Have a “Luxe Affair” in Singapore

Picture yourself joyfully zigzagging between chic designer boutiques and big brand department stores in the morning, before heading to an indulgent afternoon of pampering in the elegant surrounds of a world-class spa sanctuary.

Have your troubles gently massaged away before dressing up for an evening of opulent five-star dining or theatrical entertainment and finish off your night with a waterfront stroll and a refreshing ‘sling’ under a starry sky. 

Where are you? In stunning Singapore of course, where you’ll find new levels of luxury and  blissful relaxation. Escape to the Lion City to rest and rejuvenate with its diverse range of wellness and holistic centres, as well as internationally acclaimed spa facilities and resorts, or spend a few days spoiling yourself with endless shopping opportunities, exquisite dining and exciting nightlife. 

When to go? Singapore’s bi-annual luxury event LUXE Affair kicks off in September and runs through to October providing the perfect opportunity for all those who like to indulge in the finer things of life with a reason to visit.

Tempus – The Temple of Time (5-9 September) promises to assemble a superb range of the world’s great timekeepers estimated to surpass the SGD$120million mark.

There will be watchmaking courses, demonstrations by specialist artisans and master watchmakers, on-site appraisals and more throughout this event.

Culture enthusiasts will be ecstatic during October, when the inaugural Singapore Sun Festival (19-30 October) celebrates both the arts and the ‘art of living well’.  Over 150 artists and celebrities from Russia, America, Europe, Australia and Asia, including musicians, artists, authors and chefs, will converge on Singapore for this festival of indulgence.

Visitors will be able to participate in experiences as diverse as film and food nights, cooking classes, wellness retreats, private recitals and celebrity dinner parties. Top line events will include performances from the Russian National Orchestra, Tempe Libre (Latin Jazz) and Ruxandra Donese (mezzo-soprano).

Continuing the five star theme in October is Singapore’s JewelFest (12 – 21 October), for those that love dazzling baubles and bling, JewelFest is a not-to-be-missed shopping experience and will feature the latest collections from designers throughout Asia and Europe. 

Other events to fill your itinerary include, the Sotherby’s Exhibition and Auction of Southeast Asian Painting; Beauty in Asia: 200 BCE to Today; and ARTSingapore. 

When you’re ready for some time out from shopping, immerse yourself in some of Singapore’s history with a visit to the Chinatown Heritage Centre, where you’ll discover how the early Chinese immigrants lived, worked and played, or spend an afternoon wandering through the newly re-opened National Museum featuring world-class interactive and multimedia exhibitions which bring Singapore’s history to life like never before. 

An Original Singapore Walk such as “Dhobis, Saris & a Spot of Curry” through the streets of vibrant Little India will give you a real insight into the heart and soul of Singapore’s multicultural make-up, while the Katong district is the proud home of Singapore’s indigenous Peranakan culture, including the famous Rumah Bebe shophouse which stocks traditional hand-beaded shoes, jewellery and handicrafts.

Learn about Malay customs and clap along to traditional Malay dancers at the Malay Heritage Centre, where you can also try your hand at classical Batik printing to create an original souvenir of your Singapore stay.

After a day of taking in the sights unwind with a signature treatment at one of the many deluxe spas, including Amrita Spa, Aramsa or Spa Botanica. An elaborate High Tea at Raffles is another superb way to repose in spectacular surroundings.

As the sun sets, a red carpet premier at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay followed by dinner at one of Singapore’s many high-end restaurants is an experience to remember. While the list is endless, popular choices include My Humble House, Indochine and Au Jardin.

For more information on how to enjoy the luxuries Singapore has to offer, logon to www.visitsingapore.com or contact the Singapore Tourism Board on (02) 9290 2888.

Report by The Mole