dining locations interesting places fun activities ideas and many more

Transcription

dining locations interesting places fun activities ideas and many more
YOUR DATING GUIDE TO:
dining locations
interesting places
fun activities
ideas and many more
Foreword................................................................. 4
First Date Etiquette.............................................. 5
Animal Attraction................................................. 6
Flights Of Fancy.................................................... 8
Pulau Ubin Getaway.............................................. 10
Get High On Fresh Air......................................... 12
Your Place Under The Sun................................... 14
A Splashing Good Time....................................... 16
Enchanting East Coast Park............................... 18
Reminiscence Of The Past................................... 20
Gorgeous Singapore River.................................. 22
Adventure Seekers................................................ 24
Your Perfect Day At Sentosa............................... 26
A Lazy Day By The River..................................... 30
Look Spiffy And Dazzling.................................... 32
Battle Of Gokon..................................................... 36
The Tree Top.......................................................... 40
Contemporary Ethnic Museum........................... 42
Romance By The Bay............................................ 44
Love At First Science........................................... 48
Journey Through Time......................................... 50
Art To Heart Talk.................................................. 54
Discount Vouchers For You................................. 57
All rights reserved. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced in part or in whole without
the written consent of Social Development Network.
Nature
Cultural
Relax
Adventure
Water Fun
Information is correct at the time of printing.
Copyright © 2010 Social Development Network
Contents
3
Singapore is a great place to eat and shop. But is it
a great place for those who are dating? If you’re
one of the many singles with these thoughts, you’ll
be pleased to have these 20 itineraries and useful
etiquette tips in this handy guide.
Whether you are new to dating, a seasoned
single or have been dating for some time, it’s
possible to have fun in a date – as long as you’re
willing to make the effort. That’s right, if you’re
looking for a lifetime partner, you need to make
effort. Take time to plan a variety of activities and
experiences to share together. After all, other than
strengthening the bond between both of you, the
dates would also become lovely memories for you
in the future.
Each of the 20 itineraries presented here provides
a full-day dating experience for
two. To enable you to have
further information on each
itinerary, contact details are
included. So, if your date
asks, “where are we going for
our date next?”, we believe
this guide will help you find
the answer.
4 Foreword
Dress appropriately for the occasion – be it a formal
dinner or an outdoor activity.
Saying nothing actually means something – express
how you feel through a gesture or a smile, just don’t
hide your feelings.
Show up on time – being on time shows that you regard
the importance of the appointment and that you respect
your date.
Adjustments never end – your life may look great for a
moment, but it can change. The point then, is to enjoy every
step of the process and moments of your experience.
Walk your talk – people respond to demonstrations of
values rather than demands. Live out what you believe
through your actions instead of expecting people to change
to make things better.
There’s no price tag on love – whether your date is happy
being with you is not dependent on how rich you are.
Satisfaction depends on where you look – do not just
focus on a person’s weakness or flaws, everyone has a
gift or talent you can find if you look for it.
The more you give, the more you will believe in
yourself – by doing something for someone,
both of you will enjoy each other’s company
a lot more! It will also increase
your self-confidence.
Lastly, emotions last longer
than events – remember that
your emotional reactions
will be remembered far
longer than the issue that is
upsetting you.
First Date Etiquette
5
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
Leave the clamour of the city behind and spend an amazing day
with your date, amid lush tropical vegetation with the sound of
wildlife all around, at Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. Here, far
from the cares of your everyday lives, you’ll get the chance to
interact like nowhere else, discover each other and perhaps even
build that magical connection.
TAkE A wALk ON THE wILD SIDE
There’s nothing like a stroll through the grounds of Singapore Zoo
to enjoy each other’s company and a little conversation. What are
your favourite animals? What are your Chinese Zodiac signs?
It’s the perfect opportunity to get to know one another without
any pressure. The days can get hot, so light, comfortable clothing
is good. Caps can keep the sun out of your eyes, and sunscreen can
prevent a dreaded sunburn.
You will never have to fear about running out of things to talk
about here. There are always wildlife shows and feeding times
to add a little excitement, and to help break the ice! Don’t miss
the feeding of the ever popular white tigers and polar bears! It’s
a good idea to check the show and feeding times, and locations
beforehand so you can plan your route.
Share the thrill of an elephant ride and experience what the
Maharajahs of India and Kings of Siam enjoyed in their heyday.
You can also have your photo taken with a friendly orangutan.
These wonderful memories may just be the start of many more.
Do be flexible and ask if there is anything in particular your date
would like to see. After all, the day is about both of you spending
time together and discovering one another more than anything
else. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way!
CAPTURE THOSE SPECIAL MOMENTS
Be sure to take photos as you go along, not just of the animals and
shows, but also of each other as you enjoy the facilities. Think of some
fun poses you can do together to add a little zest to your photos.
If your camera has it, a video mode can help capture the action, and
also you and your date’s reactions. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries
and memory cards!
6 Animal Attraction
STOP FOR A BITE
When it’s time to grab a bite, you won’t be short on choices with the
many food and beverage outlets. Enjoy an Italian-style thin crust pizza
from Pizzasafari, or enjoy the crispy kaya toast and local coffee from
Ah Meng Kopi. Then add a touch of sweetness to the day with a visit
to the Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop.
Bringing your own snacks could save you time queuing for meals and
waiting for seats, especially during the weekends when the crowds
come in. There’s nothing like the personal touch, and your date will
appreciate some light snacks for the long walks. Drinks, chips, fruits or
other finger food are all simple to prepare, and do a lot to show your
thoughtful side.
THE MAGIC OF THE NIGHT
As the evening rolls in, enjoy a buffet dinner at Ulu Ulu Safari
Restaurant or Bongo Burgers. At Night Safari, remember to catch the
ethnic dances and scorching stunts of the Thumbuakar troupe at Ulu
Ulu Safari Restaurant and Photomount. Don’t miss the Creatures of
the Night show and be awed by the predators of the dark.
We recommend you take the tram as some of the paths can get
quite dark, and you and your date may want to rest your feet after a
day of walking! There are also special celebrations during Chinese
New Year, Halloween, Christmas and other festive occasions.
Visit the Night Safari’s Photomount for a few keepsake photos, either
taken professionally or with your own camera. Before you leave, be
sure to check out the souvenir shops for some mementos of the day.
Here’s a tip: if there was any particular animal or show that your date
enjoyed, you might want to look for a souvenir that relates
to it and give it to your date as a gift.
Singapore Zoo
80 Mandai Lake Road
www.zoo.com.sg
Price: $18
Night Safari
80 Mandai Lake Road
www.nightsafari.com.sg
Price: $22
Operating Hours:
8.30am to 6pm daily
Last admission at 5.30pm
Operating Hours:
7.30pm to 12am daily
Restaurants and retail shops
open from 6pm daily
Last admission at 11pm
Animal Attraction
7
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
As long as Man has wondered about the world around him, birds
have been a source of fascination. Poets and songwriters have been
inspired by them, conjuring phrases such as “soaring on the wings
of love”. Bring your date to the Jurong Bird Park and you will surely
learn to appreciate them, and more importantly, one another!
ROMANCE IS IN THE AIR
Jurong Bird Park is renowned for its informative, entertaining bird
shows, from the Birds & Buddies Show at the Pools Amphitheatre
to penguin feeding at the Penguin Expedition. Stay cool with
a premium ice cream from the Hawk Café, then take a tranquil,
romantic walk through the Palm Plaza Garden, with lovely black
swans and a family of ducks to add to the serenity. Don’t forget to
take photos with your feathered friends! We recommend that each
of you bring a camera and combine the photos later in a joint album,
complete with captions and credits, a wonderful keepsake of a
memorable day together.
In the afternoon, take a ride on the Bird Park’s Panorail for a
spectacular panoramic view, including the picturesque African
Waterfall Aviary. Here, more than 1500 birds of 50 species fly freely
against the backdrop of the tallest man-made waterfall in the world.
Lose yourself in the splendour of the moment, with the brightly
coloured plumage of the birds against the backdrop, the shimmering
water of the falls, and the sounds of nature all around. At times like
these, just enjoying the moment together can bring you closer and
build a bond.
that overlooks the Bird Park. You have a wide range of choices –
Japanese, Teppanyaki, Western or Indonesian.
GET HIGH ABOVE IT ALL
The hilltop itself is a wonderful place for a romantic evening walk
after dinner. Open and airy, it offers wonderful views and a chance
for you and your date to recount the day, look over your photos,
think of funny captions and enjoy each other’s company.
It’s been an eventful day so far, and perhaps you’re already feeling
a little tired after the long trek in Jurong Bird Park. MASego - The
Safari Spa can take care of that, with spa treatments and massages to
ease away your little aches and pains. All this pampering takes place
in the unique ambience that is inspired by resort-like safari
living, with a relaxed natural wilderness setting. What a cosy,
tranquil end to a day of fun and adventure!
The Birds of Prey show at Fuji Hawk Walk is no less spectacular.
Here you and your date will be thrilled by the majesty of the large
birds of prey. Eagles, hawks and falcons swoop across the
amphitheatre in a masterful display of precision aerobatics that will
draw ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ from the audience. Here’s a chance to share
in the thrills and laughter of the moment with your date. Continue
your journey of discovery at the World of Darkness and African
Wetlands, with nocturnal owls and raptors ready to greet you at any
time of the day. Did we mention that the baby owls are really cute?
They may get your date swooning!
