Spoil yourself in Singapore during ‘A LUXE Affair’

For lovers of luxury, Singapore is the place to be during March and April as the Lion City hosts a multitude of exquisite events, exhibitions, auctions and world class performances for visitors who know how to enjoy the high life.  Coupled with visits to the finest dining venues, shopping destinations, spas and hotels, a visit during ‘A LUXE Affair’ will ensure you leave feeling relaxed, refreshed and truly pampered.

DeLUXE events include:

Singapore by Vladimir Martynov – SINGAPORE is a powerful and evocative work that reflects the composers’ vision of the nation. Hailed by many in Russia as the premier contemporary composer and a musical icon – this is one musical premiere not to miss. Date: 5 March  Ticketing Agent: www.sistic.com.sg

Mosaic Music Festival – Now in its 3rd year, this festival returns in 2007 with its strongest line-up of over 400 international jazz and world music artists from over 17 countries. Date: 9-17 March Tickets: www.mosaicmusicfestival.com

The Crystal Mirror – Premiering in Asia, this unique experience brings elements of gourmet dining and theatre together in an antique mirrored, hand-made 1940s tent. Artists from Russia, Poland, Israel, Austria, Germany, Brazil and the US will all perform. Date: 9 March – 15 April. Tickets: www.the-crystal-mirror.com

Renee Flemming in Concert – Two time Grammy winner Renee Flemming will perform two shows in Singapore. Tickets are expected to sell fast so get in quick. Date: 16 & 17 March Tickets: www.sistic.com.sg

Singapore Fashion Festival – The region’s most glamorous festival will once again present emerging and established designers in the exclusive ‘tent’ including international designers Vivienne Tam, Shanghai based couture and ready-to-wear fashion designer Lu Kun; and Indian powerhouses Anshu & Jason, Savio Jon and Priyadarshini Rao. International high street brands and global retailers such as TopShop, Levi’s and Marks & Spencer will also be featured. Date: 23 March – 1 April. Information: www.singaporefashionfestival.com.sg

The Phantom of the Opera – The famous Andrew Lloyd Webber musical has performed in over 20 countries and is heading to Singapore for a limited season. Enjoy an evening of musical delights as the cast, crew and orchestra take you on a journey to remember. Dates: 23 March – 29 April Tickets: www.sistic.com.sg

World Gourmet Summit – Returning for its 11th year, the WGS presents a series of fine cuisine and great wines coupled with unique dining experiences. Indulge in feasts prepared by some of the world’s top chefs including; Philippe Mouchel – The Brassiere, Crown Melbourne; and Cheong Liew – The Grange, Hilton Adelaide. Dates: 9-28 April Tickets and Information: www.worldgourmetsummit.com.sg

Art Auctions

Sotheby’s Exhibition & Auction of Southeast Asian Paintings – including works by Filipino, Indonesian, Singaporean, Vietnamese and other European artists’. Date: TBC www.sotherbys.com

Larasati’s Pictures of Asia Fine Art Auction – works will be auctioned off from renowned Indonesian and Ind-European masters. Other works by modern and contemporary Chinese, Indian and other Southeast Asian masters will also go under the hammer.

After satisfying your cravings for culture indulge in retail therapy by heading to one of the world’s famous shopping boulevards – Orchard Road – which boasts a diverse mix of international department stores and chic boutique brands including Marks & Spencer, Giorgio Armani and Valentino.

For a shopping spree with a difference, head to InQbox at 14 Scotts Road #4-53B Far East Plaza. In just one retail space you will find over 180 ‘shops’ in the form of sleek cubes and shelves selling everything from jewellery, clothing, vintage toys, CD’s and vintage clothes.

If you prefer cosy outlets off the beaten track you can indulge your passion for fashion at White Room (#37 Haji Lane) – a small shop selling clothing and accessories from cult labels; or for those who like exotic woodcarvings head to Hwa Yi (36 Temple Street) and you will find a beautiful collection of handcrafted wooden Chinese combs, brushes, mirrors and chopsticks.

When you feel its time to put your feet up, pay a visit to Pink Parlour (63 Kim Yam Road), a top to toe swanky 4-storey boutique spa, or AyurMantra (10 Gemmill Lane) offering the latest ‘must-try’ Abhyanga massage.

Pampering always builds up a hunger so indulge your taste buds at Singapore’s many five star restaurants including mezza9 at the Grand Hyatt, My Humble House at the Esplanade Mall, or Le Amis Restaurant at the Shaw Centre.

After dinner, sit back and sip on a cocktail at one of Singapore’s many ‘it’ bars including Bar Opium, Bellini Room or the newly opened Café del Mar.

For more information, contact the Singapore Tourism Board on (02) 9290 2888 or log onto www.visitsingapore.com

Report by The Mole