa and Tsumori Chisato. For the little ones, stores like Not Too Big, Jo Andrew & friends and nicholas & bears make an interesting shopping trip. Wine and dine at Benjamin Browns Bistro & Bakery, California Pizza Kitchen and Uma Uma Ramen. For our Tourist Special, please check with

our Information Counter on Level 2 for more details. 4 Hilton Shopping Gallery

581 Orchard Road, (65) 6737-2233

This shopping destination houses a collection of the finest names in fashion. Shoppers can indulge in an enclave of luxury shopping with designer labels straight off the catwalks of Milan and Paris, fine European jewellery and watches, and multi-label boutiques for men and women. 5

Mandarin Gallery

333A Orchard Road, (65) 6831-6363

Mandarin Gallery—set right in the heart of Singapore’s bustling Orchard Road, the four-level mall is a retail haven for the discerning fashionista offering an amazing spread of quintessential local boutiques and international cult brands. For a quick time-out, Mandarin Gallery also offers a lip-smacking range of boutique eateries that caters for every taste. 6

Metro Paragon

#02-28 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road, (65) 6835-3322

Shop for the perfect holiday gift at our Metro department stores at Paragon and The Centrepoint to receive an exclusive 10% tourist discount*. Also be sure to pick up a copy of the Metro’s guide to Singapore—an essential guide to all things Singapore. *Terms and conditions apply.

26 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 4

Ngee Ann City

391 Orchard Road, (65) 6506-0462

Ngee Ann City is a citywithin-a-city showcasing seven levels of shopping and gastronomic gems. It boasts a spectacular range of 130 specialty stores and leading luxury fashion labels including the Japanese department store Takashimaya. Ngee Ann City is also a place to rest and recharge with over 30 amazing restaurants and designer cafés offering tantalizing treats from exotic local fare to sophisticated fine dining. 8

Orchard Central

181 Orchard Road, (65) 6238-1051

Orchard Central’s “Center of New” positioning permeates every aspect of the mall—including new architectural and design forms—to bring about fresh and distinctive retail experiences for urban shoppers. Fronted by an iconic exterior featuring local artist Matthew Ngui’s eye-catching digital art membrane, the mall presents a unique cluster concept, grouping complementary offerings together to serve as special destinations for shoppers. Differentiating itself through a myriad of new experiences, Orchard Central features the world’s tallest indoor Via Ferrata climbing wall, a collection of public art installations by acclaimed international artists (worth over $9 million), a 24/7-operational Roof Garden and Discovery Walk, as well as Singapore’s first dedicated Mediterranean retail and lifestyle destination located at Basement 2.

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orchardgateway

277 & 218 Orchard Road (65) 6513-4633

orchardgateway is Orchard Road’s latest fashion mall with a wide range of international high-street fashion, mixed-label as well as indie fashion boutiques. Among its unique features are a dedicated Men’s Zone catering to the trendy male shopper and the underground fashion street showcasing a cluster of international and local fashion blogshops. Straddling both sides of Orchard Road, the mall forms a “gateway” with its iconic, curved twin towers that are linked by a glass overhead bridge. A 60-metre lighted runway and other fashion-inspired benches within the mall add to its appeal as a shopping destination for the fashion-forward.

Paragon

290 Orchard Road, (65) 6738-5535

A prominent shopping icon along Orchard Road, Paragon is a place that offers a unique and unrivalled shopping experience—housing a total of over 200 luxury and premium stores to cater to your every need. From now till 31 Dec 2014, tourists will enjoy shopping privileges at participating shops, free coffee and a gift-with-purchase made at Paragon. Please present your passport to enjoy the privileges and redemption. 11 TANGS The Christmas Store

310 Orchard Road, (65) 6737-5500

This Christmas, step into TANGS and prepare to fall in love. There’s everything to make it a chic Christmas to remember. Dress up for the festive season with an array of new and exciting

brands on our newly restyled fashion floors at TANGS Orchard levels 2 and 3. Our Christmas Shop returns, bigger and better than ever on TANGS Orchard level 4. From stunning Christmas trees and trims, to thoughtful gifting ideas such as the uber-contemporary Marimekko in original prints, divinely-scented candles from Cire Trudon, hand-crafted notebooks from Bynd Artisan, eclectic one-of-a-kind curios from shop-in-shop concept Maison Curio, and even cuddly Steiff bears for the kids, there’s truly something for everyone. 12

Scotts Square

6 Scotts Road (65) 6235-0575

Scotts Square is conceptualised with the modern, well-travelled and discerning shopper in mind. Located between the Grand Hyatt and Marriott hotels, Scotts Square features flagship boutiques of international labels and delectable dining selections over four floors—including Damiani, Hermès, Michael Kors, On Pedder, Sincere Fine Watches, Sushi Ichi, Vivienne Tam and more. 13

Wheelock Place

501 Orchard Road (65) 6733-1188

Wheelock Place is an exciting cosmopolitan destination that meets every demand of the stylish urbanite. Behind its distinctive conical façade lie 7 floors of the trendiest fashion and lifestyle finds, excellent restaurants and cafés such as Marks & Spencer, Clarins Skin Spa, EpiCentre, Maison Kayser, Melissa, Pylones and many more.

Wing Tai Retail

Enjoy your Christmas shopping with exciting offers at Wing Tai Retail outlets such as Adolfo Dominguez, adidas, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Ben Sherman, Etam, Dorothy Perkins, FOX KIDS & BABY, G2000, i.t, Karen Millen, Miss Selfridge, Topman, Topshop and Warehouse! In addition, tourists can enjoy 10% off regular priced items at participating Orchard Road stores. Simply present passport or foreign ID. Terms and conditions apply. Please check in-store for more details. 15 Robinsons The Heeren

260 Orchard Road (65) 6735-8838

Step into Robinsons The Heeren for a shopping experience unlike any other. The department store houses over 380 exclusive brands and services and spans over 186,000sq feet. Need a gift idea or a wardrobe overhaul? Let our personal shoppers assist you. Book your appointment at www.robinsons.com.sg/ personal-shopper or call (65)8126 6188. 16 TW Steel Singapore

#03-05 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road (65) 6735-5080

Steel Watch Pte Ltd is the Authorized Distributor for TW Steel Watches. With its name meaning ‘The Watch in Steel’, TW Steel is firmly established as a big, bold, global lifestyle brand. Launched in 2005, and now with 125 models in its ‘Big in Oversized Watches’ collection, TW Steel is an internationally recognized and respected brand name offering truly affordable luxury.

Navigate around Orchard Road with the new interactive walking map on Orchard Road’s free mobile app “@Orchard”. Available for download on both AppStore and Google Play. 16

D E CEMBER 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE 27

EXPLORING

Malay Heritage Centre

Colorful garlands, stacks of jewelry, and great food—Little India is every tourist’s dream come true (and every local’s little secret). It's at its most bustling on weekends, so if you prefer a more leisurely experience, go in the late morning or explore on a weekday if you can. Nearby Kampong Glam, meanwhile, was home to the Malay aristocracy in 1819, before British colonists divided the area between ethnic groups (Chinese, Arabs and Europeans). Today, it remains a stronghold among the Malay-Muslim community and is home to numerous eateries, chic bars and indie shopping boutiques, making it one of the hippest neighborhoods in Singapore. ATTRACTIONS Make time to explore Indian temples like 3 Sri Veeramakaliamman (141 Serangoon Rd.) and Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman (555 Serangoon Rd.) with their beautiful architecture and colorful arches that make for wonderful photo

opportunities. You’re welcome to have a look inside; just remember to take off your shoes. There is also picture-perfect Kampong Kapor Methodist Church (intersection of Kg Kapor Rd. and Veerasamy Rd.), built in 1929 by Singapore’s oldest architectural firm Swan and

WHERE SING A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

Maclaren. Another must-see is the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hall (Race Course Lane)—you’ll know you're at the right place when you see a bronze statue of the man himself on the building's façade. Also known as the Arab Quarter, Kampong Glam is home to the Malay Heritage Centre (85 Sultan Gate, 6391-0450) and the majestic 7 Sultan Mosque (3 Muscat St., 6293-4405), a Muslim place of worship that's stayed essentially unchanged since it was built in the late 1920s.

shopping If you’re looking to buy a new SLR camera or mobile phone, don’t miss 5 Sim Lim Square (1 Rochor Canal Rd., 6338-3859) and 24-hour shopping mecca 2 Mustafa Centre (145 Syed Alwi Rd., 6295-5855). The latter offers pretty much every product under

