Singapore's Hidden Gems

Description:

Haji lane is a narrow back alley in the Arab Quarter. It may not look like much at first glance, but Haji Lane is in fact a hip and trendy shopping destination for young Singaporeans, who come here looking for cult labels and vintage clothing in the offbeat boutiques that line the lane. It is also one of the few places in Singapore where you will see graffiti.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great off-the-beaten-track choice for wine and cocktails.

Description:

Spanning the corner on what could be Singapore's most picturesque street, this sign-less, sage-green shophouse is garnering something of a cult following amongst those in the know. Intimate gatherings of friends huddle round the mismatched outdoor tables, sharing bottles of red from the quirky wine list, or sampling vintage recipe prohibition-era cocktails, such as the Rockefeller (rye, fresh watermelon and mint). In respect for their residential neighbours, late night revellers are invited inside after 10.30pm for a local boozer style 'lock-in'.

Our Local Expert Says:

Perfect escapism

Description:

This lush garden retreat, with its rustic bale rooftops, meandering streams and piped Balinese music, so successfully recreates the magic of Bali that you soon forget you are down a winding backstreet in Singapore. Intimate pavilions dotted in amongst the undergrowth are perfect for a romantic soirée, whilst the open-plan bar area encourages convivial gatherings of friends. Other nooks and crannies shelter informal groups tucking into large sharing platters of Balinese, Thai and Indian nibbles. This is one of those hidden gems you want to keep to yourself - but really, there's room enough for everyone.

Our Local Expert Says:

Good for weekend brunch, evening alfresco cocktails and intimate dinner dates.

Description:

Situated on a private island surrounded by yachts, Privé at Keppel Bay Marina allows you to fulfil your millionaire fantasies. Thankfully the bakery and café menu doesn't require a millionaire's salary, dishing up breakfasts, salads, pastas and burgers to a laid-back crowd. As the sun goes down, the beautiful people descend on the bar to pose on the al-fresco sofas and sip cocktails in the sea breeze. Air-con aficionados can slip inside to the intimate fine-dining restaurant to savour French-American inspired seafood, steak and pasta dishes.

Description:

Reflections at Bukit Chandu celebrates the bravery of the Malay Regiment who tried to defend Singapore against the Japanese in the Battle of Pasir Panjang. Bukit Chandu was the site of one of the fiercest battles during the Defence of Singapore, where just 1,400 soldiers of the Malay Regiment made their stand against 13,000 Japanese soldiers.

The memorial is housed within a colonial bungalow, used by the British defence forces during the war to store military supplies. The exhibition uses various forms of multimedia to bring to life the story of the lead up to the British surrender on 15th February 1942, while the 'Windows of Memories' provides personal accounts from former soldiers, residents and children who survived the attack.

Description:

Singapore's first independent contemporary arts centre showcases a wide selection of exhibitions, events and performances, ranging from dance and theatre, to poetry recitals, rock band gigs and screenings of art house films. Venues include a black box theatre, a gallery, a dance studio, Random Room and two multi-function classrooms. It prides itself on supporting young, emerging Singapore artists.

Description:

Tucked away in a traditional black-and-white house not far from Orchard Road, Spa Boutique is an oasis of pampering and wellness. In addition to the usual massages, facials, polishes and masques, the spa also offers wellness programmes, such as yoga, pilates and tai chi and a wide range of retreat programmes, which include healthy lunches by the pool.

Our Local Expert Says:

Step back in time to the 1950s

Description:

Colbar, short for 'Colonial Bar' used to be a canteen off Portsdown Road for soldiers who lived in the nearby barracks. In 2003, Colbar shut down to make way for a new highway but its regulars petitioned and instead, Colbar was shifted, each and every brick of it, to the location nearby where it stands now. The menu serves mostly greasy pub grub - burgers, bangers and mash, fish and chips. Chug it down with a mug of beer and contemplate life on a tropical far-flung Island with the lush greenery around you. - Teo Wan Yuan

Description:

Yixing Xuan, which translates as 'happy and relaxing small house', is a tranquil and welcoming tea house where you can sample some of the finest Chinese teas in Singapore. The walls are lined with various tins and packets of high quality tea leaves imported from China, and doll-sized cups and saucers. The welcoming staff will often invite you take a seat and sample some of the produce before you buy. If you're interested in learning more about the fascinating world of Chinese tea, they also run tasting workshops, which will have you distinguishing between an Oolong and a Lung Ching in no time.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of the most romantic spots in town for secluded drinks amongst the foliage.

Description:

Come to One Rochester, set in lush green environs and simply get enchanted. The restaurant and bar tops the list of hot-spots for many reasons-the amazing gastro bar, the utterly impressive wine list spanning 200 labels, the fantastic service and the fusionistic menu with delicious items to savor. Soothing and peaceful, the ambiance of this place is apt for those looking for a meal in solitude away from the hustle-bustle of the city. Featuring multiple dining and drinking rooms, guests will find it difficult to choose between 'The Living Room', 'The Garden', 'The Library' and 'The Dining Room'. Wherever you plan to relax-One Rochester promises to offer you a memorable experience!