With this comprehensive things-to-do itinerary in Tiong Bahru’s top attractions and hidden gems, you may explore the hidden alleyways and bustling streets on foot while taking in its heritage and cultural sights. Have fun exploring!

1. MURALS HUNT. These carefully crafted murals echo the familiar stories of life in HDB estates, sending a wave of nostalgia that is sure to strike a chord with many Singaporeans. The street art in Tiong Bahru is an artistic way to explore Singapore’s past across the last four decades. Local artist Yip Yew Chong designed several murals here to capture glimpses of the nation’s bygone days, some even making use of his personal family items. Some murals are the “Bird Corner” mural at Seng Poh Road, which tells the tale of bird singing competitions that were one held every week at Tiong Bahru. Other installations you can find are “Home”, where you can ‘check in’ on a local’s home and “Provision Shop”. To find out more about the backstory of these murals, click here: https://yipyc.com/blog/2016/11/11/the-story-of-ycs-tiong-bahru-murals/

2. EMBARK ON QUAINT LITTLE SHOPS @ TIONG BAHRU TOUR. Seek inspiration by exploring one of Singapore’s oldest housing district with an intriguing mix of old and new. From quaint little shops to hipster cafes and iconic murals, Tiong Bahru is a treasure trove of inspiration. In one of Singapore’s oldest housing district, the charming way where traditional merges with the new makes this an interesting place to spend your time. Let Tribe help you to discover Singapore the artsy way where we visit shops with absolute local flair.

Float into this art trail and understand the Singapore art scene. Appreciate the art deco architecture while learning about Singapore’s housing story. Go mural hunting and visit traditional businesses to discover what life was like in the 1970s. Immerse into dainty books and words of local writers, poets and artists who help uncover more of local lifestyles and mannerisms through the beauty of literature. Do a local food crawl to discover Singaporean’s favourite passion and local flavours. Let this 2.5 hours tour be filled with endless beautiful little things and memories! https://tribe-tours.com/product/quaint-little-shops-tiong-bahru/

3. MONKEY GOD TEMPLE. The Tiong Bahru Qi Tian Gong (齐天宫), more popularly known as the Tiong Bahru Monkey God Temple, was founded in 1920 in a small attap hut located within a taro garden just across Eng Hoon Street. At this temple, you can see more than ten statues of the Monkey God, the oldest of which is almost a century old. The trustees of this Temple claim that this was the very first temple in Singapore dedicated to the worship of the Monkey God. Look out for Uncle Lim, the chatty temple caretaker who’ll tell you all about the Monkey God and its many different incarnations. Visit this unique temple and learn more about its history!

4. PRE-WAR AIR RAID SHELTER. The air raid shelter at Blk 78 Guan Chuan Street occupies an area of 1,500 sqm and it could accommodate up to an estimated 1,600 persons. It is also believed to be the site for the Air Raid Precaution Wardens’ depot. It is is significant because it is the only public housing building by the Singapore Improvement Trust to have been built with an air raid shelter as part of its design and is the last remaining pre-war civilian air raid shelter still in existence today. Visit this iconic location and snap some pictures for memory!

Lastly, end off your exploration in this quaint neighbourhood with 3 must-eats!

1. TIONG BAHRU BAKERY. Couldn’t resist scrumptious viennoiseries and pastries? Be sure to check out Tiong Bahru Bakery –  A Stylish French Bakery in Singapore. Local cafe aficionados will be familiar with this beloved bakery brand, which started as a single bustling cafe in the hip neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru in 2012, and now has several outlets. Its kouign amann pastries are legendary, and its coffee and artisanal breads are hand-crafted with French flour and butter, while boasting local flair and quirky flavours. Head down now to grab some of these French pastries or decent Australian-style brunch!

2. LOO’S HAINANESE CURRY RICE. Operating since 1946, Loo’s Hainanese Curry Rice at Tiong Bahru has become an all-time favourite of families generations after generations. The key to Loo’s is their moreish curry which takes three days to prepare.  The first day is spent preparing fresh herbs like blue ginger, tumeric, shallots and lemongrass which have to be peeled and ground into a paste.  The next day, these are then slowly fried to make the rempah which is then used to make the curry sauce on day three. Head down early to choose from dishes such as Dark Soy Sauce Stewed Pork, Crispy Pork Chop, Sambal Sotong, Sambal Prawns, Curry Chicken, Chap Chye (cabbage) and more as many of the popular food items generally get sold out by 1pm or so.

3. JIAN BO SHUI KUEH. Talk about Tiong Bahru Food Centre, and one of the must-visit stalls would be Jian Bo Shui Kueh. For tourists, the “Shui Kueh” or more commonly known as “Chwee Kueh” is a hawker dish of steamed rice cakes topped with chye poh (preserved radish) and accompanying chilli sauce. You can also find Jian Bo as kiosks in malls such as Nex, Century Square, and Seletar Mall. But it hits different to savour this at its original stall, make your way down to try this now!

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The word ‘kampong’ means “compound in Malay, while “glam” refers to the long-leaved paperbark tree, commonly found in the area and used for boat-making, medicine and even as a seasoning for food. The district has a history that dates back to Singapore’s colonial era, when Sir Stamford Raffles allocated the area to the Malay, Arab and Bugis communities. Since then, the area has evolved into a haunt for hip travellers and connoisseurs of culture alike.

With this comprehensive things-to-do itinerary in Kampong Glam’s top attractions and hidden gems, you may explore the hidden alleyways and bustling streets on foot while taking in its heritage and cultural sights. Have fun exploring!

1. HAJI LANE. Besides being a foodie paradise, Kampong Glam is home to both traditional tradesmen and trendy modern retail. Make a beeline for Haji Lane to lose yourself in a world of multi-coloured street art and hip boutiques. You’ll find uniquely Singaporean trinkets at Craft Assembly, home décor and elegant accessories at Hygge and beautifully crafted jewellery at the Silver Triangle. Visit various cool boutiques, bars, cafes and restaurants that rank high on the hip factor – and let’s not forget the street art. While you’re there, remember to take some insta worthy pictures too!

2. EMBARK ON #INSTAWALK: BUGIS, WATERLOO, KAMPONG GLAM TOUR. Get your smartphone ready and join us on Singapore’s first and only Instagram tour! Instagram-worthy shots are the rage for generating interest in new places discovered. A great Insta shot becomes a massive draw for locals and travellers alike and can transform a place, destination, food find, or street into cult status. This was the inspiration behind our #Instawalks series where our walks are carefully crafted to seek out hidden nooks and crannies and uncover gems unbeknownst to the average Joe. Join us in discovering Singapore in a novel and fun way together with our friendly influencers as they generously share tips, and unknown spots to capture the finest shots of SG now! https://tribe-tours.com/product/instagram-tour-bugis/

3. GELAM GALLERY. With new dustbins, renovated drain covers and freshly painted walls, the back lanes of Muscat Street have been rejuvenated for the first outdoor gallery in Singapore, Gelam Gallery! Using the walls at the back of the shophouses as canvases, the nondescript back lanes of Muscat Street that were once used only for delivery and refuse disposal have been given a transformational makeover. This extraordinary outdoor gallery will showcase murals and framed works of more than 30 artists from different backgrounds, newly graduated students from NAFA and LASALLE College of the Arts, and experienced local and foreign artists. Here is a guide for all the 32 wall arts around, explore them now! https://www.theadmin.sg/gelam-gallery

4. EMBARK ON INSTAHUNT @ HAJI LANE QUEST. Want to solve some puzzles while exploring the area? Up your excitement factor by embarking on this self-guided quest! Download the Questeon app and search for “Instahunt @ Haji Lane”. Discover various hidden gems like the Vintage Camera Museum, Bhai Sarbat and more, at your own pace and time! A great activity idea with your friends and partners!