As the evening comes and dinnertime approaches, visit the Hill Top
Japanese Restaurant, a popular steakhouse at the top of the hill
Jurong Bird Park
2 Jurong Hill
www.birdpark.com.sg
Price: $18
Operating Hours:
8.30am to 6pm daily
Last admission at 5.30pm
8 Flights Of Fancy
Hill Top Japanese
Restaurant
2 Jurong Hill Road
Jurong Bird Park
Tel: 6266 3522
MASEGO
- The Safari Spa
SAFRA Jurong
333 Boon Lay Way
Level 3 Leisure Wing
www.masego.com.sg
Tel: 6790 1661
Price: Average of $250
to $350 per couple
Operating Hours:
11am to 9pm daily
Flights Of Fancy
9
Duration
Morning to Evening
Pulau Ubin is barely a stone’s throw away, yet visiting it is almost like
stepping back in time to a slower, gentler age. It’s a unique venue for
a date, an adventure waiting to happen, perfect if you and your date are
even moderately adventurous. The main draw in recent years has
been Chek Jawa, a haven of biodiversity whose discovery in 2000 halted
the proposed urban development and preserved it in its current state.
But even before the discovery of these 100 hectares of wetlands on the
southern tip of the island, Pulau Ubin was a popular spot for a day out
during the weekends. The air is fresher than any air-conditioned shopping
centre, but it does get hot, so do bring towels and lots of water. Sling a
handy camera and wear loose clothing to enjoy this whole-day outing.
YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS
Start off at Changi Village Hawker Centre, where you and your date can
enjoy a hearty breakfast to energise yourselves for the day ahead. The
hawker centre boasts many local favourites, including nasi lemak, carrot
cake and fried noodles. Pack some fruits and snacks for the day, perhaps
pick up a guide book on Pulau Ubin or Chek Jawa and you’re set to begin
your adventure. If it’s a hot day, you might want to put a little sunscreen
on for protection.
A short boat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal brings you to the
Pulau Ubin Jetty, where you can choose to rent a van or bicycle. If you
and your date are really adventurous, set off on foot. The walk to Chek
Jawa takes around 40 minutes. The most popular mode of transport is the
bicycle, which offers the advantage of a little more speed (and probably
comfort) than walking, yet at a leisurely enough pace for you and your
date to get acquainted, even the opportunity to explore a side road or
interesting spot along the way. If you do rent bicycles, do ask for a bike
lock. Bicycles are not allowed in Chek Jawa, so you’ll have to lock them up
at the visitors’ centre.
On the island, time seems to slow down. Yes, you’re still in Singapore, but
it feels like Singapore from the 1960s. Relax and enjoy the serene, idyllic
pace of life. It’s the perfect atmosphere of some light romantic banter.
But do exercise a little care. There may not be much traffic, but there are
still vehicles on the roads you’re cycling on.
BE A wILDLIFE SCAVENGER
When you get to Chek Jawa, you’ll find an information kiosk, boardwalk,
viewing tower and viewing jetty for the sea-facing wetlands. The boardwalk offers views of a rich diversity of indigenous creatures. Seahorses,
Changi Village
Hawker Centre
3 Changi Village Road
10 Pulau Ubin Getaway
Pulau Ubin / Chek Jawa
Bumboats are available at
Changi Point Ferry Terminal
51 Lorong Bekukong
Tel: 1800 471 7300
www.nparks.gov.sg
Price: $2.50 (one-way)
sand dollars, mudskippers, hermit and fiddler crabs, starfish and the
seabirds feeding on them all. It’s the perfect opportunity for you and your
date to play Photo Scavenger Hunt, where you compete to see who comes
back with the most diverse range of photos of the Chek Jawa wildlife!
A little good-natured competition increases the excitement of your date,
and helps build your relationship. Afterwards, share a few quiet moments
together with a romantic walk along the shore.
Apart from Chek Jawa, look out for signs leading to Bukit Puaka. At
74-metre tall, it is the highest point on Pulau Ubin, overlooking the Ubin
Granite Quarry, and offers some memorable scenic views of Singapore
and Malaysia. At the centre of Ubin Town, you’ll find The Wayang Stage,
the centre of celebrations for the hundreds of visitors during the Seventh
Lunar Month or Hungry Ghost Festival.
Pulau Ubin is a relatively inexpensive option; it offers a charming
adventure that’s hard to find, at any price.
At the end of the day, you might want to end the evening with a seafood
dinner at one of the rustic restaurants along the jetty. Guys, here’s a
chance to demonstrate your chivalry and leave a good impression, by
helping your date to shell her prawns. Do remember to ask first though.
Spend some time reliving the exciting, funny and happy moments of the
day, perhaps even tally the results of your Photo Scavenger Hunt. Do note
that if you are leaving the island after 7pm, special arrangements will have
to be made with the boatmen. Back at Changi Village, you and your date
might want to indulge yourselves after a strenuous day out at The Retreat
Spa and Thalasso Centre. There are a wide variety of treatments to ease
away the little aches and leave you relaxed and refreshed. If you have
not had your dinner, fear not as Changi Village has plenty of great food
to offer.
The Retreat Spa and
Thalasso Centre
1 Netheravon Road
#01-03A Changi Village Hotel
Tel: 6738 0080
www.theretreat.com.sg
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sat: 10am to 9pm
(Till 7pm on Sun)
Pulau Ubin Getaway
11
Duration
Morning to Afternoon
Fresh air, a little morning exercise and a whole lot of nature. Throw
in a little local history and you have the makings an adventurous
hiking date at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. This 164-hectare
reserve is rich in plant and animal diversity, boasting more species
of trees than the entire North American continent! Over 500 animal
species and 840 species of flowering plants call the area home.
It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, insect repellant, water, binoculars
and a camera to record your outing. Comfortable clothes and shoes
are a must, and a hat or cap could be useful. The Visitor Centre
has amenities such as an information counter, restrooms, first aid and
a specialty shop. If you’re low on water, top up your water bottles at
one of the water coolers.
ON THE TRAIL TO ROMANCE
Start your date with an early morning hike to the highest point
in Singapore, the summit of Bukit Timah. Choose from one of the
many trails available, but do check the status of the trails at the
National Parks website (www.nparks.gov.sg) beforehand.
Dozens of people make their way up the hill every day, but some
trails are more challenging than others, so choose one that’s right for
you and your date. It’s a nice quiet hike to the summit, leaving you
plenty of opportunities to chat and enjoy each other’s company.
Helping one another over the rougher
bits of the trail is great for
building rapport. Take some
photos at these spots as
you’ll definitely want
them later! Tread
carefully, especially
on your descent, in
case of loose or
slippery stones.
TAkE IT EASY
Picnics are great for
relationship building,
and right next door to
the Visitor Centre and accessible by
a boardwalk is Hindhede Park, the perfect
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
177 Hindhede Drive
The Visitor’s Centre is open from
8.30am to 6pm daily.
12 Get High On Fresh Air
The main trails in the
reserve are:
Route 1 (Red) 45 mins,
trail grade: Easy
Route 2 (Blue) 35 mins,
trail grade: Easy
Route 3 (Green) 1-2
hours, trail grade:
picnic spot. There are designated picnic areas here, and shelters
for you to keep cool and dry. Prepare some sandwiches, drinks and
fruits and you’re all set. Spend some time relaxing in the serene
ambience, chatting and going over photos. Have some good photos
from your date? You might want to start a scrapbook together,
collecting photos and memorabilia such as ticket stubs to create
a journal of your experiences together.
After a hard, but fun, day of exertion, pamper yourselves with a
massage at the nearby Beauty World Centre. You could also have
lunch here. There’s a good variety of hawker fare on the top floor.
A LITTLE HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Afterwards, get a little history lesson at Memories at old Ford
Factory, just five minutes away by taxi. Experience the memories
and reflections of those who lived through the darkest years of
Singapore’s modern history, the Japanese Occupation. Give the
Syonan Race a shot! It is an extra-large version of a snakes and
ladders game painted on the driveway. The colourful visuals in
each of the 44 boxes tell the story of the 44 months of Japanese
occupation. Play the game and step into the shoes of a Syonan-to
resident as you steer your way through the perils of occupied
Singapore. Just one more adventure together that you can add
to your scrapbook!
Beauty World Centre
144 Upper Bukit Timah Road
Moderate to difficult
Route 4 (Yellow) 2 hrs,
trail grade: Difficult
Kampong Trail (which
leads to MacRitchie
Reservoir) 1.5 hrs, trail
grade: Easy
Memories at Old
Ford Factory
351 Upper Bukit Timah Road
Tel: 6462 6724
www.s1942.org.sg
Price: $3
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sat: 9am to 5.30pm
Sun: 12pm to 5.30pm
Get High On Fresh Air 13
Duration
Morning to Afternoon
Parks and gardens are great places for a date. The fresh air, open
sky and greenery contribute to a feeling of freedom that gives your
day a head-start. The Southern Ridges comprises 9-kilometre
of green, open spaces spanning three parks – Mt Faber Park, Telok
Blangah Hill Park and Kent Ridge Park. Here you can enjoy spectacular
panoramic views of the city, harbour and the Southern Islands.
Do bring some snacks and plenty of water. Once you’re on the trails,
the nearest shops are quite a distance away, along the main roads.
For a long day out in the sun, it’s best to bring sunscreen and wear
loose clothing. A hat or cap can help keep you cool and the sun out
of your eyes.
THE START OF A GREAT DAY
Start the morning at the Marang Trail, at the foot of Mount Faber
Park. Along the way, make sure to hydrate yourselves frequently,
and take the opportunity provided by the shaded benches along
the trails to take a breather every now and then. Take it slow and
enjoy your surroundings, as well as each other’s company. There’s
plenty of time for conversation. You can talk about yourselves, your
families, your hobbies, likes, the flowers along the trail ... anything
that strikes your fancy. If your date is the quiet type, don’t force the
conversation, but let things develop naturally. Some people just take
a little time to warm up.
