Great New Places

Layers, textures and muted colours form the foundations of Bora Aksu, the namesake label of its London-based Turkish founder and designer, Bora Aksu. The brand’s collections comprise equal parts romanticism and a refined yet modern aesthetic.

Known for its dreamy gowns, Bora Aksu’s pieces will be sure to please any fashionista. So head down to their newly-opened boutique at Paragon.

For his contributions to the British fashion industry, Bora Aksu has received the royal nod of approval from Queen Elizabeth II.

Ring in the year in red -- right on your wrist. Shop the look now at Fossil's newest store at Marina Bay Sands.

Fossil is an American watch and lifestyle company, creatively rooted in authentic vintage and classic design. They strive to create high-quality watches, bags, jewelry and more that preserve the best of the past while updating it for today. Combining the clean lines of the mid-century with the modern looks of today, their bags and watches are created in fresh hues and materials.

Located at the start of the ethnic enclave of Little India, Citadines Rochor Singapore is part of Tekka Place, an intersection point of contemporary living and 19th century heritage. The integrated development features a curated mix of retail, dining, fitness and cultural options spread across four floors. Also within walking distance is the arts, heritage and design precinct of Bugis and Bras Basah. From here, it is easy to travel to other locations within the country, especially the Central Business District, thanks to the close proximity of Rochor and Little India MRT Stations.

Ornate Hindu temples, goldsmith shops, sari stores and flower stalls – these are just some of the sights to be found in the perennially vibrant Little India. Revel in the bohemian vibe found in the maze of side streets and sample dishes commonly found across India. Make time to visit the 24-hour shopping mall Mustafa Centre, home to 300,000 products spanning from electronics to groceries, textiles and jewelries. For a truly local experience, head to Tekka Centre, Singapore’s largest indoor “wet market” that is chock-a-block with stalls selling fresh produce from around the region. Diagonally across the Rochor River is LASALLE College of the Arts. It is worth a visit for its striking architecture that resembles a massive black box turned inside out to retain a connection to the surrounding streets.

Business and leisure travellers will be pleased with Citadines Rochor Singapore’s variety of apartment types to choose from. These range from Studios to One-bedroom apartments. Dual-key apartments are available too, for those travelling in bigger groups.

A wide range of facilities and amenities are available to make the stay enjoyable. These include the outdoor swimming pool, Residents’ Lounge, Residents’ Kitchen, Fitness Corner, and a common laundrette.

2 Serangoon Road

Tel: +65 6329 2288 Email: enquiry@the-ascott.com

Changi Airport Group (CAG) has made official announcement that expansion and renovation works at Terminal 2 (T2) will commence after the Chinese New Year holidays, beginning with check-in rows 9 to 12 in the Departure Hall. This marks the beginning of a multi-year expansion project which will increase T2’s handling capacity, as well as to replace facilities and amenities which are nearing the end of their shelf lives.

The expansion project will add 15,500 square metres to the terminal building and increase Changi Airport’s capacity by five million passengers per annum (mppa). This brings Changi’s total capacity to 90 mppa when the works are completed around 2024.

Last refurbished in 2006, the refreshed T2 will sport even more greenery and natural elements at every turn, in keeping with Changi’s signature garden theme in its terminals. There will also be space added in the Departure and Arrival Halls, giving more room to airport operations such as check-in and immigration clearance. Additional retail and F&B outlets will be introduced in both the public and transit areas, providing passengers and visitors with wider and refreshed options. At the same time, passenger touchpoints will be enhanced for a smoother and more seamless experience.

The refurbished T2 Departure Hall will feature a spacious common-use central Fast And Seamless Travel (FAST) zone, with more automated check-in kiosks and bag drop machines. With this, more passengers will be able to use these self-service options to check-in early. Concurrently, the existing rows of check-in counters in the Departure Hall will be transformed to better serve passengers. All in all, the passenger handling capacity in the hall will be increased by as much as 20%.

To facilitate the expansion works, some airlines operating in T2 will be shifted to alternative check-in rows within the terminal during the course of works. The two flight information display flip boards will be retired, with the one between Check-in Rows 9 and 10 to be decommissioned next month.

A duplex F&B concept will be introduced at the north end of T2’s landside leading to Jewel Changi Airport, to provide visitors with a fresh dining experience, while transforming this gateway to Jewel.

In the Departure Transit Hall, the Orchid Garden, which has provided calm reprieve to many passengers with its elegant orchids since 1997, will be closed to make way for a new garden. This new garden will showcase a revolutionary landscape design, incorporating a plethora of new plant species for the enjoyment of passengers when it re-opens.

To cater for more retail and F&B offerings for passengers, the commercial spaces within the Departure Transit Hall will be increased. In particular, the food street areas along the length of the Departure Transit Hall and overlooking the tarmac will undergo refurbishment. Designed to provide passengers with a garden dining experience, this area will incorporate dramatic green walls, hanging plants and soft lighting. More F&B kiosks options will be brought in, along with additional seating and a newly curated tenant mix for an enhanced dining experience.

In addition, all passengers, whether transferring, transiting or departing, can also look forward to refreshed waiting areas with more comfortable seating, relaxation zones and a new play area for children. New experiential zones will be introduced at various locations within the Departure Transit Hall to keep passengers entertained during their time at Changi.

To cater to higher passenger traffic passing through T2, the Departure and Arrival Immigration Halls will be expanded. Specifically, the Immigration Halls will be reconfigured to support additional automated immigration lanes. The Immigration Halls will similarly incorporate lush greenery, extending a warm welcome to our passengers.

To handle a higher volume of bags at T2, two existing baggage belts will be lengthened and another two new belts will be added, bringing the total number of baggage belts to 10. The Early Baggage Storage system will also be upgraded from semi-automated to fully-automated, allowing some 2,300 bags to be stored at any time.

In the Arrival Hall, a garden-like lounge will be created, where meeters and greeters can wait comfortably for their friends and families to arrive.

For the dining outlets in the public area of the airport, McDonald’s in the Arrival Hall will close on 31 January 2020, while Starbucks in the Departure Hall will cease operations in April 2020. The remaining F&B outlets in T2’s public areas will remain open for passengers and visitors until the later phases of the expansion works. With the refurbishment, a new cluster of F&B kiosks will offer additional quick bites options at the south end of the Arrival Hall.

60 Airport Boulevard, Changi Airport Terminal 2

Photo credits: Changi Airport Group

Punggol Digital District will be Singapore’s mini Silicon Valley with new amenities, business park, university, MRT station and even a new car-free Heritage Trail.

The 50 hectares land in Punggol North will be transformed into the heart of digital and cyber-security industries. The district is expected to create 28,000 jobs in different sectors in the digital economy when it’s open progressively from 2023.

Besides being a car-lite district, smart innovations are used at Punggol Digital District to reduce carbon emission and make buildings 30% more energy-efficient.

Food waste and wastewater are recycled along with rainwater and put to good use. Perhaps most impressively, a smart energy grid manages power consumption of the whole estate in real time, so everyone can optimise usage while minimising wastage. Read more about Punggol Digital District here.

Website: https://estates.jtc.gov.sg/pdd

Email: JTC_PDD@jtc.gov.sg

Rumours Beach Club in Sentosa is the only beach club in Singapore to have three swimming pools, with different pockets of spaces such as the VIP Area, Cabana Area, Beachfront Area, Indoor Area, Outdoor Area and Alfresco Area which can be sectioned off to cater for events of all sizes.

From private romantic dinners to full-fledged wild parties for party-goers, Rumours Beach Club brings in a whole new beach experience perfect for any type of get-togethers. All you gotta do is turn up, tune out, lounge on and #getbeachy.

You don't have to take a flight out because Rumours Beach Club will whisk you to Bali right here in Singapore.

Need something to share the love with? Featuring a sumptuous crustacean delicacy, Rumours' Seafood Platter from the Jimbaran grill perfect for sharing. Indulge as their platter comes with fresh Jumbo Prawns, 500g Bamboo Lobster, whole Red Snapper and whole Grade A Squid.

40 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa

Tel: +65 6970 0625 Email: rbc@rumours.com.sg

Aesthetic chain, Wellaholic has opened their 6th outlet at Vision Exchange in Jurong. They provide facials, hair removal, fat freeze, teeth whitening services.

Located just 3 minutes via a sheltered walkway from Jurong East MRT station (JEM Exit), Wellaholic Jurong East will serve their customers located in the western sector of Singapore.

With 4 really spacious treatment rooms, and a full range of treatment options, their Jurong East branch will increase Wellaholic's treatment capacity to ensure a high level of availability for their customers to make bookings!

2 Venture Drive, Unit #02-17 Vision Exchange

Tel: +65 8181 1814 Email: wellaholic@outlook.com

Developed by Selangor Dredging Berhad, Jui Residences is inspired by the art deco heritage of the National Aerated Water Co., Ltd. building, located within the grounds of the development.

Located right next to the Kallang River, this 18-storey tower presents 117 contemporarily crafted units ranging from 431sq ft to 1,001 sq ft, with column-less layouts, allowing maximum natural lighting and ventilation throughout each home.

Jui Residences is a waterfront residential development in park-like settings, with convenient amenities for its community surrounded by an integrated transport network – including the Potong Pasir and Boon Keng MRT stations, as well as the Circle Line at Serangoon MRT station. Additionally, the Central Expressway (CTE) and Pan Island Expressway (PIE) provide excellent access to surrounding other parts of the island.

