Raifana, 25

Where did you hear about AirBnB and where did you stay?
I heard about AirBnB through bloggers like Krisatomic, who’ve used the site before. I stayed in a really cute studio in the Gracia neighborhood in Barcelona and paid for two nights, and a one-bedroom apartment in Paris, for which I paid €220 for 2 nights.

How would you compare your homestay with a regular hotel experience?
With a vacation rental, you are put right in the midst of local life and removed somewhat from the usual tourist areas. You pass by neighbors in the hallway, run to the convenience store downstairs for a razor, and for breakfast you buy bread where the locals buy bread. For a few days at least, you get to experience what it’s like to live like a local. It’s more authentic. The apartment owners are often happy to help—both my hosts were lovely and accommodating, and gave endless advice, recommendations, directions and tips. They were boundless sources of knowledge. It’s akin to having a personal concierge in a hotel, only warmer and more genuine. Vacation rentals tend to be cheaper than hotels too!

What did you like about the booking process?
I liked having a third party, it helps to prevent scams and made the entire experience feel safer and more secure. I cannot imagine what it would be like if I got cheated in a foreign city. In the case of AirBnB, the payment is captured by the website and only released after the first night’s stay, so if anything screws up, hosts know that they will not get paid. Their customer service was excellent and I liked that I could sign in using my Facebook account because I’m usually too lazy to create new accounts. Facebook login also helps the website verify your identity, phone number and other info. The whole process, from finding apartments and approaching hosts to making payment for the actual stay was very smooth and fuss-free.

So no bad experiences?
I did encounter something unpleasant while booking an apartment in Geneva. I had contacted a host and several exchanges had been made—she gave me her word that the reservation was mine, and even proposed a cheaper price. But barely a half hour after I had made payment, the host backed out claiming she’d forgotten she’d promised the apartment to someone else on the dates promised. Payment was made using a Singaporean credit card so refunds were estimated to take up to three weeks. This was very inconvenient for me as I was going to be traveling and could not have my funds inaccessible to me during that period. Thankfully, AirBnB’s customer service stepped up and promptly provided solutions. They suggested other properties I could look into and allowed me to transfer my credit from the botched reservation for the new one. They even offered to top up the extra cost if the new property I was interested in was more expensive.

So you’d recommend AirBnB?
Definitely. I love discovering new hotels in different cities but vacation rentals are perfect for when you’re traveling in a group. I’m very impressed with AirBnB so I’ll stick to the website for all my vacation rental needs. I may try another website if I can’t find suitable accommodation.

Luke Norman, founder of Be Disloyal & his girlfriend, Rowena Paz

How did you find out about AirBnB?
RP: It was through a NYTimes article reviewing vacation rental websites. We were planning our trip to Australia and hotels were very expensive. I was excited to find other more affordable options.

Any concerns about using it at first?
RP: I was concerned about going in blind to the rooms and owners but I appreciated the reviews that other members had provided before. It felt like it took some of the guess work away.
LN: We were also worried about having a location that was near to public transit and had enough privacy.

What did you like (or didn’t) about the booking process?
RP: Great filtering options and map interface. I liked that I was able to see just places in St. Kilda or Fitzroy. The number of potential places to stay was great too… so many choices! I wish it’d been easier to find out more about the amenities though. It needs to be clearer which rooms have private bathrooms or TV.

Where did you stay?
LN: We stayed right outside Melbourne in St. Kilda. It was a great option. The couple we stayed with had a simple but nice two-bedroom in an older three to four-storey apartment. The style was very Art Deco, right down to the doorknobs—very cool. The couple was really nice and showed us their favorite weekend market. If you’re considering moving to a city, AirBnB is a great trial run!

Another other booking sites you’d like to recommend? What do you think is the future of such sites?
RP: I’ve used VRBO for a US house rental, and I think this system is great. We will be recommending AirBnB as an option for our out-of-town guests when they come to San Diego for our wedding next year.
LN: Rental sites are perfect for budget travelers and those planning a longer stay. It adds a lot more character to the experience as compared to a hotel stay.

Farizan Fauzan, Delta Airlines Reservation Agent, 28

How did you find out about AirBnB?
I was Googling cheap accommodation in the United States when I chanced upon the AirBnB website.

Did you have any concerns before using it?
Yes, I wondered a little if owners were making up or embellishing the facts about their home. I got paranoid that they’d turn out to be conmen or serial killers. After doing more research, I decided to go with my instinct and give it a shot.

What did you like about the process?
I like the fact that I was paying less for occupying a whole house than I would’ve for a cramped hotel room.

Where did you stay?
We stayed in a studio apartment by the Hudson River in New York. It was accessible from everywhere (Staten Island ferry terminal, Brooklyn Bridge, etc.) and we could see the Statue of Liberty from one side. It was in a safe neighborhood. The homeowner was nice and cute, too! On another occasion, we stayed in a three-storey home in Portland, Oregon. There was a direct bus from the airport and we had the entire second floor to ourselves! The house was also located in the middle of a hip area, with many thrift and food stores to explore, including my all-time favorite Whole Foods. The owner was a Buddhist astrologer who had great taste in music and eclectic home décor.

