Living in Singapore Magazine - January/February 2026

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2026

New Year, New Hobbies

FINDING LOVE IN THE LION CITY

THE ART OF LETTING GO

NETWORKING TIPS AND TRICKS

Explore the dating scene's ups and downs

How to let go of the past to make space for the future

Networking to make friends and build community

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WHO WE ARE EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief: Susan Williams communications@aasingapore.com Publishing Editor: Melinda Murphy generalmanager@aasingapore.com Happy New Year, and welcome to our January-February issue! As we head into a new year, we find ourselves on the cusp of new beginnings – a perfect moment to reflect, reset, and embrace new horizons. Whether you’re settling into life in Singapore or have been here for years, there’s something invigorating about stepping into a fresh chapter and trying something different.

LAYOUT Graphic Designer: Susan Williams graphics@aasingapore.com

This issue is all about exploration. Inside, you’ll find inspiration for activities and hobbies that are trending in Singapore right now. There’s never been a better time to pick up a new skill or rediscover a passion you’ve set aside.

COLUMNISTS Andrea McKenna Brankin, Marc Servos

We also explore the art of connecting. Networking can feel daunting, but it’s really about building meaningful relationships, both professionally and personally. We’ve rounded up tips and insights to help you put yourself out there, meet new people, and expand your community.

For those looking to dip their toes into the dating scene, our feature on modern romance in Singapore offers an honest, often humorous look at what it’s like to meet someone new in this vibrant city.

Of course, new horizons also mean letting go of the past. This issue encourages reflection – learning from experiences, forgiving yourself for missteps, and making room for the opportunities ahead.

We hope this edition inspires you to try something new, connect in unexpected ways, and embrace the possibilities that a fresh year brings. Whether it’s exploring a hobby, meeting new friends, or simply finding a moment of joy in your daily life, there’s no better time to start than now.

ADVERTISING Advertising Manager: Thila Chandra thila@aasingapore.com

CONTRIBUTORS Aimee, Pedrinha Furtado, Tiara Giles, Richard Hartung, Amanda Jaffe, Christina Liew, Melinda Murphy, Deji Okediji, Susan Williams, Kay Yin AMERICAN ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS President: Michelle Reeb Vice President: Christopher Ellis Treasurer: Brian Rogove Secretary: Daniel Moss Directors-at-Large: Heidi Hughes, Olive Ngah, Tianna Nguyen, Colton Payne, Carlos Ruano, Carmen Schwender AmCham: Dr. Hsien-Hsien Lei AWA: Paige Jenkinson SAFL: Stacy Ohrt-Billingslea SAS: Jennifer Sparrow The American Club: Dan Gewirtz Non-Voting Members US Embassy: Lisa Liao US Navy COMLOG WESTPAC: RDML Todd "Chimi" Cimicata AAS: Melinda Murphy

Here’s to new adventures, bold choices, and a year filled with growth and discovery.

PUBLISHER – AMERICAN ASSOCIATION

Editor-in-Chief

56A Boat Quay, Singapore 049845 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.

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.

SUBSCRIPTION

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

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 NPE Print Communications Pte Ltd, 39 & 41 Kallang Place, 339169. Living in Singapore magazine Print Permit No. MDDI (P) 052/04/2025.

FOLLOW US!

CONTENTS 06. COMMUNITY NEWS Check out what we've been up to and what's coming up.

17. 90 ACTS OF CHARITY See what our community has been doing to give back.

20. SIXTY A love letter to Singapore.

21. ROW, ROW, ROW...

Dragon boating for the first time.

23. RAWA ISLAND RESORT

30. NEW CITY, NEW TRICKS Some ideas of new things to try this year.

White sand beaches and azure blue waters.

24. GOAL SETTING Tips for global citizens to set goals.

26. LOVE ACTUALLY Visit the dating scene in Singapore.

28. NETWORKING Making friends and connections isn't so bad.

31. EXPAT OBSTABLES Overcoming uniquely expat roadblocks.

32. THE ART OF LETTING GO How to let go of the old to let in the new.

34. HOT HOBBIES IN SINGAPORE What's hot these days in Singapore.

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

BY MICHELLE REEB As we welcome a new year, I’m reminded of how lucky we are to live in a community that continually shows up for one another. January always feels like a fresh start in Singapore – new goals, renewed energy, and countless opportunities to connect. And with Chinese New Year just around the corner, we get a second chance to celebrate fresh beginnings. I hope the Year of the Fire Horse brings your family strength, prosperity, and plenty of joyful gatherings.

For AAS, the coming months are especially exciting. Our 90th George Washington Ball, Singapore Splendor, is nearly here. This milestone event honors our long history at AAS and celebrates SG60, recognizing the people who make our community what it is. I can’t wait to welcome so many of you on February 28 for an unforgettable evening.

This year also marks the continuation of our 90 Acts of Charity initiative, a community-wide effort to give back in big and small ways. Whether you join one of our organized projects or do one on your own, every act of kindness moves us closer to our goal and strengthens the spirit of service that defines AAS. Here’s to a meaningful, connected, and inspiring start to 2026!

Warm regards, Michelle González Reeb President, American Association of Singapore

AAS STRATEGIC PARTNERS PATRIOT PARTNERS

STARS & STRIPES PARTNERS

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

AMERICAN COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORY

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

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.

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UPCOMING EVENTS Thirsty Eagles Jan 16, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Freelancers, Entrepreneurs & Small Business Owners Coffee Jan 22, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 90th George Washington Ball Feb 28, 6:30 PM

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Upcoming Holidays January 19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

February 14 Valentine's Day

February 1 Thaipusam

February 16 President's Day

February 2 Groundhog Day

February 17-18 Chinese New Year

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

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The toys...the kids...the Christmas spirit! You brought it all and we loved every moment of it!

Donors around Singapore helped us fill 16 giant boxes with brand new toys for sick children at KK Women's and Children's Hospital. We are so thankful for your generosity and supporting Toys for Tots not only at the event, but by donating toys at the many collection locations across Singapore. The US Marines and AAS staff delivered those toys directly to the children.

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

AAS is proud to spearhead this event but it really does take the whole community to pull this together. Big thanks to our Deputy Chief of Mission, Graham Mayer, Allied, AmCham, Brown-Forman, Chatsworth International School, Expat Dental, International Medical Clinic, International Community School, IPA Global, Marunda, Scouting America, Singapore American School, Smilefocus, Stamford American International School, The American Club, USA Girl Scouts, US Embassy, and US Marines.

See more photos here.

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Shoeboxes for Sailors

Thanksgiving Parade and Feast

AAS and International Community School joined forces to pack 100 shoeboxes for US Navy sailors based here in Singapore. A huge thank you to all who pitched in to help and who generously donated items. This project is a wonderful way to give back at Thanksgiving to those serving our nation, living far from home. We delivered dozens of packages to deployed members, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.

AAS kicked off the festive season with a full-on feast, complete with games and crafts at Raffles House in Fort Canning Park! Thank you to all who joined in and brought in donations for The Food Bank Singapore! Congratulations to the lucky draw winners, who took home camp vouchers courtesy of Camp GungHo and an insulated trolley bag courtesy of Huber's Butchery! Congrats also to the balloon-decorating winner, who received a set of four tickets to Disney on Ice courtesy of Feld Entertainment. We hope you enjoyed the delicious turkey dinner, the cocktails courtesy of Brown-Forman, the balloon parade, and the beautiful setting!