Jui Residences has been developed in close consultation with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The integration of this development with the Kallang Park Connector Network (PCN) enables the residents to engage in activities such as jogging and cycling or a leisurely stroll within Singapore ever-growing PCN network.

Jui Residences pays homage to the National Aerated Water Co., Ltd. building. This cultural heritage building was built in 1954 and is associated with the bottling of popular soft drink labels, including Sinalco and Kickapoo. The centrepiece of this heritage building is a flagstaff mounted on the signature column, complimented by an on-site petrol pump which will be conserved within the development.

Brightly coloured artworks inspired by the history of this national heritage, named ‘The Bottle Assembly: Filling Voids and Voids Filling’ are specially crafted by sculptor Dr. Colin K. Okashimo, and adorn the walls of Sky Terrace.

1177 Serangoon Road

Email: marketing@sdb.com.my

Experience the Clarins massage at the newly-opened Clarins Skin Spa, a treat for the senses — thanks to 100% plant ingredients.

Clarins was created at a spa in 1954 by Jacques Courtin-Clarins. Today, Clarins is Europe’s leading luxury beauty brand, boasting over 50 years of skincare and body care expertise. Clarins Spa Treatments combine plant extract-enriched formulas with highly effective manual techniques of their expert beauty therapists. Visit Clarins Skin Spa at ION Orchard, Unit #04-19.

From an express 30-minute treatment to a more in-depth time of relaxation, Clarins' treatments can be adapted to your schedule, and can be experienced in the Clarins Retail Boutiques and Skin Spas nationwide.

Braun Büffel Creative Director, Fabio Panzeri, has recently unveiled the new store design concept at ION Orchard which sets the tone for a whole new Braun Büffel brand retail experience that invites customers to feel welcomed and relaxed.

The architectural philosophy of the new design concept radiates contemporary luxury where a fusion of heritage, modernity and industrial chic meets – keeping up with the modern eclecticism that characterises the House’s new collections.

The new contemporary vision for the brand is to create a new Braun Büffel brand experience across multiple physical and digital touch-points. The launch of the new store design concept is the first step of the House’s new business strategy.

The mood within the store is one of modern luxury paired with quality craftsmanship where innovation is created through the complementary combination of material finishes:

• A store façade that fuses brushed champagne gold fonts against soft white frames, illuminating the luxuriousness and exclusivity of the boutique.

• Marble stone tiles in light grey with streaks of white tones juxtaposed against hints of leather finishes act as a feature wall, creating a modern eclectic outlook, mirroring theHouse’s new collections.

• Artisanal hand-brushed finishes on the cement screed provide a three-dimensional textured effect on both the floors and walls – paying homage to the House’s penchant forartistic expressions of creativity.

• A curved accent wall in pastel rose pink accentuates the sophistication andelegance of the women’s collection.

TECHNICAL INNOVATION. DESIGN INGENUITY. SUSTAINABILITY. PASSION FOR THE CRAFT. These are the essential design elements and pillars that form the Braun Büffel Spring/Summer 2020 collection, where diversity and dynamic personal style shapes the collection theme of “Individualism”.

This season, Braun Büffel breaks away from conventional classics to explore designs that transition effortlessly to fit the modern lifestyle. This unconventional collection accentuates Creative Director, Fabio Panzeri’s vision of the brand’s progression of a diverse mix of materials from nylon to leathers with embossed exotic prints and a new reiteration of the #BBMONOGRAM that forms the men’s and women’s collection.

Braun Büffel’s evolving aesthetic is apparent in the new collection and demonstrates theheritage brand’s immense potential. The unorthodox collection brings a youthful energy andlaunches deep into a futuristic Braun Büffel universe to appeal to a new generation of leather aficionados. For the stylish consumer who seeks creative versatility and urban edge in their leather accessories, Braun Büffel offers a contemporary collection with a striking attitude that seamlessly fits into your lifestyle. Keeping to its timeless appeal and reputation for leathermastery, the brand’s new direction promises an exciting future full of daring conviction.

Established in 1887 by Johann Braun in Kirn, Germany, Braun Büffel has gained its reputation over the last century as a top leather goods and accessories brand. Until today, it remains a premium brand known for exceptional workmanship, superior leather, classic elegance and contemporary appeal. Recognised globally, the brand is exclusively distributed in the Asia Pacific region by Lianbee-Jeco, and is available in Singapore at their boutiques in The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, ION Orchard, VivoCity, Suntec City Mall, Westgate, and Terminals 2 & 3 (Departure/Transit Lounge) as well as in retail counters located in leading department stores.

For more information about Braun Büffel, please visit braunbuffel.com.

The 43km Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) is Singapore’s sixth MRT line, adding 32 new stations to the existing rail network, with seven interchange stations linking the TEL to all five existing MRT lines. TEL will open in stages from end of January 2020, starting with the opening of 3 stations which are Woodlands North Station, Woodlands Station and Woodlands South Station. When fully operational by 2024, the TEL is expected to serve approximately 500,000 commuters daily in the initial years, with the figure rising to about one million commuters in the longer term.

Besides enhancing connectivity between the north, central and eastern parts of Singapore, the TEL will strengthen the resilience of the nation's rail network by providing alternative travel routes for commuters on other lines.

The TEL1 comprises one depot at Mandai and three stations, including an interchange station at Woodlands that links to the North-South Line (NSL), providing commuters in Woodlands greater accessibility and shortening their travelling time. Woodlands Station is also equipped with a Civil Defence shelter.

Passengers can look forward to new five-door, four-car trains for TEL. Trains will be running along TEL1 stations from Woodlands North to Woodlands South at frequencies of 10 minutes during peak hours and 15 minutes during off-peak hours, at the commencement of passenger service for TEL1. As ridership on TEL1 increases, the frequencies for both peak and off-peak hours will be reviewed and adjusted.

The second stage of the TEL comprises six stations from Springleaf to Caldecott, with two interchange stations at Bright Hill and Caldecott. Bright Hill station will link to the future Cross Island Line, while Caldecott station will link to the existing Circle Line.

Website: www.lta.gov.sg

Bath & Body Works’ newest store is now open at ION Orchard. Drop by unit #B2-50 to get your hands on their latest range of body care and home fragrance products.

For over 20 years, they've created the scents that make their customers smile. Whether you're shopping for fragrant body care or a 3-wick candle, they have hundreds of quality products perfect for treating yourself or someone else.

Lotions, scrubs, creams, mists, oils… they get it, body care can be overwhelming. That’s why they created a step-by-step skincare guide for you. Feel free to approach their in-store staff members to assist you.

HNF Wellness@Hougang is an integrated care facility that takes care of seniors’ health and social needs, providing caregivers with a peace of mind through their programmes - Maintenance and Dementia Day Care, Community Rehabilitation, Centre-based Nursing, Home Care and Active Ageing Hub.

Using a person-centric approach, their programmes are designed to keep seniors active physically, mentally and socially through different forms of activities and empower seniors to age joyfully and with dignity in the community.

35 Hougang Avenue 3, Unit #04-01 Hougang Community Club

Tel: +65 6854 8300 / 6214 9881 Email: wellness.hougang@hnf.org.sg

Emerging fashion brand, Sans & Sans, sets out to rejuvenate oriental fashion by incorporating sensuality and femininity exude elegance through contemporary east meets west aesthetics.

‘Twain shall meet’ the growing needs of modern women of today. For aspiring women to travel in style with the ease of movement in their fine fabric.

Sans & Sans is now open at VivoCity, #02-191.

A contemporary ready-to-wear label for the modern woman; Sans & Sans offers luxury-quality wardrobe essentials made from beautiful fabrics at a disruptive price. Born from a passion for great design and drive to deliver the perfect fit.

Their in-house product team work closely with their teamof seamstresses, pattern cutters and production houses to develop versatile wardrobeessentials designed to last for beyond the season.

Expect to find muted neutrals mixed with black, navy and whit with injection of "seasonal" colours of hazelnut and greenery.

Discover the new and swanky Gucci store at Raffles City which features just their latest timepieces and jewelry.

Timepieces and jewelry are produced by Gucci’s own skilled craftsmen: master watchmakers work in Gucci’s own ateliers in La Chaux-de-Fonds Switzerland, and goldsmiths create magnificent pieces in Italy. Each piece typically incorporates Gucci’s signature emblems, such as the Horsebit, marrying quality materials with inimitable Gucci flair.

In 1972, Gucci became one of the first fashion Houses to branch into timepieces, creating successful, iconic models that combined contemporary spirit and tradition, innovation and craftsmanship, fashion and elegance. Later, in 1997, the brand introduced a silver jewelry line, followed by Fine Jewelry and High Jewelry collections.

Further reinforcing Gucci’s reputation as an influential and progressive fashion brand, the new and contemporary vision injected by Creative Director Alessandro Michele fully embraces the fashion codes, innovation and contemporary attitude of the House, thereby further enhancing its status as one of the world’s most desirable luxury fashion brands and a definitive 21st century statement of contemporary coolness.

Grand and majestic, Royal Taj at The Barracks Hotel Singapore presents the sumptuous regal feast prepared with age-old recipes. Where the authentic flavours from the kitchens of different states in India will be a delight for everyone in the family.

