Barossa Restaurant & Bar
This laid-back waterfront hangout serves up hearty Australian cuisine; expect dishes like roasted Tasmanian rack of lamb.  Wash your meal down the quintessentially Aussie way, with the diverse range of Australian boutique wines, draught beers and cocktails on offer.

Merchants Wine Cellar & Store
While it’s not exactly an Aussie bar, this boutique wine cellar offers almost 200 artisan wines from various regions across Australia, including Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, Geelong and Margaret River. The place also serves up delicious bistro fare, like slow roasted pork belly, that pairs perfectly with a glass of vino.

Prince of Wales
Despite its location in Little India and being named after a Welsh prince, this backpacker hostel cum bar is as Aussie as it gets. There are plenty of Australian-style counter meals, like chicken parmigiana, to choose from, as well as a selection of Aussie beers, such as Grand Ridge Gippsland Gold.

Men’s Health Urbanathlon

Open to both men and women, this 14km urban obstacle course is widely regarded as one of the most challenging races around. Prove  your mettle by taking on nine tough obstacles, including Wire House (a web of bungee cords) and Leap of Faith (a 2m high tower). There’s also a mystery challenge to shake things up.

Difficulty level: 4/5. This race requires all‑round fitness and stamina (participants need to leap, climb, dodge and crawl), with a significant amount of mental endurance.

Energizer Singapore Night Trail

Navigate the trails of Mandai with only an LED headlight (powered by Energizer, of course) to illuminate the perilous paths ahead. Participants can choose to join the 3km, 6km,  12km or 18km category.

Difficulty level: 3/5. Trail running is tricky enough, with unexpected obstacles to watch out for, so taking on this trail in  the dark just makes the challenge harder.

Swissotel Vertical Marathon
Race dates are yet to be confirmed, but it is slated for November.

Bored of running across flat terrain? Make your way to the top,  literally, by ascending The Swissotel—that’s 1,336 steps over 73 storeys—in the fastest time possible.

Difficulty level: 4/5. Lumbering up steps is tough work. Climbing 73 storeys? We feel weak at the knees already.

Monster Ultra 200

The first-ever edition of this whopping 200km run across the island is open to individual as well as teams of two, three and four. Participants have 48 hours to complete the course, which spans just about every far-flung corner of Singapore, from Kranji to Changi.

Difficulty level: 5/5. This is by far the toughest race on the running calendar. Imagine running the equivalent of 500 rounds of a standard 400m track—we don’t even want to think about it.

Check out these other popular running events for more good reasons to pound the pavement this year. Plus, read our interview with to Daniel Chia from Macritchie Runners 25 group for tips on how to prepare for that big race.

Participate in the No Frills Run 2014, a no-fuss-no-muss event that brings runners back to the good old days of running for the love of the sport—minus the sky-high registration fees. Jan 5

Run in the name of charity at the fourth edition of the NUS Bizad Charity Run, which will aim to raise funds for student bursaries, as well as for Camp Vision and Casa Raudha Women Home (NUS Bizad's newly adopted charities). Participants can choose to run either 5km or 10km. Jan 11

A big hit in the States, the apocalyptic 5km Run For Your Lives obstacle course race has now arrived in Singapore. Participants can choose to be humans or zombies, and there's even a post-race party. Jan 11

If you've ever wondered how fast you can run...with a parachute, the Parachute Dash is the perfect event for you. Go forth and run like the wind. Jan 18

The inaugural MediaCorp Hong Bao Run 2014 will see runners vying for—you guessed it— hongbaos of up to $2888. One lucky participant will even get to win $88,888 in cash in the Grand Lucky Draw. Kickstart the Year of the Horse with a windfall! Registration ($68) is open. Feb 9

Enjoy scenic waterfront views when you walk (or run) the talk at the Marina Run. Choose from a 5km 'Wet & Wild' fun run, or a 10km and 21km 'Light Up the Nite' run. Registration ($40-$50) is open. Feb 15

Participants in this year's Terry Fox Run can choose to run 5km or 10km to help raise funds for the Singapore Cancer Society. There are no registration fees, only donations. Feb 16

The two-stage New Moon Khcycle MetaSprint Series Singapore Aquathlon 2014 starts with a swim along one of Sentosa's beaches, followed by a run to the finishing line on dry land. Registration is till Feb 4, and costs between $91-$132. Feb 16

The annual Valentine Run, organized by Kampong Chai Chee CC, invites just about anyone to run 4.35km in the name of love. Registration costs $12-$18, and will close on Feb 5. Feb 16