Enjoy the view as you cross Henderson Road on a 274-metre long
pedestrian bridge into Telok Blangah Hill Park. The Forest Walk
meanders through some 50 metres of secondary forest till you get to
Alexandra Arch. Here the Floral Walk, a colourful garden with more
than 100 species of flowering shrubs and trees, is a sure-fire hit with
the ladies, so take a leisurely walk through.
Take advantage of the beautiful surroundings with a picnic brunch
in the shade of a convenient tree. Select your spot carefully though,
to avoid sharing your picnic with ants or other insects! Whatever
stage your relationship is at, picnics are wonderful breaks from your
normal routines. You can get to know one another over a couple of
sandwiches, or whisper sweet nothings as you feed each other
fruits. You can also bring a portable radio and card games for
some entertainment.
Mount Faber Park
Junction of Kampong
Bahru Road and Telok
Blangah Road
Kha Restaurant
HortPark
33 Hyderabad Road
Tel: 6476 9000
www.kha.sg
If you’d rather be served than have a picnic, enjoy lunch at Kha
Restaurant located in HortPark, which features both indoor
and alfresco dining. HortPark boasts an intriguing collection
of butterflies, including a display of the various phases of
development, from caterpillar to butterfly.
At Kent Ridge Park, the Canopy Walk lets you almost ‘float’
through the forest canopy, as you walk high above the ground on
a 280-metre long boardwalk that brings you to the museum
“Reflections of Bukit Chandu”.
After a tiring walk at the Southern Ridges, we recommend you
head on down to Villa RainTree Resort Spa to wind down. Located
in Labrador Nature Reserve, Villa RainTree Resort Spa promises
a pampering treatment that will leave you in nothing less than a
luxurious state of ease and renewal. When you have completed
your spa treatment, take a stroll along one of the nature trails
and end the evening with a romantic sunset
vigil. Perhaps you’ll be inspired to share a
love poem, a song, or even blissful silence
as you are both mesmerised by the beauty
of nature.
Villa RainTree
Resort Spa
30 Labrador Villa Road
Tel: 6532 1155
www.villaraintree.com
Price: Average of $300
per couple
Operating Hours:
10am to 9pm daily
14 Your Place Under The Sun
Your Place Under The Sun 15
Duration
Morning to Evening
Thrill rides and scary movies have long been popular with young
dating couples. They’re both great at getting your heart pounding,
getting you over any initial awkwardness, and that’s half the battle
won, especially on first dates! Downtown east fits the bill perfectly,
with a combination of exhilarating rides and leisure activities that
will keep you and your date enthralled the whole day through.
This is also the perfect place to organise a group date!
TONS OF FUN IN THE wET!
Once you’re here, you just cannot miss Wild Wild Wet. Here you’ll
find Ular-Lah, the first raft slide in Southeast Asia where you test
your mettle on the rapids with five other companions. It’s the
closest thing you can experience to white water rafting. You
can also slide your way through the tight curves and crazy
turns of a high-speed ride at The Waterworks.
It’s a good idea to bring sunscreen since
you’re going to be out and about. And
towelling robes will let you exit and
re-enter, so you can step
outside for a quick snack.
Try to avoid the school
holiday months in
March, June, September
and December, when the
park will be swarming
with kids, not the ideal
ambience for a date.
When you (or your date) get
tired of the water, take to the air
on the SkyRider monorail for a
leisurely tour and an aerial view of
the various pools and rides. After that,
enjoy a bite at one of the many restaurants
in Downtown East. A break in the action that will let you and your
date chat a little and get to know each other.
Downtown East / E!Hub
1 Pasir Ris Close
www.downtowneast.com.sg
Wild Wild Wet (Downtown East)
Tel: 6581 9128
www.wildwildwet.com
Price: $15.50
Operating Hours:
Mon, Wed, Thu & Fri: 1pm to 7pm
Sat, Sun, School & Public
Holidays: 10am to 7pm
16 A Splashing Good Time
LAND, SEA OR AIR?
The choice is yours at the escape Theme Park. Take to the track at
Daytona Go-Kart for some high speed thrills. The twists and turns
of the track will leave you breathless! Then go at it in the water with
Bumper Boats, where you take the helm to navigate your inflatable
dinghy through an obstacle course. Challenge your date to see who
can run the course better. A little friendly competition can be a whole
lot of fun! Then enjoy the sensation of soaring in the air at Kite Flyer,
where you get to hang in mid-air, suspended only by a shoulder harness.
As the daylight fades, it’s time to think about where you’re going to
have dinner. If you’ve had enough of the sun for the day, you can
spend a relaxing time exploring the relatively new mall e!hub which
features many tantalising food outlets and interesting shops. You
and your date can catch a movie at the Cathay Cineplexes; relive
your younger days on the 25-metre high Ferris Wheel; have fun at
the X-Zone arcade; or stop for a game or two at the Orchid Bowl.
If open air dining and a laid-back feel appeals to you and your date,
try Beach Culture @ Water Cross. The intimate ambience and award
winning cuisine are perfect to create a romantic mood that’s just
right to end your date with. The perfect end to a perfect day, with
lots of treasured, fun memories for all!
Escape Theme Park
(Downtown East)
Tel: 6581 9122
www.escapethemepark.com
Price: $17.70
Operating Hours:
Sat, Sun, School & Public
Holidays: 10am to 8pm
Beach Culture
@ Water Cross
131 Pasir Ris Road
Pasir Ris Beach Park
- Car Park E
Tel: 6584 0080
www.beachculture.com.sg
A Splashing Good Time 17
Duration
Morning to Evening
For years now, east Coast Park has been many things to many
people. Its 15-kilometre scenic coastline has been popular among
couples, sports lovers, teenagers, families and those who just
want to get some sun and fresh air. It boasts a wide variety of
activities and facilities that make it the ideal venue for a date.
FUN ON wHEELS
Rent a pair of bicycles or inline skates and you and your date
could be rolling along with the sea breeze in your hair and
smiles on your faces as you enjoy the view, and each other’s
company. It’s not about how fast you go, so keep it slow as you
talk, laugh and explore the coastline. If either of you are new to
cycling or skating, learning from your date could be a fun activity.
Just remember to be patient, considerate and safe! The magic
of East Coast Park isn’t just in the wonderful landscape and
fresh air. It’s also in the fun you can have together as a couple,
discovering each other’s likes, dislikes and idiosyncrasies.
GO ON A PHOTO HUNT
The park, with its rich diversity of attractions and activities, is
probably the ideal place for you to try out a special couple activity,
a Photo Hunt! Each of you has to have a camera. Any compact
digital camera will do, and you will need a laptop or netbook.
Start at the Bougainvillea Garden and walk west towards the
hawker centre. Along the way, look for interesting things to take
pictures of (don’t forget to take pictures of each other too!). Once
you’re actually looking, it’s amazing how many unusual things
you’ll find! When you get to the hawker centre, get a couple of
drinks as you load the photos onto the laptop/netbook. You
could also do this on a picnic mat on the grass or by the beach, if
you prefer. Sort your photos, pick the best and categorise them
into albums according to any categories you would like, perhaps
flowers, beaches, animals, signs and people. The albums you
create together are not just a record of the park, they are
momentos of the wonderful time you had together.
18 Enchanting East Coast Park
DREAMS OF CASTLES, kITES & BARBECUES
There is a whole world of activities that you and your date can
enjoy together at East Coast Park. Try sandcastle building at
the beach and see what wonderful creations both of you can
come up with using just sand, water, teamwork and a whole
lot of imagination! At the end of your hard work, why not play
‘Carry-on-the-Story’ with your date as both of you admire your
sandy creation and have fun spinning tales on castles, knights
and princesses.
If it is windy, buy a kite at one of the bicycle kiosks and see
how high you can get it up the sky. Look for some open space so
that the kite will not be entangled on a tree. Flying a kite requires
teamwork and if the wind is blowing steadily, the
kite will stay high for a long while. It’s real fun!
If you like barbecues and don’t mind
a little preparation, book a barbecue
pit online at www.axs.com.sg.
If you wish to relive a childhood
memory, why not try camping?
Simply apply for a permit at any
AXS machine.
Whatever you decide to do at
East Coast Park, remember
that the real joy comes from
doing it together as a couple,
with each of you sharing the
load and doubling the fun!
Enchanting East Coast Park 19
Duration
Morning to Afternoon
It was only a generation or two ago that farms dotted our tiny
island. Today, they have all disappeared from our landscape, the
inevitable victims of progress. Here’s a chance for you and your
date to take a trip back in time and visit some farms, and even
leave with some fresh, straight-from-the-farm produce for your
next picnic.
LIFE ON THE FARM
Farmart Centre isn’t a run-of-the-mill farm. It is an intriguing
array of farms that offers the rest of us (who have never been to
a farm) the chance to see what life was like for our forefathers,
when a day’s toil took place not in an airconditioned office, but
out in the open. Here you’ll find Singapore’s only Bee Farm,
conventional Koi Farm, Lotus Farm, Quail Farm, Orchid Farm,
Ornamental Fish Farm, Live Lobsters, Crabs, DIY water fountains
and much more! Plan ahead and you and your date can buy the
necessary ingredients for a picnic date next week. How about
quail egg sandwiches and a sweet aloe vera dessert? You could
give your date a romantic surprise with a bouquet of orchids
from Farmart.
But for now, both of you can play Mr and Mrs Farmer as you
learn all about animal and plant husbandry and farming. Well,
enough to impress your friends at least. At the Quail Farm, learn
about the birds and observe live quail, chicks and even other
game birds.
TAkE THE CHALLENGE!
On to aloe vera, popular these days in skin care products.