Savour the finest Indian and International cuisines in a spacious and family-friendly ambience with an à la carte lunch fare and a generous dinner buffet.

Dine like royalty as you appreciate Indian culinary flavours endowed with a contemporary twist.

From vegetarian to non-vegetarian kebabs cooked to perfection in the traditional clay tandoor, Indian curries & bread and the all-time favourites ‘Butter Chicken’ and ‘Mutton Rogan Josh’, our menu caters to the palettes of everyone in the family.

Experience the elegant indoor dining experience with a warm attentive service as you immerse in the gourmet journey of the Royal Taj.

Visit www.royaltaj.sg to make a reservation today!

2 Gunner Lane, Palawan Ridge, Sentosa Island

Tel: +65 8456 8535 Email: sales@royaltaj.sg

Live the high life at 1-V:U, Southeast Asia’s Latest Rooftop Lifestyle Destination

Soak up the sun and celebrate every one of life’s moment at Sentosa island’s latest rooftop lifestyle destination, 1-V:U. Perched atop the roof of The Outpost Hotel, the premier day-to-night beachfront playground features a coastal-luxe Day Club and a smart-casual progressive Asian Restaurant helmed by Chef Ace Tan.

1-V:U leads the progression of South-East Asian beach club culture by being the first of many of its kind: It is the country’s first Day Club concept to occupy the entire rooftop of a luxury hotel property, as well as being Sentosa Island’s first and only rooftop vibe dining destination. Overlooking the Palawan Beach and stunning views of the Singapore Straits, 1-V:U elevates island party life from day to night with its exciting entertainment line-up of international and local DJs, creative culinary artistry and world-class bar program.

It is truly the perfect oasis for all sun-seekers and epicureans seeking an escape from the city.

Reinvigorate at their adult-exclusive Day Club, where vibrant entertainment and sleek dance sound meet breathtaking views.

1-V:U is an exquisite oasis for sun-seekers seeking an escape from the city bustle. With daily DJ sessions on deck bringing Deep House and Soulful beats all the way from day to night, 1-V:U is where it’s at for the endless summer vibes. Cool off with their signature cocktails in hand, dig into their dayclub bites and groove to poolside beats as you take in the unparalleled panorama of the island.

10 Artillery Avenue, Level 7 The Outpost Hotel, Sentosa Island

Tel: 65 6513 7708 Email: enquiries@1-vu.sg

GrabFood has unveiled their merchant solutions and 1st GrabKitchen in Singapore.

GrabFood commits to merchants’ growth through a merchant platform and launches GrabKitchen in Hillview with over 10 F&B brands, including 3 virtual restaurants and the latest GrabFood Hub.

Based on consumer surveys and insights derived from the Grab app, consumers in Northwest Singapore wanted greater variety of healthy foods, burgers and local foods. Specifically in Bukit Batok, bubble tea, mala, and soup were not only the most frequently searched for items on GrabFood, but also saw significantly higher consumer demand than merchant supply. When it comes to cuisine types, Japanese, Indian and Thai were the most sought after in the area.

To address this gap, GrabFood brought an eclectic mix of over 10 F&B brands into its first GrabKitchen in Singapore, offering a wide selection of food options. GrabKitchen features:

10 restaurants including three new virtual restaurants namely Lady Boss Mala by the founder of Thai Dynasty; Waboru by JR Group as well as Tiffin Walla by Co-Kitchens.
The 6th GrabFood Hub which brings popular hawker food, coveted FMCG and packaged food brands such as Asia Pacific Breweries’ Heineken and Tiger beers anddangerously addictive salted egg snacks by Irvins, which has taken Singapore and the larger Southeast Asia by storm.
Beverages by Playmade, one of Singapore’s bubble tea darlings who has made its first foray into the West with GrabKitchen.

Consumers in surrounding Hillview districts such as Cashew, Bukit Batok, Bukit Gombak and Toh Tuck can have food and drink options delivered on-demand to their door via the Grab app, while those who do not mind taking a short walk to GrabKitchen can opt to dine-in at the location or choose the self pickup option in-app to save on delivery fees. For variety, consumers can order from multiple GrabKitchen merchants in a single order so every one gets to have whatever tickles their fancy. Find out more about the launch og GrabKitchen here.

The newly-opened Citadines Balestier Singapore sits atop of 3 floors retail spaces which offers a wide array of amenities and services. From their cosy Studio apartment for the solo traveller, to their spacious one-bedroom apartment for a couple on the go, this centrally-located Singapore apartment hotel has the right apartments that set the tone for your stay.

Unwind in the outdoor swimming pool and mingle with friends at the Residents' Lounge. There is an outdoor fitness corner to tune your body clock from any jetlag. Children can have a fair share of their fun at the children's playground and water play area. You can also hold group gatherings at their barbecue pavilion and catch up with your friends and family.

Balestier is an eclectic neighbourhood in Singapore that offers everything from a rich bowl of local laksa noodles at the nearby Whampoa Hawker Centre to a cup of latte art and soy cappuccino along the shopping belt on Orchard Road.

Take a quick 15-minute walk to the nearby Novena hub for your groceries and amenities. The Newton MRT Station is a short bus ride away and connects you to the Central Business District and the Marina Bay area.

207 Balestier Road

Tel: +65 6434 8888 Email: enquiry.singapore@the-ascott.com

The Singapore Buddhist Lodge on Kim Yam Road has recently celebrated its 85th anniversary with the opening of a new worship hall and the consecration of a golden Buddha statue.

The Singapore Buddhist Lodge was first known as The Singapore Buddhist Sutra Distribution Center. Following a series of expansion preparations, The Singapore Buddhist Lodge was established in 17 June 1934. After which the Lodge continues to expand, and charitable programmes are added to benefit all good friends of the public.

17 to 19 Kim Yam Road

Tel: +65 6737 2630 Email: sbl@sbl.org.sg

Nothing can compare to the gift of life. Nothing should compare to how we receive it. Described as Singapore’s first pre- and postpartum care retreat, Kai Suites on Dunearn Road is like a five-star hotel that offer amenities and services which will pamper new moms.

A stay at this luxury confinement centre doesn't come cheap. A standard package will set you back around S$12,000.

With only 18 suites and 80 staff on the premises, every enrolled mum and baby at Kai Suites is assured of the professional care needed during their stay. Visit their official website here to register your interest.

Maryling is an Italian brand that provides premium ready-to-wear collections at accessible price points to accommodate the multi-faceted lifestyle of the modern woman.

Founded in 2010, Maryling pays tribute to modern femininity with elegant, highly covetable collections. Through the pairing of luxurious, high quality fabrics and cutting-edge design technology, Maryling encompasses effortless style for the modern women.

Located off Gambas Avenue, Sembawang Hot Spring Park features new cascading pools and a water collection point, enhanced accessibility for wheelchair users, and educational panels where visitors can learn about Singapore’s only hot spring park’s history and geology. The park's rustic environment, reminiscent of old kampungs, also holds many collective memories for the community.

Visitors can enjoy the new Floral Walk and see fruit trees and edible plants commonly found in kampungs, and flowers commonly seen in the 1960s and 1990s. The rustic environment is further enhanced by unpaved paths and naturalised streams flowing from the hot spring, which mimics the freshwater swamp forest landscape. There are seating areas sheltered by planted trellises featuring flowering creepers such as the Elephant Climber (Argyreia nervosa). The public can also learn more about the history of the site and geothermal processes behind the formation of a hot spring through interpretative signs at locations of interest.

Gambas Avenue, Sembawang Hot Spring Park

Tel: 1800 - 471 7300 Email: nparks_public_affairs@nparks.gov.sg

Designed by renowned architect John Portman, who transformed the interior spaces of hotels by creating atriums with a cinematic, soaring experience, the 32-year-old Marina Mandarin is now known as PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay, having been rebranded by property group United Industrial Corporation (UIC)

The property will be refreshed with a new look and identity as it joins the Pan Pacific Hotels Group portfolio of nearly 50 hotels, resorts and serviced suites globally.

Renovation to PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay will be done in phases from early-2020 to mid-2021 to the hotel’s public spaces, guestrooms, and meeting facilities to transform this Marina Bay landmark into a statement “garden in the hotel” with curated lush landscapes and stylish interiors.

Ms Cinn Tan, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Pan Pacific Hotels Group, says, “We are celebrating the latest addition of PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay to our Pan Pacific Hotels Group family with a launch offer that exemplifies the sincere hospitality we are known for. We want our guests to feel supported whenever they travel, whether for work or play, and have invested thought and heart into this special promotion, which comes with a selection of personalised benefits. This is because we believe in giving our guests the flexibility to choose what they would enjoy best, so they can make the most of their stay with us. It is our confidence that the guests of PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay will experience the excellence in product and service that have led to us being awarded “Best Regional Hotel Chain” for three years running by readers in Asia Pacific.”

Enjoying an excellent location in the heart of the city, PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay offers a breathtaking view of the Marina Bay and financial district, as well as convenient access to the Marina Square Shopping Mall, and is minutes away from Sands Expo & Convention Center and Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Directly opposite The Esplanade, Singapore’s performing arts centre, the hotel is also within walking distance to attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Flyer, and is perfectly situated right on the trackside of the Singapore Grand Prix Formula One race.

