A handpicked selection of the finest things to buy, fab places to try and fun things to do in Singapore

Ladies & gentlemen, whip out your smart phones and lock in your leave - after April & May, there are no more national holidays till August... Let the professionals help you make the most of your precious days off with Lightfoot Travel's great ideas on bespoke mini trips - minus the long plane journeys and jetlag. Seeking Serenity, Head to Java, Indonesia If you want to immerse yourself in ruggedly beautiful scenery and exotic cultures, Java is just the place. Cut a path inland to Java's rural heartland - one of the most peaceful spots in the world - to stay at the ultra-Zen Amanjiwo ...read more

In need of a seductive city break with your significant other? Boutique hotel expert Mr & Mrs Smith shares three in-the-know ideas for inspiring urban getaways in Asia... Rooftop Romance There are a handful of happening boutique hotels in Singapore, but we're loving latest launch The Fullerton Bay Hotel for its magical Marina Bay waterfront perch. It's super-centrally set in the city's business and cultural district, but you'll feel a world away relaxing by the pool at the seventh-floor rooftop Lantern bar, soaking up Singapore's striking skyline. Order a signature Red Lantern cocktail, a lip-smacking blend of tequila, watermelon, cucumber, cointreau and lime, a homage ...read more

Refuel your wanderlust and return home refreshed with our pick of the region's most inspiring weekend breaks. Hop on a sidecar in... Shanghai, China For those short on time, stay at the chic and central Urbn Hotel and explore Shanghai in funky fashion aboard the sidecar of a vintage motor scooter. Our expert English-speaking guide will take you on an exhilarating ride through the city's hidden markets and futuristic districts, letting you in on local secrets not divulged by guidebooks. Tours are tailor-made to your interests - be it Art Deco buildings, video shooting or champagne drinking (for you, that is, not your driver). Take ...read more

If you want to escape - as in really and truly escape - nothing beats marooning yourself on a tropical island. So here are our picks, from twinkly beach nightlife to blissfully obscure isles. Lashings of luxe guaranteed. Hot honeymoon hideout - Pamalican Island, Philippines The Philippines is quietly becoming the place to visit in Southeast Asia. But don't fret - with 7,000+ islands sprinkled across the Pacific Ring of Fire, it has plenty to go around. Our favourite is Pamalican, 360km southwest of Manila. This little island - a 500m sprint across, in parts - is scalloped by powder-soft sands that rival any in ...read more

Love travel, hate disappointment? We hear you. If you're anything like us, you've been somewhat - how shall we put it - uninspired by travel agents. Finally, a brand spanking new bespoke travel company Lightfoot Travel has arrived. Run by people with the same mindset, Lightfoot gives you insider advice on where to head, what to do, and where to stay. Lightfoot Travel's aim is to make travel fun, fast and hitch-free, whether you're planning a trip of a lifetime or have a few days to spare. They'll inspire you with ideas based on your likes, dislikes and motivation (romance ... family bonding ... adventure ...read more

Hanging for some fresh, alpine air? Ready to climb a mountain? Like to see what everyone is raving about this ski season? Well the forecasts are good, there is already steady snow fall and with this quick run down we'll get you ready for the sensational Japanese powder! Hakuba This resort in Nagano was the host of the winter Olympics 1998. Fly direct to Tokyo and then just zip up on the bullet train in about 2 hours. We love: The close proximity from Singapore, decent hotels on the slopes, great long cruising runs, the amazing scenery, sunshine, hardly any lift queues. and a few ...read more

The old saying 'getting there is half the fun', doesn't often apply these days when flying, especially those nasty long haul night flights. However, flying business or first class would make it a lot more bearable than being stuck down the back! So here is everything you need to know to increase your chances of getting an upgrade: Be loyal to a frequent flyer program. The higher your status the more chance you have of an upgrade. Frequentflyer.com helps you compare the different options. Choose a busy flight time. If it's oversold they may need to upgrade people, so why not you! Dress the part. ...read more