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Food & Drink Thirsty after all that shopping? Chill out over a cup of fragrant Turkish coffee or a bagalawa shake at Café le Caire (42 Arab St., 6292-0979), before heading for beer at Blu Jaz (11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800), which features live music. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet cocktail custom-made by the mixologists at Bar Stories (57A Haji Lane, 6298-0838). Don’t miss the chance to dine at Islamic Restaurant (745 North Bridge Rd., 6298-7563). Around for almost 50 years, its trademark nasi biryani and mutton rendang are still the stars here. The rustic Fika Bumbu Restaurant (44 Kandahar St., 6392-8628) is also great for its eclectic mix of Indonesian, the sun. Also check out Singapore’s Peranakan and Thai dishes. Or first eco-friendly retail hub, 1 City check out contemporary cafés Square Mall (180 Kitchener Rd., like Fika (257 Beach Rd., 63966595- 6595), housing retailers 9096) for halal Swedish fare and including Uniqlo, Giordano and the charming Working Title (48 Best Denki. Arab St., 9734-4187) for For the fashion forward, affordable brews (both artisanal is the key word coffee and beer). For at Maison Ikkoku (20 vegetarian options, Kandahar St., 6294go to Namaste India 2600). Grab a coffee (288 Serangoon on the first floor before Rd., 6735-6755). If browsing through chic you are feeling a bit menswear from labels adventurous, try the like Hobo, Nuggets and fiery fish head curry at Discovered upstairs. Don't Maison ikkoku the popular Banana Leaf forget to check out the many Apollo (54 Race Course Rd., 6297indie boutiques found along hip 1595). Its Indian dishes are served street 8 Haji Lane. Two of the on banana leaves, and you’re newest are quirky home decor encouraged to use your hands here; and lifestyle stores Mondays Off the wait staff insists that it helps and Shop Wonderland, both of bring out the aroma of the food. which are filled with eclectic items sourced from all over the region.

WHERE SING A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

NEW & NOTED

tonstartssbandht

Tonstartssbandht at Blu Jaz Dec 6, 8pm. 12 Bali Lane, S(189848), 6292-3800, www.facebook.com/ Tonstartssbandht. MRT: Bugis. $20.

Two psychedelic rockers from Florida will be making a pit stop in Singapore as they make their way through Asia. Made up of brothers Edwin and Andy, the duo will perform their ethereal melodic tunes from their newest album, Overseas.

restaurant sela

Restaurant Sela 32 Seah St., S(188388), 63376358, www.restaurantsela.com. sg. MRT: Esplanade.

This modern European restaurant pushes out both tapas and full-sized plates; items are pretty approachable with dishes like duck rillettes and miso squid. They’ve also got a decent wine list and a good list of craft Japanese beers.

EXPLORING

Maxwell Food Centre

back in 1839, it is a masterpiece ATTRACTIONS of traditional architecture, One fascinating heritage site here assembled entirely is the sacred 4 Buddha without nails. National Tooth Relic Temple and monument 6 Sri Museum (288 South Mariamman Temple Bridge Rd., 6220(244 South Bridge 0220), where daily Rd., 6223-4064) is opening ceremonies the oldest Hindu place involving the board of worship here, with bell and drum rituals take place as early Sri Mariammam a history dating back to Temple 1827. To learn more about as 4:30am. Another the culture and history landmark is the 10 Thian of the area, go for Chinatown Hock Keng Temple (158 Telok Ayer Visitor Centre’s (2 Banda St., St., 6423-4616), one of the oldest 6221-5115) daily walking tours. Hokkien temples in Singapore. Built 28 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

This historically rich enclave is known by local Chinese as “niu che shui” (bullock cart water), named after the common sight of oxen-drawn wagons on its streets in the 19th century. Today, the wellpreserved shophouses that once held coolie houses, opium dens, brothels and factories have been replaced with modern bars and restaurants. Though it has evolved significantly over the years, Chinatown continues to boast a unique blend of heritage sites and new buildings with strong cultural influences. DINING Besides traditional street markets that serve local delights, there is 5 Maxwell Food Centre (1 Kadayanallur St.), home to a variety of Singaporean food. To sample Russian fare, pay a visit to Buyan (9 Duxton Hill, 62230027) at 1 Duxton Hill, or head nearby to Lucha Loco (15 Duxton Hill, 6226-3938) for Mexican street food and cocktails. Michelin-starred British chef Jason Atherton has also left his mark here with tapas joint Esquina (16 Jiak Chuan Rd.,

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d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

NEW & NOTED

mars bar happy hour

Mars Bar happy hour Sun-Thu, 5-8pm. Mars Bars, Duxton Hotel, 83 Duxton Rd., S(089540), 9651-6741, www.mixesfrommars.sg. MRT: Tanjong Pagar. Littered with BOOKS

6222-1616) and casual eatery ARTS AND CULTURE The Study (49 Keong Saik Rd., Located nearby is 7 Red Dot 6221-8338). Right next door is Traffic (28 Maxwell Rd., 6534a speakeasy-style secret bar, 7001), which was formerly a which you need a password to traffic police headquarters. Now enter (tip: ask the waiters at The it is home to the Red Dot Design Study). Another great spot for Museum and other creative drinks nearby is swank cocktail services. Many contemporary art bar The Cufflink Club (6 Jiak exhibitions such as the monthly Chuan Rd., 9694-9623). MAAD (Market of Artists And Over at 9 Club Street, Designers) also take place here. you’ll find conserved shophouses occupied SHOPPING by galleries, Chinatown is the obvious restaurants and place to hit up for bars such as 83 (83 souvenirs, snacks and Club St., 6220Chinese herbs. Aside 4083) and wine from the more touristy bar Ô Batignolles (2 Chinatown Street Market The cufflink Gemmill Lane, 6438along Pagoda Street, there club 3913). Head to Luke’s are also quirky lifestyle Oyster Bar & Chophouse (20 stores like Egg3 (#01-10/11/12 Gemmill Lane, 6221-4468) for Scarlet Hotel, 33 Erskine Rd., American food and Ding Dong 6536-6977) and hip Duxton Hill (23 Ann Siang Rd., 6557-0189) for bookstore Littered with Books modern Southeast Asian dishes. (20 Duxton Rd., 6220-6824).

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This pop-up bar will be around till the end of the year, so hurry down for your fix of quirky, locally-inspired cocktails that incorporate and evoke ingredients as unusual as chilli crab and rojak. Cocktails are one-for-one during happy hour.

Tintin shop singapore

Tintin Shop Singapore 28 Pagoda Street, S(059188), 8183-2210, www.tintin.sgstore. com.sg. MRT: Chinatown.

The Tintin Shop Singapore is entirely devoted to Tintin merchandise, including books, greeting cards, postcards, posters, watches, stationery and t-shirts. For the true Tintin fan, they also stock collectible die-cast model cars and limited edition resin and metal figurines.

GROOV

Step Out & Enjoy

EXPLORING

mount faber park

Home to Southeast Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park and one of Singapore’s two integrated resorts, Resorts World Sentosa, Sentosa is filled with exciting worldclass attractions and activities. Meaning “tranquility” in Malay, Sentosa has transformed itself in the last decade from a redevelopment site to a top must-see spot. True to its reputation as one of the region’s leading leisure destinations, this popular island has five-star spas, hotels, excellent restaurants, watering holes and renowned golf courses set amid sandy beaches. ATTRACTIONS One of the best ways to get to Sentosa is via the iconic 10 Singapore Cable Car (109 Mount Faber Rd., 6377-9688) from Mount Faber Park—one of the oldest hilltop parks in Singapore. Within the vicinity is Faber Peak Singapore, with several great wine and dine options such as Faber Bistro and Moonstone offering magnificent views of the

city. You can also take the cable car from Harbourfront Center (HFC). If you feel like doing a little shopping, located beside HFC is 11 VivoCity (1 HarbourFront Walk, 63776860)—Singapore’s largest retail and lifestyle destination. Overlooking the scenic bay is Sentosa Boardwalk, the only garden-themed boardwalk in the region, where you can take a stroll to enter the island. Drop by the

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Sentosa Visitor Center and let the friendly staff advise you on the best attractions and ways to travel around the island. One of the key attractions is 4 Resorts World Sentosa (8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888), where you’ll find Resorts World Casino and the world’s largest oceanarium Marine Life Park, which consists of the S.E.A Aquarium and the Adventure Cove Waterpark.

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Located near Marine Life Park are 3 The Maritime Experiential Museum—an interactive, multisensorial museum showcasing Asia’s maritime history—and The Coliseum at Hard Rock Hotel (39 Artillery Ave., 6577-8899), a flexible open space that has staged international acts such as Vertical Horizon and Jimmy Eat World. There’s also the highly popular 5 Universal Studios Singapore (11 Sentosa East Mall, 6577-8888), which features around 24 moviethemed rides and attractions, 18 of which are unique to Singapore. The coastline is lined with many beaches, each with their distinct characteristics. Siloso Beach, with its volleyball courts, is great for beach activities and water sports. It also has some of the most interesting bars and restaurants like C Side (50 Siloso Beach Walk, 6631-8938) and Wave House Sentosa (36 Siloso Beach Walk, 6377-3113), where you can experience Singapore’s first artificial barreling wave.

