Destinations
ARTBOX AVENUE poised to offer unparalleled lifestyle experience for all to enjoy
Get ready to kick off 2024 with an exhilarating burst of excitement! Forget about those New Year’s resolutions and gear up for the spectacle of ARTBOX AVENUE, Singapore’s largest indoor all-day night festival. As visitors step into the Singapore Expo Hall 2, they will be treated to a vibrant and bustling city, with each corner filled with different zones and experiential activities to guarantee a memorable time.
With tickets starting at $6 per person and featuring more than 300 retail and F&B vendors, the excitement unfolds over two consecutive weekends from January 26th to 28th and February 2nd to 4th, this year’s instalment is set to dazzle visitors from all ages and around the world.
ARTBOX AVENUE is not just an event; it’s an immersive celebration of global culture, a feast for the senses, and an experience that will leave a lasting imprint on every visitor. It boasts a tantalising array of international delicacies and not only that, transforms into a global shopping experience featuring artisanal boutiques and retailers from across borders. Moreover, captivating performances by both local and international artists will set the stage for an immersive celebration of global culture at ARTBOX AVENUE. This showcases ARTBOX’s pioneering role in shaping a unique lifestyle and cultural experience within Singapore’s festivals and events industry.
Expressing his excitement about ARTBOX AVENUE, Kent Teo, Founder and CEO of Invade shared “We envisioned this year’s instalment to be an immersive journey into the heart of global culture, where vibrant experiences and limitless creativity converge. Our commitment to providing a platform for businesses and artists to shine is unwavering. ARTBOX AVENUE 2024 will feature a diverse range of vendors that reflect the global celebration of culture, diversity, and the universal language of the arts.”
Attracting over 60,000 visitors last year, ARTBOX is now geared up to elevate and make it even more memorable for all. Partnering up once again with SGAG as the co-organiser, the event ensures an integration of vibrant creativity and engaging experiences. With an emphasis on curated experiences in the realms of F&B, retail, and performing arts, this year’s instalment promises an unforgettable journey for all visitors.
HEPMIL Media Group Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Adrian Ang (@sgagxiaoming) takes on the Beam of Pain in ARTBOX 2023
At the SGAG stage, stand a chance to win $888 in cash as visitors will be treated to a riot of fun and pain with the all-new electrifying Hopscotch of Pain challenge. Participants have to hop on one leg and cross a beam covered in acupuncture mats, channelling the classic hopscotch game but with a hilarious, painful twist.
But that’s not all – brace for the adrenaline rush with two fresh competitions: the National Piak Cockroach Championship in week 1 and the National Water Bottle Tornado Championship in week 2, where the best contenders will pocket $888 in cash prizes in each thrilling event.
In anticipation of the opening of ARTBOX AVENUE, Adrian Ang, HEPMIL Media Group Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer said “We are thrilled to be back again for ARTBOX AVENUE, adding a whacky and humorous twist to the event we all know and love today. Visitors can expect much more challenging competitions at our SGAG stage and walk away with cold hard cash!”
Transforming Spaces Through Art
Renowned graffiti artist and Illustrator hailing from Malaysia, Cloakwork (@cloakwork on Instagram) will be stepping into the spotlight at ARTBOX AVENUE. With his distinctive style that seamlessly blends street art with storytelling, Cloakwork is set to transform a dedicated space into an immersive showcase of his vibrant and captivating artwork.
Another distinguished Malaysian artist, MonKiddo (@itsmonkiddo on Instagram), is poised to captivate visitors through the creation of captivating artwork at the Central Avenue of ARTBOX. From intricate detailing to vibrant compositions, MonKiddo’s contribution to ARTBOX AVENUE is set to be a focal point, inviting visitors to witness the intersection of imagination and artistic brilliance within the dynamic landscape of this year’s festival.
Retail Revelry: From Trendsetting Fashion to Artisanal Finds
Some participating brands from Thailand, from left to right: Loma.Whale, Outerouter and rust brand (Photos courtesy of Instagram)
ARTBOX AVENUE will turn into a bustling marketplace and retail haven, where international and local artisans from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and South Korea will showcase their wares to offer a truly unique retail experience. From trendsetting fashion to traditional crafts, the festival will be a treasure trove of eclectic finds.
