1 BlackBerry Massage, $55 for 30 minutes, from Beauty Emporium

This pressure-point massage, which is carried out with Hungarian organic creams, is a quickie spa treat for time-starved workaholics and is perfect for heading off sore thumbs, locked wrists and finger cramps before that crucial meeting.

2 Tie, $89, from Raoul

Bright red power ties are predictable and cool blue ones may not telegraph enough authority. A regal purple tie is the perfect compromise. The embroidered bee motif on this one by home-grown fashion label Raoul adds further sartorial sting to a straightforward executive look.

3 Tiger Balm Neck & Shoulder Rub Boost, $26.70 for a pack of three, from DFS Galleria

Singaporeans have been warding off assorted aches with zesty ointments from this home-grown brand for decades. This non-greasy balm is meant to provide speedy relief for aching neck and shoulder muscles and might come in handy after a long day of stressful Apec meetings.

4 Browsing at Select Books

Both culture vultures and realpolitik junkies will love this long-standing indie bookstore that specialises in South-east Asian titles. We recommend Writing Singapore: An Historical Anthology Of Singapore Literature ($48); and Architecture Art Identity In Singapore: Is There Life After Tabula Rasa? ($16). Check out the store’s complete selection at www.selectbooks.com.sg.

5 Bespoke menswear, from $130, from Clothesmith

A personal consultation at this funky tailoring service can take as little as 15 minutes. Update your staid executive look with stylish slim-cut shirts and suits jazzed up with details like colourful linings and striking buttons. It usually takes about two weeks for your order to be completed, but overseas delivery is available.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.