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Singapore’s iconic Singapore Botanic Gardens is commemorating a decade as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a special, free community exhibition set to conclude its run early next year. Titled Planting Memories: Singapore Botanic Gardens Through the Eyes of the Community, the exhibit offers a unique perspective on the storied history of the tropical attraction, illustrating the symbiotic relationship between plant life and Singaporean citizens. Visitors have until January 4, 2026, to immerse themselves in this retrospective celebrating the Gardens’ cultural and conservational significance.

Celebrating a Decade of World Heritage Status

The milestone of securing UNESCO status ten years ago cemented the Gardens’ place not just as a national treasure but as a globally recognized bastion of tropical botany. Marking this achievement, the Planting Memories exhibition delves beyond typical historical displays, presenting a narrative woven from the personal experiences and collective memory of the public. It serves as an intimate look at how the Gardens have fostered a sense of community and contributed to the nation’s identity over many decades.

Located primarily within the Gardens’ CDL Green Gallery and People’s Gallery spaces, the exhibition synthesizes artwork, video content, and oral histories to reveal the crucial conservation initiatives and everyday operations behind the scenes. Guests gain insight into the Gardens’ growth trajectory and its vital role in preserving horticultural heritage.

Interactive Displays Connect People and Nature

The exhibition experience is highly interactive, designed to engage visitors through multiple sensory points. One notable extension is the Gathering Roots installation, an outdoor, multi-sensory art piece positioned at the CDL Green Gallery. This display encourages listening and careful observation, inviting visitors to interact thoughtfully with the sculptural floral arrangements.

Inside, technology meets history in displays that feature personal recollections shared by community members from different eras. These stories highlight the deeply personal connections Singaporeans hold with the site. Further engagement points include:

• Pledge Station: Visitors can share their aspirations and commitments for the future preservation and development of the beloved Gardens.
• Interactive Tembusu Game: A fun, touchscreen game challenges participants to successfully cultivate a virtual Tembusu tree, the majestic species that famously graces the Singapore five-dollar note.

Maximize Your Visit to the Gardens

To ensure you don’t miss this limited-time showcase, Planting Memories is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the CDL Green Gallery and People’s Gallery, near the Gardens’ gates. Note the exception for closure on December 20, 2025.

While commemorating the decade of World Heritage status, the Gardens are also hosting other complementary attractions. Visitors should take the opportunity to visit the Singapore Herbarium, also situated within the grounds. The Herbarium is currently undertaking a groundbreaking public initiative: the live digitization of its vast, 150-year-old collection of preserved plant specimens. This pioneering showcase offers a transparent look into the meticulous work required to catalog and preserve biodiversity knowledge for future generations.

The Planting Memories exhibition offers a timely opportunity to reflect on Singapore’s natural heritage and the shared responsibility of protecting this vital green lung. As the final closing date approaches, it stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between the community and one of the world’s most beautiful tropical botanic institutions.

The internationally renowned musical phenomenon, Ministry of Sound Classical, is set to redefine the live music experience in Singapore this January, merging the exhilarating pulse of electronic dance music (EDM) with the grandeur of a live symphony orchestra. Scheduled for Friday, January 23, 2026, at the serene outdoors of Fort Canning Green, this event promises an unprecedented musical journey featuring orchestral variations of iconic club anthems.

Reimagining the Rave: A Symphonic Take on Electronic Hits

Unlike traditional EDM events dominated by DJ sets and heavy bass drops, Ministry of Sound Classical presents a meticulously crafted concert experience where classic dance tracks are performed by a full orchestra, backed by vocalists and DJs. This sophisticated production elevates the familiar energy of the nightclub scene into a dynamic, cross-genre performance space.

The January 2026 show will feature Singapore’s esteemed Metropolitan Festival Orchestra, collaborating with acclaimed international vocalists and DJs. Together, they will breathe new life into foundational electronic tracks, transforming dancefloor favorites into sweeping symphonic movements.

Anticipated setlist highlights underscore the breadth of the genre spanning the 1990s and 2000s, including Darude’s intense “Sandstorm,” Dario G’s euphoric “Sunchyme,” Faithless’s atmospheric “Insomnia,” and Fatboy Slim’s seminal “Right Here, Right Now.” These orchestral rearrangements tap into the melodic richness of the original compositions, offering both nostalgia for long-time club-goers and a fresh appreciation for newcomers.