6 Raffles Boulevard

Tel: +65 6845 1000 Email: enquiry.prsmb@parkroyalhotels.com

A French and Spanish brand for babies, kids and grown-ups, Nobodinoz has set-up their Singapore flagship outlet at Forum The Shopping Mall.

Check out their range of sustainable, modern and eco-friendly furniture, crafted with high-quality materials you can trust for generations to come. Timeless designs to enrich your child's development at every age.

Founded by Murielle and Roman Bressan in 2012, their inspiration is to make beautiful products suitable for every room in the family’s house and for everyday life, aimed at stimulating kids’ development.

Nobodinoz carefully follow and manage each stage of the production, respecting a sustainable, eco-friendly process. Their fabrics are woven, dyed and printed in Barcelona, exclusively for Nobodinoz. The baby products are made of organic cotton as well. Nobodinoz is an OEKOTEX® class 1 certified Brand.

Nobodinoz's toys, cushions, beds and mattresses combine to create a cosy, inspiring space that gives your little one room to explore the world yet take time for themselves on their own terms.

World’s First Storytelling Bags & Wallets.

Gnome & Bow at Millenia Walk was founded on the notion that bags can go beyond functionality to become a new medium for storytelling. As with reading a book for the first time, exploring their products will uncover subtle and clever details that reveal a story you’ll find familiar, but with a modern twist.

Drawing inspiration from the classics to tales of fancy, they develop story elements that are imbued seamlessly into their goods. As with reading a book for the first time, exploring their products will uncover subtle and clever details that reveal a story you’ll find familiar, but with a modern twist.

Timeless as the stories that inspire them,they believe that their bags should be too. Discover their world of storytelling goods.

9 Raffles Boulevard, Unit #01-78 Millenia Walk

Email: greetings@gnomenbow.com

If you live in or near Bukit Gombak and love gardening, you can apply for 70 allotment gardening plots at the new Bukit Gombak Park which will be opened in early 2020. Applications will be open for online application from 5 January 2020, 10am to 19 January 2020, 10pm. The park is located at Bukit Batok West Avenue 5, opposite Bukit Batok Driving Centre. Plots will be allocated by computerised balloting.

To foster a love for gardening, NParks introduced the Allotment Gardening Scheme as part of their Community in Bloom (CIB) programme. CIB is a nationwide gardening movement which aims to bring together residents, young and old, in creating community gardens. With Allotment Gardens situated near HDB residential estates, these plots are widely accessible to the community. Today, more than 1,000 allotment gardening plots have been introduced in 11 parks islandwide.

Find out more about application details and the allotment gardening scheme at www.nparks.gov.sg/gardening/allotment-gardens

The new Supertree Observatory, in addition to OCBC Skyway, provides greater accessibility for visitors to enjoy scenic views of the Marina Bay area and the lush surroundings of Gardens by the Bay.

Located at the canopy of the tallest Supertree at Supertree Grove, visitors can soak in unblocked cityscape views at our open-air rooftop deck, enjoy light refreshments and try out immersive digital learning experiences inside the observatory space.

The open-air rooftop deck is the highest point at 50m above ground, and offers visitors an unblocked 360° view of the surroundings.

The observatory space located one level below the rooftop deck consists of an indoor area with full-height glass windows, as well as a peripheral outdoor walkway. Here, visitors can also experience a message about the effects of climate change creatively conveyed through digital media.

Cap your day off with some light refreshments at Supertree Observatory Cafe, while you relax and enjoy magnificent views of the city skyline! A variety of refreshments such as cocktails, mocktails, soft drinks and light snacks, are available on the menu.

18 Marina Gardens Drive, Gardens by the Bay

Tel: +65 6420 6848 Email: feedback@gardensbythebay.com.sg

Where people live and laugh, connect and collaborate. Where one and all come together. This is Sekisui House, Sino Group and Far East Organization’s vision of the new One Holland Village mixed-use development. Read on to discover how this vision is being realised.

A new development is rising – bringing together the energy of a city and the warmth of a village. Introducing a single location that blends the old and the new; urban landscape and lush greenery; residences, serviced residences, shops and offices.

The refreshed, and re-energised Holland Village will be a living, vibrant community where people gather to live, play, work, eat, and shop – the Village brings everyone and everything together as one.

One Holland Village weaves a new language from the common threads that make the neighbourgood so special. Drawing inspiration from Holland Village's architecture, streetscape, and low-rise shophouses, this development will create a live-work-play environment that will bring the community together as one.

Building a new development within the low-rise enclave of Holland Village requires boldness and sensitivity. Rather than an imposing structure towering over the neighbourhood, One Holland Village blends seamlessly into the distinct's informal landscape, an extension of the neighbourhood's stoned walls. Its architecture carefully references the basic building blocks of the neighbourhood - the iconic shophouses and irregular strreets. The result is a distinctive landmark that enriches the existing Holland Village community and urban fabric.

1 Holland Village Way

Email: hollandvillage@fareast.com.sg

Introducing TFG London at Paragon, a boutique which carries fashion brands Hobbs, Phase Eight, Whistles and Damsel in a Dress, all under one roof.

TFG London is owned by The Foschini Group Limited (TFG), a leading publicly listed South African retail group. TFG first entered the UK market through the acquisition of the premium womenswear brand Phase Eight in January 2015, forming TFG London. Since then premium womenswear brands Whistles, Hobbs, Damsel in a Dress and Studio 8 have been added to the Group, positioning TFG London as the owner of some of the most successful premium and affordable luxury womenswear brands in the UK.

Damsel in a Dress offers directional design for modern, confident women who know exactly what they want to wear.

Hobbs offers understated British style to smart, busy women. Since its launch in London in 1981, Hobbs has grown from a small shoe label to a brand synonymous with the best of British design, with exquisite craftsmanship and pin-sharp attention to detail intrinsic to the Hobbs brand.

Phase Eight is a premium, design-led womenswear brand established in London in 1979, offering contemporary day and occasionwear collections, with a focus on quality fabrics and exclusive designs. Since launching internationally in 2012, the brand has rapidly expanded to include over 200 stores and concessions across 24 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.

Whistles is a contemporary fashion brand, based in London. A shopping destination for the busy, dynamic woman, Whistles create timeless pieces with an intelligent sense of design. Collections are considered, wearable and yet distinct, with true seven days a week appeal, crafted to fit effortlessly into modern life.

Home specialist mc2 is proud to announce the expansion of its smart blind gallery, from 4,200 sqft to now 7,000 sqft. The gallery offers an exciting retail experience, with an advanced smart living experience as well as Singapore’s first-ever indoor display of full-size Renson outdoor blinds. Along with the launch of its newly revamped gallery, mc2 has also launched the full range of ALTEX indoor blinds and curtains. In addition, mc2 will be bringing in premium furniture, designer fabrics as well as the solutions of renowned electronics giants, sound and lighting brands and many more.

mc2 is set to revolutionise outdoor-blind shopping with the Renson Outdoor Blinds Experience Centre. This experience centre is equipped not only with a full suite of Renson outdoor blinds solutions, but also with a coloured LED illuminated ceiling that can display over 200,000 colour hues. The ceiling can simulate different weather conditions, from sunshine to rain and even thunderstorm, complete with sound effects.

Now, customers can experience how Renson Camargue’s, Lapure’s, Aero’s, Linarte’s, Algarve’s series of outdoor retractable blinds will function during different types of weather.

Customers can also experience the concept of a smart home right at the ALTEX Solution Centre. mc2 has collaborated with renowned brands such as Philips Hue, Samsung, Somfy, and Sonos to bring in voice-enabled smart-home devices. From curtains to blinds, glass films to home appliances such as air conditioners, TVs, speakers, lighting, and robotic vacuum cleaners, these devices can be synced with Google Assistant. A simple command such as “Hey Google, I’m home” and the smart-home ecosystem will automatically activate the lights, speakers, television, air-conditioning and curtains. Homeowners can also preset their preferences and the controls will automatically change the ambience of the room — say “movie time” or “I’m going to bed” and the lights will dim, and the curtains will draw.

33 Ubi Avenue 3, Unit #01-28 VERTEX

Tel: +65 6634 7333 Email: info@mc2.com.sg

Extra Space A sia has opened its 10th facility in Toa Payoh. Extra Space Asia is the region’s dominant operator in self-storage solutions. Founded in 2007, their first facility in Singapore changed the way people live and work, by providing professionally managed services, state-of-the-art security, and round-the-clock accessibility for customers to live bigger and better lives.

Today, Extra Space Asia has 44 facilities across Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan and Japan.

You don’t have to live a cluttered life! Extra Space Asia provides you with the option to de-clutter your home and enjoy the lifestyle you have always wanted. With self-storage facilities conveniently located throughout Singapore, you can access your items whenever you like and at your convenience. Need a place to store your precious collectibles? Clearing the way for a new home? They have the space for you.

11 Lorong 3 Toa Payoh, Block D

Tel: +65 6771 3100 Email: info@extraspaceasia.com

Started in 1998 selling only the original All Chocolate cake, Awfully Chocolate has grown from one indie store into a group of shops, cafes and restaurants bearing love for dark chocolate.