Would you recommend it?
I would and I have. Plus every referral gets you a $25 credit voucher for a future stay!

Have you heard of other sites?
Yes, I’ve heard of Couchsurfing but it’s less secure because it’s free and truly at your own risk. AirBnB offers insurance.

Ira Aznor, Graphic designer

What did you like/didn’t about the Roomorama booking process?
It was smooth and straight forward. All the information stated on the website was clear and easy to understand. Everything was explained upfront and if we had any queries, we could contact the apartment owners, who were very prompt with their responses. At first, I was worried about having to pay a high security deposit fee, but on Roomorama, some hosts don't require a deposit.

Where did you stay?
I went to London and Paris and they were both delightful, considering it was my first time in Europe and I was traveling alone. I was very lucky to have chosen the perfect apartments for my stay. In London, I was in the Earl's Court area and the studio apartment was really cozy. It faced a beautiful private garden. I loved it so much I'd sleep in on rainy mornings instead of going out to explore. I stayed in a quaint studio apartment on Ile-St-Louis when I was in Paris. That was a five-minute walk from Notre Dame.

Would you recommend Roomorama? 
Yes, the website is easy to navigate and there are options to suit your budget and other constraints.

COVER STORY: Rise of the Vacation Rental

Awesome Villas
Rated “Excellent” by TripAdvisor for its coverage of Phuket’s Kamala beach, this high-end villa rental and sales site’s USP is that the founder, Joanne Baylis, personally stays and checks on each listed property. The focus is on ultra swank spots like the three-bedroom Villa Chi (just a five-minute walk from Kamala Beach) featuring incredible sea views and a 16-meter infinity swimming pool, which goes from $750 per night.

Bali Tropical Villas
In operation for more than 17 years, this Bali specialist has over 500 properties across the island. Expect diverse options from remote beaches or mountains to better known spots in Seminyak, Kerobokan and Sanur. A luxe pick is Taman Ahimsa Retreat, a seven-bedroom eco-getaway built using recycled iron, tamarind and teak woods. Dedicated chefs are also on hand, serving organic, macrobiotic and ayurvedic meals. The rate’s the same through the site or direct at www.taman-ahimsa.com: US$2,700 ($3,476) for the peak season from June 1-September 15.

The Villa Guide
Covering Indonesia, The Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand, The Villa Guide offers a cute, irreverent voice, an easy-to-navigate site and a carefully curated selection of properties. Among the highlights is Suralai, high in the hills overlooking Koh Samui’s Bophut Bay. This kick-ass spot sleeps 12 and comes with its own private chef. It goes from US$1,530 ($1,965) through the site, versus US$1,200 ($1,540) when booking direct through www.suralai.com.

Balzac Brasserie
Chef Jean-Charles' three-course brunch menu ($68++) includes coffee or tea and has a second option with free flow Lenoble Champagne ($128++). Expect hot favorites such as the Oeuf cocotte with lobster emulsion, roasted Wagyu beef steak and a dessert buffet. All fathers also get a free glass of beer.

Barnacles Restaurant
If dad's a beer guzzler, check out the restaurant's Father's Day 2012 Garden Party by the Sea on June 17, 12-3pm. At $128++ per adult, this seafood buffet features Fine de Claire oysters and activities for the kids.

Buyan
Enjoy an exotic brunch (June 17, 11am-3pm; $55++ per person) featuring blinis (a thin Russian breakfast pancake) with assorted fillings such as pirozhki, pelmeni, vareniki or beef stroganoff. Dad will get to enjoy a complimentary Abrau Durso Sparkling. 

Café Brio
Specially for Father's Day 2012, the cafe has introduced a lunch slash high tea buffet (June 16-17, 12-4:30pm; $52++ per person, $92++ with free flow of sparkling wine, house wine, beer, juice or soft drinks). Highlights include turkey émincé with button mushrooms and heart-shaped raspberry passion cake for dessert.

Carousel
If the family gets hungry whilst shopping along Orchard Road this Father’s Day, drop by this buffet for some rotisserie Prime rib and seafood. Lunch ($58++, 12-2pm), dinner ($68++, 6:30-10:30pm) and high tea ($40++, 3:30-5:30pm) are available. Dad will get a complimentary Troika keyring and the chance to win a Calvin Klein watch.

Charly T's
Head down for their signature beef burger from June 11-17 and watch the old man enjoy his free Budweiser (and yours too, if you're nice).

Chinois
A family of four can opt for this Chinese restaurant, which infuse a bit of Western influence into their offerings. Their Father’s Day 2012 menu ($60-80 per person), for example, features crispy kurobuta pork and braised chicken with black truffle and lotus leaf. Available from June 1-17.

The Cliff
Enjoy some boozy bonding time with your dad at their Father’s Day 2012 Beer Pairing six-course set dinner on June 17 (6:30-12am, last order at 9:30pm) for $180++. Belgian beers with intriguing names (heard of La Trappe Double or Delirium Nocturnum anyone?) will be paired with delectables such as pan-seared foie gras and an 80% Guanaja Black Forest mud cake.

