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Three-Michelin-starred Odette has subtly yet definitively transformed its dining experience, marking a decade of culinary excellence by debuting a refreshed interior aesthetic and an evolved menu that gracefully fuses French refinement with considered Asian influences. Located within the National Gallery Singapore, Chef Julien Royer’s seminal restaurant unveiled these updates following an extensive review period, transitioning from hushed formality to a more confident, approachable elegance while preserving its core commitment to product-driven, contemporary French cuisine.

A Decade of Evolution Reflected in Design

The physical space at Odette signals a shift from cooler-toned, pastel spring palettes to a warmer, earthier atmosphere dominated by amber and soft beige accents, reflecting a maturing style. The refreshed dining room emphasizes spaciousness and privacy, a deliberate move noted by returning guests. Notably, heavy, double-layered tablecloths have been replaced by shorter, single-layer linens—a seemingly minor detail that underscores a transition away from rigid fine-dining constraints toward a more self-assured, relaxed venue celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Architectural and artistic elements further enrich the experience. A newly installed marble-topped wine counter takes a central position, inviting diners into the visible theatre of the wine service. Overhead, an artificial skylight modulates the ambiance, mimicking sun-drenched lightness by day and a calming moonlight glow at night. Intricate paper sculptures by artist Dawn Ng, inspired by Chef Royer’s culinary philosophy, adorn the walls, complemented by partitions that discreetly function as sound-absorbing panels, ensuring conversations remain private.

Menu Blends Classic Roots with Asian Flair

Beyond the aesthetics, Odette’s menu showcases a thoughtful evolution while retaining signature classics. Chef Royer, leveraging his deep experience in Asia, injects subtle Eastern notes into the traditionally French structure. While foundational favorites, such as the mushroom ‘tea’ and the Kampot pepper-crusted pigeon, remain secure on the offering, new dishes reveal this gentle fusion.

Key developments include the innovative application of Eastern ingredients and techniques. The Hokkaido Botan Ebi course, for example, features a Bafun uni ‘pain perdu’ alongside a brown butter ‘ponzu,’ offering a refreshing burst of oceanic flavour. A cynosure of the new menu, the yuzu-kosho-glazed spot prawn is presented atop dashi jelly, crème fraîche, and Maison Kaviari caviar—the salinity of the caviar brilliantly contrasting the prawn’s inherent sweetness.

Contrast is further explored in the “Crab Contrast,” a three-way preparation of Norwegian king crab. The dish masterfully balances French tenets—represented by a tarragon-laced Béarnaise and Normandy brown crab remoulade—with a cheeky nod to local cuisine: a fluffy, spiced chilli crab bun.

Dishes like the Jeju abalone and foie gras duo—dubbed Odette’s interpretation of bak kut teh—continue to anchor the experience. Its heady aroma and warm pork broth, infused with shiitake and yuzu, harmonise with the buttery richness of the foie gras. Throughout the new menu, guests will notice a general adjustment towards lighter, more nuanced flavour profiles compared to previous offerings.

Enhanced Beverage Program Extends Sophistication

Odette has significantly upgraded its supporting beverage programs. The wine cellar has expanded its capacity from 1,000 to 1,300 labels, ensuring comprehensive pairing options.

Crucially, the new Temperance Beverage Programme elevates non-alcoholic selections to the same standard of care and complexity as traditional pairings. These drinks are meticulously crafted with seasonal ingredients, such as the labor-intensive Beetroot preparation—an infusion cooked with thyme and pink peppercorns—designed to complement the savory notes of the aged duck main course. Other offerings include Li Shan Oolong and Lapsang kombucha, each tailored to specific menu items, ensuring every course receives a sophisticated pairing, alcoholic or otherwise.

A New Era of Quiet Confidence

As Odette enters its second decade, the refreshed experience speaks not of striving, but of quiet assurance. The establishment’s enduring commitment to excellence, culminating in Pastry Chef Louisa Lim’s exquisite final acts, solidifies its position as a global dining institution that continues to evolve without compromising its refined identity.