Event Logistics and Ticket Information

The outdoor spectacle will take place at Fort Canning Green, leveraging its natural amphitheater setting to create a “chill outdoor jam” atmosphere that seamlessly transitions into a dance venue. Gates are slated to open at 6 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, with the main performance scheduled to commence at 8 p.m. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early to secure optimal viewing locations on the lawn.

Ticket tiers cater to various levels of access and amenity:

• General Admission: S$130
• Priority Tickets: S$190 (Includes dedicated entry lanes)
• VIP Tickets: S$310 (Offers premium viewing and exclusive amenities)

Tickets and further details regarding the event can be secured through official channels via Ticketek Singapore.

The Growing Trend of Orchestral Dance Music

The fusion of classical instrumentation and contemporary dance music reflects a burgeoning global trend, moving away from rigid genre boundaries. This format appeals to a diverse audience, bridging the gap between classical music enthusiasts seeking modern accessibility and dance music aficionados interested in sophisticated musical arrangements.

For Singapore’s Metropolitan Festival Orchestra, participation in Ministry of Sound Classical offers an opportunity to showcase their versatility and commitment to innovative programming, proving that orchestral music remains a vital, adaptable art form capable of resonating with popular culture. The concert is more than just a performance; it is a vibrant celebration of dance, music, and cross-cultural collaboration, promising a spectacular and unforgettable evening under the stars.

Singapore’s Sentosa Island is cementing its status as a premier luxury travel destination, evidenced by both the buzz surrounding exclusive new resorts and the sustained international recognition of established mainstays, notably Capella Singapore, which recently earned a coveted spot on Condé Nast Traveller’s prestigious Gold List 2026. This distinction, announced just after the property secured its first Michelin Key, highlights a competitive, high-end hospitality scene where historical elegance meets personalized modernity.

Capella Singapore Earns Global Gold List Honors

While attention has recently focused on highly anticipated luxury properties opening on Sentosa, such as the all-villa Raffles Sentosa Singapore (set for 2025) and the recently debuted, all-suite The Laurus, existing icons are demonstrating remarkable resilience and continued excellence. Capella Singapore, housed within meticulously restored former wartime barracks and opened in 2009, was featured in the 2026 Gold List, underscoring its position among the world’s elite hotels and resorts.

The accolade, awarded by Condé Nast Traveller, places the resort among 17 exceptional properties recognized across Asia. The magazine specifically lauded Capella Singapore as a “hilltop haven,” noting its enduring “tropical magnetism” since its inception. Key elements of its appeal include its striking, grand colonial architecture seamlessly integrating modern design elements, its lush, greenery-rich landscaping, and the sophisticated comfort of its suites and villas.

Elevated Service Defines the Guest Experience

A crucial factor contributing to this international recognition is the resort’s unparalleled commitment to service. In late 2024, the property completed a significant enhancement of its manors, which are autonomous stand-alone buildings, introducing bespoke furniture, curated art collections, and an elevated level of personalized attention.

The service is delivered by dedicated staff known as Capella Culturists. These hosts manage every aspect of the guest experience, offering curated activities ranging from serene pool picnics and informative heritage tours focused on the site’s history, to engaging culinary masterclasses and even traditional mahjong sessions. This exceptional, personalized care was specifically cited in the Condé Nast Traveller Gold List feature.

A Benchmark for Asian Luxury

Capella Singapore’s inclusion on the Gold List reaffirms that pedigree and continuous refinement are essential in the fiercely competitive Asian luxury market. This distinguished group also features properties that set regional standards for hospitality, including Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape in Bali; Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô in Vietnam; The Ritz-Carlton in Kyoto, Japan; and Chiva-Som in Hua Hin, Thailand.

Key Takeaways for Discerning Travelers:

• Heritage Meets Modernity: Capella Singapore exemplifies how historical structures can be transformed into contemporary luxury resorts without losing their essential character.
• The Power of Personalization: The success of the Capella Culturists model showcases the growing demand for highly personalized, experiences-led hospitality rather than standard luxury amenities alone.
• Sustained Excellence: Travelers looking for world-class accommodations should note that established resorts investing in continuous updates can often outperform newer competitors, offering proven service and deep-rooted character.

Sentosa’s consistent success in gaining these global luxury travel distinctions signifies a period of robust development and refined quality control, ensuring the island remains a top-tier choice for sophisticated global travelers.

