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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

Skiing in Asia WHERE TO GO AND HOW TO PREPARE

THE NEXT FRONTIER SICHUAN, CHINA'S WILD SOUTHWEST

LOW-WASTE LIVING IN SINGAPORE

PRACTICAL TIPS TO REDUCE HOUSEHOLD WASTE

HARNESSING THE POWER OF NATURE

HOW GETTING OUTSIDE CAN HELP WITH STRESS

Living your best life everyday at Sentosa Cove No Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty for U.S. and Select Nationals+

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3 stops to Shenton Way and 4 stops to Marina Bay Financial District from Harbourfront MRT station on the Circle Line Exciting lifestyle offerings under the Greater Sentosa Master Plan Waterfront dining and grocery runs at Quayside Isle next door Set sail from home with private yacht berths available* Actual View

Luxurious 3- and 4-bedroom apartments and penthouses, including ground floor units with private spa pools for sale at The Residences at W Singapore Sentosa Cove: #01-16, #02-21, #03-11, #04-23, #06-09, and more

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While reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this advertisement, which has been prepared to interest you in viewing any one or more of the units being put up for sale by Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd., neither Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. nor its agents assume any responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions. The statements, information and depictions in this advertisement are not to be relied upon as statements or representations of fact, offers or warranties (whether expressly or impliedly) by Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. or its agents and they are not intended to form any part of the contract for the sale of the units. Visual representations such as renderings, illustrations, pictures and drawings are artists’ impressions only and photographs are only decor suggestions and cannot be regarded as representations of fact. All units are sold on an “as is where is” basis in its actual state and condition as regards repair, access, services and in all other respects. All materials, furniture, fittings, equipment, finishes, installations and appliances (if any) which are provided in the respective units are sold together with the units (unless otherwise stated by signage in the unit or verbally communicated), on an “as is, where is” basis in their actual state and condition, without any guarantee or warranty (whether expressed or implied) as to the state, repair, quality, purpose or fitness for use whatsoever and in all other respects. Purchasers will be deemed to have inspected the purchased unit and its contents on or before the grant of the Option To Purchase and to have notice of its actual state and condition. Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. shall not be held responsible or liable for any inaccuracy in any information or plan contained in this advertisement and you are advised to conduct your own verification. All plans are not to scale and all areas and measurements stated in the advertisement are approximate only. A title search on any specific unit will show the actual area of the unit. The Option To Purchase embodies all the terms and conditions between Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. and the purchaser and supersedes and cancels in all respects all previous representations, warranties, promises, inducements or statements of intention, whether written or oral made by Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. and/or its agents which are not embodied in the Option To Purchase. This is part of an advertisement for the sale of units owned by Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. and Cityview Place Holdings Pte. Ltd. does not have any ownership rights to the ‘W’ brand name. +Nationals and permanent residents of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, and nationals of the United States of America are exempt from additional buyer’s stamp duty for foreigners. Exemption is only applicable for the first residential property purchase in Singapore. *Terms and conditions apply. The information in this advertisement is accurate at the time of printing.

WHO WE ARE EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief: Susan Williams communications@aasingapore.com Publishing Editor: Tara Strunk generalmanager@aasingapore.com As we move into the final months of the year, this September–October issue celebrates The Great Outdoors and the many ways that spending time outside can enrich our lives. Whether it is an ambitious adventure or a simple walk in the fresh air, being outdoors has a unique ability to restore perspective, reduce stress, and help us feel more connected to the world around us.

LAYOUT Graphic Designer: Susan Williams graphics@aasingapore.com

Two of this issue’s stories explore skiing in Asia, highlighting destinations that make winter sports more accessible from Singapore than many people realize. The other article offers practical guidance for anyone curious about experiencing the mountains and snow for the first time—or returning to the slopes after a long break.

COLUMNISTS Andrea McKenna Brankin, Marc Servos

We also venture into two extraordinary natural landscapes. In Borneo, ancient rainforests, diverse wildlife, and remote wilderness areas showcase the incredible biodiversity of Southeast Asia. Our feature on southwest China reveals dramatic scenery shaped by mountains, rivers, and centuries of cultural history, reminding us that some of the world’s most memorable outdoor experiences are found in places that encourage us to slow down and look more closely.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS President: Michelle Reeb

The outdoors theme extends beyond travel. Our article on low-waste living considers how everyday habits can reduce our environmental footprint through thoughtful choices about paper, plastic, food, and clothing waste. Caring for the places we enjoy begins with the decisions we make at home. Finally, we examine the connection between time outdoors and stress reduction. Research increasingly shows that nature—even in small doses—can have a measurable impact on mental well-being. A park, a hiking trail, a beach, or a quiet green space can all provide an opportunity to step away from constant demands and recharge. We hope this issue encourages you to open the door, spend more time outdoors, and discover the physical and mental benefits of reconnecting with the great outdoors.

ADVERTISING Advertising Manager: Thila Chandra thila@aasingapore.com

CONTRIBUTORS Laura Gatsos, Claire Graham, Richard Hartung, Kristin Lim, Minja Lin, Philipos Mattios, Melinda Murphy, Kay Yin

Vice President: Christopher Ellis Treasurer: Olive Ngah Secretary: Heidi Hughes Directors-at-Large: Neetu Mirchandani, Daniel Moss, Tianna Nguyen, Colton Payne, Carlos Ruano, Carmen Schwender AmCham: Dr. Hsien-Hsien Lei AWA: Paige Jenkinson SAFL: Stacy Ohrt-Billingslea SAS: Chris Raymaakers The American Club: Dan Gewirtz Non-Voting Members US Embassy: Lisa Liao US Navy COMLOG WESTPAC: RDML Todd "Chimi" Cimicata AAS: Tara Strunk PUBLISHER – AMERICAN ASSOCIATION

American Association of Singapore (AAS) is a professional, not-forprofit organization established to enhance the well-being and living experience of Americans residing in Singapore and to promote relationships, both business and social, between Americans and those from different cultures and nationalities. 20 Anson Rd, Level 6, Singapore 079912 admin@aasingapore.com • www.aasingapore.com Living In Singapore magazine will be released five times per year, with the purpose of enhancing the expatriate experience in Singapore.

SUBSCRIPTION

A subscription to Living in Singapore is complementary with an AAS membership. AAS annual family membership is $150.

Editor-in-Chief

To join, visit aasingapore.com and have Living in Singapore magazine delivered to your inbox. Reproduction in any manner, in English or any other language, is prohibited without written permission. Living in Singapore welcomes all contributions of volunteer time or written material. Living in Singapore is printed by Times Printers (TP), 18 Tuas Avenue 5, Singapore 639342, License L009/06/2026. Living in Singapore magazine Print Permit No. MDDI (P) 060/04/2026.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS

06. COMMUNITY NEWS

28. WHY BEING OUTSIDE WORKS

Check out what we've been up to and what's coming up

A practical look at stress, burnout, and mental reset

12. 90 ACTS OF CHARITY

31. FIRST-TIMER'S GUIDE TO SKIING

See what our community has been doing to give back

Gear, lessons, and what to expect

14. SCOUTING

35. INTO THE WILD HEART OF BORNEO

Find out what Scouts have been doing lately

Learn about this nearby destination

16. HEADSPACE

38. LOW-WASTE LIVING IN SINGAPORE

Raves and women's mental health

Practical tips on how to reduce your footprint

18. LIVING SINGAPORE STORIES

42. THE NEXT FRONTIER

How we celebrated the Bicentennial in Singapore

Learn about Sichuan, China's Wild Southwest

20. ASIA'S SKI SCENE Learn about where to go skiing in the region

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT BY MICHELLE REEB There is something about August and September in Singapore that makes me want to hit the ground running. For many of us, summer means time away—visiting family and friends and returning to places that still feel like home. Then suddenly, it is time to pack up, say goodbye, and come back to Singapore. The moment you land, life starts at full speed. For families with children, the new school year brings its own chaos. There are uniforms to sort, supplies to buy, schedules to rebuild, and early mornings to adjust to again. We want everything to go smoothly for our children, which can make an already busy time feel even more intense. For those who are new to Singapore, the experience can be just as overwhelming. Moving to a new country means figuring out daily life while trying to build a new one. Even simple tasks take extra effort when everything is unfamiliar. This is exactly why the American Association of Singapore exists. AAS brings people together and gives newcomers a community from the moment they arrive. We are a place to make friends, find connections, ask questions, and become part of life in Singapore. For those who have been here longer, we have an equally significant role: welcoming those just beginning their Singapore experience. Come to an AAS event. Bring someone new. Introduce yourself to a face you do not recognize. This is how we turn an association into a community. So, welcome back to those returning, and a very warm welcome to those who have just arrived. We are glad you are here, and we hope AAS becomes part of what makes Singapore feel like home. Warm regards, Michelle González Reeb President, American Association of Singapore

AAS STRATEGIC PARTNERS PATRIOT PARTNERS

STARS & STRIPES PARTNER

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

AMERICAN COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORY

MEMBER BENEFITS AAS paid members enjoy discounts at a range of local businesses. Check out our website for more details. AAS members, be sure to log in to receive discount codes on the "Your AAS Membership Card" page.