With such a variety of bars, restaurants, cafes and food stops, end off your exploration with 3 must-eats!

1. ALATURKA TURKISH & MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT. Alaturka is a friendly restaurant in the heart of Bussorah Street that is renowned for its authentic Turkish cuisine. For 15 years, they have been serving high-quality interpretations of classic dishes as well as tasty new ventures into uncharted territories of Turkish food. They were also awarded the Michelin Guide Singapore Bib Gourmand in 2016 and continue to work hard to bring Singapore an authentic taste of Turkey coupled with exemplary hospitality and ambience. If you would like to try some authentic Turkish cuisine, head down now!

2. SINGAPORE ZAM ZAM. Established in 1908, Singapore Zam Zam is one of the most popular Indian-Muslim restaurants in Singapore. Opens 7 days a week, this place is famous for perfecting Nasi biryani, Murtabak, Roti prata and many other dishes for over a century! The restaurant is located right across the street from Sultan Mosque, on the corner of Arab Street and Bridge Road, just a short walk from the Bugis area of Singapore. It is one of those restaurants that looks like it’s really small from the bottom floor but go up the flight of stairs to the right, and there’s an entire upstairs with multiple dining rooms and about 30 extra tables in an air-conditioned environment.

3. BAKES BY NY. With 4 outlets islandwide, Bakes by NY has just opened its newest outlet at Sultan Gate in Kampong Glam. Besides its central location, the new outlet also sells exclusive items. You can’t head to any Bakes by NY’s outlets without trying their stuffed donuts! From nutella to salted caramel, ondeh-ondeh, Biscoff and more, their donuts are chewy with generous amounts of filling. The highlight of this new outlet is none other than their Drip Donuts! These are small morsels of donuts dripped with your choice of sauces – from dark chocolate to matcha, dulce de leche (caramelised milk), white chocolate, crushed cornflakes and more. This will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth cravings and is a great way to end your meal!

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With this comprehensive things-to-do itinerary in Little Indias’s top attractions and hidden gems, you may explore the hidden alleyways and bustling streets on foot while taking in its heritage and cultural sights. Have fun exploring!

1. SRI VEERAMAKALIAMMAN TEMPLE. Step into one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, dedicated to the goddess and destroyer of evil, Sri Veeramakaliamman or Kali. This distinctive landmark has fascinating stories to tell of colonial Singapore. From its earliest days, it was linked with early migrant workers from India, who would have worshipped the goddess to feel safe in a new foreign land. During the Japanese air raids in World War II, many people sought physical refuge at the temple as well as prayed for Kali’s protection. As luck—or fate—would have it, the temple and all its statues escaped the bombings unscathed. With its colourful and intricate statues and detailing, the temple remains one of the most spectacular places of worship in Singapore.

2. EMBARK ON SPICE OF LIFE TOUR. Get your taste buds going and let us learn from our Little India resident experts. We’re on a gastronomical adventure to Spice up your life in Little India’s vibrant hub of flavors. Join us on this walking food tour of Little India to demystify spices, be dazzled by the colourful ingredients that go into Indian dishes, eat to our hearts content and gain a wealth of knowledge about the amazing cuisine and culture here! https://tribe-tours.com/product/spice-of-life-little-india/

3. WALL MURALS. Stroll along streets and back alleys and your eyes will be drawn to extravagant murals showcasing Singapore’s colourful past. With murals such as ‘Working Class Hero‘, ‘A Ride through Race Course Road‘, ‘Madan Mogra, Jasmine of the City‘ and many more, a must visit is the ‘Traditional Trades of Little India’ by Psyfool. This mural depicts some of the traditional trades that were commonly practiced by Indians in the Serangoon area. Try to spot some! Hint: a parrot astrologer who used parrots to pick fortunes, a flower garland vendor who made fragrant flower chains, a dhobi (washerman), a milk delivery man and a kacang putih seller. Fun fact: Did you know that Dhoby Ghaut was actually named after the dhobis – washermen and women? Now you know!

4. FORMER HOUSE OF TAN TENG NIAH. Built in 1900, this is the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India. It embodies an often overlooked story of the days when small Chinese industries operated alongside the cattle and rattan businesses at Little India. Tan Teng Niah was a towkay (Chinese businessman of good standing) who owned several sweet-making factories along Serangoon Road that used sugarcane to produce sweets. Visit this colourful villa and take a look at the five-foot way and richly carved pintu pagar (Malay for “swinging wooden half doors”). Remember to take some pictures for the gram while you’re there too!

5. EMBARK ON THE DOLL TOUR. Are you daring enough to take on the challenge to help the Ferryman free the spirit of The Doll? A policeman from the netherworld, aka The Ferryman, needs your help to locate the scattered body parts of the Japanese doll. Only with the parts as a whole, can the spirit of the doll be freed. You must work fast by following the clues, stories and instructions given by the Ferryman as he communicates with the spirits around us. The body parts have been disguised as ingredients, food, artefacts etc, and you will need to perform tasks to get them. If you’re a brave soul, gather your squad and join us today! https://tribe-tours.com/product/the-doll-little-india/

Last but foremost, fill your tummy with these top 3 must-eats to end your exploration!

1. BANANA LEAF APOLO. This is no stranger to the Indian food scene in Singapore. A hotspot for Indian cuisine lovers, offering a mix of North and South Indian fare. They believe in serving all their dishes on banana leaves, a traditional way of serving food in India. Their signature Apolo Fish Head Curry is a must-order, served with a large fish head swimming in a pool of robust curry gravy. Plant-based diners, you don’t have to feel left out, with the Vegetable Fried Rice that makes for a substantial main.

2. INDIAN EXPRESS. Need some spice? Drop by Indian Express. It’s Michelin-starred Song of India’s second concept space. Meat eaters, go all in with the tandoori mix grill platter that’s topped with a big fat lamb chop, fish, chicken tikka, kebabs and a bowl of lip-smacking mint chutney. If you’re going with a vegetarian friend, be sure to order the masala chaat fries or the Punjabi samosas and double down on Indian street food!

3. MOGHUL SWEET SHOP. Fair warning if you have a sweet tooth! This sweet shop at Little India Arcade is probably the Indian version of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. It serves a variety of authentic North Indian sweets including gulab jamun, motichoor ladoo, and dodah burfis, just to name a few. It’s a grab ‘n go kinda spot so you can take away all you want. Best to go during off-peak hours (especially before or after the lunch crowd) to avoid snaking queues.

