Vincenzo La Torre has lived in five countries, but now calls Singapore home. To help us celebrate our new boutique in Singapore, the Deputy Editor of Harper’s Bazaar Singapore tells us where to go and what to see.

Singapore is…
Extremely international. It’s a bit like Europe — a lot of different countries and amazing cultures are just a short flight away. I love the blend of local cultures (Chinese, Malay and Indian).The endless summer and the food are another big plus.

First-time visitors must see… 
Haji Lane in the Arab quarter — a street full of cool cafes, vintage shops and local designers.
 Little India: Try any of the restaurants. 
The Botanic Gardens: A wonderful respite from the heat, especially the National Orchid Garden.

Place to stay…
Feel like you’re in Bali or Phuket at Capella, on Sentosa Island, just a short cab ride from the center of town. The St. Regis is in the thick of the action, near the shopping paradise of Orchard Road.

 And for a long weekend, locals go for a “non-beach” getaway to places like Amanjiwo in Java, Indonesia — just a short flight away.

Great window-shopping and more…
The shops near Club Street and Ann Siang Hill and the bookstores and design boutiques on Yong Siak Street.

Dish to try…
Chilli crab or laksa at any hawker stall. For a modern take on local food, the best restaurant is Wok & Barrel for classics like beef rendang.

Something only locals know…
The art of “marketing,” or shopping for fresh vegetables and fruit at markets like Tiong Bahru — an experience like no other.