In addition to satisfying your international retail cravings, ARTBOX AVENUE proudly showcases a diverse array of homegrown talents, including beloved brands like Talking Toes (@talkingtoesofficial on Instagram), renowned for their iconic funky socks, and Maverick Made (@maverick_made on Instagram), offering an exquisite selection of handcrafted leather goods. These local gems add a touch of homegrown flair to the eclectic shopping experience that awaits.
International Flavours Take Center Stage
Some participating brands from Singapore, from left to right: The Swag Social, The FAB FIVE and K Ō B A S H Ī (Photos courtesy of Instagram)
Indulge your taste buds as popular F&B vendors from around the region come to create a global feast for ARTBOX AVENUE. Whether you enjoy the savoury aromas of Thai cuisine, an eclectic mix of South Korean street food or local delights with a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavours, there is surely something for everyone.
For visitors with a sweet tooth and who like to get their hands ‘dirty’, the renowned chocolatier Janice Wong will be hosting an indulgent painting workshop, where you can transform sweet canvases into edible masterpieces. During this immersive experience, participants will have the chance to delve into the artistry of chocolate-making under the expert guidance of Janice Wong’s team, discovering the secrets behind their signature confections.
Harmony Across Borders: International Performing Arts and Entertainment Showcase
From left to right: Jocelyn Ng, Singaporean Violinist, Spruce Teo, Singaporean Saxophonist and The Parkinson, a pop band hailing Thailand (Photos courtesy of Instagram)
Be captivated, moved and entertained by the enchanting performances from local talents such as the mesmerising Jocelyn Ng, a virtuoso violinist, and the soulful Spruce Teo, a talented saxophonist.
Thailand’s own musical maestros, The Parkinson, will also mark its presence as they take the stage on the first Saturday of ARTBOX AVENUE, proudly presented by ARTBOX’s Official Lager Beer, Chang Beer.
Visitors are also in for a treat with other onstage live performances by our local music bands Reverie, The Passerby, The Mad Trio and many more! On top of bringing delightful music to the enthused crowd, Chang Beer will also be giving out merchandise and free beer to kick off a perfect year with ARTBOX.
The fun does not stop there – whether you’re a karaoke enthusiast or a first-time crooner, sing your hearts out to your favourite tunes at Teo Heng’s Karaoke-in-a-Container where visitors get a chance to unleash their inner rockstar. This is an excellent opportunity to embrace the spotlight and make memories that resonate long after the music fades.
Not only that, visitors are invited to indulge in a unique chess experience by Aliwal Chess Club, where they can try their hands at creative chess activities that blend intellect with imagination. Beyond the game, explore and take home exclusive merchandise that reflects the artistry of chess. Engage in a hands-on session where you can build your own customised tote bags and as an exciting bonus, participants have the chance to enter the Snap & Win contest, with the grand prize being a custom-made chess table valued at over $800.
Level Up Your Experience with Classic and Virtual Games
Step into the ultimate Gamestop Arena at Open Plaza – home to ARTBOX’s Switch and VR Games. The space invites visitors to play while sinking into comfy seats and immersing themselves into the gaming world– the perfect blend of comfort and playfulness.
In addition, The Arcade People (TAP) takes over the Arcade Alley at ARTBOX AVENUE where visitors get to immerse in a world of classic and modern arcade games that will keep the fun going all day and night. But that’s not all – TAP is bringing the heat with daily challenges throughout the two weekends of ARTBOX that allow daily top scorers to walk away with prizes.
Ticket Prices (inclusive of booking fee):
Pre-Event (from now until 25 January 2024)
General single-admission tickets are from $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends per person
Event (26 January to 4 February 2024)
General single-admission tickets are from $7 on weekdays and $8 on weekends per person
Early Risers 4-pax Bundle (For entries on Fridays, 12 PM slots) are available at $16 (U.P. $23)
For more information, please visit https://www.artbox.sg/
Destinations
Coffee-craving with rice meals on the side at Foam Coffee
The search for a good cup of coffee is what led us to Foam Coffee, which – it must be pointed out – is more of a resto than a café.