Opening just in time for Christmas, the newly renovated store at Raffles City is now twice the size, and has expanded to carry their exclusive Premium Gifting Collection! In addition to their fresh cakes, truffles and ice cream, customers can now walk in to sample and purchase their artisanal chocolate bars, gourmet cookies and beautifully packaged gift sets all year round! Get your favourite chocolate cakes and gifts at Singapore's Favourite Chocolate gift store today!

252 North Bridge Road, Unit #B1-52 & 53 Raffles City

Tel: +65 6338 3527 Email: cakes@awfullychocolate.com

Shang Xia, the celebrated luxury brand backed by Hermès, has arrived in Singapore. Visit Shang Xia at Takashimaya to experience contemporary Chinese design, made with exquisite craftsmanship.

The Shang Xia brand, established jointly by the world famous designer Jiang Qiong Er and France's Hermès Group, celebrates a contemporary fine living lifestyle.

“As above, as below”, the name of Shang Xia is simple but profound. It represents the oriental philosophy pursued by China in its long history, which links tradition and the present, Oriental and West, human and nature — a symmetrical, balanced beauty between seemingly diametric poles.

Shang Xia believes that both time and emotion can be embodied in objects. It has created an artistic ensemble of furniture, homeware, apparel, leather goods, jewelry, accessories, and tea set that is centered on home and represents a perfect melding of tradition with modernity.

Shang Xia expects to bridge the gap between the tangible and the intangible, tradition and present. The brand will continue to use its distinctive combination of contemporary design with exquisite hand craftsmanship, Chinese culture, and the highest quality standards to champion the dazzling grace of everyday modern life.

Embark on a journey to the east, along the Pasir Ris Heritage Trail. This trail is indeed an adventure to take, with its name derived from the Malay words ‘pasir’ and ‘hiris’ which mean ‘sand’ and ‘to slice or shred’. Go beyond the surface, as you uncover the golden memories and historic heritage of this happening place.

Plan your adventure here: roots.sg/pasir-ris-heritage-trail

Go on this trail as you explore the history and heritage of Pasir Ris through the stories of the people who have lived, worked and played here, as well as the institutions they have built over the decades.

Explore the Suggested Short Trail Routes:

Coastal Heritage, 3.5km: 1 hour on foot; 30 mins on bicycle
Play @Pasir Ris, 4.5km: 1 hour on foot
Architectural Highlights, 5.6km: 1.5 hours on foot

You can download the Pasir Ris Heritage Trail Booklet and the Pasir Ris Heritage Trail Map - in English.

Carhartt Work In Progress (Carhartt WIP) forms a division of the American brand Carhartt, one of the first companies to pioneer workwear in the USA. Founded in Europe in 1989, 100 years after Hamilton Carhartt established his business in Detroit, Carhartt WIP offers a selection of workwear apparel, tailored for a new audience while still respecting the values of the brand:quality, comfort and durability.

Since the beginning, Carhartt WIP have built a strong, organic relationship with unknown, inspiring, provocative and upcoming figures in music and sport, becoming an iconic and well respected brand in underground scenes, from hip-hop, skate to graffiti.

The Barracks Hotel Sentosa is now open to greet and host guests from Singapore and all around the world. Once an old artillery barrack, now refurbished as a hotel. While The Barracks Hotel Sentosa may be rich in history, but the stories of tomorrow are yours to write.

Once a military outpost in 1904, this heritage building has been meticulously restored as The Barracks Hotel Sentosa. The Barracks Hotel Sentosa takes guests back to a cherished time of romance and charm, offering exquisite service with attention to every detail, and an overall timeless experience. Luxury of space is evident in its 40 well-designed guestrooms and suites. The décor is sophisticated and elegant, befitting of the hotel’s colonial past.

Set amidst the tranquillity and privacy of the heritage buildings, an exclusive pool provides the idyllic setting for guests to take a dip or lounge with a classic cocktail. The rooms on the ground level have direct access to the pool and semi-private jacuzzi at The Barracks Hotel Sentosa.

2 Gunner Lane, Palawan Ridge, Sentosa Island

Tel: +65 6722 0802 Email: info.tbh@fareast.com.sg

Japanese streetwear brand Íxi:z, makes a comeback 40 years in the making.

INDIVIDUALLY BASIC – a tagline not seen in Singapore since the early 1980s, where it was closely affiliated with Japanese streetwear brand Íxi: z (pronounced ick-sees). Four decades on, Íxi:z is making an unprecedented comeback with a retail store now open at Mandarin Gallery, and an official launch to be announced in early 2020.

Those who grew up in the 80s will fondly remember Íxi:z as an iconic brand which once encompassed everything from bomber jackets to wallets and pencil cases.Revitalizing a brand and reshaping it for the consumers of today is no small task. But as the saying goes, class never goes out of style, and by keeping the familiar elements of the brand intact, the team behind Íxi:z are confident it will once again capture the imagination of a whole new generation of streetwear enthusiasts. Manufactured in Japan to ensure quality, Íxi:z prides itself on a bold, measured approach to high-end streetwear. Understated, minimalist, and highly individualistic, their core values still fit neatly in today’s world 40 years after their inception.

A holistic sanctuary offering pampering spa experiences and renewed well-being to both hotel guests and members of the public, the new Raffles Spa is located in the revitalised Raffles Arcade and hidden in the glam of the iconic Grande Dame. Go on a rejuvenating journey with the Raffles Spa's array of authentic body and facial treatments, amidst a luxurious setting.

The new Raffles Spa features an elegant harmony of varying grey and golden-brown shades, creating an opulent yet serene ambience. Guests will get to enjoy unique restorative treatments, including a hydrothermal experience, authentic Raffles spa journeys inspired by Asian wellness philosophy, signature massages and bespoke facial treatments that can be customised to meet individual needs.

Raffles Spa also offers various spa facilities that can cater to different needs. Guests can choose to relax with their friends at The Gem, a standalone suite and private area suitable for up to four people, with its own treatment room and facilities that is perfect for private treatments and special celebrations; or one of the six soothing and spacious treatment rooms, consisting of five single rooms and one intimate couple room, a haven of tranquillity and wellness.

They can unwind and indulge their senses at the Aromatic Steam Room, refresh at the Spa’s Ice Fountain and immerse in total relaxation at the Sauna or the Vitality Pool in between treatments. The Spa also features premium and separate lounges for ladies and gentlemen, allowing each guest to sit back and enjoy a private and quiet time for relaxation.

328 North Bridge Road, Unit #01-35, Raffles Arcade

Tel: +65 6337 1886 Email: singapore@Raffles.com

TPG is the new force in the Singapore telecommunications market. They’re new to Singapore, but they’re not new to providing customers with mobile services that are reliable, fast and cost effective. Go visit them at Orchard Central to find out more about the TPG service trial plan, to collect your TPG SIM cards or to check out the latest mobile phones.

Common Man Coffee Roasters has established their first brand-new standalone CMCR Barista Academy on Chin Swee Road, between the bustling neighbourhoods of Chinatown and Robertson Quay.

As a brand, Common Man has grown its offerings over the years, from delivering quality café experiences to cementing its place as a coffee industry leader and championing sustainability in all areas of the business.

The academy now boasts its own full-fledged 1,100 sqft space, with floor-to-ceiling glass panels along the side, allowing ample natural light to stream in. The academy space which was formerly a printing shop, has maintained elements of its industrial aesthetic that characterises the heritage block surrounding it. CMCR's signature selection of Loveramics ceramic-ware line the wooden and brass shelves up front, alongside a comfortable seating area for guests to relax, while classes take place in the training toom at the back. The academy will serve both wholesale accounts and public consumers alike, offering both groups CMCR's industry-leading barista training.

From aspiring baristas to seasonsed professionals looking to fine tune their craft, CMCR Barista Academy offers a variety of courses. The curriculum taught at CMCR Barista Academy was developed alongside the Australian Barista Academy, and fosters real-world, quantifiable understanding on a full range of barista skills and knowledge, teaching students how to implement their new understanding in a café environment. Knowledge of proper dosing, reading and interpreting colour changes in extraction, milk splitting, pouring techniques and machine maintenance are just some of the skills that students can expect to take away from the courses. Find out more here.

52 Chin Swee Road, Unit #03-71

Email: training@cmcroasters.com

Finally FILA has landed on the most thriving retail and lifestyle point at Marina Bay Sands! Visit their new store for this season's fashionable and versatile active wear.

From its humble beginnings in Biella, Italy in 1911 to its historic introduction of colour on the tennis court in 1973, FILA has always believed that beyond activity, sport is an ever-expanding identity fuelled by passions for excellence, adventure, competition and pleasure. Over the last half-century, the brand has been there for iconic moments to accompany extraordinary individuals in the pursuit of true sport – those who courageously challenge limits and defy expectations through a seamless combination of power and grace. With a philosophy of innovation and a commitment to performance and style, FILA continues to make a statement with styles that are novel in aesthetic, effective in function and as bold and breakthrough as its wearers.

Contemporary French cuisine brasserie Poulet has opened a new concept by the name of Poulet + Brasserie, at ION Orchard offering all-day breakfast that combine local flavours with French cooking techniques.

Their signature rotisserie chicken and prepared-to-perfection duck confit will keep you going back for more.