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

UPCOMING EVENTS AAS Running Club @ Fullerton Sep 6, 9:30 – 11:00 AM

Newbie Night @ Lawry's Sep 17, 6:30 PM

Lady Liber'tinis Sep 24, 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Navigating Singapore's Property Market Sep 9, 7:00 PM

Coffee Fridays - Meet I Connect I Chat Sep 18, 8:00 – 10:00 AM

Fall Fest Oct 4, 4:00 – 7:30 PM

AAS Running Club @ MacRitchie Sep 13, 9:30 – 11:00 AM

AAS Running Club @ Fullerton Sep 20, 9:30 – 11:00 AM

Freelancers, Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners Coffee Sep 17, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

How to Make Your Baby a Millionaire Sep 23, 7:00 PM

SAVE THE DATE! Thanksgiving Celebration Nov 15 Toys for Tots Dec 2

What a night! Thank you to everyone who joined us for our annual Fourth of July Celebration and helped make this year’s 250th birthday bash one to remember!

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

There was so much to celebrate, and it was wonderful to see everyone enjoying the food, drinks, games, contests, and music. From the spirited watermelon-eating competition to the fantastic sounds of New Stream Brass Band, the evening was filled with fun from start to finish. And, of course, we loved seeing so many creative red, white, and blue looks throughout the crowd! A special congratulations to all of our contest winners, and thank you to everyone who jumped in and participated. Your enthusiasm and good-natured spirit are a big part of what makes this celebration so special year after year. We were thrilled to welcome everyone to The American Club, our event’s title sponsor. We are incredibly grateful for their generous support, as well as that of our other sponsors and prize donors. A big thank you to our photo booth sponsor, Dream Station, and our activity sponsors, Allied, Amped, City Developments Limited, Elite Baseball Academy, Raffles Medical Group, and United Airlines. Your support helped make our 250th birthday celebration even more memorable!

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

We also extend our appreciation to the US Navy Color Guard for opening our formal ceremonies and helping us mark the occasion in such a meaningful way. And finally, we want to give a tremendous shout-out to our amazing army of volunteers. So much goes on behind the scenes to bring an event like this to life, and we truly could not do it without you. We are especially grateful for the familiar faces of our long-time members and our wonderful American sister organizations, including the American Dragons, Girl Scouts, and The Navy League, who continue to turn up year after year to lend a hand. Thank you all for celebrating with us and for making this 250th birthday bash such a fantastic night. We can’t wait to do it all again next year! For more photos of the event, visit fourth-of-july-4.aasingapore.com.

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

Thank you! Host

Medical Support

Logistics Partner

Cocktails Sponsors

Photo booth Sponsor

Community Sponsors

Activity Sponsors

Prize Sponsors

Annual Partners Patriot Partners

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

Stars & Stripes Partner

Community Partners

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

A COMMUNITY OF GIVING:

HIGHLIGHTING RECENT ACTS BY OUR MEMBERS THE RAINBOW CENTRE, ADMIRAL HILL SCHOOL

PROJECT HOMEWORKS Several AAS volunteers visited an apartment to support a vulnerable family through a meaningful decluttering initiative. The team worked side by side tirelessly, making significant progress and helping create a safer, more comfortable living space for the family.

NPARKS ONEMILLIONTREES MOVEMENT AAS participated in a tree-planting near the Serangoon North Avenue HDBs, teaming up with a few other crews for the NParks OneMillionTrees Movement. After a quick planting crash course and with supplies provided by NParks, they got their hands dirty— digging, planting, and helping add to the beauty of the Garden City.

An Eagle Scout's project, "Sensory Playground at Rainbow Centre," was carried out in order to improve the play environment for children with diverse sensory needs. The project included building two sensory boards and two box forts to provide a more engaging, enjoyable, and comfortable play experience.

PROJECT AWARENESS For the third year following Closing Ceremonies, USA Girl Scouts from levels Daisies to Cadettes worked with Project Awareness to bring joy to those living in HDBs. The girls delivered more than 50 bags filled with healthy snacks, each made with love. The girls really enjoyed interacting with residents in Woodlands.

BUILDING BRIDGES ACROSS GENERATIONS This summer, AAS launched a pilot volunteer program with St. Hilda’s Community Centre, bringing seniors and volunteers together through arts and crafts and bingo. The program fostered connection, companionship, and engagement while helping reduce social isolation. Special thanks to Emma, Avery, Trevor, and Tara for sharing their time and compassion to make the program a success.

Share your acts of kindness with us at www.aasingapore.com/90-acts 12

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

What I Learned Becoming an Eagle Scout By Philipos Mattios, Troop 10

Scouting has been a major part of my life, helping me develop leadership, teamwork, and social skills. From camping trips and outdoor adventures to community service projects, every experience has taught me valuable lessons. Like when I first joined scouting and would look forward every year to the Rain Gutter Regatta, or when I went camping in new islands around Singapore that I had never visited before. Or my favorite: when I went to explore countries I had never been to, like Nepal and Mongolia. I did my Eagle Scout project at an organization in Singapore called Acres Foundation. It was the culmination of everything I learned throughout my Scouting journey. When I first joined Scouts, I was excited but also nervous about the opportunities to explore the outdoors and to challenge myself, as I had never done either before. But over the years, as I developed and pushed through, I learned important skills such as problem-solving, communication, and leadership. Through camps, hikes, and troop activities, I built friendships and gained confidence that would help me take on greater responsibilities. For my Eagle Scout project, I partnered with Acres Foundation, an organization dedicated to caring for rescued animals, to support an event they were holding. My goal was to organize a service project that would make a meaningful contribution while also bringing other Scouts together to support a worthwhile cause. Planning the project required months of preparation, including coordinating with the organization, developing a work plan, recruiting volunteers, and ensuring everything would run smoothly on the day of the project. One of the most rewarding parts of the experience was leading a team of Scouts, watching everyone work together toward a common goal, which showed me the power of teamwork and service. We also faced some challenges on the project day, which I, as the leader, had to find ways to adjust and adapt. Since my project was outdoors, I had to make quick decisions when it began raining, thinking about who could work where. Based on capabilities and skill sets, I assigned different Scouts to different jobs: some worked with cleaning materials, others carried the heavy tiles outside, and

some shoveled. As the project leader, I learned that leadership is not simply about directing others but about supporting, motivating, and working alongside them. Beyond earning the rank of Eagle Scout, this project reminded me why Scouting is so important. Scouting encourages young people to step outside their comfort zones, develop practical skills, and make a positive impact on their communities. Through my experiences, I have learned that even small acts of service can create meaningful change when people work together. For anyone considering joining Scouts, I would strongly encourage them to do so. The adventures, friendships, and lessons learned through Scouting can shape a person for life and provide opportunities to make a real difference in the world, just as they did for me.

The Surprise of Leading a Girl Scout Troop By Melinda Murphy

Truth is, I wasn’t sure how I'd find time to be a Girl Scout leader when I signed up. I had a full-time job and two little kids, a daughter age five and a son age three. I was busy. The kind of hair-on-fire, crossedeyed, no-sleep-ever, too-busy-to-pee busy. But I had been a Girl Scout when I was a little girl, and I thought it would be a great thing to do with my daughter. I had no idea what I was getting into when I volunteered to lead a troop. Boy was I in for some surprises! Surprise #1 I knew there’d be those moments when you’d giggle until your belly hurt inside your tent. Or when you’re bursting with pride for doing something you didn’t think you could do. Or when you were happy to show

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

off your new skill to your friend. I just thought all of that would be my daughter’s experiences… and they were. She did all of that - but so did I! I never expected to try – and love – so many new things as an adult. Our troop took a lot of field trips, one every other Saturday, more or less, for 13 years. That’s a lot of experiences! Every troop has its own rhythm and pace, and most aren’t that crazy. But for me, it was easier to find an expert to teach a badge or new skill than to try to sort it myself. And so our troop experienced just about everything Singapore had to offer. Our girls even raised funds and took two trips together, one to Laos where we planted rice and one to Sumatra to see the orangutans, both magical experiences on every level.