Fat Cow
Voted Best New Restaurant at our Reader’s Choice Awards 2012, Fat Cow is offering a six-course degustation menu at $180++ from June 11-16, 6 -10:30pm, specially for Father's Day 2012. The star item here is Wagyu, which features in dishes such as their ox tendon with foie gras and charcoal grilled Snake River farms ribeye. 

My Humble House
This establishment offers a fine dining Chinese experience with their Father's Day 2012 menu (available up till June 17; $288-368 per person), which includes winter melon braised with Bird’s Nest and ‘Jin Hua’ ham or claypot braised pork belly with baby potatoes.

il Lido
From June 16-17, large families of 10-24 people can enjoy an Italian luncheon in one of their private rooms. At $88++ per person for their four-course Father’s Day 2012 weekend lunch menu, start off with a complimentary glass of Italian sparkling Lambrusco before moving on to goose liver with butternut cake and marsala wine. Their mains feature a crab cappelletti with prosecco and basil foam or a Wagyu beef cheek with truffle mousseline.

Osia
A decadent Dad will be well satisfied with this award-winning restaurant's set menus (three-course for $95++, four-course for $125++, five-course for $150++) and wine pairings ($75++ per person) created just for June 17. The menu includes polenta crumbled foie gras, grainge black angus beef tenderloin and Valrhona hot chocolate soup.

Palio
Palio does a mean 1.2kg flame-grilled Tomahawk steak for their Father’s Day 2012 a la carte menu (as well as other items ranging from $16-180++). Some Birra Moretti Italian beer would go nicely with that, plus a side of deep fried potato risotto dumplings.

Pantry at The Stables
If dad's a nature lover, a Father's Day lunch amidst lush greenery may be a good idea. Try their three-course dinner set menu from June 12-17 ($49++, 6-10:30pm), which includes items like linguine Aglio Olio with crispy pork belly.

Princess Terrace Café
Their Penang buffet rarely disappoints, with delights such as double-boiled whole duck with Ten Treasures herbal soup and duck thigh mee sua. Available on June 9, 10, 16 and 27 for both lunch and dinner at up to $58++ per adult and $38++ per child.

Spices Café
Available June 16-17 are their weekend afternoon tea buffet (12-4:30pm; $48++ per adult, $24++ per child) and international seafood buffet dinner (6:30-10:00pm, $60++ per adult, $30++ per child). If you like what you see (or have), make sure to participate in their Father's Day 2012 lucky draw, where you can win buffet vouchers worth up to $96++. 

Sque Rotisserie & Alehouse
Fans of the rotisserie should definitely reserve a spot at their weekend Father's Day 2012 buffet (12-3pm, $38++ per adult, $18++ per child). Sque also offers happy hour prices on all draught beers from 11:30am-7pm and 9-11pm—get on that.

The Vacuvin Elegant Champagne cooler will have you sipping on a chilled glass of bubbly in just five minutes flat. $99 from Tangs.

Turn up the volume with Logitech Mini Boombox, compact yet powerful wireless bluetooth speakers—great for pumping, bass-heavy music. $109 from Challenger.

Sip on some very cold Accademia dei Vinattieri Prosecco Spumante DOC NV with soft bubbles and hints of apple. $40.50 from 1855 The Bottle Shop.

Protect your skin from those evil rays with a light straw hat like this fine specimen. $135 from Zadig & Voltaire.

A pimped out suitcase-like picnic basket that features an aluminum foil cooler compartment with a zipper, and comes with cutlery, plates and cups for four. $89 from Green Home Nature Living.

Susie Watson picnic rug’s so plush it’s easy to forget you’re actually sitting on grass. And it even comes in its own bag, talk about handy. $200 from Tatty Marsh.

Slather on LOVEA Creme visage BIO 50ml SPF50 organic sunscreen (right), packed with natural anti-ageing ingredients ($32 from Bud Cosmetics), then refresh yourself with The Body Shop’s Vitamin C Energising Face Spritz ($20.90).

JiBiru Japanese Craft Beer Bar

It’s a simple set-up, but the reason we come here has everything to do with the exclusive brews you can’t find elsewhere such as the Shiga Kogen.

Prelude

A terrific alternative to Ku Dé Ta, Prelude’s got a great view of Marina Bay and cool summer cocktails. Arrive early for the choicest seating.

Privé Waterfront Bar

This sleek gastrobar on the waterfront is a fab spot to wile away a cool evening. They even offer DIY cocktails, for those (literally) looking to shake things up.

Tanjong Beach Club

Destination central for beautiful people looking for a dose of luxe living by the sea. We’re suckers for their day beds (just be sure to reserve yours in advance).

Wild Oats

Housed in a colonial mansion on Emily Hill with rattan chairs and a sprawling garden, Wild Oats is ideal for lounging to a soundtrack of laidback house grooves.

In case you haven’t noticed, summer is officially here. Yes, we’re in tropical Singapore, but it’s been even more scorching than usual. That said, don’t be a wuss and let the heat deter you from going outside. There are heaps of exciting events happening in the next few weeks, with everything from open air concerts and nature walks, to bikeathons and movie screenings, as well as beach parties and booze fests, so go check them out now.