You will learn not only about the
therapeutic effects of this plant, but
also what companion planting is all
about, and how to grow vegetables in
urban homes. Here’s the chance for a
Couple Challenge – buy a pot of aloe vera
each and grow it at home. Care for them and
monitor their progress, share the
information with each other
about how your plant is doing,
and exchange tips to keep your
Farmart Centre
67 Sungei Tengah Rd
Tel: 6767 0070
www.farmart.com.sg
20 Reminiscence Of The Past
Food Outlets
at Farmart
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sat: 10am
to 10pm
Sun & Public
Holidays: 9am
to 10pm
Retail Outlets
at Farmart
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sat: 10am
to 8pm
Sun & Public
Holidays:
10am to 8pm
plants healthy. It’s a fun activity that keeps you both connected
even when you’re apart!
FOOD, FASHION & CULTURE…THAT’S CHINATOwN
After a morning at the farm, take a trip to Chinatown for lunch.
There’s so much to offer on the menu that you’ll want to explore
a little before deciding where to eat. Afterwards, hop on to a
trishaw at Pagoda Street to see the area like never before, as your
rider takes you through the most interesting sights and sounds
of this charming locale. Ask the rider to stop at a calligraphy
shop to get a traditional idiom on rice paper, based on your
names or zodiac signs. Sample the many flavours of Chinese tea
at the many tea houses along Neil Road, Pagoda Street or Temple
Street. If you feel the need for a nibble, stop for some dim sum
or desserts.
While you’re here, check out the fashion on offer, with
cheongsams for the ladies and matching suits for the men. You
can have an enjoyable time helping each other pick out just the
right outfit, without having to spend a fortune. You’ll end up
with outfits that you can wear as a couple, for dinner parties
and celebrations.
After a whole day of walking, save a little time for a relaxing
and invigorating foot massage. There’s nothing like it to soothe
away tension and aches, and end your day on a p l e a s a n t n o t e .
Here’s a tip: With all the photos taken during the date, make
caricatures of you and your date at www.portraitworkshop.com or
www.portraitstudio.com.sg. You can use the caricatures to design
a t-shirt for your date and get it printed at Sunshine Plaza or
Bras Basah Complex.
Sunshine Plaza
91 Bencoolen Street
Bras Basah
Complex
Blk 233 Bain Street
#04-11
Reminiscence Of The Past 21
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
From the Nile to the Indus, rivers have been the lifeblood of
civilisation since the dawn of Man. Singapore too, has its river
to thank for its early trade. Early settlers here came up the river
to trade goods. Sir Stamford Raffles sailed in via the river too,
and his statue still stands proudly by it. The swarms of bumboats, godowns and shophouses that once thronged it have been
replaced by hotels, entertainment outlets and shopping centres,
opening it up for recreational use. It’s an ideal setting for a
romantic evening.
A RIDE THROUGH HISTORY
Embark on a cruise down the river in the afternoon with HiPPo
River Cruise or Singapore River Cruises & Leisure. From this
unique vantage point, low down on the water, the contrast in the
architecture by the river is obvious, from the Victorian buildings
built by the British and the Chinese shop houses from the early 20th
century, to the modern skyscrapers that tower over everything.
It’s a ride through the very history of the nation, and the
recorded commentary describes the various sites and their
historic significance as you go by them. There’s ample time
for your own romantic dalliances of course, and the history
lesson is purely optional.
There are two types of bumboat rides:
Singapore River Experience which
covers Boat Quay, Clarke Quay
and Marina Bay, and New River
Experience which includes
Robertson Quay, on top of the
Singapore River Experience.
Rather than just sitting in the
boat and taking in the view,
increase the fun quotient by
making your own ‘travel
documentary video’. Take
a vidoe of your date, as
you pretend to be a tour
guide explaining all
HiPPO River Cruise
Boarding location at Clarke
Quay (Beside Hooters)
Tel: 6338 6877
www.ducktours.com.sg
Price:
$15 (30 minutes tour),
$23 (full-day access pass)
22 Gorgeous Singapore River
Singapore River
Cruises & Leisure
Tel: 6336 6111 / 6336 6119
www.rivercruise.com.sg
Price: $15 (Singapore River
Experience), $20 (New
River Experience)
the sights. Plan a get-together next week to view the finished
product, and you’ll have another day of fun and laughter, plus
a special souvenir.
MAkE THE NIGHT SPECIAL
After your cruise, head to Boat Quay for dinner. Once a centre
of bumboat commerce, this area is now a colourful and popular
nightlife hub. There are a myriad of choices available, here are
some suggestions. Su Korean Cuisine
features three main dining areas – the
al fresco setting by the waterfront,
the first level of the shophouse and a
more private setting on the second.
If you’d prefer Italian food, there’s the
Pasta Fresca Da Salvatore restaurant
for a selection of great Italian food.
If you and your date are in the
mood for some fun and games after
dinner, head down to Pitstop Café.
There are interesting board games
available, as well as a great selection
of snacks, desserts and coffee. Go head to head on a few board
games, or team up against others. Board games can be addictive
fun, and more importantly, they let you enjoy one another’s
company in a brand new way. Feel free to invite a few of your
single friends to join the fun in the evening!
Su Korean Cuisine
40A Boat Quay
Tel: 6532 2904
www.sukorean.com
Pasta Fresca Da
Salvatore
30 Boat Quay
Tel: 6532 6283
www.pastafresca.com
Pitstop Café
14B Circular Road
Tel: 6535 5383
www.pitstopcafe.com.sg
Opening Hours:
9am to 11pm daily
Gorgeous Singapore River 23
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
Tired of the usual dating scene, the hangouts, the nightlife
and watering holes? Want to inject a little bit of excitement
into your date? Then head down to Bedok Reservoir! And
before you dismiss it as another date in the park, think about
this...giant zip lines, swings, bridges, ladders, nets and trapezes.
Not what you’d expect at your run-of-the-mill
park, eh?
AN ADRENALIN JUNkIE’S PARADISE
Forest Adventure at Bedok Reservoir Park is far more than
another day at the park. It’s a modern adventure playground
you can share and enjoy with your date. You can even double
the excitement by making this a group date! It’s a heart
pounding, adrenalin-surging escapade as you zip through
the trees and foliage 5 metres above the ground, all amid the
pristine beauty and cool, clear air of Bedok Reservoir.
To get the most out of it, dress appropriately. Sports shoes
are a must (anyone wearing sandals or loose fitting shoes
will not be allowed on the course). We also recommend bermudas
or trousers, clothes that you wouldn’t mind getting a little
dirty. You’ll be wearing a helmet, and you may want to bring
a bandana as you may find it more comfortable. Some
participants also prefer to protect their hands by wearing
bicycle gloves. Take a picture of each other in your sporty
attire for fond memories!
We recommend making a booking. Without one, the wait f o r
an available slot can be up to an hour during busy
p e r i o d s . I t t a k e s a b o ut 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete
the Grand Course.
date are enjoying your meals, watch the professional skiers
demonstrate their skills with some thrilling tricks. It might
even inspire you to have a go at wakeboarding (perhaps not
immediately after dinner though!). SKI360 Wakeboarding
School is the only one in Singapore that runs courses and
programmes on cable wakeboarding. With their experienced,
dedicated instructors, you’ll be able to pick up the sport and
have fun with your date!
Take an after-dinner stroll along East Coast Park and indulge
in a little stargazing. Of course, stargazing as a couple is
less a b o u t t h e s t a r s t h a n a b o u t e a c h o t h e r . L o o k o u t f o r
t h e c o n stellations, and if you don’t know their names, make
up some together! It can be an amazing time with a little
forethought. Just remember to bring a mat with you and
find a wnice comfy place to stretch out next to each other in
the darkness, with the sounds of the breaking waves in the
background, and the millions of heavenly lights in the sky.
What could be a more romantic way to end the night?
AN EVENING BY THE COAST
After your Forest Adventure, head down
to The 360 Restaurant and Bar at East
Coast Park (next to the seafood centre) for
dinner. Here yo u can e nj o y a casual mea l
f or a re aso nabl e price, and with a
unique view of the open sea and the
water skiing lagoon. While you and your
Forest Adventure
Bedok Reservoir Park
825 Bedok Reservoir Road
Tel: 8100 7420
www.forestadventure.com.sg
24 Adventure Seekers
Operating Hours:
10am to 6pm daily
Last departure at 4.30pm
Price: $36
Note: Coin lockers
are available. Do arrive
at least 10 minutes early
for the compulsory
safety briefing.
The 360 Restaurant
and Bar
1206A East Coast Parkway
(Carpark E1)
Tel: 6442 5718
www.ski360degree.com
Adventure Seekers 25
Duration
Morning to Evening
Sentosa offers a rich vein of experiences, many of them
perfect for dates. You could plan a date with a Culture or
Nature t hem e, b ut d o s p are a t ho u ght fo r what yo ur dat e
m i g h t prefer. If you don’t know him/her well enough, ask.
It’s better to give up a little element of surprise and
delight, than to have a date who is bored or unhappy! Once
you know which direction your date is going, work out your
options keeping both you and your date’s interests, as well
as your budget, in mind. That should make for a memorable
date you’ll both remember for some time to come, for all the
right reasons!
There are several options on how to get to and around
S e n tosa, including the Sentosa Express and buses. After
m e e t i n g up , h ead ac r os s t o Imbi ah St at i o n and be gi n yo u r
ascent to Imbiah Lookout. Here you can opt for breakfast
at Delifrance, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, or the traditional
toast and egg, all with a grand view of the Singapore skyline
and port laid out before you.