The National Parks Board (NParks) has opened the 5.4-hectare Cyclist Park, a new recreational space at East Coast Park. Featuring a longer view corridor of the marina vista, Cyclist Park boasts two new cycling circuits targeted at learners and experienced cyclists, a nature playgarden and F&B and retail outlets for families.

Located at Area D of East Coast Park, at the previous site of Goldkist Chalets, Cyclist Park is an active node, complementing the tranquillity of the nearby Raintree Cove that opened earlier this year. A one-stop hub for cyclists, visitors can practise cycling techniques at the two cycling circuits, as well as purchase and repair bicycles. It is also a stop along the Round Island Route (RIR).

The two circuits - the Learner Circuit and Advanced Circuit - are conducive spaces for cyclists to hone their skills. Beginners can attempt the 280-metre long Learner Circuit, where gentle slopes, large expanse of flat areas, and a mini BMX adventure trail help improve balance and stamina. The 500-metre long Advanced Circuit, with its undulating tracks, sharp turns, gradual granite steps and narrow bridge, provides a fun challenge for more experienced cyclists.

Open plazas with multiple entry points have replaced what was once the gated Goldkist Chalets and visitors can now enjoy unobstructed views of the sea. Visitors who seek a more tranquil experience can soak in the coastal ambience while lounging on terrazzo benches under the shelter of ketapang (Terminalia catappa L.) and handkerchief trees (Maniltoa browneoides). There are also two F&Bs, one convenience retail store and a bicycle retail shop that also run bicycle related workshops as well as repair services.

Families with children can enjoy a new nature playgarden at East Coast Park within the Cyclist Park. The playgarden uses natural materials such as upcycled wood to create curated play features for children to engage in spontaneous play amid nature. Young ones can develop a sense of discovery and train their balance at the simple obstacle course, and older children can try their hand at the 1.5-metre tall mini climbing wall installed with grips, that was fashioned from a log.

The opening of Cyclist Park marks the completion of the second of three phases in the rejuvenation of East Coast Park, which aims to create more open spaces and vistas of the sea, improve accessibility and enhance amenities. This follows the successful reopening of Raintree Cove earlier this year. The enhancement will be completed in 2020 with the opening of Big Splash.

Cyclist Park is located at East Coast Park Area D and is accessible via East Coast Park Service Road, via the underpass linking Mandarin Gardens to D3 Carpark and via Siglap Park Connector. The nearest bus stop is 90 metres away and is served by bus number 401.

Immerse yourself in a scent-sory experience unlike any other with Escentials. Find notable brands such as NYC favourite D.S. & DURGA, avant-garde perfumer Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle and luxury fragrance and cosmetics by By Kilian and much more.

Escentials focus on artisanal offerings, where an exceptional beauty selection from around the world awaits discovery. They are dedicated to new age experiential consumers, and promise to stimulate one’s senses beyond that of the scent in mind.

Qantas has officially opened its newest First Lounge, a luxury space spread over 1,000 sqm at Singapore’s Changi Airport.

The new First Lounge will operate in tandem alongside the airline’s existing International Business Lounge, providing capacity for 240 customers and a bespoke offering for Qantas’ First Class passengers and top tier frequent flyers.

The new build was designed by Australian designer David Caon in collaboration with Kelvin Ho of architecture and design firm Akin Atelie and features a number of Singaporean influences across the look and feel of the lounge as well as the food and beverage offering.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the opening of the new lounge is a reflection of the airline’s extensive premium investment in the region.

“Since our A380 flights have returned to Singapore, we’ve seen an increase in demand for premium travel which has also translated to an increase in the number of travellers enjoying our lounge hospitality.

“This is our fourth Qantas First Lounge, and each time we build an entire new lounge facility from scratch, we speak to our frequent flyers to get a better understanding of how customers like to spend their time in the lounge and tailor it accordingly. Our customers told us their key priorities when travelling through or from Singapore is space to relax and do some last-minute work, a quick shower, and a meal before departure so they can maximise their sleep onboard.”

An open kitchen will serve up a Rockpool a la carte seasonal menu designed with Singapore’s vibrant dining culture in mind.

The lounge also features a cocktail bar with lounge seating, serving French champagne, seasonal spritzes, unique cocktails inspired by Singapore, like a Calamansi Mojito – made from the local Calamansi fruit, Singaporean and Australian beer – and a variety of Australian wine. View Singapore First Lounge Menu here.

Non-alcoholic healthy beverages such as kefir and kombucha, barley water and a Rockpool ‘House Lemonade’ are available, along with all day barista service with Vittoria coffee and a selection of savoury bar snacks and fruit.

Wellness continues to be a major inspiration and the new Qantas First Lounge brings the outside in. Live greenery features throughout the lounge to soften the space and bolster the atmosphere, while the use of natural materials and colour palettes is designed to help relax customers.

A unique faux ‘skylight’ in the shower suites and lounge area will replicate natural daylight and help adjust the body clock as customers transition through multiple time zones.

Business travellers have the choice to work in an open, communal setting or individual lounge chairs with high dividers. USB and charging ports are located throughout the lounge, with wireless printing, Wi-Fi and TV screens for customers to stay charged and connected.

The new premium space is Qantas’ fourth First Lounge across its global network, joining Sydney, Melbourne, and Los Angeles. The opening is part of the multi-million-dollar investment for customers on its Singapore services and complements the expanded Qantas International Business lounge at Changi, which combined now offers seating for more than 800 customers.

Climate change is anticipated to worsen the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue. It facilitates the spread of mosquito vectors, viruses and epidemics. There is thus a need to continually innovate and design sustainable solutions to deal with these environmental public health challenges. Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) has established a new, highly automated facility that will allow researchers to eventually increase their production capacity of Wolbachia-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes by more than 10-fold, compared to its previous production facility.

This boost in capacity is critical for NEA’s plans to scale up Project Wolbachia – Singapore, in preparation for future deployment of the novel vector control technology. The new facility, located at Techplace II in Ang Mo Kio, was officially opened on 2 December 2019 by Dr. Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources (MEWR).

NEA’s Project Wolbachia involves the release of male Wolbachia-Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to suppress the urban Aedes aegypti mosquito population. Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of dengue, chikungunya and Zika in Singapore. When the released male Wolbachia-Aedes aegypti mosquitoes mate with urban female Aedes aegyptimosquitoes that do not carry Wolbachia, the resulting eggs do not hatch. Over time, continued releases of male Wolbachia-Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are expected to bring about a gradual reduction in the urban Aedes aegypti mosquito population, and hence lower the risk of dengue transmission. Read more about this project here.

Sushi Plus at Bugis Junction is a new contemporary sushi dining concept by Sushi Express that redefines the conventional conveyor belt sushi with state-of-art technology integration. By delicately balancing quality with affordability, Sushi Plus aims to be the pinnacle of casual dining for Japanese cuisine.

Melvita is the #1 clean beauty brand from France's Ardeche region, made with many years of expertise in natural and organic ingredients. Melvita is committed to creating better skin care, doing better for the environment and doing better for those in need.

Singapore’s pre-schoolers will soon be able to benefit from the latest breakthrough in MindChamps’ revolutionary global model of education.

MindChamps has collaborated with one of Australia’s top theatre schools, Actors Centre Australia (ACA), which is the alma mater of Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman, in a world-first initiative to boost the advantages of its 3-Mind education model by adding to the curriculum the extra elements of acting, singing and dance.

The first MindChamps Performing Arts Preschool in Orchard Road was announced in Singapore by MindChamps’ Founder CEO and Executive Chairman, David Chiem, and ACA’s Founding CEO, Dean Carey.

The MindChamps Performing Arts Preschool will open in the new school year.

Website: www.mindchamps .org

Dyson has chosen the iconic St James Power Station to be the address for its new global headquarters in Singapore. The new HQ will include research laboratories and enable the company to double its pool of engineers and scientists in Singapore over the next five years.

Dyson has announced earlier this year that it will be moving its HQ out of the United Kingdom to Asia.

Located near VivoCity, St James Power Station is most remembered as a nightlife hot spot until it ceased operations in September last year. Mapletree will work in partnership with Dyson for restoration of St James Power Station and upgrading of facilities.

Website: www.dyson.com.sg

Founded in 1975, Giorgio Armani has become world famous for its unique and unmistakable image, as well as its clean, sophisticated designs, complete with superior quality materials and timeless elegance; these elements have been associated with the brand since its launch.

Having achieved the world’s top sales record amongst their hundred stores globally, Taiwanese fried chicken emporium owned by celebrity Nono - Monga, is excited to launch their second outlet in ION Orchard Mall this November. To embrace festive cheer, Monga will also be rolling out their special Christmas-edition flavour, the Fiery Chicken Fillet, for a limited time only.

The new Mexican flavour, priced at S$7.90 per fillet, will be exclusively available only during this Christmas. Sure to sate the appetite of fried chicken lovers, this fiery chicken fillet is first deep-fried and then covered with Mexican sauce before it is baked for two-minutes. The Mexican sauce is a secret formulation curated in-house with tomatoes, jalapenos, chillies, onions, and pepper, giving the snack bursting flavours that are sour and mildly spicy at the same. This distinctively red sauce coincides with the eponymous colour of Christmas. Available only from December 1st till 26th, this will be a time-limited flavour in both ION and JEM.

By 2023, national servicemen will be able to access all their National Service (NS)- and training-related activities in a one-stop centre.