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With this comprehensive things-to-do itinerary in Katong’s top attractions and hidden gems, you may explore the hidden alleyways and bustling streets on foot while taking in its heritage and cultural sights. Have fun exploring!

1. WALL MURALS. There are various murals scattered around the heart of Katong. Most of them are a result of the Katong Joo Chiat Art Circuit (KJC Art Circuit) organised by The Admin SG and commissioned by the Singapore Tourism Board to revitalise this area. One of the must-visit mural is High Tide by Helen Le Chatelier with poems by Christina Chia to reflect the flooding that once plagues this area. In the past, residents had to contend with flooding in their homes and schools whenever the nearby Geylang River brimmed over during high tide or the rainy season. Tanjong Katong flooded six to ten times a year, and this continued until 1993 when the river was deepened. Follow the poems along the wall to uncover the hidden story behind this fascinating mural and take some pictures!

Discover more interesting murals here! https://www.theadmin.sg/murals-for-kjc

2. EMBARK ON EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH JOO CHIAT TOUR. Are your taste buds ready for a bursting experience in Singapore’s treasure trove of great hidden food gems? Led by the one and only true blue Katong boy Peranakan Anthony, dive deep into Joo Chiat as he takes you on a wonderful journey that will have you engaging your senses, especially your taste buds! Make no mistake, this is an eating tour. So come hungry! There will be a sampling of good ol’ Joo Chiat favourites like Vadai, Laksa, Tau Kwa Pau and more. Come join Anthony as he shares his neighbourhood favourites with you now! https://tribe-tours.com/product/eat-your-way-through-joo-chiat/

3. KIM CHOO KUEH CHANG. A Peranakan treasure that has been around since 1945, Kim Choo Kueh Chang’s third-generation custodians are dedicated to preserving their grandma’s recipes and the art of wrapping the well-loved triangular rice dumplings, which remain cult favourites today. They still operate out of their original location at Joo Chiat Place and are an integral part of the neighbourhood’s identity. They are so popular with locals and tourists alike that they also manage a Singapore Visitor Centre for the precinct of Katong & Joo Chiat. The mission is to share the Peranakan culture and its rich food heritage with all who are willing. Visit now and purchase some flavourful and tasty rice dumplings.

4. SRI SENPAGA VINAYAGAR TEMPLE. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of prosperity (also known as Vinayagar), the temple is a brilliant example of Dravidian architecture. Historically, it is said that in the 1850s, a statue of lord Ganesha was found by the side of a pond. The statue stood in the shade of a champak tree, known as Senpaga in Tamil. With the help of a group of Indian workers nearby, a modest abode was created for the Vinayagar statue which later came to be known as the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple. With a combination of religious significance, historical importance and sheer visual delight, this temple is a must-visit for any traveller.

5. EMBARK ON A MATRIARCH OF RUMAH KATONG TOUR. Discover Katong and Joo Chiat through Qing Qing, a Matriarch with a story to tell. Hear her stories about the unique Peranakan culture, get exclusive access into a Peranakan House to learn inspirations behind her own family house, the material culture of Kebaya, Kerosang and beaded shoes, and the delectable food from classics like Nyonya Zhang, Ayam Buah Keluak to Laksa. She is also excited to share with you her favourite establishments around Katong/Joo Chiat frequented with her husband and family. Interested to find out more? Book here now! https://tribe-tours.com/product/matriarch-of-rumah-katong/

Last but not least, you can’t leave the country’s best foodie destination without these top 3 must-eats!

1. 328 KATONG LASKA. What started out as a family business years back has morphed into six branches around Singapore, and four in shopping malls. The defining characteristics of Katong Laksa are the thick rice vermicelli noodles and the coconut-rich laksa gravy. Combine these with plump shrimps, fish cakes and fresh clams (or cockles), enhanced with the aroma of curry leaves, and you get a bowl of internationally renowned Katong Laksa. Head down to try out some!

2. CHIN MEE CHIN CONFECTIONERY. Tradition meets modernity. Chin Mee Chin is a beloved institution for generations of folks who grew up in Katong. This is where you can get a taste of the old-styled coffee and bakes, and take a step down memory lane. They remain committed to its founding glory of classic pastries, historic ambience and traditional comforts, with a determination to maintain a lasting legacy for the future to come. Indulge in a hearty cup of Kopi with Kaya Toast today.

3. TOK TOK INDONESIAN RESTAURANT. A fan of Indonesian cuisine? Then this is for you! A family dining concept, Tok Tok Indonesian Restaurant serves an extensive range of mouth-watering authentic Indonesian cuisine. With great passion, they crafted an array of much-loved Indonesian favourites and heart-warming dishes that uses only the original family recipes to bring out a nostalgic taste of Indonesia to your home. Delight yourself with their signature dishes such as Batagor, Ayam Bakar Betutu, Dendeng Sambal Bali, Nasi Goreng Kambing, Soto Betawi and many more.

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With this comprehensive things-to-do itinerary in Chinatown’s top attractions and hidden gems, you may explore the alleyways and streets on foot while taking in its sights. Have fun exploring!

1. CHINATOWN STREET MARKET. The majority of the stalls on this street are open during the day from around 10 am until it starts to close at around 8 or 9 pm, but some stay open a bit later, especially those selling snacks and beverages. The stores and booths take up entire streets throughout Pagoda Street, Trengganu Street, Sago Lane, Smith Street, and Temple Street, with hundreds of vendors offering everything from clothing to home goods, electronics to handicrafts. The hanging red lanterns and colonial architecture provide a clear glimpse of Singaporean culture and are exactly what you would anticipate from Chinatown!

2. EMBARK ON A CHINATOWN MURDERS TOUR. A serial killer is on the loose, and the whole nation is gripped with fear. Do you want to be the Sherlock Holmes of Chinatown in our immersive mystery game tour? Come join us to find the killer by solving a series of puzzles around Chinatown here! https://tribe-tours.com/product/niu-che-shui-murders-outdoor-escape-room-game-tour/

3. BARBER CHAIR 3D FLOOR STICKER MURAL. In the past, Chinatown’s alleyways were frequently occupied by street barbers, most of whom worked out of improvised shelters with wooden board walls and roofs or awnings. These traditional street barbers encountered fierce competition from hair salons as lifestyles changed. Except for a few odd stalls, there are hardly any street barbers left today. Visit this mural to relieve the past and take some pictures!

4. THIAN HOCK KENG TEMPLE. Visit Singapore’s oldest Chinese temple, built in 1839 with the support of prominent members of the Hokkien community. When there, be sure to admire the impressive building in the classic southern Chinese style and look out for the intricate carvings and sculptures of dragons, phoenixes, and deities, as well as the vibrant broken porcelain on the roof ridges, a Fujian decoration method. Fun fact! Not a single nail was used during the temple’s initial construction. Isn’t it fascinating?