1. Hit up them beach parties
One of summer’s greatest highlights is the beach, and more accurately, the skimpily-clad bikini babes and buff bods on display. You’ll find those in abundance at Tanjong Beach Club’s debauched Full Steam Ahead - Summer Showdown bash on June 2, from 4pm, complete with a thinly veiled excuse to celebrate the full moon and spunky electro dance, house and trance mashups by The Steam Team.

Have a model fetish? Then Azzura’s weekly Models Beach Party might be right up your alley. Resident DJs Haan, Amara and Gaijin keep it pumping with R&B grooves from 6pm every Sunday.

Check out other Great Outdoor Bars in Singapore.

2. Check out Singapore’s only Farmers’ Market
If you’ve yet to make a trip down, we suggest you get on that pronto. A farmers’ market blooms on the first and third Saturday of every month at The Pantry in Loewen Gardens, offering up a range of fresh, organic produce, gourmet meats, cheese and wine, and even home baked goodies to indulge your epicurean tendencies. The next one rolls around on June 2 from 8:30am-2pm. Make a stop here for supplies to fill up your picnic basket with!

Don't know what to get? Check out our list of Things to Buy for the the Perfect Picnic.

3. Take part in a shootout
Sharpen your photography skills and learn new techniques with Baobab Photography’s three-hour Marina Bay Sunset Shootout course. Meet like-minded photo enthusiasts, get guidance from an expert as you walk and snap shots of the Esplanade, Merlion and Marina Bay Sands. The course is held on June 14, 6pm and costs a cool 100 bucks. Don’t forget to bring your DSLR.

4. Run for a good cause
Do something good for yourself and the community with these two running events as money raised goes to charity. Stretch your legs out at Jurong Lake Run, featuring a scenic route of lush greenery with highlights such as Jurong Lake Park, as well as cultural landmarks including Chinese Garden and Japanese Garden on July 8 at 7:30am. Take it easy with a 3km run or push yourself with a more full-on 6km or 10km race. There are even cash prizes to be won.

If you’re after something a little more challenging (and want a little more time to prep), give Race against Cancer a go. There are competitive 10km or 15km runs, as well as a non-competitive 5km Fun Run. Race starts at 7am on July 22 at Angsana Green in East Coast Park.

5. Paddle in the Dragon Boat Festival
Don’t just be witness to the fervent rowing and loud drumming, be part of the excitement as you race down Bedok Reservoir towards the finish line. Plus, you’ll earn yourself some crazy guns in the training process. The races are from June 30 to July 1, visit the Singapore Dragon Boat Association website to register.

6. Experience Ballet Under The Stars
The annual outdoor ballet event by Singapore Dance Theatre, Ballet Under the Stars (or BUTS as it’s affectionately known to fans), is back again. It takes place at Fort Canning Park this year from July 20-22, showcasing classical and contemporary ballet performances including the world premiere of Organ Concerto by Nils Christe. Great date idea, if we ever saw one. Doors open at 5pm for picnic-goers (check out our perfect picnic kit), with performances starting at 7:30pm.

7. Rock out at Baybeats
Back for its 10th installment, Baybeats is a showcase of over 30 local and regional bands from Japan, Indonesia, Thailand and Hong Kong. This year’s line-up will see local talent like rock act Cashew Chemists and alternative folk band Pep Talk, joined by Korean ska band Copy Machine and Malaysia’s Love Me Butch. Baybeats takes place at several venues at the Esplanade from June 29 through July 1.

8. Celebrate classical music
Make a date with Tünde Krasznai, an internationally-acclaimed Hungarian pianist, who will be performing Chopin at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage in the Botanic Gardens on June 2, from 6:30pm. For more info, visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens website.

Just a week after is Opera in the Park, a result of the combined efforts of The Singapore Lyric Opera’s orchestra, opera chorus, youth choir and children’s choir. Enjoy some picnicking under the stars while taking in pieces like ‘The Barber of Seville’ by Rossini, as well as other pieces by greats including Mozart, Dvorak, and Puccini. The opera starts at 6pm on June 9, also at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage. For more info, visit the Singapore Opera website.

9. Camp out at St. Johns Island
Take an overnight trip to St. Johns Island, just off the southern coast of Singapore, on June 9-10. Organized by Nature Society Singapore and Singapore’s Adventurer’s Club, the excursion features an educational nature and tidal walk. We say, bring your friends, lots of beer and have a barbeque to make full use of this quick getaway from the city. Visit the Nature Society Singapore website for more info.

10. Dance the Zumba
For those who’ve yet to give Zumba a go, 180 FitStyle @ The Singapore Flyer - Sky Deck is the ideal excuse. Go ahead and try a new fitness routine as LifeSparks hosts a mass Zumba Fitness Dance Workout on June 22, from 6:30-9:30pm. It’s being held right underneath the Singapore Flyer, so you’ll get to watch the sunset as Australian Instructor Cassie Blazer leads you through the steps. Email Lifesparks for more info.

11. Do the Green Trail
Want to really immerse yourself in nature? Then be sure to check out NDP’s LovingSG Green Trail that launches come July. It’s like a treasure hunt with 10 checkpoints (you stand a chance to win some cool prizes if you finish it within two weeks). Check out the NDP website for more info.