See more photos here.

See more photos here.

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

A Story to Remember

By Sara B., Troop 1010G My scouting experience began in March, when I officially joined Scouts and stepped into a world filled with teamwork, community service, and new adventures. I was excited to learn new skills and to take part in activities that would help me grow as a person. One of the most memorable projects I participated in was a community book drive. This experience taught me responsibility, cooperation, and the joy of giving back.

The book drive started with a simple idea: to collect used books and donate them to a community library so that others could read them. I loved the idea because books have always been important to me, and I wanted to help more people have access to them. I began by collecting books from several different places. I asked students at my school if they had books they no longer needed. Many were happy to donate because they liked the thought of their books finding new readers. I also visited neighbors in my condo and asked if they could contribute. Some even donated large bags of books. On top of that, I reached out to friends and family, and they were excited to help. By the end of the week, I had gathered a variety of books for readers of all ages.

To make the book drive even more successful, I created a poster to spread the word. Designing the poster was a fun part of the project. I included bright colors, big letters, and clear information about when and where people could donate. We hung it in places where people would easily see it, such as information boards in my condo. The poster helped bring in even more books, and it felt great to know that my work was paying off.

Once all the books were collected, we brought them to a Scout meeting to be sorted. This was one of my favorite parts of the entire project. Together, we organized the books into different age groups – books for young children, middle-grade readers, and teens. Sorting them helped us make sure that everyone in the community could find something they would enjoy. It was amazing to see how many books we had gathered.

After everything was organized, we delivered the boxes of books to a community library. There, we placed the books neatly on the shelves so that anyone could pick them up and read them. Knowing that many different people would enjoy the books made the whole project feel meaningful. It was rewarding to imagine someone discovering a story they loved because of our effort.

Overall, the book drive was a wonderful experience. I enjoyed every part of it – collecting, organizing, sorting, and giving the books to the library. It taught me the value of teamwork and helping others. I hope to lead or participate in another book drive again soon because it was not only fun but also made a real difference in the community.

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LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

Caving at....the Singapore Zoo?!

By Kaitlyn C., Troop 82 When my Girl Scout troop told us we’d be abseiling inside a cave at the Singapore Zoo, I figured I knew what to expect. I’m no stranger to caves – since I was five, every time I’ve visited Mexico, you could find me ziplining through them, swimming in their underground pools, climbing through their tight passages, and taking part in more cave activities than most of my friends think is normal. Caves don’t intimidate me. But abseiling? I wasn’t sure; it was something I’d never tried.

But apart from that, the first surprise was the temperature. Singapore is always hot, humid, and sticky – the kind of heat that I was dreading to experience with ten other girls huddled in such close proximity. As I was mentally preparing to suffer through unbearable heat for three hours, I was struck by the… cold. The cave was air-conditioned. Almost unnervingly so. An environment that I felt so familiar with was suddenly altered for robust comfort. It wasn’t necessarily good or bad, just strange – like my brain couldn’t decide whether I was indoors or underground.

It was the kind of strange feeling you get when you see an illuminated LED sign for the toilets beside a giant stalagmite, which somehow made the whole experience something new. I mean, I’d certainly never wait in a queue for the toilet while I was in a cave.

Why? Because it’s a manmade cave – a 220-meter marvel inspired by the ancient caves of Gunung Mulu National Park in Borneo. Singapore mapped a cave there, then 3D printed it here at Rainforest Wild ASIA. Amazing!

While I’d never been abseiling, the instructors started with many basics that I recognized from belaying in rock climbing. But the movements of actually abseiling were utterly different. I had to keep my legs straight and support my own weight rather than someone else’s. It was much more difficult than I expected. All my legs wanted to do was bend and hug the wall, as if I was just rock climbing but in a downwards direction. Abseiling felt unnatural, backwards, almost like learning to climb all over again, but this time in reverse.

When I reached the bottom, I saw the rest of my troop: everyone sweaty, dusty, and cheering on those who went after them. The experience of abseiling in a cave – even though it was a fake cave – felt exciting and new, made a million times better with my troop beside me.

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HEAD SPACE

By Andrea McKenna Brankin

SETTING GOALS TO FILL THAT HEAD SPACE As we kick off a new year in 2026, it’s a good time to check out ways you can up your mental health game. One of the things that has worked well for me in my recovery from Bipolar Disorder is goal setting. Ticking off boxes of things to do, sometimes daily, sometimes weekly or monthly, really helps me feel like I’m committed to my treatment plan and making progress along the way.

For this, I start with lists. I used to write these things down in a notebook so I could refer to and reflect on the items. Nowadays, I type notes and reminders on my iPhone.

Rather than putting pressure on myself to perform, these lists are good reminders to focus on what really matters: my well-being.

Why does making a list work? Because making lists and checking off goals triggers a dopamine reward cycle. It increases control, strengthens confidence, reduces overwhelm, and builds momentum through small, achievable wins. It boosts mental health in several scientifically grounded – and very human – ways.

For me, ticking off items is key to feeling successful; hence, creating a list I can knock off as I go along. My list might look like this for a month: • Go to one sound healing at One Heart • Lift weights twice a week • Get one jog in per week • Book with Health Coach Amanda at Lift Clinic • See Dr. Eugene for meds and consult • Start Daily Om meditation course, one lesson per week The list helps to increase my sense of control and reduces my anxiety. It also encourages me to be intentional with my time and builds self-confidence.

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Drilling down for a daily task list, it might look like this: • Do a five-minute meditation • Review upcoming classes for teaching preparation • Hydrate 2500 ml with electrolytes • Take fish oil to improve mood A daily task list can also be broken down further into micro-tasks. This can help larger goals or tasks feel more doable, preventing that paralysis that sometimes comes along with anxiety. Achieving micro-tasks helps to build momentum to keep you going and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

I always say nothing will change if you don’t change it. Writing lists for goal setting won't complete itself. You really have to

find the drive to do it. My feeling is that reviewing the lists helps me plan my days, weeks, and months better so I can accomplish some of these things. And if they don’t get done, well, maybe you strike them from the list because it’s too lofty a goal, or you need more time. Just put that task on another list farther out or wait for a better time.

Even though it seems cliché to kick off new habits in a new year, you have to ask yourself, WHEN am I actually going to DO SOMETHING? You have to want this. You have to want to attain these goals. Set your intention for 2026, start your lists, and take it one day at a time. If every day you can feel some small success, that will build into bigger successes, and it sets you up for a great year.

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

LIVING SINGAPORE STORIES Connecting past and present

By Marc Servos

TRADITIONAL MALAY HOUSE AND ITS DESIGN FEATURES The traditional dwelling in Singapore’s history has been the Malay house, named after the indigenous people here and the Malay Peninsula. This seemingly simple structure, in its traditional form, manifests a vernacular design for a near-perfect house form suitable for the warm, humid climate and the way of life of the inhabitants.

The most distinct feature is the stilts, which elevate the house roughly five to eight feet. Its purpose is to prevent flooding and wild animals and to deter thieves. The added benefit of this feature is catching higher velocity winds, which help keep the inhabitants cool, along with high-insulation and low-thermal materials these dwellings were constructed of; timber or woven bamboo walls, roofed with layers of palm frond thatch known as attap. Large attap overhangs from the roof help provide shading and protection from driving rains. The open interior spaces, with minimal partitions, ventilation grills, and operable windows, provide primary ventilation, plus even more from triangular roof gables and joints called the patah.

with a corridor to the latter; and the kitchen, also known as dapur, located in a separate building. Fixed partitions in the main body are uncommon, but light screens provide privacy. An attic could be used for more sleeping space.