Surprise #3 I am still a bit stunned by how much I came to love the girls in my troop. I mean, I adore these girls. What an honor to watch them grow up from giggly, gap-toothed little girls into confident, strong leaders. I watched them try new things, push themselves to accomplish tasks they didn’t think they could, form true, deep friendships, and so much more. We had girls come and go over the years. Some moved. Some found other passions. But in the end, we had nine girls go to the end with Troop 82. That’s pretty amazing at an age when there are so many other things competing for their time. The fact they chose to spend their Saturday mornings with me – some for 13 years – is a great honor.

Girl Scouting is a leadership training program for girls of all ages, including leaders. I personally grew in ways I never imagined. I was a trained journalist, not a leader. Through Girl Scouts, I organized events, served as the Chair here in Singapore, taught leaders in other countries, and even sat on an international council. My volunteer experience as a Girl Scout taught me many new skills which eventually led to a career I adored as a community leader.

Surprise #2: Friendships There’s a Girl Scout song, “Make New Friends.” Yes, my daughter made a lot of special friends, but so did I. My co-leaders became some of the best friends I’ve ever had – ever. After all, we were doing all that fun, crazy stuff together! In my 13 years as a leader, I had five co-leaders. I usually had one co-leader, sometimes two, depending on the year. Each left only when they moved out of Singapore or when their daughter graduated from high school. One co-leader, Teresa, stuck by my side for ten years. The stories we have together! Two ladies were British, one was American, one was Singaporean, and Teresa was Chinese. Most had no experience with Girl Scouts. We all figured it out together, and the experiences we’ve shared have really bonded us in hard-toexplain ways. I really love these women! But it wasn’t just my co-leaders who came to mean a lot to me. It was the other leaders and volunteers, too. And Troop 82 was blessed with the most amazing troop families. My circle of friends really broadened as I found like-minded men and women.

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

Not Surprising I knew Girl Scouting would be a good bonding experience for my daughter, Maisie, and me. I learned more about her on Saturday mornings than I did all week. I saw her interact with others, tackle new problems, try new things. We camped together, crafted together, roasted s’mores together, ran events together. I beamed with pride when she got her Silver Award. Now we look at all the badges and patches on her vests and talk about what we did – together. We are very close, and I really think a big part of that is because of Girl Scouting. I had no idea when I said I’d lead Troop 82 that I’d do it for 13 years. Seriously. I thought it would be a two-year gig and I’d be done. I’m so glad the troop was able to stay together the whole way through. Leading was one of the most magical experiences of my life. I bleed green, as they say. I hope when the time comes, my daughter raises her hand and says she’ll lead a troop, too, so the magic can continue. If you’re reading this, you should raise your hand. Seriously. Give leading a try. You don’t have to be as involved as I was. You can lead at whatever pace fits you… just do it. You’ll love it in ways that just might surprise you. As for me, I need to figure out what to do with my Saturday mornings now!

Melinda Murphy is the immediate past General Manager of AAS. She led USA Girl Scouts Overseas Troop 82 for 13 years from Daisies through Ambassadors.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

HEAD SPACE By Andrea McKenna Brankin

RAVES FOR WOMEN BOOST MENTAL HEALTH For a long time, dance floors and rave culture were dismissed as just nightlife or escapism. But more women are now reclaiming rave dancing as something deeper: A way to support mental health, reduce loneliness, reconnect with themselves, and feel emotionally alive again. From warehouse raves to early-bird dance parties that end before midnight, women are finding healing in music, movement, and community. Researchers in the UK are starting to pay attention to the emotional and psychological benefits of dancing in social environments. Studies from universities including University College London, the University of Oxford, the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Leeds suggest that social dancing can improve mood, increase feelings of belonging, reduce stress, and strengthen social connection. For many women, especially those juggling careers, caregiving, relationships, anxiety, or burnout, dancing creates a rare space where they can stop overthinking and simply exist in the moment. Loud music, synchronized movement, flashing lights, and collective energy can feel surprisingly therapeutic. On a dance floor, nobody expects perfection. You do not need to explain yourself. You just move. Rave on. That feeling of connection matters more than people realize. Researchers at the University of Oxford found that dancing in synchrony with others increases feelings of social bonding and may even trigger endorphin release, helping people feel closer and more emotionally connected. Another review from University College London highlighted growing evidence that social dance may help support people experiencing depression and mood disorders by combining movement, music, and human connection. Women are also changing what rave culture looks like. It is no longer only about staying out until 5 am. Even here in Singapore, early-bird dance parties and sober-curious

events are becoming more popular, especially among women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. These daytime and early evening dance events focus less on rave-style excess and more on joy, freedom, movement, and community. Research highlighted by psychologists at the University of Leeds found that many midlife women described raving as emotionally uplifting, spiritual, and stress-relieving. Women reported that dancing helped them reconnect with themselves and temporarily escape the pressure of everyday life. There is also something powerful about being surrounded by people who share the same beat, the same energy, and the same release. In the yoga and sound healing world, this is called entrainment. In a world where so many interactions happen through screens, dance floors offer real-life connection. Eye contact. Smiles. Movement. Shared emotion. Community. And maybe that is why so many women are turning to dance spaces when they feel isolated or emotionally overwhelmed. Because when you step into a room full of people dancing together, you realize something important: you’re not alone. That message matters. Mental health struggles can feel incredibly isolating, especially for women who are used to carrying responsibilities for everyone else. Dancing creates a break from that emotional weight. Even for a few hours, women can reconnect with their bodies instead of just their stress.

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh also found that group dance environments helped reduce anxiety and loneliness while increasing selfesteem and group bonding. The emotional benefits were not only physical. Participants described feeling understood, included, and emotionally supported. Of course, dancing is not a replacement for therapy, medication, or professional mental health support when needed. But it can absolutely become part of a healthy emotional toolkit. Movement, music, friendship, and shared joy all help regulate the nervous system and reduce stress. Sometimes healing does not happen in silence. Sometimes it happens under disco lights, surrounded by strangers singing the same song. Think "Wonderwall" by Oasis. And no matter your age, there is always time to dance, dance, dance in a social environment where joy, connection, and community remind you that life can still feel good. Looking for a ladies-only dance party? Check out GirlyBirds Dance Party, holding dance parties at reasonable hours! The next event is coming up on September 18. Find them on IG @girlybirdsdanceparty, or scan the QR code.

LIVING SINGAPORE STORIES Connecting past and present By Marc Servos

1976, AMERICA’S BICENTENNIAL

(INCLUDING HOW AMERICANS IN SINGAPORE CELEBRATED) This year, 2026, marks the Semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding. As Americans celebrate under the banner of "America250," some of us, including myself, remember the iconic 1976 US Bicentennial, also known by the cultural trope “Spirit of ‘76,” the monumental 200th birthday bash 50 years ago that evokes fond memories from our earlier lives. Prior to this milestone, run-ups had been underway. Milestone observances prior to the Bicentennial had occurred. America’s 50th birthday on July 4, 1826, is known to be the date of the deaths of Declaration of Independence signers and Presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Observances of both the Centennial in 1876 and the Sesqui-Centennial in 1926 were centered on activities at International Exhibitions in Philadelphia. Initial plans for the Bicentennial, kicking off on July 4, 1966, focused on a single-city exposition in either Philadelphia or Boston. But Congress instead created an administration to coordinate decentralized, locally sponsored celebrations. Given that the nation was recovering from the Vietnam War and facing other challenges, a grand cultural reset would give Americans pride and restore traditional American values. Television reflected the “Spirit of ‘76.” CBS aired the Bicentennial Minutes nightly from July 4, 1974, until December 31, 1976. These minute-long segments were usually narrated by a CBS figure covering an event that had occurred exactly 200 years prior to their broadcast. Saturday mornings featured America Rock, a Schoolhouse Rock! production that aired educational segments on US history. Also, The US of Archie, a spin-off of the Archie comics franchise, depicted historical events that involved identical “ancestors” of the Archie gang. With the country awash in the "Spirit of ’76," millions watched the historic Operation Sail, which brought a majestic fleet of tall ships from around the world, along with the International Naval Review, into New York Harbor, where it was reviewed by President Gerald Ford. The American Freedom Train traveled across all 48 contiguous states from April 1975 to December 1976, carrying precious artifacts. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip even made a state visit as part of these celebrations.

SPIRIT OF ‘76 IN THE LION CITY Local commemoration was kicked off in early 1976 by the American Association of Singapore with the annual George Washington Ball at the ShangriLa Hotel, and the guest of honor was Singapore President Dr. Benjamin Sheares. Later, as July approached, a special collector’s issue of the Singapore American newspaper was published.