12. Speed down the Paya Lebar Airbase
Before you’re tempted to dismiss the National Runway Cycling and Skating event as just another one of those crazy fitness things, take note that this annual event’s on June 17 is the only day of the year that the usually out-of-bounds Paya Lebar Airbase is opened and cleared just to make way for racing enthusiasts to compete in a 45km bicycle route or a 30km skating contest. Event starts at 8am.

13. Get boozed up at Beerfest
Whether you’re a serious brew guzzler or a light beer-drinker, the sheer variety of offerings at this roaring four-day outdoor affair are sure to impress. They’ve added over 50 new tipples to the already illustrious list including local Jungle Beer’s American IPA and Schneider Weisse Aventinus Eisbock from Germany, bringing the grand total to a whopping 350 labels. Go with a group of friends and have a great time scarfing down beers, while tribute bands like Hell’s Belles and Blues Brothers provide the live entertainment. Prep starts now as the festival runs from June 7-10 at the Marina Promenade. Log on to the official Beerfest Asia website for more info.

14. Catch the opening of Gardens by the Bay
Certainly one of the most anticipated events of 2012. The inauguration of the Bay South Garden kicks off with a Jason Mraz concert on June 29, followed by a performance by Corrine May on June 30. The Supertree Light and Sound Show happens twice nightly from July 2. The festivities begin on June 29 and run through July 8 at Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive.

15. Watch a film screening
National Geographic fans take note. View some of the most amazing scenes of life beneath the waves through the Californian kelp forests, Great Barrier Reef in Australia, and Roca Partida Island off the coast of Mexico as WWF screens OCEANWORLD on June 9, 7:30pm at Dalbergia Green in East Coast Park. See the WWF website or details.

If your tastes veer towards more mainstream stuff like X-Men First Class and Transformers, then MovieMob’s a good option. The crew sets up secret fortnightly film screenings flashmob style with drive-in and non-drive-in nights, you even get to vote for what you’d like to see on their site and register to be notified a week in advance.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Party/Festival of the Year
ZoukOut
There’s just no stopping the annual beach dance music festival, already in its 11th year, despite stiff competition from Laneway and Mosaic. More than 26,000 punters (another record year) made their way to Siloso Beach for a round of the latest dance sounds by Roger Sanchez, Armin Van Buuren and Ladytron, dancing their way through sunset till sunrise.

Best Concert Venue
Esplanade—Theatres on the Bay
This is where the likes of rocks stars Yeah Yeah Yeahs and avant-garde theater director Robert Wilson have held performances—proof that the Esplanade is the city’s most versatile concert venue. Its outdoor concourse area, a platform for local bands to jam at, gets an extra vote from us.

Best Exhibition or Arts Event
Dali—Mind of a Genius
Mind-boggling or mind-blowing? Readers reckoned that Catalan surrealist Salvador Dali’s debut solo exhibition at the ArtScience Museum featuring over 250 works including iconic pieces like Alice in Wonderland, Woman Aflame and the Mae West Lips Sofa belonged to the latter.

Best Museum
Singapore Art Museum / SAM at 8Q
SAM’s the man. One of the city’s oldest museums (it turns 16 this year) is also the most relevant, putting out annual blockbuster shows (2011’s massive video art exhibition in collaboration with Centre Pompidou) at its main wing, plus more contemporary exhibitions showcasing the works of emerging young local and Southeast Asian artists at sister gallery 8Q. We like.

Best Art Gallery
The Substation
The city’s original outsider art space finally gets the recognition it deserves. From confounding performance art pieces to works by emerging and interesting young artists and designers, regular experimental exhibitions held here keep it on the periphery. Not anymore.

Best Theater Company
W!ld Rice
Artistic director Ivan Heng and team have a knack for reworking classics into hip, energetic plays (the recent Romeo & Juliet) and brave, witty pieces that take subtle jibes at the government (Cooling Off Day), and for that they got your vote.

Artist(s) of the Year
:phunk Studio and Sean Lee
One is a four-piece design collective gaining further international recognition for their Pop Art-inspired silkscreened works, collaborating with legendary Jap artist Keiichi Tanaami for the last two years; the other a winner of the ICON de Martell Cordon Bleu award for his dark autobiographical photos which have been compared to the works of Cindy Sherman. Both are testaments to the sophisticated state of the local art scene today.

SHOPPING

Best Fashion Brand
Hansel
Fashionistas can’t get enough of local womenswear designer Jo Soh’s vintage-inspired creations that are a hit among tai tais and hip young things alike. Hansel was also a winner for Best Fashion Brand last year.

Best Indie Boutique
Blackmarket
Also a winner in the same category last year, proprietor Jasmine Tuan’s 1,500-sq. ft. boutique is still the go to place for edgy contemporary fashion, with its unpredictable mix of quirky menswear (brands like Evenodd) and funky accessories (Stone For Gold).