The Malay style also applied to the homes of British colonials in Singapore and Malaya. One style commonly built during the period before World War II is the black-and-white bungalow, named for its whitewashed walls and dark timber beams of Tudor-Bethan architecture. The same design principles also helped to ensure cooling.

Many Malay houses have been orientated to face Mecca, reflecting the Islamic faith of many of their inhabitants. But this orientation has also reduced the exposure to direct solar radiation. Reducing glare is achieved through the use of grills and wooden panels to break sunlight, and the surrounding vegetation and trees help reduce it.

This dwelling is composed of three basic components: the front hall or reception verandah, where guests are received; the main body, which accommodates the private family and sleeping areas,

Air movement for traditional Malay house. Source: The traditional Malay house, rediscovering Malaysia's indigenous shelter system (Lim, 1987).

This traditional Malay house has been on the decline since at least the later decades of the 20th century. Reasons contributing to this include a lowered status for them in society, diminishing resources for attap, bamboo, and free timber, and a lack of skilled workers to erect such dwellings. Many present-day dwellings use brick and concrete walls and glass windows, with zinc and asbestos roofs, resulting in diminished proper ventilation and thermal capacity.

Malay house forms have been used as decorative cultural symbols in many public buildings in the region. Some see these as pseudotraditional and even vulgar, as they lack the vernacular benefits of their predecessors. But these modern versions have nonetheless been popular, being seen as status symbols. Despite the trend, efforts continue to preserve the structures that remain and to inform future generations of the benefits of this type of vernacular design.

Malay campong in Straits Settlement. From The New York Public Library, https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/7316d4d0-c5d2-012f-e405-58d385a7bc34

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Charity Spotlight AAS is proud to have supported The Food Bank Singapore with donations gathered at our Thanksgiving event.

At The Food Bank Singapore, they run several programs to serve their mission to collect food surpluses and redistribute to beneficiaries while advocating for food sustainability through reducing food waste. Some of their key programs include Joy in Every Bundle, Food Drive, Food Bank Boxes, and more. ​

Food Support Programme The Food Support Program is dedicated to providing essential food supplies to families and individuals facing food insecurity. By distributing monthly food rations, they help ensure that beneficiaries have access to nutritious meals, allowing them to focus on other important aspects of their lives.

Food Drive Food Drives are a great way to generate donations for The Food Bank Singapore to ensure a steady supply of food rations. At the same time, this helps to raise awareness on food insecurity and food wastage in Singapore.

Joy in Every Bundle The Joy in Every Bundle program is hasslefree and easy – The Food Bank Singapore stretches every dollar donated to cover the cost of the food items, packaging and logistics costs! As the food items are purchased by The Food Bank Singapore, they work with various food suppliers to ensure that every bundle offered, is value for money.

Food Pantry 2.0 The Food Pantry 2.0 is The Food Bank Singapore’s 24/7 emergency food aid program, utilising automated vending machines to provide essential food supplies to those in need. Beneficiaries receive bank cards loaded with credits, allowing them to select food items from vending machines at various locations, ensuring accessibility at any time.

Juniors Club​ The Food Bank Singapore Juniors Club program builds awareness among the youngest members of the community and involves them in making an impactful, positive social change. Through a range of experiential learning opportunities and a highly engaging curriculum, the young participants develop an understanding of the concept of food insecurity and food sustainability. This empowers them to take informed, purposeful steps towards reducing food waste, and caring for vulnerable communities in our midst.

The amazing AWA volunteers have restarted their food packing duties for Food from the Heart with enthusiasm, motivation, and joy! They were proud to welcome new volunteers to this meaningful activity in coming together to serve the most vulnerable families in Singapore.

Some of the members of AAS' Executive Committee spent a Sunday morning working at Willing Hearts.

They cut up meat and folded bags galore! Willing Hearts provides daily meals and other support services to the underprivileged, the needy, and other marginalized persons in Singapore.

The American Association of Singapore staff had a pawsome morning at OSCAS, spending the day walking and caring for shelter dogs that needed love and attention.

AAS, AmCham, and USA Girl Scouts Overseas hosted a screening of a documentary about Frances Hesselbein, the first CEO of Girl Scouts and recipient of the Medal of Freedom.

Attendees were asked to bring new stationery supplies for Good Shepherd Convent to go to children in need.

HIGHLIGHTING RECENT ACTS BY OUR COMMUNITY

Girls from USA Girl Scouts Overseas (Singapore) collected more than two dozen boxes and bags of gifts for workers from ItsRainingRaincoats. Then the girls wrapped every single gift so that it’d be even more special for the men who receive them!

AAS is a proud sponsor of a tree in the Trees of the World exhibit at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. We had fun decorating our tree and spreading cheer!

Once a week, Swee Chiew Tan assists the trainers during outings and enrichment programs for the adult learners at the Down Syndrome Association.

Siew Wei Ngiam was a mentor for the CV and Interview Skills workshop at Victoria Junior College in November.

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Belonging.

Come check out our brand new elementary school building!

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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

By Amanda Jaffe

Dear Singapore, It’s been a few years since I last saw the sparkle of Marina Bay. I can’t believe you’re sixty! (Of course, I can’t believe I’m sixty-one. And don’t you dare say anything about "age before beauty," okay?)

You wear sixty well, my friend. Then again, you were the one constantly having work done – putting up another age-defying building, endlessly filling in your wrinkles with that process you call "land reclamation." Only you could grow twenty-five percent larger by pouring sand into the sea and still manage to look like you haven’t gained an ounce.

Seriously, Singy, how do you do it?

I wish I had a birthday gift for you, but what do you buy the country that has everything? Besides, you always were the giver in our relationship.

I wasn’t sure what to think of you at first. A baby expat, I landed on your doorstep feeling flush with independence because I’d packed up my life and moved halfway around the world – only to have you declare me DOA. Dependent on Arrival. When you handed me that Dependant’s Pass, I had such mixed feelings. It was just a card. It was a constant reminder that I was, for the first time, dependent on my husband. But it was also my bridge from "just visiting" to "I live here." That Dependant’s Pass was my invitation to your party.

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You gave me new words. I jalan jalaned every jalan and lorong on the pulau, hiked every bukit, makaned at every hawker center. You brought new meaning to old words too. The enthusiasm of "can." The wish-I-could of "cannot." Sure, you gave me lah (let’s admit it – you give everybody lah, lah), but you also gave me shiok and alamak.

And kopi C kosong. I can’t tell you how much I miss kopi C kosong.

You taught me to think of seasons in terms of monsoons. To think of the whoop of the koel bird as my alarm clock. To appreciate the benefit of an occasional gecko in my kitchen. From your vantage point along the Equator, you promised the Northern and the Southern stars. Your nightglow didn’t afford much chance to see them, but that’s okay. Knowing I slept under the stars of two skies was enough.

You may be a city (sorry, a city-state), but you gave me red junglefowl crossing the road, otters tumbling along the river, and hornbills on my balcony. You also gave me nerve-racking macaques in MacRitchie and a wild boar on Pulau Ubin, but we’ll let that go for now. (I’m secretly grateful for them too.)