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Independence Day was celebrated at the previous Singapore American School campus on Kings Road, complete with a "Spirit of '76" theme. Ceremonies included US Ambassador John Holdridge cutting one of three giant cakes with a sword. The evening concluded with a rare, specially permitted fireworks display over the campus. In November, the Broadway musical 1776 was staged at the Victoria Theatre by the National Theatre Trust in conjunction with AAS. This involved a cast of 30 from the American community and staff of the US Embassy in Singapore re-enacting events leading to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Also worth noting is that the AAS coordinated with a local publisher, Bicentennial, and the National Library Board to publish History of American Liberty, 1776-1976: Bicentennial Commemorative Issue. It is available at the National Library and can be reserved for a small fee. And the initial Living in Singapore Reference Guide was published that year as well. Being that I was in my “tweens,” the mentioned observances in the US — a fraction of the overall celebration — are fairly clear in my memories. My family spent July 4, 1976, at Lake Wawasee in northern Indiana, a regular weekend getaway with our cabin sailboat, which we used when not taking it to the Great Lakes. I watched events from all over the country live on the portable black-andwhite TV plugged into the boat cabin’s cigarette lighter (which was used only as a power source). What will likely be called the Tricentennial will occur in 2076 and hopefully be observed with similar, if not greater, grandeur. I won't be around, but most of the younger readers will be. For those who will partake in those celebrations, remember the 2026 commemorations, and consider researching the 1976 events.

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Asia’s Ski Scene:

Japan, China, or Korea? By Kay Yin (@thisiskaykhy)

Living in Singapore, winter is something we have to find. Each year, skiers head north, sometimes very far north, in search of the cold, white landscape that feels almost unreal after months of tropical heat. It is exciting for a week or two, even if most of us would not volunteer to live with it for half the year. Asia’s ski map has changed quickly, and there is now much more choice than there used to be. Japan still leads for powder, atmosphere and the overall holiday experience. China has built a ski industry on an entirely different scale, while Korea offers compact resorts, straightforward logistics and a gentler starting point for beginners. So the real question is not simply where to ski in Asia, but what kind of ski holiday you are looking for.

JAPAN: STILL THE MAIN EVENT

Japan is still the country most skiers talk about first, and the snow is the main reason. “Japow,” the shorthand for Japan’s famously light powder, has taken on almost mythical status among skiers and snowboarders. For years, Australians and travelers from around Asia have made up much of the overseas crowd. More recently, North American skiers have also been traveling farther in

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search of dependable powder. No winter is guaranteed, but if you choose the right time, Japan usually delivers. And the snow is only part of the appeal. Few things feel better than skiing all day, sinking into an onsen and then sitting down to ramen, sushi, or something hot from a small local kitchen. Add the scenery, the hospitality, and the towns themselves, and the trip still feels worthwhile even when not everyone wants to ski every day. The choice is enormous. Across Japan’s hundreds of resorts, you can stay in a family-run lodge, a practical apartment, or a private villa with its own onsen, chef, and concierge.

NISEKO: JAPAN’S INTERNATIONAL CROWN JEWEL For many visitors, Niseko is the first name that comes to mind. Its snowfall begins with cold seasonal air crossing the Sea of Japan, collecting moisture and releasing it over Hokkaido as unusually light, dry snow. The mountains are not as vast as those in the Alps or North America, but Niseko offers one of Japan’s most rounded international ski holidays, with plenty happening once the lifts close. Located in Hokkaido, Niseko is Japan’s most international ski destination. It is polished, relatively easy to navigate,

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well prepared for overseas visitors. English is widely spoken, lessons are easy to organize, and the choice of accommodation, dining, and services is extensive. Niseko United comprises four ski areas on a single mountain: Grand Hirafu, Hanazono, Niseko Village, and Annupuri. Grand Hirafu is the liveliest and most developed of the four. It has the biggest concentration of restaurants, bars, rental shops, and ski schools, as well as the largest overseas crowd during Christmas and Chinese New Year. Accommodations range from mid-range lodges and condominiums to full-service hotels and private villas. Hanazono feels newer and more polished, with modern facilities that appeal to families and travelers who prefer a resort-style stay. Niseko Village is similarly self-contained, with larger hotels and convenient access to the slopes. Annupuri is quieter and suits visitors hoping to avoid some of Hirafu’s bustle.

It has also become noticeably more international, with an expanding collection of cafés, restaurants, and bars. The practical difference is that Hakuba’s ski areas are spread across the valley and are mostly separate. Niseko’s four areas share one mountain, whereas Hakuba demands more thought about where to stay and how to move between resorts. For a more traditional setting, Nozawa Onsen is hard to beat. Skiing sits alongside an old hot-spring village of narrow streets, traditional inns, and public bathhouses. Foreign visitors are no longer unusual, but the town still feels distinctly Japanese. Rooms over the busiest periods can disappear early.

Food is another reason Niseko works so well as a holiday destination. Choices range from ramen shops, bakeries, and izakayas, to international restaurants and serious fine dining. The après-ski scene is also livelier than in most Japanese ski towns, with enough bars to make a night of bar-hopping an activity in itself. Non-skiers can easily fill their days with snowshoeing, sledding, snow parks and onsen visits. The downside is the price. Niseko is no longer the inexpensive ski escape it once was. Peak-period rooms can be extremely costly, and the most popular restaurants often need to be reserved well in advance of the trip. Timing matters too. Lifts may begin running in late November or early December, but a mid-December booking still carries some risk. Powder is usually more dependable from late December through February. In recent seasons, Grand Hirafu and Annupuri have continued into early May, when the snow is softer, the weather is warmer, and the crowds are thinner.

HOKKAIDO BEYOND NISEKO Most of the international attention goes to Niseko, but Hokkaido has several other excellent choices. Rusutsu is close enough to pair with Niseko, although the mood is quite different. It is more self-contained and less concerned with restaurants or nightlife. Skiers tend to come for the varied terrain, tree runs, and quieter slopes. Furano is another appealing alternative. Its long, groomed runs sit beside a town that still feels more recognizably Japanese. It suits travelers who want strong skiing without being surrounded by quite so much of an international resort bubble. Families who want everything organized in one place may prefer Club Med Tomamu, Kiroro, or Sahoro. The packages are not inexpensive, but having meals, lessons, children’s programs, and entertainment handled together can make family travel much easier. Another possibility is to base yourself in Sapporo and ski from the city. Sapporo Teine and Sapporo Kokusai are close enough for day trips, which works well when some people want to ski while others would rather shop, eat, and explore.

HONSHU: BIGGER MOUNTAINS AND MORE JAPANESE CHARACTER Honshu, Japan’s main island, offers a different kind of ski holiday. Hakuba Valley is one of the best-known ski regions outside Hokkaido. Beneath the Northern Japan Alps, it brings together ten resorts, including Happo-One, and hosted events during the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics. The valley works for a broad mix of skiers, from families and beginners to those seeking steeper, more challenging terrain.

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Tsugaike Kogen, Hakuba, and Nagano, Japan

Shiga Kogen and Myoko Kogen offer further choices. Shiga Kogen is one of Japan’s largest ski regions, while Myoko is known for deep snowfall and resorts such as Akakura Kanko. Both can feel less polished and more local, which is exactly the attraction. Farther north, Zao Onsen is known for its frost-covered fir trees, or “juhyo," which turn the upper mountain into a strange and beautiful winter forest. That range is Japan’s greatest advantage. Niseko may be the famous name, but travelers willing to look beyond it can find quieter, more local and often more affordable ski holidays.

CHINA: THE NEW SKI FRONTIER China offers a very different kind of ski trip.

Most of the industry is relatively young, with many resorts built or substantially upgraded over the past decade. Preparations for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics brought new investment in lifts, hotels, rail connections, and snowmaking, and gave winter sports a much higher profile across the country. For travelers entering through Beijing, Chongli is the easiest major ski region to reach. High-speed rail has considerably shortened the journey, and the area now has several sizeable resorts. Wanlong tends to attract stronger skiers and is known for its groomed runs. Thaiwoo has a purpose-built European-style village of hotels, restaurants and cafés. Genting hosted Olympic freestyle skiing and snowboarding events, while Fulong is close to Chongli town and works well for groups with mixed abilities. This is not the same experience as Japan. Chongli is appealing for its modern facilities, convenience, and prepared pistes, rather than deep natural powder or historic mountain villages. Much of the skiing centers on groomed runs supported by extensive snowmaking, and the local ski culture is still finding

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its rhythm. Beginner areas can become very busy on weekends and holidays. The atmosphere is energetic, but experienced skiers may find it less orderly than Japan. China’s ski map extends far beyond Chongli. Yabuli in Heilongjiang, Beidahu in Jilin, and Changbai Mountain offer colder conditions, larger landscapes, and accommodation ranging from straightforward local hotels to international luxury resorts. In the far west, Xinjiang has gained attention for natural snow and dramatic scenery. Altay and Koktokay appeal to more adventurous skiers, although reaching them takes more planning. China is likely to suit Mandarin-speaking travelers, repeat visitors to Japan, and anyone curious to see a ski culture still taking shape.

