A favourite among local film aficionados, The Projector is an independent cinema that showcases a host of curated films including cult classics, arthouse and foreign films, and even Hollywood blockbusters. Housed within a restored cineplex that was originally built in the 1970s, The Projector exudes a nostalgic air of vintage charm. Before catching your film, stop by at the Intermission Bar located at the cinema’s lobby for delicious craft beers and sumptuous light bites. On some nights, the bar also hosts live music performances by local musicians.
Located in Singapore’s Downtown Core amid the Civic District, National Gallery Singapore breathes new life into the former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings after an extensive renovation and restoration project spanning four years. Opened in 2015, the sprawling museum hosts the largest collection of Southeast Asian art in the world, with over 10,000 artworks in Singapore’s national collection. A harmonious blend of history and modernity, the museum features historic halls and foyers that have been restored to their former glory, intermingled with modern gallery spaces and exceptional dining venues.
Situated atop Emily Hill within a Colonial-era mansion, kult kafé serves up cocktails inspired by local flavours such as their signature Kult Julep—a blend of rum, fresh lime juice, kaffir lime leaves, and gula melaka. Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, the venue also frequently hosts art and music showcases, along with street music parties, weekend outdoor markets, and other exciting events. For a fun and casual evening away from the hustle and bustle of some of Singapore’s more popular nightlife areas, kult kafé is definitely a venue worth visiting.
Part of Singapore’s burgeoning private dining and supper club scene, One Kind House is run by Mummy Soh, a 75-year-old lady with a passion for sharing the flavours of Peranakan cuisine albeit with her own unique twist. Aside from hosting private dinner experiences, she also hosts an intimate cooking class where guests will get the chance to forage for fresh produce from her garden before coming together to cook a three-course meal inspired by traditional recipes.
Established in 2005, BooksActually has become the destination of choice for Singapore’s literary crowd. Specialising in both literature and fiction, the bookstore is home to the nation’s largest selection of local literary works, including rare titles no longer in print. You will also find a variety of international works spanning a wide range of subjects including history and music, alongside an assortment of trinkets and stationery. Situated in the heart of Tiong Bahru, one of Singapore’s oldest residential estates that has now evolved into one of the country’s most hip cultural enclaves, BooksActually is the perfect place to pick up a new book before heading to one of the numerous cafés nearby for a relaxed afternoon of reading and people watching.
Situated in an exclusive downtown and embassy quarter, and within walking distance to the city's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the St. Regis Singapore affords luxury travellers the effortless refinement of 299 richly appointed rooms and suites, with the signature St. Regis Butler Service.
Insider tips, cultural recommendations
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