Next to Siloso Beach is 2 Underwater World Singapore and Dolphin Lagoon (80 Siloso Rd., 6275-0030), where you can watch seals and dolphins performing or feed gentle stingrays. 1 Fort Siloso (33 Allanbrooke Rd., 6736-8672) is also nearby. This preserved coastal fort contains the nation’s largest collection of World War II memorabilia and hosts interactive guided tours. For those who prefer some peace and quiet, 7 Tanjong Beach is ideal, especially for a romantic date at night. Restaurant and bar Tanjong Beach Club (120 Tanjong Beach Walk, 6270-1355) offers stunning beachfront dining—great for couples looking to spend some quality time together. A family-friendly destination, 6 Palawan Beach has a range of shops and eateries that interest both young and old. For a unique experience, glide effortlessly down the beach on your own personal transporter at Gogreen Segway Eco Adventure (50 Beach View, 9825-4066). More food options can also be found at 9 Quayside Isle (31 Ocean Way, 6694-3410), a lifestyle destination with a wide selection of waterfront-facing restaurants. Otherwise, pamper yourself with indulgent massages at Auriga Spa (Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, 6377-8888) or So Spa (The Sentosa Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Rd., 6371-1288). Golf lovers will also be excited to know that 8 Sentosa Golf Club (27 Bukit Manis Rd., 62750090) boasts two of the region’s most challenging 18-hole courses.

34 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

NEW & NOTED

The flaming lipS

The Flaming Lips & Tenacious D Dec 1 & 2, 8pm. Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8899, S(098269), www.thegathering.asia. MRT: HarbourFront. $78-166.

Prepare for two consecutive nights of great music as comedic rock band Tenacious D (fronted by the actor Jack Black) make their Singapore debut, followed by psychedelic rock group The Flaming Lips the night after, both happening at the Hard Rock Coliseum.

Insadong Korea Town #01-30/33, 26 Sentosa Gateway, 6238-8221, S(098138), www.insadong.sg. MRT: HarbourFront.

Singapore’s very own Korean food street has opened its doors in Resorts World Sentosa and features over 300 stalls offering authentic and popular Korean fare. It is set in a market-place type space that is designed to evoke Seoul’s famous Insadong district.

EXPLORING

ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM

(30 Raffles Ave., 6734-8829), a ATTRACTIONS Located at the southern 165m-tall giant observation wheel. Examples of early colonial tip of the island near the Across the water—a short architecture abound here. There is Central Business District walk over the beautiful glass and the 150-year-old 3 Saint Andrew’s steel mesh 8 Helix Bridge—is 11 (CBD), Marina Bay is home Cathedral (11 St Andrew's Rd., Gardens by the Bay (18 Marina to luxury hotels, brand-name 6337-6104), the nation’s largest Gardens Dr., 6471-7808) cathedral, and Raffles Hotel boutiques, exclusive nightlife with close to 100,000 (1 Beach Rd., 6337-1886), spots, fine dining destinations a regal establishment rare plants in domed conservatories. Another and world-class theaters— opened back in 1887. attraction here is the You can also find all of which are connected 10 ArtScience Museum modern architectural by a beautiful waterfront (Marina Bay Sands, 10 sites such as the promenade. The heart of Bayfront Ave., 6688-8868), distinctive spike-covered ESPLANADE which houses touring 4 Esplanade - Theatres on this district is the integrated international exhibitions. the Bay (1 Esplanade Dr., resort by the Las Vegas 6828-8377), a top spot to watch Sands group, Marina Bay DINING & nightlife world-class entertainment acts. There’s plenty to eat, too, with Sands (MBS). It comprises Nearby, the three-story 6 F1 Pit an array of options at Marina Bay Building (1 Republic Blvd., 6884three towers and a shopping Sands. Japanese dining temple 6940) is a hub for the Singapore arcade, with sumptuous Waku Ghin (#02-02 Marina Bay leg of the Grand Prix, just next suites and a casino. Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688door to the 7 Singapore Flyer WHERE SING A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

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december 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

NEW & NOTED

ARTSCIENCE LATE: UNDO

ArtScience Late: Undo Dec 11, 7pm. ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8888, S(018974), www.marinabaysands.com/ ArtScienceMuseum. MRT: Bayfront. Free.

The December edition of the monthly ArtScience Late is a collaboration between media artist Andreas Schlegal and artist/poet Bani Haykal. Set amongst devices like computers, lights, sound and text, the performance evokes both chaos and order through distorted perspectives.

Oppo Concept Store #01-627 Suntec City Mall, Tower 3, 8 Temasek Blvd., S (038988), www.oppomobile. com.sg. MRT: Promenade.

China-based smartphone manufacturer Oppo, which is steadily growing in popularity, has opened their first Singapore flagship store, where visitors can test out their phones, check out audio products and participate in bi-monthly workshops to learn more about the brand’s smartphones.

LAU PA SAT

8507) and American celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck’s steakhouse Cut (#B1-71 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 66888517) are both on-site. For the best views of the city, try Sky on 57 (57/F Sands SkyPark, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8857) or Ku Dé Ta (57/F Sands SkyPark, Marina Bay Sands Tower 3, 1 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7688). At night, clubbers can visit glamorous party venue Pangaea (South Crystal Pavilion, Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave., 86117013), but be sure you're dressed to the nines. Other top spots are at 2 Swissôtel the Stamford (2 Stamford Rd., 6338-8585), including French fine dining restaurant Jaan (70/F Equinox Complex, Swissôtel the Stamford, 6837-3322) and New Asia Bar (71-72/F Equinox Complex, Swissôtel the Stamford, 6431-5681). Waterfront Spanish restaurant Catalunya (The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, 6534-0188, S(049327), www.catalunya.sg) also boasts incredible views of the bay.

w HERE SING A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

For local food, visit 13 Lau Pa Sat (18 Raffles Quay, 6220-2138), a Victorian cast-iron structure with a wide range of hawker stalls. Also from the colonial era is the 19th century convent and chapel compound, 1 Chijmes (30 Victoria St., 6337-7810), which is today a food and beverage haven.

SHOPPING 12 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands house Louis Vuitton’s first Island Maison store (Crystal Pavilion North, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6788-3888) in Southeast Asia, as well as Ralph Lauren’s duplex store (#B1/ B2-72/68 Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7161). Beyond that, there’s 5 Suntec City Mall (3 Temasek Blvd., 68252667) featuring a comprehensive range of boutiques, as well as the Fountain of Wealth. For a quieter shopping experience, head to Millenia Walk (9 Raffles Blvd., 6883-1122) for high-end stores like Cortina Watch and Bose.

EXPLORING

Singapore River

MICA Building

Back in the early days, the Singapore River was the former British colony’s main trade artery and focus for all commercial activity. Today, the riverbanks are still abuzz but the bustle of entrepôt trade has been replaced with an array of restaurants, after-dark entertainment and historical spots. The contrasting sight of restored colonial landmarks like The Fullerton Hotel sat next to towering modern skyscrapers makes this neighborhood a particularly striking one to explore. ATTRACTIONS The sculpture of the mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish is one of Singapore’s most iconic mascots. Known as the 11 Merlion (1 Fullerton Square, 6736-6622), its head represents the country’s original name Singapura (lion city) while its body symbolizes the fishing village that the island used to be. See the historical site where Sir Stamford Raffles landed in 1819 and the architecturally stunning

10 Cavenagh Bridge (linked to the Marina waterfront). It’s also hard to miss the 5 MICA Building (140 Hill St., 6270-7988), home to the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts, with its distinctive colorful window shutters. Explore this vibrant stretch along the river via the Singapore River Cruise (63366111, www.rivercruise.com.sg, $3), which takes you from Clarke Quay to the Singapore Flyer to Marina Bay Sands.

36 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

The first museum in the region to present a broad perspective of pan-Asian cultures and civilizations is the 9 Asian Civilisations Museum (1 Empress Place, 6332-2982). It houses 11 galleries that showcase over 1,300 artifacts. If you prefer theater, the Singapore Repertory Theatre (20 Merbau Rd., 6221-5585) stages both original and popular classic productions, including David Ives’ Venus In Fur and Peter Brook’s The Suit.

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1. Zouk 2. Robertson Quay 3. Central 4. Clarke Quay 5. MICA Building 6. The Padang 7. Boat Quay 8. Raffles Landing Site 9. Asian Civilisations Museum 10. Cavenagh Bridge 11. Merlion

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d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

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NEW & NOTED

reddot brewhouse

RedDot Brewhouse’s Christmas promotions The spiffy dapper

boat quay

DINING and NIGHTLIFE Over the years, the Singapore River has grown to include a host of eateries and nightlife spots, one of which is 7 Boat Quay. Here, you will find bustling bars showing live sports on TV like Harry’s and hipster cocktail bars like The Spiffy Dapper. In the area, located just above Clarke Quay MRT, is 3 Central (6 Eu Tong Sen St., 6532-9922), which offers great dining options like awardwinning ramen house Marutama Ramen, fashion boutiques, as well as eclectic retailers like Goods of Desire (G.O.D.).