KOREA: EASY, COMPACT AND BEGINNER-FRIENDLY

Korea’s resorts are generally smaller and less focused on powder than Japan’s, but that does not mean they lack appeal.

Changbai Mountain, China

Several can be reached from Seoul, so skiing can be combined with shopping, food, and city life, although the larger mountain resorts involve a longer transfer. Transport packages, equipment hire, and lessons are easy to arrange, making Korea more approachable for first-time skiers. Yongpyong, in the Pyeongchang region, is one of the country’s best-known resorts and hosted alpine skiing during the 2018 Winter Olympics. High1 Resort is another sizeable option, with good facilities for families and groups of mixed ability. Korea will not replace Japan for committed powder hunters. It does, however, make sense for a first ski trip, a shorter winter break, or a family that wants skiing to be only one part of the holiday.

So where should you go?

Japan remains the most complete option, with the strongest mix of snow, food, atmosphere, and resort choice.

Yongpyeong Resort, Korea

China feels newer and more adventurous, especially for travelers comfortable with the language and logistics. Korea is the easiest place to begin, or to combine a few days on the slopes with a city break. The best choice depends as much on travel style as skiing ability. Some people want deep powder and full days on the mountain. Others care more about a comfortable hotel, good meals, and enough to keep the non-skiers occupied.

Useful starting points for ski-holiday research: SkiAsia.com SkiJapan.com Powderhounds.com

A ski holiday, after all, is rarely only about the snow. Much of its pleasure lies in everything around it.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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Singapore American School SSG/ PEI Registration No 196400340R Registration Period: 22 June 2023 to 21 June 2027 Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Why Being Outside Works: A PRACTICAL LOOK AT STRESS, BURNOUT, AND MENTAL RESET By Laura Gatsos

"Get outside more" is right up there with "drink more water" on the list of health advice everyone knows but almost no one follows. Unlike most wellness clichés, though, this one actually holds up. Nature is one of the few stress-management tools that's free, backed by decades of research, and available almost everywhere — yet most of us still treat a walk outside as a luxury rather than something that meaningfully improves how we feel. Singapore, in particular, makes it easy to be in nature. In 1967, Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew announced his vision of creating "a garden city beautiful with flowers and trees," arguing that "a blighted urban jungle of concrete destroys the human spirit." His tree-planting campaign added 55,000 trees in just three years, inspired by the first tree he planted himself in 1963 — a Pink Mempat. His vision has endured. Today, Singapore has more than 300 parks and nature reserves, nearly half the island is covered in lush greenery, and the city is home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed botanical garden. In Singapore, a restorative walk through nature is rarely more than a few minutes away — and well worth your time.

the few environments that lets your mind truly rest because it gently holds your attention with things like a warm breeze, singing birds, or moving water, rather than demanding it like a screen. More recently, researchers put this to the test with real brain scans. In a 2024 study published in Scientific Reports, participants wore EEG monitors on two walks — one through nature, one through the city. The city walk left a clear mark of mental distraction on the brain; the nature walk didn't. A 2025 study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found the same thing.

WHERE TO DETACH

None of these studies asked people to climb mountains or disappear into the rainforest for a week — just to spend some time somewhere green, often for less than the length of a lunch break. Even a five-minute step outside, or gazing at lush greenery through a window, can help when time is tight. If you can manage a ten-minute walk down a treelined street, that's enough to make a difference. For a deeper reset, these three places are especially good.

THE SCIENCE OF SWITCHING OFF

Studies have shown that when you step outside, real changes start happening in your body, and they happen faster than you might expect. Even a few minutes can make a noticeable difference — your heart rate slows, your breathing steadies, and stress starts to ease. Spending time in nature consistently lowers cortisol, the hormone your body releases when it feels threatened — whether that's a never-ending inbox, a toddler mid-meltdown, or an endless to-do list. A University of Michigan study had city dwellers take a "nature pill" by spending just ten minutes outside, three times a week, while researchers measured their saliva before and after. Over eight weeks, cortisol dropped by 21 percent and another stress marker, alpha-amylase, fell by 28 percent, regardless of the time of day or how long participants stayed outside. The biggest benefits came from spending 20 to 30 minutes outdoors. In other words, you don't need a retreat in Bali — just twenty extra minutes somewhere in your day. Nature also has a powerful effect on mental wellbeing, which is especially important if you're dealing with burnout. In the 1980s, psychologists Rachel and Stephen Kaplan proposed that modern life depends on something they called "directed attention" — the mental energy you use to focus, block out distractions, or keep going when you're tired. When that energy runs low, you feel burned out: irritable, mentally foggy, and constantly on edge. The Kaplans argued that nature is one of

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SUNGEI BULOH WETLAND RESERVE Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is where you go to properly disappear. Tucked into Singapore's far northwest against the Johor Strait, it was the country's first wetland nature reserve and remains an ASEAN Heritage Park — 130 hectares of mangroves, mudflats, and secondary forest, home to more than 200 bird species, monitor lizards, and mudskippers going about their business in the mud. It's stiller than almost anywhere else on the island, built for easy walking rather than a workout. With free entry, there's no traffic, no notifications worth checking with the patchy signal — just the tide moving through the mangrove roots and the occasional rustling in the undergrowth that turns out to be a monitor lizard going about its day.

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SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS Singapore Botanic Gardens earns its reputation because it's so easy to make time for and beautiful. It's the world's only UNESCO World Heritage-listed tropical botanic garden, yet it's just minutes from Orchard Road and almost entirely free to explore. Open from 5 am until midnight, it works just as well for an early walk before work as it does for an after-dinner stroll once the heat lets up. You don't need to plan — just show up, and you'll probably notice something new each time. Whatever excuse you've been using for not getting outside, this one's a tough sell: it's open past midnight, and closer than the errand you just ran.

MAKING IT A HABIT

Make a date with yourself to start or end the day in nature, since Singapore's heat is at its strongest between noon and 3 pm. The Botanic Gardens open at 5 am for a reason — many Singaporeans walk the Rainforest Trail before their first coffee, precisely to beat the heat and start the day. Getting outside works best as regular maintenance, not a reward you save for the weekend. Twenty minutes a day does more for your stress than the three-hour hike you keep meaning to take. Free guided walks run most Saturday mornings if you want help spotting migratory shorebirds between September and March, or resident regulars like the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Purple Heron, and Stork-billed Kingfisher. There's a small visitor center near the entrance with ice-cold air conditioning, a restroom, and fresh water — a welcome sight after an hour in the humidity. SOUTHERN RIDGES If Sungei Buloh is about stillness, Southern Ridges is about movement. Stretching 10 kilometers from Mount Faber to Kent Ridge, the trail links five parks and moves between hilltop views, forest canopy, gardens, and quieter pockets of woodland. Henderson Waves, Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge, is the obvious highlight, but part of the appeal is that the scenery never stays the same for long. The full route takes three to five hours from HarbourFront MRT, but you don't need to commit to the whole thing. Henderson Waves and the Forest Walk together make an excellent hour-long outing, and the bridge is especially beautiful around sunset. This is the best choice if switching off means moving your body rather than sitting still — and given how strongly walking specifically shows up in the research above, that's not a small thing.