5. YIP YEW CHONG MURALS. Yip Yew Chong is well known for his murals around Chinatown and other spaces that feature past scenes. He draws inspiration from his own childhood and everyday life experiences, and the neighbourhood has become his canvas on which he puts down his memories. Visit his various murals in multiple areas, such as Smith Street and Temple Street; we promise you will be wow-ed!

6. EMBARK ON A HAWKERWALK: OLD SCHOOL SNACKS TOUR. Explore off-the-beaten-path, find hidden gems and meet the locals! We will bring you up, close and personal with the last of our hawkers making these traditional snacks, where you will gain a deeper appreciation of the grit and sweat hawkers put in to deliver the everyday dishes we enjoy. Book here now! https://tribe-tours.com/product/hawker-tour-hawkerwalk/

And lastly, you can’t leave Chinatown without trying out these 3 must-eats!

1. TONG HENG. A famed bakery known for its dedication to handcrafted traditional pastries. They set out with a simple mission – to share the love for traditional pastries, such as their trademarked diamond-shaped egg tarts, with the world. Modernised yet still handmade with passion, their iconic pastries are some of the most well-loved in Singapore.

2. LIAN HE BEN JI CLAYPOT. Located within Chinatown Complex Market & Food Centre lies a Michelin Bib Gourmand satisfying one-dish meal with 43 years of experience. The claypot rice comes with 3 options: Assorted, Preserved meat and Chicken. Each and every order is made from scratch, which unfortunately also results in longer waiting times. Hence, we recommend you to call and book in advance before heading down to prevent getting disappointed!

3. MEI HEONG YUEN DESSERT. Visit one of Singapore’s oldest dessert shops serving a mix of traditional and modern desserts! They have over 50 dessert selections and specialize in different varieties of pastes, steamed egg pudding, and snow ice. Perfect place for rounding up a satisfying meal!

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“When you look at Singapore’s skyline, which is an icon, you can see the first world country that we are now. What you can’t appreciate is how far we’ve come.

You can’t appreciate the decisions that we had to make, the hurdles we had to cross to get to where we are. It’s like seeing the surface but not understanding the depth,” explains Jason Loe, co-founder of Tribe.

To showcase the economic success that is Singapore, the two-year-old company created a new tour series called Made in Singapore. Stamped with Tribe’s trademark human interest stories, the tour feeds visitors with tales that are both true and accessible and so draw them into Singapore’s own rags-to-riches story.

“You know how they say a picture paints a thousand words? Well, we believe stories make pictures come alive,” says Loe.

“That’s what we do at Tribe. We bring you all the stories that help make sense of the big picture.”

This, then, is the new age of global tourism, where people want more than to be introduced to interesting sights and instead prefer experiences that are authentic and immersive for deeper connections with the destination and its people.

CRAFTING THE STORY

And so, in designing the first in its series of Made in Singapore tours, Tribe let the story take the lead.

“We began with the idea that we wanted to tell Singapore’s economic story because it is the country’s best story and yet no one has ever turned it into something visitors could experience,” said Loe.

From that seed of an idea, the Tribe team plotted the story arc.

“Every story has a beginning, a middle and the end. And we used that to select our destinations because we didn’t want our tour to be just one attraction after another. We wanted it to have a narrative.”

So, the Singapore Maritime Gallery was picked to showcase the country’s beginnings as a successful entrepot. 1872 Clipper Tea was chosen because it epitomizes Singapore business today. To wrap up, something futuristic was included – high-tech, sustainable urban farm, Citizen Farm Penjara.

1872 Team Clipper Company Tea Tasting

STORIES THAT MAKE THE PAST COME ALIVE

Once the storyline was mapped out, Tribe fills in the details to make the experience relatable and real.

“When you tell someone about a new place, you don’t give them the bare facts – how big it is, when it was built, who built it. You tell what you thought of it, how it wowed you, nuggets of facts that make the place interesting to you.

This is what Tribe does on a larger scale and in a more deliberate manner.,” says Loe.

Tribe’s Chief (their charming moniker for their guides), Iris Ang, is a master at this. With a crowd of Russian visitors, she teased with this quiz: “Where do you think coffee comes from?”

Out came the usual answers – Columbia, perhaps? Indonesia, since this is about Singapore’s history and Indonesia is a neighbor? The answer? Ethiopia. The connection? Coffee is among the many products that come from around the way to Singapore through its world class port. This port was what allowed the tiny fishing village to thrive in entrepot trade and become a highly-free market economy and one of the most open in the world.

At the Singapore Maritime Gallery where the history of Singapore’s port is given pride of place, Ang lets these stories lead her charge to take a closer look at the facts and figures of Singapore’s achievements.

Iris Ang, Tribe’s super guide and story teller

Like the skillful story teller that she is, she divulges details about the lives of the coolies who literally bore the country on their backs, giving the faded pictures of coolies walking the planks that lead up to mammoth ship a context both rich and meaningful.

“They were the human version of our petrol stations today or the bunkers that fuel the ships now,” explains Ang.

“They were paid to carry baskets of coals on board ships to be used as fuel. Our early port success could be said to be built on the backs of these men.”

Tribe also believes in letting stories build upon one another, which is why when one of the visitors in Ang’s group chipped in with his own stories, she graciously let him take the stage.

“I have been a sailor most of my life. 50 years of experience at sea. In those days, being attacked by pirates was not a myth, it was a reality. I was held at knifepoint by pirates once,” veteran sailor, Lance Fernandes, recounts to an enthralled audience.

“It makes it interactive and inclusive. It also makes each tour unique. Even if the places are the same, the stories aren’t,” says Loe.

At the 1872 Clipper Tea office, one of the brands owned by Singapore’s oldest family businesses, the 140-year-old BP de Silva empire, stories gave visitors a glimpse of how one family represented Singapore’s migrant history and the resourcefulness that has come to mark Singapore.

“Many people know BP de Silva as a jeweller. Some people know us for our F&B or commodities business. But few people know we are a business that wouldn’t have been if it hadn’t been for a sense of family,” explains Micheas Chan, General Manager of 1872 Clipper Tea.

During World War II, Japanese soldiers looted many shops including the one Balage Porolis de Silva set up at High Street. Everyone thought the business was lost. But one sharp manager snuck the company’s valuables into a sack and buried it under a tree in his home. When the war ended, he dug up the treasures and returned it to the de Silvas.

“He could have made off with the fortune but his sense of loyalty was so strong because he was treated like family that he didn’t even want a reward for what he did,” says Chan. “This tradition of treating employees like family has continued to this day.”

With the story fresh on their minds, the visitors were taught the finer art of tea appreciation and how to sniff out good quality tea from the poor.

“1872 Team Clipper Company’s story is that of many Singapore brands’,” says Chan.

“We don’t have tea plantations but we don’t let that stop us. Instead, we buy plantations from Sri Lanka and use Singapore to do what we do best – innovate the taste.”

STORIES THAT ENVISION THE FUTURE

Citizen Farm Penjara

At Citizen Farm Penjara, stories about people link past to the future.

Here, Ang leads with another quiz: “Do you know how small Singapore is?”

To put things into perspective, she offers this answer: “It is 11,106 times smaller than the world’s smallest continent – Australia.”