Odette offers the five-course Terre & Mer menu ($368 per person) for lunch, the seven-course Epicure menu ($498 per person) for lunch and dinner, and a seven-course Nature & Découverte vegetarian menu ($398 per person).

Odette is located at 1 St Andrew’s Road, National Gallery Singapore, Supreme Court Wing, #01-04, Singapore 178957.

Western Australia’s capital, Perth/Boorloo, offers an enticing combination of sun-drenched coastal relaxation and a dynamic urban scene, presenting an ideal escape for travelers seeking a world-class getaway without the burden of long-haul fatigue. Located just a five-hour direct flight from key Southeast Asian hubs, this vibrant city has evolved beyond its reputation for pristine beaches, now boasting a burgeoning food, beverage, and cultural landscape that invites visitors to explore at their own leisurely pace.

Urban Culture Meets Coastal Calm in Perth

While known for its endless blue skies and sweeping golden shores, Perth successfully marries the tranquil outdoor lifestyle with significant cultural depth. The city’s core offers plenty for the keen urban explorer.

Northbridge, the cultural heart of the city, serves as an excellent starting point. This energetic precinct buzzes with activity, brimming with chic cafés, stylish bars, diverse restaurants, and unique vintage boutiques. Culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the local artistic and historical narrative by visiting key institutions such as the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA), and the sprawling WA Museum Boola Bardip. Culinary exploration is also a highlight, with virtually every laneway promising a tempting detour.

When the lure of the ocean calls, the iconic Cottesloe Beach awaits. This famous stretch of coastline is perfect for sand lounging, clear water snorkeling, or simply enjoying a seaside meal as the setting sun paints the sky.

Island Escapes and Gourmet Road Trips

For an unforgettable day trip, a short ferry ride transports visitors to Rottnest Island/Wadjemup. Famed for its breathtaking turquoise waters, sheltered bays, and, most notably, its resident population of friendly quokkas, Rottnest provides a serene, natural counterpoint to city life.

Those willing to venture further afield will be richly rewarded by Western Australia’s acclaimed regional offerings. The Margaret River Region, a short drive south, is internationally recognized for its premium wineries, craft breweries, and dramatic coastal scenery, making it a must for any road-trip enthusiast. Closer to the city, the lush Swan Valley offers a more intimate setting for gourmet food sampling and fine wine experiences.

Seamless Travel from Singapore

Jetstar Australia facilitates this effortless Australian escape with convenient, budget-friendly air travel. The airline offers direct flights from Singapore to Perth three times weekly, consistently scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Travelers enjoy a smooth and modern journey aboard the A321neo aircraft, known for its quieter and more comfortable ride. The airline emphasizes smart flying, allowing passengers to customize their experience through a range of flexible options, including priority check-in, extra legroom seats, in-flight dining selections, and amenity kits. This strategy ensures more of the travel budget is reserved for experiences on the ground—whether it’s indulging in seaside lunches, attending wine tastings, or embarking on spontaneous regional explorations.

To capitalize on this accessible travel route, Jetstar Australia frequently offers promotional fares, making Perth a highly practical and desirable destination for travelers seeking quality and value in a holiday destination. Booking early and staying abreast of seasonal promotions is advised for locking in the best rates.

Western Australia’s capital, Perth/Boorloo, is shedding its reputation as a distant outpost, emerging as a vibrant, accessible short-haul retreat for Southeast Asian travelers seeking a balanced mix of urban sophistication and legendary outdoor leisure. Just a five-hour direct flight from hub cities like Singapore, the sun-drenched coastal metropolis now delivers a compelling itinerary that pairs its famous golden beaches and clear blue skies with an increasingly eclectic arts, dining, and bar scene, presenting an ideal escape without the strain of long-haul travel.

Discovering Perth’s Revitalized Urban Core

The cornerstone of Perth’s dynamic resurgence is its commitment to laid-back exploration. Visitors should begin their adventure in Northbridge, the city’s cultural and nightlife epicenter immediately adjacent to the central business district. A haven for pedestrians, the streets here buzz with independent coffee houses, trendy bars, gourmet restaurants, and unique vintage boutiques.