Best Bookstore
Kinokuniya
Although smaller indie book retailers like Books Actually and Littered with Books are fast gaining ground, readers still prefer staple giant Kinokuniya. Although the bookish certainly won’t find more variety under one roof. Prices are more competitive, too.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Best Gym
Fitness First
Singapore’s largest fitness chain has 11 outlets altogether, equipped with cycling and Mind & Body Studios, as well as indoor and outdoor pools. Our pick is their One George Street outlet, with a heated infinity pool and a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

Best Spa
Banyan Tree Spa
If what you desperately need is an escape, this tropical wellness destination is probably your best bet. Its majestic location means you get unrivaled views of the gorgeous cityscape, and facilities such as the heavenly double rain-mist room do their job of making you feel like royalty.

Best Yoga Studio
Pure Yoga
With an extensive variety of classes like Restorative Yoga and Ashtanga, not to mention over 100 classes per week, it’s no wonder they’ve garnered such a loyal following.

Best Gym Alternative
Wave House Sentosa
People from all over the world visit just to try their hand (and feet) at international sensation, the Flow Barrel. And once you get off, you can hit the bar for a couple of chilled beers. Who said working out has to be boring?

Best Pilates Studio
Sky Pilates
If you’re not into mat work, then give one of the city’s largest machine-based studios a go.

NIGHTLIFE

Nightspot of the Year
Zouk
The granddaddy of local club culture is still No.1 with weekly offerings of top-notch international acts (too many to name) that get clubbers all worked up on the dancefloors. Its growing stable of local in-house DJs and producers makes going down to the club anytime of the week a rewarding experience too.

Best Lounge Club
Velvet Underground
Following a $3 million revamp late last year, the luxe lounge club now comprises two distinctive areas: Velvet Underground-Dance is where punters can groove to some smooth house tunes, while the lounge has tables from $1,500 (only a dozen tables up for grabs each night) and coveted Warhol paintings for you to gawk at. How’s that for lounge-worthy?

Best Bar / Best Rooftop Bar
Ku Dé Ta
High cover charges aside, we love this Balinese import atop the Marina Bay Sands with its killer view, good cocktails and a smooth playlist. Explains why it won in both categories.

Best New Bar / Best Cocktail Bar
28 HongKong Street
Word’s out: 28 HongKong Street is the freshest new watering hole in town, nabbing two wins for Best New Bar and Best Cocktail Bar. Never mind that it was all hush hush when it first started operations, the cocktails here are potent stuff. Plus, they make some killer nibbles, all the better to pad your stomach with.

Best Live Music Venue
Timbre @ The Substation
Owners Danny Loong and Edward Chia keep the local live music scene rocking with daily live performances by bands such as 53A and Goodfellas.

Best Microbrewery
Brewerkz
Marking its 15th anniversary this year, there’s still no beating Brewerkz when it comes to microbreweries, with recent innovations like a beer brewed with red sticky rice following an ancient Chinese recipe (who would have thought?). Various locations.

Best Wine Bar
Wine Connection
Affordable wines. Check. Great outdoor space. Check. This household wine bar and retailer is the go-to place for quality wines with locations at Cuppage Terrace and Robertson Walk, with a new concept at Robertson Walk added late last year that is already packing them in. Various locations.

Dining

Best Restaurant
Les Amis
After all this time, still one of the best damn restaurants in the city. The ambiance is lovely, the wait staff seriously know their stuff, there’s a remarkably comprehensive wine menu and the French fare is nothing short of sublime.

Best New Restaurant
Fat Cow
A recent addition to join the steakhouse movement with a modern Japanese twist, this classy establishment is all about the beef—Wagyu, of course. If you can, score yourself a seat at the counter in front of the open concept kitchen—chatting with the chefs as they prep your food is half the fun. Mean cocktails, too.

Chef of the Year
Justin Quek—Sky on 57
Homegrown local boy Justin Quek’s returned to Singapore to helm Sky on 57, featuring scrumptious Asian- and Singapore-inspired dishes, as well as a dazzling view. Looks like you folks are fans, giving Quek the title over several other very worthy local celeb chefs.

Best Brunch
Wild Honey
This all-day breakfast spot has some loyal fans, as is evident from the long line snaking around their entrance, particularly on weekends. In fact, they’ve been such a roaring success that they’ve recently opened a second outlet at Scotts Square (fortunately, this one actually takes reservations), although the homey rusticity of the original is hard to beat.

Best Coffee Joint
40 Hands
When this specialty coffee spot, founded by Perth native and barista Harry Grover, set up shop in Tiong Bahru, we really took notice; as did a steady stream of fellow caffeine addicts it seems.

Best Dessert Spot
2am:dessertbar
We’re pleased to report that chef-owner Janice Wong has really hit her stride at this dessert lounge, with innovative creations that often feature unusual ingredients that she incorporates in surprising ways. You’ve gotta love that they’re open till two in the morning (we sure do).

Best Hawker Center
Old Airport Road
It’s a bit of a trek to get out here, but it’s completely worth it for some of the best street food around. Most of the hawkers have been in the business for over 20 years. Translation: authentic, cheap and tasty grub. 51 Old Airport Rd.

TRAVEL

Asia Pacific’s Best Airline
Singapore Airlines
Yet again, the national carrier reigns supreme. Singapore Airlines remains the go-to for plushy spare-no-expense flying.