And with this understanding comes the appreciation of Singapore’s decision to choose technology over farming.

“Almost one in 10 people in Singapore was engaged in farming in the 1970s. But given our land and labour constraints, we had think out of the box.,” says Loe.

“That’s why Singapore pushes so hard for technology. Technology lets us overcome these constraints. Now, that technology has allowed us to return to farming of sort. We have created a new type of farmer.”

The urban farm uses technology to grow food that is then supplied to people, restaurants and hotels. As part of its closed-loop farming system in which ingredients and organic matter are put back into the soil to minimise waste and make farming sustainable, the edible farm trains and hires adults with Down Syndrome.

“This farm is all about people and their future. We want a future where people care for the earth, eat fresher and eat safer, and care for the community,” says Christopher Leow, Urban Farmer at Citizen Farm Penjara.

Christopher espousing the eco uses of black flies at Citizen Farm

Evident throughout the visit was not only the innovations – systems controlled by smartphones, solar power and hydroponics that provide nutrients directly to the plants – but also the human relations that make the farm full of kampung spirit (communal bond).

MAKING OF MASTER STORY-TELLERS

This dedication to stories that distinguishes Tribe experiences does not come easily.

“The stories are the result of continually working with our Chiefs, the guides, and the vendors who contribute their own stories. They all know they are part of the story arc, they know they are empowered to inject their personalities into the experiences,” says Loe.

Because the tours are regularly refined and enhanced, no two experiences are alike nor can it be replicated.

“Each experience has our special Tribe DNA. You can go to the same place, but you will never get the same Tribe experience,” says Loe.

Thankfully, there are a lot more Made in Singapore experiences in the works.

“We are planning several more editions of the Made in Singapore story because the country’s economic miracle is so rich and multi-faceted, it requires more than one chapter,” says Loe.

Stay tuned, then, for more soul revealed in the glitzy story of Singapore’s success.

MEET THE TEAM THAT BUILDS FUN INTO YOUR CORPORATE EVENTS

Be honest, until you were tasked to organise them, you had never found team-building activities, family days, corporate events or orientations much fun. But now you’re in charge, you want to make yours the talk of the town or, at least, the buzz in the office.

Well, your compatriots in company events – those in Marketing or HR – have a well-kept secret that we’re going to share with you. They didn’t go it alone. And (good news), you don’t have to either.

A curious eye for local curios

One of the toughest things about any company event is that it has to be different from the one before, yet continue to engage and delight.

“They don’t want another trip to a local attraction or theme park,” says Jason Loe, Chief of Chiefs (Tribe’s charming moniker for the guides) at Tribe Tours.

“Our clients tell us that adventure team games are trite and even those once-novel cooking classes have become overdone.”

On an island as small as this, can there really be anything that new anymore?  

That’s where Tribe’s unique ability to find the exciting in the everyday comes in. Take its Wet Market Tour. We don’t think much of wet markets. We don’t even consider them particularly necessary anymore, not when we can shop at supermarkets. Yet, in Tribe’s artful hands, this visage of local life becomes a delightful chance for cultural immersion.

“This tour is a total sensory experience. You can see, touch and smell the local ingredients that are used in some of the most beloved Singapore dishes. You can soak in the atmosphere and sounds of the ladies doing their marketing the old-fashioned way – the haggling, the raw energy – it’s quite exciting,” says Cheong Yoke Chun, the Chief in charge of this tour.

So passionate is Yoke about the tour, she takes it upon herself to ensure you get the full experience. Don’t be surprised when she whips out a cooler and treats you to her own concoction – homemade lemongrass drink – after the wet market tour.

“After looking at and smelling the fresh produce, it’s nice to taste them as well,” smiles Yoke.

That’s the other thing about Tribe tours. There’s always food.

“Food is such an integral part of Singapore culture. We learn so much from the tastes of the country,” says Yoke.

So, its Housing History Tour ends with a visit to not one but two actual HBD homes and bowls of local desserts made by the homeowners themselves.

“This tour is great for orientation for foreign hires or foreign visitors who want an authentic Singapore experience. You get to talk to the homeowners, find out trivia like why you can’t keep cats as pets in HDB flats and see that what looks like boring uniformity on the outside can be a study in contrast when you see how the homeowners decorate their homes differently.”

That’s what sets Tribe apart from the hoi polloi – that ability to take all the sights, sounds, smells, feel and taste of Singapore that we take for granted and turn them into insightful escapades.

“We excel in gems of knowledge and fun facts,” says Jason.

Tribe’s skill in taking the mundane and infusing it with amazement comes to the fore with their Road to Water Independence. You’ll never look at that glass of clean water straight from the tap quite the same after you’ve been on the tour that walks you through the nation’s effort to attain water self-sufficiency.

“At the end of these tours, you don’t just have fun, you discover something about Singapore that goes beneath the surface. It’s educational and entertaining,” says Jason.

The power of insider knowledge

Tribe is able to value-add to many local experiences because of the vast insider knowledge their Chiefs have amassed.

“Our Chiefs are story-tellers, comedians, historians, entertainers, coordinators all rolled into one. They are the reason our guests feel such connection during our tours because they are masters at linking place to people.

Each is so passionate they are continually adding to the experience so that our tours are constantly evolving,” shares Jason.

So, if you expect your event to trump last year’s, you will not be disappointed with Tribe. Its tours are truly one of a kind, like the About Mr Lee Tour. Debuting around the one-year anniversary of the death of the late founding Prime Minister of Singapore, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, in April 2016, this tour is a labour of love that took the team months of scouring literature and walking the ground to piece together.

“About Mr Lee takes you behind the public figure that was Mr Lee to the man he was. It takes you to his childhood home, lets you taste his favourite food, gives you a chance to sit in his seat at the old Parliament House. It’s the chance to walk where he walked.

Along the way, we tell you stories about him as a child, give you insights into how he likes his beer and what it was like growing up in Lee Kuan Yew’s Singapore in the 1970s,” enthuses Jason.

All these come from the Chiefs’ research and, more importantly, personal experiences with Mr Lee. Facts you can get from any readings, but stories that show you the humanity behind the politician, these are Tribe trademarks.

Inroads into and connections with little-known experiences and dying trades are also how Tribe is able to take you where few have gone. The Roti and Kopi Factory Tour is one fine example. The trip to a traditional local bakery and a coffee roasting factory is the result of patiently cultivating rapport with these artisan craftsmen.

“We took months persuading the man at the coffee roasting factory to let us take groups in. He was very reluctant. And even when he agreed, he was quite reticent. Now, after working with us for some time, he’s more open to sharing about his trade.

We developed a relationship over time. That’s how we can take you behind-the-scenes where others can’t,” says Jason.

Adding to the flavor of Tribe’s tours are the craftsmen themselves, like the lady who shares her skills at the Popiah Making Tour.

“Instead of talking for craftsmen, we create the space for the guests to engage them. That’s how the tour comes alive. And the popiah auntie, she is quite the character. You have to meet her to find out,” laughs Jason.

Your personal organiser

It’s this personal touch that makes Tribe able to curate experiences just for you. And that’s probably the most challenging of demands when organising any corporate activity – that everybody needs to have fun. Everyone.  