Baguio City has always been a must-visit place for foodies, thanks to the many culinary offerings from the Cordillera region (think pinikpikan, etag and binaod, among others). But – whether you agree with us or not, particularly since you may know some venues we don’t – one of the biggest challenges we encountered was looking for good kape.
The search for a good cup of coffee is what led us to Foam Coffee, which – it must be pointed out – is more of a resto than a café.
So, how was our visit to Foam Coffee?
@outragemag Looking for #kape in #FoamCoffee in #Baguio, only to end up eating not-cheap #ricemeals ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine
Una, this is easy to locate, as it’s right across the city hall of Baguio.
Ikalawa, the place itself is sterile-looking. Yep, maaliwalas siya (it’s airy), newly-furnished, is clean, and so on. But when we were there, it also felt quite impersonal, and didn’t feel like a community café or something.
Ikatlo, this is a self-service and CLAYGO (clean as you go) venue. Meaning, you won’t really engage with the staff as they’re there just to take and then give you your order, and then clean up after you if you failed to follow the CLAYGO policy. This adds to the making of this place as impersonal.
And ika-apat, how were the offerings?
So… the original intent was to grab coffee since this was repeatedly highly ranked by reviewers. Alas, the ₱120 Americano was, to start, not even that warm anymore when served. And taste-wise, it was almost like it was watered down.
The rice meals that we ended up also trying were actually not bad. The ₱230 Orange Chicken (orange-glazed chicken with rice) tasted… orangey, sweetish and yet citrusy. The ₱270 Bulgogi Tapa (thinly sliced Korean beef that’s marinated in sweet and salty soy in garlic butter, with rice and eggs), meanwhile, was sweet and savory. The rice in both dishes was good, too; flavorful so that even sans the toppings, already a meal.
For us, if there’s one issue with the rice meals, it’s the size of the servings. Particularly the ulam (viand). You will not get a lot. Which, for us, makes this place a somewhat pricey silog-like venue.
Foam Coffee has a market – e.g. check those who study while there. This is understandable even with the place’s limits. But we’re off elsewhere… perhaps in search of good coffee, as businesses should have if they use the word in their business name.
So off we go in search of more lafangan venues…
Foam Coffee is located at Upper G/F Travelite Hotel, Shuntug St., Baguio City. For more information, contact 0977 602 3750.
Destinations
Faith, fanaticism, and everything in between in Manaoag
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, also known as the Manaoag Church, is quite popular, attracting over 5.73 million visitors in 2024 alone. We #LGBT checked while in search of faith…
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag, also known as the Manaoag Church, is quite popular, attracting over 5.73 million visitors in 2024 alone. But this should not be surprising since this Roman Catholic church in Pangasinan isn’t just a religious site, but is also valuable culturally and artistically.
Here are some observations from us.
@outragemag #LGBT and looking for #faith in #manaoagchurch in #Pangasinan ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine
Una, placed under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan, this place is historical. The original shrine was founded in 1600, with construction of the church started in 1882 and completed around 1911-12.
Ikalawa, there are must-check architectural features – e.g. the central retablo, completed by the Tampinco Atelier of Manila incorporates Baroque columns from the 18th-century altar.
Ikatlo, the late Pope Francis raised the shrine to the status of a Minor Basilica in 2014. This means that it has a special bond with the Pope.
Ika-apat, it is home to the statue of Our Lady of Manaoag, a 17th-century ivory and silver image of the Virgin Mary with the child Jesus. This was brought to the Philippines from Spain via the Manila galleon trade from Acapulco, Mexico by one Padre Juan de San Jacinto.
Miracles attributed to Our Lady of Manaoag are numerous – e.g. the church being saved from the Japanese attacks during World War III, rain during droughts, and so on. Some of these miracles are depicted in murals in the church.
And ika-lima, there are manifestations of the merging of pre-Christian with Roman Catholic beliefs. Outside the church, for instance, there are vendors selling the Sto. Niño with that big phallus, lucky charms along with those anting-anting, and gayuma sold in brown bottles.
No matter the appeal, this isn’t for everyone. For instance, the commercialization of faith is quite blatant (such as the selling of those merch), and it could be a real turn-off. Also, security can be O.A. tight – e.g. there may be times when this could feel unwelcoming, such as when the security guy approached us to enumerate what’s allowed or not allowed inside the establishment. Jesus himself, I’d say, could be questioned in churches like this because of how he looked and how he acted.