In memory of Singapore's favourite orang utan Ah Meng, the unique Safari Zoo Run 2014 will have participants racing among Singapore Zoo and Night Safari's critters. Registration is till Jan 31. Feb 16

Run 10km, 21.1km, or even 42.195km around Marina Bay's urban cityscape during the 2XU Compression Run. Runners will be entitled to various 2XU compression gear depending on the race category they sign up for. Registration will close on Feb 15, so sign up now ($55-$201). Mar 2

Conquer nine exciting and challenging urban obstacles, plus a mystery challenge, at the 14km-long Men's Health Urbanathlon 2014. Registration opens till Jan 31, and costs $128. Mar 2

Take part in the 5km-long X-Bionic Venus Run 2014 for women, which is held in celebration of International Women’s Day. Registration, which costs $45, is through Jan 31. Mar 8

The Carnival Run, organized by Community Sports Clubs in the Aljunied cluster, will feature a 5km route, plus a fun carnival during and after the race. Registration fees are $18-$25. Mar 9

The challenging New Moon Khcycle MetaSprint Series Singapore Duathlon 2014 kicks off with a run over gravel and grass, then segues into a cycling race. Registration is till Mar 4, and costs between $91-$132. Mar 16

The annual PAssion-North East Run 2014 features a 4km fun run and a 14km competitive run, so there's something for just about everyone. Registration costs $16-$28, and closes on Feb 15. Mar 16

Get lost in the concrete jungle in the second edition of the Nathan Singapore City Race. This free-form foot race will see participants running through Singapore's landmarks and busy streets. Register from between $42-$78 from now till Mar 8. Mar 23

Choose from 5km or 10km categories at this non-competitive charity run, which will raise funds for the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped. Registration ($35-$55) is open. Mar 29

Test your endurance and run all night long in the challenging 16-hour Twilight Ultra Challenge 2014. Pit stops, first aid and special needs support are all on hand to keep the experience fun. Registration closes on Jan 31, and costs $90. Mar 29-30

Test your cardio endurance at the annual NUS Biathlon—the Novice category ($22-$25) will see runners completing 8 laps in a pool, followed by a 3km run, while the Open category ($25-$28) comprises of 16 laps and a 5km run. There's also a mixed relay category ($35-$40). Registration is now open. Mar 30

Steps in the Park is a 5km fun run/walk, organized by EmancipAsia, that is aimed at raising awareness about modern day slavery and human trafficking. Registration is now open, and costs just $10. Apr 5

The Singapore Skechers Electric Run 2014 will feature a 5km route that will take participants through distinct "lands", each with its own unique lights and music. Expect neon trees, colored fountains and psychedelic rock cliffs, just to name a few. Registration is now open, and costs $68-$108. Apr 11-12

Stretch your limits with fellow athletes and swim, bike, and run to complete the New Moon Khcycle MetaSprint Series Singapore Triathlon 2014. Registration is till Apr 1, and costs between $71-$225. Apr 13

The fourth edition of the 10km or 21km NTUC Income Run 350 aims to raise awareness of the need to raise lower atmospheric carbon dioxide levels to 350 parts per million, a level scientists believe to be optimal for the Earth's sustainability. Sign up from now till Feb 28 for $40-$65. Apr 27

With varying distances that cater to swimmers of all levels, the TRI-Factor Swim 2014 aims to encourage enthusiasts of the sport to take part in a test of their endurance. Sign up soon ($20.90-$61.90), as registration closes on Apr 3. May 11

The 10.5km Green Corridor Run takes place along a stretch of forest that runs the entire length of Singapore. The surface of the course is a combination of trail, grass, gravel and clay. Registration costs $56 and closes on Mar 31. May 18

The HomeTeamNS REAL Run 2014 will feature men and women competing in junior, standard, and veteran categories. Catch this showdown of physical prowess as runners race on a sprawling track that spans some very tricky beach terrain. Register for $30-$55 from now till Apr 13. May 18

Expect lots of soapy, bubbly fun at Singapore's first ever 5km Foam Run. Registration deadlines and fees TBA. May 24-25

Singapore's pioneer night marathon, the Sundown Marathon 2014 makes a comeback this year, and it promises to be better than ever. Battle sleep and fatigue with thousands of other participants, and try to beat the sunrise. Register ($53-$90) by 30 Apr. May 31

Navigate a 5km course filled with over 10 challenging obstacles, such as mud, barbed wire and ice, at the Lion Dash. The "Sprint" event ($65) will see participants completing just one circuit, while the "Beast" category ($95) will have athletes clocking as many laps as possible in four hours. Registration is now open. Jun 8