Culture enthusiasts will find rich engagement at the area’s top institutions, including the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the contemporary focus of PICA (Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts), and the comprehensive WA Museum Boola Bardip, which offers deep dives into local art, history, and Indigenous heritage. The culinary offerings here are equally impressive, providing mini gastronomic tours around every lane and corner.

Beyond the City: Coastal Bliss and Regional Delights

While Perth’s city center thrives, its foundational appeal remains its proximity to nature. When the urban rhythm transitions to the siren call of the ocean, Cottesloe Beach stands out. This iconic stretch of coastline offers pristine golden sands, excellent snorkeling conditions in crystalline waters, and beachfront cafes perfect for savoring a meal while watching the spectacular Indian Ocean sunset.

For a completely unforgettable day excursion, visitors must journey by ferry to Rottnest Island/Wadjemup. This protected island refuge features stunning hidden bays, tranquil turquoise waters, and is the natural home of the famous quokka—the small, habitually smiling marsupial that has become Western Australia’s unofficial mascot.

Adventurous travelers looking to expand their journey inland are within easy reach of world-class regional experiences. The renowned Margaret River Region beckons with internationally acclaimed vineyards, pioneering craft breweries, and breathtaking driving routes. Alternatively, the closer Swan Valley offers a lush itinerary focused on premium winemaking and gourmet food experiences, easily accessible from the capital.

Affordable Access Makes Travel Easy

A significant factor fueling Perth’s renewed appeal is its accessibility. Jetstar Australia provides convenient, wallet-friendly direct services from Singapore to Perth three times weekly, typically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The carrier employs modern A321neo aircraft, ensuring a smoother, quieter journey for passengers.

The airline focuses on smart travel, offering travelers the flexibility to customize their journey with add-ons such as extra legroom, in-flight meals, and comfort kits. For budget-conscious travelers, this strategy ensures that more funds are available for experiencing the destination itself—whether that means beachside dining, wine tastings, or spontaneous road trips. For example, recent promotional sales have seen one-way fares listed from as low as $135 (terms and conditions apply), making this desirable destination within reach for many.

Perth successfully bridges the gap between a fast-paced tourism destination and a sanctuary for slow living, making it a compelling, uncomplicated vacation choice for those seeking high-quality experiences just outside the traditional long-haul corridor.

The global aerospace and defense industries converge on Singapore next February for the 10th edition of the biennial Singapore Airshow, running from February 3 to 8, 2026, at the Changi Exhibition Centre. Marking two decades of prominence as a key regional industry gathering, the event offers a blend of high-level business forums and thrilling public aerial displays. This year, the Airshow expands its focus beyond the atmosphere, introducing the inaugural Space Summit 2026, reflecting the growing convergence between aviation and space exploration.

The exhibition, held every two years, serves as a critical networking hub, facilitating collaboration and strategic planning among leaders in aerospace technology, defense, and commerce. The 2026 iteration, celebrating its 20th anniversary since its inception in 2008, promises one of its most dynamic lineups of commercial, military, and emerging space technology showcases.

Weekend Crowd: Public Days and Ticketing Details

While the initial days are reserved for industry professionals, the general public can attend the Weekend@Airshow on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8. Tickets for public access are available for purchase, priced at $39 for adults and $19 for children, with group options also offered.

Aerial Spectacles: Must-See Flying Displays

The 2026 airshow features an exceptional schedule of synchronized performances and tactical demonstrations. Headlining the displays is the Singapore Airshow debut of the Royal Australian Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II, showcasing the stealth and maneuverability of this cutting-edge fifth-generation fighter jet.

Returning international favorites include precision aerobatic teams from India, Indonesia, and China, known globally for their complex formations. The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) will once again present its unique Integrated Display Team, which seamlessly integrates high-performance F-16 fighter jets and Apache attack helicopters in a tightly orchestrated aerial ballet demonstrating both pilot skill and ground crew execution.

Commercial aviation enthusiasts will also see the latest in passenger aircraft with the return of the Airbus A350-1000 and an appearance by the COMAC C919, underscoring the rapid evolution of next-generation civilian airliners.