Best Budget Airline
Jetstar
With the most comprehensive choice of routes (29 and counting) including fresh additions such as Hanoi and Osaka, this inexpensive sibling to Qantas is your top pick

Best New Hotel
Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa
This five-star Sentosa Island getaway brings staycations to a whole new level. The interior blends colonial and contemporary influences, and their Onsen and Penthouse Suites feature outdoor Japanese-style hot tubs and private rooftop pools.

Best Boutique Hotel
Wanderlust
Singaporean hotelier Loh Lik Peng’s latest project hasn’t lost last year’s crown. Not only is this smartly designed space smack in the middle of the food bonanza that is Little India, it also boasts an excellent French restaurant, Cocotte.

Best Hotel
Fullerton Bay Hotel
Set above the smooth waters of Marina Bay, this hotel has it all, luxe décor (marble floors, walls upholstered in leather and stained glass mirrors), a rooftop bar with sweeping views of the bay, a rooftop gym, and Wi-Fi throughout.

Best Weekend Getaway
Bali
Winner for the second year running, Bali proves that this tropical island escape never loses it charm.

Heritage Initiative of the Year
We Support the Green Corridor
This initiative by the Nature Society Singapore aims to keep the now disused Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) Railway—connecting Singapore and Malaysia—and the surrounding land as a Green Corridor.

TECH

Coolest App
YourSingapore Guide
Some great features include the built-in maps—very pretty and fairly precise—and its ability to post on Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare. Plus it’s got most of the city covered.

Most Promising Startup
Gushcloud
A fun marketing platform that encourages people to share stuff they like in exchange for rewards from brands and businesses.

Best Blogger
Mr. Brown
Mr. Brown offers his take on the important things that happen in Singapore, unleashing his wit and sarcasm on people who just don’t get it. Take that.

Readers' Choice Awards 2012 We received thousands of votes in the 2012 Readers' Choice Awards (the most ever) and here's your pick on the best, coolest, most awesome individuals, venues, products and services Singapore has to offer. See all 41 winners and the full list of nominees in this free downloadable guide.

Rising stars David Choi, Jason Chen and Singaporean Clarence Liew will be at The YouTube Stars Concert on May 5.

Somebody's gonna get hurt (or be in painful stitches, at least) at the Russell Peters: Notorious World Tour 2012 Singapore from May 5-6.

The Morrissey Greatest Hits Tour Live concert in Singapore is set to be the most heated stage event this month. May 8. Check out our interview with Mad Morrissey himself.

Not everything about Kelis has to do with milkshakes and you'll find out why at her May 12 gig at Avalon.

One of the fashion events we're looking forward to the most is the Audi Fashion Festival (May 16-20), which features the likes of Thierry Mugler and Zac Posen this year.

The über hip party people have struck again, with an exciting lineup of musical and art-bent DJs at  Midnight Shift x Zouk: Now is Found (May 18).

See how a group of artists translates the Asian middle class population's obsession with luxury shopping into masterpieces at the Buy Bye exhibition (through May 20).

Anyone whose live revolves around whisky (either professionally or as a favorite poison) will haev an enjoyable time at Whisky Live Singapore 2012 (May 21), a sampling showcase that's now in its third year.

50 local and international artistes will be at Music Matters Live! 2012 (May 24-26), which is the performance segment of a giant music conference.

The Lady Gaga Born This Way Ball has been expanded to three shows (May 28-29, 31) so the pop queen can fit all her Monsters into one visit.

On May 12-13 (12-4:30pm), Café Brio at the lobby of the Grand Copthorne Waterfront will be serving lunch and high tea buffets featuring barbecue items such as prosciutto wrapped with cantaloupe, jumbo king prawn with asparagus spear and mild spicy tomato cream sauce, and crispy pork belly with Thai chili sauce. Mothers will take home a goodie bag and stand a chance to win attractive lucky draw prizes. $52 per person and $92 with free flow of sparkling wine, house wine, beer, juice and soft drinks (excludes additional charges). Book by April 29 and enjoy a 20 percent early bird discount.

On May 12-13, Bontá Italian Restaurant & Bar will have a special Mother's Day menu featuring trout, homemade angelhair pasta and braised Wagyu beef cheek. $88++ with coffee or tea.

From May to July, District 10 Bar & Restaurant will give a couple of classic dishes a blue spin to represent tranquility and stability, which are said to be mommy-like traits. Expect blueberry pancakes with maple syrup, penne with blue cheese sauce and cherry tomatos, as well as three blue curacao-based cocktails: Nutty Sea, Barrio 10 and Long Beach.

If you just want to get out of the city for a bit, The Glass House at Hotel Fort Canning is a great option. There'll be an instant photo booth set up on Mother's Day (May 13), as well as a special buffet lunch (available 12-3pm for $68++ per adult) featuring Asian favorites such as sushi rolls, pan fried carrot cake, Singapore laksa, roasted spring chicken, assorted nyonya kueh and even an ice kacang station. Moms dine free with a UOB credit card (minimum four paying adults).

Planning to spend the weekend in Orchard? Goodwood Park is offering special Mother's Day menus (May 12-13) throughout the hotel, with a lunch/high tea buffet (12-2:30pm, 3-5:30pm; $54) at the Coffee Lounge serving items like pork knuckle with fermented beancurd and chicken curry with bread. A four-course set lunch ($88) and six-course set dinner ($118) will also be available at Gordon Grill, with everything from cold angel hair pasta with abalone, caviar and white truffle vinaigrette, to slow-cooked ibérico pork loin with savoy cabbage, apple puree and natural jus. You may want to take home the hotel's signature durian mousse cake ($58-155) too to celebrate.