THE NATURAL OPTION
Take the nature route to Sentosa Nature Discovery, where
you can learn about the birds, insects, wildlife, plants and
habitats that can be found on the island. There’s a gallery of
interactive exhibits that will give you a better understanding
of what you are about to see as you step out into the Imbiah
forest reserve. The 1.8km Nature Walk features an elevated
boardwalk that was formerly the monorail track, giving you
a close up view of the wildlife and vegetation. Check out
insectivorous plants such as the Pitcher plants and Tembusu
trees, as well as other animal and bird species. Take your
time through the trails. Then head to the Sentosa 4D Magix
for a mind-blowing show full of visual effects, surround
sound, motion seat and “live”environmental effects such
as water spray, designed to engage all your senses!
Sentosa
Tel: 1800-SENTOSA (7368672)
www.sentosa.com.sg
Price:
Admission fee into Sentosa and
various attractions vary.
Log on to www.sentosa.com.sg
for more details.
26 Your Perfect Day At Sentosa
THE CULTURAL wAY
If you’d prefer the cultural route, start off at the Images of
Singapore exhibit, where legend, fact and folklore are creatively
interwoven to paint a portrait of the soul of Singapore, its
cultural diversity, history and values. Winner of the 2005
Themed Entertainment Association Award for Outstanding
Achievement in “Reinvention of a Cultural Heritage Centre”, it
is a must-visit for all! Then have a blast at Desperados, a 20-seat
cinema that offers patrons a virtual shootout, Wild West style!
Complete with motion-based saddles and hand-held laser guns,
you and your date will have a super time as you blast your way
through this animated movie.
BOOST YOUR ENERGY
All your fun and adventure is bound to build up your appetite, so
it’s great that there’s a variety of delicious options available for
lunch. Share a pizza at Sarpino’s Pizzeria or
enjoy a 3-course western set lunch at
The Arches. Re-energised, head
down for more fun at Universal
Studios within Resorts World
Singapore. The fun-filled
movie theme rides range
from kid-friendly boat
rides to adrenalin-charged
roller coasters! It’s
immersive entertainment
that brings silver screen
memories to life!
Sarpino’s Pizzeria
Imbiah Station
Tel: 6275 7727
www.sarpinos.com.sg
The Arches
Imbiah Station
Tel: 6270 7517
www.arches.com.sg
Universal Studios
Singapore
Waterfront Station
Tel: 6577 8888
www.rwsentosa.com
Price:
1-Day Weekday Pass: $66
1- Day Weekend Pass: $72
Operating Hours:
Weekdays: 9am to 6pm
Sundays & Public Holidays:
9am to 6pm
Your Perfect Day At Sentosa 27
ROMANCE BY THE SEA
As the sun sets and you’re looking to end the evening with
a romantic dinner, Sentosa has options that you won’t find
anywhere else in Singapore. At Palawan Beach, try the
unique cuisine of Braise, with an open view of the beach at
dusk. If you prefer a good Chinese meal, Silk Road of the
Sea Restaurant & Bar serves succulent seafood, including
Alaskan King Crabs and Abalone.
After dinner, it is time for some sit-down entertainment at
Songs of the Sea. It is perfect for a little post-dinner relaxation, a mesmerizing show with a live cast and dramatic
pyrotechnics, water jets, lasers and computer imaging.
Take the cable car* ride from Sentosa back to Mount Faber if
you want a view from high above. You even have the option
of combining this with Sky Dining, a private dining option
that will give your date a magical, romantic high-point, with
spectacular night views of Sentosa.
Extracted from the winning entry of the “Plan a Romantic
Date at Sentosa” contest. Contributor: Seth Yap.
Braise
Beach Station
Level 2
Tel: 6271 1929
www.braise.com.sg
* Closed for upgrading until second quarter of 2010
28 Your Perfect Day At Sentosa
Silk Road of the Sea
Restaurant & Bar
Beach Station
Amara Sanctuary
Tel: 6377 4248
Songs of the Sea
Beach Station
Time:
7.40pm and 8.40pm daily
Price: $10
You can either purchase
the tickets on the spot
or book them online at
tickets.sentosa.com.sg
Your Perfect Day At Sentosa 29
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
Here’s a tip: not every date has to be packed with activities.
There are times, especially after you’ve gotten to know each
other a little, hanging out together can be fun. And it just so
happens that we know about a couple of places where you
can spend a quiet day out.
CURL UP wITH A GOOD BOOk, AND A FRIEND
One great venue for just such a date is the Book Café, a chic
bistro that’s a hangout for book lovers and those looking for
a relaxed ambience. It is located just off the main Mohamed
Sultan area, so it isn’t too off the beaten track, yet seems
a world away from the bustle of the city. Perhaps it’s the
overstuffed sofas and the racks of books, magazines, travel
guides and an eclectic selection of fiction, and the café feels
more like someone’s living room than an eatery.
Have a drink or a meal with your date, as you leaf through
the diverse selection of books and magazines. Share any
interesting books and articles; enjoy a laugh or moment of
inspiration. You could also bring a laptop and surf the net
with your date as there is free wireless internet connection. If
you want to go a little further, surprise your date
with a little pre-planning and careful
coordination. Guys, arrange for a bouquet
of your date’s favourite flowers to be
delivered to her there. Ladies, you
can arrange for a small cake to be
delivered to your date!
JOIE DE VIVRE - THE
JOY OF LIVING
As the evening approaches,
take a walk over to Robertson
Quay. A more laid-back
c o u n t e r p a r t to Boat Quay, it
offers a tranquil atmosphere
and is just a short distance away.
The Brasserie Wolf by the
Singapore river is highly recommended,
The Book Café
20 Martin Road
#01-02 Seng Kee Building
Tel: 6887 5430
30 A Lazy Day By The River
Brasserie Wolf
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
Tel: 6835 7818
www.esmirada.com
with its relaxed ambience and the culinary standards and
service of a fine dining restaurant. It wouldn’t hurt to pick
up some basic French phrases to impress your date!
If you’d like to sip a glass of fine wine at a cosy, romantic
atmosphere, try Provignage The Wine Cave. It exudes its own
mystery and charm with low lighting and an underground
theme. Finger food is available. Enjoy the music and wine as
you sit in your own corner, sharing a little private time.
TRUTHFULLY, wOULD YOU DARE?
While having dinner, you can have a simple game of truth
or dare. No, truth or dare is not just for teenagers, it can also
be a fun free romantic game for dates as well. It works like
this: you ask your partner “truth or dare?” and your partner
chooses one. If your partner chooses “truth” then you can ask
them a question about everything. Be careful not to tread on
overly sensitive topics, or it might not end up being much of
a game at all! You can ask things like “what’s your favourite
childhood memory?” or “what are 3 things you like about
me?” for example. If your partner chooses dare, it’s up to you
to come up with a challenge for your partner to do. “Sing I’m
a Little Teapot with all the actions” or “do your best famous
person impersonation” are all good examples. Have fun but
do exercise a little sensitivity too!
While you’re in the neighbourhood, catch a performance at
the Singapore Repertory Theatre, just next door. Check out
www.srt.com.sg to find out if there’s something you and your
date would like to watch, and do book beforehand to ensure
you get seats!
Provignage The
Wine Cave
30 Robertson Quay
#01-12 Riverside View
Tel: 6834 1490
Singapore
Repertory Theatre
DBS Arts CentreHome of SRT
20 Merbau Road
Tel: 6221 5585
www.srt.com.sg
A Lazy Day By The River 31
Duration
Morning to Evening
If you want to create a date with a cosmopolitan touch, try a walk
in the museum and a shopping trip at Orchard Road. Sensible
shoes are a must on this date. Sure, you’ll be visiting a couple of
museums and strolling along Orchard Road, but for ladies, those
fashionable heels may not be the wisest choice. Better to opt for a
pair of sneakers or low heels and sacrifice a little style for comfort!
A CULTURE COMES ALIVE
Start out by exploring the colourful history of the Peranakan
Culture at the Peranakan Museum. This journey brings you back
in time in an enjoyable educational experience. You’ll learn the
history of the Peranakan people, and how they originated in
the former Straits Settlements of Singapore, Malacca and Penang.
It’s an eye-opener to one of our living cultures, and even if you are
Peranakan yourself, it provides an insight on how the culture came
to be.
BEFORE THERE wAS EMAIL
Just a few minutes walk from the Peranakan
Museum and you’ll reach the Singapore
Philatelic Museum. Here you’ll find out
about our early philatelic history and heritage,
and see rare archival materials issued during
the early Straits Settlements period.
Look back at the history of postage, when
love letters could take days, weeks or even
months to reach their eager recipients, a far
cry indeed from the virtually instant electronic
options we’ve grown used to today!
wHO IS THE BETTER SHOPPER?
Later in the day visit Orchard Road, not just for an ordinary spot
of shopping, but to take our Two-hour Shopping Challenge! Create
a list of three unique items you and your partner can search for.
It helps to be a little open and creative about what you need to find,
and leave some room for interpretation. The gifts need not be
expensive but should be thoughtful. Set a budget for the three
gifts, perhaps $80, or whatever you both feel comfortable with.
Remember to ask for the items to be gift-wrapped, and keep the
receipts for proof, or for refunds. The suggested malls for gift hunting
are Far East Plaza, Wheelock Place, ION Orchard, Wisma Atria or
Ngee Ann City.
At each mall, you may both split up to look for gifts. Give yourselves
about 30 minutes at each mall, then move on to the next even if you
haven’t found anything. Take a breather between malls over a cuppa
or cake.
At the end of the route,
get together with your
date, exchange gifts, and
explain why you have
chosen those gifts. This
stage could lead to some
hilarious results, with
intent and execution not
always coming together.
The one with the most
meaningful gifts wins a
dinner treat from the other.