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

By Minja Lin What’s not to love about skiing? It can take you from sweeping alpine views to snow-laden pine forests and quiet, wideopen valleys. Add in the dopamine rush of speeding down tree-lined paths and floating through deep, untouched powder, and it’s easy to see why the sport is so addictive. However, behind the thrill is a long list of rules, gear, and techniques to learn before hitting the slopes. If you’re doing this for the first time, don't worry—here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Choosing your destination Singapore’s prime location gives easy access to Asia’s best skiing destinations. For world-class powder, head to Japan. You’ll find everything from wide, gentle runs for beginners to playful, adventurous terrain for advanced skiers. If you’d rather have a last-minute, budget trip close to the city, South Korea is best. For high-tech infrastructure and a luxury alpine experience, fly over to China. Want bigger and better thrills? Try the massive, high-altitude peaks and deep natural powder of the Himalayas in India. And for a unique getaway during the off-season, head to Australia to experience rolling slopes and snow gum trees instead of traditional alpine peaks and pine trees.

clothing and gear rentals. Tipping is not part of the culture in most of Asia and may be considered impolite. If you truly want to show your appreciation, providing your instructor with a hot drink, a meal, or a snack is culturally appropriate and highly appreciated. For your first lesson, work on the basics: clipping in and out of your skis, falling safely, and getting back up. These are essential skills to avoid injury, stay clear of traffic, and navigate the slopes with confidence. Next, you'll learn how to load and unload chairlifts, which opens up higher mountain runs, treelined trails, and sweeping alpine views. As the terrain steepens, so does your speed. Natural survival instincts can cause you to tense up and lean back, away from the danger. But to maintain better control and stability, you’ll need to fight your impulses, relax, lean forward, and stay centered over your skis instead of your backseat. You’ll learn how to make parallel turns, carved turns, and navigate steep terrain. After that, you can progress to navigating steep moguls, tree glades, and deep powder. Skiing is not intuitive, so keep your expectations low, and don’t expect things to click right away. Most people need extended time on skis, usually 3-5 seasons, to master the sport. Above all, stay honest about your skiing ability. Overestimating your

When choosing a resort, size matters. Larger resorts have more of everything, whether it’s varied terrain for every skill level, high-tech lifts, luxury hotels, or a buzzing après-ski experience. All of this comes hand in hand with higher costs and larger crowds. If you want something different, consider smaller resorts. You’ll find budget-friendly pricing, zero crowd stress, and gentle, low-altitude terrain that’s easier for beginners to navigate.

Learning to Ski To book English-language instructors and lessons, you can do so through your chosen resort or via platforms like Klook and Viator. These services are in high demand, so book 3-6 months in advance to secure a slot. In Japan, most major resorts have international ski schools and certified instructors, and the booking process tends to be well-organized and seamless. All-inclusive packages are popular in South Korea and China. You can bundle your instructor or group lesson together with your lift tickets,

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

skill–whether you’re deciding on a trail, choosing your gear, or getting a ski binding adjustment–can be dangerous. Skiing equipment that’s overly aggressive can be difficult to control, and setting a DIN too high significantly increases the risk of severe knee injury during a fall.

Navigating the Slopes If it’s your first time at a particular resort, consider hiring a guide or instructor to show you around the mountain. Remember to download an offline map or grab a paper map before heading out. It’s essential for navigating the mountain, finding terrain suited to your skill level, and monitoring lift times. The top of the map features mountain peaks, the highest elevation points, while the bottom represents the base of the mountain. Most resorts have multiple peaks, so you’ll need to keep track of how the trails and valleys connect to stay on the correct side of the mountain. Dark, straight lines indicate lifts and are often marked with symbols showing lift type, such as chairs and gondolas. Curved, colored lines represent trails and level of difficulty. Color codes and symbols vary by region, but in general, green circle trails feature wide, gentle slopes for beginners. Intermediate blue square runs have wide slopes with moderate inclines, short but steep drops, and gentle pitches. Black diamonds are for advanced skiers, with steep, potentially ungroomed terrain as well as moguls, chutes, ice and trees. While navigating the slopes, look for trail markers for run names, difficulty ratings, directional arrows and safety warnings. Check summit info boards when exiting a lift, and always keep an eye out for slow zones, hazard markers and closed trail markers. To stay safe on the slopes, you’ll need to follow basic mountain etiquette. Always give downhill skiers plenty of space. They can't see you, so it's up to you to anticipate their speed, skill level, and trajectory. If you need a break, pull off to the side of the trail in a visible spot, ideally above a hill. If you fall, gather your gear quickly and move out of the flow of traffic. Finally, stay alert when getting on and off ski lifts. When dealing with bulky gear and limited sightlines, one wrong move can cause a wipeout. Look to the ski lift attendants for assistance, and be sure to load beginners and small children on the side closest to them.

Keeping Warm You can’t just pick up and go when it comes to skiing. It requires forethought and a sizable packing list. To beat subzero temperatures, experienced skiers rely on a proven three-layer system to stay warm and dry. It starts with a base layer—a thermal top and bottom made

from merino wool or a synthetic blend to trap heat while pulling sweat away from the skin. Next is the mid-layer, such as a fleece or insulated down jacket to keep you warm. Finally, an outer shell jacket and pants will shield you from the elements. When shopping, look for features such as powder skirts and bibs to block snow, zippered vents to release excess heat, and a left-sleeve pocket for RFID lift pass scanning. Protecting your skin and eyes is just as important as staying warm on the slopes. Since snow reflects powerful UV rays, you’ll need a broad-spectrum sunscreen—ideally a high-lipid, waxy formula that also shields your face from windburn. For your eyes, a pair of goggles is essential. You may want to find one with multiple lenses that you can switch out depending on weather conditions. Go for a lighter tint for sunny days and a darker tint for low-light conditions, when it’s harder to see bumps and ice. Round out your protection with a neck gaiter or balaclava to shield your face, a safety-certified helmet, and waterproof, insulated gloves or mittens. Finally, opt for thin- to medium-weight wool ski socks to keep your feet warm and dry. In Singapore, you can find everything you need to dress up for the slopes. For premium brands, head to The Ride Side (Plaza Singapura) for Burton and 686 apparel, or go to Outdoor Life (Funan Mall) for Patagonia and Black Diamond gear. For reliable base layers for the whole family, Uniqlo has you covered with multiple locations, while Decathlon offers budget-friendly, one-stop shopping to gear up from head to toe. If you need a wider selection, you can rent or shop at your skiing destination. You can also opt for online retailers that offer international shipping, such as Helly Hansen, The North Face, and Patagonia. For rental options in Singapore, check out Popsicle Asia (Tannery Lane) or Winter Buddy (Ang Mo Kio).

Choosing Equipment If you’re new to skiing, it’s a good idea to rent multiple times and get expert advice before committing to a purchase. If your home base is Singapore, shopping at your skiing destination is your best option. You’ll find a wealth of choices in the many shops lining Kanda Sports District in Tokyo, Japan, or the Nonhyeon-dong district in Seoul, South Korea. At most major resorts, you can demo equipment before committing to a purchase. Once you’ve gained the experience and know-how to select your own gear, you can opt for online retailers like Evo, Snowcountry and Skis.com, which offer a great selection and international shipping direct to Singapore.

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If you can only get one thing, buy a good pair of boots. They provide comfort, safety, and longevity, often outlasting

many pairs of skis. A snug fit is a must, and your heels should never lift off the soles. Beginners can look for a soft flex to absorb mistakes, while more experienced skiers will need a stiffer flex for precise responsiveness. For those who are willing to pay for a better fit, comfort, and performance, consider getting a custom boot fitting. It’s a multi-step process that involves custom footbeds, custom liner and shell modifications. In Asia, your best bet is Boot Solutions Japan, with locations in Niseko and Hakuba. For great service outside of Japan, look for a Masterfit-certified technician or a shop affiliated with an organization such as America’s Best Bootfitter. When it comes to choosing skis, you’ll need to consider your skiing ability as well as the terrain. Soft flex offers easy maneuverability for beginners, while a stiffer flex provides experienced skiers with better speed, stability, and edge grip on varied terrain. Ski lengths also matter—go shorter (near chin height) for beginners, lightweights and groomed terrain. You’ll need to go longer (head height or above) for advanced skiers, heavyweights and ungroomed terrain. When it comes to ski width, you’ll need a narrow width for carving, a medium width for all-terrain versatility, and a wide width for floating on powder. In many countries such as South Korea and China, luggage transfer services provide hands-free shipping between the airport and your hotel. In Japan, Silk Crane Storage and SkiStorage Japan will not only ship your gear but also provide long-term storage, ski tune-ups, and laundry. Letting these services handle the heavy lifting frees you to simply enjoy your time on the mountain.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

Your Private Phuket Paradise Awaits Proudly recognised as Thailand’s only resort honoured in the 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards.

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INTO THE WILD HEART OF BORNEO By Claire Graham, Alchemist Travel

ARRIVALS: WHERE THE JUNGLE BEGINS AT THE DOOR

I first visited Borneo in 2016 when I was living in London. I was pregnant with my second child, and after nearly a day of traveling with an eighteen-month-old, my husband and I landed in this other world of a hot, steamy jungle surrounded by wildlife, miles from anything we had experienced in Europe. Since that trip, I had dreamed of taking all three of my children back, so they could remember the magic of this extraordinary destination. Now, living just a short flight away in Singapore, that dream was finally within reach, and planning it turned out to be far simpler than I expected. As a travel advisor, I spent months researching Borneo for clients, from the lodges and the guides to the logistics of moving between jungle, river, and coast. When it came to planning our own family trip, I put all of that knowledge to work. What surprised even me was how achievable it was: three nights, long weekend, direct from Singapore, with a private guide throughout. No group tours, no compromise on experience, and, importantly, no stress.