The often-overlooked world of insects takes center stage in a stunning new exhibition at ArtScience Museum in Singapore, inviting visitors to reconsider these tiny creatures often dismissed as pests. Beginning January 17, 2026, Insects: Microsculptures Magnified showcases breathtaking, supersized macro-photographs by Levon Biss, revealing the intricate beauty and complex structures of the insect kingdom in jaw-dropping detail.

Unveiling the Insect’s Inner Architecture

The exhibition centers on Biss’s celebrated photographic series, which transforms minuscule insect specimens into monumental portraits. Each image focuses intensely on the unique “microsculptures” of features invisible to the naked eye—from the kaleidoscopic colors of protective armor and shimmery scales to the surprising textures of fuzzy legs and sharp pincers. By dramatically enlarging the subjects, Biss elevates these biological components to the level of high art, highlighting the extraordinary engineering present in nature.

The photographs originated from a 2016 showing at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, but the Singapore presentation offers unique local enhancements. The ArtScience Museum collaboration integrates contributions from Singaporean ecological institutions, creating a richer, regionally relevant experience.

Local Collaborations and Ecological Insights

The exhibition incorporates educational and specimen materials from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, NTU’s Asian School of the Environment, and Blackcrow Taxidermy & Art. Visitors gain the opportunity not only to admire the artistry but also to peer into microscopes at magnified insect specimens, further bridging the gap between art and science.

Furthermore, the display provides crucial context regarding Singapore’s own biodiversity research. Touchscreen exhibits detail current innovative developments undertaken by local ecological institutions, helping visitors understand the vital role insects play in the environment and how local scientists are working to protect them. This local lens emphasizes that ecology is a deeply relevant topic, integrating global art with regional scholarship.

Interactive Learning for All Ages

“Insects: Microsculptures Magnified” provides a highly interactive experience suitable for families, students, and curious adults. The educational components are designed to deepen appreciation for entomology without requiring prior expertise.

Interactive features of the exhibition include:

• Behind-the-Scenes Film: A short documentary exploring Levon Biss’s specialized macro-photography techniques, illuminating the technical challenges of capturing such extreme detail.
• Educational Displays: Touchscreen stations offering facts, context, and detailed explanations of the specimens and their features.
• Microscope Stations: Opportunities to view actual insect specimens under high magnification.

While visitors may not exit as professional entomologists, the goal is to foster a tangible appreciation for biodiversity and the often-overlooked beauty of these “itty bitty creatures.”

The exhibition runs at the ArtScience Museum from January 17 to April 19, 2026. This limited-time showing offers an accessible and engaging way for the public to connect with the science and aesthetics of the natural world. Tickets for local adults start at $8. Timed entry tickets are highly recommended and can be reserved online. This is an unparalleled opportunity to see the insect world not as pests or background noise, but as masterpieces of biological design.

A captivating fusion of French culinary technique and Japanese sensibility is redefining fine dining in Singapore, housed within the historically significant House of Tan Yeok Nee. Loca Niru, the new 36-seat restaurant, overcomes initial skepticism by delivering a thoughtfully nuanced menu by Chef Shusuke Kubota that uniquely integrates bold Southeast Asian ingredients into classic formats, offering one of the year’s most compelling dining experiences inside the newly accessible 140-year-old Teochew mansion at 101 Penang Road.

The restaurant’s location itself is noteworthy. The House of Tan Yeok Nee represents the last of the “Four Grand Mansions” of traditional Teochew architecture, finally opening its doors to the public. While some might have anticipated a Teochew fine-dining concept to honor the history, Chef Kubota’s vision at Loca Niru draws strength from contrast, setting an immediate tone of refined simplicity and deep contemplation rooted in the Japanese philosophy of Kotan.

Design and Atmosphere Embrace Subtle Elegance

The interior seamlessly marries the mansion’s preserved heritage with minimalist Japanese aesthetics. Visitors ascend to the dining room, immediately noticing the original wooden trusses and decorative Teochew carvings visible through the windows. This historical backdrop is softened by elements of wabi sabi, focusing attention inward toward the intimate, open kitchen. The cozy setting, offering both group tables and private spaces, ensures the culinary presentation remains the central focus.

The experience at Loca Niru is meticulous, translating into premium pricing that places it alongside Singapore’s most ambitious dining establishments. The cost reflects the reliance on premium Japanese produce, labor-intensive preparation, and intricate presentation.

