Weekend Vibes in the New Normal
We’re finally stepping into Phase 1 of Singapore’s reopening after the circuit breaker . But hold up—does that mean the weekend just got a whole lot freer? Spoiler alert: not really. The pandemic is still hanging out around us, so the same basic rules apply.
What’s Still on the Table
- Staying Home— It’s still the safest move. Think of it as the universe’s way of nudging you to practice your indoor marathon.
- Mask‑up— Whether you’re zooming in the office or catching up with friends in the park, let that mask be your sidekick.
- Social Distancing— Keep that little invisible bubble; it’s less creepy and more… practical.
Weekend Plans That Won’t Quit (June 12‑14)
Here’s a quick rundown of fun, safe ways to keep the weekend hustle going. Grab your slippers, because it’s time to fashion the ultimate stay‑home spree!
1. DIY Fitness Meetup
- Turn the living room into a gym—3‑minute warm‑up, 15‑minute HIIT, repeat.
- Invite a roommate or a buddy over Zoom to keep the energy up.
2. Gourmet Lab at Home
- Try one of those “Chef at Home” kits—no meat sprout needed.
- Make your own pasta, sushi, or even a fancy ramen masterpiece.
3. Virtual Museum Safari
- Zoom into the National Gallery or the ArtScience Museum and have a digital scavenger hunt.
- Ask your friends to guess which artwork is the “mystery” piece.
4. Local Green Escape (with precautions)
- Pick a quiet park or nature reserve—prefer the off‑peak hours.
- Remember to bring a mask, hand sanitizer, and a reusable water bottle.
5. Board Games & Movie Marathon (Extra Credit)
- Dust off those classic board games or try a new strategy card game.
- Decide on a theme: rom‑coms or sci‑fi—reimburse anyone who brings popcorn.
Final Word
Sure, life’s still got the same safety checklist, but that won’t keep the good times from rolling. Just mix up your routine, keep it safe, and enjoy the weekend like you always do — with a dash of humor and lots of warmth.
Something you can do
Explore the Shilin Night Market – Your Digital Food Adventure
Calling all Singaporeans: the legendary Shilin Night Market has gone online! Over the next two weekends, you’ll get a front‑row seat to a feast of Taiwanese and regional flavors without leaving your living room.
What’s on the Menu?
- PlayMade – Steam‑powered gaming treats that’ll have you laughing and craving more.
- Taiwan Waffle – Sweet, airy waffles that sneak into your kitchen like a surprise guest.
- Chia Te Bakery – Freshly baked goodies that smell like a nostalgic bakery.
- …and a whole squad of other homegrown brands ready to hit your palate.
Order, Stream, Play
Load up your phone, tap “order,” and the items will arrive at your doorstep faster than you can say “yum!” While the food gets to you, you can browse the virtual stalls, interact with online games that won’t need a joystick, and watch live performances.
Live Performances
- Yokez – The funky beats that keep the night alive.
- Jillian Summers – Sweet pop that’ll soothe your cravings.
- Caryson Huang – The Taiwanese artist who knows how to lift the mood.
Want to see the virtual stalls and feel the buzz? Just follow the link from your social media feed (no need to hit the boring “share” button).
Join the Wan Qing Dumpling Festival – Dig In, Laugh Out
From June 1 to 30, the first-ever digital edition of the Wan Qing Dumpling Festival invites you to discover rice dumplings like never before.
What to Do?
- Play a catch‑the‑dumpling game. The faster you scoop, the higher your dumpling score.
- Take a quiz to reveal your rice dumpling personality – whether you’re a sweet, salty, spicy or savory dumpling.
- Share your results with friends and maybe brag a little.
Curious about which dumpling fits your vibe? Tap the “Click here to find out more” button in your story—no clicks will be missed.
So grab your phone, your appetite, and hit enter the digital world of Shilin’s night market and Wan Qing’s dumpling fiesta. Good food, good vibes, and a dash of humor await!
Something you can watch
Feeling the Commencement Vibe from the Comfort of Your Couch
Think you missed your graduation because the world was on a COVID adventure? Or maybe you’re still holding that diploma a decade later and wonder if that buzz of the ceremony feels a bit, well, out of reach? No worries – the internet has got a straight‑up reel of world‑class speeches that can lift your spirits.
Star‑Studded Commencement Talk on YouTube
Grab your popcorn and get ready to listen to influential, cheeky, and totally inspiring words from:
- Beyoncé – A powerhouse who reminds us that “you’re already a legend” before we even put on a cap.
- Lady Gaga – With a lesson on authenticity and any wig you might have on it.
- BTS – Korean sensations teaching us that “every day you’re doing it right.”
- The Obamas – Former presidents bringing in that classic American hope and opportunity vibe.
- And more!
All these videos live on YouTube, under the banner Class of 2020. Perfect for those who couldn’t touch the tassel but still want that ‘complete it’ feeling.
Why These Speeches Shine
It’s not just about the slick clips. The speeches:
- Provide real‑life inspiration – from fighting adversity to chasing brilliance.
- Let you share the moment with friends, even if they’re peasants.
- Serve as self‑motivated pep talks, especially when your bank account demands a graduation.
Lea Salonga – From Broadway to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra
Next up, a very special treat for those who love music and theatre. If you’re a fan of Lea Salonga (yes, the voice behind the Disney princess finale and Broadway queen), then you’ll want to check out her latest chat with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra.
What’s the Buzz?
- Lea Salonga teams up with Jon Fox, the SSO’s principal percussionist, for a relaxed interview.
- They spotlights musicians worldwide, bringing a global choir of perspectives.
- All this action is streamed live on SSO’s Facebook page.
When: June 12, 9 p.m.
Don’t just take our word for it—drop in to see if you can hear the clatter of drums and feel the same excitement as those who have earned the singer’s praise.
Why Tune In
If you’re a drama junkie, music nerd, or just need a little wave of positivity, this session is the haul. With the SSO’s pulsating rhythm and Lea’s lyrical energy, you’ll feel like you’re right in the front row, bumping your shoulders to the beats.
Something you can cook
Ramly Burger Recipe
Feeling the pangs of a missing night market? Make this tasty Ramsy-style burger at home and let the cravings fade.
Ingredients (makes 5 burgers)
- 300 g chicken tenders
- 1 yellow onion, peeled
- 1 ½ Tbsp soy sauce
- ½ Tbsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp white pepper
- ½ cup minced garlic (or 3-4 cloves)
- Butter for frying
- 5 burger buns
- 5 beaten eggs
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 lettuce leaf
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Chili/tomato sauce
- 5 cheese slices
- Mayonnaise
- Optional: pepper sauce for that extra zing
Steps
- Mince the chicken tenders in your favorite food processor until fine.
- Peel the onion and mince half of it.
- Mix the minced chicken, onion, soy sauce, paprika, white pepper and garlic in a bowl.
- Heat a skillet, add a knob of butter, shape the mixture into five patties and fry each side until golden brown.
- Toast the buns in the same skillet for a crisp finish.
- Whisk the eggs in a bowl; add a splash to the pan, slide a patty onto the egg, then wrap it up—think of it like a quick “egg-arizing” wrap.
- Layer the patty with cheese, then assemble the burger: place tomato, lettuce, cucumber, a drizzle of chili/tomato sauce, a dash of pepper sauce, and a dollop of mayo.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the nostalgic, crunchy, flavorful crunch.
Happy cooking—your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll feel like you’re at the Shilin Night Market without leaving your kitchen!