Run through the scenic Marina Bay area at the Pocari Sweat Run, where you can choose to participate in either 5km or 10km categories. Of course, there'll be plenty of Pocari Sweat to chug, too. Registration costs $35-$55, and is now open. Jun 8

Scale five 40-storey blocks at the inaugural Toa Payoh Central Vertical Challenge—pets are allowed to participate, too. Register now for $23-$38. Jun 8

Organized by NTU Sports Club, the National Vertical Marathon will have participants climbing up 63 storeys—your quads will definitely feel the burn the day after. Registration ($26-$30) is now open, while early bird rates are till Mar 23. Jun 8

The TRI-Factor Bike 2014 aims to encourage enthusiasts of the sport to push their mental and physical limits and challenge themselves. With varying distances to cater to participants of all abilities. Sign up for $45.90-$99.90 from now till May 4. Jun 8

run around the scenic Jurong Lake at the annual Jurong Lake Run, which will see participants covering distances of 2.5km, 6km and 10km. Registration TBA. Jun 21

At the friendly and relaxed Banana Relay 2014, you'll be able to work in teams of three, using bananas as batons. Make new pals and enjoy a complimentary post-race feast after all that hard work! Registration TBA. Jun 22

It's Batman to the rescue—dress up as your favorite superheroes at the 5km, family-friendly Heroes Run, which also enables runners to decide their own running route. Registration varies between $25-$60, and is now open. Jun 28

Run For Life is organised by Life Community Services Society, and is aimed at raising funds for programmes for the needy. There's a 10km competitive run, as well as a 2.4km fun run/walk. Registration ($40-$50) is open. Jul 19

GK Fun Run: Run to Build 2014 consists of a 4.3km run and an 8.6km run. To celebrate an international community coming together to eradicate poverty, runners are encouraged to dress up in national colors. There'll also be a food fiesta to refuel at after the run. Registration closes June 30. Jul 20

The fourth Energizer Singapore Night Trail Run will see participants using a cool LED headlight to guide them through the dark trails. There will also be carnival activities for the whole family. Registration TBA. Jul 26

The TRI-Factor Run 2014, which is the third installment of the TRI-Factor series, will see participants running their way to the finish line across varying distances, from 1km to 31.5km. Sign up ($25.90-$69.90) by Jun 29. Aug 3

Feel the burn at the Bedok Reservoir Ultramarathon, where participants are required to complete as many 4.3km loops around the reservoir as possible within 12 hours. Participants may run alone, or in teams or two. Registration, which costs $85-$140, is open till Jun 15. Aug 16

Take a stand against racism at the Orange Ribbon Run 2014, which encourages Singaporeans to embrace diversity. Participate in the 3.5km Walk, or 5km and 10km competitive categories. Plus, there'll be a carnival featuring cultural games, food and stage performances. Registration ($13-$38) closes on July 31. Aug 16

This Frost & Sullivan Corporate Challenge 2014 will feature 5km and 10km race categories, as well as a breakfast carnival, where runners can refuel after the race. Registration TBA. Aug 23

Get on your marks for the SAFRA Singapore Bay Run, one of Singapore’s largest and most popular running events. The run comprises a grueling 21km half-marathon, plus a 10km option.Registration TBA. Aug 31

With many different categories to choose from, namely veteran, junior and kids across competitive and non-competitive genres, the TRI-Factor Triathlon 2014 promises to be an active day out for the whole family. Register ($45.90-$145.90) by Aug 3. Sep 7

Endurance runners should participate in the Craze Ultra 2014, which is an ultra-endurance running event that takes participants through many areas of Singapore few have explored or even know about, such as Yishun Dam and Lor Halus Wetland. Participants can choose to run 43km, 78km, 101km or 100 miles. Registration costs between $85-$120, and will close on Jun 15. Sep 20-21 

The Monster Ultra 200 is a 200km (yes, that’s right) run all across the island, open to individuals as well as teams of two, three and four. Participants have 48 hours to complete the course. Registration TBA. Oct 21-Nov 2

The Great Eastern Women's Run, which is the region's largest women-only half marathon, looks set to host over 17,000 participants this year. There'll be 5km, 10km and 21.1km categories to choose from. Nov 9

A major highlight of the local sports calendar, the Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore 2014 comes with with races for individuals, teams, the wheelchair-bound and kids, making it a truly inclusive celebration of sport. Registration TBA. Dec 7

Participants in the MR25 Ultra Marathon have to complete a minimum of five 10.2 km laps. The participant who completes the most laps in 12 hours will emerge tops. Registration TBA. Dec 28

We speak to Daniel Chia from Macritchie Runners 25 group for tips on how to prepare for that big race.