Peranakan Museum
39 Armenian Street
Tel: 6332 7591
www.peranakanmuseum.sg
Singapore Philatelic Museum
23B Coleman Street
Tel: 6337 3888
www.spm.org.sg
Operating Hours:
Mon: 1pm to 7pm
Tue to Sun: 9.30am to 7pm
(Till 9pm on Fri)
Price: $6
Operating Hours:
Mon: 1pm to 7pm
Tue to Sun: 9am to 7pm
Price: $5
32 Look Spiffy And Dazzling
Look Spiffy And Dazzling 33
TELL A TALE, SPIN A YARN
Or if you are game for a Photographic Story Challenge,
arm yourself with a camera as you go about your shopping date.
Create a silly story line and go around taking photos of each other
along Orchard Road to tell the story of your adventure. The sillier
the story, the better! You could be a master spy and a femme fatale
out in search of a stolen biological weapon, or a paranormal
investigator checking out a tip about aliens in Orchard Road. Learn
to use your camera’s self-timer, and find locations where you can
place the camera to take a photo of the both of you. Feel free
to add photos of celebrities and other items afterwards. Your
project is to put everything together, with written captions and
descriptions to illustrate your wild and whacky storyline, to be
presented at your next date.
34 Look Spiffy And Dazzling
Look Spiffy And Dazzling 35
Duration
Morning to Afternoon
RECOMMENDED FOR GROUP DATING FOR 6-8 PERSONS.
wHAT IS GOkON?
‘Gokon’, a Japanese word that translates to having a ‘combined
party’, is a group dating trend in which friends bring friends
to introduce to the group over dinner, drinks and activities. The
group has to be made up of an equal number of men and women.
IT’S TIME FOR A BATTLE
Get your friends together and raise the thrill factor with an
adrenalin-pumping game of paintball! A huge step beyond FPS
(first-person shooter) games, a game of paintball is far more
visceral and ‘real’ than any video game, precisely because it is real
– real paintball projectiles, real shooting, and real running around
obstacles. Paintballs are a lot safer than real bullets though, so you
can still walk away as friends at the end!
A game of paintball at the Red Dynasty Paintball Park, located at
Bottle Tree Park in Yishun, offers an incredible degree of fun and
excitement. Form two mixed teams and go head to head, compete
couple against couple, or go for individual glory, it’s up to you.
It’s a great way to break down barriers and get everyone to have
fun right from the start, perfect for first dates.
While you can form your own game rules, do obey the set safety
rules. Paintball is statistically safer than other contact sports, but
only if the rules are obeyed! Wear loose clothing and covered shoes,
such as sports shoes or soccer boots. To prevent ‘stinging’ from
paintball shots, you might want to wear long-sleeved shirts and
long pants.
You will have to book your session before you go. Since you are
going to get dirty, do bring an extra set of clothing, including
shoes and socks, towels, soap and a comb/hairbrush. After you’ve
cleaned up, you can have lunch at Bottle Tree Park. Take the
time to find out about the trees on your way there.
MUSIC & MEMORIES
At the park, you can choose from a range of eateries. The Japanese
bar and seafood restaurant serves a wide variety of raw and cooked
dishes. After lunch, let yourself be ‘pampered’ by live fish at the
fish spa or take part in activities such as prawning and fishing.
Grab a rod and hope to get a bite or two in the allocated time.
Which couple will walk away with the biggest catch? Remember
to bring a camera along so you won’t miss the fun, smiles and
laughter of the evening.
INFORMATION
Bottle Tree Park
81 Lorong Chencharu (Yishun)
Tel: 6759 7077 (Restaurant)
www.bottletree.com.sg
Red Dynasty Paintball Park
(Bottle Tree Park)
Tel: 6755 7537
www.weplaypaintball.com
Operating Hours:
Mon to Fri: 9am to 9pm
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays:
9am to 7pm (Advance
booking required)
36 Battle Of Gokon
Long Kang Fishing (Bottle Tree Park)
Operating Hours:
9am to 12am daily (Every Thu from 11am
to 12am)
Price: $10 (Tank & net provided)
Fishes available: Red Guppy, Ribbons,
Swordtail, Pacu, Goldfish, Molly
Battle Of Gokon 37
Here’s a tip on how to make your photos more fun and unique: use
the online editing service at www.loonapix.com. Experiment with the
various templates, effects and photo frames to get just the photos
you want. And did we mention? This great photo-enhancing tool
is absolutely free to use! If time allows, you could also pair up as
couples to enjoy a ride on the lake in Swan Paddling. Here on the
tranquil waters in a peaceful environment, you and your date can
be alone for a while. Use the opportunity to chat and discover a
bit more about each other.
Think you have a great singing voice and could be the next
Singapore Idol? Put yourself to the test in front of your date at the
Party World KTV at Northpoint, pick some nice duets and karaoke
the rest of the day with your friends. Karaoke may not be the most
romantic thing to do on a date if both of you are not natural singers,
but it will more than likely bring on the laughs and smiles, and
that’s a good start to your relationship. It works especially well if
you’re not too hung up on what other people think about you!
There are games you can play as a couple, little twists that can
make the night even more fun and entertaining, even if you
aren’t really Singapore Idol material. Your date picks a song and
you must sing the song loudly, whether you know the song or not,
then vice versa. Or play Karaoke Sing-A-Round, where each of you
takes turns to sing one line each. With faster songs, this can easily
degenerate into more laughter than singing. But then, it isn’t really
a singing competition, is it? So just let loose and have fun, and see
where the evening takes you!
Prawn Fishing (Bottle Tree Park)
Operating Hours:
Mon to Thur: 9am to 2am
Fri, Sat, & Public Holidays:
9am to 3am
Price: $14.50 per hour, $29
per 2.5 hours or $43.50 per 4
hours (rods & baits are provided)
38 Battle Of Gokon
Swan Paddling
(Bottle Tree Park)
Operating Hours:
Sat, Sun, & Public Holidays:
5pm onwards
Price: $9 per 15-minute block
Party World KTV
930 Yishun Ave 2
#03-61 / 67 North Point
Tel: 6755 5533
www.partyworldktv.com.sg
Operating Hours:
11am to 2am daily
Battle Of Gokon 39
Duration
Morning to Afternoon
MacRitchie Reservoir is a justifiably popular place for a date, away
from the crowds of the city, with an abundance of nature all
around, and plenty of secluded nooks and crannies to spend some
quiet time together.
GET ABOVE IT ALL
If you and your date are up for it, ramp up your date at MacRitchie
with a little extra planning and a bit of extra walking! HSBC
TreeTop Walk, the first of its kind in the region, is a spectacular
canopy walk that lets you explore the forest from high above the
forest floor, up to 25 metres high in some places. The 250-metre
long walkway connects the two highest points in MacRitchie, Bukit
Peirce and Bukit Kalang, and offers a bird’s eye view of the trees
and plants that make up the forest canopy. The entrance to the
TreeTop Walk is about 4.5 kilometres (a 1.5-hour to 2-hour walk)
from the MacRitchie Reservoir or 2.5 kilometres (45 minutes to an
hour walk) from the carpark at Venus Drive. A round trip is around
7 to 10 kilometres, or about 3 to 5 hours depending on your pace, so
it’s best to plan it in advance. Do note that the walkway only allows
one-way traffic, and the entrance to the bridge is from the Ranger
Station via Peirce Track.
Bring enough water for a long day out, and perhaps some light
snacks to keep your energy up. You might also want to bring a hat
or cap, sunscreen, insect repellant, binoculars and a camera. Travel
light though, or you might regret it later!
After your adventure, stop for lunch along Upper Thomson Road,
an area that’s established itself as a food haven of sorts. Take your
pick from the diverse range of restaurants and cafés that line the
main road. Some recommendations include Miss Clarity’s Café,
a family-run establishment serving French influenced cuisine and
home-made desserts at reasonable prices. For some Asian delights,
there’s Daawat Tandoori’s North Indian food that features mouthwatering dishes such as butter chicken, palek paneer and aloo gobi.
A spa treatment and massage might be just the thing to take care
of all your little aches and lull you into a state of complete rest and
relaxation. There are a number of spa outlets along Upper Thomson
Road. One of them is Healing Touch, which offers different types
of massages and body scrubs.
Bring a tree/plant identification guide and you or your date can
take notes. What species did you identify along your walk? Were
there any species you couldn’t identify? If there were, take some
pictures so you can look them up later. Take plenty of pictures of
anything interesting along the way, not forgetting pictures of
yourselves! It’s a great way to make a fun event out of your hike
through the trails. What can you do with all those pictures? Here’s
a tip: create a photo mosaic. They are great gifts, either as online
images or printed. They can be easy to do too. Try out PicArtia,
a free mosaic tool at www.picartia.com.
HSBC TreeTop Walk
The TreeTop Walk is accessible
from MacRitchie Reservoir
Park via
1. MacRitchie Nature Trail
(indicated as Route 3 on map)
2. Venus Drive, off Upper
Thomson Road.
40 The Tree Top
Operating Hours:
Tue to Fri: 9am to 5pm
Weekends & Public Holidays:
8.30am to 5pm
(Closed on Monday)
Miss Clarity Café
205 Upper Thomson Road
Tel: 6256 2008
www.missclaritycafe.com
Daawat Tandoori
207 Upper Thomson
Road #01-44
Tel: 6252 4497
Healing Touch
199 Upper Thomson Road
Tel: 6352 4657
www.healingtouch.com.sg
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sun: 11.30am
to 11pm
Last session from 9.30pm
The Tree Top 41
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
Singapore’s relatively short history has seen migrants from
many different parts of Asia come to settle down and call it home
in the last 200 years. These migrants, our forefathers, brought with
them cultures and ways of life that were far more ancient.
