Small Laude and Yaya LotLot Shop and Dine in Singapore

There’s no doubt about it: Traveling is fun. But it becomes doubly memorable when shared with someone special. 

In the case of socialite and YouTube sensation Small Laude, few people can pass as a better companion than her Yaya Lotlot, a.k.a. her everyday sidekick. “She’s more than my yaya,” says Small. “I can’t imagine life without her.”

For the second episode of It’s a Small World: Singapore, a partnership between the Metro Channel and the Singapore Tourism Board, the ladies embark on an eventful girls’ day out in Asia’s Garden City. Together, they try out new dining experiences, go on a retail romp, discover hidden gems, and even make their own chocolate bars! All the good stuff.

You can recreate Small and Yaya Lotlot’s city escapade with our guide below. And in case you missed it, you can also check out Small’s action-packed SG adventure with son Timmy here.

Have breakfast at the Singapore Zoo

When traveling abroad, hotel breakfasts are something that many travelers look forward to—Small included. But if you’re looking for an extraordinary experience, a must-try is the breakfast buffet at the Ah Meng Bistro at the Singapore Zoo. Here, you can start your day with sumptuous local and international eats served with a generous side of wildlife. 

The al fresco restaurant and bistro offers a 90-minute buffet complete with animal appearances and fun photo sessions. The wildlife encounter was a big hit with Yaya Lotlot, as it’s her first time to go to the zoo and see wild animals up close. “First time [mo] mag-zoo, Singapore pa!” Small gushed proudly.

The al fresco restaurant and bistro offers a 90-minute buffet complete with animal appearances and fun photo sessions. The wildlife encounter was a big hit with Yaya Lotlot, as it’s her first time to go to the zoo and see wild animals up close. “First time [mo] mag-zoo, Singapore pa!” Small gushed proudly.

After your hearty meal, you can easily burn the calories by touring the rest of the world-class attraction, renowned for its engaging exhibits and conservation efforts.

For more information, visit www.mandai.com.

Go boutique-hopping at the ION Orchard

In the mood for some retail therapy? Make your way to the ION Orchard, known as Singapore’s premier shopping destination.“ Siyempre, you know naman, mag-sho-shopping tayo!” Small excitedly told Yaya Lotlot as they strolled around the glamorous complex. Home to over 300 stores, it’s a true haven for any shopaholic, boasting of amazing fashion outlets—from local designers to international luxury brands.

It’s also home to the ION Sky, an observatory deck 56 levels above Orchard Road. Just below it is 1-Atico, a sky-high dining concept where you can enjoy a relaxing break while basking in the panoramic views of Singapore. 

Know more via www.ionorchard.com

After unexpectedly getting lost in the parking lot of the ION Orchard, our traveling duo stumbled upon a semi-hidden grocery store-slash-café, Surrey Hills Grocer, which can be accessed through the carpark. An Australian destination grocer with four outlets all over Singapore, it prides itself with honest-to-good fine, fresh products, delivered from farm to table. 

Here, Small and Yaya Lotlot also indulged in delicious brunch classics, like the Corned Beef Hash and Truffle Pasta. “Funny that sometimes getting lost can lead to most wonderful discoveries,” said Small, who oohed and aahed over the amazing Australian gourmet goodies.

Visit www.surreyhillsgrocer.sg for more details

Chill at a secret hotspot: Mama Diam

If you’re a traveler who wants to avoid the big crowds, this pick is for you. From the outside, Mama Diam appears to be a simple store—more specifically a traditional “mama shop,” much like the Pinoy sari-sari store. But behind one of its shelves is a secret sliding door that leads to a super cool speakeasy bar.

Mixing vintage elements with modern style, this hip hangout located on Prinsep Street serves an extensive array of drinks and wows with a creative menu that puts a twist to iconic local favorites. Small and Yaya Lotlot got a taste of these firsthand as they noshed on the joint’s bestselling Chilli Crab Soft Shell Crab Bao and Chicken Curry Kueh Pai Tee, paired with their bespoke cocktail called Run Fast, Ride Slow.

Check out their menu and make reservations via www.mamadiamsg.com

Have a sweet ending at Mr. Bucket Chocolaterie

Who can resist a sweet treat to cap off a tiring day? For their last stop, the girls got a much-needed cacao fix at this homegrown chocolate shop, where chocolatey dreams really do come true. A reimagination of Willy Wonka’s famous factory, it offers the finest chocolate treats using responsibly sourced single-estate Asian chocolate. 

From rich hot cocoa and velvety truffles to cacao bars and bonbons that tickle with the most unique flavors (like earl grey and pepper), they have everything to please all kinds of choco obsessives. You can even customize your own chocolate slabs at their Creation Station, which is exactly what Small and Yaya Lotlot did. 

Find out more via www.mrbucket.com.sg

Don’t miss Small’s adventures in the Lion City in It’s A Small World: Singapore, airing on Metro Channel every Sunday beginning Jan. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Metro Channel is available on Sky Cable channel 52 (SD) and channel 174 (HD), Cignal channel 69, and GSAT channel 70. For more details, follow Metro Channel PH on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and check out the previous episodes of It’s A Small World on Metro.Style’s YouTube channel.