Culinary Integration: Southeast Asian Flair Meets European Precision

The eight-course tasting menu, priced at $298, immediately signals Chef Kubota’s innovative approach. The opening hassun course, traditionally a collection of small bites, sets the stage. Highlights include Hokkaido sweet prawn tartare brightened by tosazu jelly and Malaysian pomelo, and frog leg—a nod to both French and local cuisine—transformed into a roulade wrapped in crisp kadaif with a depth-adding curry leaf aioli.

Kubota’s strength lies in his reimagining of classic luxury ingredients through a regional lens. Rich chutoro is expertly balanced with a dressing of roselle and calamansi, serving as a bright, local interpretation of ponzu. A standout is the braised abalone, paired with a vegetable-stock chawanmushi and crowned with seasonal mushrooms simmered in an intensely savory consommé.

The apex of the meal is the isaki, or Japanese grunt fish, pan-seared to achieve shatteringly crisp skin and succulent flesh. It is presented with a Nyonya-inspired beurre blanc, a sauce that previously earned Chef Kubota a prestigious culinary accolade. Crucially, the accompanying bun, kneaded with buah keluak, is provided specifically for diners to savor every drop of the expertly crafted sauce.

Even the desserts, created without a dedicated pastry chef, prove memorable. The concluding Malaysian chocolate dessert, layered evocatively with gula melaka sabayon, nutmeg, and roselle, offers a rich and thematic finale.

Thoughtful Pairings Elevate the Experience

Loca Niru offers well-considered beverage pairing options, including both a sake pairing ($148) and a wine pairing ($188). The selections are calibrated to support, rather than overshadow, the complex flavors of the food. The balance-focused approach is exemplified by choices like a clean, mineral-driven junmai ginjo from Nagano, mirroring the menu’s understated refinement.

Loca Niru operates Tuesday through Saturday, with dinner service from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. (last seating at 8 p.m.). This new opening offers a distinctive perspective on high-end dining, demonstrating that the thoughtful inclusion of Southeast Asian influences can elevate classical French-Japanese methods, making it a pivotal addition to Singapore’s culinary landscape.

Starting January 17, 2026, the ArtScience Museum in Singapore offers visitors a magnified look into the intricate world of insects with the exhibition, Insects: Microsculptures Magnified. Featuring supersized photographic prints by acclaimed macro photographer Levon Biss, the show elevates often-overlooked small creatures into objects of dazzling complexity, revealing the hidden beauty and astonishing detail of their minuscule anatomy. This sensory journey, running through April 19, 2026, aims to foster greater appreciation for these vital, yet frequently dismissed, life forms by presenting their structure on a monumental scale.

Unveiling the Hidden Wonders of Microsculpture

Insects, ranging from iridescent beetles to fuzzy-legged spiders, possess physical features—sometimes mistaken for pests—that are largely invisible to the naked human eye. Levon Biss’s photographic technique captures what are described as “microsculptures,” documenting complex textures, shimmering protective exoskeletons, razor-sharp pincers, and vibrant scales with unprecedented clarity.

Biss’s work first captivated audiences at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History in 2016. The Singapore iteration of the exhibition expands upon this foundation, incorporating unique contextual materials drawn from local expertise. Collaborations include contributions from Singapore’s esteemed Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, NTU’s Asian School of the Environment, and Blackcrow Taxidermy & Art. This integration highlights the importance of regional research and biodiversity conservation efforts.

Beyond the Lens: Interactive and Local Insights

The exhibition is designed to be highly engaging for visitors of all ages, transforming the passive viewing of photographs into an active educational experience. Beyond the striking prints, attendees can peer into actual microscopes to observe preserved insect specimens in stunning magnification, offering a tangible connection to the art.

Moreover, the installation incorporates various interactive elements:

• Behind-the-Scenes Access: A short documentary film provides insight into Levon Biss’s meticulous photographic process and the technical challenges of capturing these miniature subjects.
• Educational Touchscreens: Interactive digital displays offer in-depth information on insect biology, taxonomy, and their ecological roles.
• Research Spotlights: Displays showcase groundbreaking innovative developments currently underway at Singapore’s key ecology-related institutions, underscoring the relevance of entomological study to modern sustainability efforts.