How did the idea for the original Run For Your Lives (RFYL) come about?

Way before events such as Colour Run Singapore and Race The Dead debuted here, we did some research and found that RFYL is actually one of the most popular runs in the United States. We were determined to bring this fun and exciting event to Asia, with Singapore as its first stop. I actually flew over to New Jersey last June to participate in one of the RFYL events as both a Survivor and a Zombie. I also managed to speak to the founder of RFYL and snag the exclusive franchise rights for the race. 

What sets Run For Your Lives apart from other running events (besides the zombies, of course?)

In RFYL, there are high levels of interaction between the Zombies and the Survivors. However, in other thematic runs, participants only run in a single direction with hardly any interaction. 

Why was Singapore chosen as the first Asian destination for the event?

Singapore generally has an active population and very receptive to such novelty ideas. Action X is mainly made up of Singaporeans, and we thought that it would be ideal to kickstart our Asia campaign here. 

Why do you think novelty running events are all the rage these days?

Novelty running events offer an alternative avenue for social interaction, and they catch on well on social media platforms. I think that people are constantly looking for out-of-the-box activities that add spice to their usual routines. Running events offer just that; they enable you to keep fit, stay healthy and have a blast all at once.

Can you offer some training/survivor tips that might be useful in outrunning zombies?

Participating in sports that involve a lot of turning and side stepping, such as rugby and basketball, would help a lot. however, teamwork is most important—gather your forces before overcoming a Zombie Zone, as the Zombies will be confused by a large crowd. Your chances of survival will therefore increase. 

How about some training tips as zombies?

Power runs help a lot! Also, keep a lookout for life flags—some sneaky Survivors may hide their flags behind their backs, so be wary. 

What is the best zombie getup you’ve seen to date?

An undead couple with a zombie foetus crawling out of the mother’s womb.

Why do you think there’s an obsession with zombies in the world right now?

I think it's because there has been a proliferation of zombie-related media recently—take the TV series The Walking Dead, the movie World War Z, and video games such as Left4Dead and Dead Rising, for example. 

Do participants actually become traumatised (burst into tears etc) by the zombies?

No, at least not in the United States. RFYL is a family-friendly event, with kids as young as 8 taking part.  

Does Run For Your Lives have plans to debut in other countries in 2014?

Definitely. We will debut in Taipei on March 29, and in Kao Shiung on May 17. We have plans to make an appearance in Malaysia in July, and may also return to Singapore in October for a Halloween event. We are also currently in talks with various overseas partners in Thailand, Seoul, Australia, Hong Kong and Brunei. 

Run For Your Lives takes place on January 11 at The Padang. Visit www.runforyourlivesasia.com for more details. 

Buona Terra

This establishment offers up contemporary Northern Italian fare, including the Casoncelli al formaggio e Tartufo Casoncelli al formaggio e Tartufo ($36), which is a cheese casoncelli pasta with butter emulsion and seasonal black truffle. 

Casa Tartufo 

Literally translated as House of Truffles, this restaurant serves up many dishes with the aromatic mushroom, which is sourced seasonally year-round from as far afield as Italy, China and Australia. 

Garibaldi Italian Restaurant & Bar

Customers here are allowed to choose the amount of white truffle to be shaved on their dishes, and will be charged at $12 per gram. 

Gattopardo Italian Grill & Pizzabar

Try the Ravioloni di Gambero Rosso e Tartufo Nero ($32), which is a homemade red prawn ravioli with winter black truffle, or the Tartare di Manzo ($32), a Rangers Valley beed tartar with truffled mushroom cream and warm garlic bread. 

Prego

Prego's decadent truffle promotion menu, which runs through Jan 31, features dishes such as the Risotto al Tartufo Bianco ($40), which is a white truffle risotto, and the Quaglie ripiene di Cotechino e Tartufo ($46), which is a Cotechino and black truffle stuffed whole quail served with nebbiolo sauce and white truffle shavings. 

Senso Ristorante & Bar

The seasonal truffle menu here also runs through Jan 31, and features specialties such as homemade potato gnocchi with white truffle ($72), and a pan-seared organic milk-fed veal medallion in herbs crust, Italian vegetables, and shaved white truffle ($98). 

Truffle Gourmet

This place, as its name suggests, serves up just about everything truffly, including a grilled truffled polenta ($14), bruschetta with cream and truffle ($12) and truffle fries ($11).