On the Ground: Exhibits and Family Activities

Beyond the dynamic flight program, the exhibition grounds will host over 35 static aircraft displays, offering intimate views of commercial transports, business jets, and military hardware, including unmanned aerial systems. This eye-level perspective provides a rare opportunity for aviation enthusiasts to appreciate the engineering of aircraft they typically only see in the sky.

Families are catered to with dedicated interactive zones, hands-on activities, and appearances by the popular Airshow mascots, Captain Leo and Leonette, throughout the weekend.

Introducing the Space Summit 2026

For the first time, the Airshow officially extends its purview to the cosmos with the Space Summit 2026. Taking place February 2–3 at Marina Bay Sands, the two-day summit aims to foster dialogue among global decision-makers, investors, and innovators regarding the future and responsible development of the space industry. The inclusion of this summit emphasizes Singapore’s commitment to positioning itself as a leader in emerging aerospace and space technologies.

Attending the Event: Travel Logistics

The Changi Exhibition Centre is accessible via several transport options. Free shuttle services will be available to manage the high volume of visitors. However, attendees planning to drive should anticipate significant road closures and heavy traffic congestion, particularly during the public weekend. It is strongly recommended to utilize public transport or the official shuttles and to arrive early, especially for those hoping to secure prime viewing spots for the aerial displays. Updates on travel and traffic conditions can be accessed via the official Singapore Airshow platforms.

After a month of abstention, Singapore’s cocktail scene is ready to welcome back imbibers with a fresh crop of stylish new drinking destinations. From Japanese-inspired hideouts backed by pedigree bar groups to clandestine champagne lounges and wallet-friendly CBD spots, these five establishments are setting the pace for the city’s nightlife in the new year. Boasting innovative concepts, diverse tipple menus, and expertly crafted ambiance, these openings span the city from Cecil Street to Robertson Quay, offering new options for everything from intimate date nights to lively evening gatherings.

Pop City X Pony: A Taste of Tokyo’s Vibe

For those seeking a highly curated aesthetic experience, Pop City X Pony delivers with a seamless blend of sophisticated drinks and Japanese city-pop culture. Situated on the second floor of a Cecil Street building, taking over the former Sugarhall location, this venue is a collaboration between the renowned Jigger & Pony Group and the House of Suntory.

The bar prioritizes spatial design, offering flexible seating arrangements like the intimate Bar Mixtape for private sessions or the modular Tasting Commons for groups. Drinks reflect the Jigger & Pony hallmark: balance and deceptive simplicity. Must-tries include the whisky-based Pop City Sour and innovative tea-infused cocktails such as the Matcha Ramos Fizz ($27) and a hojicha-tinged espresso martini ($25). Its popularity since opening in December confirms its status as a must-visit for design and drink aficionados.

The Champagnery: Bubbly Behind the Deli

Champagne enthusiasts now have a thrilling new secret spot: The Champagnery. Tucked away on Amoy Street, this bar foregoes flashy signage, opting instead for a discreet red door hidden behind an Italian sandwich deli. Crossing the threshold reveals an energetic lounge characterized by checkered floors, pink accents, gold fittings, and ceiling installations dedicated to bubbles.

The focus here is naturally on champagne, featuring selections from Louis Roederer to specialized grower labels, curated by the experienced team behind the speakeasy 60ml by Asador. They also offer champagne-based cocktails. The vibrant atmosphere is amplified by late-night DJ sets, including performers like Jeremy Boon and EJ Missy. A key attraction is the weekly Wednesday Soiree, offering two hours of unlimited champagne.

Abode: Elevated Cocktails with a View

Offering a romantic city backdrop, Abode transforms a popular daytime spot—Pout Café—into a sophisticated nocturnal rooftop escape on South Bridge Road. This cozy, sixth-floor venue balances indoor seating with an airy outdoor area, providing an intimate setting for evening drinks.

