Cover Image: Lola Hakimian

Out of ideas on where to go and what to see as you're stuck in town amid the coronavirus pandemic? Here's our list of ideas to get you started

Christmas week is finally here and it's quite an unprecedented moment in history as many of us are home in Singapore, instead of jetting off for a winter holiday far from our sunny island. Instead of feeling bad about the situation brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, it's best to make full use of our time at home and discover the city with our friends and family. 2020 is coming to an end so why not look forward to a better year by keeping ourselves occupied with fun activities, both indoor and outdoor.

We have a list of ideas on what to do over Christmas this year so start making plans to get into the festive spirit:

1. Indulge in a staycation

It’s almost the end of 2020 so it is also high time that we relax and rejuvenate—and what better way to do so than on a staycation at one of Singapore’s luxury hotels? Take a leaf out of our society friends’ books and indulge in a pampering spa session or gourmand meal while you spend the night in a posh suite. Whether you choose to stay in your room or explore the city, do what you love and give yourself a well-deserved break.

2. Stay home and #netflixandchill

2020 has been the year of massive streaming. By now, most of us should be proud owners of least one account with a major streaming service, such as Netflix, Amazon Video, Hayu and more. Should you be keen on staying in this Christmas with a mug of eggnog or hot cocoa, choose from some of our lists that we’ve curated throughout the year. Our picks include all-time favourite TV series, classic movies, travel specials, Korean dramas, crime documentaries, food shows, feel-good movies, family-friendly movies and even reality shows.

But since it’s Christmas, get into the Christmas spirit and watch these with your friends and family

3. Order in a feast

In Singapore, it’s never too late to order a splendid meal for yourself and the family—or even a small festive party with friends. There are various festive dining takeaways available that will set the mood. The holiday season is made for feasting so Tatler’s dining team has already rounded up special menus to indulge in throughout the month of December.

Don’t forget to order a turkey as well as a log cake to complete your dining experience at home.

4. Use your SingapoRediscover vouchers

Still can’t think of where to go over the holidays or how to use your SingapoRediscover vouchers? You’re not alone. But fret not as we have several suggestions for you and the family. The number of local attractions in this tiny island is extensive so do your homework and plan where to go. It’s the perfect time to soak in the Christmas atmosphere by getting out and exploring the city.

5. Visit a unique pop-up attraction

The highly-anticipated pop-up attractions, Once Upon a Time on the Orient Express, has finally made its debut after many years in the making. It opened its doors at Gardens by the Bay (GBTB) on December 12 to much fanfare, with several artefacts, furniture and displays available for viewing. Two of the original train carriages and locomotive from France are now sitting within GBTB, making it possible for visitors today to bask in the experience of travellers who used the train decades ago. While there are 300 objet d’arts on display, be sure to take in The Orient Express as a whole. The train is constructed with Cordoba embossed leather ceilings, Lalique crystal bas-reliefs Gobelins tapestries, velvet curtains from Genoa, silverware, precious tablecloths and crystal fine glasses—so yes, it is a masterpiece in itself.

6. Take a Tatler Tour

Go on a neighbourhood guide as your follow our Tatler Tours series, which was launched in August this year with member of Parliament Jamus Lim as our first host. We’ve discovered the neighbourhoods of Anchorvale, Kampong Glam, Chinatown and Katong (with more to come) so far, and we promise you that it is well worth your time to go on the same trail as us and see for yourselves the hidden beauty of each of these enclaves around the island.

7. Lend a helping hand

’Tis the season of giving so let us not forget to offer help in any way possible, especially if it’s within our means. There are various ongoing Christmas initiatives, including a charity drive for migrant workers organised by It’s Raining Raincoats, as well as a food donation drive by Dairy Farm and The Food Bank Singapore. These aren’t the only ones available so go ahead and do a little research and reach out to an organisation or charity of your choice.

8. Shop at a Christmas market

That’s right, there are Christmas markets happening right here in Singapore so don’t feel bad about missing out on your favourite ones in Europe this year. Here’s your chance to do some last-minute shopping for your loved ones while you admire the gorgeous decor that are on display at the different Christmas fairs.

 

 

9. Stick to traditions and visit (virtual) Orchard Road

What's Christmas in Singapore without viewing the iconic lights on the Orchard Road shopping belt? This year, however, you can enjoy this online and abide by social distancing measures. 

The dazzling display of the annual Christmas light-up is available to witness both in-person and online, through a new virtual 360° tour of the popular shopping district decked in Christmas ornaments, mistletoes and hollies in white, gold and blue.

10. Do something healthy

At-home workouts were all the rage this year and while some of may think it is outrageous to be working out at the gym or at home during the festive period, it's always important to stay healthy and prioritise wellness. Go for a hike on one of Singapore's most scenic nature trails or stay in and challenge yourself to a new workout that you've been putting off. 

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