One of the fun things about working in media (and the salary sure ain’t among them), is that no-one ever really questions whether you should be in the room. You flash your card, say you’ll be writing about what’s going on, and a surprising number of doors are flung open. Too often, you grab what free food you can and make your escape before the PR machine gets its claws into you. Occasionally though, the experience makes you grateful for the access you have – and forces you to consider what you’d have to do to live like this more often.

It's official. Tiong Bahru is now the most happening part of town. With 40 Hands having led the charge, Books Actually following suit, and Strangelets opening soon at number 7, Yong Siak Street is fast becoming the des res for all things cool and indie.