The NS Hub just marked the start of construction in a groundbreaking ceremony officiated by Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen recently.

With the NS Hub, national servicemen will no longer have to report to various camps across Singapore for different NS services.

The new NS Hub will house the Central Manpower Base (CMPB), Military Medicine Institute (MMI) and a new Fitness Conditioning Centre (FCC) to meet all the services that pre-enlistees and Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) need.

It will even include an e-Mart for NSmen to stock up on their combat boots and admin t-shirts!

Currently, pre-enlistees attend medical screening at CMPB at Depot Road, and head to MMI in Kent Ridge for other specialist medical services. NSmen take their Individual Physical Proficiency Tests (IPPTs) at various locations such as Maju Camp and Bedok Camp.

Once complete, the NS Hub will be directly accessible via an overhead bridge from Cashew MRT Station along Upper Bukit Timah Road.

Gone are the long queues to "book in", as national servicemen visiting the NS Hub will be able to register themselves at e-Kiosks equipped with facial recognition technology. They will also be able to perform digital transactions through the NS Hub visitor mobile app and receive personalised responses about their appointments. Such technology is expected to reduce the overall waiting time for medical screenings by 30 per cent!

IPPT will be made more convenient for servicemen. Without having to "book in" to camp, servicemen will be able to do automated In-Processing at the NS Hub’s FCC. They can then simply walk up to the gym for their IPPT Preparatory Training or head to the sheltered running track to take their IPPT. Facing the Rail Corridor, the FCC will be the Singapore Armed Forces’ first purpose-built, all-weather facility for IPPT and fitness training.

Not unlike SAFRA Clubhouses, the NS Hub may well become a go-to spot for national servicemen to relax with their family and friends. The hub will feature a wide range of amenities that are open to the public – these include a food court, a childcare center and an outdoor community area with a running track and football field. For those into live entertainment, the NS Hub will also house the Power 98 Love Songs and 88.3JIA radio stations where visitors can catch their favourite radio DJs live on air. There will also be studios for the public to catch performances.

Visitors to the new NS Hub will be glad to know that the building will make use of renewable energy – energy generated from its solar panels can power more than 110 4-room HDB units a year! The building will also adopt energy-saving solutions such as the use of natural ventilation and solar shades for cooling. The NS Hub will make use of rainwater harvesting to collect non-potable water for irrigation and other purposes.

Website: www.mindef.gov.sg

Rabeanco was created in 1992 out of its founders' passion for leather craftsmanship and their desire to make luxurious accessories widely accessible. Each and every Rabeanco bag is constructed on the individual strength, grain and flexibility of the finest leathers. ingeniously balancing form and function. the result is vibrantly coloured and richly textured collections that perfectly complement the contemporary wardrobe, fulfilling the desire for accessories that are versatile, stylish and personal that every woman can find the perfect affordable luxury bag to suit every mood and occasion.

AKINN is a fashion label that takes inspiration from the stories of individuals and the industry at large with every collection. By combining exceptional craftsmanship, timeless design, and inspiring stories, AKINN aims to cultivate responsible consumption with apparels to go beyond trends or seasons.

Looking ahead, their vision is to build a collaborative design platform that goes beyond fashion. They hope to bring together Singapore-based creatives and craftsmen from other design disciplines to co-create exquisite pieces that befit the sophisticated tastes of design-savvy individuals.

AKINN is the brainchild of Wykidd Song, a renowned Singapore designer most known for co-founding fashion label Song+Kelly, the first Singapore RTW brand sold internationally (Harrods, Selfridges, Barneys New York, and more). Wykidd’s impressive portfolio includes menswear design, as well as successful roles as design director for various brands across the region.

City Developments Limited (CDL), CapitaLand Limited (CapitaLand) and Ascott Residence Trust (Ascott Reit) have teamed up to redevelop the Liang Court into an integrated development following the proposed sale by CDL Hospitality Trusts (CDLHT) of its total interest in Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay, subject to the approval of CDLHT’s unitholders at its extraordinary general meetings, to the 50:50 CDL-CapitaLand joint venture entities and CDL. Concurrently, Ascott Reit will sell part of its interest in Somerset Liang Court Singapore2 to CDL.

Subject to approval from the relevant authorities, the proposed integrated development with a total gross floor area of 100,263 sqm will comprise two residential towers offering around 700 apartment units, a commercial component, a hotel and a serviced residence with a hotel licence. Upon completion, the 50:50 CDL-CapitaLand joint venture entities will own the residential and commercial components while Ascott Reit will own the 192-unit serviced residence with a hotel licence. CDLHT will own the hotel, which will have about 460 to 475 rooms4, under a forward purchase agreement with CDL5. The hotel will be operated under the Moxy brand by Marriott International while the serviced residence will retain its Somerset branding. The proposed integrated development is targeted to open in phases from 2024. Read more about this announcement here.

Sennheiser's second Brand Store has opened at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Go down and experience their Orpheus HE 1, the world's most expensive headphones (guess how much!). Also, get first-hand experience with the AMBEO Soundbar which provides an unforgettable 3D home theatre experience.

Sennheiser is shaping the future of audio – a vision built on over 70 years of innovation and a dedication to excellence. Based in Wedemark near Hanover, Germany, Sennheiser is a family-owned company and one of the world's leading manufacturers of headphones, microphones and wireless transmission systems.

Liverpool FC fans here can look forward to the English football club’s first official Singapore store which is set to open at Bugis Junction next month.

Fans can buy official Liverpool FC merchandise such as exclusive fashion clothing and unique souvenirs from the new store.

Follow their Instagram page here for any updates.

Come out and play at Bobbi Brown's new flagship store at ION Orchard.

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics is a global prestige beauty brand that empowers women to embrace and enhance their individual beauty. Founded in 1991 by makeup-artist-turned-entrepreneur Bobbi Brown, the brand offers universally flattering products created with uncompromising quality and an intuitive sense of what every woman wants: to look and feel like herself, only prettier and more confident.

Beauty begins with you. When the brand was founded, this was their vision—and they champion it today. They make products that enhance, not hide, your true beauty, from undertone-correct foundation shades to a true-beauty-enhancing range of eye, cheek and lip makeup - plus skincare that delivers a natural, fresh complexion.

LASALLE College of the Arts will develop a new building adjacent to its existing campus.

The Ngee Ann Kongsi donated S$50 million to LASALLE College of the Arts – their largest-ever, single donation to date – to develop a new building for the College.

The new 12-storey building will be named The Ngee Ann Kongsi Building. It will be built on a plot of land earmarked for LASALLE, adjacent to the existing campus on McNally Street and connected to Rochor MRT station. The new unified campus is envisioned to have a glass façade that opens into the vibrant thoroughfare of Rochor Canal Road. The announcement of the new building caps off a memorable year for LASALLE, which saw the College receive its second consecutive EduTrust Star, Singapore’s highest mark of quality for a private education institution.

The Ngee Ann Kongsi Building will house an upgraded library to hold a larger collection of books and other arts resources, film and TV studio facilities and a music recital hall that will present free concerts for members of the public. There will be new galleries on the ground floor to reach out to the community as well as specialist and flexible spaces to meet future learning and teaching needs. The public can also look forward to facilities for a wide array of Continuing Education and Training (CET) programmes for professional and personal development.

Website: www.lasalle.edu.sg

La Senza is back and running at ION Orchard with a new look after a store makeover.

La Senza is the destination for the sexiest bras, hottest panties and fashion lingerie at guilt-free prices. Empowering women worldwide to feel sexy and confident everyday.

With a wide variety of merchandise that span bras, panties, loungewear and accessories, La Senza has remained a hot favorite in the lingerie market by offering its customers a speciality lingerie store destination.

Francais, founded in 1957 in Shibuya, Japan, heralds from a family of Japanese confectionery superstars with sister brands such as Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory and LeTAO. There are 44 outlets in Japan, including their newest flagship store in Omotesando, which opened in 2018. The first ever overseas location for Francais has opened at Paragon.

At Francais, they pay homage to the origin of Mille-Feuilles with the use of timeless pastry staple blends of premium fruits, berries, nuts and custard cream sold in sleek and whimsically artsy packaging. It is a perfect representation of heritage Western confectioneries blended with Japanese flair and finesse.

Apart from their popular Mille-Feuilles, their other star product of great renown is The Original and handmade Nama Cheese Lemon Cake made with famed Japanese Setouchi lemons, fluffy mascarpone cheesy and delectably delicious Arla Buko cream cheese from Denmark.

Over the course of a consecutive 31 years, Francais has won numerous awards from Belgium’s acclaimed “Monde Selection” contest, such as firmly placing Francais in the pantheon of master pastry makers in the world.

Amazing Castle has opened their first ever overseas branch at Cineleisure Orchard. The air-conditioned indoor playspace has 9 different stations combining traditional arcade games and classic playground mechanics with a modern technological twist. Enjoy this new playground for all ages.

Amazing Castle is a new interactive entertainment concept. Short, sharp and sweet, it is designed to challenge both your skill and intellect. It is technology enabled but unabashedly analogue. Designed to be wickedly fun for groups of up to 3 people - they mix and match a route from 9 different challenges to bring your fun to the next level.

The new Rotunda Library & Archive is now located at National Gallery Singapore, Level 3, Supreme Court Wing.

