Around the World in Singapore

You’re someone who travels a lot and lives for new experiences, so when it comes to a date, a typical movie is just not all that exciting enough. Here are some interesting, off-the-beaten places to hit up and things to do in Singapore that would turn a date with that special someone into a night of fun, fresh discoveries.

By Low Pei Hua

Dance the Spanish flamenco
Steeped in beauty and folklore, the Spanish flamenco is an iconic artform of Andalusia in Spain that continues to captivate and inspire many all over the world today. Flamenco Sin Fronteras is one place where you can unleash the dancer in you and get your blood pumping to the rhythm of passion – the school holds classes for dancers of all levels. Or, for a scintillating night out with that special someone, check out one of the company’s many dance productions, which typically feature guest singers, guitarists and artistes from all over the world. Rub shoulders with international talents and let this fiery dance sweep you off your feet!

Address: 1 Lorong 24A Geylang

Watch French films

If you love a good movie but are tired of the usual Hollywood fare, then try some French cinema at Alliance Française . The French institute’s Cine-Club screens a range of French flicks on Tuesdays, with each movie centred on a theme of the month. From drama to documentary and romantic comedy, there’s sure to be something that will appeal to the both of you. It’s also a great chance to huddle together for a cinematic treat! And if your French is only so-so, rest easy as these films are subtitled in English.

Address: 1 Sarkies Road

Celebrate Western opera
Do the names of composers like Verdi, Mozart and Strauss sound like music to your ears? If the answer’s yes, then the Singapore Lyric Opera (SLO) is right up your alley. The performing arts company stages a variety of Western operas not commonly performed in Asia, including Verdi’s Aida and Puccini’s Turandot. Look out for upcoming productions by following the SLO’s social media channels, or gather a friend and your picnic basket for its annual Opera in the Park at the Botanic Gardens. And if performing is more your thing, then audition to join this company of passionate performers. Whichever your preference, having the same taste in music means you’ll never run out of things to talk about!

Events are held at various locations.

Learn a foreign language
If visiting far-off places for exotic escapades is on your bucket list, adding another language to your list can really come in handy! Whether it’s Japanese, German or Italian, picking up a new language is one of the best ways to get to know a whole new culture. Not sure which language to choose? Try Lingo School of Knowledge , which offers everything from Korean and Spanish to slightly more obscure tongues like Hebrew and Russian. Learning a foreign language isn’t going to be easy, but it will be more fun and encouraging if you rope in a partner to study with! You can support each other during lessons, be tongue-tied together and have fun giggling over each other’s silly mistakes.

Address: 87 Beach Road, #03-01 Chye Sing Building

Savour Danish food
You don’t have to brave the Scandinavian cold to get your fill of Danish food. At Smør , you can tuck into delicacies like smørrebrød. These open-faced sandwiches are not only appetising and perfectly Instagrammable, but also light, nutritious and incredibly versatile – with a range of toppings including shrimp and egg, blue cheese and pear or roast beef and onions. If you can’t make up your mind about what toppings to have, bring along your favourite foodie so you can share them all!

Address: 1 Raffles Place