Understanding the complexity of insect life can profoundly shift perspectives. As the exhibition demonstrates, appreciating the artistry in an insect’s protective armor or the patterns on its wings can deepen understanding of biodiversity and ecological balance. Visitors are encouraged to move past common preconceptions of insects as nuisances and recognize them as magnificent components of the natural world.

The ArtScience Museum is a key venue for bringing science and art into dialogue, making it an ideal setting for this exhibition. Tickets for Insects: Microsculptures Magnified start from $8 for local adults, offering an accessible opportunity for residents and tourists alike to experience this fascinating intersection of nature, photography, and science. Timed entry tickets can be reserved online, ensuring a seamless viewing experience between January 17 and April 19, 2026. This spring viewing is poised to spark a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary beauty existing just beneath our feet.

A bold new dining establishment, Loca Niru, has defied initial skepticism by blending classical French technique and meticulous Japanese sensibility with dynamic Southeast Asian ingredients, marking the first time the historic House of Tan Yeok Nee has opened its doors to the public. Located in the last remaining structure of Singapore’s “Four Grand Mansions” of Teochew architecture, the fine-dining concept, spearheaded by Chef Shusuke Kubota, reinterprets regional flavors through an eight-course tasting menu, positioning itself as one of the city-state’s most compelling culinary debuts this year.

Historic Setting Meets Wabi-Sabi Design

The restaurant’s atmosphere immediately immerses guests in the Japanese philosophy of Kotan, emphasizing quiet simplicity and refined contemplation. This aesthetic complements the 140-year-old mansion’s preserved architecture, where original wooden trusses and striking Teochew carvings—including decorative mosaics made from porcelain bowls visible through the large windows—provide a dramatic backdrop. Offering an intimate experience, the 36-seat main dining room focuses attention on the open kitchen, while private dining areas are strategically tucked away. The design masterfully balances historical reverence with a distinct, minimalist wabi-sabi charm.

Southeast Asian Flavors Drive Culinary Innovation

Chef Kubota’s distinctive approach moves beyond conventional French-Japanese fusion by actively incorporating local and regional components, resulting in a menu that feels genuinely novel. The dining experience begins with a compelling eight-course tasting menu priced at \$298.

The initial hassun course successfully sets the tone, demonstrating the innovative integration of flavors. A Hokkaido sweet prawn tartare, for example, is uplifted by tosazu jelly and Malaysian pomelo. Later courses continue this trajectory: a frog leg roulade, a nod to both French tradition and local preferences, is wrapped in crisp kadaif and served alongside a depth-adding curry leaf aioli.

A standout course is the chutoro, its richness expertly balanced by an intense smoked tofu cream and a roselle–calamansi dressing, offering a regional twist on traditional ponzu. The braised abalone, nestled in a vegetable-stock chawanmushi and topped with seasonal mushrooms simmered in a savory consommé, also impressed.

The inventive use of regional ingredients reaches a pinnacle with the seared Japanese grunt fish (isaki). The fish, celebrated for its shatteringly crisp skin and lush flesh, is paired with a Nyonya-inspired beurre blanc—a previous award-winner for Chef Kubota. A bun kneaded with the intensely flavored local ingredient buah keluak is served specifically for soaking up the remaining sauce, providing a distinctly Singaporean touch.

While the menu is largely faultless in execution, the grilled A5 wagyu, though undeniably delicious with a burnt onion jus and sugarcane smoke, offered one of the few familiar combinations, prompting a desire for even greater Southeast Asian influence, consistent with the rest of the menu’s adventurous spirit.

Thoughtful Beverage Pairings and Refreshing Desserts

Loca Niru’s beverage program supports, rather than overshadows, the complex dishes, offering highly curated options. Patrons can choose between a sake pairing (\$148) or a wine pairing (\$188). Highlights like a mineral-driven junmai ginjo from Nagano perfectly mirror the clean, precise approach of the cuisine.

Desserts, developed without a dedicated pastry chef, prove surprisingly refined. The closing dish, a memorable Malaysian chocolate creation layered with gula melaka sabayon, nutmeg, and roselle, provides a fittingly aromatic and refreshing conclusion.

For fine-dining aficionados, Loca Niru, located at 101 Penang Road, represents a significant and promising addition to Singapore’s culinary landscape. What guests pay for is a combination of premium Japanese produce, meticulous cooking techniques, and, most notably, a thoughtful and compelling integration of Southeast Asian flavors within a truly unique historical setting.