“You have this one activity that has to appeal across ages, genders and personal interests because the people in the office are so different,” says Jason.

“What we do is listen to your needs and customise the event for you. You don’t have to take our regular tours wholesale, you can pick and choose what works for you.”

From the moment they take your first exploratory call to the time they wave good-bye to you, the same Tribe Chief is there.

“Many are surprised when I turn up at the event because they think we specialise – the one who takes the booking is different from the one who runs the tour. But we don’t work like that. From the get go, you get one person taking care of you,” explains Jason.

When confronted with large groups that number into the hundreds, Tribe goes the extra mile to make sure no man is left behind.

“We offer different tours for the big group so people can pick what they like and everyone is happy,” says Jason.

For tours for kids, Tribe is mindful of even the tiniest of details.

“We take into account their short attention span and cut short the explanations to accommodate them. We also make sure they don’t have to walk for long distances because we know they tire more easily. It’s all these things that make the total experience more enjoyable,” says Yoke.

What Tribe’s clients enjoy as well is the flexibility that the Chiefs offers.

“Sometimes, as we go along, someone will mention that they want to try a certain food. We will try to find it within our tour route so they can taste the food. This is only possible because our Chiefs know their tour areas so well. They aren’t afraid to go off script, so to speak,” says Jason.

The beauty of these tours is that it can fit just about any company outing – Family Day, team-building, orientation.

“We take you out of the daily routine and you get to mix with people in your company in a relaxed environment with everything taken care of. There’s learning, there’re stories, there’s plenty of eating. It’s great for bonding. And you come away from it all with a richer experience,” says Jason.

To contact Tribe, call +65 6463 1031 or send an email to hello@tribe-tours.com. Visit our website at www.tribe-tours.com.

And that’s what Tribe, a Singapore start-up that curates local experiences, offers in the latest addition to its bespoke selection of Singapore tours. Made in Singapore is exactly like being taken by the hand by Singapore’s best friend and told, with delicious details, it’s very best stories.

“We wanted something more than just a tour of Singapore’s best attractions. That, anyone can do,” says Jason Loe, co-founder of Tribe. “Instead, we wanted to give people a look at the stories that make Singapore what it is today.”

BEHIND THE SUCCESS

And one of the most important stories is Singapore’s meteoric rise to becoming a phenomenal economic success. In the over 50 years since it was thrust into independence, Singapore has blossomed from a Third World country into a First World nation, often coming up among the top in world rankings.

“There’s so much information about this aspect of Singapore but if you wanted to experience it, there’s nothing,” explains Loe.

“So, we decided to create a tour where people can immerse themselves in some of the facts and discover this aspect of Singapore. We wanted to include those countless did you know moments that couldn’t be captured in a history book but are what makes Singapore’s economic story so colourful.”

BEGINNINGS OF SUCCESS

The Made in Singapore story begins where the city state’s fortunes began – in the waters of Singapore.

“Singapore was successful from the early 19 th century because of entrepot trade. There are few better places to understand the bustle that resulted from its strategic position in those days than at the Singapore Maritime Gallery,” explains Loe.

Sitting at Marina South Pier, the 1,000-square- metre Singapore Maritime Gallery pays tribute to Singapore’s history as a port while chronicling its plans to maintain its award-winning. Recently given a nine-month makeover to the tune of $2 million, it opened just in time for Tribe’s first Made in Singapore tour.

As Tribe’s Chief, Iris Ang, takes her charges through the new space dedicated to Singapore’s past as a trading post in the 14th century, she regales them with nuggets of information. There are tales of why the slips of token given to coolies are soot-covered (the tokens were given to the coolies for each basket of coal hauled on board to fuel the ship to be exchanged for wages) and stories of how the Singapore River was part of the cycle of life then (the river served as both a conduit for goods to be brought into the country as well as a convenient toilet and dump site for garbage). In true Tribe style, each vignette has been painstakingly sourced and compiled by the team.

“We do a lot of work beforehand so that when people look at the artifacts, they hear the stories of the every man that made the history possible,” says Ang.
Lance Fernandes, a veteran sailor who has over 50 years of experience at sea, was among the crowd of 20 or so who was part of Ang’s group. He identified in particular with the stories of the men before him who had also irked out a living from the waters.

“Seeing how the ships used to be fueled, the bumboats and tong kangs (wooden boats used to ferry goods) brought back memories,” says Fernandes.

TASTE OF SUCCESS

The next stop was to a local business.

“The story of Singapore’s port looked at the trade aspect of the Singapore economic story. We wanted the next item on the itinerary to highlight Singapore’s business.

It’s a story that needs to be told because while there are so many made in Singapore businesses, not every one of them is known even within the country,” says Loe.

The search for a uniquely Singapore business was not difficult. Getting them to come on board was.

“We approached more than a dozen Singapore companies to be part of Made in Singapore. And we got turned down by about just as many.

Some didn’t want the tour to interrupt their business. Others were afraid trade secrets would be leaked. Others didn’t see the benefit of being part of the experience,” shrugs Loe.

But Singapore’s oldest family-run business saw the value of telling the country’s economic story. That was how the more than 140-year- old BP de Silva, founded by patriarch Balage Porolis de Silva, became part of the itinerary. Best known for its jewellery business, the de Silva empire extends to F&B and commodities as well. 1872 Clipper Tea is one of its nine brands.

At its office in Bukit Merah, 1872 Clipper Tea’s General Manager, Micheas Chan, hosted the Made in Singapore ensemble. Over steaming cups of local brews, the guests were told how the local team dreams up Singaporean tea flavours which are then developed in the R&D centre in Sri Lanka.
“We have bandung (rose syrup and milk) tea which we came up with while having lunch at the hawker centre nearby. We saw the local drink at one of the stalls and thought: why not? It became part of our National Day selection,” says Chan.

Chan’s team is nothing if not creative. Their concoctions have been as varied as they are imaginative – ice-cream- flavoured teas, confectionary-inspired teas (blueberry cheesecake matcha tea) and local breakfast-infused teas. Kaya (coconut jam) tea wowed the crowd the most.

“I liked it best,” quipped six-year- old Sophia Fernandez who was visiting Singapore from Belize with parents. “It really tastes like the kaya toast I had for breakfast.”

FUTURE OF SUCCESS

If 1872 Clipper Tea highlights the deep roots of Singapore’s business scene, the final Made in Singapore destination is a glimpse into Singapore’s business future. Set just a stone’s throw away from towering HDB (Housing Development Board) flats is urban farm, Citizen Farm Penjara. The sustainable edible farm marries modern technology with natural systems to grow fresh produce for the local community around.

“Once upon a time, Singapore was almost self-sufficient. Today, we are producing only 10 per cent of our own food.

Our hope is to return to those days of old but with new methods. Our agricultural byproducts, for example, are composted and up-cycled into fertilizer. This way, we not only eat fresher and safer, we also reduce our carbon footprint,” says Christopher Leow.