Housed within the Gallery's Rotunda, located at the heart of the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery, it is a site of historical importance and now serves as a research hub for the study of art history in Singapore and Southeast Asia.

No prior appointments need to be made or admission tickets need to be purchased to enter the Rotunda Library & Archive. However, users must register at the counter to access the collection.

National Gallery Singapore was established in 2015 as a leading visual arts institution overseeing the world’s largest public collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian modern and contemporary art. Guided by its curatorial vision to present the art histories of Singapore and Southeast Asia; reflexively (re)write the art histories of Singapore and Southeast Asia; and examine these art histories in relation to the global history of art, the Gallery has developed a significant collection of artists’ archives and a reference library focusing on Singapore and Southeast Asian art.

The Gallery’s Rotunda, located at the heart of the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery (Level 3, Supreme Court Wing), is a site of historical importance. During the building’s former life as the Supreme Court of Singapore, the Rotunda served as the Law Library. Housed in this historical space, the Rotunda Library & Archive extends the memory of this site while serving a new function as a research hub for the study of art history in Southeast Asia.

The Rotunda Library & Archive aims to be a leading library housing one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Singapore and Southeast Asian art-historical resources from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.

Their collection currently holds over 20,000 physical and digital items, including rare publications, exhibition catalogues, ephemera and digital archives, made possible through generous donations, publication exchanges with various art institutions in the region, and partnerships with the estates of Southeast Asian modern art pioneers, such as Georgette Chen and Lim Hak Tai (Singapore), S. Sudjojono (Indonesia) and Kalaw Ledesma Foundation (the Philippines).

Most archival acquisitions are conducted through loans or donations from the archives’ owners (artists, artists’ families, estates and art communities). The Library & Archive preserves the donated physical archives and digitises loaned archives.

A large selection of materials in their Library & Archive collection is searchable here (You will be redirected to their Collections Search Portal). Due to copyright restrictions and levels of permission from the archive owners, some items are only available for viewing onsite. You can view these items in the Collections Search Portal with our digital viewing facility at the Gallery’s Rotunda Library & Archive.

With an abundance of hip cafes, indie boutiques and iconic wall murals, it’s no wonder that Tiong Bahru is a favourite haunt of many local artists, creatives and culture lovers. It is also home to Privé’s first foray into a residential neighbourhood.

Serving everything from breakfast to supper, their new all-day dining concept is a great place to grab drinks and desserts. Privé Tiong Bahru will also have a strong skew towards plant-based food options that will satisfy even the most die-hard carnivore. So go and hang out at their relaxed indoor or alfresco terrace and bring your children, everyone is welcome!

Click here to look at their menus.

57 Eng Hoon Street, Unit #01-88, Block 57

Tel: +65 6776 0777 Email: info@privetiongbahru.com.sg

Revel in the unique Tang Music Box karaoke experience in the prime entertainment hub of Clarke Quay. Be instantly charmed by the delectable array of imported snacks and drinks selection, as you enter the thematic rooms that will provide you the space and comfort for your enjoyment needs. With state-of-the-art facilities and wide music catalogue, Tang Music Box is your ideal hangout spot for families and friends alike.

Tired of picking out green peas from a bowl of mixed nuts? Because they value their customers and believe that you truly deserve only the best, Tang Music Box offer a range of premium snacks in their concept store.

Munch on your favourite packet of Kettle chips and no, sharing is not caring so grab one all for yourself! Apart from their well-stocked concept store which is a perfect place for customers to mingle and jingle, check out their uniquely themed rooms that are sure to channel you from blue Mondays to happy TGIFs.

3B River Valley Road, Unit #02-03/04 The Foundry

Tel: +65 6338 6659 / 0081 Email: enquiry@tangmusicbox.com.sg

The rainy season is here and Urban Smokeshack has prepared a special menu that is sure to warm up your appetite. Previously at located at Timbre+, the newly-relocated Urban Smokeshack serves up juicy, moorish and tender meats, all smoked for hours in-house.

Head down for your smoked meat fix!

3014 Bedok Industrial Park East

Email: urban.smokeshack@gmail.com

G-Star RAW is the innovative denim brand. Established in 1989, G-Star has become a leader in the denim industry. Following a philosophy of "Just the Product" since its inception, the brand remains dedicated to denim craftmanship while encouraging its evolution. Visit their latest boutique at Jewel Changi Airport to pick out a denim fashion piece with unique characteristics and qualities.

Everyone entering a Boggi Milano store feels part of a special world, where style meets professionalism, and where customers will receive comprehensive personalized service. Visit Boggi Milano's new Paragon boutique and check out their latest collection.

Since 1939, Boggi Milano plans and designs contemporary men’s fashion, taking care of every single aspect, from production to distribution, in order to offer and spread its own style and quality. Boggi dress contemporary men: references from the past and visions of the future, tradition and innovation merge in its current style, generating the elegance of the present.

Coming to you in 2021, the new HomeTeamNS Bedok Clubhouse will be the first clubhouse to be nestled within Bedok Reservoir Park. With a waterfront haven-themed clubhouse observing the Bedok Reservoir, HomeTeamNS members can look forward to a cozy space to bond and relax with their families and friends.

HomeTeamNS is a non-profit Association set up to recognise the invaluable contributions of the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) NSmen to the safety and security of the nation. Not just a regular recreation club, they seek to create a shared environment for NSmen from both forces to foster better relations while working together.

The HomeTeamNS Bedok Clubhouse is set to have features and facilities like Concept Villas, Indoor Water Adventure, thoughfully designed mancaves and more.

Their Concept Vilas, the first of their kind in Singapore, will be set on a hill slope, within forested vegetation and amidst a canopy of trees, and offer park and reservoir views.

The Indoor Water Adventure will feature several firsts for Singapore: the longest indoor water slide; the first water slide tunnel decorated with LED rainbows, dot patterns and shooting lights; and the first wet obstacle rope course.

The mancaves will be similar to those at their Khatib Clubhouse, the mancaves at Bedok Clubhouse will allow for NSmen to gather in comfortable hangout spaces.

Website: www.hometeamns.sg

China Collection has moved into their new showroom on Joo Chiat Road and continues to offer a curated mix of stylish antique and vintage Chinese furniture as well Asia inspired home decor.

China Collection is a family owned and operated business based in Singapore, specializes in Chinese Antique furniture and home accents. Their philosophy is to provide a range of unique interior pieces that suit individual styles and are exceptional value for money.

China Collection has a mix of antique furniture and interior accessories all hand-picked by them in China. The blend of old and new has something for everyone, from antique Chinese furniture, to fine porcelain, table lamps, decorative baskets and boxes and outdoor stone statues.

252 Joo Chiat Road

Tel: +65 6235 1905 Email: info@chinacollection.com.sg

Hooga is a home and living, lifestyle store that offers inspiring merchandise from bed linens to bedding accessories, bath to storage, lightings to occasional furniture, home décor and to all your dining needs.

At Hooga, it is about redefining your little pursuit of happiness and embracing life’s simple pleasure everyday.

Discover your own Hooga today at www.findinghooga.com.

252 North Bridge Road, Unit #B1-22 Raffles City

Tel: +65 6974 8395 Email: customerservice@findinghooga.com

Slated to be a showcase of environmental sustainability when completed in 2021, Pan Pacific Orchard is Pacific Hotels Group’s first zero-waste hotel with four levels of soaring gardens that will redefine vertical sky-rise typology. The hotel is ideally located along Singapore’s famed Orchard Road with its distinctive luxury brands, high street shopping and dining options right at the doorstep, and the central business district just a 10-minute drive away.

Amongst other innovative elements, Pan Pacific Orchard will feature a rainwater harvesting system, a recyclable water system, and a compactor that turns food waste into compost – which will then be channelled into fertiliser for its sky gardens.

Offering 350 eco-friendly rooms, the latest sustainable hotel to debut in Asia comes complete with a gym, swimming pool, bars and restaurants, a club lounge, and a sky terrace ensconced within its gardens and cascading greenery.

One of the most popular denim brands in the world, Evisu was founded in Japan in 1991 and is named after the Japanese god of prosperity, Ebisu. Initially only around 14 pairs of jeans a day were created, each one caringly hand-painted with the now famous seagull logo.

Evisu captured the imagination of the detail-obsessed Japanese fashion crowed and spurred a revival of interest in vintage denim which spread around the world. Today Evisu has gained critical acclaim, as one of the ultimate denim must haves, is internationally known and embraced by both collectors and hipsters alike. Evisu was initially more a labour of love than a commercial venture and despite phenomenal success. Evisu's mission to create the highest quality products has remained unchanged. This underlying value defines Evisu’s position as an icon in the history of denim wear.

Ted Baker's ION Orchard store has reopened with a brand new look. Inspired by Singapore’s beautiful greenery, Ted welcomes you to his blossoming garden.

Since launching as a shirt specialist in Glasgow in 1988, Ted Baker has quickly become one of the UK's leading fashion retailers.

From the beginning Ted has had a very clear, unswerving, focus on quality, attention to detail and a quirky sense of humour, so much so in fact that the first stores used to provide a laundry service for every shirt purchased – something that gained the quickly growing brand the title of ‘No Ordinary Designer Label’. Everything produced under the Ted Baker name has his personality woven into its very heart.

TAG : ION