But if in the area, you may want to drop by. Particularly since the locality does not have much to offer touristy-wise anyway. Your search for faith can be your key to discovering this historical, artistic and… yeah, religious gem.
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is located on M. H. del Pilar Street, Manaoag, 2430 Pangasinan.
Destinations
In an airy Baguio café via Rebel Bakehouse
When you check lists of places for foodies, many of the same venues are mentioned… and one of those is Rebel Bakehouse. We checked if it’s worth a try.
Baguio City has become a must-visit location for those looking for good – or at least well-promoted – restaurants. But we noted that when you check lists of places for foodies, many of the same venues are mentioned… and one of those is Rebel Bakehouse.
We checked the branch right beside the Baguio Cathedral of Our Lady of Atonement, and… how was it for us?
@outragemag #LGBT checking #RebelBakehouse in #Baguio to ascertain if it's a good alternative to #starbucks, #CBTL ♬ original sound – Outrage Magazine
Una, the place is tricky to find… at least for non-churchgoers. We actually thought it’s in some street parallel to the church; instead, it’s actually right inside the church’s compound.
Ikalawa, if there’s a word to describe the venue, it’s maaliwalas (airy). The venue is divided into spots – e.g. there’s the upper floor, the inside, and the seats outside. Since Baguio City can still get cool, or even cold, open-air din siya, though this also means that flies from outside can (and do) enter the premises.
Ikatlo, the workers are chill. If asked, they can elaborate on what’s being offered; otherwise, if you don’t engage with them, they’re typical café staff… there but not there.
Ika-apat, how was the food? TBH, since we just came from a heavy meal, we just tried some of their breads and drinks.
- The Classic Pain Au Chocolat (₱150) and the Cinnamon Bun (₱180) looked pretty, easily reminding me, personally, of breads in some bakery in Paris. But… taste-wise, they’re not remarkable. We’d go as far as saying that they both tasted the same… just like croissant. The dark chocolate inside the former was, at least, good; but the cinnamon was not even apparent in the latter.
- The kape (₱110), served black, was so-so. I – sadly – really can’t even remember drinking it.
We’re not sure the way to beat Starbucks or Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is to mimic them. Which is how being in Rebel Bakehouse felt like; as if we were in one of the international coffee chains’ branches in Tagaytay. This isn’t to say this is bad… even considering our misgivings with the breads and kape. After all, this is still an okay, and local, option.
Perhaps if we visit again, if at all, we’d try their meals na. But until then, join us as we look for more lafangan venues…
Rebel Bakehouse is located right beside the Baguio Cathedral of Our Lady of Atonement, at CH6X+WM4, Upper Bonifacio St., Baguio City.
Coffee-craving with rice meals on the side at Foam Coffee
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Healthier plant-based diet associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s, other dementias
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Faith, fanaticism, and everything in between in Manaoag
In an airy Baguio café via Rebel Bakehouse
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In an airy Baguio café via Rebel Bakehouse
Microwave frying can help lower oil content for healthier French fries
Faith, fanaticism, and everything in between in Manaoag
Feeling unfulfilled could lead to riskier, heavier alcohol use
Cancer risk is significantly higher for adults who never married, large study finds
Healthier plant-based diet associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s, other dementias
Social support, sleep, pain management linked to mental health in later life
Physical activity and appropriate sleep linked to subsequent lower dementia risk
Coffee-craving with rice meals on the side at Foam Coffee
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Destinations4 weeks agoIn an airy Baguio café via Rebel Bakehouse
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Nutrition4 weeks agoMicrowave frying can help lower oil content for healthier French fries
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Destinations2 weeks agoFaith, fanaticism, and everything in between in Manaoag
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NewsMakers1 week agoFeeling unfulfilled could lead to riskier, heavier alcohol use
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NewsMakers1 week agoCancer risk is significantly higher for adults who never married, large study finds
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NewsMakers1 week agoHealthier plant-based diet associated with lower risk of Alzheimer’s, other dementias
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NewsMakers1 week agoSocial support, sleep, pain management linked to mental health in later life
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Wellness1 week agoPhysical activity and appropriate sleep linked to subsequent lower dementia risk