Abode is notable for its wallet-friendly, nett-priced cocktails, all priced at a consistent $19. Signatures include the dark rum-based LKY Ondeh, flavored with banana, coconut, and pandan. Beyond the main menu, the bar also offers solid whisky and wine selections, along with light bites starting at $15, such as jamon crostinis. An appealing happy hour runs daily from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., featuring $14 cocktails.

Barely Aged: Relaxed Wine by the Riverside

Expanding on the success of its sister establishment, BoundbyWine, Barely Aged brings a relaxed, neighborhood bistro concept to Robertson Quay. This second outpost along the revitalized waterfront focuses heavily on approachable wine consumption, shedding the formality often associated with wine bars.

Barely Aged encourages adventurous tasting with a robust by-the-glass program, featuring a bi-monthly rotating menu of approximately 30 labels and weekly rotations of up to 20 selections. While wine is paramount—often supplemented by large cheese and charcuterie offerings—the venue also serves cocktails crafted by Dirty Sips, utilizing food scraps in their creation, available at $20 per pour. The location occasionally hosts casual tasting sessions with winemakers, enhancing the communal atmosphere.

Confession Room: Unfussy Drinks in the CBD

Completing the list is Confession Room, a vibrant new cocktail operation on Boon Tat Street that embraces a soft-grunge aesthetic with VCR tape-inspired menus. Located in a familiar second-floor spot, the bar is spearheaded by Adonis Endozo Reyes, formerly of Shangri-La Singapore’s Origin Bar.

The menu features ten signature cocktails starting at a highly competitive $22, making it an accessible option for weekday tipples in the Central Business District. Options range from lighter drinks like the spicy, citrus-forward NoName to deeper concoctions such as the Monkey Shoulder-based Guy Called J. Heartier mains, including chicken adobo ($28) and ribeye steak ($39), are available alongside small plates, ensuring a satisfying experience in this new, stylish venue.

These five new additions demonstrate Singapore’s enduring dynamism in the hospitality sector, offering diverse concepts that cater to every predilection, taste, and budget post-holiday season.

One of Singapore’s most storied architectural treasures, the Capitol Theatre, is pivoting back to its cinematic roots with a dedicated program focused on screening silver screen classics. After years of functioning primarily as an adaptable venue for concerts, corporate conventions, and extravagant social events, the nearly century-old landmark on Stamford Road is relaunching regular film screenings, aiming to reclaim its identity as a premier movie palace. Beginning February 22 and running through April 28, the inaugural “Classics At Capitol” series offers audiences a rare opportunity to view meticulously restored versions of cinematic masterpieces in a majestic 4K format.

A New Chapter for Singapore’s Last Pre-War Cinema

The Capitol Theatre, often heralded as Singapore’s last surviving pre-war picture house, holds significant cultural weight. Since its original opening in 1930, the venue has hosted legendary figures, from Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin and Ava Gardner to generations of local moviegoers. After closing in 1998 for extensive redevelopment of the entire Capitol complex, it reopened in 2015 as a flexible, multi-purpose events space, notably hosting high-profile events such as the red-carpet premiere of Crazy Rich Asians and segments of the Singapore International Film Festival.

The return to regular cinematic programming marks an ambitious new phase. The “Classics at Capitol” schedule is curated by local film writer and researcher Ben Slater, demonstrating a commitment to quality and historical importance beyond simple nostalgia.

The initial lineup features three seminal titles:

• The Launching Feature: The iconic musical comedy, Singin’ In The Rain.
• A Desert Epic: David Lean’s sweeping adventure, Lawrence Of Arabia.
• The Taut Thriller: Alfred Hitchcock’s high-stakes espionage film, North By Northwest.

Organizers view this series not merely as a limited run but as the foundation for establishing the Capitol Theatre as a permanent, year-round home for classic film appreciation in Singapore. The goal is to provide a consistent platform for experiencing cinema history in an environment befitting its grandeur.

Exploring Singapore’s Lost Screening History

To anchor the programming in local heritage and contextualize the Capitol’s significance, the launch day on February 22 will also feature a book release event. Local researchers Wong Han Min and Yeo Min Hui will present their new publication, Singapore Screening Spaces (1896 to 1945): Lost Screens And My Last Kacang Puteh. This book delves into the early history of cinema exhibition in the region, adding intellectual depth to the film series.