You taught me to think of everything as a metaphor, even food. Standing in front of a bakery, trying to decide which bun to buy (taro? salted egg?), I understood FOMO. Watching my husband exit a bakery with a bag full of buns, saying, "I couldn’t decide, so I bought one of each," I understood YOLO. When I made the rookie mistake of bringing ondehondeh home instead of eating it on

the spot, I understood the wisdom of glutinous rice – make every moment of expat life count, because it will never be as fresh or as vibrant as it is right now.

You gave me the quotidian familiarities of a neighborhood. My Fruit Guy down the block, who never sold me bananas without asking when I planned to eat them. My Rice and Vegetables Guy, who charged next to nothing for enough rice and vegetables to feed me, my husband, and our refrigerator. ("Good price!" he’d say. "Good food!" I’d reply.) The Chicken Tikka Guy’s Wife, who always sent us home with fresh naan. (Yes, there was a Chicken Tikka Guy too, but we knew who ran the show.)

You gave me friends. Singaporean friends who brought me on their errands, to their favorite places, and into their homes. Expat friends always up for coffee, a talk, or a walk. Writer friends who, even today, help me shape my thoughts into words.

And yes, dear Singapore, you made me a writer.

The day I surrendered my Dependant’s Pass, I cried. I’d come to think of you as home. Part of me still does. Part of me always will.

Happy sixtieth, you gorgeous island.

I’m sure you haven’t changed a bit. I’m sure you’ve changed a ton. You may be a Little Red Dot, but you never failed to share your Big Red Heart.

This article was first published in the September-October 2025 issue of AWA Magazine.

LIVING IN SINGAPORE MAGAZINE

Row, Row, Row Your…

WAIT, WHY IS EVERYONE SO FAST?

By Susan Williams

Since turning 40, I've tried a lot of new things. I picked up tennis during Covid, something I'd always wanted to play but never had the opportunity to learn. After years of playing tennis, I've also started playing pickleball and padel, both natural extensions of tennis as racquet sports (though each has its unique frustrations for a tennis player). As a result, I'm also something of an expert, if I do say so myself, on physios and sports doctors around town.

fitted with a paddle and a life vest, and then it was off to take the boat to the river. The group did a warm-up and stretching session, and we newbies were given a brief 101 on how to paddle before we loaded into the boat and set off.

We hadn't been out on the water long when the team captain announced that the boats would have a little race. The first race was to be 250 meters. One boat, with only six paddlers,

But there's been one thing since living in Singapore that I have always been curious about, but never quite dared to explore, and that's dragon boating. Although it's popular in some parts of the US, I'd never heard of it before moving here. It stayed off my radar for a while, until a good friend started paddling and got deeper and deeper into it. Still, though, I never asked about trying it. I worried it would be too hard or I wouldn't be in good enough shape.

Then came another friend, Christy, who is a member of the American Dragons Singapore (ADS) team, which was started by the American Association of Singapore in 2005.

She mentioned to my friend and co-worker, Nilam, that ADS would be holding a Thanksgiving paddle where anyone could join and try it out. This felt like the right time – I could try it with a friend who would also be new to it, and thanks to all of the aforementioned racquet sports, I finally felt like I'd be in okay enough shape that I wouldn't embarrass myself, or worse, die.

I'd arrived with Christy, thankfully, or I may have gotten completely lost. It seems like it should be easy to find something along a river, but the area where the boats and other gear are kept is a bit tucked away between Nicoll Highway and Stadium Drive. Once we'd arrived, we were

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had a 50-meter advantage. The outrigger canoe (oh yeah, they've also got an outrigger canoe that paddlers can train and race with!), which tends to be faster, and the boat most, if not all, of the new paddlers, including myself, were on, started at 250 meters. And then we were off! We all paddled furiously, but amazingly mostly in sync, which is the key to dragon boating. By the time we crossed the invisible finish line, I was cooked (as the kids say). But I did it! I didn't die!

But oh, we were to do it again! This time, only ("only") 200 meters. The second time was both harder and easier – easier knowing what to expect, but of course, harder because I was already tired. Our boat did even better in the second race, holding our own against the six-person boat. When I talked to my seasoned dragon boating friend later and told her what we'd done, she was shocked. "We usually only do 100 meters for corporate events!" That made me feel better – it's not that I'm out of shape or that it was exceptionally hard for a newcomer. It's just that 250 and 200 meters are actual race distances, and it was my very first time doing it!

As we paddled back to shore, my arms heavy and tired, I thought dragon boating was fun to try, but that it probably isn't for me. I'm not very into endurance sports. Give me strategy and bursts of strength instead. Somehow, though, without really even thinking about it, it started to grow on me, and I found myself itching to go back and do it again.

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So, we'll see – in the new year, you might find me out on the water as often as you'll find me on the courts!

If you'd like to try dragon boating, check out the American Dragons Singapore on one of their newbie days. They are a very welcoming and friendly group, and people of any nationality are welcome to join. It may not be love at first paddle, but you'll never know until you try!

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By Melinda Murphy

My besties are a group of seven women who first bonded when our boys were tiny. In the past 12 years, we've been through thick and thin together and have been fortunate to travel a bit together, too. In fact, we’re all on a girls' weekend as I write this, celebrating birthdays and bidding farewell as two will move out of Singapore this year.

Last night, we got to talking about our first trip together: Rawa Island.

What a magical place it is! That trip was really the true start of these lasting friendships.

Rawa Island is a slice of heaven, simplicity at its best. This idyllic Malaysian island has the kind of beaches you dream about, with white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise water. No pollution. No crowds.

Pure magic for young families.

And the snorkeling! There were so many fish right under the pier. We all got a kick swimming towards the schools of fish, watching them scatter in that crystal clear water. And there were bigger fish further from shore.

None of us were divers, but I know other friends who have traveled to Rawa for diving, which is supposed to be great.

In fact, my friend’s daughter went to Rawa to get certified through our school. Some of us tried paddleboarding, too.

Of course, no resort is complete without a spa, and Rawa’s is perched above the sea with to-die-for views. There’s nothing more relaxing than sipping tea and looking at the ocean after a wonderful body treatment.

Speaking of views, our family also climbed the "mountain" to get a really good look from above. It didn’t take long, but for little kids, it felt like a huge hike.

Our family opted for a simple room, but one of our friends splurged for a higher category, so we all hung out in

The kids' hands-down favorite bit about the island was the water slide. The resort has this massive water slide off the pier that plops you right into that beautiful, clear water. I lost count of how many times my kids went up that very tall ladder, giggling the entire time. It was the best exercise ever – a total joy-maker. In between, they jumped on the trampoline, built sandcastles, buried each other up to their necks, and horsed around in the water.

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her room, enjoying the sunset views.

The bar was also fun with great cocktails and mocktails for the kids. Meals were simple, but yummy. It’s a set meal buffet.

My kids always really love "shopping for breakfast," as my son used to call it.

Something I secretly love is that WiFi is only available in the common areas. That means kids get out of the room and onto the beach. No wails of "I just need to finish this game" or adults trying to finish one last work email. It makes you get out and enjoy the day.

Rawa Island is the sort of place where sweet memories can be made. One of our group has a younger son, and so, when it was time to plan a trip with his friends, she suggested Rawa. They had the same sort of magical experience. It’s perfect for one family or ten. Just go.

GETTING THERE Rawa Island Resort is accessible by private speedboat from the resort's private jetty located next to the main ferry terminal at Mersing, Johor, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from Singapore. The scheduled boat journey takes approximately 30 minutes during good weather. Bookings can be made on their website directly or by contacting the booking office at info@ rawaislandresort.com or +607-799 1205.

