My Perfect Weekend with pop singer Matilde Girasole

Who: Matilde Girasole is a 19-year-old pop singer, songwriter and performer from Italy who is now based in Singapore. A full-time artiste, she moved to the Republic with her parents six years ago and earned her high school diploma and extended diploma in music from Stamford American International School here. She has been studying music her whole life, earning certifications and diplomas in voice, piano and music theory.

Her recent accolades include wins at the Musivv Awards in Dubai and the World Entertainment Awards in Hollywood.

She will release her single Heart Of The Jungle on May 16. From June 1 to 9, she will embark on a mini tour in Mexico, which was picked because she admires how the audiences there are open to discovering new artistes from around the world and welcome them with enthusiasm.

“As a pop artiste constantly travelling among countries, my weekends are rarely predictable. 

That is why when I’m home in Singapore, I cherish every moment. The city gives me a sense of safety and clarity. It is where I slow down, breathe and reconnect with who I am beyond the stage.

My weekend begins with a quiet, slow morning with my reset rituals: a scented shower, skincare, herbal tea, pilates and a playlist of mellow songs. It is how I shake off the stress of the week and set the tone for everything else.

If the weather is kind, Saturday is perfect for cycling. I often go with my boyfriend and we ride along the waterfront all the way to Marina Bay Sands. There is something liberating about moving with the wind in your face and the skyline in front of you.

We usually stop at Satay by the Bay afterwards for grilled skewers, friendly crowds and the kind of casual atmosphere that makes time slow down.

I try to include some time in nature every weekend. One of my recent favourites was exploring the new Mandai precinct near the zoo. The way nature and architecture blend there is stunning.

But Singapore weather has a mind of its own, so when the skies turn grey, I head indoors and cook. I love making colourful, healthy dishes for my family and friends. My comfort food is, of course, pasta. I’m Italian, what else could it be? 

And if the sun peeks back out, I love tanning by the pool. I know it is not so common here in Asia, but it is one of my favourite guilty pleasures.

I sometimes throw a spontaneous barbecue outdoors. It is a time with good food, music and people I love. 

Nights are for dressing up and exploring the city. I love rooftop bars and trendy restaurants with a vibe, great views, great music and even better conversation. Sometimes, I will go to a club, but I am not really into wild nights. People expect that from a pop singer, but I actually love getting to bed on time. Self-care always comes first.

About once a month, I take a short trip to discover something new in South-east Asia. My next stop is Vietnam. I live for that thrill of the unknown – it feeds my creativity and keeps me inspired.

But no matter where I go, it is always the weekends like these – simple, vibrant, and full of contrasts – that remind me I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”