GETTING THERE

The most popular base for orangutan encounters is Sandakan, on the northeast corner of Borneo island. There are no direct flights from Singapore, so you connect through either Kota Kinabalu

or Kuala Lumpur, which is something worth factoring into your planning. We flew with AirAsia and, after an early start, arrived in Sandakan by afternoon, where our private guide was waiting for us. My youngest boy loves meeting guides, and they immediately high-fived as we headed to our driver for the short 20-minute transfer to our first hotel. Having a single guide across the entire trip, who knew the animals, the walks, and the best spots at each moment of day, made an enormous difference to what we saw and experienced. The first thing you notice arriving in Sandakan is that the boundary between town and rainforest is almost imperceptible. This is one of the oldest tropical rainforests on earth, and it presses against the edges of everything. Our base for the first night was just two kilometers from the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center and within half a kilometer of the Rainforest Discovery Center. The sounds of the jungle drifted in on the evening air and the ecolodges here take their environmental credentials seriously: solar-heated water, biodegradable toiletries, chalets that face the tree line rather than the road. We had secured the only glamping tent at the hotel, with a private pool tucked away from the other huts, a specific request I’d flagged when booking, knowing it would make the trip for the children. Large

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enough for five, it delivered completely on the safari fantasy. As the kids jumped into the pool, we ordered lunch from the local menu and soaked it all in. After lunch, we set off into the nearby protected forest with our guide for an evening walk through the rainforest canopy. The treetop walkway is a wonderful introduction to the Borneo jungle, and our guide brought it to life by teaching the children to identify different animal calls, including the distant whoops of gibbons in the nearby trees. But the highlight of the walk came when a huge mother orangutan landed on the walkway just in front of us, her baby clinging tightly to her. With no one else around, we watched quietly as she moved unhurriedly along the treetop path, pausing to search for a suitable tree to feed from. Following this extraordinary creature through the canopy was such a privilege, and experiencing it on our very first evening set the tone for everything that followed.

MORNING AT SEPILOK: FACE TO FACE WITH BORNEO’S ICONS

Day two began early with a local breakfast before heading to the main event: the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. Established in 1964, Sepilok was the world’s first official orangutan rehabilitation project, rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing orphaned and injured orangutans back into the wild.

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Young arrivals progress from the nursery through outdoor enclosures to semi-wild feeding platforms before eventual release. Our guide took us straight to the nursery first, which is a deliberate choice, before the crowds arrived. Watching the young orangutans move around, each with their own personality, navigating ropes and platforms with obvious intelligence, is quietly humbling. We see orangutans at the Singapore Zoo, of course, but there is something entirely different about watching them here, knowing that the ticket price directly contributes to their survival in the wild. We then headed to the main feeding platform where wild orangutans come to feed. It was busier; it would have been hard to beat the stillness of the evening before, but we were lucky to have a close sighting of a large male enjoying his breakfast before the noisy macaque monkeys came and chased him off. Viewings of the wild orangutans are never guaranteed, so having already encountered one in the canopy the previous evening meant we went in relaxed rather than expectant.

Back at the lodge there was time to walk the mangrove walkway searching for small snakes, frogs and flying lemurs, or simply to sit and watch the river. With a private guide, the pace was always ours to set. Our final wildlife cruise took us along a narrower tributary with denser canopy, closer sightings, the most intimate of the lot. By this point, the children had sharpened their tracking instincts considerably and were spotting movement in the trees before the adults did. and exactly right for this kind of trip. After a late lunch with delicious local dishes and some downtime, we set out on our first afternoon river cruise.

FROM THE RIVER BACK TO REALITY

The guided cruises are the centerpiece of these river lodges: a slow drift along the river as the light drops, binoculars in hand, scanning the banks for movement. After dark, the night cruise introduces another spectacle entirely: the fireflies massing in the riverside trees, their blinking resembling strings of Christmas lights strung along the water’s edge. We drifted back to the lodge and fell asleep to the music of the jungle.

Our driver and guide then took us to Sandakan’s jetty for one of Sabah’s most cinematic journeys: an hourlong cruise from the Sulu Sea, through towering mangrove forest, and up into the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary. We had packed snacks, another small detail I always advise clients to sort in advance, and the children were content as the landscape changed dramatically around us.

We didn’t spot either the elephants or the orangutans that morning, and this is something I always tell clients to expect. Wildlife travel is never a guarantee. What we did watch was a family of proboscis monkeys feeding and playing in the trees for a long, unhurried stretch, with no one rushing us to the next spot. That patience is something a private guide makes possible.

Our nature lodge sat amongst the mangroves, with separate huts connected by walkways looping out through the jungle. Simple, purposeful,

For those who want to extend the trip, Gaya Island just off the coast from Kota Kinabalu offers a natural next chapter: overwater villas where the reef begins at the base of the ladder, for families who want to balance jungle with sea.

DEEPER UPRIVER: THE KINABATANGAN’S INTERIOR

The third morning began before the heat of the day. We set off by boat with hot coffees in hand, and a picnic breakfast to visit Pitas Oxbow Lake. This is a body of water cut off from the main river by centuries of meandering, with a stillness that feels untouched by the modern world. This is where pygmy elephants come to drink, and where orangutans move through the low branches along the water’s edge. Borneo’s pygmy elephants are smaller than their mainland Asian cousins and considerably rarer; a sighting here is the kind of moment travelers come back from Borneo talking about for years.

THE RIVER ROAD: SANDAKAN TO THE KINABATANGAN

After our last night at the lodge, we took the morning boat back to Sandakan and flew home to Singapore. We were back in time for school on Monday.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

What stayed with all of us, children included, wasn’t the tick-list of animals or the Instagram moments. It was the pace of it. Four days in the jungle, moving at the rhythm of the wildlife, with someone who knew exactly where to be and when. That is what a well-planned trip to Borneo feels like, and it is closer, more accessible, and more affordable from Singapore than most people realize. If you’d like to know more about planning a family trip to Borneo, get in touch via @claire.alchemisttravel.

THE ESSENTIALS • Fly to Kota Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur to connect to Sandakan in Sabah, Malaysia • The Kinabatangan wildlife corridor is accessible year-round • Wildlife sightings are generally strongest during the drier months (March–October) • Orangutan feedings at Sepilok run at 10am and 3pm • Best suited to families with a genuine appetite for wildlife over resort amenities.

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Move With Confidence

Low-waste Living in Singapore By Richard Hartung

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

About 310 kilograms of stuff per person goes into household trash every year in Singapore, with the biggest culprits being paper, plastic, food, and clothing. Admittedly, household waste isn’t broken out separately, so “domestic” includes waste from places such as restaurants, schools, and churches. Regardless, the amount is staggering. So, what can each of us do to reduce that waste?

A FRAMEWORK

It turns out that plenty of small steps can lead to a big change. While the three Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle – as well as a 4th R, “refuse,” may sound trite, they’re the backbone of a less-waste lifestyle.

“Refuse” is actually a good place to start. For example, stop accepting or using plastic bags, plastic straws, single-use containers, plastic-wrapped snacks, or free merchandise. Before you buy anything, ask whether you really need it, or if you can borrow it or substitute something else. Only buy gifts when you actually need to give them rather than for “someday.” You can also reuse an item or sell it secondhand on a site such as Carousell rather than buying something new.

PAPER

Since paper is one of the biggest categories of waste, it’s a good place to focus. While much of the paper may be cardboard boxes or packaging behind the scenes at stores or schools, there is still plenty we can do at home. When ordering food, for instance, ask the restaurant not to provide menus, napkins, or paper plates. At home, use dish towels or rags instead of paper towels, and cloth napkins instead of paper napkins. Use “print preview” to check anything you plan to print so you can minimize extra pages and print on both sides of the page. Go paperless for banking and other bills. To stop receiving junk mail delivered by SingPost, you can submit an opt-out request on the SingPost website by going to Contact Us and choosing to Opt-Out of Advertising Mail.

