SingCityGirl

You Should Be Scheduling This Before and After EVERY Long-Haul Flight

August 21, 2025

Anyone who’s flown long-haul knows that post-journey feeling all too well. Whether you’re traveling for work, adventure or a remote island vacay, you often end up stiff and sore. Sometimes, even more tired than when you left – even if you’ve splurged on that upgrade out of economy.

That’s why there’s one thing you should never, ever skip from your travel agenda: pre- and post-flight massages.

Don’t return from your getaway feeling like you need another to recover – take proper care of your body and mind, and make your journey a whole lot smoother. Here’s why you should book one (or both!) for your next long-haul flight:

1. Prevents muscle stiffness and tension

Sitting in one position for hours is a recipe for tight, achy muscles, even if that position involves reclining fully with a glass of Prosecco in hand. A pre-flight massage helps loosen up your body – especially your neck, shoulders and lower back. It improves your posture and makes the flight way more comfortable, so you’re not already feeling sore before you even take off.

2. Boosts blood circulation

Airplanes are notorious for dry air and low humidity, both of which can affect circulation and hydration (which is why we NEVER fly without a sheet mask, right, ladies?). A pre-flight massage helps boost blood flow, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach your muscles and tissues. This can reduce swelling and fatigue, leaving you feeling much fresher during your flight.

3. Reduces stress and anxiety

Long-distance travel can be stressful – navigating confusing airports, dealing with delays, or worrying about jet lag. A relaxing massage beforehand helps calm your mind and lower your stress levels. You’ll board the plane feeling much more zen, ready to take on your journey with a positive, relaxed attitude.

4. Helps you recover after the flight

Once you land, you might feel exhausted, achy, or even like you’re dealing with a little of that dreaded jet lag. A post-flight massage can alleviate any tension left over from the long journey while promoting faster recovery by releasing toxins and re-energizing your body. It’s the perfect way to unwind and ease into your destination, whether you’re diving into meetings or heading straight for vacation mode.

So, next time you’re preparing for a long-haul flight, make sure to treat yourself to a massage both before and after your journey. I’ve got a flight to London this weekend, and my appointments are already booked. It’s a small investment in your comfort and well-being, but one that will make a huge difference to how you feel when you finally land!

You can thank me later.

😉
An Afternoon at ATLAS

June 9, 2025

Indulge in an elegant afternoon tea at ATLAS bar, featuring a stunning tiered stand of savory bites and sweets in a luxurious setting

If you’ve ever wandered through the bustling streets of Bugis, you’ve probably noticed the formidable Parkview Square.

It’s hard to miss – glitzy art deco drama, towering and moody, with the kind of dark glamour that draws you in as you walk past.

But push through those imposing doors and you’ll find ATLAS bar – a place where everyone is “cordially invited” and the gin, champagne, and good times flow freely. (They do, after all, claim one of Asia’s finest collections of spirits.)

ATLAS have struck the perfect balance of 1920’s glam and 21st Century comfort

The Hwang family, who built Parkview Square and dreamed up ATLAS, have struck the perfect balance between old-world romance and modern-day sparkle. It oozes sophistication with a wink, elegance without any of the snobbery.

After deep-diving reviews, menus, and way too many photos online, I picked ATLAS for my mum’s birthday afternoon tea. I was not disappointed.

I booked a Wednesday 3pm slot and was allocated two whole hours, which is generous for gossiping over a catch-up. One of the deciding factors? Their excellent vegetarian menu (not a given in Singapore), plus a gluten-free option. I’d noted our two vegetarian diets when booking, and got a much-appreciated confirmation email a few days later.

On arrival, we were greeted with smiles in the grand lobby, shown to our seats, and handed a complimentary cocktail – a thoughtful touch, especially at the super affordable $68 per person price point.

A delicate mushroom and potato amuse-bouche kicked things off while we chose our tea. I went for the Peach Green Oolong; Mum opted for the Palace Grade Pu’er.

Browsing the tea selection on offer

The tiered tea stand arrived swiftly – a rose gold beauty stacked with both savouries and sweets – and a staff member talked us through the menu, even suggesting the perfect order to tackle it all.

Midweek or not, ATLAS was buzzing. Ladies who lunch, suited-up execs, curious tourists – all soaking in the 1920s splendour. Gold flourishes, plush seats, and that wall of spirits (so tall the bartenders have to fly up on a lift to fetch bottles!)

The only mood-killer? A balcony above us doubling as an influencer photo studio. I’m talking constant flashes, tripod setups, and one guy literally holding his phone light aloft for ten minutes straight. I get it, the place is gorgeous, but for a classy afternoon tea, it veered into “please, my retinas” territory.

Thankfully, the food made up for it. The European-style spread was spot-on:

SAVOURIES: coronation egg on brioche; Provençal aubergine on crystal bread; avocado cream vol-au-vent; tomato basil arancini; burratina with torched tomato; and gazpacho with mascarpone.

According to various expat women’s Facebook groups, scones are a biit of a Singapore afternoon tea battleground – too often stodgy or dry – but ATLAS nailed it. Light, fluffy, served with jam and clotted cream, they were an absolute win.

ATLAS has succeeded where many other venues miss the mark – their scones are divine, with the perfect crumb

SWEETS: canelé de Bordeaux, popcorn cream cone, rhubarb tartlet with cinnamon streusel, rhum baba, pistachio amaretti bonbon, and blueberry choux.

Tea refills came without asking, staff checked in often enough to feel attentive but not intrusive, and by the end, we were indulgently full. Mum was glowing – birthday mission accomplished.

We strolled the Parkview Square grounds afterward, admiring the statues and perfectly manicured gardens, feeling just the right amount of decadent.

So if you’re after an afternoon tea dripping with character and class, and just as generous with flavour as it is with style, then ATLAS should be at the top of your list.

😉