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GOAL SETTING FOR GLOBAL CITIZENS

By Deji Okediji

When you first arrived in Singapore, discovering a new city, setting up a new home, and establishing your new routine, there was probably a "new you" lurking about behind the curtain on the periphery of your imagination, waiting to take the center stage of your vision for what the ideal expat life would be. You planned to learn Mandarin, shave a few minutes off your 5k time, sharpen your tennis swing, or survey all of the island’s best hawker-center char kwey tiao. But now, months, years, or even decades later, the end of 2025 brings you (and many like you) a familiar sense of feeling stuck. Your Mandarin is still "马马虎虎 mamahuhu," your tennis lacks flair, and you’ve yet to venture beyond Maxwell Food Centre. If you are hoping that 2026 is the year you will finally bring the new you to reality, then here are a few tools to help you get to where you want to go.

But first, the bad news: Many (if not most) New Year’s resolutions will fall apart faster than the first time you tried kueh pie tee.

According to a survey published by Forbes Health, the average New Year’s resolution lasts only about 3.7 months. The trope of resolutions being cast aside like confetti is so pervasive that Strava dubbed the third Friday of January "Quitter’s Day." Another systematic review found that more than 80% of people who lost weight regained it within a year, and more than 95% returned to pre-diet weight (or more) after three years. But it is not all bad news, and you find data to fit whatever story you seek to write. A widely cited study from the University of Scranton suggests that 19% of Americans successfully keep their resolutions for two years.1 The common culprits undermining the success of our early January commitments include unrealistic expectations and unstable motivation. Often, people pursue unclear goals that may conflate one’s deeper needs with momentary desire or social pressure.

We’ve all had (or been) a friend who resolved to lose ten pounds when in reality they (ie, you) were hoping to recapture the feeling of being in your twenties.

We all know that positive change rarely happens in an instant. It’s usually a slow burn, built on small (burdensome) choices, repeated over time. But with resolutions, we try to trick ourselves into believing that on January 1st (or some other "fresh start"), we hit a reset button that allows us to forget how we got to where we are.

Even worse, we often forget the need for concrete plans, regular reflection, and systems that hold us accountable.

So what to do? Find the Right Framework Amid all of the dreary forecasts for your resolution, the studies suggest that success requires matching the method to the mission.

• For personal finance or other straightforward goals (think building an emergency fund or streamlining your relocation budget), the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) are a solid starting point.

This method, created by consultant George T. Doran, helps convert vague intentions into clear, trackable tasks.

• Longer-term goals, like learning Mandarin or expanding your social comfort zone, may require frameworks built for adaptability and ambition, which are often the best match.

The OKR framework (Objectives and Key Results), pioneered

by Andy Grove and popularized by John Doerr, and the FAST (Frequent, Ambitious, Specific, and Transparent) goals framework, developed by business thinkers Donald Sull and Charles Sull, encourage ambitious, evolving objectives and frequent review – ideal for goals shaped by social context, incremental learning, and cultural integration.

• More ambitious efforts may require a more flexible format.

Health or fitness aspirations, such as jogging through the humid Singapore heat, playing tennis regularly, or maintaining a balanced diet, may lend themselves better to the WOOP method (Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan), developed by psychologist Gabriele Oettingen. WOOP prompts you to envision a desired outcome, foresee personal obstacles, and plan "if-then" responses.

The Date is Just Another Number Don’t put all your hopes on January 1st; it's risky. The date itself carries no talismanic power. Behavioral change tends to require methodical, sustained effort, with room for setbacks and restarts.

So don’t be afraid to fail. The upside of living in Asia – and particularly Singapore – is that if you’ve already fallen off the wagon by Quitter’s Day, there is another New Year right around the corner. Maybe the new you was waiting for the Lunar New Year, or your birthday, or some other date. Alternate milestones give you another chance to make a "(re)fresh(ed) start." As with so many things in life, personal improvement, too, is more about the journey than the destination.

1Norcross JC, Vangarelli DJ. The resolution solution: longitudinal examination of New Year's change attempts. J Subst Abuse. 1988-1989;1(2):127-34. doi: 10.1016/ s0899-3289(88)80016-6. PMID: 2980864.

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FINDING LOVE IN THE LION CITY

By Kay Yin (@thisiskaykhy)

Anyone who has recently crawled out of their cave will notice that the world has mutated into something barely recognizable. The apps. The new vocabulary. The social-media universe where reality and hallucination blend into a strange cocktail nobody ordered.

Singapore isn’t any different – just add more anecdotes, more variety, and more unsexy practicalities like HDB eligibility, rental fees, or rising cost of that French wine you always order. Whether you’re local or expat, these things somehow sneak into the romance equation.

Once upon a time, you met someone at work or at your best friend’s wedding. You exchanged glances, tested the waters, pretended not to care, cared anyway, and did the whole "are we serious or are we playing games" routine before graduating to actual dating.

Maybe marriage. Maybe kids. Maybe life, in whatever order fate felt like assigning that day. Since we’re talking about dating here, I’ll spare you everything that comes after. That requires an even gentler hand with my words.

The best part of dating has always been the beginning. The spark. The chase.

The butterflies. The sweet anxiety. The temporary madness. Not so much the heartbreak that follows, but hey, that’s part of the package – and if you’re lucky, you get to experience the whole thing a few times. It’s basically a National Geographic mating documentary, just with more clothes and worse communication.

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Fast-forward to 2025. If you buried your head in the sand for a while, you might have woken up thinking someone swapped your life for a streaming show. Is this a new season of The Bachelor, or did you just get painfully out of touch?

Enter the era of apps. Tinder launched the swipe life. Bumble let women go first. Hinge sold itself as the "thoughtful" option. Coffee Meets Bagel lured in the "serious" crowd. Every other country has its own version in its own language, but the formula is the same. Scroll through photos. Skim (or ignore) profile blurbs.

Decide in seconds whether this stranger "might be the one" based on a filtered headshot, a borrowed pet, or a quote that may or may not have been generated by AI. And let’s not forget the heartbreakingly handsome scammers who try to sell you crypto or some unfathomable investment scheme.

"situationship," "casually serious." Dating begins to feel like tiptoeing through a landmine field you never knew existed – one that requires equal parts luck, calculation, and the occasional ghosting survival strategy.

Locals and expats suffer the same modern-dating malaise. Singapore is organized, safe, and convenient – but the dating scene? That’s another ecosystem.

Add the transient nature of expat life – jobs end, visas expire, people rotate out – and suddenly every match feels time-sensitive. You wonder whether to sprint toward connection or keep things breezy before one of you gets shipped off to Dubai, Hong Kong, or some other tax-friendly island.

Anthropologists would say the modern mating ritual eventually collapses in on itself. The more you swipe, the more numb you feel. Every match starts to resemble a lottery ticket with terrible odds. Every date demands a strange mix of hope and emotional hazard control.

And somewhere between optimism and eye-rolling, you find yourself using words like "love bombing,"

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Then there’s the offline world: social clubs, gyms, running groups, tennis or pickleball matches, and networking circles – all the places where people proclaim "real connections" happen.