TAkE A LOOk INTO THE PAST
The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) focuses on this aspect of
Singapore’ history, presenting a broad, yet integrated perspective
of Asian cultures and civilisations. It’s a potentially intriguing
venue for a date because you and your date could walk away
with a better appreciation of your forefathers and the cultures
of your ancestors. Check out the museum’s website for a preview
on current and upcoming exhibitions, and for information on
previous special exhibitions. The Egyptian, Kang Xi, Catholic and
Treasury of the World were all roaring successes.
Other than taking photos in the museum, do bring a sketchbook
to sketch your favourite artefact. Both you and your date could
do that, then spend some quiet moments later to compare note.
What was it about that artefact that attracted you? What does your
choice say about you?
At the souvenir shop, pick up an ethnic scarf, stationery or a postcard
for your date. On the postcard, write your date a note. You could
thank him or her for a wonderful day, or express yourself in any
way you wish. The souvenir shop also sells replicas of some of the
exhibits, so do look around. If there is any exhibit your date is
particularly interested in, a replica would be a wonderful gift
and keepsake.
DINE IN IMPERIAL STYLE
In the evening, enjoy an Imperial Dinner Cruise aboard the
Imperial Cheng Ho Vessel. Your cruise begins at the Marina South.
Be awed at the exact replica of a famous imperial vessel of the Ming
Dynasty with all the modern amenities one could want. Enjoy a fine
dinner with your date as you sail past one of the world’s busiest
ports, enjoying the views of picturesque islands and the spectacular
Singapore Flyer, the world’s largest observation wheel. Spend some
time out on deck enjoying the sea breeze, the wonderful view and
more importantly, each other’s company in a truly romantic setting.
Remember to make reservations for the cruise early, and for photos,
do bring a camera with a good night-mode function. Later, as you
sort through your photos, you might want to add a little fun and
humour to them. Try out Anymaking (www.anymaking.com), which
lets you simulate a vintage image, create a ‘Wanted’ sign, or even
add puzzle effects to it. Share the best results with your date!
Asian Civilization Museum
1 Empress Place
Tel: 6332 7798
www.acm.org.sg
Operating Hours:
Mon: 1pm to 7pm
Tue to Sun: 9am to 7pm
(Till 9pm on Fri)
Price: $8
42 Contemporary Ethnic Museum
Singapore Flyer
30 Raffles Avenue
Tel: 6334 9622
Imperial Cheng Ho
Cruise Watertours Pte Ltd
31 Marina Coastal Drive
#01-09 Marina South Pier
Tel: 6533 9811
www.watertours.com.sg
Departure Time:
6.30pm for Imperial Dinner cruise,
departure at Marina South Pier
Price: $55
Contemporary Ethnic Museum 43
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
Loosen up and enjoy an activity-filled day by the bay! Marina
Bay boasts a variety of fun activities to liven up your date and
provide some cherished, amusing memories.
TRY A LITTLE AMPHIBIOUS SIGHTSEEING
Start your date in the afternoon with a spin on the wacky duck,
with DUCKtours. This first-of-its-kind experience in Asia offers
you a unique 60-minute fun-filled tour of downtown Singapore,
crossing over from land to the water and back again, without
having to change vehicles. One moment you’ll be seeing the
downtown skyline from the waters of the Marina Bay; a while
later you’ll be right in the middle of downtown Singapore!
The amphibious tour takes place in a genuine Vietnam war vehicle.
Don’t worry, you won’t get wet in the DUCK. Do bring a camera
and take plenty of pictures of the scenery and of each other.
When you’re back on dry land, take a ride on the Heritage
HiPPotours! Enjoy the major heritage sights of Chinatown, Little
India, Kampong Glam (Arab Muslim enclave), historic Civic
District and beyond, from the open-top double-decker bus. If you
spot any interesting place or sight, you can hop-off at any of the
33 stops along the route to browse, shop or take pictures at your
own pace. Then hop on the next bus that comes along; buses arrive
every 25 minutes. The Heritage HiPPOtours offers unparalleled
photo-taking opportunities, with full 360°panoramic views as you
travel along your route. To make the photos more fun and creative,
set yourself a theme. It can be ‘happiness’, ‘love’, ‘frustration’ or
anything you can think of. For example, should both of you agree
on a ‘happiness’ theme, you can take anyone or anything you see
along the route that represents happiness.
SIT BACk & BE ENTERTAINED
As the evening approaches, catch a performance at the esplanade.
From live theatre to musical concerts, you’ll find world-class
performances here. If you already know your date well enough,
you might want to book tickets for a performance in advance.
DUCKtours
Suntec City Galleria
3 Temasek Boulevard
Tel: 6338 6877
www.ducktours.com.sg
Heritage HiPPOtours
Suntec City Galleria:
3 Temasek Boulevard
Tel: 6338 6877
www.ducktours.com.sg
Operating Hours:
10am to 6pm daily
Price: $33
Operating Hours:
10am to 10pm daily
Price: $33
44 Romance By The Bay
Otherwise, it would be better to decide what you want to watch
together. It may be less of a surprise, but that’s better than getting
tickets for a performance your date won’t enjoy!
You and your date will probably be ready for a nice dinner
before the show, and you’ll be spoilt for choice at the Esplanade.
Experience the rich Peranakan heritage in their food, at Simply
Peranakan Cuisine. Only the freshest ingredients and a select
choice of spices are used to preserve the authentic Peranakan taste.
The original izakaya in Japan were traditional pubs in Japan,
housed in old buildings and frequented by Japanese salarymen.
They were often places to unwind and socialise after a long day
at work, over copious amounts of sake, wine, spirits and snacks.
For unique izakaya-style dining, try Tomo Izakaya. In the modern
version of izakaya-style dining, small dishes such as robatayaki,
yakitori, sushi, ramen, soba, and karaage are shared, paired with
sakes, shochus, beers, wines and spirits, but the cheerful spirit sets
it apart from ordinary Japanese restaurants.
After dinner, check out the shops at the Esplanade. There could
be something you could get that would put a smile on your date’s
face, like the movie posters and collectibles at PopCornPop. You
could also try your hands at the Cool Bear Workstation. Simply
follow a step-by-step process and in a few minutes you would have
produced your very own teddy bear! Don’t forget to brainstorm
together on a name!
Esplanade
1 Esplanade Drive
Tel: 6828 8377
www.esplanade.com
or for performances go
to www.sistic.com.sg
Simply Peranakan Cuisine
Esplanade #02-12
Tel: 6333 9382
www.simplyperanakan.com
Romance By The Bay 45
By the end of your date, you’ll probably have taken dozens of
photographs. Instead of presenting them in the usual photo album,
how about using some of them to create fake magazine covers. It’s
an easy process with Magmypic (www.magmypic.com). Choose
from a wide range of covers to create the theme and mood that’s
just right! Your date is bound to appreciate your thoughtfulness.
Tomo Izakaya
Esplanade #01-09
Tel: 6333 0012
46 Romance By The Bay
POPCORNPOP Movie
Memorabilia Specialist
Esplanade #02-17
Tel: 6333 5623
www.popcornpop.com
Cool Bear Workstation
Esplanade #02-05
Tel: 6338 2556
www.coolbearworkstation.com
Romance By The Bay 47
Duration
Morning to Afternoon
Heat up your date by getting freezing cold in Snow City!
The first permanent indoor snow centre in Singapore brings
you the experience of fun in the snow, right here in the tropics.
Snowtube, snowboard or ski around the slopes, or give your date
a ride on a sleigh in this magical winter wonderland. Jackets and
boots will be provided on admission, but you need to bring a
pair of long pants. Once you are tired, chill out at the ice bar for
a drink.
FOLLOw THE SCIENCE
For most of us, science was something we studied in school to get
through our exams. But even if you aren’t a science enthusiast, the
exhibits in the Science Centre Singapore present everything from
everyday science to advanced concepts in unique and fun ways.
Science is a lot more fun here than you probably remember it being in
school! There’s even a display area on climate change, a hot topic
these days for just about everyone. All in all, it promises
to be a great venue for a date. Here’s a tip:
check out the special package rates for
admission to the Science Centre and
Omni-Theatre / Snow City at the Science
Centre website.
There’s probably too much to cover in one
visit (there are 1,000 exhibits in all), so you
and your date should decide beforehand
which of the galleries interest you the
most. You could make it even more
interesting by taking each other on in a
challenge! After your visit, sit in a quiet
corner and write down as many names of
inventors or scientists you remember from
the exhibits. The one with the longer and accurate
list wins! The loser will pay for a souvenir of the winner’s choice.
Snow City
Snow City Building
21 Jurong Town Hall Road
www.snowcity.com.sg
Price: $16 per hour, $27 for
two hours, includes entry to
Snow City & Science Centre.
48 Love At First Science
Operating Hours:
9.45am to 5.15pm daily
(6pm on School &
Public Holidays) Closed
on Monday (except
School & Public Holidays)
CATCH A MOVIE LIkE NO OTHER
Afterwards, take the opportunity to catch a spectacular IMAX movie
at the omni-Theatre. The most immersive movie experience around,
it features crystal clear images and surround sound that puts you in
the middle of the action. The educational films covered genres such as
science, space, nature, animals, marine life, culture, natural disasters
and more. For a list of current movies and show times, check out
www.omnitheatre.com.sg.
AN ENCHANTING DINNER VENUE
For dinner, head down to Rochester Park, an enclave of unique
restaurants housed in old colonial houses in a charming rustic
landscape. Feel like some American Southwest Cuisine? Then try the
North Border Bar & grill, and don’t miss their signature baby back
ribs or rack or lamb. If you and your date are in more of a mood
for Italian, the Da Paolo Bistro Bar serves great pizza, pasta and
grilled items.