If you’re looking to paint the town red, 4 Clarke Quay is right up your alley. Enjoy your meal with live entertainment at restaurant/bars such as Aquanova and The Pump Room. If beer is more your thing, knock back pints at Beer Market or Brewerkz. Those who want to dance the night away can pop by clubs like Attica or Fenix Room. The 2 Robertson Quay stretch houses restaurants like sexy Argentinean joint Bochinche and Belgian mussels bar Brussels Sprouts. Those exploring this area in the day have plenty of options, too. For a peaceful afternoon away from the hustle and bustle, take your pick from chic cafés like Toby’s Estate and specialty chocolatier Laurent Bernard. If you prefer something a little more happening after dark, visit 1 Zouk (17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988) for a world-class clubbing experience. The longest standing club in Singapore, this nightspot has a constant stream of international guest DJs.

38 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

Through Dec 26. 34 Boat Quay, 6535-4500, S(049823) www.reddotbrewhouse.com.sg. MRT: Raffles Place.

Have a festive drink over at independent microbrewery, RedDot Brewhouse. They have created a special Christmas brew, a Sauvignon Ale ($12.50), with dry and fruity hops brimming with pomelo, grapefruit, grape and white wine characteristics. There’ll also be a live band and caroling on Christmas Eve.

Float @ the bay

Float @ The Bay Clifford Pier, 8139-9115, S(049326), www.floatatthebay. com.sg. MRT: Raffles Place.

Hop on board Singapore’s first floating bar and you’ll get to cruise along the scenic Singapore River while sipping on cocktails and taking in the city’s spectacular skyline. Happy hour happens daily from 5-7pm with discounts on housepours, wines and beers.

the guide

Night Magic Night Safariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual event Mystica, now its fourth edition, lets visitors experience the beloved nocturnal wildlife park in a whole new way. Visitors are equipped with a quest map as they embark on a mystical quest that sees them navigating through the park in search of game stations, where challenges await. Along the way, expect to meet curious creatures of the night, such as the slithery snake and majestic lion heads. Fridays and Saturdays, Nov 21-Dec 20. $25 (children), $39 (adults). 80 Mandai Lake Rd., S(729826), 6269-3411, www.mystica.com.sg. MRT: Choa Chu Kang & Ang Mo Kio.

40 attractions 42 arts & culture 44 shopping 46 Wellness 48 dining 51 Nightlife d e cember 2014 I WH ERE SINGAPO RE

the guide

Attractions

Throwback Time As Singapore celebrates 50 years of independence, Singapura: 700 Years tracks Singapore’s transformation over the course of the last seven centuries and how it went from a humble fishing village to the nation-state it is today. The exhibition will also see history being presented in a more engaging way, with the use a range of interactive multimedia and technology. Through Aug 2015. National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-3659, S(178897), www.nationalmuseum.sg. MRT: Bras Basah. $5.

Farm Fresh

7 reasons to head to north-western Singapore surburb Kranji.

Kranji Farmers Market

Conceived in 2005 to raise awareness about Singapore’s rural north-west, the Kranji Countryside

Association has been pushing their agenda forward with their real farmers’ market, which looks to promote local agriculture, food production and eco-tourism. Expect deliciously fresh fruits and veggies plus locally-made

40 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

products like granola and peanut butter. 240 Neo Tiew Crescent, 9739-6677, S(718898), www. facebook.com/farmersmarketsg. MRT: Kranji.

attractions

Bollywood Veggies

This 10-acre farm grows over 100 varieties of fruit and vegetables, all without the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. For starters, there are over 20 types of banana grown here (used to make great curry and banana bread at the on-site Poison Ivy Bistro). Tours of the farm and its aromatic spice garden can be arranged. Visiting hours are Wed-Sun, 9am-6pm. 100 Neo Tiew Rd., 6898-5001, S(719026), www. bollywoodveggies.com. MRT: Kranji.

D’kranji resort

D’Kranji Resort

Check into this cozy and rustic five hectare urban retreat with various villas to suit your specific needs; this resort is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. There’s also a fishing village and the Swiftlet Garden Museum, a professionally curated exhibition on birds. 10 Neo Tiew Lane 2, 68629717, S(718813), www.dkranji.com. sg. MRT: Kranji.

Singapore’s only protected wetland reserve is home to over 160 species of birds and over 500 types of tropical plants. The best time to visit is early morning when the wildlife is at its most active. Keep an eye out for water snakes, crabs and even otters. 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, 6794-1401, S(718925), www.sbwr.org.sg. MRT: Kranji. © walter lim

bollywood veggies

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Seng Choon

A pioneer in producing high-quality farm eggs, Seng Choon has made its mark as the first well-known high-tech poultry farm in Southeast Asia. It’s also adopted a pretty meticulous poultry care system, which you’ll get to see for yourself when you visit. Tech advances include instant egg collection and even auto-egg inspection & crack detection systems. No. 1 Jalan Gamala 2, 6762-2858, S(718798), www.sengchoonfarm. com. MRT: Kranji.

SPOTLIGHT

kranji war memorial

Kranji War Memorial

For a sombre glimpse into Singapore’s wartime past, stop by the Kranji War Memorial. This site remembers the thousands of servicemen who fought against invading Japanese forces during WWII. The names of over 24,000 casualties of war are inscribed on the walls of the main building, and more than 5,000 soldiers lie beneath its green lawns. 9 Woodlands Rd., S(738656). MRT: Kranji.

Thow Kwang Industry

One of the last-surviving “dragon kilns” in Singapore, this was built in the 1940s and was used to fire ceramic products. Visitors every first Sunday of the month (9:30am-12pm) get to watch potters work their magic with clay, from throwing, firing, hand-building to glazing. 85 Lorong Tawas, 6268-6121, S(639823), thowkwangclayartists.wordpress. com. MRT: Kranji.

Green Thumbs Singapore Botanic Gardens’ new Gardens Shop is a library-themed store stocking a curated range of books across titles on history, art, photography, home and living. Visitors can also browse through botanical publications and books on gardening as well as pick up collectible souvenirs with botanical prints. Botany Centre, Tanglin Gate, Singapore Botanic Gardens, 1 Cluny Rd., S(259569). MRT: Botanic Gardens.

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

ARTS & CULTURE

the guide

Creative Geniuses There’s plenty going this month at ArtScience Museum. Art & Science of Photography: An Ocean of Possibilities (through Dec 28) showcases photographic works championing social development, while Da Vinci: Shaping the Future (ongoing) is a blockbuster with 26 original drawings and paintings by celebrated artist Leonardo Da Vinci. Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8826, S(018956), www.marinabaysands.com/artsciencemuseum. $5-19 from Sistic.

Museum Hopping

Get in touch with the arts scene and Singapore’s past at these museums.

Asian Civilisations Museum

Located in a 135-year-old building which used to be the Government Office in colonial times, the sprawling Asian Civilisations Museum is the first museum in Southeast Asia to present

a broad perspective of pan-Asian cultures and civilizations. Among the many sections, don’t miss the Singapore River Gallery, which tells the story of immigrants who worked along the Singapore River. 1 Empress Place, 6332-7798, S(179555), www.acm.org.sg. MRT: Raffles Place.

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SAM@8Q

Singapore Art Museum’s lesser-known sister museum is dedicated to contemporary postmodern art and all things avant-garde. While the main building houses fine art pieces from before the 1970s, this annex is home to artists of the present

arts & culture

memories at old ford factory

Memories at Old Ford Factory

Famously known as a site of surrender, it was here that Singapore was surrendered in World War II by the British to the Japanese and was renamed Syonan-to under Japanese

Voices_where magazine ad_pathed.indd 1

occupation. It’s now home to a collection of wartime images and artifacts, and the gardens around it are filled with trees that provided Singaporeans with sustenance during the occupation. 351 Upper Bukit Timah Rd., S(588192), www.moff.nas. sg. MRT: Bukit Batok.

Singapore Philatelic Museum

This former missionary school once served as the school chaplain’s house before it was converted into a bookshop. Restored in 1995, the Philatelic Museum presents Singapore’s collection of stamps, philatelic materials and postal artifacts, dating from the 1830s to the present. 23B Coleman St., 63373888, S(179807), www.spm.org.sg. MRT: City Hall.

day, and showcases paintings, sculptures, new media, photography and more. 8 QueenStreet., S(189555), www.singaporeartmuseum.sg. MRT: Bras Basah.

the changi museum

The Changi Museum

This museum is dedicated to the prisoners of war (POWs) held captive at Changi Prison during the Japanese Occupation of Singapore from 1942-1945. A nostalgic collection of artwork, photographs, and personal artifacts donated by former POWs is housed here, along with a replica of the makeshift chapels used by the prisoners. 1000 Upper Changi Rd., 6214-2451, S(507707), www.changimuseum.com. MRT: Changi Airport.