And sometimes they do. Sometimes you meet someone who brings the butterflies back. Sometimes you meet someone who makes you want to delete every app on your phone. And sometimes you meet someone who reminds you exactly why those apps exist in the first place … and suddenly you’re re-downloading all of them again.

dating here feels like an emotional obstacle course – pretty much the same battlefield you’ll find in any major global city where everyone is smart, attractive, ambitious, and somehow still jaded. People tiptoe around pride, try not to get fooled for the tenth time, and navigate social or cultural cues nobody knew existed until right now. Not impossible, just memorable. A little chaotic. Often unintentionally funny. And every now and then, surprisingly heart-warming.

Your dating-guru friend insists you should do it the traditional way – smile at the cute person at the bar, make the first move, send the signal. You know the drill, yet you still freeze like an ice sculpture and think, "Should there be an actual course on how to talk to a real person?" So you take the middle route when Instagram ads push you toward a "Timeleft" dinner with five strangers because "you never know – life is short, and one of them might be your person."

Funny how you’ve already seen two of them on Bumble. To be fair, though, once you finally run out of excuses and force yourself to try these obvious routes, you do sometimes meet genuinely amazing people.

And when the apps drain the last drop of your emotional energy, many locals turn to matchmaking agencies with earnest names like "Lunch Actually" and "Lovestruck." They boast thousands of successful dates and promise marriageready matches – usually the sensible, traditional type who still lives with their parents and fits the local ideal. And let’s be honest: the whole point is to steer you toward marriage as quickly and neatly as possible. Sometimes the match plays out like a Disney movie. Other times, you’re smiling politely, claiming you "really need to hop on a 2 pm call," while quietly planning your escape through the shiny MBFC towers and wondering why you ever paid that membership fee in the first place.

Everyone is driving with their own set of rules. Intentions zigzagging. People merging, swerving, taking different exits. Maybe you end up in the same lane, maybe you don’t. Or maybe the next me you see them is in a wedding announcement – another tiny boost for Singapore’s everurgent birth-rate mission.

Can love actually find us? With the way things are going, it’s no shock that more people choose to stay single, gather the courage to part ways, or simply decide that peace is far more appealing than romantic chaos. Singapore has its charms, but

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Expat or local, everyone starts out hopeful, gets a little discouraged, but somehow keeps going. Because deep down, we’re all after the same thing – that little spark that makes this lightheaded, confusing dating scene feel worth the effort.

Sometimes it just takes adjusting your mindset and tweaking your strategy a bit: pace yourself with the apps instead of mindless swiping, meet people in real life even if it feels awkward, keep your expectations realistic, and hold back from handing your heart to the first person who manages a decent text conversation without vanishing into a three-day void. A little clarity about what you actually want also goes a long way – whether that’s a real long-term connection or simply someone to share a few dinners with and see where the spark goes. With a few small shifts, even the chaos of the 2025 dating scene can start to feel a little kinder and, surprisingly, more genuine.

(Inspired by very real conversations with very real people.)

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NETWORKING

TO MAKE AND KEEP FRIENDS

By Richard Hartung

Whether you’re settling in as a new arrival in Singapore or looking for a job or want to make new friends after old friends have left Singapore, networking is essential. For many people, though, networking seems daunting. My mentee panics when she hears the word. By rethinking what it is and how to do it, networking can become enjoyable and beneficial.

NETWORKING IS A FANCY WORD FOR BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS AND RELATIONSHIPS Networking is, very simply, making connections and building relationships. For people looking for a job, networking can help them learn about the latest trends, find a role that may not even be advertised, and make good career decisions.

Newcomers can link up with people for advice on settling in.

Longtime residents can expand or renew a circle of friends and learn something new.

Rethinking what networking is might be beneficial. Say the word "networking," and many people think it means getting out of their comfort zone, enduring endless meetings or events that require them to work hard to meet people they may not want to connect with.

In reality, it’s just a way to meet interesting people and build new relationships with people who may become friends or colleagues. Most people are happy to have lunch or coffee with friends. Look at networking the same way. The worst case is usually a half-hour-long boring conversation. The best case, which happens more often, is an enjoyable chat that leads to learning, a new opportunity, and potentially a longterm connection.

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HOW TO NETWORK As writer Ann Benoff puts it, "you get points for pushing yourself to join activities when what you really want to do is spend the day on the couch. The mere act of showing up means overcoming overt avoidance. You also need to bury your covert avoidance, which happens when we show up physically but check out mentally."

So, what do you do and where do you show up?

For a start, follow the advice of HR firm Michael Page: "Be prepared. Set a target. Don’t have a set agenda. Be a good guest. Talk and listen. Give referrals. Manage time."

Realize that you probably already have at least a small group who can introduce you to new contacts. As experts at Princeton University describe it, "Networks do not just consist of high-powered people. Rather, networks consist of people we know, people they know, and people we make an intentional effort to get to know." Ask people you know about whom else you should meet.

One of the best ways to meet and connect with people is to do activities you like with them. You can look online or use AI. In Singapore, you can find the Nature Society, churches, college alumni associations, sports clubs, and a multitude of other groups for almost any activity you like. The American Association of Singapore, for example, has activities for freelancers, running enthusiasts, amateur athletes, and more.

When you show up, having a common interest will make it easier to start a conversation. And show up more than once.

As you start to see the same people when you participate regularly, you’ll naturally build relationships.

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LinkedIn and other social media can also be ways to find people and groups. Find groups that interest you, join discussions, or participate in events they organize.

When you talk with people you know or meet, ask for two other people to meet. Shortly after I moved to Singapore, the company I was working for started closing down, so I needed to find a new job. As a newbie, I knew perhaps half a dozen people well enough to explain my situation. I reached out, chatted with them over coffee, asked for the names of two people I should meet, and then met two more people. Within six weeks, I met 65 people and had three job offers. While my situation was unusual, the same concept applies when you want to meet a few people or dozens more.

Before you get together with a person or a group, prepare by thinking about topics you can talk about or ask about. When you meet someone, be curious, ask casual questions, listen deeply, and follow up. Talk about something you have in common.

KEEPING THE CONNECTION IS IMPORTANT Meeting someone once is enjoyable. To build a relationship, though, you’ll need to keep the connection going. Following up is the key to developing longer-term relationships rather than fleeting connections.

It’s better to meet more than once. If you’ve met an individual, send them a message on WhatsApp or an email and follow up. After a few weeks, you can schedule a time to meet again over coffee or lunch. You can connect on WhatsApp or other social media and send them a message every once in a while.

If you want a group activity, keep going for several months and continue if you like it, or drop out if you don’t. One thing to keep in mind is that you can always drop out of a group if you find that it’s not for you. That mindset alone may make it easier for you to show up a few times.

While networking may sound difficult, it’s most often easier than you think, and it can literally turn your life around for the better.

Looking for a place to start networking? Check out the American Association of Singapore's Freelancers, Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners coffee, held monthly, or the men's group, Thirsty Eagles!

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NEW CITY, NEW TRICKS

By Christina Liew, @word.nerding

There is nothing like moving across the world to throw open the doors to selfdiscovery and personal reinvention. After the jet lag fades and you acclimatize to the temperature and humidity, you might find yourself with the (good) problem of having time on your hands and an overwhelming number of activities to try in Singapore. So where do you begin?

What do you sign up for first?

I asked myself those same questions years ago when I first arrived and realized this: There are no wrong answers! Your journey might look completely different from mine, but our shared goal as expats is to make our time in Singapore fruitful.

Some things you try might be one-anddone. But you might just find a few lifelong hobbies, or even inspiration for a new career. So take that first step and grab hold of what your new city has to offer.