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Address: House of Tan Yeok Nee, 101 Penang Road #02-01
Hours: Tue–Sat 6pm–11pm (last seating 8pm)
Cost Expectation: Above \$300 per person with beverages, positioning it among Singapore’s most ambitious new restaurants.

Singapore proved its dynamism and flair throughout 2025, cementing its status as a premier global lifestyle hub blending high-octane entertainment with serene natural retreats. The year delivered an eclectic mix of events, new destination openings, and unforgettable cultural moments—from global celebrity appearances and sold-out concerts to the burgeoning popularity of community-focused wellness spots and pioneering sports venues—all contributing to the city’s vibrant narrative and captivating residents and visitors alike.

Experiencing the City’s Hidden Gems and Star Power

The past year was defined by unique contrasts, showcasing Singapore’s ability to cater to diverse interests. While the city celebrated a major influx of A-list talent, it simultaneously nurtured intimate local experiences focused on community and self-care.

One of the most talked-about debuts was Nowhere Baths at Dempsey Hill, joining a growing trend of cold plunge and thermal therapy spots in Singapore, including Ice Faction and The Ice Bath Club. This gender-neutral thermal bathhouse stands out for its calming, organic aesthetic, prioritizing a dreamlike state of relaxation. Featuring warm Epsom salt baths, saunas, and cold plunges, the venue encourages present-moment awareness, leading some to interpret its name phonetically as “Now Here.” The location also provides tailored sessions, such as “Hush Hours” and yoga sound healing, offering a much-needed respite from urban life.

“We went on a rainy Sunday and it was just the perfect weather for a hot soak in the mineral pools,” noted Cheryl Sekkappan, Editor for Singapore and Asia. “The beautiful windows overlooking a small patch of forest really added to the daydream vibe.”

Global Events and Artistic Excellence

Singapore cemented its place on the international entertainment calendar by hosting massive events. November’s Wicked: For Good Asia-Pacific premiere at Universal Studios Singapore drew major Hollywood stars, including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, and Michelle Yeoh. The fan event was amplified by Sentosa’s spectacular temporary transformation into the Land of Oz, which included replications of iconic sets, drawing fans into the fantasy world.

Separately, global pop superstar Lady Gaga brought her stadium tour to Singapore in May for four electrifying nights, drawing legions of “Little Monsters” from across Southeast Asia to the National Stadium. Fans showcased their commitment in elaborate costumes, matching the artist’s intense choreography and powerhouse vocals. As Commercial Director Chloe Lee noted, “She is much more than just a singer; she’s a full-on performer and show-maker.”

On the theatrical front, the iconic musical The Phantom of the Opera captivated audiences at Marina Bay Sands’ Sands Theatre until June 2025. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece delivered all the expected gothic romance and dramatic flair. Senior Food & Drink Writer Adira Chow highlighted the experience: “Ben Forster’s (The Phantom) vocals, the chilling ‘Overture’ in Act I, and—spoiler alert—the dramatic chandelier crash had the audience squealing in glee.”

Driving Community and Active Lifestyles

The year also saw innovative spaces emerge that blend recreation, fitness, and social connection.

TRIFECTA, located opposite 313@Somerset, became a thriving hub for board sports enthusiasts. Addressing Singapore’s tropical climate limitations, the multi-sport facility features a deep wave pool for surfing, a hybrid skatebowl, and a virtual reality snow arena for practicing snowboarding and skiing maneuvers. Regional Content Director Nicole-Marie Ng celebrated the center’s impact: “I started snowboarding from absolute beginner classes, worked my way up to advanced and can finally link my turns!”

Meanwhile, RASA Space in Raffles Place quickly established itself as more than just a nightclub. While hosting top local and international DJs, the venue also cultivated a vibrant community atmosphere through unique events like matcha ‘raves,’ Sunday markets, and fitness sessions, bridging the gap between nightlife and daytime wellness.

Finding Serenity in Nature’s New Pathways

Despite its urban density, Singapore continually integrates new green spaces. The new Mandai Boardwalk offers a tranquil, 3.3-kilometer flat trail skirting Upper Seletar Reservoir and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. This accessible escape provides views of calm, emerald waters and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including long-tailed parakeets and otters. Creative Manager Liqin Lau described the location as incredibly calming. “I would recommend taking an early morning walk here to catch the sunrise,” she advised.

