1 . VivoCity—Gallery for Lifestyle

As one of the largest iconic retail and lifestyle destinations that offers an exciting mix of ever evolving, refreshing, and new-to-market brands and concepts, VivoCity has been voted as the best shopping mall in Singapore in the Expat Living Readers’ Choice Awards 2023. It features wide, open spaces for waterfront entertainment and relaxation, and whenever you need a short break, there is Sky Park with rooftop water feature from where you can enjoy views of Sentosa and catch a breath or two.

Timings: Open from 10 a.m.—10 p.m. daily.

Haji Lane—Boutiques Street

For an extraordinary experience of the city’s greatest boutique shopping down one of the narrowest streets in Singapore, Haji Lane, is the perfect place to be. This narrow alley is lined with cafés, yoga studios, old-school Egyptian restaurants and boutiques by up-and-coming designers. Although this is not high-street luxury, you can definitely find some good-quality gifts here.

Timings: Most of the stores in Haji Lane open around 12 noon and close by 9 pm.

Clarke Quay—Shopping for Fashionistas

Apart from the fancy waterfront restaurants, there are also a great range of fashion boutiques, independent arts and crafts shops along this breathtaking riverside place. Being home to high-end brands from across the world, Clarke Quay is one of the most frequented tourist spots in the city.

Timings: Open from 10 am—12 midnight.

IMM—Home and Clothing

Owned by CapitaLand Mall Trust, The International Merchandising Mart Mall, also known as IMM Mall, is an outlet centre in Jurong East, Singapore. You can enjoy fashion shows while shopping. IMM is now Singapore’s largest outlet mall with 100 outlet stores amongst more than 220 stores, offering 80% discount of local brands all year round, such as 6ixty8ight and Charles & Keith. Aside from the local branded stores, this is one-stop mall specializing in interior furniture, including home renewal essentials, furnishings and fittings.

Timings: Open from 10 am to 10 pm.

2 . The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of the home, is a place where delicious meals are prepared, cherished memories are made, and families are united.     1    . To ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience, it’s important to obey kitchen safety guidelines.

●    2    

Remember, an organized kitchen is not just pleasing but also crucial for safety. Avoid accidents by keeping countertops, stovetops, and floors clean. Always store knives out of children’s reach to prevent injuries. By maintaining organization in the kitchen, you create a safer environment for everyone in the household.

●Prevent burns

When handling hot cookers or touching any hot surfaces, always wear oven gloves to avoid burns. Moreover, heat oil slowly and monitor it closely to prevent it from splattering (泼洒), which can cause serious injuries.     3    , as the escaping steam can be extremely hot.   

●Handle food safely

    4    . This is crucial both before and after handling food. Additionally, it is vital to use separate cutting boards for raw meat to avoid infection. Moreover, all food should be cooked to the recommended temperatures. Only in this way can we make sure that harmful bacteria are got rid of, thus promoting food safety.

● Watch children in the kitchen

It is important to educate children about kitchen safety and make them aware of the potential risks in the kitchen. Keep them away from hot surfaces, sharp tools, and electrical appliances to prevent accidents. Encourage them to engage in safe cooking activities under the eyes of an adult to develop their interest in cooking.     5    .

3 . Since living in China, I’d always heard that Sichuan province had the spiciest cuisine. I finally made my way to Chengdu to satisfy my eagerness.

With 45% of its local people aged between 14 and 45, making it one of China’s most youthful places, it boasted an energetic atmosphere dotted with trendy shops, cafes, and live music. People wandered leisurely along the streets, enjoying the free time with those who don’t work overtime.

As the sun sets, Chengdu truly comes alive. The city buzzes (充斥着) with countless bars and music venues. I chose a bar to hear myself think. My waiter brought me a cocktail with Sichuan peppers and I asked where I could taste the most special hotpot. She suggested Long Sen Yuan Hotpot. I made a reservation. Afterwards, I took a walk along the amazing Jinjiang River. I’m not a person for solo walks typically, but I was curious about the Jiuyan Bridge, the highlight of the area, which bears the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The next day, I went to Long Sen Yuan. Having ordered some food, I asked for the spicy broth(火锅锅底) and learned I could choose from three levels of spiciness. I ordered the spiciest broth available. The waiter made eye contact to warn about how spicy it was. “Bring it on,” I challenged. The hotpot lived up to its reputation. I found the first bite bearable. However, any experienced spicy food expert will tell you that spice builds as you eat, and I had a lot of broth to get through. By the end of the meal, I was sweating all over. The experience was perfect, and I would highly recommend it, I even shot a selfie with the waiter as a memory of my spicy adventure.

China, with a history stretching back thousands of years, has a rich and diverse traditional culture. This culture,    1     is passed down through generations, is seen in     2     (difference) aspects of Chinese life.

One typical example is the art of calligraphy,    3     (consider) as a national treasure. The beauty of Chinese calligraphy     4     (reflect) the harmony of nature and the universe. Another significant aspect is traditional Chinese medicine, and it aims     5     (balance) the body’s vital energy.

Festivals also play     6     crucial role. The Spring Festival, the most important of all, marks the     7     (begin) of a new year and is celebrated with family reunions, fireworks, and delicious food. The Dragon Boat Festival, the fifth day of the fifth lunar month,    8     (special) commemorates(纪念) the ancient poet Qu Yuan.

Additionally, Chinese music and dance, traditional     9     (instrument) like the guqin and the drum, are important parts in Chinese culture. It is classical literature that provides insights into ancient Chinese thought and values.

In conclusion, Chinese traditional culture serves     10     a bridge to the past, connecting generations and developing a sense of national pride.