Here are a few suggestions to explore: Ballet I did not foresee ever stepping back into a leotard and tights after my stint in after-school programs. But there I was at Singapore Ballet’s adult beginner class, happily re-learning how to plié. The instructors were professional dancers with the company, patiently turning out our feet and correcting our postures.

Don’t worry if you are a total beginner; most of the students in my class had no background in dance but kept pace admirably. All ages and fitness levels are welcome!

Coffee Did you know that coffee is actually an emulsion of tiny particles dispersed in water and oil? I didn’t either! After an introductory course with Bettr Barista Coffee Academy, I can now pull a shot of espresso in 20-30 seconds and create recognizable latte art. Bettr Barista began as a social enterprise and is now a leading training hub in the region for aspiring coffee masters. It is also great fun for those of us who simply love coffee and want to learn basic techniques.

Acting I learned that the most important response in improv theatre (and perhaps in life) is "Yes, and…" Those two simple words taught me to hold space for new possibilities and to better hear other people’s ideas. They also helped me permit myself to be creative and to enjoy the freedom of play. In addition to improvisation skills, there are workshops at Haque Centre for Acting and Creativity (HCAC) on using your voice better, oncamera work, and physical movement. It is the first center in Asia to teach the Lee Strasberg method of acting.

Parkour Confession: I had no idea what parkour was before my first class at Superfly Monkey Dragons. A friend of mine wanted to learn, so she brought me along for additional courage. Who knew that traversing a low wall or leaping sideways over a handrail took so much agility and core strength? The instructors made it look easy, but I definitely finished the session with some bruised shins. I gained a whole new level of respect for parkour athletes. This one is definitely not for the faint of heart!

Cooking I was a reasonably competent home cook, but I knew nothing about Peranakan or other regional cuisines when I first

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arrived in Singapore. Through learning the basics of grinding rempah and shredding coconuts, I learned to love the flavors and textures of Nonya, Thai, and Indian food. I found unhurried, spacious kitchens where I can learn, ask questions freely, and not feel bad about making a mess. Cooking (and eating) is always a joyful way of immersing yourself in a new culture!

Check out classes at Palate Sensations.

Urban Farming I do not have a green thumb. I have a tortured history with the heartiest of house plants. But I have somehow managed to grow delicious microgreens and herbs over the years, which I harvest and eat with glee. As a lifelong city dweller, I’ve truly enjoyed learning how to care for plants and how to grow nutritious food sustainably. Don’t know where to begin? Edible Garden City offers subscription boxes, tours, and workshops, including family- and children-focused options.

Self Defense Many years ago, I was introduced to Qin YunQuan, the woman who started Kapap Academy. She teaches martial arts and street combative, but she is most passionate about self-defense for women.

I learned that having better situational awareness and personal readiness are basic skills everyone should have, regardless of where we live or travel.

Being more street smart is always a good thing! Kapap Academy offers all-female classes and courses for kids.

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OVERCOMING EXPAT OBSTACLES

By Tiara Giles

How do you deal with unexpected changes while living abroad? I don’t mean something like "Oh, I decided to move to a different house," or "The train station I like shut down." I mean something that really turns your world upside down and causes you to act fast.

Damage control has been activated!

Well, that happened to me.

I unexpectedly had to leave Singapore because I finally took a leap of faith to leave teaching. Teaching is a great career. It’s steady, the students are amazing, and you can teach almost anywhere in the world. However, I never felt like it was for me. So, after a terrible heartbreak, I started applying for jobs. I finally got an offer for a nonteaching job and thought everything was going my way.

Unfortunately, things crashed three weeks before I was supposed to start my new job. That job didn’t go forward because I didn’t want to work what would essentially be two, full-time jobs.

I couldn't go back to my old job because they'd already found a replacement. So I had three weeks to either find a job or leave the country since my visa had been canceled.

We all know how the job market is and how the visa process goes. I'd have to leave the country regardless.

I was freaking out. I was distraught. I was overwhelmed. I felt like I had lost so many friends during this time, as they didn't want to talk to someone who had to leave Singapore. It was like I was only their friend when it was convenient for them.

But thankfully, I had a community in Bali, Indonesia, and the idea of moving to Bali in the future came to me after the terrible breakup. So it was a nobrainer.

Solution: Move to Bali to save money while I search for a new job.

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It turned out to be the best last-minute decision I had ever made. I could've moved to any other country to save money and find a job. But I chose Bali for the people (and of course the beaches).

If you're wondering whether I found a job, I did. It's still teaching, but the environment I'm in is great, and I have a clearer idea of what I want to do after teaching. I'm in a place where I can actually achieve that goal.

The stress I felt working in Singapore rolled off within weeks, my eczema cleared up, and I learned a lot more about myself and my personal strength.

I realized I had moved abroad twice. A third time would be easy.

No matter how tough and unexpected things get when you're traveling, you'll get through it. You're a lot stronger than you think you are.

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THE ART OF LETTING GO: CREATING SPACE FOR WHAT’S TO COME

By Pedrinha Furtado

Every new beginning first starts with an ending.

There are countless books by psychologists and researchbased articles that explore this in depth. But what I’m sharing here is drawn from my own experience, nothing clinical, nothing technical.

Simply the lessons I’ve learned over the past five years while trying to heal and become a better version of myself.

Letting go is not instant. It’s not overnight. For some, it may take months; for others, like me, it may take years. And truthfully, it continues throughout life, evolving as you grow and life changes around you. Before we can welcome what’s next, we must gently release what no longer serves us – the old stories, the expired dreams, the versions of ourselves that once kept us safe but now keep us small.

Letting go is one of life’s quietest yet most powerful acts of courage. It’s rarely dramatic.

It’s not a grand goodbye, or a sudden moment of enlightenment. It’s the pause after a long sigh, the decision to stop checking the phone, the moment of truth when you finally admit, "This chapter is complete."

We often hold on because we think it keeps us safe. The familiar, even when painful, provides certainty.

A relationship, a job, a city, a title.

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They all become mirrors reflecting who we believe we are.

When we release them, it can feel like we’re losing a part of ourselves. But clinging to what’s finished only fills our hands with the past, leaving no room for what’s waiting to arrive.

Growth requires emptiness. An open field where new life can take root, or a blank canvas waiting for the artist to begin again.

Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting. It doesn’t mean the past didn’t matter. It means loving something enough to set it free, trusting that what’s meant for you will return in a truer form or make space for something far better.

Nature models the seasons effortlessly. Trees shed their leaves not because they’ve stopped growing but because they’re preparing for renewal. The letting go is not the end; it’s preparation. Our inner lives have seasons, too. There are seasons of abundance, where everything blooms beautifully, and seasons of shedding, where life asks us to release.

Instead of resisting those quieter phases, what if we honored them? What if we allowed stillness to do its invisible work?

The profound healing that takes place when we simply stop fighting ourselves.

Letting go isn’t failure. It’s faith and hope. It’s the quiet belief that life knows what it’s doing, even when we don’t. Letting go is both an action and an attitude. A daily surrender, a conscious softening. These gentle practices of release can help cultivate it.

1. Declutter intentionally Start with something small, one item, one drawer, one digital folder, one email, even one lingering thought. Each release sends a quiet but powerful message: "I’m creating space for what matters."

You can feel the energy shift almost immediately.

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It’s the same feeling when we prep our homes before Christmas, knowing the warmth of family, laughter, and celebration is about to fill the space.