The visitors were impressed by how coffee dredges were used to grow mushroom, waste from fish used to grow kale, and insects bred to consume food waste and, subsequently, fed to the chicken in the farm.
“Citizen Farm was a gem we dug up from talking to our various contacts. They had to be included because they represent a vision of Singapore’s future as a self-sustaining and sustainable nation,” says Loe.

Citizen Farm has already turned some 50 spaces into edible gardens and envisions a future where roofs of buildings, the ground beneath bridges, even offices are used to grow food for the country.
Genevieve Xavier, who was with her family, was especially inspired.

“It makes you look at the space we have quite differently and see the potential that even our own homes can have to produce food for our table,” she says.
In fact, the whole Made in Singapore experience has given the visitors a perspective of the country they never had before.

Genevieve’s husband, Giovanni, who has lived and worked in Seattle and now resides in Belize says, “Compared to where I came from, Singapore doesn’t have many resources or a very long history. But as Made in Singapore has shown, it has managed to take the little it has to create a dynamic story.”
That is exactly Tribe’s intent – to show a side of Singapore previously not known. And there is more to come.

“There are still so many more editions of Made in Singapore we have in mind, more businesses to show, more of Singapore’s economic wonders to explore. This is just the start of the journey,” reveals Loe.

Without meaning to sound like a stale cliché, this city truly does not sleep. There’s always some place to drink, something to do and somewhere to be seen. It’s hard to pinpoint what exactly defines nightlife in Singapore because there is simply so much choice – if you have the energy to do it all. A respectably high level of safety and 24/7 access to a transport system that never fails mean a night out promises nothing but a riot of fun without you ever having to worry about staying out ‘too late’. Partying till the sun rises is totally acceptable, and why the heck would you not?

Naturally, the best nights to experience the city in its full glory would be Fridays and Saturdays but by no means are other nights of the week a dull showing. I’d love to be able to say definitively the best place to be if you had just one night to kill but I would be doing you – and Singapore – a great disservice. And sure, Boat Quay and Clarke Quay will probably be the guidebook favourites but you already know that.

As with its myriad of culture, food and sights, this island is as much of a chameleon at night as it is at any other time of day. Your experience is what you make of it and hopefully, this list will serve you well as an after-hours cheat sheet to get you going.

WHERE’S MY SPOT?

1. I want solid heart-thumping house and electronic music: Zouk, Mink

The former is Singapore’s superclub with international accolades up its walls and a constant stream of top-notch local and global DJs on the decks. With three different dance floors to suit your music taste and a wine bar, Zouk never disappoints. A relative infant on the clubbing scene, Mink has been making headlines with its awesome beats, good-looking crowd and plush interiors. Sure sounds like a win-win-win to me.

2. I’m a craft beer ‘connoisseur’: RedDot, LeVeL33, Brewerkz

You don’t just want to experience the nightlife, you want a good taste of what it’s all about. A growing collection of microbreweries have popped up across the island that will more than satisfy your need for some killer malts. Hit up LeVeL33 if you want a great city view with your pint at sundown.

3. I’m want to feel like I’m away from the city, just for a while: Dempsey Hill

A lifestyle quarter packed with rustic shops, restaurants and bars, Dempsey is tucked away in a blanket of greenery close to the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Why it makes the list? There are few better places in town with such a concentrated collection of good food and drinking spots all offering an al fresco experience under the stars, a refreshing change when it’s not too sweltering. Go fancy and dine in a gorgeously restored chapel that is The White Rabbit or go local with some Indian at Samy’s Curry. Start the drinks at RedDot Brewhouse or in the serene gardens of The Green Door. And to top it all off, you can end the night partying at Chameleon Club Lounge, one of the area’s newest additions.

4. Let’s get me on top of the world: KU DÉ TA, New Asia Bar

Marina Bay Sands (MBS) has redefined what it means to feel sky high. Pricey, yes; touristy, definitely. But there’s no denying that the complete panorama views KU DÉ TA offers will give anyone quite a thrill. Having a drink with the cool night breeze on your face and then dipping in onto the dance floor for some body rocking: life doesn’t really get much sweeter. New Asia Bar is an old favourite which will reward you with views of MBS and notably less tourists than the former. Either way, unless your pockets run deep, I’d suggest starting the night on a high with just a drink or two before moving on to cheaper, less gravity-defying options.

5. Enough is never enough, give me a bar crawl: Far East Square, Club Street/Ann Siang Hill, Duxton

You want to be close to an assortment of venues so you can explore more than just a couple. The Quays (Boat and Clarke) have their fair share of fun and are within walking distance of each other but starting at Far East Square and working your way through Club Street to Duxton Hill would definitely be the Tribe pick. Each spot has its own charm and is dotted with bars and great restaurants. On weekends, the roads of Club Street and Ann Siang Hill are partially closed so little parties can spill onto the streets. Club Street Social on Gemmill Lane, off Club Street, will transport you to a Manhattan-style speakeasy; while a Negra Modelo over some ceviche at Lucha Loco’s garden bar on Duxton Hill is nothing short of laidback cool, a slice of Mexican flavour in the heart of Asia.

6. I want to feel the sand between my toes: Tanjong Beach Club

Sure, you’ve had your fun in the sun but you simply can’t get enough of being by the seaside. Then lounge through sunset and while away the night at Tanjong Beach Club on Sentosa. Soothing chill-out tunes, a full food menu and scrumptious cocktails all come backed by the melody of crashing waves. If you’re in town at the right time, be sure to catch their Full Moon Party that happens three times every year.

7. Live music is my thing: Timbre, Wala Wala, Crazy Elephant

Tone deafness doesn’t exist, drinking way too much because singing gets you parched makes complete sense, and everyone becomes a groupie for one night only. That’s pretty much how I would sum up live music venues. Oh, and that moment your heart skips a beat because those first couple of notes of that song you know all the lyrics to has just come on. It’s not that you can’t sing your lungs out anywhere else, this experience is all about that camaraderie of being among a sea of people who are as much music geeks as you are. Having some ‘liquid courage’ also means everyone sings louder, the music sounds better and no one really takes anything too seriously. Wala Wala at Holland Village is great for cover songs, Timbre @ the Substation to uncover upcoming local gems and Crazy Elephant of Clarke Quay for some tongue-in-cheek rock ‘n’ roll blues. So go on, sing your jolly hearts out.

8. I’m definitely an intrepider-than-thou sort: Orchard Towers, Geylang

Run-of-the-mill is not in your vocabulary. You travel to collect stories of how you got down and dirty with the locals, away from those tourists and live to tell the tale. Orchard Towers and Geylang are right up your alley. The Towers is affectionately known as “The Four Floors of Whores” and Geylang is home to much of Singapore’s legalized prostitution activity, along with some of the best local eats we have in town. Those who dare are guaranteed a spectacular sensorial feast and it’s as seedy as Singapore gets, and I mean that in the best way possible.