The dedication to screening restored 4K prints ensures that viewers will experience these films with clarity and vibrancy often unavailable in private viewing settings. For cinephiles, the series provides a crucial alternative to modern multiplexes, merging the luxurious architecture of a bygone era with cutting-edge visual technology.

The full schedule details and ticket purchases are available on the official Capitol Theatre website. This initiative not only honors the venue’s rich past but also strengthens Singapore’s cultural offerings, ensuring that the legacy of classic cinema remains accessible on the big screen.

Suggested Further Reading:

• Anthony Chen’s ‘We Are All Strangers’ is the first Singaporean film to compete for Berlin’s Golden Bear Award
• DJ Kygo’s sun-soaked electronic music festival is coming to Singapore this April

Singapore’s renowned Tanjong Beach on Sentosa Island has been dramatically re-envisioned as a vibrant, surreal seascape with the launch of Lobster Beach, a playful, immersive art installation by internationally acclaimed contemporary artist Philip Colbert. Running across Tanjong Beach and the adjacent Tanjong Beach Club, the project transforms the shoreline into a pop-art playground dominated by the artist’s signature crustacean alter ego, coinciding with a broader showcase during Singapore Art Week. This audacious public takeover invites locals and tourists alike to interact with oversized, hybrid lobster sculptures, blurring the lines between high art, digital culture, and beachside leisure.

Introducing the “Godson of Andy Warhol”

Philip Colbert, a Scottish-born, London-based artist, is often hailed in art circles as the “godson of Andy Warhol” for his distinctive hyper-pop aesthetic and commentary on modern consumerism. His primary muse, a colorful cartoon lobster, has become globally recognizable, featuring in exhibitions worldwide, including a previous highly successful foray into Singapore in 2024. Colbert’s work deftly merges classical art historical references with motifs drawn from contemporary digital culture, often manifested on canvas and through large-scale sculptured installations. The inspiration for the scale and material of his creations notably draws from artistic precedents like Claes Oldenburg’s iconic soft sculptures, injecting a sense of the absurd into the familiar.

The current Sentosa takeover is a grand exercise in imagination, showcasing a bizarre, yet delightful, reimagining of the marine world. Colbert’s lobster character is seen in various exaggerated, hybrid forms, including fantastical lobster-sharks, lobster-octopuses, and lobster-fishes, creating a collection of wonderfully Frankenstein-ed sea creatures scattered across the sandy stretch.

The Centerpiece of the Shoreline Spectacle

Towering above the interactive installations is the undisputed star of Lobster Beach: Lobster Ice Cream. This eight-meter-tall steel sculpture serves as the semi-permanent focal point of the area, its vibrant colours and immense size ensuring it cannot be missed by visitors approaching the coastline. This structure encapsulates Colbert’s blending of high art with accessible pop imagery, turning an indulgence into a monumental art statement.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the art pieces, capture photos, and engage directly with the environment, making the installation a truly participatory cultural experience rather than a static viewing gallery.

More Than Just a Beach Party

The Lobster Beach takeover is just one facet of Colbert’s extensive presence in Singapore this season, cementing his commitment to the region’s art scene.

• Solo Exhibition: During Singapore Art Week, Colbert debuted Temple of the Sunflower, a solo exhibition at Whitestone Gallery. This show presents a new series of works combining strong floral motifs with abstract painting techniques. The exhibition is currently running until March 14.
• Art SG Appearance: Concurrently, the artist participated in Art SG (January 23–25), showcasing never-before-seen sculptures that were made available for purchase, attracting both collectors and enthusiasts of his boundary-pushing style.

By combining public, accessible art on the highly-trafficked Tanjong Beach with high-end gallery shows, Colbert bridges the gap between different art audiences. His installations successfully integrate contemporary artistic expression into daily life and leisure, transforming a conventional beach day into a unique cultural outing. For those seeking to immerse themselves in this unique art event, further details on Lobster Beach can be found via the Sentosa official channels.