Dinner at the airy Graze at Martin No. 38 gains a refreshing experience with executive chef Chris Donnellan's special Mother's Day creations: the eight-hour slow-roasted lamb with portobello mushroom mousseline, sweet corn puree and confit shallots ($38), as well as the Spanner crab omelette with black truffle salsa ($27). Moms will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco or mocktail.

For a quiet and relaxing Sunday brunch, head to Graze at Rochester Park for their charcuterie and seafood platters. Special dinner menus will also be available, with highlights such as crispy barramundi and roasted lamb leg. Mothers celebrating with family will enjoy a complimentary Mimosa.

Thai restaurant Kha will make an exception for Mother's Day in Singapore and open that Sunday (May 13) with an attractive set menu for four and a special one-day-only item: the mother-in-law eggs with chili jam, traditional Thai sauce nam prik plaa and herbs. Moms enjoy an anti-oxidant mocktail on the house.

Aside from a menu featuring dishes popular with the ladies (they're Thai crabmeat salad, soft shell crab vermicelle in hotpot and seabass fillet with black pepper sauce if you're interested), Lerk Thai is also offering 90% off the Mother's Day set menu ($198) for 90-year-old mothers, while 100-year-old mothers dine for free.

Chef Laurent Peugeot will be whipping out recipes from his own mother's collection for LP+Tetsu's elaborate Mother's Day dinner menu (May 12-13; $150++ per person). If you haven't experienced Chef Peugeot's adventurous culinary style, this will be a good time to try, with Japanese favorites such as tairagai and itoyori fillet, scampi and French mainstays veal and Brillat-Savarin cheese as highlights. Moms also receive a heart-shaped chocolate cake and attendance to a free cooking demo in June.

From May 12-13, Intercontinental Singapore will host buffet high tea and dinner, as well as set menus special for Mother's Day. The high tea buffet (12:30-4pm; $42) at Olive Tree will feature Indian food, dim sum and local delights such as Teochew porridge and kueh pie tee, while the dinner buffet (7-10:30pm; $58will consist of a fresh seafood selection, assorted maki roll and sashimi, plus Olive Tree's signature drunken prawns in herbal broth. If your mom loves Cantonese fare, pick a set menu (11:40am-3:30-pm and 6:30-10:30pm; $288-988 for up to 10 persons) at Man Fu Yuan, which includes longevity buns.

For large families, we recommend checking out the TungLok Group of restaurants, which will make available special menus for the period of May 1-13. Lao Beijing ($168-688 for up to 10 persons) will have traditional roast Peking duck and Beijing-style sweet and sour fish amongst other things, while LingZhi ($168-578 for up to 10 persons) will serve signature vegetarian dishes such as chilled chlorella lace noodles served with spicy sauce and chilled bird's nest with apricots. Our Muslim friends may want to indulge in some hearty Indonesian fare at Garuda Padang ($30-112 for up to 4 persons) with beef rendang, ketupat and gado gado, as well as deep-fried mackerel with belado sauce as highlights.

From 12pm onwards on May 13, Picotin will be serving a special Mother's Day lunch menu ($55++ per person), featuring goat's cheese salad, lobster bisque, grilled salmon, roasted lamb and desserts like banoffee pie and rhubarb tart.

If your mom loves Penang cuisine, treat her to a buffet at Copthorne King's Hotel's Princess Terrace, where she can pick from dishes like double-boiled chicken with ginseng and herbal soup, assam laksa, Hokkien prawn mee soup and kueh pie tee. Available on May 4-6, 11 and 13 for $48-58. 

At Putien, you can pick from six set menus ($128-578++ for up to 10 persons), all prepared in the traditional, healthy Putien way with only one deep-fried dish per menu. Enjoy delicacies such as double-boiled duck soup with abalone and cordyceps, braised abalone with oyster mushroom and broccoli and hot yam paste with pumpkin, accompanied by "Mazu Ping An" noodles (available with every menu)—a significant Fujian dish for longevity. Available May 1-14.

Mothers dine free (with every three paying adults) at the Concorde Hotel's Spices Cafe, where they've got the Weekend Afternoon Tea Buffet (noon-4:30pm) and International Buffet Dinner (6:30-10pm) May 12-13. For $50-68++, you can savor dishes such as Pacific clam marinated in Thai sauce, fresh tiger prawns with French bean salad and four treasure soup of abalone. Mom also receives a free serving of whole baby abalone with sea cucumber, fish maw and mushroom at dinner.

Another good option is The White Rabbit's Mother's Day Brunch ($98), available from 10:30am-1pm for the early-risers and 1-3pm. Expect items like gazpacho with prawns, buttermilk waffles and bouillabaisse, as well as a spread of desserts including Baileys bread and butter pudding, and mango-passion fruit mousse.

Just want a simple brunch? Check out our list of brunch places for special occasions. Or take her out to one of Singapore's best spots for high tea.