The diverse offerings of 2025 underscore Singapore’s enduring commitment to providing world-class experiences, whether through star-studded spectacles or quiet, community-driven pursuits, ensuring the island city remains perpetually engaging.

The year 2025 cemented Singapore’s reputation as a dynamic lifestyle hub, seamlessly blending elite global events with intimate local experiences, ranging from A-list celebrity encounters and immersive wellness retreats to vibrant community nightlife and serene nature escapes, according to top experiences highlighted by the Time Out Singapore editorial team. The city-state offered a compelling narrative of growth, culture, and surprising urban renewal, reinforcing its appeal as a cosmopolitan destination.

Urban Escapes and Cutting-Edge Wellness Define Local Leisure

The local leisure landscape saw a significant evolution, particularly in the realm of relaxation and social gathering. One notable addition was Nowhere Baths at Dempsey Hill, ushering in a sophisticated, gender-neutral thermal bathhouse experience. Amidst a wave of new cold plunge facilities, Nowhere Baths distinguished itself by offering a calming, jungle-overlooking environment with organic architecture, contrasting the intense shock of ice baths with warm Epsom salt pools and quiet hours.

“We went on a rainy Sunday and it was just the perfect weather for a hot soak in the mineral pools,” noted Cheryl Sekkappan, Editor for Singapore and Asia. “The beautiful windows overlooking a small patch of forest really added to the daydream vibe. I highly recommend going during the Wednesday Hush Hours for a truly peaceful retreat.”

Meanwhile, Rasa Space injected vital energy into Singapore’s nightlife scene. Located in Raffles Place, this venue transcends the label of a traditional club by hosting an eclectic mix of events—from international DJ sets to matcha “raves,” Sunday markets, and fitness classes—fostering a strong sense of community engagement alongside high-quality entertainment.

Global Glamour Lands in the Lion City

Singapore proved its capability to host major international spectacles in 2025. November brought the highly anticipated Asia-Pacific Premiere for the film Wicked: For Good, attracting Hollywood heavyweights including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, and Michelle Yeoh. The event included a dazzling transformation of Sentosa into the Land of Oz, which featured immersive light installations continuing into 2026.

“Bragging rights include being mere inches from Jeff Goldblum, Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande and Michelle Yeoh,” remarked Branded Content Editor Cam Khalid, who appreciated the film’s immersive display across Sentosa.

Adding to the city’s cultural draw, the touring production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical masterpiece, The Phantom of the Opera, captivated audiences at Marina Bay Sands until June. The acclaimed performance, featuring Ben Forster as the Phantom, delivered the expected gothic romance and dramatic staging, highlighted by the show’s iconic chandelier crash.

On the contemporary music front, pop icon Lady Gaga’s electrifying four-night concert residency at the National Stadium in May drew regional crowds known as “Little Monsters.” As her only Southeast Asia stop, the performance highlighted the star’s theatrical prowess and relentless energy.

Adventure and Nature Thrive

For thrill-seekers, Trifecta, situated conveniently opposite 313@Somerset, emerged as the ultimate hub for board sports enthusiasts. The venue offers high-tech facilities for activities otherwise impossible in Singapore’s climate, including the world’s first hybrid skatebowl, a deep wave pool generating endless surfable waves, and a virtual reality-powered snow arena for simulated snowboarding. Regional Content Director Nicole-Marie Ng celebrated reaching an advanced level in snowboarding classes at the facility, preparing her for an upcoming trip to Japan.

The appreciation for tranquil, green spaces also grew. The Mandai Boardwalk was recognized as one of the island’s newest accessible nature escapes. This 3.3-kilometer flat trail skirts the Upper Seletar Reservoir and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, offering serene views and exceptional opportunities for wildlife spotting, including various bird species and occasional macaques.

“Being surrounded by trees and water felt incredibly calming,” said Creative Manager Liqin Lau. She recommended an early morning walk to catch the sunrise and potentially spot otters.

These stand-out moments demonstrate Singapore’s ongoing success in curating a lifestyle that mixes convenience, cultural depth, and unexpected moments of global connection, reinforcing its position as a dynamic city for residents and visitors alike.