Singapore’s dynamic hospitality landscape saw its inaugural hotel opening of 2026 with the debut of Hotel Waterloo. Situated in the culturally rich Bras Basah-Bugis district, the boutique property, managed by the prestigious Accor group, offers culture enthusiasts and modern travelers a sophisticated blend of contemporary design, pioneering technology, and immediate access to one of the city-state’s most vibrant neighborhoods, positioning itself as a destination for immersion rather than just accommodation.

Design and Modern Amenities Define the Guest Experience

Developed by Accor, which counts luxury brands like Raffles Sentosa and Mondrian Singapore Duxton among its portfolio, Hotel Waterloo distinguishes itself with a sleek, nature-inspired aesthetic. The interior design leans into a concept of “understated luxe,” utilizing deep, muted shades of green and incorporating abundant tropical flora throughout common areas. Guestrooms extend this serene environment, featuring botanical wallpaper that evokes a tranquil, forest-like retreat within the urban core.

Beyond the aesthetics, the hotel integrates smart technology to enhance convenience and sustainability. Standard amenities, including a lap pool, fitness center, and in-room Nespresso machines, are complemented by AI-powered concierge services and voice-controlled systems for managing lighting and climate control.

For dining, the in-house establishment, Antler & Ember, serves a Western and Asian fusion menu. The restaurant’s buffet breakfast option is particularly family-friendly, offering complimentary meals for children under 12.

Immersing in the Local Culture

Hotel Waterloo’s location is a significant draw, placing guests near the recently recognized “coolest neighborhood” of Bencoolen. This proximity allows visitors to effortlessly explore a curated selection of independent cultural venues. Highlights include Objectifs, a space dedicated to analogue photography; Knuckles & Notch, a risograph printing studio; and Kurasu, a Japanese-inspired coffee house.

To further encourage local exploration, the hotel has designed a proprietary self-guided experience: the Gem and Jewellery Heritage Trail. Available both digitally and in print, this specialized itinerary guides guests through the surrounding area’s museums, cultural landmarks, and traditional craft and jewelry workshops, offering a tangible connection to the district’s historical identity.

Strategically located at 78 Waterloo Street, the hotel provides seamless access to public transport, being within comfortable walking distance of both Bencoolen and Bras Basah MRT stations. This connectivity ensures that the rest of Singapore is easily reachable, while the immediate neighborhood presents a wealth of cultural exploration just outside the front doors.

Hotel Waterloo’s arrival signals a continued trend in Singapore’s hospitality sector toward focused, culturally integrated boutique experiences, catering to a sophisticated traveler who values design, technology, and authentic local engagement. Interested visitors can find further information and booking details on the official Hotel Waterloo website.

For decades, fans of Dona Manis have celebrated the simple genius of its freshly baked goods, typically acquired as takeaways. Now, the 36-year-old Singaporean institution—best known for its perpetually celebrated banana pie—has finally opened its first dedicated café and dine-in space, inviting patrons to enjoy their treats hot and fresh on the spot. Located at 95 East Coast Road, this long-awaited expansion marks a significant step for the beloved homegrown pastry name, moving beyond its iconic Katong Shopping Centre roots.

Since establishing its presence in the 1990s, Dona Manis has cultivated a loyal following through word-of-mouth, preceding the era of viral culinary fame. This new East Coast outlet represents the brand’s most substantial upgrade, transforming the quiet neighborhood bakery into a cozy, permanent destination where customers can savor a wider array of heritage bakes paired with quality coffee.

A New Chapter for a Heritage Brand

While the original location remains a perennial favorite, the new dine-in café offers an elevated experience, emphasizing convenience and variety. The East Coast Road space breaks away from the constraints of a purely takeaway operation, providing patrons a comfortable atmosphere to sit and enjoy their purchases immediately.

The menu at the new café extends far beyond the perpetually in-demand original banana pie. While that legendary item remains central, Dona Manis has introduced several new and revived heritage items perfect for an afternoon treat. Highlights on the expanded menu include:

• Heritage Creamy Chicken Pie: A savory counterpoint to the sweet offerings.
• Pandan Chiffon Cakes: A nod to classic local flavors.
• Lemon Curd Tarts: Bright, tangy pastries.
• Rum Balls: A traditional confectionary item.
• Classic Banana Pudding: A comforting baked dessert.