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d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

SHOPPING

the guide

Luxe Landing Known for its floral prints and innovative textures that blend Japanese influences with Parisian sensibilities, designer label Kenzo has recently set up a flagship boutique at Marina Bay Sands. Expect the same bold patterns and sharply-tailored clothing that the label is known for worldwide. #01-22/23/24 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., S(018956), www.marinabaysands. com/shopping/kenzo. MRT: Bayfront.

Dapper Threads

Find cult labels, casual wear and tailored threads at these menswear stores.

ambush

Ambush

Still one of the best high fashion boutiques in Singapore after more than a decade, this menswearfocused multi-label store

specializes in high-end streetwear and on-trend collections from cult labels like Head Porter and Ssur. Threads from this cutting-edge store are guaranteed to keep you ahead of the fashion pack. #03-14 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6836-7667, S(238867), www. ambushstore.com. MRT: Somerset.

Blackbarrett

The second Asian outpost of designer Neil Barrett’s offshoot line looks just as cool as the label’s design aesthetic, with its sharp

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edges, black-and-white color palette and minimal layout. Discreet, subculture-inspired menswear hangs in cage-like displays, while bags, footwear and accessories are spread throughout the store. #02-17/18 Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd., 63041345, S(238859), www.club21global. com. MRT: Orchard.

Benjamin Barker

Everything a guy needs for a dapper wardrobe can be found here—shirts, pants, blazers, ties, lapel pins, pocket squares and even

shopping polished leather shoes. Shoppers can get a suit custom-fitted and personalize it further with finishes like grosgrain ribbon, embroidery and vintage buttons. #03-01 Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, 8 Grange Rd., 6235-3703, S(239695), www. facebook.com/BenjaminBarkerStore. MRT: Somerset.

beluga

Beluga

Stylish threads from Swedish brand Nikolaj d’etoiles, France’s Sixpack, American label Kill City and London footwear brand Swear occupy the racks and shelves of this minimalistic boutique. But the real reason for the healthy stream of shoppers is the store’s in-house label Grandiosity—a range of good quality basics that are both fashionable and affordable. #02-05 The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd, 6735-3573, S(229233), www.belugastore.com. MRT: Dhoby Ghaut.

fiftyfive

Fiftyfive

Clad in dark wood and industrial hanging lamps, this swanky boutique offers a faultless range of menswear and accessories from

the founders’ portfolio, plus local indie labels including Crawford & Sons and Carrie K. They also stock international names like Jack Spade, Masunaga Eyewear and Saphir shoe products from France. 55B Boat Quay, S(049844), www.facebook.com/ fiftyfivesg. MRT: Clarke Quay.

FurrMuse

Specializing in cool casuals and preppy shirts, this is one of the best local menswear labels. Their second standalone boutique (after Orchard Cineleisure), features work-appropriate slacks and longsleeved shirts in a wide range of fabrics, including linen, chambray and poplin. #03-05 Bugis+, 201 Victoria St., 6884-7990, S(188067), www.furrmuse.com.sg. MRT: Bugis.

kevin seah bespoke

Kevin Seah Bespoke

Get measured by one of Singapore’s finest tailors, Kevin Seah, for a traditional Savile Row standard suit that features fine 1/8” French seams, 23 stitches per inch and mother of pearl buttons. Kevin Seah’s atelier is open by appointment only. 5 Jalan Kilang, 9188-4681, S(159405), www.kevinseah.com.sg. MRT: Redhill.

custom-made shoes by Hong Kong brand Shoe Artistry. 116A Telok Ayer St., 6636-6939, S(068585), www.q-menswear.com. MRT: Telok Ayer.

SPOTLIGHT

Fashion Pit Stop Popular e-retailer Zalora has set up a pop-up shop at ION Orchard, featuring a curated range of clothing and accessories for men and women. You can browse and select items (with tablets placed throughout the store offering styling tips) and then use self-serve checkout counters to process your payment. Instead of walking out with bags of clothes, your items are then delivered to your home address. Through Jan 31 2015. #B2-04/05 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, S(238801), www.zalora.sg. MRT: Orchard.

Q Menswear

Get fitted by Chong Han San, an alumni of successful local designer label Raoul and co-founder of bespoke menswear label Clothesmith. There are over 2,000 fabrics (from conventional to quirky) to choose from for your own bespoke suit and

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

WELLNESS

the guide

New Age The team behind Singapore’s award-winning Duck Tours have come up with an allnew spa concept. Breaking away from convention, their multi-themed spa is aptly named Spa Detour and features 12 treatment rooms, a screening room, a fish spa and a café. Expect massages (from $33) in a barn-inspired setting, enjoy a “sleep” treatment (from $10) in a rabbit hole-like space or have your nails done (from $17) in a theater. #03-340 Suntec City Mall Tower 3, 3 Temasek Blvd., 6733-8687, S(038983), www.detour.com.sg. MRT: Esplanade.

Hair Affair Get a fresh new mane at these fancy hair salons. 1

Next Hair Salon #03-24A Ion Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn,

Blow+Bar #01-32 The Water Mark, 7 Rodyk St., 6238-7338,

6509-0220, S(238801), www.nexthairsalon.com. MRT: Orchard. S(238215), www.blowplusbar.com. MRT: Chinatown. 3

Kim Robinson #02-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd.,

Prep #03-34 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., S(238897),

Shunji Matsuo #05-23 391 Orchard Rd., Ngee Ann City

S(238873), www.kimrobinson.com. MRT: Orchard. www.prepyourhair.com. MRT: Somerset. Tower B, S(238872), www.shunjimatsuo.com.sg. MRT: Orchard. 46 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

blow+Bar

wellness Flex and Stretch

There’s a yoga studio out there for everyone.

Meraki Yoga

Tucked away in a tranquil condo near One North MRT, this is one of the very few yoga places in this part of Singapore. They have a bright space with lots of natural light and offer various styles of yoga—hatha, classic and flow—with heated and non-heated options available. Drop-in rates start at $43. 7 One-north Gateway, 9172-7712, S(138642), www.merakiyoga.sg. MRT: One North.

yoga movement

Como Shambhala Urban Escape

This yoga and pilates studio offers ashtanga, hatha, lyengar, pranayama and even problem-specific classes like Back Care Yoga and Yoga for Runners. They’ve also got massage services to aid injury recovery as well as a retail corner selling yoga apparel and their in-house line of body care products. $40 for a drop-in class. #06-01/02, Delfi Orchard, 402 Orchard Rd., 6304-3552, S(238876), www.comoshambhala.com. MRT: Orchard Road.

Yoga Movement

Located in the Boat Quay area, this is a small yet cozy space with black-and-white posters, glossy wooden floors and mood lighting. Choose from six heated and non-heated classes; standouts are their Yoga Basics class (great for beginners) and their signature 90-minute Monster Hot class. $25 for a drop-in class. 31 New Bridge Rd., 6534-4670, S(059394), www.yogamovement.com.sg. MRT: Clarke Quay.

room, and the instructors are pretty hardcore, so it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. An eight-day trial pass costs $58. 130 East Coast Rd., 6348-8705, S(428815), www.bikramyogakatong.com. MRT: Paya Lebar.

Bikram Yoga Katong

This boutique studio is home to yoga enthusiasts who sometimes venture out to the beach or even on to boats to practice. The mainstay is classic Bikram yoga—26 poses (each done twice) in 90 minutes. It’s a very hot

Ziva Yoga

Located in a quaint little rustic hut amid verdant greenery, Ziva is bright, spacious and well-ventilated. You’ll find your usual yoga staples (hot and non-hot), like vinyasa, hatha, hot yoga and core flow. They also offer options for beginners and the more advanced, plus specific yoga classes for kids and pre-natal women. $28 for a drop-in class. 10 Seng Poh Rd., 6220-2500, S(168895), www. zivayoga.com.sg. MRT: Outram Park.

SPOTLIGHT

Cycle Craze

home yoga

Hom Yoga

This bright, spacious studio is incredibly stylish, with floor-toceiling windows and mirrors, as well as organic timbered floors. They have over 60 hot classes weekly, including hatha and vinyasa, but their signature is the multi-level Hot Hom, which is based on hatha and ashtanga postures, and is great for detox. $40 for a drop-in class. #0612/13 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6238-0101, S(238896), www. homyoga.sg. MRT: Somerset.

New indoor cycling studio CruCycle offers a series of dynamic, high-energy spin classes. The single-studio gym has five daily classes, each lasting 50-minutes and catering to all cycling abilities and fitness levels. Unlike most cycling workouts, these classes incorporate an ab workout and arm strengthening exercises into every session. Drop-in prices for classes start at $50. 68 Duxton Rd., S(089527), www.crucycle.com. MRT: Tanjong Pagar.

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

dining

the guide

Dine O’Clock With its gorgeous historical architecture, lifestyle enclave Chijmes has always been a Singaporean favorite. Fresh from a top-to-toe revamp and new restaurants and bar openings, there are even more reasons to revisit now. New highlights include modern Mexican restaurant El Mero Mero (pictured), Asian-leaning gastropub Here & There, casual cafe Prive and Oyster Bar & Wine Dining Wharf. 30 Victoria St., 6337-7810, S(187996), www.chijmes.com.sg. MRT: City Hall.