Rochester Park offers a relaxing ambience that may help you get
the conversation going, especially if you and your date aren’t that
familiar with each other yet. Funny stories and amusing anecdotes are
always good, light-hearted ice-breakers, but don’t hog the conversation,
and encourage your date to contribute his or her share. If you’re in
the mood for a little fun, or to energise a conversation that’s gone a
little flat, try the name game, where one person says a name (someone
famous, someone you know or a random name — it doesn’t matter)
and the next player must quickly think of a name that begins with the
last letter of the previous name, and so forth. The first player to miss
a name or take too long will do a forfeit, and the game goes on.
Science Centre Singapore
15 Science Centre Road
Tel: 6425 2500
www.science.edu.sg
Price: $6
Omni-Theatre
21 Jurong Town Hall Road,
Singapore 609433
Tel: 6425 2500
www.omnitheatre.com.sg
Operating Hours:
10am to 6pm daily
Closed on Monday (except
School & Public Holidays)
Operating hours:
10am to 8pm daily
Closed on Mon (except
School & Public Holidays)
Rochester Park
1 Rochester Park
North Border Bar &
Grill (Rochester Park)
Tel: 6777 6618
www.northborder.com.sg
Da Paolo Bistro Bar
(Rochester Park)
Tel: 6774 5537
www.dapaolo.com.sg
Love At First Science 49
Duration
Morning to Evening
TOYS…wE ALL LOVE THEM
If your idea of museums is drab display cases full of dusty old
artefacts, then perhaps you haven’t visited one in a while,
not the Mint Museum of Toys anyway. Enjoy the
unique collection of vintage toys from over 40
countries and spanning over 150 years. Be captivated by
the nostalgic childhood memories and amazed at some
of the ingenuity and artistry. There is something for
everyone here. As you stroll through the museum with
your date, share about the toys both of you had in your
childhood. Which were your favourites and why did
you cherish them? The answers tell you and your date
something about each other. Sum up your museum visit
with an intimate meal at Mr Punch Restaurant at the
basement, or head up to Mr Punch Rooftop Winebar to
enjoy the scenic city view while you savour a glass of Mr
Punch Cocktail & Ms Judy mocktail, each specially
concocted for the gentleman and the lady respectively.
Before you leave, pay a visit to the Mint Shop.
Remember what your date revealed to you about his/
her favourite toys? See if you can find something for your date
as a souvenir.
A LITTLE HISTORY CAN’T HURT
Next stop is the National Museum of Singapore. Besides a good
way for you and your date to escape the afternoon heat while
soaking in some history and culture, you will also find the exhibits
far more fascinating than you had imagined.
Among the permanent exhibitions, you’ll find living galleries
that offer snippets of local life through the years – galleries on
food, fashion, photography, film and wayang, things that might
evoke memories of grandma’s old stories of kampong cinemas, or
grandpa’s reminiscing the days of a 10¢ bowl of noodles. Share
your memories with your date. You might be surprised that both
your grandparents shared very similar stories, or perhaps vastly
Mint Museum of Toys
26 Seah Street
Tel: 6339 0660
www.emint.com
Operating Hours:
9.30am to 6.30pm daily
Price: $15
50 Journey Through Time
National Museum
of Singapore
93 Stamford Road
Tel: 6332 3659
www.nationalmuseum.sg
Operating Hours:
Singapore History Gallery
10am to 6pm daily
Last admission at 5.30pm
different ones. These little exchanges are the basis of building
connection and rapport, and are necessary foundations for
building your relationship.
The halls and spaces outside the exhibition rooms are usually
quiet, so you and your date might want to shoot your own videos
here. Ask your date to act out a 30-second to 1-minute
monologue on his/her favourite topic as you shoot the video.
Then reverse your roles. Choose topics that are close to your
heart, inject a little humour, shoot an interview format, or even
add a song. Later, review your clips and act as film critics for
each other. Be fair in your criticism, but accept them too. Part of
building a relationship is accepting and respecting differences
in opinions, and knowing that you don’t need to be ‘perfect’
in each other’s eyes.
Before you leave, drop by the Museum Shop and find a piece of
‘history’ for your date to bring home. The Museum Shop features
an affordable range of museum-inspired merchandise, Asian
crafts, objet d’art, ethnic apparel and accessories.
As dusk draws in, head down to VivoCity for dinner, armed
with our recommendations.
. New Zealand green shell and premium Australian
black-blue mussels are the star attractions of The
VivoCity
1 HarbourFront Walk
Singapore Living Galleries
10am to 8pm daily
Last admission at 7.30pm
Free admission from 6pm
to 8pm daily
Price: $10
The Mussel
Guys Restaurant
VivoCity #02-123
Tel: 6820 1800
www.musselguys.com.sg
Journey Through Time 51
.
.
Mussel guys Restaurant. Steamed or baked, they
come in a variety of dressing to bring out their
natural sweetness. Steak, lamb and poultry dishes
are available for all meat lovers.
Fig & olive pays homage to olive oil, which gives that
healthy touch to offerings such as Fish & Chips and the
signature Grilled Dory Mushroom pasta.
Brotzeit’ is a Bavarian expression for a small meal or
snack which is traditionally accompanied by a fresh
beer. Brotzeit Beer Bar & Restaurant honours these
traditions, with authentic German and European food
in a suitable setting.
ENJOY A MOVIE IN LUxURY
Plan to finish your dinner in time to catch a movie at golden
Village (GV) Vivocity Gold Class Cinema. GV VivoCity sets a new
benchmark for Singapore cineplexes by offering a sophisticated
club ambience, 5-star menu and a private dining room. Enjoy the
sheer luxury of plush reclining seats, private lounges and
an unprecedented concierge-style service from the moment
you arrive.
Do note that movies are rarely the best choice for
first dates because of the lack of conversation.
It’s important to include your date in
the selection process because movie
tastes vary widely. It is also a way to
learn about his/her interests, likes
and sense of humor. It helps to check
out reviews and opinions of friends
whom have watched the movie. You
wouldn’t want your
day to be ruined by
a bad movie.
End the day at a cosy
coffee house or late night
eatery to share a dessert
and drink and to have a little
chat, about the day, the movie or
anything under the sun.
Fig & Olive
VivoCity #02-116
Tel: 6376 9269
www.figolive.com
52 Journey Through Time
Brotzeit Beer Bar
& Restaurant
VivoCity #01-149 to 151
Tel: 6272 8815
www.brotzeit1516.com
Golden Village Gold Class
VivoCity #02-30/ #03-04
Tel: 1900 912 1234
www.gv.com.sg
Price: $28
Journey Through Time 53
Duration
Afternoon to Evening
It’s said that the sexiest organ in the human body is the one
between the ears. For some, the human brain’s ability to shape
the world is derived from another ability - the ability to imagine.
It’s the creative streak that runs through all of us, but is most
apparent in the eye of the painter, sculptor or photographer.
It’s the ability to see things not only as they are, but from a new
perspective. Step into the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) and
try to decipher the language of art for yourselves.
ART FOR ALL
To date, SAM has amassed the world’s largest public collection
of modern and contemporary Southeast Asian artwork, and its
selection of international contemporary art is growing rapidly as
well. With over 7000 contemporary and modern Singapore and
Southeast Asian artworks, and over 1000 pieces from its Tyler
Print Collection, the collection includes paintings, sculptures,
multimedia installations, drawings, prints, photographs and
more. You and your date can have an amazing time going
through the exhibits, coming up with your own interpretations
of the artwork, before reading about them.
Add some fun and laughter to your date by trying out your own
artistic abilities. All it takes is a couple of A3 sketchpads, pencils
and erasers. Pick subjects such as street scenes or still lifes and
work in a style you like. Perhaps some of the works you saw in
the museum earlier could inspire you. Ask your date to rate your
results, perhaps to compare it with the artist whose style you
admired. Absolute artistic ability isn’t as important as having fun
doing things together, so don’t take the exercise too seriously!
HEAVENLY DELIGHTS
Dinner at Clarke Quay is a wonderful choice, where the only
danger is being overwhelmed by the choices available. How about
a touch of Persian cuisine at Shiraz which offers a healthy
combination of premium long grain fragrant rice with meat,
Singapore Art Museum
71 Bras Basah Road
Tel: 6332 3222
www.singaporeartmuseum.sg
54 Art To Heart Talk
Operating Hours:
Mon to Sun: 10am to 7pm
(Till 9pm on Fri)
Price: $10
Free admission from 6pm till
9pm on Fri
chicken or fish, served with garlic, onion, vegetables, nuts and
herbs. There are great appetisers, savoury wines and yummy
desserts, perhaps even the chance to watch a little belly dancing!
Or if you’d prefer, Casa-Z serves French cuisine with a panoramic
riverside view of the skyline, a romantic setting indeed, especially
at dusk.
PLAY AND UNwIND
After dinner, why not chill out at Attica, which offers four
different bar concepts: al fresco bar, balinese-inspired courtyard,
cosy lounge, and dance club. Want something more exotic?
How about Café Iguana, Singapore’s only contemporary Mexican
restaurant and bar, which houses an extensive collection of over
100 kinds of 100% blue agave tequila.
What are drinks without some drinking games? If you and your
date don’t know any, try one called “Buzz”.
You only need a drink to start. Start
counting at “1”, each player taking
alternate numbers. When you
reach “7” the player whose turn
it is says “Buzz” instead of “7”.
The same thing happens at
every multiple of 7 (14, 21 and
so on). If the player says the
Shiraz
3A River Valley Road
#01-06 Clarke Quay
Tel: 6334 2282
www.shirazfnb.com
Casa-Z
3C River Valley Road
#01-01 Clarke Quay
Tel: 6339 6365
Attica
3A River Valley Road
#01-03 Clarke Quay
Tel: 6333 9973
www.attica.com.sg
Art To Heart Talk 55