PLASTIC

Plastic may be one of the most visible and annoying types of waste. To avoid it when you’re going out, Green Kulture suggests having a Zero-Waste Kit so you can avoid single-use items. Take a reusable water bottle, a collapsible food container for takeaway, reusable cutlery, cloth shopping bags, and a reusable straw. You can also consider buying some of your groceries from a bulk store that doesn’t provide packaging, such as The Green Collective, Scoop, or Unpackt. You would take your own containers. Scoop at Great World, for instance, sells beans, lentils, grains, flour, nuts, sweets and more that you can put in your food containers. The Green Collective at Funan sells shampoos, detergents, spices and more. There are others as well. If you make your snacks at home, you’ll reduce plastic too. Baking muffins, cookies, crackers, for instance, means you don’t need to buy plastic snack packs.

FOOD

Food waste is a surprisingly large category, and each household in Singapore throws away about 140 kilograms of food each year. You can reduce food waste by planning meals before shopping, storing food properly, using leftovers, and freezing extra food. When you go shopping for groceries, look for items with minimal or no packaging, and put vegetables or fruits into your own reusable bags rather than plastic bags at the supermarket. Wet markets similarly offer opportunities to buy food with less packaging. Realize, too, that going past the ‘best by’ date on a label doesn’t mean you can’t eat the food; it just means it may not be as fresh as before, and you can check to see whether it is still edible. There are also ways to keep food from being thrown away at restaurants, reduce your costs, and cut waste. You can find restaurants with extra food on Treatsure and use your own container to take it home. The Just Dabao app connects consumers with surplus food from hundreds of merchants and sells the food at a discount. Olio lets you get surplus food – as well as household items – from volunteers who collect it or from people who want to give them away.

CLOTHES

Clothing is a large category of waste, in part because of fast fashion, and more than 30 percent of clothing ends up being discarded in a year or less. Careful purchases, buying second-hand clothing, and recycling will help reduce waste.

The first step toward a more sustainable wardrobe is not buying more clothing. When you do need something, avoid lower-quality fast-fashion items from sites such as Shein or Temu, which will wear out quickly. Second-hand or pre-loved clothing has become trendy, making it easier than ever to shop sustainably without sacrificing style. Singapore offers many excellent options, including REFASH, The Cartels, Reebonz, or the Salvation Army. If you have a special occasion on the horizon and need an outfit you’ll likely wear only once, consider renting instead of buying. Clothing rental services have expanded significantly in recent years, offering fashionable and cost-effective options while reducing waste. Finally, when you are ready to part with clothing that’s still in good condition, think about giving it a second life. Organizations such Cloop or Greensquare make it easy to donate unwanted items, helping keep textiles out of landfills and making them available for others to use and enjoy.

DO EVEN MORE

There are other ways to reduce waste too. Recycling all kinds of household items, including electronics, can reduce waste. While electricity and water are more intangible, you can reduce waste by turning off the lights and digital devices or the water faucet and shower sooner. Using public transport reduces petrol usage. And Repair Kopitiams host monthly repair meetups to fix broken items. While your reduction in waste may seem small, it makes a big difference as part of a collective effort. You can increase your impact by telling others what you’re doing, too. Together, we actually can shift to low-waste living in Singapore.

THE NEXT FRONTIER Sichuan, China’s Wild Southwest

Long Lake in Jiuzhaigou

By Kristin Lim, Outpost Travel, An Affiliate of Alchemist Travel There is a version of China that reaches the rest of the world: technologically formidable, politically fraught, and difficult to read from afar. Yet beyond that veneer is a nation with a rich history, landscapes of unseen beauty, and a complex amalgamation of people with untold stories. From the otherworldly beauty of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong to the ancient, vibrant streets of Chengdu, Sichuan is a region that has stood the test of time.

Beyond the scenery lies an intriguing myth. According to Tibetan legend, the mountain god Dago bestowed a magical mirror of wind and clouds to his beloved, the goddess Semo. However, a jealous demon tried to steal it, and in the ensuing battle, Semo dropped the mirror, shattering it into 108 pieces. The fragments of the mirror fell across the valley, forming the distinctive, colorful lakes that dot its landscape today.

Our Sichuan journey starts with a flight into Chengdu, the capital city of the province. It is perhaps best known for two things: the home of China’s panda research base and mala, the numbingly spicy flavor profile that has taken Singapore and much of the world by storm. However, most visitors don’t realize that Chengdu is an ancient city founded in the 4th century BC and has the rare distinction of being one of a handful of Chinese cities to have kept its original name for over 2,000 years.

Jiuzhaigou’s three valleys meet in the middle, in a long Y shape. Shuzheng Valley is a 14km long stretch going up the middle, before branching off into Zechawa Valley and Rize Valley–the left and right routes respectively. Visitors start at the bottom of the Y, where official park coaches shuttle from the entrance to the various scenic stops in a hop-on, hop-off format.

A highlight for many visitors to Chengdu is an evening of Sichuan opera, distinct from other forms of Chinese opera for its bian lian, or face-changing performance. Artists switch painted masks in the blink of an eye, often multiple times in a row. The technique is passed down only from master to disciple, historically within families, and remains a formally protected national secret.

JIUZHAIGOU

After a night or two in Chengdu, head to Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO-listed nature reserve on the northern edge of Sichuan province, a 1.5-hr high-speed train away. Set across 72,000 hectares of lush forests, Jiuzhaigou is an ethereal kaleidoscope of iridescent lakes, snow-capped peaks, and waterfalls. The name jiuzhaigou literally translates to “Nine Settlement Valley,” after the nine Tibetan villages spread across the area, most of which remain populated today.

The additional 220 Chinese Yuan for a seat on a smaller, VIP bus is worth the premium. Curiously known as a “nanny bus,” it saves visitors the hassle of negotiating the coaches that tend to get packed during peak seasons. However, the trade-off is the inability to linger at a spot for an extended period of time to hike or explore on your own, as the nanny bus won’t wait for very long before moving on. The best way to tackle Jiuzhaigou is over at least two days, with the first day spent on a “nanny bus” to get the lay of the land and see the major attractions the park has to offer. The second day is for revisiting the top two or three spots of your choice for hiking or simply to take in the view. This time is when an official park coach is helpful, as you can hop on and off at your own pace. At the end of Zechawa Valley, at the top left of the Y, is Long Lake, the deepest lake in the park and fed by the majestic snow-capped peaks above it. With a view that would not be out of place in, say, the Dolomites, Long Lake is a sight to behold. Like the other

lakes in Jiuzhaigou, Long Lake’s vibrant peacock blue coloring is the result of high concentrations of calcium carbonate, dissolved from the surrounding limestone mountains and deposited across the lakebeds. Lower down the Y, Shuzheng Waterfall offers a gentler counterpoint to some of its more dramatic counterparts. Splitting around the trees and shrubs that grow out of the rock, the waterfall flows across the Shuzheng Village area, where taking the time to walk this stretch rewards you with a step back into an older Sichuan and the ordinary rhythm of a Tibetan village from days long past.

HUANGLONG

If time permits, spending a day at the lesser-known yet equally beautiful Huanglong is well worth it. A two-hour drive from Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong is also a UNESCO-listed site, with its travertine pools, hot springs, caves, and diverse forest ecosystems. Literally translated as “yellow dragon” after the shape of its valley floor, Huanglong has over 3,400 shallow pools, each rimmed by its own low dam. These unique travertine formations are created by spring water rich in dissolved calcium carbonate, which precipitates as the water flows, hardening over time.

Waters near Shuzheng Village

En route to or from Jiuzhaigou, it is worth finding time to trek the beautiful mountainside and stop at a traditional Tibetan village. A home visit or an incense workshop offers an opportunity to connect with local Tibetans and learn about their cultural beliefs and traditional way of life.

WHERE TO STAY

After long days spent exploring at altitude in Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, the creature comforts of a luxury abode become a welcome reward. The Conrad Jiuzhaigou is a luxury mountain resort 15 minutes away from the park entrance. Opened in 2021, it features villa-style rooms in spacious, low-rise buildings. Choose a room with a mountain view and end the day with a cup of Chinese tea while looking out from the window seat. Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a splurge option in this area. The first Ritz-Carlton Reserve to open in China and one of only nine worldwide, it offers quietly luxurious villas with sweeping views of the Min mountain range. Each villa comes with a personal host from the surrounding Tibetan community. The Upper House Chengdu is the ideal city stay, combining modern comfort with contemporary Chinese design. Featuring a restored Qing dynasty courtyard, it is close to the sights and sounds of the city and is directly connected to Taikoo Li, a luxury retail district with the requisite designer flagships. From arid deserts to still mountains and lush valleys, the Middle Kingdom holds layers and multitudes that most only get a glimpse of. Sichuan is as good a place to start as any. To start planning your Sichuan trip, contact Kristin at kristin@outposttravel.co.

Photo Credit: Jeff Ang

Huanglong Pools Traditional Tibetan Village

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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