Tapas Resurgence

There’s nothing better than sharing small plates and light bites.

Bam! Tapas and Sake Bar

The small space feels warm and convivial, thanks to the bustling open kitchen. The restaurant combines the best of Spanish tapas and Japanese sake for an oddly harmonious match. There’s even a sake-pairing menu where Japanese ingredients get the Latin treatment; think Kurobuta pork in Jerusalem artichoke soup and Japanese momotaro tomatoes on coca bread. 38 Tras St., 6226-0500, S(078977), www.bam.sg. MRT: Tanjong Pagar.

Binomio

This is a solid bet for classic tapas dishes like tortilla de patatas (Spanish potato omelette). Don’t miss their roasted suckling pig, which can be shared by three people, or the vegetable stew Rioja-style with slow cooked organic egg. We love their $69 deal that gets you six different tapas items of your choosing. #01-02 Craig Place, 20 Craig Rd., 65570547, S(089692), www.binomio.sg. MRT: Tanjong Pagar.

48 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

Esquina

Be prepared to wait at Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton’s stylish, intimate space, which is typically packed to the rafters. Executive chef Andrew Walsh makes some mean dishes that are perfect for sharing, from amuse bouche-portioned Spanish breakfast eggs to heartier sea bass with chorizo red pepper paella and black olives. 16 Jiak Chuan Rd., 6222-1616, S(089267), www.esquina.com.sg. MRT: Outram Park.

dining SPOTLIGHT

Old School Style Designed like a classic local coffeeshop, new gastropub Tiong Bahru Club has all the vintage flourishes you would expect (think metal fuse boxes and tongue-in-cheek vintage signs). They serve up a range of local fare like sambal eggplant ($10.80) and kampung fried rice ($8.80) as well as hard-to-find Eurasian dishes such as stewed beef smore ($15.80). #01-88 57 Eng Hoon St., 64380168, S(160057), www.facebook. com/thesingapuraclub. MRT: Tiong Bahru.

Lolla

This longstanding restaurant in a shophouse has been pushing out perfectly-cooked morsels for a number of years. The main dining area is an open-concept bar counter so you can watch the chefs at work. Food here is simple, with items such as well-executed scrambled eggs crowned with generous shavings of bottarga, and understated yet scrumptious duck fat potatoes. 22 Ann Siang Rd., 6423-1228, S(069702), www.lolla.com.sg. MRT: Telok Ayer.

My Little Spanish Place

This homey, all-rounder neighborhood joint offers a range of tapas and has a dedicated jamon bar with specimens like Joselito, which is aged for four years, and Fermin, just 18-20 months old. They also have a comforting brunch menu including some stellar churros as well as savories like huevos al horno (baked eggs with tomato and chorizo). 619 Bukit Timah Rd., S(269720), www.mylittlespanishplace. com.sg. MRT: Botanic Gardens.

Ola Cocina del Mar

Helmed by Peruvian Chef Daniel Chavez, this slightly hidden Spanish restaurant has a vibrant open bar counter and kitchen atmosphere. This spot has friendly service and simple, wellexecuted food. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the pulpo a la brasa, a delicious dish of grilled octopus with smoked paprika, tomatoes, peas and black olives, as well as the stellar vanilla rice pudding. #01-06 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3, 12 Marina Blvd., 6604-7050, S(018982), www.olarestaurant.sg. MRT: Downtown.

For more great restaurants, download our dining guide from www.is-magazine.com/store

Shahi Maharani Namaste! We invite you to sample the royal cuisine enjoyed by the Moghul Emperors of a bygone era. Whether you are trying curries, biryanis or offerings from the Royal Tandoor Oven, our cooks bring you an exciting blend of exotic spices, passed down through generations from the royal chefs. Come and enjoy an exciting gastronomic experience you will never forget. #03-21B Raffles City Shopping Centre (3/F Fairmont Singapore), 252 North Bridge Rd., 6235-8840, S(179103), www.shahimaharani.com. Open daily noon-2:30pm, 6:30-10:30pm. 50 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

the guide

nightlife

Hop to It Pop-up cocktail bar Hopscotch, by the folks behind the similarly-themed Mars Bar, serves up wacky liquid interpretations of local dishes and even places. The Golden 933 ($21) is a particularly accurate reinterpretation of cereal prawns, using butterwashed rum, a chilli tincture and curry leaves, while the cherry shisha-smoked Arab Street ($23) perfectly evokes the historic neighborhood with saffron rosewater, pomegranate syrup and gin. #01-04 RedDot Traffic Building, 28 Maxwell Rd., 6327-4820, S(069120), www.facebook.com/HopscotchByMFM. MRT: Tanjong Pagar.

Countdown Parties

Catch the New Year's Eve fireworks and count down in style.

Marina Bay Singapore Countdown

Our version of Times Square, the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown is the quintessential New Year countdown spot. There will be a wishing spheres light display installation and fireworks set to music composed for the occasion. The event also kickstarts a year-long series of events celebrating

Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50th birthday. Marina Bay, www.marinabaycountdown.sg. MRT: Bayfront.

Marina bay singapore countdown

Siloso Beach Party

With an expected turnout of 20,000, this event is reputed to be Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest on the beach countdown party. The 12-hour celebration at Siloso Beach will have a foam pool, separate party areas playing trance, house and electro tunes and plenty of food and drink. Siloso Beach Walk, 1800-736-8672, www.silosobeachparty.com. MRT: HarbourFront.

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

nightlife to party the night away. Last year’s celebrations saw appearances by local celebrities, live performances by Singaporean bands, games and lots of unmissable dining and drink promotions. 3 River Valley Rd., www.clarkequay.com.sg. MRT: Clarke Quay. 1-altitude

1-Altitude

Loof

For last year’s countdown, the sky-high nightlife venue organized a carnival-themed celebration complete with theatrical performances, and they’re looking to go even bigger and bolder this year. You’re also guaranteed an amazing view of the fireworks over Marina Bay. 61-63/F One Raffles Place, 64380410, www.1-altitude.com. MRT: Raffles Place.

Another great place to catch the fireworks is the considerably more laid-back, low-slung rooftop bar Loof. If last year’s party is anything to go by, revelers can expect a fun mix of hip hop, soul and guilty pleasure mash-ups by local DJs. #03-07 Odeon Towers, 331 North Bridge Rd., 9773-9304, S(188720), www.loof. com.sg. MRT: Bras Basah.

Clarke Quay

The famed nightlife enclave gets crazy every New Year’s Eve, so this is the place to go if you want

Manhattan

The swanky bar’s unmissable NYE bash starts with a six-course dinner with oysters, caviar, foie gras torchon, Angus beef and decadent cocktails like a Pomme Sazerac and a BillecartSalmon Champagne bomb with dark chocolate Sfera. DJ Suzee X keeps the party going with her funky soul house tunes. 2/F Regent Singapore, 1 Cuscaden Rd., 6725-3232, S(249715), www.facebook.com/ manhattansg. MRT: Orchard.

jaan

Jaan

New Year’s at this vertiginous restaurant involves a 10-course degustation dinner ($498++) with a glass of Krug champagne and unbelievable views of the fireworks. 70/F Equinox Complex, Swissotel the Stamford, 2 Stamford Rd., 6837-3322, S(178882), www. jaan.com.sg. MRT: City Hall.

The Cliff

For a more romantic New Year’s Eve getaway, The Cliff on Sentosa has an extravagant seven-

52 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

course dinner ($260++) with items like truffle soup, miso-glazed black cod and Tajima beef with beetroot fondue. Continue the night at the resort’s countdown party where there will be canapés, Champagne, wine, cocktails and other drinks. The Singapore Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Rd., 6371-1425, S(099891), www.singaporeresortsentosa. MRT: HarbourFront.

SPOTLIGHT

Drinks On Top Low-slung rooftop bar Southbridge is a swanky new entrant to the Boat Quay scene. At this geometric, modern, fully-alfresco space, patrons can tuck into oysters (from $20), sip on Champagne (from $18/glass) and drink in a gorgeous view of the Singapore River. Other drink options include cocktails, wines, beers, housepour spirits and bottles; while the truffle and smoked pancetta bikini sandwiches ($12) and juicy pulled pork sliders ($12) are delicious, too. 5/F 80 Boat Quay, 6536-5818, S(049868), www.southbridge. sg. MRT: Clarke Quay.

Property

the guide

INSIDER TIPS Property insider Sherry Tay (9800-6193, sherrytay. propnex@gmail.com) of real estate agency Propnex (www.propnex.com) dishes out some tips for visitors who may be interested in investing.