9. ‘Chill’ is your middle name: Haji Lane, Dunlop Street, Emerald Hill

Singapore may not be your picture of relaxation: too crowded, too small, too fast. But if you find yourself on the island anyway, kick back in one of the many bars along Haji Lane and smoke some flavoured shisha. Take a trip down Dunlop Street in Little India and visit gems like the Prince of Wales Backpacker Pub or the roof terrace of Zsofi Tapas Bar. Check in to Emerald Hill, a conservation area just off Orchard Road preserved in its quaint old-architectural glory. Live music, a game of pool, bar snacks – what else could you possibly need? Plus you really can’t go wrong with the kickass chicken wings and 1-for-1 martinis at No. 5 Emerald Hill.

10. It’s 4am and I’m starving: River Valley, Geylang

At last, my favourite bit of all. Is it just me or does food always taste better after some late night revelry? Growing up in Singapore, we’re spoiled rotten having great eats whenever our hearts desire. And honestly, there’s just something so deeply comforting about having a few go-to places when you’ve stayed up way too late and your tummy isn’t letting you off the hook. This city is undoubtedly a food lovers’ paradise through and through but experiencing it in the depths of night takes the enjoyment to an unprecedented level. Maybe it’s the epic combo of youthful rebellion that’s keeping you out past bedtime plus a dash of deep yearning for something hot and savoury to put you to bed. Or it could just be an adrenaline-induced dose of MSG that makes everything taste out of this world. Whatever the case, I urge you to find yourself along River Valley Road for some prata or nasi goreng at Spize, or a plate of chicken rice at Five Star Hainanese because they never disappoint. If your desire is to go even more local, hop in a cab and make your way to the streets of Geylang. Let the driver know that you’d like to go to his top picks in the area and there’s no way you’ll go wrong. As much as I’d like to think I know my town, few stand any chance of besting a Singaporean taxi driver in a foodie showdown. Indeed, their taste buds never lie.

If nothing here tickles your fancy and you’re after a less intoxicating way to spend the nights, I’d highly suggest either a trip to our Night Safari or the Gardens by the Bay. While the former is an obvious choice, being in the Gardens and its domes after nightfall, once the crowds have parted, is one pretty magical experience. But shhh, this can be our little secret – let’s keep the partygoers doing their thing.

[After Hours is written by Lydia who is currently on hiatus from big city living in sunny, mountainous Colorado. She travels with no agenda and lives for everyday adventures. And when life gives her lemons, she makes a Whiskey Sour topped off with a slice of crispy bacon. Invade her inbox at reallylydia@gmail.com.]

January/February

Not a typically hot holiday season, simply because the rest of the world is back to work. Come if you want to soak in the atmosphere during the Chinese New Year and Thaipusam. The dates are not fixed as it follows the Lunar Calendar, so do check before you come.

CHINESE NEW YEAR

One week before the first day of the lunar new year, there are many festivities where the Chinese prepare for the new year by buying flowers, tangerines and plants. They do that for auspicious reasons. In fact, Chinese (not all) do almost everything for auspicious reasons. The names of the plants or flowers usually sounds similar to other words that signify health, prosperity, smooth passage, abundance, etc. You will find families buying certain cookies and snacks that are traditional snacks bought and given as gifts during the season. An example of that is pineapple tarts. Pineapple (ong lai) which sounds like “wealth coming in”, or fortune coming your way.

So come during this period to see a side of Singapore that surfaces only during this time. Better yet, if you have friends in Singapore that are kind enough to invite you to a reunion dinner on the eve of the first day, you will experience Singapore as a true local.

THAIPUSAM

Looking to be a part of a festival quite unlike anything you’ve seen before? Come during the 10th (called Thai) Tamil month (usually January or February) to witness a Hindu festival celebrated by the Tamil community where devotees seek blessings, show their gratitude and fulfill their vows to their deity, Lord Murugan by performing a task in his name.

The most extreme of these offerings is by the piercing of their own flesh with metal hooks and skewers by carrying a kavadi. This is representative of the physical burden through which devotees implore for help from Lord Murugan to avert a great calamity. For instance, if a family’s relative is suffering from a disease, a devotee would pray dedicate a kavadi to Him and ask for a pardon of the sick relative’s life.

Looking beyond the spectacle that is Thaipusam for outsiders, for believers this is a very serious test of one’s faith. The preparation is almost as (if not more) important than the actual day itself. Kavadi-bearers cleanse themselves through prayer and adhere to strict rules such as the consumption of one vegetarian meal daily, sexual abstinence and a 24-hour fast on the eve of Thaipusam.

Besides kavadi-bearers, other devotees may shave their heads and carry a pot of milk or piercing of tongue, cheeks or skin with vel skewers as they begin the 4.5 kilometre procession from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Little India to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple (Chettiar Temple). If you’re visiting Singapore during Thaipusam and would like a private photography tour (maximum 3) with an expert, contact us at hello@tribe-tours.com. She’s been to the past several Thaipusams and knows exactly where and how to maneuver through the massive street crowd during the procession.

Not for the squeamish…

AUGUST
NATIONAL DAY

We think August 9, Singapore’s National Day is a great time to visit. So what’s so great about a ***ing parade you ask? Isn’t it just like any mega showcase of a nation’s progress? Yes, the earlier renditions of our National Day parades may be a muscle flexing show of strength as most new kids on the block are primed to do (remember also that these were nervy times of the 1960s). But not anymore. Or rather the significance of this annual parade has shifted to one of a celebration of our independence and expressions of unity of the Singapore identity.

So in the past couple of years, a discernible shift of a stronger national identity and bond amongst its people has taken root. Patriotism or open displays of it is now more the norm than the exception as can be seen by flags hanging from homes, cars, and painted faces. So if you like grand parades, fireworks, happy people singing Singapore songs, come during August 9. Majullah Singapura!

December

STANDARD CHARTERED MARATHON

Not quite as famous as the NY City Marathon, London or even the Boston Marathon, but the Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore is fast catching up in reputation to its more illustrious cousins. Without fail, this is held on the first Sunday every December and has now peaked at 54,000 runners in 2013 from the race’s inaugural race in 1982 where 2,832 runners participated.

Runner or not, this race is hard to miss with a carnival like atmosphere and a strong contingent of 4,000 volunteers. The Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore is also known for its charity fund raising programmes towards worthy causes. If you’re here at other times of the year, you can also join us for a more leisurely run in one of Singapore’s most scenic run routes.

ZOUK OUT

Started in 2000, ZoukOut is the largest outdoor beach party in Asia. Notable biggies of House, Techno, Trance, Electro, Hip-Hop like Ferry Corsten, Steve Aoki, Gilles Peterson, Carl Cox, Above & Beyond, Paul van Dyk, Arin van Buuren, and many more have thrilled their legions of fans with their signature sounds.

Serious clubbers plan their vacation to Singapore around this date, with many repeat diehards flying in from all over the world. These past years have seen a large increase in visitors from Australia, India and Europe. In the latest December 2013 edition, a record 41,000 clubbers partied over two nights till sunrise. Read more about clubs and other nocturnal activities for the party-goer.

[Best Months to Visit] is the opinion of the team at Tribe. As far as possible, we aim to give you an honest no-holds barred piece on when and why you should visit Singapore according to locals. For those who value authentic experiences the guidebooks and official tourism sites don’t tell you about.