Singapore consistently proved its capacity for vibrant surprises in 2025, delivering a dynamic mix of celebrity glamour, groundbreaking recreation, essential wellness retreats, and accessible nature escapes that captivated residents and visitors alike. From major global premieres to innovative community hubs, these handpicked standout moments, according to the Time Out Singapore team, reaffirm the city-state’s status as a premier lifestyle destination.

Finding Inner Peace: Thermal Wellness Takes Center Stage

A rising trend in Singapore’s lifestyle landscape is the embrace of thermal contrast therapy, exemplified by several new openings focusing on ice baths and saunas, including The Ice Bath Club and Ice Faction. However, Nowhere Baths on Dempsey Hill distinguished itself by offering a unique, gender-neutral sanctuary focused purely on tranquility. This dreamy setting features organic architecture, soft lighting, and views of lush greenery, setting it apart from typical recovery-focused spas.

The facility successfully combines the invigorating shock of cold plunges with the restorative calm of warm Epsom salt baths, a sauna, and a steam room. Nowhere Baths also hosts specialized sessions, including women-only and “Hush Hours,” complemented by optional yoga and sound healing, providing a comprehensive escape from urban stressors. “The weather was perfect for a hot soak in the mineral pools, which overlook a small patch of forest,” remarked Cheryl Sekkappan, Editor for Singapore and Asia, highlighting the location’s deeply meditative atmosphere.

Hollywood Arrives: The Wicked: For Good Premiere

November marked an extraordinary influx of A-list talent as Universal Studio Singapore rolled out the yellow carpet for the Asia-Pacific premiere of the anticipated film, Wicked: For Good. The intimate fan event drew Hollywood heavyweights, including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, and Michelle Yeoh.

Adding to the spectacle, Sentosa was magically transformed into the Land of Oz, featuring dazzling light installations and immersive zones, many of which remain accessible into 2026. The premiere not only gave fans access to global stars but cemented Singapore’s position as a critical stop on the global entertainment circuit.

Community and Culture: Defining Singapore’s Social Scene

While the city’s nightlife venues face changing dynamics, RASA Space emerged as a refreshing Raffles Place destination that transcends the traditional club model. Since opening in January, the venue has fostered a strong sense of community, hosting renowned local and international DJs alongside an eclectic mix of day-time events, such as concept markets, dining collaborations, and unconventional fitness activities like clubbell workouts. Its versatility in hosting soulful soundscapes one day and vibrant dance parties the next has made it a weekend playground for many, blending entertainment with authentic connection.

Adrenaline Rush: Mastering Board Sports Indoors

For action sports enthusiasts, Trifecta near 313@Somerset is a genuine game-changer. Given the lack of natural conditions for surfing and snowboarding in the equatorial climate, this multi-sport hub provides unparalleled training opportunities.

Key features include:

• The world’s first hybrid skatebowl.
• A powerful deep wave pool capable of generating endless surfable waves.
• A sophisticated virtual reality-powered snow arena for realistic snowboarding practice.

The inclusion of retail spaces, a café, and a vibrant community calendar ensures Trifecta functions as a premier social and athletic meeting point, allowing Singaporeans to hone skills ahead of overseas trips.

Stage Spectaculars and Rocking Crowds

The year saw Singapore host two major international performances. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s enduring masterpiece, The Phantom of the Opera, took residence at Marina Bay Sands until June 2025, thrilling audiences with its dramatic staging, exceptional vocals, and the iconic gothic romance, proving the enduring power of classic Broadway.

In a dramatically different vein, Lady Gaga brought her colossal Chromatica Ball tour to the National Stadium for four electrifying nights in May. As her sole Southeast Asian stop, the event drew devoted “Little Monsters” from across the region, delivering theatrical choreography, numerous costume changes, and powerhouse vocals, confirming her status as an unparalleled live performer.

Embracing Nature: The Serenity of Mandai Boardwalk

Balancing the urban excitement, nature continues to offer accessible respite. The new Mandai Boardwalk provides a pristine 3.3-kilometer flat trail bordering the Upper Seletar Reservoir and Central Catchment Nature Reserve. This tranquil escape provides breathtaking views of emerald waters and dense forest, offering excellent opportunities for spotting local wildlife, including straw-headed bulbuls and the occasional otter. Taking a walk here early morning to catch the sunrise offers a deeply calming start to the day.

These diverse highlights underscore Singapore’s commitment to continuously evolving its cultural, recreational, and wellness offerings, ensuring that the city-state remains a dynamic and deeply beloved place to live and explore.