Purchase method

One can either purchase a piece of private residential property straight from the developer or from the resale market. Depending on your expectations and finances as an investor, there are advantages and disadvantages to both. For example, the former entails a wait of about three to four years before the property is ready for occupancy, while the latter may have existing tenants, so you can start making money right away.

Proceeds from rental

If you would like to maximize proceeds from rental, look for areas with tenant pools from the Central Business District (CBD), business parks, hospitals, top schools and universities. Rental yield at these locations can be as high as 5% per annum. In addition to that, factors such as the growing carpark crunch in the CBD might push people to eye properties even closer to their workplace, driving demand and rent prices up.

Capital appreciation

Another way to look at the return on your investment is to consider how much the property would appreciate in value over a span of, say, five years (when you decide to sell it). This, too, depends on the location, but it’s worth taking a look at the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (www.ura.gov.sg) Master Plan to find out about the potential development of different areas across the island. The more infrastructure and business there are in the works for a particular area, the more likely property prices are likely to surge in the coming years.

Risk

Before buying, do consider the risks involved. To illustrate economic risk, consider two similar-sized units selling at roughly the same price, one at Redhill MRT (four stops from the CBD) and the other at Kovan MRT (over 10 stops away). In the event of an economic downturn, the latter has a lower chance of being rented out—and thus poses more of a risk. Additionally, for those not prepared to take a big risk, it makes good sense to invest in a high-profile project rather than an obscure one.

Property 101 by Dennis Chan, Head of Sales at KOP Properties (www. kop-properties.com) Non-Singapore citizens are allowed to purchase condominium apartments, commercial and industrial properties. 15% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty applies for residential properties. Contact a property agency, real estate salesperson or property developer to get started. When making your purchase, you will have to put up a deposit (usually 1% to 5%) to receive the Option to Purchase or Sales & Purchase Agreement. Then, engage a qualified law firm in Singapore to transfer ownership to the buyer. The above process takes approximately 8 to 12 weeks.

Online resources: www.iProperty.com.sg | www.PropertyGuru.com.sg | www.STProperty.sg

54 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

the guide

Useful Information

DRINKING WATER—Water in Singapore is clean and safe to drink from the tap. ELECTRICITY—The voltage here is 220‑240 AC, 50 Hertz. LOST PASSPORT/SINGAPORE IMMIGRATION SERVICES—If you’ve lost your passport, make a police report; then head to Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (10 Kallang Rd., 6391‑6100) to get a temporary visa. Finally, inform your embassy so you can get through customs when you reach home. LOST/STOLEN PROPERTY—Call the Tanglin Police Divisional Headquarters (21 Kampong Java Rd., 6391‑0000) to report your loss. Replace your plastic by calling your credit card company: see numbers to note below.

Navigating the City

Getting around in Singapore is a breeze. If you plan to travel via public transport a lot, buy a $12 EZ‑Link card with an encoded $7 value (available from all MRT train stations), which allows cashless payment on all public buses and trains. BUSES—Buses travel to almost every part of the island and fares start from 73 cents. For information on bus routes and related enquiries, call the TransitLink Hotline at 1800‑225‑5663 or log on to www.sbstransit.com.sg.

TAXIS—There are five major taxi companies in the city: Comfort and CityCab, 6552‑1111; Premier Taxis, 6363‑6888; SMRT Taxis, 6555‑8888; and TransCab, 6555-3333. Fares start from $3. Charges are higher for advance bookings. Alternatively, call 6‑Dial‑Cab, 6342‑5222. Your call will be routed to the first company with an available taxi. Or simply text “Book<space>six-digit postal code” to 71222 (Comfort) or “Book<space>six-digit postal code<space>#pickup point“ to 75588 (SMRT Taxis).

Changi Airport

Shop Tax Free

As a visitor to Singapore, you can get a refund of the seven percent Goods & Services Tax (GST) TAX FREE you pay on purchases that you are taking home.

There are two service providers in Singapore processing GST refunds, Premier Tax Free and Global Blue. Shop where you see the signs pictured above and pay using your credit card that will be your Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS) token or cash upon which you’ll be given an eTRS ticket. Tickets can be issued for purchases of $100 and above. When leaving Singapore, simply head to the eTRS self-help kiosk and retrieve your refunds using your eTRS tickets.

Numbers to note

MASS RAPID TRANSIT (MRT)— Singapore’s world‑class train system. Trains are punctual, air‑conditioned and comfortable, and run from about 6am to midnight. Single trip tickets (from 73¢ with EZ‑Link card to $1.10 cash fare) can be purchased from vending machines at all MRT stations. For information on MRT routes and related enquiries call SMRT at 1800‑336‑8900 or log on to www.smrt.com.sg.

NAVIGATE

CREDIT CARDS American Express...............6880‑1111 Diners Card....................... 6416‑0800 JCB.......................................6734‑0096 MasterCard................... 800‑110‑0113 VISA............................. 800‑448‑1250 EMERGENCY Police.....................................................999 Ambulance/Fire Brigade................ 995 Flight Information.......... 1800‑542‑4422 24‑hour Touristline.....1800‑736‑2000 MEDICAL SERVICES Raffles Hospital.........................6311‑1111 (585 North Bridge Rd.) Singapore General Hospital......6222-3322 (Outram Rd.)

The ultramodern Changi Airport is well known for making travel breezy for passengers arriving, departing and in transit—but it’s also worth scheduling some extra time to enjoy the facilities here. On top of the usual dining and retail options, there are also five gardens (including a butterfly garden), a swimming pool complete with jacuzzi, lounges and 24-hour movie theaters.

GETTING TO & FROM THE AIRPORT BUS—SBS Bus 36 plies between Changi Airport and Orchard Road. Buses depart every 10 minutes and cost $1.79 (one-way). TAXI—Taxis will take you to the city in about 30 minutes and cost between $20-26. A $3 airport surcharge applies at all times. MRT—The journey takes about half an hour and a single trip costs $2. The first train departs City Hall Mon‑Sat at 6:01am; Sun and public holidays at 6:29am.

WHAT’S NEW The airport is by no means immune to festive fever. This year’s set-up promises to evoke a winter wonderland, complete with displays inspired by German castles, Swiss chalets, Japanese cottages and more. Look out for a gigantic, interactive castle in Terminal 3, where Disney shows will take place.

2014 DECEMBER

78 YEARS,

Look out for WHERE Magazine in

68 CITIES

e FestiV Fun ting, th of feasion! le mon a who and celebrat partying 33 NEW

THINGS

GAP IN SIN & DO TO SEE

TH S MON ORE THI

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

Take home the perfect souvenir.

The 2014 edition of our luxury coffeetable publication

, is available for purchase at $20.* Contact us at

6323-2512 or email where@asia-city.com.sg if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to purchase a copy.

* Additional delivery charges may apply outside of Singapore

The fourth edition of the , the premier luxury guide for discerning travelers, will be published in March 2015. Take advantage of early-booking discount rates and showcase your brand to the world. A very limited number of premium positions are available. Email sales@asia-city.com.sg to find out more.

20 Things We Love about Singapore 1

1 Looking back at Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transformation at Singapura: 700 Years. p. 40

7 Getting our local film fix at the Singapore International Film Festival. p. 8

Snapping up bold prints and smartly tailored outfits at Kenzo. p. 44

Being a part of tropical Christmas celebrations at Orchard Road . p. 10

3 Slurping oysters and sipping on bubbly at Southbridge . p. 52 4 Singing along to Abbaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s catchy tunes at Mamma Mia . p. 8 5 Sampling wacky locallyinspired cocktails at Hopscotch . p. 51

Cheering on tennis superstars at the International Premier Tennis League . p. 8 6

Opting for an unconventional spa treatment at Spa Detour. p. 46 9

Chilling out at foodie enclave Chijmes. p. 48 10

Laying our hands on stylish threads from Zalora . p. 45 11

Watching dance masters at M1 Contact Contemporary Dance Festival. p. 8 12

14 Going on a wild magical adventure at Mystica . p. 39 15 Digging into a dizzying array of food options at Makan@Jen . p. 25 16 Tapping into our inner child at the Tintin Shop Singapore . p. 30 17 Guzzling festive ales at RedDot Brewhouse . p. 38 18 Partying till the sun comes up at ZoukOut . p. 9 19 Clinking glasses on the river at Float @ The Bay. p. 38 20 Tucking into authentic local dishes at Tiong Bahru Club. p. 50

13 Getting inspired at ArtScience Museum . p. 42

d ecember 2014 I WHERE SINGAPORE

where My City Lorenzo Rudolf

my pe rfect day

Founder and director of Art Stage Singapore (Jan 22-25. Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8868, S(018956), www.artstagesingapore.com. MRT: Bayfront). an intelligent use of a historical space. Other must-visit art spaces are Artspace@Helutrans (Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Rd., 6225-5448, S(089065), www. helutrans.com), Singapore Art Museum (71 Bras Basah Rd., 6589-9580, S(189555), www. singaporeartmuseum.com. MRT: Bras Basah), The Substation (45 Armenian St., S(179936), www.substation.org. MRT: City Hall) and Art Plural Gallery (38 Armenian St., 6636-8360, S(179942), www.artpluralgallery. com. MRT: City Hall). What makes Singapore’s culture and arts scene so unique? Singapore is the only multicultural place in entire Asia, and so is its arts scene. In nowhere else you have an art scene with artists with different backgrounds, coming from different countries to create dialog and cooperate. That’s really unique in Asia. On top of that, the art world in Singapore is very fastgrowing. When we started our first event in 2011, we had to organize our own side events ourselves. Today, we have an entire art week with a hundred satellite events. I think this is why more and more people come to Singapore and see it as an arts destination. Where do you like to go to enjoy art here? I love Gillman Barracks (9 Lock Rd., S(108937), www. gillmanbarracks.com. MRT: Labrador Park) because it is a unique gathering of top galleries presenting quality art, and is also

art plural gallery

Why do you like living in Singapore? It’s a mix of tradition and the future. My wife and I live in a shophouse, and I love living in an historic environment which still has the flavor of the past. At the same time, I like the modern architecture and urban innovation here. For example, Marina Bay is amazing—there is no other place in the world where they have turned a huge saltwater bay into a freshwater one that is not only an attraction but also has a function. It really shows how this city is forward-thinking.

