This brand-new Singapore hotel is making waves with a lagoon pool and luxe suites

Plus, three other things Explore is loving this week.

METT Singapore.

Updated March 4, 2026, first published February 27, 2026

In this article

Timeless colonial elegance, modern interiors and a convenient location - just a few minutes from the buzzing Orchard Road - meet at METT Singapore, the hottest new five-star property that's just opened in the Asian metropolis. There are 84 abodes on site - from entry-level 35-square-metre Premier Patio Rooms to the sprawling METT Suite with a separate living room, a walk-in robe and a private balcony. There's a lagoon-style pool for families, and a lap pool for adults only, plus a bevy of onsite eateries. Start your day with continental breakfast at Canning Bar and Lounge, dig into Italian classics at L'Amo Bistro del Mare for lunch and head to fine-dining establishment, Art di Daniele Sperindio, for dinner. metthotelsandresorts.com/singapore

Festive fever in Adelaide

After a $55 million facelift, the Adelaide Festival Centre - the Opera House of SA - has reopened, just in time for Adelaide's busy festival season. All three performance venues within the centre - Festival Theatre, Dunstan Playhouse and Space Theatre - have been fitted out with new seats and lighting. The foyer and food and beverage offerings have been zhuzhed up, too, with the brand-new fine-diner Angry Bird the most notable among them. Book a table for chef Alex Katsman's stellar modern Australian fare, even if you're not watching a show. adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au

The cheapest day to fly

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The cheapest day of the week to fly has been revealed - and it's not Tuesday or Wednesday, which were traditionally the days when you were most likely to snag an airline bargain. According to new data from Expedia's 2026 Air Hacks Report, Friday - once one of the most expensive days to fly - is now the ultimate budget-friendly sweet spot. Tuesday, however, is the quietest day to fly, while Friday is the busiest, so keep that in mind if you want to avoid big crowds.

Aussie grande dame turns 200

The country's oldest continuously operating library, the State Library of NSW, is turning 200 this year. Take in the building's exquisite Federation Free Classical facade from Sydney's Macquarie Street, then make your way inside, where a number of events marking the milestone will be held this year - from digital installations to walking tours celebrating its history. sl.nsw.gov.au

Words byAkash Arora

Akash is the Deputy Travel Editor for Australian Community Media. He has lived and worked in four cities around the world – Sydney, London, New Delhi and New York – and, at last count, travelled to 42 countries.

My all-time favourite destination is ... New York. You can drop a pin anywhere in Manhattan and start walking in any direction, and the sights and sounds of the city that never stops will begin to stimulate all your senses in an instant.

Next on my bucket list is … Scandinavia - at the peak of summer, when the sun almost never sets.

My top travel tip is … If you’re flying to Sydney from anywhere in the world, pick a window seat far from the wing on the left-hand-side of the aeroplane. If the weather gods and flight path align, you’ll have the most incredible views of the Sydney Harbour and Opera House.