2. Journal your goodbyes Sometimes the hardest thing to let go of is the version of ourselves we have already outgrown. Write a letter to what you’re releasing: a person, a habit, a memory, a former version of yourself. Thank it for what it taught you, how it shaped you, and what it once meant to you. Then lovingly let it go. For me, I would write the words, reread them, cry if needed, and then destroy the letter. There is something cathartic about watching the story end in your own hands.

3. Breathe through resistance Easier said than done, but essential. When emotions rise, resist the instinct to overthink. Just BREATHE. The body knows how to release long before the mind gives permission.

In one of my hardest seasons, I cycled 120km in 8 hours around the island. I didn’t do it to be "strong" or "disciplined." Movement was the only way to breathe through the feelings I couldn’t yet articulate.

4. Create rituals of closure Endings deserve ceremony, no matter how small. Light a candle, sit in silence. Or create your own rituals. I would take slow walks through the Singapore Botanic Gardens, where my grandfather spent years as a

botanist. Or quiet moments by the sea, eyes closed, letting waves wash against my feet, reminding me that life renews endlessly. These simple rituals tell your spirit, gently but firmly: "It’s okay to move on."

The space between endings and beginnings feels uncomfortable at first because it’s undefined. The mind craves clarity, direction, and certainty, but transitions offer none. And yet, this space is where miracles take shape. It’s where clarity whispers softly, before the next step becomes visible. It’s not rushed. So when life asks you to pause, when you find yourself between what was and what is not yet, trust that something unseen is rearranging itself for your highest good.

What feels like loss today may one day reveal itself as liberation. The empty hands you have now are not a void; they are open hands, ready to receive.

Eventually, without noticing the exact moment it happens, you will feel the shift. The ache softens. The air feels lighter.

The tightness in your chest loosens. Grief melts into gratitude for what once was and for everything that is still becoming.

You look around your life, your home, your routines, your heart, and realize that the space you cleared has been quietly filling with peace. And you’ll recognize something profound.

What you’ve been searching for has been within you all along. PEACE, FREEDOM, and the COURAGE to begin.

Letting go isn’t the end of your story; it’s the turning of the page, and the next chapter may reveal a version of yourself you’ve been longing to meet.

Wherever life finds you today, here’s to your new, beautiful beginning. May it surprise you in all the right ways.

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Hot Hobbies in Singapore

By Aimee @littleluxurylist

What hobbies have you picked up recently?

I’ve become partial to a few classes, including ballet (many, many years after I first took classes!). But I’ve heard of people picking up some really interesting hobbies lately. The new year may be the best time to try out a new hobby.

These are some of the hottest hobbies in Singapore.

Pickleball This 60-year-old sport has really surged over the last five years and appeals to people across age groups and fitness levels. This easy-to-pick-up sport was invented by three dads – Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. It combines elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis.

The paddles are similar to ping-pong paddles that hit a plastic ball, like a Wiffle ball.

Pickleball has grown rapidly, not only because it is easy to play but also because the courts are relatively small. An official pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, with a seven-foot non-volley zone (the "kitchen") on each side of the net. Singapore has embraced Pickleball, with courts available at most ActiveSG hubs. In 2026, the Little India bus terminal will transform into a Pickleball hub. Book any of these eight courts by balloting as early as 14 days before play or on a first-come, first-served basis for off-peak hours.

Adult Improv Have you ever dreamed of performing on stage? It’s never too late, and you can do it without learning any lines or songs when you’re performing improv. Improv is a type of live performance created spontaneously by actors on stage without any script. Short-form is limited to scenes or games based on audience suggestions or rules. Long-form will involve a full-length play or musical.

Improv isn’t all about cracking jokes; it also helps you improve your active listening, sense of commitment, and adaptability. Check out troupes like The Improv Company.

Source: The Improv Company

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Cold Plunge Are you looking to rest and recover tired muscles? Then a cold plunge may be for you. Beginners start at 55–60°F (13–15.5°C) for two to three minutes, while intermediate users can aim for (39–50°F / 4–10°C) for five to ten minutes; people may start at very cold temperatures for a few minutes, moving to slightly warmer temperatures for an additional few minutes. Consistency is valued more than duration.

Cold plunging is touted as a recovery and wellness practice available to people at all levels. Some people may take cold plunges after every workout to reduce inflammation and delayed response muscle soreness. It also activates brown fat, which helps the body speed up metabolism. It may also reduce endorphins and promote better sleep. Check out cold plunge facilities in Singapore, including Cold Plunge SG and the Ice Bath Club.

Pole Dancing Who would have thought pole dancing would become popular in Singapore? Pole dancing classes have popped up here in our Little Red Dot as a fun way to build strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Pole isn’t as free and easy as it may look. It can be fun but also technical, requiring shoulder and core stability and a good amount of strength conditioning.

People try out pole for its fun, spinning aspects, but build up their strength and confidence along the way. Check out Pole at larger dance studios like Milan Pole Dance Studio or the new Noir Collective.

Pottery Looking to get your hands dirty but don't have space for a garden? Try a pottery class! It's easy enough to start off making a small bowl or pot, and you can work your way up to more complex pieces. The hands-on nature lets you feel connected to your work, and who doesn't miss the days when you could play in the mud and make whatever came to mind?

It's a great way to find some peace and calm after a long week. And the best part? If you mess up or decide you don't like it, you can ball up the clay and start all over again!

Pottery studios have been springing up around town. A few to check out are Am I Addicted to Pottery Studio, Clay Clay Pottery, and Dirty Hands Only.

Whatever you might choose to try out this year, it's never too late to learn something new!

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PUZZLE PAGE Explore, solve, and see what discoveries you make.

MINI CROSSWORD

Across

Down

1. Augments 5. Loose sleeveless cloaks 9. State again 10. Anagram of "Seal" 11. Coagulate 12. Religious splinter group 13. American Medical Association 14. Not against the law 16. Cow sound 18. Harlot 21. Not difficult 23. Insubstantial 24. Fleece 25. Froth 26. Despise

1. God of war (Greek mythology) 2. Expunge 3. Revealed 4. Vermont or Ohio for example 5. Circle fragment 6. Musical instrument with 3 strings 7. "Smallest" particle 8. Stiff hair or bristle 15. Embarrass 16. Untidyness 17. Hawaiian island 19. A legal instrument 20. Unit of force 22. Affirmative

SPOT 8 DIFFERENCES

FIND YOUR WAY FORWARD

SUDOKU

Start

End

Join AAS! Have fun.

Make friends.

Give back.​

Have fun at our annual major events!

George Washington Ball Fourth of July Celebration Fall Fest Thanksgiving Toys for Tots And so much more!

Make friends through our monthly events, including Thirsty Eagles, Freelancers & Entrepreneurs, Young Professionals, and our own softball and flag football teams!

Give back through regular volunteer opportunities and fundraising events.

Members receive exclusive pricing on AAS events, discounts at local businesses, and access to join our sports teams. www.aasingapore.com

American Association of Singapore is all about fun and connection!

GO

FURTHER At Dover Court, success is measured not by who goes furthest, but by how many go further than they ever imagined - including to top universities.

www.dovercourt.edu.sg +65 6775 7664 admissions@dovercourt.edu.sg Dover Court International School (Pte) Ltd is registered with the SkillsFuture Singapore Agency (SSG) PEI Registration No: 197100313E | Registration Period: 05/07/2023 to 04/07/2027

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