58 WHERE S I N G A P O R E I d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4

9am Get breakfast.

I usually go to Tiong Bahru Bakery (56 Eng Hoon St., 6220-3430, S(160056), www.tiongbahrubakery.com. MRT: Tiong Bahru) for a fresh croissant and a double shot macchiato, as well as a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

tiong baru bakery

12pm Lunch around Club Street.

There’s a great variety of restaurants, from Italian to French to Japanese. My favorites are Casa Tartufo (33 Erskine Rd., 6836-4647, S(069333), www.casatartufo. com. MRT: Telok Ayer) and PS. Café (45 Ann Siang Rd., 9797-0648, S(069719), www. pscafe.com. MRT Telok Ayer). 3pm Back to work.

Preparing for a major fair like Art Stage is a year-long affair. In the afternoons I typically have business meetings in the office with my tenth Nespresso of the day. 6pm Dinner and drinks.

I’d wind down with drinks and a nice view at Lantern on the rooftop of The Fullerton Bay Hotel (1 Fullerton Rd., 6333-8388, S(049178), www.fullertonbayhotel.com. MRT: Raffles Place) before dinner with my wife and our good friends.

er,

Where to find

where Singapore

*updated December, 2014

137 Telok Ayer Building Ambassador Transit Lounge T2 & T3 American Embassy Singapore Australian High Commission British High Commission Comfort Del Gro Mercedes Taxis CS Mobility JetQuay Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore ONE°15 Marina Club Premier Taxis Silvercabs Raffles City Convention Centre Singapore Tourism Board The American Club The British Club ATTRACTIONS ArtScience Museum @ Marina Bay Sands Asian Civilisations Museum Chinatown Visitor Centre Esplanade Flight Experience Gardens by the Bay (Malay Centre ticketing, information counter) iFly Megazip Mount Faber Ticketing Counter National Museum of Singapore Red Dot Design Museum Peranakan Museum Singapore Art Museum Singapore Botanic Gardens Singapore Flyer Information Counter Singapore Repertory Theatre The Arts House @ Old Parliament Lane The Substation Wave House Sentosa BARS & RESTAURANTS Bazin Brewerkz Boomerang Bistro & Bar Cafe Ritazza @ Airport T1 Carnivore @ MBS Catalunya Charlie’s Tapas Grill & Bar Dean & Deluca eM By The River Enoteca L’Operetta Harry’s @ Boat Quay Harry’s @ Pier Robertson Hog’s Breath @ Chijmes Jibiru Kith Cafe @ Sentosa Cove

London Mad For Garlic Madam Patisserie Panopolis @ Airport T3 Paulaner Bräuhaus Punjab Grill RedDot Brewhouse @ Boat Quay Ricciotti @ The Riverwalk Smoothie King @ MBFC Smoothie King @ Centrepoint Smoothie King @ Somerset 313 Smoothie King @ Suntec Sprmrkt Stuttgart Blackforest Boutique S-Cafe The Soup Spoon @ Raffles City Shopping Centre Tanjong Beach Club Taphouse by Brewerkz The Chamber The Jewel Box The Muffinry Veganburg Wine Connection Cheese Bar Wings Bar Working Title HOTELS Amara Sanctuary Amara Singapore Capella Singapore Carlton Hotel Changi Village Hotel Concorde Hotel Conrad Centennial Crockfords Tower Crowne Plaza Changi Airport Days Hotel Dorsett Singapore Elizabeth Hotel Fairmont Singapore Festive Hotel Four Seasons Hotel Furama Riverfront Gallery Hotel Goodwood Park Hotel Grand Copthorne Waterfront Grand Hyatt Grand Mercure Roxy Singapore Grand Park City Hall Grand Park Orchard Hard Rock Hotel Singapore Hilton International Holiday Inn Atrium Singapore Holiday Inn Orchard City Centre

Hotel 1929 Hotel Fort Canning Hotel Michael Hotel Re! @ Pearl’s Hill Hotel Rendezvous Hotel Royal at Queens InterContinental Singapore Kam Leng Hotel Klapsons The Boutique Hotel Link Hotel Singapore M Hotel Mandarin Oriental Marina Bay Sands Marina Mandarin Moon Hotel New Majestic Hotel Nostalgia Hotel Novotel ClarkeQuay One Farrer Hotel & Spa Orchard Hotel Orchard Parade Hotel Pan Pacific Marina Pan Pacific Orchard Park Avenue Rochester Park Hotel Clarke Quay Park Regis Singapore PARKROYAL on Beach Road PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road PARKROYAL on Pickering Quincy Hotel Raffles Hotel Singapore Ramada Hotel Royal Plaza on Scotts Shangri-La Singapore Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Sheraton Towers Siloso Beach Resort Singapore Marriott Sofitel So Singapore Studio M Hotel Swissôtel Merchant Court Swissôtel The Stamford The Club The Daulat Hotel The Duxton The Fullerton Bay Hotel The Fullerton Hotel Singapore The Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa The Regent Singapore The Ritz Carlton, Millenia Singapore The Scarlet The Seacare hotel The Sentosa Resort & Spa

The St. Regis The Sultan The Westin Singapore Traders Hotel V Hotel Lavender Village Hotel Albert Court Village Hotel Katong Wanderlust Wangz Hotel York Hotel MALL CONCIERGE COUNTERS Central Centrepoint City Square Mall Forum The Shopping Mall ION Orchard Millenia Walk Somerset @ 313 Suntec @ SICC Tanglin Mall SERVICED APARTMENTS Ascott Raffles Place Singapore Central Square Village Residences Citadines Singapore Mount Sophia Far East Plaza Residences Fraser Place Fraser Place @ Fusionopolis Fraser Residence Orchard Fraser Suites Lanson Place Winsland Le Grove Serviced Apartments Orchard Parksuites Residences Orchard Scotts Residences Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Park Avenue Suites PARKROYAL Serviced Suites Singapore Regency House Residences Riverside Village Residences Shangri-La Apartments Somerset Liang Court Serviced Apartments St. Regis Residences Treetops Executive Residences SPA & RETAIL CELUVA Dejewel Galleria Estheva Spa Icon Gallery Marina Bay Sands Hotel Gift Shop @ Tower 2 Lobby

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13/11/14

12:12 pm

World’s Largest Glass Greenhouse Flower Dome

“Avatar in real life: Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay”

“Top 10 Indoor Gardens of the World"

Guinness World Records 2015

— The Sydney Morning Herald

— FoxNews.com

Experience the brilliance of C

Image is for illustration only.

CMY

Celebrate Yuletide in the Flower Dome from now till 6 January 2015 Come chill in a wintry wonderland with temperatures to match, as a glistening tower gleams in a realm of dreams. Watch extraordinary Luminarie light sculptures sparkle and admire a charming little town adorned with exquisite Christmas trees and poinsettias.

The festivities continue at the Supertree Grove, where further shimmery surprises await. Be serenaded by the angelic voices of carollers. Indulge in unique dining experiences at the Spiegeltent, a traditional Dutch mirror tent. Then shop till you shine at a European-style Festive Market. Visit http://bit.ly/gardensyuletide for details.

Flower Dome The Flower Dome replicates the cool and dry Mediterranean climate featuring 9 different gardens from 5 continents.

@gardensbythebay 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

Cloud Forest

OCBC Skyway & the Supertrees

Explore the highlands amidst orchids, pitcher plants and ferns from the cool-moist Tropical Montane region, featuring one of the world's tallest indoor waterfalls at 35 metres as well as 7 discovery zones.

Suspended 22 metres above ground, between the vertical gardens of our Supertrees, the OCBC Skyway comes alive nightly with the Garden Rhapsody - a free light and sound show - at 7:45pm and 8:45pm daily.