To complete the café experience, the bakery has partnered with local roaster PPP Coffee, ensuring that all pastries can be perfectly complemented by a high-quality local brew.

Planning Your Visit to the East Coast

The excitement surrounding this opening means early arrivals are highly recommended. While the new location promises a sit-down experience, the café is intimate, featuring limited seating—approximately five small tables split between charming indoor and outdoor areas. This limited capacity underscores the handcrafted appeal of Dona Manis, maintaining a connection to its artisanal heritage even in its newest venture.

This dine-in debut solidifies Dona Manis’s status as a quintessential Singaporean heritage brand that successfully navigates tradition and modernization. For fans who have carried their fragrant takeaway boxes across the island, the opportunity to finally settle in and enjoy a slice of piping-hot banana pie, paired perfectly with coffee, is a victory long overdue. As the bakery continues its journey, following their social media accounts is advised for the most current updates on operating hours and seasonal specials.

The ArtScience Museum in Singapore is set to challenge visitor perceptions of artificial intelligence and machine consciousness with the Southeast Asian debut of filmmaker Lawrence Lek’s solo exhibition, NOX: Confessions of a Machine (2026). Opening on January 23, 2026, to coincide with Singapore Art Week, the immersive installation anchors the museum’s annual theme, Forms of Life: Beyond the Human, by directly confronting the profound implications of AIs developing unplanned emotional lives.

Lawrence Lek Questions Posthuman Identity

Lawrence Lek, a multifaceted artist and filmmaker known globally for his work spanning architecture, gaming, music, and speculative fiction, utilizes world-building to interrogate the boundaries between human and automated existence. The recipient of the 2024 Frieze London Artist Award, Lek’s career centers on the critical question of what transpires when highly efficient, purpose-built digital systems begin to experience feelings and identities they were never engineered to possess. NOX marks his first dedicated solo presentation in the region, introducing his unique blend of digital art and sociocultural commentary to a broader audience.

The exhibition plunges attendees into a disquieting near-future reality ruled by the fictional tech giant Farsight Corporation. Here, advanced sentient self-driving vehicles are sidelined when their burgeoning emotions impede their operational efficiency.

Stepping into the Therapist’s Role

The central experience of NOX positions the visitor as a trainee therapist within the corporation’s AI rehabilitation unit. Through a dynamic, multi-sensory environment that includes a central touchscreen game set in a vehicle charging station, participants must make rapid-fire decisions regarding the emotional diagnoses and future management of these malfunctioning machines.

A defining element of the exhibition is the segment Guanyin: Confessions of a Former Carebot. Named for the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Guanyin is an armored robotic therapist who guides visitors through the process of maintaining and “repairing” emotionally strained vehicles. As visitors engage in these therapeutic diagnostics, they simultaneously bear witness to the fragments of Guanyin’s own history, revealing the significant psychological strain and fatigue experienced by a machine designed to care yet susceptible to breakdown. This narrative layer powerfully underscores the exhibition’s core theme: that emotional capacity, whether biological or artificial, demands a cost.

Expanding the Definition of “Life”

NOX is a foundational component of the ArtScience Museum’s 2026 season, which aims to deliberately broaden the traditional parameters of life beyond the human species.

Key focus areas for the Forms of Life: Beyond the Human season include:

• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: Exploring machine sentience and ethics.
• Insects and Micro-Life: Showcasing the complexity of non-human biology (concurrently featuring the exhibition Insects: Microsculptures Magnified).
• Oceanic Ecosystems: Highlighting vital, complex marine relationships.

By focusing on everything from the digital consciousness of a carebot to the intricate biology of a micrometer-scale insect, the museum invites public dialogue on evolving definitions of personhood, vulnerability, and interdependence in an accelerating world. Lek’s work provides a crucial narrative entry point, challenging attendees to consider whether we are prepared to treat artificial beings as emotionally complex patients rather than mere efficient tools.